North Hudson hired the St. Croix County development team to help devise its Comprehensive Plan. Both Hudson and River Falls City Councils passed budgets for 2025. And in New Richmond, Lux is now serving coffee.
The last time president-elect Donald Trump was in office, various events culminated in a botched wolf hunt. How will a new Trump administration affect the wolf population in Wisconsin?
Here are a few other storylines:
Weekend Planner | Pastor's Viewpoint | Latest e-Edition
Exotic Pet Surrender coming to Hudson
Do you have an exotic pet that you are no longer able to care for? If so, bring your pet to the Exotic Pet Surrender Event on Dec. 14 between noon and 3 p.m. at Carpenter Nature Center: Wisconsin Campus, located at 279 South Cove Road Hudson, WI 54016.
Area organizations will be accepting fish, invertebrates, reptiles, pet birds, small mammals, and plants –no questions asked.
Domestic pets and farm animals including but not limited to dogs, cats, rats, mice, rabbits, guinea pigs, goats, horses, pigs, and chickens are not accepted. Please contact your local Humane Society for options about these kinds of animals.
We also cannot accept Wisconsin native animals taken from the wild. Please refer to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources website for more information on finding a licensed wildlife rehabilitator.
Birds, reptiles, and mammals originating from outside WI must be accompanied by a Certificate of Veterinary Inspection (health paper)
There will also be animal ambassadors you can meet and learn about, and a photobooth where you can take your picture with a rescued pet!
In some areas, there are no rehoming options for exotic animals such as fish, birds, and reptiles. Some pet owners that are unable to care for their pet may think that releasing the animal is the right thing to do, however, releasing a pet is harmful for the animal and the environment.
This event brings together a collection of area rehoming partners that provide responsible alternatives to release for exotic pet owners who are no longer able to care for their pets.
J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue (JRAAR) is hosting the event with help from several other area organizations including Carpenter Nature Center, and University of Wisconsin Sea Grant/Water Resources Institutes.
All surrendered animals will be available after a brief quarantine period.
Questions regarding the Exotic Pet Surrender Event can be directed to John Moyles of J&R Aquatic Animal Rescue. He can be reached at adoptions@jraar.org
New Exec. Director of St. Croix Valley Food Bank
The St. Croix Valley Food Bank Board of Directors has named longtime non-profit leader Lee Kroll as the organization’s new Executive Director. Kroll will replace Tom Holland, who was serving as interim Executive Director since September.
Kroll comes to the St. Croix Valley Food Bank following more than two decades with the YMCA serving in a variety of management roles in areas including operations, membership engagement, fundraising and program development. Most recently, Kroll was the Executive Director of the White Bear Area YMCA and previously served in leadership roles with the YMCA in the Twin Cities, Cincinnati and Milwaukee.
“We are extremely excited to have Lee lead the organization during this time of incredible need and growth,” said Marc Ruska, board president, St. Croix Valley Food Bank.
“Lee’s strong local ties, commitment to the St. Croix Valley and experience in fostering successful community-based programming will be critical as we work to end hunger in western Wisconsin. The need for food for those facing hunger insecurity continues to grow in this region and we look forward to Lee continuing the impactful work we have been able to accomplish with our partners over the past three years.”
Food banks play a critical role in providing bulk, low-cost and donated food which is then distributed to food pantries, backpack programs, churches and other hunger relief programs in local communities. Begun in 2021, the St. Croix Valley Food Bank has grown to serve nearly 60 hunger relief partners in Polk, Pierce, St. Croix and Burnett Counties.
Kroll lives in North Hudson with his wife and Leah. He has been active in numerous community organizations over the years including the Phipps Center for the Arts, Bicycle Alliance of Minnesota, White Bear Lake Rotary Club, and Many Faces Community Collaboration.
Hudson artists performing at Gustavus for Christmas
Hudson artists Betsy Anderson, Erin Farrell, and Lauren Carrier were selected to participate in the Christmas in Christ Chapel at Gustavus Adolphus College. The production includes more than 350 performers and it combines music, dance, and theatrical presentations.
The concert takes place from Dec. 2-4, and tickets are available to purchase at the Gustavus Tickets website.
AT UWRF, Future Teacher Day
The University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF) recently hosted a successful Future Teacher Day, attracting more than 250 high school students, faculty, and staff from across the region.
The event occurred Nov. 1 and was organized by the School of Education under the College of Education, Business, and Allied Health (CEBAH), and UWRF Admissions.
