The Sun 05.13.2020

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WEDNESDAY, MAY 13, 2020

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SPORTS: Discussing lost season. PAGE 8

East Farmington Board struggles to schedule mine meetings during pandemic BY C.L. SILL EDITOR@OSCEOLASUN.COM

The East Farmington Town board met in person May 4 for their regularly scheduled monthly meeting. Among the topics discussed was an update on ordinance changes relating to the expansion of the North Forty Resources mine, as well as the mining moratorium that currently extends through the end of June. The board recently received a new draft of the ordinance and decided further discussion with their lawyers was needed in order to fully understand the 25-page document. “Right now there’s a lot of questions I have, and a lot of it is legal jargon I guess I don’t understand,” said supervisor Rick McGuiggan. “I’d like to have the lawyer sit down and go through it, then bring it to open hearing or whatever we have to do next.” The board tentatively scheduled a meeting with their lawyers for before the end of May, but did not set a specific date. “We have a draft and we have a subcommittee report,” McGuiggan said. “We just have to get it to mesh all together.” That meeting would legally be open to the public, and the board drew criticism for potentially scheduling a meeting that could draw a large crowd during the current pandemic situation. “You realize there are probably several dozen people would be interested in that meeting,” a concerned resident said. Board treasurer Debbie Swanson was flippantly dismissive of these concerns and implied it’s not the board’s responsibility to ensure people feel safe. “Well, they’re just going to have to figure out a way to be six feet apart,” she said. “We have a right to have a meeting. You can observe if you want but that’s at your own risk.” The board is one of very few local municipalities that has continued to meet in person during the pandemic with no teleconference option. The Centers for Disease Control currently rec-

ommends canceling any gatherings of more than 10 people for areas with minimal-to-moderate community transmission. There were 17 people in attendance Monday night, with some practicing social distancing and a small number of people wearing masks. Some in attendance said they believe concern about the virus will remain prevalent, even after safer-at-home orders are withdrawn. A public hearing on the mine’s expansion is sure to draw a large crowd, and this could keep some concerned residents from attending for fear of their own personal health. “There’s so many people that are concerned about this virus,” said Osceola resident Holly Walsh. “And to have a public hearing and tell people to come at their own risk is really not fair due process.” She continued to say she thinks the virus would keep people from attending well into the summer. “I think it will prohibit people from really participating and showing up until we’re through this pandemic,” she said. “Until the experts actually tell us it’s ok to be out in public and in congregate settings where there is more than ten people.” She said the virus won’t magically stop being a concern when the safer-athome order is lifted, and that the board should be sensitive to that. “Truly if we’re listening to the experts on this, we’re going to be in this for months,” she said. “Not another month but probably six or nine months. People are going to continue to die of this virus. It’s very serious, we don’t have a vaccine yet and until people start waking up to the seriousness of this, more and more people are going to die.” Walsh said she believes a public hearing should be postponed indefinitely. “To have a public hearing in a state where so many people are at risk is ridiculous,” she said. “It’s truly an outrage and the moratorium should be extended until we’re out of the woods.”

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CC.L. L SILL | THE SUN

Businesses in downtown Osceola have chosen to remain closed even after Polk County Sheriff Brent Waak and the Polk County Board of Supervisors spoke out against the statewide safer-at-home order.

Downtown businesses choose to remain closed until Safer-At-Home order lifted BY C.L. SILL EDITOR@OSCEOLASUN.COM

Downtown businesses in Osceola remain closed this week, despite criticism of Gov. Evers’ safer-athome order by county officials. As of Monday, the order is scheduled to extend until May 26, although the Wisconsin Supreme Court heard oral arguments on the topic last week after a suit was brought by the state legislature to try and overturn Evers’ order. Polk County Sheriff Brent Waak spoke out

against the order in late April, saying he believes most businesses in the rural county should be able to reopen. “I believe that most Polk County businesses can safely operate with some protective measures in place,” read a statement released on the department’s official Facebook page. “Such as social distancing and protective equipment for staff/ patrons.” In Addition, the Polk County Board of Supervisors held an emergency meeting May 1,

where they passed a resolution criticizing Gov. Evers’ order and urging him to allow local municipalities to regulate their own health and safety. Yet, even with the backlash against the order, local businesses in Downtown Osceola have chosen to remain closed. “Personally I agree with the sheriff, but we’re not going to disobey the Governor,” said Wayne Erickson, who owns Cascade Bar and Grill in Osceola. “Health Inspectors could conceivably shut

you down if you tried to reopen too as a health code violation. It’s not worth messing with, whether you agree with it or not.” Like many local businesses, Erickson has used the closure as an opportunity to get a few small projects done on the building. They are offering to go food, which is keeping the lights on. “We’re probably 15 or 20 percent of what we would be,” he said. “We’re just trying to stay afloat.” SEE DOWNTOWN, PAGE 3

Sun hires intern for Summer 2020 The Osceola Sun and Country Messenger has hired Dan Johnson of New Richmond, Wisc. as a summer intern. Johnson is just finishing his junior year at Crown College in St. Bonifacius, Minn., where he studies communication and English. Johnson spent the first part of his life in the Twin Cities, before moving to Hammond Wisc. and later to New Richmond. Johnsons’ interest in writing started when he was very young. He began writing his first novel ‘War on the ADVERTISING 715-294-2314 ads@osceolasun.com

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Great Sea’ when he was 8-years-old and self-published it when he was 13. “Ever since I can remember I was super into storytelling,” he said. “Especially writing.” Johnson has published two fantasy novels total, and recently finished a draft for a third. He said long form storytelling is so appealing in part because the work can ebb and flow as you write. “I had a plan in mind, but the story kind of takes on its own form,” he said. “It felt like I was more discovering SUBSCRIPTIONS 715-294-2314 office@osceolasun.com

it than writing it. That sense of discovery is what motivates me.” Johnson brings a good foundation of news-writing knowledge and the natural curiositiy and creativity necessary to become a capable journalist to the Sun and Country Messenger. He hopes to use his experience and education to pursue a career in any form of writing. I would love to be a journalist,” he said. “Especially writing the less prominent stories. I’d love to just do anything in writing.”

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Osceola school board roundup BY C.L. SILL EDITOR@OSCEOLASUN.COM

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THANK YOU for your support and donations! • Bill’s Ace Hardware – Bags • Dick’s Fresh Market – Bags • BP Cascade Osceola – Bags • Burnett Dairy Cooperative Creamery – Cheese • Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery – Cheese Curds • Polaris – Hotspots • MidWestOne Bank – Food Service Balances • Girl Scouts USA MN & WI River Valleys Troop 57944 & Troop 57473 – Cookies • Various donors for masks for staff and volunteers

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The Osceola School board met for a regularly scheduled meeting May 5. Among the topics discussed were the $10 million debt issue, waivers for hours of instruction due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a slight schedule change for future meetings. Beginning June 3 the board will begin committee meetings at 5:00 p.m. and regular meetings will commence at 6:30 p.m. Financing plans for $10 million debt issue The board discussed financing options for the $10 million debt issue approved in the April 7 referendum with Lisa Voisin of Baird Wealth Management. She discussed interest rates, financing plan considerations, debt structuring assumptions and a financing timeline. “When we put the debt payment restructure together we’re looking at 10 years repayment,� she said. “Which is very manageable in your district.� This idea was met with some resistance from board members. Pete Kammerud said when pitching the referendum to residents of Osceola, a 10-year plan was not mentioned.

“I never saw a 10-year payment plan prior to the referendum,� he said. “I would’ve like to have seen it then so I could’ve been honest with people. I never told people it might be 10-years because that isn’t what I heard.� The board will review and approved interest rates at their next meeting on June 3. Hours of instruction waivers The board discussed and approved Department of Public Instruction (DPI) waivers resolution to waive hours of instruction requirements, requirements to complete an Educator Effectiveness Cycle and requirements relating to the Civics Exam from the DPI. “Due to the COVID-19 outbreak, DPI has put together a seamless process for school districts to request these waivers,� Sup. Mark Luebker said. Donations to food service and distance learning The board recognized several local businesses for donations relating to the district’s distance learning efforts as well as their food service delivery. “We wanted to make sure we’re recognizing our local donors for their support,� Luebker said. Some of the organizations recognized were Bill’s Ace Hardware,

Dick’s Fresh Market, BP, Burnett Dairy Cooperative Creamery, Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery, Polaris Industries, MidWestOne Bank and Girls Scouts USA Min and Wisc. River Valleys Troop 579444 & 57473. Distance learning update District administrators each gave an update on their distance learning procedures and plans. Osceola Middle School principal Amanda Meyer said distance learning is going very well for her students and teachers, and that everyone is remaining positive. Participation from students has remained very positive, with 98 percent of students completing their coursework. “Teachers are very busy meeting and communicating with students, and trying to make the best of distance learning,� she said. High School principal Adam Spiegel said his students have not been as successful in completing their work, but that the school is doing their best to help any students who’re struggling. “I definitely wish I could say I was near 98 percent success rate at our high school, we’re no where near that,� he said. “Our staff is working on a plan to get kids caught up here at the end of the trimester.�

MOVIE REVIEW

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Osceola School District

Phone and Internet Discounts Available to CenturyLink Customers The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin designated CenturyLink as an Eligible Telecommunications Carrier within its service area for universal service purposes. CenturyLink’s basic local service rates for residential voice lines are $22.50-$26.00 per month and business services are $30.00$40.00 per month. Specific rates will be provided upon request. CenturyLink participates in a government benefit program (Lifeline) to make residential telephone or qualifying broadband service more affordable to eligible low-income individuals and families. Eligible customers are those that meet eligibility standards as defined by the FCC and state commissions. Residents who live on federally recognized Tribal Lands may qualify for additional Tribal benefits if they participate in certain additional federal eligibility programs. The Lifeline discount is available for only one telephone or qualifying broadband service per household, which can be on either wireline or wireless service. Broadband speeds must be 20 Mbps download and 3 Mbps upload or faster to qualify. A household is defined for the purposes of the Lifeline program as any individual or group of individuals who live together at the same address and share income and expenses. Lifeline service is not transferable, and only eligible consumers may enroll in the program. Consumers who willfully make false statements in order to obtain a Lifeline discount can be punished by fine or imprisonment and can be barred from the program.

