My Northern Wisconsin

Covering Ashland, Iron, Lincoln, Oneida, Price, Rusk, Sawyer, Taylor, and Vilas Counties


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PHILLIPS: ACCOUNTS RECEIVABLE LEAD


Help Wanted    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 03-13-2024, 02:42 AM

Apply here.

Job Description:

Using data mining and advanced analytical skills, the Accounts Receivable Lead is responsible for facilitating data-driven decision-making related to billing and cash collections.  This will include forecasting, budgeting, financial reporting, development, and reporting of associated metrics.  In addition, this role will also assist the accounting leadership team in project work, accounting cycle activities, and performing functional transactions.

Principal Duties and Responsibilities (Essential Functions):

Contract Invoicing and Collections:                 
Partner with value streams, leadership, and sales teams across the business to understand contractual agreements specific to billing and collections.
Set and understand contract payment terms, track milestones, follow changing ship dates
Invoicing to milestones; collection of funds
Cash forecasting for collection dates on contracts invoiced
Customer credit limit maintenance and approvals
Work with sales and value streams to correct invoice disputes and process related customer credits
Perform accounting transactions as required, including monthly AR close
Participate in financial and cross-functional project teams as necessary
Advance the development of standard work and cross training within the finance team
Other duties as assigned
Education and Experience:

Associate’s or Bachelor’s degree in Accounting preferred; relevant experience accepted
2-5 years of relevant professional experience
Job Specifications:

Excellent communication and customer service skills
Computer skills, including experience with MS Excel and Power BI or other business intelligence software
Analytical skills
Working knowledge of accounting principles
Excellent problem-solving skills and judgement
Must possess a high level of attention to detail and accuracy in calculations/transactions
Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and meet all deadlines
Strong organizational skills
Travel:

Occasional travel is expected for this position.  Anticipated travel is less than 10%.

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job.  If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.  We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions.  Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.


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PHILLIPS: CNC MACHINIST


Help Wanted    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 03-13-2024, 02:41 AM

Apply here.

Job Description:

As the CNC Machinist at BW Papersystems, you will perform duties required to set up and efficiently operate two or more CNC machines to perform rough and finish milling, turning, drilling, reaming, tapping, facing, boring, and other operations on parts, following routings and prints and using knowledge of machine capabilities and shop math.

JOB FUNCTIONS

Essential Functions

Read and interpret blueprints, sketches, and technical data to determine tooling requirements, setup procedures, control sequences, spindle/tool coordinates, machining methods, tooling, and sequences.

Load program into machine controller or enter commands to retrieve pre-programmed routines, and continually inspect as needed.

Position parts relative to pre-programmed location using parallels, fixtures, shims, and other holding devices.

Set positions on control panel using offsets to prevent crashing of spindle into part or holding device.

Calculate and set machine controls to position spindle in relation to workpiece.

Start machine and monitor display and machine operation to detect malfunctions.

Enter commands or manually adjust machine controls to correct malfunctions or out of tolerance machining.

Confer with supervisor or programmer to resolve problems.

Follow prescribed rules for safety and cleanliness, maintaining work area and equipment in accordance with standards and policies for safe conduct and operation of equipment.

Report defective material, parts, equipment, and unusual conditions to leader.

Mount, align and secure tooling, attachments, and workpiece on machine.

Manipulate dials and switches to override program and correct machine performance, applying practical knowledge of machine operation.

Observe and listen to machine operation to detect malfunctions, such as worn or damaged cutting tools.

Measure finished parts for conformance to specifications, using precision instruments such as calipers, micrometers, dial indicators and gauges.

Instruct and assist other machinists with complex machining problems, setups and operations.

Manage machining jobs to ensure completion of required machining work within specified time frames.

Identify, communicate, and document improvements to procedures and processes.

Set up and operate multiple CNC machines effectively and efficiently that is required to the plan.

Comply with company standards for attendance and hours of work.

Skills and Abilities

Which may be representative but not all inclusive of those commonly associated with this position:

Apply common sense to carry out instructions given in written, oral or diagram form.

Deal with problems in standard situations encountered on the job.

Perform basic arithmetic with common and decimal fractions.

Understand and work with practical geometry such as circumference and properties of pairs of angles.