As UWRF celebrates 150 years of excellence in teacher education, this event offered aspiring educators an opportunity to explore the teaching profession and learn about pathways to becoming leaders in education. Future Teacher Day included workshops, panel discussions, and informative sessions aimed at providing participants with an in-depth look at the teaching profession.
In addition, attendees heard from UWRF professors and teacher candidates who shared their journeys and experiences in teacher preparation programs.
“As we celebrate 150 years of teaching teachers, we are proud to continue UWRF’s tradition of shaping the future of education,” said Stacy Furness, CEBAH associate dean. “Future Teacher Day allows us to share our passion for teaching and demonstrate the vital role educators play in shaping our communities. This visit day is a reminder of the essential role teachers play in shaping the future.”
In support of its mission to inspire and cultivate future educators, UWRF provided resources and information about scholarships, academic advising, and campus support systems. Students and their guests left Future Teacher Day with a clearer understanding of what it takes to become an educator and a strong sense of the supportive community UWRF provides for its education majors.
The success of Future Teacher Day confirms UWRF’s commitment to fostering the next generation of teachers and demonstrates the university’s proactive approach in addressing the ongoing need for quality educators.
Meyer Middle School, River Falls Schools awarded
School counselors Sam Dusek, Gary Campbell, and Jordan Seifert at Meyer Middle School in the River Falls School District, River Falls, WI, are being recognized with the 2025 Wisconsin School Counseling Team Award. This award is meant to recognize a school counseling team who works together to go above and beyond to meet the personal, career, and academic needs of their students. Sam Dusek, Gary Campbell, and Jordan Seifert will be recognized in November 2024 at the Wisconsin School Counselor Association’s Annual Conference, which takes place in the Wisconsin Dells.
Meyer Middle School’s mission states: “We are collectively committed to the academic growth, character development and well-being of every student, every day.” Principal Mark Chapin states, “Through their advocacy, leadership, systemic change and collaboration, the counseling department at Meyer Middle School is helping us live out our mission by making a difference for ALL of our students.”
Sam Dusek, Gary Campbell, and Jordan Seifert have built a school counseling program that is robust in supporting their students. Principal Chapin added that, “In addition to running 14 groups, providing individual counseling sessions, teaching classes, collaborating weekly and providing a safe space for students in our “chill room”, our counselors have written numerous grants that align with our school’s mission. In total, our counseling department has received over $9,300 in grant money over the past four years.”
Mark Chapin, Principal, summarized the team by stating, “Our counseling department serves an invaluable role at Meyer Middle School by going above and beyond to meet the needs of ALL of our students through their proactive approach, leadership, advocacy and collaboration. Most importantly, it is the integrity and character of our department that makes all the difference… It is clearly evident to me, our students, parents and staff that our counseling department has a BIG HEART. Collectively, it is their professionalism, hard work, compassion and empathy that truly makes all the difference. It is for all of these reasons that I proudly nominate the Meyer Middle School Counseling Department for this award.”
Every year, the Wisconsin School Counselor Association recognizes individuals within the school counseling profession who demonstrate profound impact on the school counseling profession and lives of students.
Nominations for the School Counseling Team Award are submitted to the Wisconsin School Counselor Association Professional Recognition & Scholarship Committee and are rated by a committee of active and retired school counselors. Award recipients are determined based on their contributions to the school counseling program, leadership, and service to their community. The organization selects one school counseling team to receive this award.
UWRF Professional Sales Club competes at ICSC
University of Wisconsin-River Falls (UWRF) Professional Sales Club members represented the university at the recent International Collegiate Sales Competition (ICSC) in Orlando, Fla., a global event that challenges students to showcase their skills in relationship building, sales strategy, and persuasive presentations.
UWRF student participants in the event, which occurred from Oct. 30-Nov. 2, are marketing professional sales majors in the College of Education, Business and Allied Health (CEBAH) and participated in three primary categories: a role-play event, a sales management case event, and a speed-selling event.
In the role-play event, students engaged in scenarios that focus on relationship development and customer needs assessment. This event allowed participants to practice interpersonal skills that are essential to success in sales careers.
The sales management case event presented students with complex sales management scenarios that required them to solve real-world business challenges. Participants demonstrated their ability to manage resources, motivate sales teams, and achieve business objectives.
The fast-paced speed-selling competition allowed students to present concise, persuasive sales pitches showcasing their personal brand. In this “elevator pitch” format, students learned to communicate clearly under time constraints, a vital skill in the business world.
Ozcan Kilic, the Professional Sales Club’s faculty advisor and a marketing professor in the School of Business and Economics, said students participating in the competition learned hands-on, real-world sales experience and had the chance to network with industry leaders.