Movie Critic Paul Backstrom

ne of the things I am learning about as an aspiring screen writer is that you need to write about what is going on in your life. Writing this makes your writing so powerful because you are using emotions and situations that are meaningful at this time in your life. As I approach middle age, I have been drawn to movies that feature characters and situations that speak to where I am at this particular point

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in my life. Who would have known that Bad Boys For Life would have actually given me a couple of minutes of pause and reflection in a franchise that has been more about shoot outs and car crashes? Bad Boys for Life is the continuing story of Marcus (played by Martin Lawrence) and Mike (played by Will Smith) who are cops in Miami. These partners must take on a new threat from crime lord Armando Armas (played by Jacob Scipio) while dealing with changes in their lives. Prior to watching this movie, I viewed Bad Boys II which came out in 2003. Bad Boys II was an entertaining movie, but nothing special. It was your typical blockbuster movie, lots of show with a pretty mediocre story. I was shocked by its depth. Even more stunning, this film actually builds on the previous movies and makes the characters more complex. Most sequels tend to simply just try to do a variation on a previous theme that the other films have explored. I applaud Bad Boys for Life for acknowledging that character growth. Peter Craig and Joe Carnahan were the right picks to pen this movie because they’re both experienced with writing for leads who are facing middle age and all the issues that come along with it. The story isn’t perfect, in that they dip into some soap opera type writing, but it actually allows us to see character growth and makes the characters face some interesting and poignant choices. There were several brief moments that I felt like I really identified with these two and their struggles. If you liked Smith and Lawrence as a duo before, you will feel at home. The chemistry between the two of them hasn’t missed a beat since their last movie. These are not Oscar performances but they will make you laugh and care about the characters. SEE REVIEW, PAGE 14

TIM ADAMS will be moving on to the Dick’s Fresh Market in Amery as the Store Director. BRANDON KOEHLER is the New Store Director at Dick’s Fresh Market in Osceola. “I would like to thank all the great customers of Dick’s Fresh Market Osceola for 11 great years as the Store Director. Brandon and Staff is ready to take care of our Amazing Customers!“ Tim Adams

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Walkin’ and readin’

& Following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control, all gatherings of 10 or more are being curtailed. If there is an event you were attending, please call to see if it is occurring. The Out & About page will return when this restriction is lifted, hopefully soon.

ARNELL MEMORIAL HUMANE SOCIETY Adoption by Appointment with social distancing is an experience. Our first adoptions since the pandemic took hold, happened last week. Three pups went home in quick succession. A Stray Red and White Coonhound we named Darcey, was the first to find her forever home. She was a stray from the Village of Frederic. Attempts to find her previous owner were not successful and so her reincarnation to an adoptable spayed pup was underway quickly. After one day on our adoptable pet page, Darcey had multiple inquiries. A young family had been looking for a Hound mix and Darcey was just the ticket. They made an appointment to meet her the next day and it was love at first sight. Darcey was playful and respectful with their three kids, offering kisses and gentle attention. The family has reported that Darcey is doing well in her new home, enjoying time in the yard (and 40 acres) with them and finding her place. We are happy for her. A six year old long hair Terrier mix named Keith was a popular dog with an abundance of inquiries. A couple from Duluth kept their appointment to meet Keith but decided that his mother, Dezi, a nine year old Jack Russell Terrier mix, was a better fit for them. They will be spending time together in Duluth and at the cabin in Gordon. And that suits Dezi just fine. She loves having all the attention to herself, hopped right into the car and away they went. And then there was one. Keith met his new family on Saturday. They came from Eau Claire with two small dogs to meet Keith. Casey was a 15 year old Bichon mix and Rocky, a nine year old chunky Chihuahua. While practicing social distancing for us humans, the three pups were free to mingle and play together in our outdoor exercise pen. Keith wanted to play and Rocky thought that was an interesting idea. Not one to expend too much energy, Rocky stood in one spot and watched Keith run in circles around him. You could tell that the overweight Rocky wanted to play but he just couldn’t move that fast. It was decided that Keith would be a great motivating factor in Rocky’s weight reduction plan. Keith’s new parents explained that they didn’t have children because their dogs were allergic to them. Though they were working from home, the dogs would go to a Doggie Day Care for exercise and socialization. And so with a happy introduction, lap cuddling and adoption finalized, the three dogs all went home in matching sweaters. Keith felt like one of the family and a lucky dog he is. Open by Appointment and Adoption by Appointment with Social Distancing is the “New Normal” at Arnell Humane Society. Contact the shelter by phone, email or Facebook. We will return your call/message as soon as we can. Arnell will be able to post photos of Lost Pets, answer questions about a Stray you have found or make appointments for adoptions and delivery of an animal. It isn’t a perfect system and we appreciate your patience as we learn to offer animal shelter care and adoption using new guidelines and restrictions for our safety. Arnell will continue to be there for the animals that need our help, with your help. Arnell Memorial Humane Society, 715 268-7387 (PETS), online: ARNELLHUMANE.ORG and Facebook.

BY APRIL ZIEMER EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

Some things just go together. A needle and thread, peanut butter and jelly and hugs and kisses. The Wilberg Memorial Public Library of Osceola has made it possible to add walking and reading to that list through a new project located on the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail (SSLST). Cards have been placed along the SSLST for walkers so trail enthusiasts can read a story while they exercise and enjoy the outdoors. Rebekah Palmer, Osceola library Youth Services librarian, saw a storywalk done at Wargo Nature Center in Lino Lakes, Minnesota and thought that would be a great thing to do in in this area. It seemed like a fun way to combine the outdoors and literacy in this time of social distancing. Anne Miller, Osceola library Circulation Manager, is on the board of the Friends of the SSLST. She dis-

cussed the possibility of the Stower Trail hosting a storywalk with the rest of the SSLST board and they agreed. Palmer and Miller first put the Storywalk out Friday, April 29, starting at the Nye trail parking area. Next, it was moved to the Wanderoos segment of the trail May 2, and finally into Amery on May 6 where it remained through the weekend. “We have received great feedback from surrounding communities and will gladly continue this service to support social distancing and spending time outdoors,” said Shelby Friendshuh, Library Director. Two more books are currently being made into Storywalks, which will be set up in various locations on the SSLST over the next two months. Watch the Wilberg Memorial Public Library of Osceola’s Facebook page for notifications of when and where the storywalk can be found.

DOWNTOWN: Businesses choose to stay closed until order is lifted FROM PAGE 1

Erickson said it’s been confusing to have the county say one thing and the state another, but that he’s going to continue to follow the lead of the Governor. “You just listen to the Governor, they’re the ones who’re in charge of the state,” he said. “That’s how I look at it. We don’t want to risk losing our licenses or anything like that.” Across the street at The Looking Glass antique store, owner Gwen Wright said she’s also waiting for word from the Governor. “We’re going to continue to remain closed, because there still is a possibility that my license can get pulled,” she said. “So I’m going to go by what the health department has to say.” She also said she wants to remain closed for her own personal health. She doesn’t have many other employees to trade shifts with and has to be at the store whenever it’s open, so her expo-

sure is high. “I just want to be cautious,” she said. She’s had to turn several customers away this week who’d assumed The Looking Glass was open due to the Sheriff and the County Board’s statements. “We had people just walk in and I told them they couldn’t be in here,” she said. “And they said ‘no the sheriff said that we can.’” Wright has been holding online sales via Facebook live since the shutdown commenced and has also been selling some to-go ice cream. She’s also hoping to be able to have customers call the shop and schedule times to come once businesses do start to reopen. That would allow for business but also give Wright the ability to regulate how many customers are in the shop at the same time. “I would feel great about that, if we could do private shopping,” she said. “That’s a great way to cater to your customers and it

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Nora Kamm walked the trail and read a story just outside of Amery, May 7.

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would be a great way to start getting back into the swing of things.” Osceola resident Tom Green said the shutdown is necessary and governments need to base their decisions on the facts and do what’s best for everyone collectively. “When I was growing up you made decisions based on the best information possible to you at the time,” he said. “And that sometimes is not an individual event, that’s a decision that’s made for the greater good.” Green is disheartened by the reaction of some, and said a shutdown is a small price to pay for the health of those who’re most vulnerable. “It amazes me that we can continue to question authority, the truth and what’s best for everyone,” he said. “We live in a society where fast food isn’t fast enough. Far be it from us that we should be inconvenienced for a month or two.”

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Saying ‘no’ to normal

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s we begin to come out from lock downs and seek to resume daily activities, I have been listening to varying viewpoints about next steps our society should take. There’s a lot of talk and column inches written about the “new normal.” For the record, I’m not a fan of the term. In my opinion, even in the best of times “normal” is best used to describe a town in Illinois. We have all been through a great deal in the past 60 days. I am in profound awe of the generosity of many people who have provided support wherever they were able. I am also disheartened to see how quickly some can pass judgement on others. The hoarding of supplies makes me sad and angry the same time. (Does that mean Publisher at I’m sangry?) A few thoughts as we reopen: Tom Stangl Now is the time to support local small businesses. Small businesses are the ones who are constantly asked to support every event, club, organization and community initiative. “We’ll get the downtown businesses to make a donation” is a common phrase when groups are brainstorming about something they want to do or figuring out how to pay for something they want to buy. Now is your chance to pay businesses back for their support. Go and shop as if your life depended on it. After treading water for two months, local businesses need your support now, more than ever. If your normal was shopping out of town but you were able to get what you needed locally, consider making those changes permanent. If you have been spending time home with your family and enjoying it (after the arguments and home schooling were sorted out), the only thing stopping you from continuing to spend time is you. When life becomes more hectic (and it will) remember how special this time has been and work to schedule family time first. Gasoline prices and auto insurance rates have fallen during this time. They will go back up when we return to normal. Instead of being upset about the increases, be grateful for the time at home and the still cheaper than March prices. Finally, there’s a lot disparity about how people will feel about being in public. That’s OK, but as a society, we need to accept each other as we are. Want to wear a mask? Don’t want to wear a mask? Either is fine, but respect the choice of others. Staying six feet away from each other should be accepted as well. We all need our personal space. There will be plenty of revisionist history in the coming weeks and months, along with plenty of Monday morning quarterbacking about our elected officials. I can understand this, but I think these comments from Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz last week, talking about reopening the economy frame the awful choices elected officials had to make early on: “This is one of those difficult things that, if we do this right, it’ll appear like we’re wrong because we didn’t overrun the health care system,” he said. “It’s a bit like someone who can’t swim, and you keep them out of the water. Whether you can claim you kept them from drowning might have been a little debatable, but if they had jumped in the deep end, it would have been trouble.” Well said. Be safe out there! As always, I welcome your comments. You can reach me by email at tstangl@theameryfreepress. com, telephone 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.

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A soothing presence

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y mom threw a JCPenney catalogue at me one time. It wasn’t the little pamphlet you got in your junk mail every week, but the massive book they used to send out a couple times a year before internet shopping was a thing. I managed to dodge it and it slammed into the washing machine behind me, like a gong in a symphony orchestra signaling the beginning of Editor the battle royale. C.L. Sill It wasn’t over anything major. She was on the phone and I had been interrupting so she winged the book at me, simple as that. If a parent admitted to doing that to their kid today they’d probably be hauled off in a straight jacket by child services, but at the time it wasn’t even the defining moment of that day, let alone some childhood trauma that’d come up in therapy sessions 20 years later. I scurried outside, completely forgot about it and probably spent the rest of the day pretending I was John Wayne. But, I never interrupted Mom when she was on the phone again.