Communicate job related issues to teammates and leader.

POSITION QUALIFICATION REQUIREMENTS

High school diploma or GED equivalent is required with 4+ years of CNC Machine operating experience.

2-year technical certification of a CNC or Machine relatable experience.


At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job.  If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.  We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions.  Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.


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PHILLIPS: ELECTRICAL DESIGNER


Help Wanted    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 03-13-2024, 02:39 AM

Apply here.

Job Description:

BW Papersystems is looking for a talented Electrical Designer, who will perform a variety of electrical design duties for Corrugated equipment which includes creation of new designs, modification of existing designs, adaptation of previous designs to meet specific customer requirements and modernize the current designs.

Key Responsibilities/Complexities:

Work under the direction of a senior designer to create current design opportunities for existing corrugated machinery. 

Create electrical schematics and panel layouts, select electrical components, evaluate design to verify fit and function with due consideration for manufacturing feasibility, cost, and operation.

Knowledge of applicable electrical codes (NEC, CSA, CE) as applied to industrial machine design is considered a plus.

Make simple calculations of specific electrical components such as fuses, starters, overload relays and conductors.

Prepare bill of materials, installation instructions, operations, and maintenance manuals, as well as maintain product history files.

Evaluate engineering change requests and determine necessary drawing and bill of material updates.

Perform other duties as assigned.

Basic Qualifications and Requirements:

High School Diploma or GED Equivalent with 2+ years Electrical Assembly and AutoCAD Electrical 2D knowledge/experience.

Associate or Technical degree in related field with AutoCAD Electrical 2D knowledge/experience.

At Barry-Wehmiller we recognize that people come with a wealth of experience and talent beyond just the technical requirements of a job.  If your experience is close to what you see listed here, please still consider applying.  We know that our differences often can bring about innovation, excellence and meaningful work—therefore, people from all backgrounds are encouraged to apply to our positions.  Please let us know if you require reasonable accommodations during the interview process.

Barry-Wehmiller is an equal opportunity employer. M/F/D/V This organization uses E-Verify.

Applicants may be subject to pre-employment screening which may include drug screening, reference checks, employment verifications, background screening and/or skills assessments.


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RED & EAGLE AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT PARK FALLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL


News: Park Falls and Fifield    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 03-09-2024, 03:42 AM

The February RED winners from Park Falls Elementary School of the Chequamegon School District are from Mrs. Olson's kindergarten class.  The students read the most minutes out of all the classes in the elementary school for February 2024.

   

February 2024 Eagle Award winners from Park Falls Elementary School of the Chequamegon School District distinguished themselves as being "friendly" at school.

   
Front row, left to right:  Luna Flak, Ar-Joe Santiago, Layla Rauschenbach, Azaeliah Christensen, Elliana Singer, Greysen Hawn, Jase Palecek, and Tyler Treviranus

Back row, left to right:  Bella Eggleston, Auna BeBeau, Carter Schuelke, Khloe Brinegar, Sirina Ben-Fraj, Rowan Fuller, Adeline Branch, and Angel LaPlant

You can share this article on Facebook at this link.

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SPONSOR OF FREE NEWS AND COMMUNITY EVENTS.  Park Village offers affordable, active living in a park-like setting for those 55+ and disabled persons in Park Falls. Rent is based on 30% Adjusted Gross Income.  Small pets under 30 pounds are welcome.  Contact Park Village at 715-762-4747.


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POLICE REPORTS: FEBRUARY 2024


News: Countywide    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 03-09-2024, 03:24 AM

   

Reports received by the police departments in Price County for the month have been condensed and summarized.

PRICE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

2-2-2024:  A Park Falls man reported finding his roommate in the garage, and he believed the man was deceased.

2-2-2024:  A Fifield woman received a call, claiming to be Walmart, which stated her $900 play set had been shipped.  The recording stated she should press a number on her phone if she wished to report this as a scam.  When she pressed the number, a man kept asking for her name, so she hung up realizing it was a scam call.

2-5-2024:  A male reported a physical altercation outside of a bar in Park Falls.

2-7-2024:  A woman reported seeing dogs locked in an abandoned house.  The humane officer responded.