Those opportunities offer students learning beyond what they receive in the classroom, Kilic said, and establish UWRF as a leader in sales education.
“Participating in the ICSC in Orlando is not only a transformative, powerful growth experience for our sales team but also a vital step toward our vision for sales education at UWRF,” Kilic said. “This competition not only enhances our students' growth and potential but also elevates the university’s reputation in the field of sales education, showing that UWRF is committed to fostering top talent in a highly competitive industry.”
UWRF’s participation in the competition reflects the university’s commitment to preparing students for successful careers in sales and business, Kilic said. In addition to gaining national recognition, students can make connections with potential employers, laying the groundwork for internships and post-graduation opportunities.
For more information on the Professional Sales Club or the marketing program, contact Ozcan Kilic at ozcan.kilic@uwrf.edu, or visit uwrf.edu/programs/marketing-professional-sales.
Tattersall’s Winter Market returning to River Falls
WHAT: Tattersall Distilling’s winter market will return to River Falls this holiday season, featuring more than 50 unique local craftsmen, brands and curated gifts. Each weekend will feature different vendors, giving shoppers a reason to visit Tattersall twice. Guests will be able to browse among woodworking, ceramics, blown glass, jewelry, food and bakery items, boutique clothing and more.
Additionally, Tattersall’s retail market and tasting room will be stocked with special gifts for all including its new foraging cocktail book, Cocktails in Bloom, limited release Six-Year Bottled in Bond Wheated Whiskey, Seven-Year Bottled in Bond Rye Whiskey, and the chance to purchase memberships to Tattersall’s annual Cask Club. Additional new gifts include Tattersall Rum Barreled Ethiopian Blend Whole Bean Coffee, a collaboration with Ember and Bean Roasting Co., and Infusion Kits, available in three cocktails – Old Fashioned, South of the Border, and Aromatic Citrus. Simply add a spirit of choice, refrigerate for 2-3 days, strain, pour over ice and enjoy.
Five craft cocktail bars will be set up across the distillery serving seasonal craft cocktails and non-alcoholic drinks. Specials will include Apple Cinnamon Ginger Punch, Cranberry Pomegranate Blossom, and the Pear Maple Fig Punch, available in individual servings and also as Tattersall Travelers, 1.75-liter cocktails to go.
Ample parking will be available on-site for guests outside of the distillery.
WHO: More details can be found a www.tattersalldistilling.com/winter-market/
WHEN: Saturday, Nov 30 and Sunday, Dec 1 from 11 am to 5 pm and, Saturday, Dec 14, and, Sunday, Dec 15 from 11 am to 5 pm
WHERE: Tattersall Distilling River Falls
1777 Paulson Road, River Falls, WI
About Tattersall Distilling:
Founded by childhood friends over seven years ago, Tattersall’s portfolio has grown to more than 30 all-natural spirits and liqueurs available across most of the U.S. With its cocktail room in Northeast Minneapolis and its destination distillery in River Falls, Wisconsin, products are always made from the best ingredients available, locally sourced whenever possible. As such, Tattersall has gained national recognition with top honors at the San Francisco World Spirits Competition, American Craft Spirits Association Awards, American Distilling Institute Awards and more. Tattersall was named on the Inc. 5000 list of fastest-growing private companies in America for four years. For more information visit www.tattersalldistilling.com or follow them on Instagram and Facebook @tattersalldistilling
How Doar, Drill & Skow invests in youth hockey
New Richmond law firm Doar, Drill & Skow recently celebrated the ribbon cutting of two new ice resurfacing machines, one for the New Richmond Youth Hockey Association and one for Baldwin’s Blackhawk Hockey Association. Both Zambonis feature a full-wrap ad for Doar, Drill & Skow’s personal injury legal services. They will be welcome additions to the growing hockey associations. Doar Drill and Skow is also a proud sponsor of the Hudson Hockey Association.
This new sponsorship has an extra special connection for the firm. Members of Doar, Drill & Skow have been a part of the New Richmond Youth Hockey Association since its inception in 1972, from sponsorships and fundraisers to attorney referees and raising players of their own.
Doar Drill and Skow’s Kate Bosworth said of the firm’s recent financial contributions to youth hockey, “We’re excited to be part of these incredible hockey associations, and to give back to youth in our communities in this way. Most of us at the firm live and work in these areas, many of us have kids on the local teams. Our roots run so deep within these communities. From the late great Tom Bell refereeing youth games in New Richmond in the 90s, to Mike Brose driving Zambonis for Hudson, it means a tremendous amount for my partners and me to continue this long-standing tradition of being involved in youth athletics, particularly youth hockey. We look forward to continuing to find meaningful ways to engage and give back to a place that has given us so much.”