She would be mortified if she knew I’d told that story. My mom wasn’t abusive or mean, or even cold. She was the kindest and most soothing presence of my childhood, the kind of mom who could cure a fever just by laying the back of her hand on your forehead. If I possessed a sliver of the compassion she has I’d be a far better man than I am. She was a wonderful mother in every way — you just didn’t want to piss her off. I tell the JCPenney story because just as Mom taught us to be kind and decent, she also taught us to be tough. I doubt she did it on purpose, she was just tough to begin with and it resonated in her parenting style. A friend of mine who was in the army said his drill sergeant always used to say, “You play stupid games, you win stupid prizes.” Mom never used that phrase but I like to think she would’ve if she’d known it. That was her general philosophy. There are rules and if you break them there’s consequences. That made me realize from an early age how strong my mom was. She didn’t put up with any crap, from her kids or anyone else. But she could still wipe tears from eyes and sooth a scrapped knee with a little bit of Neosporin, a Flintstones

band aid and a kiss. My brother and I grew up idolizing characters like Indiana Jones and Han Solo (maybe we just loved Harrison Ford I guess). They could take a punch or dish one out, a concept Dan and I tested thoroughly on each other over the years. But we also loved princess Leia, although not in the same way most other young boys did. We loved Leia because she reminded us of Mom. I thought they looked alike and most certainly had the same air of confidence. They both got that look in their eye when they were mad that made you think you should probably just shut up and do what they ask. Leia made me respect strong women, and so did Mom. I’ve tried my best to embrace my Mom’s duality as an adult. I try to be tough enough to always speak my mind but soft enough to know when someone needs help. I generally only succeed in the former, Erin can vouch for that. But I do my best in both regards and hope to someday give my own children the same kind of childhood I had, even if it was intermittently disrupted by a magazine whizzing past my ear. C.L. Sill can be reached at editor@osceolasun.com

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Worrisome trends affecting representative Democracy We’ve seen plenty of evidence lately of the deep polarization in this country. Even in the midst of this crisis, national politicians, the political parties, and their adherents are finding plenty to fight over— even as, for the most part, ordinary Americans have been remarkably united and many governors mayors have Columnist and worked hard to handle the coroLee Hamilton navirus pandemic competently and guided by expert advice. The question as we look ahead is whether the trends we’d been seeing before the pandemic will reassert themselves, or instead there will be some sort of reset. Because those earlier trends are extremely worrisome. For years now, it’s been common for politicians to label their rivals as unpatriotic and illegitimate. The deep freeze in crossaisle relations in Congress had

YEARS AGO

made progress there extremely difficult, though the crisis has given congressional leaders and members of the Trump Administration no choice but to keep bargaining until they hammer out agreements. Other trends are equally problematic. The federal civil service, for instance, has always fielded a lot of very good people—dedicated public servants who try not to be partisan, remain independent in their views, and support the work of whichever administration is in power. They want to make government work better. That has gotten much harder to pull off in recent years, and the result is a civil service that is losing workers, institutional knowledge, and competence. There are still capable civil servants, many of whom have been doing their best to keep federal services on an even keel during this crisis, but it’s hard to escape the feeling that their impact has been diminished. Likewise with the judiciary, which has become more politicized. It’s a worrisome trend in a branch of government that has

generally stood for even-handed justice and, over the long term, strengthened Americans’ civil rights and civil liberties. The President, however, likes to say that his biggest achievement in office has been to put very conservative judges into power, a claim that undermines the judicial branch’s standing as the pillar of independence this country long depended upon. Ideology will always play a role in judicial choices, but making judges more nakedly political is a destructive trend. This extends to the media, as well. For whatever reason, it exercises less rigorous oversight of government, and what does exist is more partisan. While there’s coverage of national issues and politics, the trends have led to less robust local coverage, and a less healthy democracy. As polarization has deepened, Congress has gridlocked, presidential power has expanded (not a new thing, by the way), and the government has become less responsive and less effective. It took a national

that’s what the stylist would say. Eventually, I realized I was spending a lot of money on a pitiful crop of hair. So, I took a deep breath and tried lightening it myself. The results were exactly the same so I kept doing it. Then, one day about a year ago, the package design changed and I bought the wrong color. I realized immediately that I had made a dreadful error and had bleached my hair an alarming platinum blond. “OH NO! What have I done?!� I went to bed wondering if I would try to cover up this disaster or just hide in my house long enough for it to grow out. But a funny thing happened the next morning. I got out of bed, forgetting my fiasco of the previous evening, and saw myself in the morning sunshine. My hair was, as always, standing straight on end. But now it was wackadoodle platinum blond. I liked it. “Wow. Your hair is very blond,� my mother said when she saw it. “I know,� I told her. “It was a mistake.� “I like it,� she told me. That settled it. Wackadoodle blond was my new signature look. So now my hair is newly cut and blond and I am feeling better than Mary and Wolfgang. “I used to cut Wolfgang’s hair,� Mary confessed, “but it’s too hard

now that he’s going bald!� “He just needs to pay you more,� I told Mary. “Why is that?� Wolfgang demanded. “Why do I have to pay more for less hair?� “It’s just like camping gear and lingerie,� I told Wolfgang. “The less there is, the more you pay.� Wolfgang and Mary thought that was funny and probably also thought I knew something about lingerie—I didn’t set them straight. But the truth is, my underwear are an embarrassment and my nightgown has holes in it. My mother gave the nightgown to me years ago for Christmas and it is my favorite. It has reindeer on it and it is quite literally falling to pieces. I decided, with my fancy new haircut, I should bite the bullet and get a new nightgown and went looking online. The only one I found that was anything like it was exactly like it—it had reindeer prancing across the front. I bought it. So, this summer, I’ll be the wackadoodle blonde wearing a festive reindeer nightie. One of the many nice things about getting older is that I’ve had time to learn what really suits me. Till next time, Carrie Carrie Classon’s memoir is called, “Blue Yarn.� Learn more at CarrieClasson.com.

SEE HAMILTON, PAGE 6

THE POSTSCRIPT My signature look We’re at the stage where everyone is complaining about their hair. I am not complaining. As I have frequently bragged, my husband, Peter, cuts my hair and this has continued while the beauty parlors are closed and everyone is growing increasingly cranky. We were talking to our friends, Mary and Wolfgang, about this and Mary was Columnist expressing a bit of envy that I had Carrie Classon gotten a haircut the previous day. I let her think that getting a haircut from Peter was like getting a haircut in a salon although, other than the use of scissors, there is very little similarity. Professional stylists will ask you, “What do you have in mind?� and stand there and pretend to listen before they start cutting hair off. Peter dispenses with this formality. “Snip! Snip! Snip!� Peter is done in no time flat and my hair looks as good as it’s going to get. I also used to go to a hair salon to get my hair “highlighted.� This was code for “bleached blond,� but I always said, “highlighted� because

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30 years ago May 9, 1990

50 years ago May 14, 1970 • Debra L. Anderson, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. George Anderson, has been named Valedictorian and Jill Dehmer, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Beverly Dehmer, has been named Salutatorian for the Class of 1970 at Osceola High School. • Francis Kelly and Edward Fehlen cut the ribbon, opening the way to the 11 a.m. services at the new St. Joseph’s Catholic Church facility. • Bud Grant came out Monday to go ďŹ shing with Walter Gantenbein. • Mr. and Mrs. Theodore Bents and family went to Comstock Sunday where they were guests of Mr. and Mrs. T.C. Bents. • Darcey Quist was among the First Communicants at St. Joseph’s Church on Sunday. Her parents entertained at dinner. • Steve and Rickie Parent spent the weekend with their grandparents Mr. and Mrs. Wm. Murtha, New Richmond.

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20 years ago May 10, 2000 • The four member banks of St. Croix Banco Inc. are changing their names to S&C Bank including the Bank of Somerset in Osceola. • Osceola High School football manager Cale Kirby was recently selected to be the manager for the North squad of the Wisconsin Shrine Bowl for high school football. • The Osceola High School Art Team participated in a regional competition and placed ďŹ rst in critical thinking, second in Quiz Bowl and second place overall. Team members included Arla Dauscher, Amber Stewart, Heidi Anderson, Lindsay Posch, Leah Wynveen, Jayda Multer, Sam Hanson, Nichelle Lasar, David Koehler, Sam Feske and Andrew Werthmann. • Shirley Johnson of Osceola High School was named a Herb Kohl Educational Foundation Teacher Fellows for 2000. • Noah Johnson of Osceola was awarded a $500 Northwest United Educators Scholarship at the NUE banquet on April 12.

• Inducted in the Osceola High School National Honor Society were Debbie Demulling, Brian Getschel, Heather Hardman, Chuck Hawkinson, Sean Jensen, Zach Johns, Shawn Kelly, Karl Ludvigson, Shannon McIntyre, Jodi Monson, Keri Montgomery, Michelle Schmidt, Michelle Schneider, Kelly Tietz and Ron Wyman. • Osceola Middle School “Women in Historyâ€? essay contest winners were James Cook, ďŹ rst; Erin Randall, second; and Sarah Jasken, third. • Specialist Donald W. Raleigh Jr. has been selected as the Distinguished Honor Graduate while attending the Primary Leadership Development Course, Class 90-05, B Company 103rd Military Intelligence Battallion of the U.S. Army. • Debra Morgan and Kevin Berg exchanged vows April 21, 1990, at Peace Lutheran Church in Dresser. • Osceola High School gold medal winners at the State Music Contest in Eau Claire were Scott Lee, Mark Swiontek, Craig Mueller and the Osceola High School Swing Choir.

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10 years ago May 12, 2010 • After 40 years of service in the nation’s House of Representatives, Congressman Dave Obey has announced he will not seek re-election. • Polk County Sheriff Tim Moore announced that he would not seek re-election. • The Indianhead Chorus recently participated in the 10,000 Lakes Division Chorus contest and won ďŹ rst place in the Plateau “Aâ€? division and Most Improved Chorus overall. • Lucas Sletten of Osceola attended the High School Honors Band weekend at Concordia College in Moorhead, Minn. • Osceola High School boys track team placed ďŹ rst in Amery and the girls team ďŹ nished second. Paige Garriga broke a six-year school record in the discus with a toss of 126 feet 7 inches. • The Osceola Braves planned to start their season against Elmwood on May 14.

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P.O. Box 8952 • Madison, WI 53708 (608) 267-2365 or 1-888-534-0028 • Fax (608) 282-3628 Rep.Magnafici@legis.wisconsin.gov

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TO THE EDITOR

POLK COUNTY MASTER GARDENERS

Pancreatic cancer Business We hear about lung, employees breast, colon cancer and other cancers all the should wear time. Donated - donate masks for breast cancer - they

Taking gardening off the ground

should have a cure for breast cancer by now, all these years. I believe we have a cure but our drug administration and government would lose much money if they put the cure out. So what’s pancreatic cancer? It’s a cancer we never hear about. More and more people are getting it every day. What do people look for? Lower back pain, certain food that you can’t digest, belching uncontrollably and stomach pain. Don’t let your doctor tell you it’s gastric, just take an antacid. After 11 weeks I was diagnosed with Stage 4 pancreatic cancer. After $180,000 of chemo treatments and two months off, three months before I got radiation and chemo pills, 28 treatments. Nothing touched the cancer. Treatments just made me sick, three to four days of throwing up and staying in bed. Weeks of pure hell. Don’t eat red meats, dairy products, milk, ice cream or sweets. Cancers feed off these foods. Doctors tell you nothing. Look in to natural cancer cure (chrisbeatcancer.com) and books by Chris Wark. I want people to know about pancreatic cancer. It’s also very painful.