2-8-2024:  An Ogema man stated damage was caused to his fence when a man driving a truck and hauling round bales of hay went off the road, dumping the hay bales onto the man's fence and knocking it down.  The man who caused the damage was attempting to repair the fence.

2-8-2024:  A Park Falls woman called to report her sister was attacked by her husband, who fled the scene.

2-8-2024:  A Phillips woman stated someone in a silver truck was shining her field, and she heard a gunshot.

2-9-2024:  A woman reported a single vehicle accident with all air bags deployed and someone still in the vehicle.

2-9-2024:  A man reported a man fell through the ice and had not resurfaced for about two minutes.

2-10-2024:  A call from an iPhone was received advising a crash was detected.  Dispatch called the number several times and made contact with a man who stated he fell asleep behind the wheel after picking up his friend from the bar.  The man advised his truck was on top of him.  Emergency services responded and both men were gotten out of the vehicle.

2-10-2024:  An Ogema woman reported that a man had sent her a message during the morning stating he was having chest pains and she should call 911, but she did not see the message until she woke up.  She could not make contact with him, so she went to his home and saw him through the window.  He was collapsed and purple.  She stated the man was deceased.

2-10-2024:  A Catawba woman stated someone used a screwdriver to pry rubber off her screen door.

2-12-2024:  A woman reported a disorderly conduct incident at the February 8, 2024 Town of Flambeau meeting.

2-12-2024:  A caller stated there were ducks all across the road north of Maki Spur Road.  The ducks had been there for several days and caused people to swerve and slam on their brakes.  One duck was hit by a vehicle.  The caller believed the ducks were owned by a nearby resident.  The humane officer responded.  It was reported that several deceased animals were on the property, seen from the driveway.

2-12-2024:  A man advised someone broke into a garage in Phillips.  He was driving by when he observed the service door to the garage was wide open.

2-13-2024:  An Ogema woman reported her teenage daughter was hiding in their home while someone was trying to break into the residence.  The woman said the person does not have a vehicle, so she figured they would be on foot or on a bicycle.  Officers arrived to find one male at the front door.  People were in the back by the chicken coops.  One person was taken into custody.

2-14-2024:  A Prentice woman called to report someone had logged her property.

2-14-2024:  A Butternut man provided his Medicare card information to someone over the phone.  They asked him if he received his new plastic card to replace his paper one.  He provided his name, date of birth, and an identification number.

2-15-2024:  A Fifield man was shopping online when a pop-up appeared on his computer, claiming to be from Microsoft.  He called the number on the pop-up, and the scammer gained full access to his computer.  The scammer took a photo of the man's driver's license.  The man said he may have given the scammer his Social Security number.  The scammer tried to withdraw $25,000 from his bank account, but the bank blocked the transaction.

2-16-2024:  A Prentice man suspected a break-in at his house given there were marks around his door, which he believed were made by crowbars.

2-18-2024:  A Phillips woman reported a break-in at her residence.  She believed two family members drilled out the locks because she caught them on the property in the past on her trail cameras.

2-19-2024:  A Phillips man reported a two-vehicle accident he was involved in.  There were no injuries.

2-19-2024:  A Fifield man reported he was physically forced out of his residence by a woman and a guy he knew only be a nickname. The man said there were threats made but later stated they were assumed threats.

2-20-2024:  A Catawba woman requested extra patrol by her house during a half hour period because she believed someone was on her porch the night prior and there has been a loud navy blue truck in the area that she and her neighbor do not recognize.

2-21-2024:  A Phillips man reported he could hear gunshots on the north side of Musser Lake that had been occurring for ten minutes.

2-22-2024:  Multiple 911 calls were received.  Dispatch heard a male say, "Someone got murdered."  Dispatch could hear someone crying in the background before the calls were disconnected.  When dispatch called back multiple times, a male would answer and then hang up when he found out dispatch was calling.  Police responded.

2-22-2024:  A man had a homemade weapon in his possession at the Price County Jail.

2-23-2024:  While incarcerated at the Price County Jail, a woman made a threat to a witness in a case.