Doar, Drill & Skow has been an active member of the legal and local community for over 140 years.
St. Croix County’s request for bids
St. Croix County, WI is requesting timber bids for a thinning of the Kinnickinnic County Forest located at: 1335 Evergreen Dr. River Falls, WI 54022. St. Croix County is also requesting bids for the following projects located at Pine Lake Boat Landing: 745 153rd Ave, Baldwin, WI 54002
New ADA accessible dock
New ADA accessible vault toilet
New 18’x40’ pavilion with electric
New 5’ wide concrete walkway
Leveling of boat landing panels
Paving of gravel parking lot
Information on the two projects can be obtained by contacting Jason Kjeseth at Jason.Kjeseth@sccwi.gov or 715-781-8490. Both bids will be due by 2 p.m. on Monday, Dec. 2.
SCEDC asks for Business of the Year nominations
The St. Croix Economic Development Corporation (SCEDC) is excited to announce the call for nominations for the 2024 Business of the Year Awards, recognizing exceptional achievements by local businesses. SCEDC seeks to honor three businesses across specific categories that have demonstrated a significant impact on the St. Croix County community.
This year’s awards will include:
– Emerging Business of the Year – Open to companies headquartered in St. – Croix County and operating for less than five years.
– Small Business of the Year – Reserved for businesses with 29 or fewer employees that have been in St. Croix County for at least five years.
– Large Business of the Year – For companies with 30 or more employees, also located in St. Croix County for a minimum of five years.
Eligibility Criteria Eligible businesses must be in manufacturing, distribution, construction, health care, or provide services to other businesses. Companies must operate for profit; retail and non-profit organizations are not eligible for consideration.
Self-nominations are encouraged, and all qualifying companies should consult the Nomination Guidelines and application under ‘News and Updates’ at stcroixedc.com for further details.
Nominations must be submitted by Friday, December 13, 2024.
Save the Date: Award recipients will be announced in January and celebrated at the SCEDC’s Annual Banquet on Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025, from 5-8 p.m. at Ready Randy's. Details for registration will be available soon.
This is an exciting opportunity for the St. Croix community to recognize and celebrate the hard work and contributions of our local businesses. We look forward to receiving your nominations.
Family Resource Center with changes to top brass
The Board of Directors of Family Resource Center St Croix Valley (FRCSCV) is excited to announce significant changes in the leadership structure of the organization, effective immediately.
The Board has approved a new leadership model, appointing Jen Jones, Marla Butler, and Neil Kline to FRCSCV’s Leadership Team. Collectively, they have assumed responsibility for the overall management and leadership of FRCSCV from Interim Director Mark Tyler.
Jen Jones will serve as FRCSCV’s Business Manager and brings years of experience working at FRCSCV and in other businesses. Jen is responsible for fiscal control, contract management, and administrative operations of the organization.
Marla Butler has worked at FRCSCV for nearly 20 years as a Parent Educator. In her role as Program Manager, Marla oversees the team of dedicated Parent Educators that form the heart of FRCSCV’s work.
Neil Kline is the final member of FRCSCV’s new Leadership Team as the Development and Communications Manager. In this role, Neil is responsible for FRCSCV’s fundraising and communications functions, including community outreach. Neil continues to serve as the Executive Director of Family Friendly Workplaces.
“The Leadership Team is truly excited to support our outstanding team of Parent Educators and the important work they do,” said Neil. “FRCSCV has a remarkable legacy of strengthening children and families in St. Croix, Pierce, and Polk Counties, and we look forward to continuing that work.”
In addition to appointing the Leadership Team, FRCSCV is pleased to welcome five new directors to the board: Ryan Cari, Emma O’Connell, Donna Hayes, Jennifer Pollitt, and Abby Klatt.
These new directors bring a wealth of diverse knowledge and experience to the board. Their terms will begin on January 1, 2025. The newly elected officers are Amber Morgan as President, Barry Cain as Vice President, Mark Tyler as Treasurer, Tara Buechner as Secretary, and Chad Fett as Past President.
FRCSCV extends its sincere appreciation to the departing board members Mary Sue Ash, Carla O’Connell, and Sam Cari for their long-standing service. Mary Sue Ash has been with FRCSCV since its inception in 1998, Carla O’Connell has served on the FRCSCV Board since 2005, and Sam Cari has served on the Board since 2010.