The Polk County Board of Supervisors passed a resolution (in what may have been an illegal meeting) to allow local officials to exercise their discretion regarding business openings against Governor Evers order. Their decision is based in part on the assertion that they believe individuals and businesses are self regulating-and ”will continue to be”-with regard to safety measures to fight Covid19. This assertion does not fit with my observations as I enter the few local businesses that are currently open. In some businesses in Osceola, I see no staff wearing masks or being conscientious about maintaining physical distance. This flagrant disregard for the safety of others is deeply disturbing. In reality these measures are pretty simple. I am disappointed in these Osceola businesses that I have been happy to patronize in the past. Going forward I will seek out businesses that do show respect for the safety of others. Unfortunately they won’t be my usuals in Osceola. Cheryl Beardslee Osceola

Kathy Minnick Amery

Minutes of Osceola

School Board Proceedings The Regular Meeting of the Board of Education for the School District of Osceola was held in the Boardroom on April 22, 2020. The meeting was called to order by Vice President Brooke Kulzer at 6:00 P.M. with roll call taken: Lanette Johnson – yes Pete Kammerud – yes, Kysa Marten-yes, Brian Meyer – yes; Rosanne Anderson-yes; and Brooke Kulzer –yes. Superintendent Mark Luebker, Business Manager Lynette Edwards. Virtually the following Administrators joined the meeting; Director of Instruction Dr. Rebecca Styles, Director of Pupil Services Leah Voelker, Building and Grounds Director Bob Schmidt and Building Principals Adam Spiegel, Scott Newton, Amanda Meyer, Julie Bender and Lindsay Thomas attended the meeting. A Brooke Kulzer/Pete Kammerud motion was made to approve 1. Determine the procedure to Elect Officers 2. Election of School Board Officials 3. CESA 11 Delegate Annual Convention; June 1, 2020 4. WASB Delegate The next scheduled Committee Meeting is Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. in the Boardroom. This meeting will be offered remotely. Please visit our website for updates on how to view/listen. The next regular Board Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. in the Boardroom. This meeting will be offered remotely. Please visit our website for updates on how to view/listen. A Rosanne Anderson/Craig Brunclik motion was made to adjourn. Motion Carried. Pete Kammerud, Clerk WNAXLP

As the years have gone by, my gardening has changed in many ways. I’ve gone from planting all annuals to planting a combination of annuals and perennials. I’ve gone Columnist from having Julie Kuehl wild English gardens to more formal gardens. The other change I have experienced in the last several years is it has become harder to get the knees to cooperate with being down on the ground. This year my other half agreed to build me several raised beds. Not just six or 10 inches off the ground beds, but almost 3 feet off the ground. I thank him and my knees certainly thank him. I have wanted raised beds for my vegetables for several years. There are many reasons besides bad knees that make

raised beds more workable. It is much easier to keep the weeds out of a 3X6 raised bed than rows in the ground. This year my cold season veggies and numerous others veggies will be residing in these raised beds. For those of you who might be thinking this is a great way to go here is how we did ours. After looking at numerous

raised beds on-line and in stores, we decided to build our own. The outside dimensions of the bed are 3’ x 6’ and they are approximately 16” deep. We constructed ours from green treated (the new treated is much safer than in the past). Here is our material list: eight 5/4x6x12 treated deck boards; one 4x4x12

treated; two 2x4x10 treated; eight 2x4 joist hangers and one box of 150 2 ½” coated screws. This enabled us to have a 3’x6’ bed raised almost 3’ off the ground to top of the planter. You will need to cut the 5/4 deck boards so that you have six that are 6’ long and the rest are cut in 3’ lengths. The 4x4s SEE GARDENING, PAGE 7

HAMILTON: Worrisome trends affecting representative Democracy FROM PAGE 5

crisis to lay bare some of these issues, but the trends underlying them have been going on for some time, and fixing them will take time, too. This has to start with ordinary Americans. Voters need to reclaim our democracy and demand that the system that made us a great nation—one that adhered to the checks and balances and sepa-

rate institutional responsibilities laid out in our Constitution—be restored. At the community, state, and federal levels, our job is to maintain the robustness of our institutions of government, agitate to ensure that they are performing as they should, and recognize that if the trends I’ve laid out strengthen their grip, our representative democracy will suffer. The threats may not be existential yet, but they could become so. Because here’s the thing. People

may distrust government, but just as the pandemic has made clear that at bottom there’s no palatable alternative to an effective and competent government system, so it’s also true that the only way ultimately to solve the problems and worrisome trends of government is principally through government action. Which means that in the end, as citizens we have to forcefully step up to our responsibilities and insist that our public officials do so, too.

TOWN OF OSCEOLA IS NOW ACCEPTING BIDS FOR MOWING SERVICES FOR THE FOLLOWING PROPERTIES: • TOWN HALL - 516 E AVE N DRESSER, WI 54009 • DWIGHT LAKE BEACH & SAND LAKE BEACH For specific details, contact Tony Johnson, Public Works, 715-417-4681. To be considered, bids must be sealed and delivered to Town Hall located at 516 East Avenue North, Dresser, WI by 2:45 p.m. on May 7, 2020. Bids will be opened May 7 at 3:00 p.m. awarded at a date and time to be determined.

TOWN OF OSCEOLA

ANNUAL TOWN MEETING MAY 19, 2020 AT 6:30 PM Our meeting will be held in the Garage / Shop and we will be adhering to COVID-19 Social Distancing Requirements. Tammy Wanchena, Town Clerk

PUBLIC NOTICE The Polk County Dept. of Administration is accepting applications to serve on the Board of Adjustment as an alternate. To be eligible, an individual must be an elector of Polk County and reside in one of the following towns: Lorain, Clam Falls, West Sweden, McKinley, Bone Lake, Luck, Laketown, Sterling, Eureka, Georgetown, Johnstown, St. Croix Falls, Balsam Lake, Beaver, Clayton, Farmington, Black Brook, and Clear Lake. To apply, please submit a letter of interest or the Board of Adjustment Candidate Application to: Office of the County Administrator; 100 Polk County Plaza, Suite 220; Balsam Lake, WI 54810; by May 25, 2020. Any questions, contact: Tammy Peterson, Dept. of Administration: (715) 485-9212.

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The School District of Osceola is seeking Requests for Proposals (RFPs) for the following projects: • Interior building LED upgrades • Auditorium LED upgrades • Building tuck pointing • Security Camera upgrades and installation • Polish concrete projects Questions regarding the RFPs please contact: Bob Schmidt, Director Buildings & Grounds 715-294-4603 or schmidtb@osceolak12.org RFPs can be viewed or downloaded from the District web page. The RFPs are due no later than 11:00 a.m. May 15 at the District Office 331 Middle School Drive, Osceola, WI 54020.

MAY 13, 2020

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OBITUARIES

Jarod Michael Larsen

Josefa Wilhelmina Jaremczuk

Elijah James Field

Jerod Michael Larsen of St. Croix Falls died at St. Paul Regions Hospital on May 2, 2020. He was 23. Jerod was born March 1, 1997, at 1 pound 12 ounces, tto Dianna Peterson and L Lance Larsen who live in S St. Croix Falls. Jerod battled daily with tthe struggles of cerebral p palsy and various medical iissues, but his smile shone w with love and his hugs c could be felt to the core of y your being. He was a very ssmart 23 year-old who loved e everyone. He was a whiz on h his computer, which gave h him the freedom to comm municate and accomplish things that he could not do on his own, and he loved loud music and gummy bears! His mom and dad were the light of his life, and he was the light of their lives. He was preceded in death by his dearly loved Gramma Marilyn Larsen. Jerod is survived by his beloved pets Putz and Monkey; his mom, Dianna Peterson; dad, Lance Larsen; Gramma Bev and Grampa PeeWee Green; auntie and uncles Dan (Marlette) Peterson, Jo (Ed) Everson, Pockets (Vicky) Peterson, Barb (Jack) Copp, Dave (Cyndi) Larsen, many cousins and extended family and friends. A celebration of life service will be held at a later date. Jerod passed away from medical complications, not from the co-vid 19 virus. God danced the day Jerod was born, and today Jerod dances with God. R.I.P. Baby.

Josefa Wilhelmina (Dickhut) Jaremczuk died at Divine Rehab and Nursing in St. Croix Falls on May 6, 2020, after a brief illness. Beloved grandmother, m mother and friend, she c came to America from Germ many as a young woman ffull of energy and hope. She met Basil Jaremczuk a and they were married in C Chicago, Ill., in 1960. They llived the American dream w working hard and raising ttwo children, Eugene and C Constanze. Josefa was a kind and gene erous person, always happy a and always ready with a smile and a laugh. She was preceded in death by her husband, Basil and nine siblings. A small service was held at Williamson-White Funeral Home on May 11. Interment took place at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minn. To sign an online guest book and view a video tribute, visit www.williamsonwhite.com. Arrangements were made with the Williamson-White Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Amery.

Elijah James Field of Osceola, died unexpectedly May 5, 2020, at the Fairview Wyoming Hospital. He was 21. Elijah was loved for his o old soul, sense of humor, a and his quick wit. He was k kind, funny, intelligent, sspirited, and warm. Eli alw ways made sure the people a around him were taken c care of. His sarcasm was o often nearly undetectable a and he liked to joke around w with people constantly. He w was learning how to cook h healthy foods and was iinterested in trying new ttechniques and seasonings. Eli loved to play basketball and enjoyed taking walks to handle tough emotions. Eli had a love for music and often used music as an outlet and coping mechanism to handle his troubled soul. Elijah struggled with sobriety and his mental health after losing his brother; losing Isaiah affected their entire family profoundly. Eli recently found sobriety. Unfortunately, addiction is an everyday struggle, and Eli faced much heartache. He could not always overcome his addictive tendencies, though he fought hard for sobriety and peace. Elijah will be dearly missed by a vast array of friends and family. Elijah was preceded in death by his great-grandmother, Sue Cronick; grandmother, Sharon Cronick and brother, Isaiah. Elijah is survived by his parents, Aaron and Hailey Cronick-Field; grandparents, Steve (Debbie) Field, Ralph Tracy; aunts and uncles, Deseray Cronick, Aisha (Ray) Ingberg, and Courtney (Corey) Donovan; cousins, Veronica, Ian and Lenora Ingberg, Jordyn and Ben Donovan; and many other relatives and friends. In the future, there are plans for a Celebration of Life, for all that knew and loved him. Details to follow. Eli’s family would like to thank the community, and their friends and family, for the continuous love and support they’ve received. An update will be provided for people wishing to contribute donations, in remembrance of Elijah. A celebration of life is pending at the time. Arrangements are with the Grandstrand Funeral Home in Osceola. Condolences may be expressed online at www.grandstrandfh.com.

BIRTHS OSCEOLA MEDICAL CENTER Osceola, Wisconsin May 1, 2020: A boy, Asher Michael Johnson, weighing 9 pounds 14.6 ounces, to Ashley and Michael Johnson, St.

Croix Falls. May 6, 2020: A girl, Jade Madison Waddell, weighing 6 pounds 12 ounces, to Calli and Robert Waddell, Lindstrom, Minn.