2-23-2024:  A woman reported receiving a scam call from "Ernesto," who claimed to be the chief investigator for the FBI in Madison. He said he was calling her regarding an abandoned vehicle with drugs in it linked to her and that he was aware she had several bank accounts totaling 1.4 million dollars.  He told her that since she brought drugs across the border, the FBI in Texas was also involved.  He said her nursing license was under review due to this matter.  When she said she would talk to local law enforcement, Ernesto advised her not to talk with anyone else about this as he was law enforcement who was trying to help her. She asked how her information may have been available for someone to use, and he said possibly through an alleged breach that the clinic had a few months ago.  After the call, the woman contacted the FBI in Texas who informed her this was a scam.

2-23-2024:  A bus driver in Phillips notified the bus garage that a student may have a firearm on the bus.  Police responded. See related article.

2-24-2024:  A Park Falls female called 911 to report someone tried to hang herself.  The caller stated she found the person with a cord wrapped around her neck, but she was alert and breathing.

2-25-2024:  A Prentice man reported a grass fire.

2-26-2024:  A Park Falls woman called stating she received a Facebook message from a woman who asked her to call law enforcement because a man was at her residence yelling at her, causing a disturbance, and she was afraid she was going to get hit.  The caller called back to state the woman told her she no longer needed law enforcement as the man had left.  Dispatch attempted to make contact with the woman who needed the police but could not, so a message was left to call the sheriff's office. The woman called back and stated she was okay.  She stated the man was a worker from the Town of Fifield and she felt he was overly aggressive when telling her she needed to pay her water bill.  She said she intended to drop the payment off that night.

2-27-2024:  A Park Falls woman reported suspicious activity on her property line.  She believed her neighbor cut her trees, removed fencing, and burned tree stumps on her side of the property.  She said her neighbor made a pond that was over her property line by nine inches.

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PHILLIPS POLICE DEPARTMENT

2-2-2024:  Escorted the Phillips High School dance team out of town on their way to State competition.

2-3-2024:  Notified by mail by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections that an offender was released into the community and will be housed at an address in the City of Phillips.

2-3-2024:  Received a report from a male individual who stated his ex-significant other was contacting him when there was a court ordered no contact in place. An officer spoke with both parties involved and is investigating this matter.

2-4-2024:  Arrested a female adult as the female had an an active commitment order warrant out of Price County.  The adult female was not able to post the bond and was held at the Price County Jail.

2-13-2024:  Received information from a local school district about a juvenile student who was making inappropriate comments to a school staff member.  The student was disciplined within the school and a report for record was generated.

2-13-2024:  Received a report of a battery incident that occurred a month ago in the City of Phillips between three male juveniles. An officer is investigating the incident.

2-15-2024:  Dispatched to a report of a jack-knifed semi on Depot Street.  An officer arrived and observed the semi was legally parked along the side of Depot Street.  The driver advised he was unable to go up the hill due to the ice on the roadway.  City of Phillips Department of Public Works responded and sanded the roadway.  The semi left without issue.

2-16-2024:  Received a report of vandalism at the Elk Lake Park Pavilion.  An officer reviewed security footage and is attempting to identify three juveniles involved in the vandalism.  An investigation is pending.

2-16-2024:   Observed numerous bags of refuse in a yard on Jackson Avenue.  An officer spoke with the occupant of the home.  An adult male indicated that he would remove the bags of refuse.  An officer issued a courtesy notice.

2-18-2024:  Assisted the Price County Sheriff's Office with a complaint in the City of Phillips by gaining access to an apartment complex and stood by while an adult female was arrested for misdemeanor bail jumping and violating a court injunction.

2-21-2024:  Assisted the Wisconsin State Patrol with a traffic stop in the City of Phillips.  As a result, an adult female was arrested for operating a motor vehicle with a restricted controlled substance.  The adult female was transported to the medical center for a blood draw.

2-21-2024:  Received a phone call from an intoxicated female who was concerned that her ex-husband was attempting to contact her. The officer spoke with the adult female and determined that the adult female was upset that she was arrested a couple days prior for violating a court order.

2-22-2024:  Requested by the Park Falls Police Department to locate and arrest a 17-year old male for possession of drugs and drug paraphernalia.  An officer located the male and arrested him.

2-23-2024:  Received a report of animal abandonment.  An officer and Price County Human Deputy responded.  The investigation is pending.