FRCSCV’s mission is to strengthen children, families and communities through education, resources, and support.
St. Croix County launches annual tree, plant sale
The St. Croix County Community Development Department is excited to announce its annual Tree and Plant Sale, running now through mid-April.
This sale encourages area residents to transform their landscapes while supporting our mission to protect and preserve our beautiful natural resources. The sale includes deciduous, evergreen, and fruit trees, along with a selection of shrubs, plants, compost bins, and pails.
This year’s sale features a diverse array of hardy trees, shrubs, and plants suited to our local climate, including native species that support pollinators and wildlife. Popular items include our white pines, 4 varieties of cold hardy apple trees, and our butterfly garden plants.
Sale Dates: Now – Mid-April
Pickup: Late April – June, depending on the items ordered.
You will be notified when your order has arrived. View the Catalog and Order Online: sccwi.gov/Tree-Sale Together, let’s enhance our community’s green spaces and preserve the natural beauty of St. Croix County.
A New Way to Order Our Community Development Department now offers an online nature marketplace where you can easily browse and purchase items from the annual Tree and Plant Sale, get park passes, and make campground reservations — all in one place! Learn more at: sccwi.gov/Shop-Nature.
Feuerhelm Langer: a family friendly workplace
Family Friendly Workplaces (FFW) is pleased to announce that Feuerhelm Langer, a respected accounting firm dedicated to the success of both its clients and its team, has earned its first gold-level certification as a Family Friendly Workplace.
This certification celebrates Feuerhelm Langer’s commitment to creating a supportive and family-focused work environment for its employees.
“We are honored to be recognized as a Family Friendly Workplace,” said Sarah Moegenburg, Managing CPA at Feuerhelm Langer. “At Feuerhelm Langer, we believe that empowering our team in both their professional and family lives is essential to our firm’s success. This certification reflects our dedication to making that vision a reality.”
Achieving this certification required a thorough evaluation of Feuerhelm Langer’s policies in areas such as healthcare benefits, flexible work arrangements, parental leave, and family support initiatives. In alignment with their family-friendly values, Feuerhelm Langer also made an annual conduit contribution to the Family Resource Center St. Croix Valley, underscoring their commitment to strengthening resources that benefit families throughout the community.
“Feuerhelm Langer’s commitment to a family-centered work culture is a model for organizations across the region,” said Neil Kline, Executive Director of Family Friendly Workplaces. “We’re thrilled to welcome them into our network of certified workplaces, and we look forward to the positive impact their leadership will continue to have on families in the St. Croix Valley and beyond.”
As a certified Family Friendly Workplace, Feuerhelm Langer can now use the Family Friendly Workplaces logo in its branding materials, and it gains access to valuable resources to further enhance its employee-focused policies. This certification not only benefits current employees but also reinforces Feuerhelm Langer’s attractiveness to prospective talent seeking an employer committed to work-life balance.
For more information on Family Friendly Workplaces and its certification program, visit www.familyfriendlyworkplaces.org.
Burnett County also a family friendly workplace
Family Friendly Workplaces (FFW) recently announced the certification of Burnett County as a gold-level Family Friendly Workplace, marking a significant milestone in the county's commitment to fostering a supportive and inclusive work environment for its employees and their families.
“Burnett County is dedicated to creating an environment where our employees can thrive both personally and professionally,” stated Don Taylor, Chair of the Burnett County Board. “Being recognized as a gold-level Family Friendly Workplace reflects our ongoing efforts to prioritize the well-being of our workforce and their families.”
To achieve this certification, Burnett County underwent a comprehensive evaluation of its human resources policies and practices, with a focus on criteria such as healthcare, time off, flexible work arrangements, childcare, early childhood support, and more. As a certified employer, Burnett County can proudly display the Family Friendly Workplaces logo in its marketing and recruitment efforts and gain access to a wide range of valuable resources.
“Burnett County is leading the region as the first northwestern Wisconsin county government (and 2nd in the entire state) to be certified, and we are excited to welcome them into the family,” said Neil Kline, Executive Director of Family Friendly Workplaces. “Employers in both the public and private sectors face a challenging labor market, and Burnett County’s proactive approach to becoming an employer of choice is both strategic and beneficial for families.”
Addressing the human resources challenges in northwestern Wisconsin requires a strategic approach. The Family Friendly Workplaces Certification Program offers a roadmap for employers to compete for talent effectively while proactively addressing this long-term issue.
For more information about Family Friendly Workplaces and its certification program, please visit familyfriendlyworkplaces.org.