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GARDENING: Take it off the ground FROM PAGE 6

are cut into four 3’ long lengths. The 2x4s are cut to fit as you assemble. They are used make the frame to stabilize the bed. We used cement pads under each leg to keep level in the garden. Once you have assembled your bed, it is time to fill it with growing medium. I chose bags of top soil (20), cow manure (10) and peat moss. I used roughly 2 bags of top soil to 1 bag of manure and added about a fourth of a bag of peat moss. Mix well and plant. The total cost for bed with soil mixture was about $250. Though this may seem like a lot, next year you only need to top off the bed with a little manure to add some nutrients. Any questions you can contact me at email below. Hope that everyone is surviving this strange time and getting outside to your gardens. I spent the last week cleaning and remulching my gardens and my Master Gardener project bed. Until next time, keep playing in the dirt. Any questions contact me at gardenvarietycolumn@gmail.com

CHURCH LISTINGS Following guidance from the Centers for Disease Control, all gatherings of 10 or more are being curtailed. Please call to see if church services are being held in some capacity. ALLIANCE CHURCH OF THE VALLEY 1259 Hwy. 35 South, St. Croix Falls 715-483-1100 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 110th 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. at Osceola High School Auditorium.

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 715-755-3113 ———————— 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 – OSCEOLA Pastor Mark Barlow 722 Seminole Ave. Osceola 715-417-0752 ———————— 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 2098 70th Avenue Pastor Nile Merseth ———————— 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 Nate Roschen 715-294-2112 • 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: 715-417-0945 ———————— NEW WINE COMMUNITY CHURCH

309 5th Street, Centuria Pastor Scott Petznick (715) 338-8912 ———————— OSCEOLA COMMUNITY CHURCH 2492 Education Drive, Osceola Larry Mederich www.osceolacommunitychurch.org ———————— OSCEOLA MEDICAL CENTER SPIRITUAL CARE 2600 65th Avenue, Osceola https: myomc.org/wellness/ spiritual-care 715-294-2111 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 Pastor Melissa Carmack Find us on Facebook! peace@centurytel.net ———————— 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 ———————— RIVER VALLEY CHRISTIAN CHURCH LIGHTHOUSE 1289 160th Street St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin 715-483-5378 Pastor Jonah Fetzer ———————— 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 Ran Yoo Pastor Kooko Kim ———————— 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 ———————— SHEPHERD OF THE VALLEY LUTHERAN CHURCH MISSOURI SYNOD 140 Madison Street St. Croix Falls Pastor Mark Schoen 715-483-1186 ———————— TRINITY EV. LUTHERAN CHURCH (WELS) 300 Seminole Ave., (Ct H M) Osceola 715-294-2828 • www.trinityosceola.com Pastor David Rosenow (920-645-7526) ———————— TRINITY LUTHERAN CHURCH OF GARFIELD 1578 85th Ave., Amery Pastor Lori Peper 715-268-9577 ———————— WEST IMMANUEL LUTHERAN (ELCA), 447 180th St., Osceola www.westimmanuel.org Interim Pastor Matt Saarem SUNDAY: ———————— WORD OF LIFE FELLOWSHIP Cliff Bjork, (651) 465-7373 366 Bench St., Taylors Falls, Minn. ———————— ZION LUTHERAN CHURCH (Wisconsin Synod) East Farmington Pastor William Brassow (715) 294-3489

These Church listings are sponsored by the following concerned and responsible businesses and industries. They deserve your continued support and patronage! 108 Cascade Osceola www osceolasun com www.osceolasun.com

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AND OUTDOORS THE SUN

MAY 13, 2020 www.osceolasun.com

Four seniors denied ‘swan song’ for Chieftain baseball team BY RON JASPERSON SPORTS WRITER

Last season the Osceola Chieftain baseball team was scrappy. They started the season with very little experience but made up for this shortcoming by playing hard all the time. They made mistakes, like all teams do, but as they picked up experience they were a tough team to contend with. Osceola finished fifth in the Middle Border conference with a 6-8 record (7-10 overall). Osceola kept playing better as the season progressed. The Chieftains earned the 4-seed in the WIAA playoffs and promptly defeated Ashland in the first game of Regionals by a 7-4 score setting up a contest with the top seeded Northwestern Tigers. Osceola built a 5-0 lead after three innings against Northwestern and led 6-1 going into the

bottom of the fifth when the Tigers mounted a comeback. Northwestern tallied six runs in the final two frames to sneak away with a 7-6 verdict ending the Chieftain 2019 season. Osceola was bringing some good momentum into the 2020 season before Covid-19 took care of that by canceling the Wisconsin spring sports season. “We were going to return six of our nine starters,” Osceola coach Kyle Collins said. Carter Lalim, Aaron Schmidt, Josh Mork, Logan Maxon, Josh Schultz and Nick Carlson were starters last season and no doubt would have been the foundation of the team this year. Nick Carlson was second team all-conference last year and Josh Schultz was honorable mention. Experience would have SEE BASEBALL, PAGE 15

JO JASPERSON FILE PHOTOS | THE SUN

Osceola had six of their nine starting players back this season including seniors Logan Maxon (right) and Josh Mork. The Chieftains had high hopes for a top-tier finish in the MBC this year.

Osceola golfers lose potential dream season BY RON JASPERSON SPORTS WRITER

Things were going very well for the Osceola Chieftain golf team. The Chieftains won the big 18hole conference tournament last season on Krooked Kreek golf course in Osceola to wrap up the 2019 regular season. The win helped OHS secure third place in the tough Middle Border conference season closely behind first place New Richmond and second place St. Croix Central. Osceola placed fourth in the Regional tournament and tied for sixth place in Sectional play. Things looked great for 2020 to make a run at the MBC title as the Chieftains had all of their varsity golfers coming back. Osceola had a trio of seniors to lead the way including Nick Kremer, Ryan Leidle and Drew Willeman. Rounding out the varsity were juniors Jacob Hall and Colton Wilmot. The Chieftains were loaded with talent and experience. They only had to translate these attributes to the courses in 2020 to make a big splash. Then the coronavirus and corresponding ‘Stay at Home’ order put an end to the OHS dreams. “I think the OHS golf team would’ve had a great season,” Kremer said. “With some of the many freshmen that were coming out I think we would’ve made great improvements to our

game and as a team. We definitely would’ve gone even farther and been better at the various tournaments and conference meets we would’ve participated in. For the upcoming years I think this team will have some incredible seasons and will do amazing.” “I feel I can speak for the team when I say that we had high hopes but we always try not to set expectations and just do our best,” Leidle said. “We were very hopeful and optimistic for this season, and it’s very unfortunate that it got cut short. But like many things in life you just have to adapt to what happens. I wish the best for the future of the OHS golf program.” Osceola had a total of 23 athletes signed up to compete in the golf program. One of the toughest pills to swallow is that the underclassmen did not get a chance to learn from the talented trio of seniors. Hall was able to make it out to Krooked Kreek when the courses were first opened to the public and gave a quick example of what could have been for the Chieftains this season. On hole #2 he carded a hole-in-one. Hall was using a 6-iron on the 170 yard hole. “I didn’t know for sure that I made it right away because it was sitting up on the foam (used to keep germs from spreading during the pandemic), but when I got up to the

JO JASPERSON FILE PHOTOS | THE SUN

Osceola returned all five varsity golfers from their team who finished third in the MBC and advanced to Sectional play. Varsity members included Nick Kremer and Ryan Leidle.

green I saw it was in and I was super excited,” Hall said. “A lot of great golfers go their whole life without making a holein-one. It’s an amazing feeling that you can’t really describe until you get one yourself.” Losing the season is tough for everyone but Osceola seemed to be on the edge of a breakout season. The athletes on the big Chieftain roster seemed anxious to improve and perhaps move up the MBC ladder. “I believe we would

have been in the top three in the conference again,” Osceola coach Pam Kaiser said. “SCC has a lot of returning guys, just like we did. I know we have the mindset to keep improving and move up in the ranks.” Golf takes talented athletes but it is also a cerebral game. Osceola hits the mark in this area as well with all five of their varsity members from last season being recognized as Academic All-State Qualifiers for

the 2018-2019 school year. Kaiser has a great foundation for continued success for the Osceola golf program. No doubt 2020 would have helped cement the foundation and build excitement for the coming years. Of course the 2020 season won’t happen and Kaiser couldn’t help but feel for every golfer, but especially the seniors. “I don’t know if it can be described,” Kaiser said as she thought about her seniors. “These guys love to golf, they are out

practicing, having fun, enjoying the sport with each other. They have shared great scores, wins, and tough matches with each other. But they will still share their memories and be able to take this sport with them as they move forward with their lives. This is a game in which they can come back together and play again. These three seniors have exciting futures.”

MAY 13, 2020

THE SUN

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Saints lose out on ‘could have been’ season BY RON JASPERSON SPORTS WRITER

Sports are important for many reasons. Some of the obvious ones include helping to develop an athlete’s physical well-being, learn the concepts of teamwork and discipline, and learning how to accept and apply coaching. There are certainly other aspects of sports that are beneficial but yet many times unnoticed. Togetherness is a spinoff of sports and St. Croix Falls has needed togetherness. Last summer the tragic news spread around St. Croix Falls that one of their soon to be seniors, Jordan Braund, was involved in a horrific car accident as Braund was heading back from powerlifting training. After spending much of her summer recovering from the accident Braund returned to school although the effects of her accident would last a lifetime. Then, just as the winter sports season was winding down, more tragic news enveloped the town. McKinley Erickson and Kegan Koshiol were killed in another car accident that put the town completely into mourning. Sports were about to help with the healing process as the St. Croix Falls spring sports were just getting underway. Athletes were getting ready to compete in

track and field, baseball, softball and golf. The kids needed each other as they were beginning to heal from those unthinkable events that had taken place in the last few months. Then the coronavirus caused a world-wide pandemic which has completely turned normal into abnormal. No longer would the athletes get a chance to mourn their losses with each other. “I am sad for all of our athletes, particularly our seniors,” St. Croix Falls girls’ track and field coach Stephanie Belisle said. “But, this sadness runs deeper than the loss of a track season, as this year has been an extremely difficult one in St. Croix Falls. Last summer Jordan’s horrific accident was unthinkable. Yet, her recovery has been nothing short of inspiring. She is an amazing young woman. However, tragedy struck again in late February, and losing McKinley Erickson and Kegan Koshiol in another car accident was beyond devastating. They were two bright, joyful, and talented young men with promising futures. Beginning a track season without them did not feel right, and those first few days of practice were painful. Our coaches and athletes were struggling with our grief, and we were unsure how to take steps forward in navigat-

SHARON WAMPFLER FILE PHOTO | THE SUN

Jenna Driscoll was busy at the conference meet last year placing second in the 200m (pictured), first in the triple jump, fifth in the 400m and was a part of the second place 1600m relay team.

ing this path without two of our team members. At the same time, we were all trying to figure out how to help Jordan become a new kind of track athlete. Little did we know in those first few days just how different things would be. Losing an entire track season has certainly been an immense challenge for all of us. At a time when we most needed one another,

it has been tremendously difficult to be apart. We mourn the loss of the season, but our perspective has certainly changed, as we continue to grieve the loss of these special young men.” The St. Croix Falls girls’ track and field team was gunning for their ninth straight conference championship in 2020 before the season was canceled. Would

Strike three, you’re out!

W

e spotted seven gobblers in the alfalfa field dancing up a storm for the two hens that seemed quite disinterested in their dance moves. John Travolta had something on these Toms with that cool white leisure suit in Saturday Night Fever. The scene did have an impact on my 11 year old wannabe turkey slayer Brady who had a farmer on his tractor drive right between us and hens and Toms that wanted to help the kid succeed. And so ended his youth turkey weekend hunt. Now it’s the real deal as his next season hopefully begins with a bang. I was concerned about not seeing many birds in previous years. Now I am thinking about last year’s birds, namely jakes! Adult son, Josh, saw 5 Wild River a couple days ago, but I’m not spotting them. Brady’s excitement level Trails has increased since hunting a mere 4 hours total on youth weekend to a few Jim Bennett hours a day as we move into the third day of his 7-day hunt. We returned to the farm tractor field (revenge is a meal best served cold) spotting about ten birds in the same pasture. We tried calling but the gobblers and hens could not be persuaded to leave the field where they frolicked and fed on flipped over cow pies, a real

turkey delicacy. We decide to get out in front of them and do an ambush, a favorite move of the MeatEater Netflix show Brady and I like to watch. So we flank the flock and use the low land and trees to hide our move and maneuver into a new location. After setting up we spot a couple other hunters trying to relocate way out in front of the same flock a couple hundred yards away. They never saw us. Now it’s sit and wait in the Savanna oak grove where turkey like to feed on bugs after cow pies. These birds have a dining style a bit more European, like salad after the main course. Now we wait, hoping we made the right move, making a few calls to keep birds interested in visit us for a lead dessert. That’s when Brady had curse number two happen right in our faces. A big Gordon setter romped across the public land that is off limits to dog training this time of year. A hundred yards or so back are a big yellow lab and some dude who has no idea we are there and doesn’t care about wildlife rules and regulations. As the Gordon approaches within chewing distance of our turkey decoys and us, I stand and raise my arms above my head. Joe Blow does the same, obviously unaware of the rules and not caring he messed up this 11 year old’s hunt. Brady finally has a chance after seeing seven SEE BENNETT, PAGE 11

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SHARON WAMPFLER FILE PHOTO | THE SUN

Sidney Hoverman placed second in the shot put and fifth in the discus helping the Saints to their eighth straight Lakeland conference championship last season.

SCF have had enough to make it nine straight? Probably, but we will never know. The Saints had just five seniors on the team including Sidney Hoverman, Jordan Braund, Riley Henk, Azalea Edwards and Jenna Driscoll but they were only replacing Lauren Borst and Anna Klein from last season. It appeared that St. Croix Falls was ready to defend their streak of titles that started in 2012. Joining the five seniors would have been another 21 athletes. All five seniors had earned varsity letters as well as Sierra Braund, Kylie Broten, Jana Carter, Avery Mysicka, Ella Waterworth, Grace Bergstrom, Isabelle Coen, Olivia DuRushia, Greta Erickson, Abby Jensen, Emily McCurdy and Lucia Neuman. “Although we would certainly have our work cut out for us, we were hopeful we could win another conference title this season, which would be our last as a part of the Lakeland Conference, since we will be moving to the Heart of the North next year,” Belisle said. Not being able to see how they stood up against the rest of the conference would have been hard, especially for the five seniors, but they also would lose out on the comradery that sports provide. “Not being able to have a sports season has left many seniors including myself with a lack of closure to our senior year,” Edwards said. “We are missing out on the last time to learn from our coaches, train with our teammates, and compete.” “Having my senior year of track and field not happen I am very disappointed,” Hoverman add-

ed. “I had never thought this is how my senior year of sports would end. I however, am very grateful for the opportunity to have a wonderful three years before this season and I am very thankful for the memories I have created throughout the years.” It is certainly a shame that these five seniors did not get a chance to extend the streak of conference titles but it goes beyond just competing in a sport. “I am sad to miss all of the “lasts” with our seniors, as they have been an enjoyable group of student-athletes throughout their high school careers,” Belisle summarized. “This senior class of young men and women are strong athletes but they are also great leaders and top-notch people. They are a group of fun and witty young people who you just want to be around. I simply miss them all so much. Those words seem inadequate, but are true. This whole track team is a group of “day-makers,” who I have been fortunate to have in my life. As much as I would love to see them all competing on the track, more than anything, I would just like to see them and have more time together. My heart hurts for all of them because of the challenges they have endured. I began this quarantine time feeling sad that we, as coaches, couldn’t be there to offer more support to our kids who needed it but, I’ve learned that we need them just as much as I thought they may have needed us. I have no doubt there would have been records broken, championships won, and many smiles, along with a few tears. I wish it could have been.”

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MAY 13, 2020 www.osceolasun.com

Should pets eat a grain-free diet? When touring pet food aisles at the pet store or the supermarket, pet owners may become overwhelmed by the options at their disposal. Many pet owners choose to replicate their own diets when choosing foods for their pets, and a popular trend is to avoid grain when selecting pet foods. However, selecting the best diet for pets means weighing all the benefits against the possible negatives. Much of the time it comes down to pet owner preference. Why grain-free? Proponents of feeding dogs and cats grain-free diets involves the support of the “natural” diet of these animals, or what their wild counterparts would be eating before dogs were domesticated. According to Dr. Karen Becker, a holistic veterinarian and contributor to Healthy Pets by Mercola, the natural diets of canines contain almost no carbohydrates or grains. The primary sources of carbs would be the grasses, fruits and vegetables found in the stomachs of prey animals. Other proponents of grain-free diets say that, while dogs and cats may have evolved from wild animals to domesticated pets, their digestive

systems have remained relatively unchanged. Dogs in particular have little natural digestive support to metabolize complex carbohydrates and grains. Grains and other carbohydrate sources may lead to excessive gas, loose stools, skin irritations, blood sugar fluctuations, insulin resistance, and other health problems. Are grains OK? The other side of the argument is equally compelling. Vet-supported resource PetMD says that most pets do not need grain-free diets. Dogs possess

several genes that have been modified through evolution to allow them to easily digest carbohydrates, according to the research “The genomic signature of dog domestication reveals adaptation to a starch-rich diet,” by Erik Axelsson. Another reason to avoid grain — food allergies — may not be so simple, either. When dogs and foods were assessed for allergic reactions in a review of 278 cases, beef and dairy were the most common allergens found as culprits, and not the grains. Corn, which is

What is behind cat scratching? When frisky kitties shred new sofas, the cats probably did not do it out of spite or even aggression. Cats do not claw at things because they are inherently bad pets. Rather, the urge to scratch is buried within their DNA. According to the pet adoption and animal welfare resource the Animal Care Centers of New York City, scratching is a normal part of cat behavior. Scratching is a good form of exercise for cats, enabling cats to stretch out their limbs and paws. Scratching also serves the purpose of removing the outer nail sheaths so they can be shed and the nails can be naturally maintained. VetStreet.com says that cats also scratch to leave visual and olfactory markers to other animals. Glands that are located between the pads of the paws leave odors behind wherever the cat has scratched. Other cats know to investigate or avoid the area thanks to the scent and visual hint. Unfortunately for cat owners, scratching can be problematic when the healthy behavior is not focused on objects that should be scratched. When furniture, walls, bedding, or more are targeted by cats, the damage can be irreparable. Presenting alternatives that are fun can focus cats’ attention on scratching elsewhere. Experiment with store-bought or homemade scratching posts. The back of a carpet square, some corrugated cardboard or a rope-covered post may suffice, offers The Humane Society of the United States. Scratching where it is not desired can also be dissuaded by placing an appropriate scratching post next to the off-limits item. Use food treats as rewards when the cat scratches responsibly. Place double-sided tape or aluminum foil on items that shouldn’t be scratched, as those textures often keep cats away. If redirecting the scratching does not work, cat owners can seek the help of a veterinarian for more advice.

one of the most common carbs found in dog food, was rarely the allergen offender, only showing up in seven cases. Kibble that contains grains can be less expensive than other types of pet food, making it a more affordable option for pet owners. Feeding pets grains or choosing a grain-free diet is largely up to the pet owner as long as the dog or cat does not have a specific allergy to grain or gluten. Pet owners can work closely with their veterinarians to select diets that are the best fit for their pets.

6 signs your pet has fleas Fleas are something no pet parent wants to encounter, but they’re all too common among companion animals. Unfortunately, once fleas are in the house, they can affect everyone in the household — including people. The following six signs of flea infestations are not always apparent, especially when they

aren’t in abundance, but they are something pet owners can watch out for. 1. Scratching, licking and biting: Fleas set up residence in hardto-reach places, says PetMD. The head, neck and tail of a pet are common areas where flea infestations occur. An animal that is consistently picking at these areas

may have fleas. 2. Restlessness: Fleas are uncomfortable and can upset pets. If your dog or cat is acting out of sorts, fleas could be to blame. 3. The presence of “flea dirt”: Black deposits within the fur near the skin are often flea droppings. If you’re unsure, drop a little into water

and see if they turn it reddish-brown. If so, this indicates fleas. 4. Raised bumps or welts: Fleas can irritate the skin, causing raised welts on pets and people. People are often affected near the ankles when fleas jump from the carpet onto human skin. 5. Fur loss: A flea infestation causes constant

scratching and biting, which may eventually contribute to the loss of fur. 6. Pale gums: Pale gums are a sign of anemia and indicate that a pet has a severe flea infestation. The dog or cat simply cannot reproduce red blood cells as fast as they’re drained by voracious fleas.

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Sometimes it’s possible to see fleas in action, but they tend to jump and scurry so fast that they can be hard to detect. Pet owners who suspect their pets are dealing with fleas infestations should consult a vet. He or she will likely recommend a flea shampoo and preventative treatments to stop future outbreaks.

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MAY 13, 2020

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BENNETT: Strike three, you’re out! FROM PAGE 9

gobblers out in a field We know the hens will go after bugs in the alfalfa. Two big gobblers answer us and come to look one at a time. The first bird gobbles to us before he is on his way south and gone. Another big gobbler comes in but hangs up gobbling just out of gun range. These wise old gobblers refuse to get shot. But this calling has brought more birds in from

behind us. They make such a raucous that I make Brady relocate in the fence line and face the other direction, keeping an eye peeled for the talkative turkeys. I imitate their calls to get them to come in. It usually works. Two jakes come walking along the fence line 10 steps away. The problem is that Brady is peering into the woods intensely and refuses to believe me when I whisper that two jakes are trying to get into our

fence line blind with us. Before he believes me, Jake 1 and 2 realize their peril, do a quick about face and wander off. That would be strike 3 on the kid. His run of bad luck has to change now! Jim Bennett is an outdoorsman who lives and worked in the St. Croix River Valley and can be reached at jamesbennett24@gmail. com

HOROSCOPES

ARIES – Mar 21/Apr 20 You’ll have a lot of energy and inspiration this week, Aries. Feel free to do anything you put your mind to, especially some recreational activities. TAURUS – Apr 21/May 21 Taurus, you may be feeling especially affectionate this week. With an open heart, you could be ready to delve into a new layer of your relationship or find a new romance. GEMINI – May 22/Jun 21 People may be wise to give you a wide berth for the time being, Gemini. Your dander is up, and it may be a good time to look for ways to reduce stress. CANCER – Jun 22/Jul 22 Cancer, it is very possible that you will meet someone new this week who has the potential to become a lifelong friend.

CLUES ACROSS 1. Seed part 7. Productive 13. Popular cocktail 14. Sausages 16. Western state 17. Natural desires 19. Defunct British automaker 20. Early media tycoon 22. Move from one place to another 23. Letter of Semitic abjads 25. Female birds 26. Umbrella brand 28. Delinquent 29. Tax collector 30. Cooking tool 31. Female sibling 33. Flat-topped hat 34. Angolan currency 36. Boardwalk candy 38. European nation 40. Leaflike part of palm 41. Removed with solvent 43. Uttered words 44. Unfashionable person 45. Disappointed 47. Controversial device in soccer 48. 007’s creator 51. Pain 53. UCLA mascot 55. Razorbill 56. Turkic people 58. Mimic 59. Crime involving fire 60. And, Latin 61. A saponaceous quality 64. Dorm employee 65. Estate lands 67. States 69. They slow you down 70. Gets up CLUES DOWN 1. One or the other 2. Doc 3. Songs have them

Be observant of every new face and name in your circle. LEO – Jul 23/Aug 23 A volatile situation could reach its breaking point soon enough, Leo. Arguments that have slowly been brewing will culminate. Fortunately, things will quiet down afterward. VIRGO – Aug 24/Sept 22 Virgo, even though you are tempted to go in many different directions over the next few days, you’ll need to pick a course and stick with it if you are to get anything done. LIBRA – Sept 23/Oct 23 Libra, this week you may find yourself taking center stage at a family gathering or with a group of friends. Use this opportunity to make your voice heard. SCORPIO – Oct 24/Nov 22 Be careful that your actions

4. Record of payment (abbr.) 5. Speak endlessly 6. American state 7. Digressions 8. Tell on 9. Brews 10. Belongs to the bottom layer 11. American cigarette brand 12. Legal voting age in US 13. Dish 15. Expelled air from the nose

are not taken the wrong way, Scorpio. Do not take on traits that you would otherwise disagree with. Lighten up and be joyful this week. SAGITTARIUS – Nov 23/Dec 21 Sagittarius, take a breather whenever you can because there is a whirlwind of activity soon to come your way. Enjoy any breaks that come your way in the days ahead. CAPRICORN – Dec 22/Jan 20 Your willpower may be weak lately, Capricorn, and you may be eating or doing things that you’ll regret later on. Ask a friend to guide you away from temptations. AQUARIUS – Jan 21/Feb 18 Aquarius, someone may offer you a promotion or another more influential position. Do not let this go to your head, but enjoy the success that has

18. Body art 21. Fierce, destructive act 24. Bear bright yellow flowers 26. Japanese delicacy 27. Get off your feet 30. Male organs in some invertebrates 32. __, so good 35. Cleverness 37. Protest yacht 38. Anesthetized 39. Mollified 42. Touch lightly 43. Diego, Francisco, Anselmo

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come your way. PISCES – Feb 19/Mar 20 Pisces, if you have noticed you are running into obstacles in your quest to meet your goals, you may want to step back and consider a new path. FAMOUS BIRTHDAYS MAY 10 Mat Franco, Magician (32) MAY 11 Sabrina Carpenter, Actress (21) MAY 12 Rami Malek, Actor (39) MAY 13 Robert Pattinson, Actor (34) MAY 14 Mark Zuckerberg, Entrepreneur (36) MAY 15 Andy Murray, Athlete (33) MAY 16 Janet Jackson, Singer (54)

46. Some windows have them 47. National capital 49. Squirrels like them 50. Grandmothers 52. Painter’s tool 54. News organization 55. __ and thesis: musical term 57. Famed activist Parks 59. __ Spumante (Italian wine) 62. A number or amount not specified 63. Body part 66. Of I 68. Old English

COVID-19 Lockdown Chronicles Volume 3: The Refrigerator—the Final Frontier

T

o boldly go where no one has gone before. I loved watching Star Trek in my late teens and early twenties. It was a nightly routine for a few years. Lately, I feel like Jean Luc Picard. I preferred the newer crew of The Next Generation on Star Trek to Captain Kirk and Spock version. It was modern and sort of realistic. Plus, Picard was a confident French guy—what’s there not to like? Captain Picard wanted his crew to follow his orders and fearlessly go to new places. I have been asking my family to do the same. With COVID, I am shopping much less and trying to use what I have on hand. In the process I have been creating some fantastic new meals Wild Chow I will be making long after the lockdown ends. Lisa Erickson My family was a little worried when I told them I was making Italian Rice Bowls. They were like, what? Rice? What about pasta? Italians eat rice, I said, and so can you. Now they are asking me to make it again. I really like meatballs, rice, broccoli, basil, and Parmesan cheese. I never thought I could come up with a way for them to all work in the same bowl. Feel free to change the veggies or cheese. Use what you have on hand. Make it work—conquer the final frontier—your refrigerator. Be bold. Italian Rice Bowls Serves 4 4 cups hot white rice (Italians are known for their black rice; use it if you can find it) 1-pound ground turkey or chicken 2 slices day-old or stale bread, torn into pieces ½ cup granulated Parmesan cheese 1/3 cup whole milk 1 clove garlic, minced 1 tsp onion powder Black pepper to taste 5 Tbsp. butter, divided 1 onion, sliced thin 2 cups broccoli florets 1 6 oz. jar pesto ½ cup fresh grated Parmesan cheese ½ cup fresh chopped basil Preheat oven to 400º. In a large bowl, combine the meat, bread, granulated Parmesan, milk, garlic, onion powder, and pepper. Mix until bread and cheese are incorporated. Form meat into 12 1-2” balls and place on a rimmed baking sheet. Bake for 20-25 minutes until cooked through and golden brown on top. Meatballs will be soft but set. While the meatballs are cooking, prepare the veggies. In a large fry pan, melt 1 Tbsp of the butter over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until slightly tender. Add broccoli and cook until broccoli is tender; about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and keep warm. Melt remaining butter in the empty pan, then add the pesto over low heat. Swirl together. Remove from heat. Divide rice among bowls. Place 3 meatballs on the side of each bowl. Add the warm veggies and drizzle with the butter/pesto mixture. Sprinkle each bowl with the grated Parmesan cheese and chopped basil. Serve immediately. Lisa Erickson is a food columnist who loves adventure and food. You can find more recipes at www. wild-chow.com or email her at wildchowrecipes@ gmail.com.

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Powering Our Community During COVID-19 As our nation responds to COVID-19, we know the most important thing we can do to help, is to keep your power on. Co-op lobbies are closed to keep employees and the community safe, but our drive-thru, phone lines and website are open. We are here for you. #PowerOn

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POLK COUNTY MARRIAGE LICENSES Steven Michael Loyas and Maria Susan Langenback of Milltown are to be married May 19, 2020. Seth Josiah Richey of Bone Lake and Anastasia Fe Adams of Luck are to be married May 12, 2020. Andrew Clem Swanson of Lorain and Jessica Lynn Mattson of Laketown are to be married May 23, 2020.

REVIEW: Bad Boys for Life starring Will Smith and Martin Lawrence worked story-wise has to do with the writers Peter Craig and Joe Carnahan who have written other screen plays like The Grey, Death Wish, and Blood Father which feature their leads who are dealing with their mortality due to the work they do and their age. There was surprising depth to the characters which I haven’t seen over the previous films. Martin Lawrence and Will

FROM PAGE 2

Overall, I would give this movie a B (A Good Movie). To be honest, I wasn’t expecting that much from this movie, because I thought it would be a mindless yet enjoyable action movie like its predecessors. I was shocked to see that movie had good set pieces for action but it also has a decent story. The reason that this film

Smith reprise their roles from the previous films and it feels like it hasn’t been seventeen years since the last movie came out. They don’t miss a beat and are just as good of a duo as they have been in the previous movies. I will admit the film can feel a little too much like a daytime soap opera. However, if you like cop movies, or enjoyed the previous Bad Boys films, I would check this one out.

Bad Boys for Life is rated R for strong bloody violence, language throughout, sexual references, and brief drug use. The film was directed by Adil El Arbi and Bilall Fallah while the writers were Peter Craig and John Carnahan. Bad Boys for Life stars Will Smith, Martin Lawrence, and Vanessa Hudgens.

I’d like a robot that bakes desserts!

I’d like a robot that looks like me!

Newspaper Fun! www.readingclubfun.com

Annimills LLC © 2020 V16-19

Ready for Robots? ts?

!

Phew

I’m bored, and tired of doing the same chores over and over. I want a...Robot...so I can tell it what to do!

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I was Are you ready for compute built by robots robots? A lot of the r in a factory. robots we see on TV or in movies are 8 played by human actors. Remember ry C-3PO and R2-D2 indust from the movie I’m not Star Wars? Many Fill in this puzzle to show how much cleaning are computer generated you know about robots: Chitter’s robots. But, more and room! 1. working, moving or acting by itself more “real” robots – that 2. machine that automatically does a job can help humans directly – 3. set of directions put into the computer are being built to tell the robot what to do and put to use. 4. business, work that produces things we use, such as cars and bicycles Have you heard about 5. field of work designing, building robots NASA’s Mars Exploration Program? 6. the “brain” of the robot Robots, like this one, are sent to 7. able to move from place to place Mars. They help scientists study 8. fun stories that show how a real or the planet by sending photos and imagined scientific thing such as a data from Mars to Earth. robot might change our way of life

The kind of robot I really want is only found in science fiction stories and movies. Most robots that exist today are used in industry to make cars or other items. Some are used to paint or pack items. Robots in movies often look like humans, while real-life factory robots usually have only one big arm to do the work they are built to do. Robots have computers for “brains.” People can program them with a set of directions to “teach” them a job. If something goes wrong, robots can’t teach themselves how to fix it – yet!

Can You Figure it Out?

Check out my robot! Can you fill in the number where he has: 1. cameras for eyes 2. feet for moving from place to place 3. computer “brain” area; panel for repairs 4. bendable, flexible arms to reach and stretch 5. microphones for ears to pick up sound 6. a loudspeaker for “talking”

Is There A Robot in Your House?

B. colorful robots that you can build and program yourself

3. Asimo (Honda)

C. medical robot in “San Fransokyo” who wears a suit of armor to save the day

4. Chip (by WowWee)

D. car-sized robot that helps NASA explore space and complete its science missions E. robots from the planet Cybertron that can take the shape of cars or airplanes

6. Transformers

F. real-life walking and talking robot, can climb stairs or serve you drinks

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Here are some favorite and famous robots from cartoons, toys and real life! Can you match each one to its definition?

A simple “robot” is an automatic machine that will complete an easy task, such as a microwave oven and dishwasher. Follow the color key to see a smart “robot” that people use to vacuum: D D D D D K K K D K K D D K W D D D W K K B B B D D G D B B GG K D B LG LG K D B G G D LG B LG G Y K LG Y LG B B B K Y Y Y Y Y LG LG BG G K G B B Y Y K B LG Y Y Y Y G K Y Y Y K B L G LG Y G B K G G G K G LG K B LG G B L G G K W LG K K B B B G G

Beep!...Identify These Robots

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SEE ANSWERS, PAGE 16

MAY 13, 2020

THE SUN

15

www.osceolasun.com

BASEBALL: Four Osceola High School seniors denied ‘swan song’ for Chieftain baseball team FROM PAGE 8

perience would have been a strength for the 2020 Chieftains led by seniors Schultz, Schmidt, Maxon and Mork. OHS would be replacing departed seniors from 2019 including Matt Schultz, Matt Rutledge and Logan Clark. Osceola had 31 players on the 2020 roster of which almost half were freshmen. Unfortunately these freshmen will not get a chance to learn from the 2020 senior class. “I thought that we would be pretty tough in conference this year, returning six out of nine starters and bringing back (pitching) arms like Nick Carlson, Logan Maxon and Carter Lalim,” Collins said. “I thought we had a chance to be near the top. There was also going to be a number of quality sophomores that were going to contribute to the varsity team this year as well.” “I had very high hopes for us going into this season,” Josh Schultz added. “We had a very solid Legion summer ball season that led us to a State tournament appearance in July, and I firmly believed we could’ve made another run similar to last summer.” Wins and losses will never be a part of the 2020 non-season when fans eventually look back into the record books. There will be no batting averages, earned run

averages, errors or game winning hits. Those facts are obvious but just not getting a chance to play the game that they love is the toughest part to deal with. “The feeling of losing this season and missing an opportunity to watch these seniors play is crushing,” Collins said. “This is a good group. They are multi-sport athletes that know how to compete and bring energy to the field when they play. All four seniors only got the chance to play one year of varsity baseball and I truly believe that this would have been their best season yet. Baseball and spring sports in general are closure to their high school careers. After graduation they only have sports to keep them a part of this school and be around their teammates. It’s a special thing. I feel so

Minutes of Osceola

School Board Proceedings The Regular Meeting of the Board of Education for the School District of Osceola was held in the Boardroom on April 22, 2020. The meeting was called to order by President Craig Brunclik at 6:00 P.M. with roll call taken: Pete Kammerud – yes; Craig Brunclik –yes, Brian Meyer – yes; Rosanne Anderson-yes; and Brooke Kulzer –yes. Superintendent Mark Luebker, Business Manager Lynette Edwards. Virtually the following Administrators joined the meeting; Director of Instruction Dr. Rebecca Styles, Director of Pupil Services Leah Voelker, Building and Grounds Director Bob Schmidt and Building Principals Adam Spiegel, Scott Newton, Amanda Meyer, Julie Bender and Lindsay Thomas attended the meeting. Mark Luebker and the Administration thanked both Craig Brunclik and Rosanne Anderson for their 18+ years as School Board Members. Cards and gifts were given. Craig Brunclik stated it has been an honor and privilege to be a school board member. After graduating from Osceola High School and living in the community, this was his way to give back. A Brooke Kulzer/Pete Kammerud motion was made to approve the consent without the request to pull any items out for discussion. Motion Carried. Adopt the agenda Approved minutes of the Regular Meeting held on April 8, 2020 Policy Second Reading: 0142.5, 0164.2,1213, 1662, 2210, 2260.01, 2261, 2261.01, 2271.01, 3213, 3230; 3340, 3430, 4213, 4230, 5113, 5200, 5517, 6605, 7440.01, 9130 Hires, Resignations, and Recognitions. Resignation: Leah Voelker, Director of Pupil Services Recognition(s): Hire (s): Anja Lake, 3rd Grade Teacher (20-21), Ryan Wood, Business & Marketing Teacher (20-21) Motion Carried. Mark Luebker discussed several policies. The following policies will come back for a second reading at the May 6, 2020

horrible that I can’t give them this closure this year and that they will just finish without the experience of playing their last year of baseball with their buddies. For some, they will never play baseball again.” It no doubt was tough for the juniors on the roster as a few had their varsity debut’s last season and more were waiting in the wings. There were several sophomores ready to move up to the varsity level with the others in the class ready to hone their skills on the junior varsity team. The big freshman class will in a way be freshmen again next season after missing out of the 2020 schedule. As hard as it will be for the entire team it hurts the seniors the most. “What I miss most, or am going to miss most about being a part of Osceola baseball is never

ending,” Maxon began in thinking about the lost season. “I think the thing I will miss the most is just being a part of such a strong baseball club and knowing the fact that I don’t get to walk out onto that diamond for Osceola ever again, which hurts a lot. I’m also going to miss the brotherhood and the laughs that I have, or was going to have, with all the guys out there on the field or in the dugout. It’s always a good time when you’re having a blast with the guys on your side. Last but not least, (I will miss) the coaches and everyone else that helped us as a team. It was very fun to be a part of because it’s just something you never get twice in life and to know I won’t get to experience the laughs and the yells and the experience with those coaches again really stinks. Especially

seeing LB (coach Larry Benitz) show us his love for not only the game and the field, but showing how much his dog means to him is something I will miss seeing every day. I’m going to miss

that a lot. Overall I just miss running out onto the diamond before every game and practice and taking in the opportunity on the best field and representing Osceola baseball.”

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800-421-0283, x595 | polkburnett.com School Board meeting: 2370, 8420.01, 8450. A Rosanne Anderson/Brian Meyer motion was made to approve the payment of bills from General Fund with ACH numbered 201900183-201900190 and computerized checks numbered 179740-179825 for a total of $749, 3117.23. Motion Carried. A Brooke Kulzer/Pete Kammerud motion was made to approve 2020 Election Results. Congratulations to Lanette Johnson (1996 votes) and Kysa Marten (833 votes) for their positions as School Board members starting Monday, April 27. Reorganization of the Board will take place at the School Board meeting on Monday, April 27, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. The Operational Referendum Question 1 passed with a total number of votes as followed: Yes: 1,893 No: 1,019. The Facility Needs Referendum Question 2 passed with a total number of votes as followed: Yes: 1,867 No: 1,031. Craig Brunclik congratulated Lanette Johnson and Kysa Marten. Also would like to thank our community for their support. Motion Carried. A Rosanne Anderson/Pete Kammerud motion was made to approve the Director of Pupil Services job posting. Thank you Leah Voelker for her 2 years at the School District of Osceola. We wish her the best at St. Croix Central. Motion Carried. A Rosanne Anderson/Pete Kammerud motion was made to approve 2020-2021 Teacher Compensation for a Step Movement, 1% increase plus $1,250 stipend for teachers who are not eligible for a step movement. Roll Call Vote: Rosanne Anderson: Yes, Pete Kammerud: Yes, Brooke Kulzer: Yes, Brian Meyer: No, Craig Brunclik: No. Motion Carried. A Brooke Kulzer/Rosanne Anderson motion was made to approve 2020-2021 Support Staff Compensation at a 3.16% increase. Roll Call Vote: Rosanne Anderson: Yes, Pete Kammerud: Yes, Brooke Kulzer: Yes, Brian Meyer: Yes, Craig Brunclik: Yes. Motion Carried. A Brian Meyer/Rosanne Anderson motion was made to approve 2020-2021 Administrative Compensation at 2.14% increase. For the 3 administrators who did not receive a % increase during the 2019-20 school year, the 2.14% increase will be calculated off the stipend plus their base salary that was received during the 2019-20 school year. The School District of Osceola has a total of 9 administrators. Motion Carried. A Rosanne Anderson/Brooke Kulzer motion was made to approve 2020-2021 HealthPartners Medical Insurance Renewal at a 0% rate increase with a 6% cap for 2021. Lynette Edwards discussed three options that were given by HealthPartners. Motion Carried. A Brian Meyer/Brooke Kulzer motion was made to approve 2020-2021 HealthPartners Dental Insurance Renewal at no

plan changes, going to a Self-Funded Plan at a -9.1% with an estimated savings of $23,799. Lynette Edwards discussed two plan renewal options. Motion Carried. A Pete Kammerud/Brooke Kulzer motion was made to approve the graduation alternatives due to school closure. Motion Carried. A motion Pete Kammerud/Rosanne Anderson motion was made to approve continuing to pay all staff their contracted hours through their 2019-2020 contracts. Roll Call Vote: Rosanne Anderson: Yes, Pete Kammerud: Yes, Brooke Kulzer: Yes, Brian Meyer: No, Craig Brunclik: No. Motion Carried. A motion Brian Meyer/Rosanne Anderson motion was made to approve not to offer any extended contracts through June 30, 2020. Motion Carried. A Rosanne Anderson/Pete Kammerud motion was made to approve to not offer summer school in June 2020. This will give time for students and staff to focus on the distance learning plan already in place. Motion carried. Rosanne Anderson; it has been a pleasure and a learning experience serving as a School Board Member. Craig Brunclik;- thank you to all staff and administrators. The next regular Board Meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 27, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. in the Boardroom. This meeting will be offered remotely. Please visit our website for updates on how to view/listen. The next scheduled Committee Meeting is Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at 4:30 p.m. in the Boardroom. This meeting will be offered remotely. Please visit our website for updates on how to view/listen. The next regular Board Meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, May 6, 2020 at 6:00 p.m. in the Boardroom. This meeting will be offered remotely. Please visit our website for updates on how to view/listen. A Brooke Kulzer/Brian Meyer motion was made to adjourn to Executive Session pursuant to WI Statute 19.85(1) (c) and (f)

to consider the employment and compensation of any employee and for preliminary consideration of a specific matter which, if discussed in public, could have an adverse impact on the reputation of those involved. a. District Administrator Evaluation b. Personnel Considerations A Brooke Kulzer/Brian Meyer motion was made to adjourn out of the Executive Session. Motion carried. A Rosanne Anderson/Craig Brunclik motion was made to adjourn. Motion Carried. Pete Kammerud, Clerk WNAXLP

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Elk hunting applications still open Dr. Heather Marks

Wisconsin hunters have until May 31 to apply for a chance to participate in northern Wisconsin’s 2020 elk hunt. This fall marks the third official elk hunt in state history. Wisconsin residents can submit elk tag applications through the Department of Natural Resources’ Go Wild license system. Each potential hunter may apply once online or by visiting a license agent. There is a small fee. In addition, one bull tag is raffled off by the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation. Raffle tickets are also $10 each, and there is no limit on the number of raffle tickets a hunter may purchase. An elk hunting license is $49 for those who draw a tag. For each application, $7 goes to elk management and research in Wisconsin. During the first two hunting seasons, applicants generated over $400,000. These

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funds are already being used to enhance elk habitat, which benefits the elk herd and many other wildlife species that call the Northwoods home. Funding also contributes to ongoing elk research and monitoring. Hunters who draw a tag will be notified in early June. Prior to obtaining the $49 elk hunting license, all winners are required to participate in a Wisconsin elk hunter education program offered in early September. The class will cover regulations, hunting techniques and more. The 2020 hunting season is only available for the northern elk herd. Although the state’s central elk herd has grown steadily since reintroduction in 2015 and is projected to reach approximately 100 elk this summer after calving, hunting is not recommended for the central herd in 2020.

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ONE CALL We are grateful for those who have our back in this important time. The list is long, but we want to thank our first responders and front-line workers. Especially in critical times, newspapers have your back. COVID-19 is a national story that is impacting you at home and at work. Your local newspaper is keeping you informed with current events in your neighborhood and is bringing communities together in these challenging times. From the actions your local government is taking, to lists of local stores that are delivering and tips on what to do while you’re at home, your local newspaper is committed to bringing you the news you need, when you need it.

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