2-23-2024:  Responded to a possible threat on a school bus.  See related article.

2-23-2024:  Received a report of an intoxicated man that was causing a disturbance at a local laundromat.  The officer responded and met with the adult male who was uncooperative.  The man was arrested.

2-25-2024:  Made contact with a man and woman.  The officer was aware of a bond condition that the woman shall not have contact with the man.  An officer reviewed the bond form and arrested the adult female on felony bail jumping.  The female was booked into the Price County Jail.

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SPONSOR OF FREE NEWS & COMMUNITY EVENTS.  Davette Lynne Hrabak, CPA, located at 164 South Lake Avenue in Phillips, specializes in tax return preparation, business start-up services, consulting, bookkeeping, payroll, and all your accounting needs.  Call 715-339-6638 or visit Davette's website.  Follow her Facebook page.


PARK FALLS POLICE DEPARTMENT

2-1-2024:  An officer made a consensual contact with a suspicious male suspect in a convenience store parking lot who had entered and exited the store three times, back and forth to his vehicle. An officer later learned the male suspect falsified his identity to the officer by giving his proper last name but giving the first name of his fraternal twin brother.  The name he gave did not have any outstanding warrants, so the officer let him go.  The officer then did a search online and found the man did not look like the name that he gave, and while talking with an officer in Ashland County, who is related to the man in question, the officer learned his real name and found he is Class-D Suspended.  The officer could not locate the man.

2-1-2024:  An officer met a concerned citizen at the police department.  They informed him that they were out at the dog park with their dog and could hear someone shooting what sounded like a small caliber rifle.  The person stated that they could hear one of the shots ricochet off the fence surrounding the dog park. Officers couldn't locate the shooter or any signs that shots had recently been fired.

2-3-2024:  Price County Dispatch informed an officer of a highly-intoxicated male thought to be under the influence of illegal drugs at the medical center's emergency room.  The male was reported as being belligerent and continuously leaving his hospital room.  An officer was able Tt de-escalate the situation.

2-4-2024:  Price County Dispatch reported a disturbance of an unwanted male in a home.  Upon arrival, an officer de-escalated the situation and gave an intoxicated male a ride to a motel where the male would be staying for the night.

2-6-2024:  An officer conducted a traffic stop on a suspect semi, which had been speeding and operating with two blown-out tires. Upon investigation, the semi was learned to have extensive damage and had been stolen from Athens, WI by the suspect driver.  One male suspect taken into custody.  Numerous citations were issued and criminal charges were referred to the district attorney.

2-7-2024:  A complaint of multiple individuals lurking around parked vehicles and using flashlights and headlamps to navigate in the dark was received.  The suspects reportedly departed just prior to an officer arriving on the scene.  The reporting party reported two separate suspicious complaints.

2-8-2024:  Officers were dispatched by Price County Dispatch requesting assistance for a domestic in progress involving injuries outside the city limits.  One male was arrested.  The Price County Sheriff's Office took over the investigation.

2-9-2024:  The Price County Sheriff's Office requested mutual aid for a single vehicle crash involving an occupant of unknown status.  Upon investigation by police, one driver was arrested for OWI.

2-11-2024:  Police responded to a two-vehicle accident without injuries.  One man told the officer that he accidentally backed up into another vehicle near the entrance to the parking lot of a store.

2-14-2024:  An officer spoke with one male reporting party who stated he believed he had been drugged at a local bar.

2-17-2024:  A female contacted police stating that there are footprints in the snow around her home, and at one point the footprints stopped right under her bedroom window as if someone was looking in the window.  An officer investigated and forwarded the report to the Price County Sheriff's Office.

2-17-2024:  Received a report of a defiant 12-year-old child who was angry, disobedient, and hitting the parent en route from Phillips to Park Falls when she learned her cell phone would be taken away when she got home.  An officer spoke to parent and child, though the child refused to exit the vehicle to talk with the officer.

2-18-2024:  Received a request from Price County Dispatch to assist with a report of a one-vehicle accident on Hwy. 13 north of Park Falls.  The suspect left the scene of the accident.  Live electrical wires from the accident forced both lanes of Hwy. 13 to be shut down.  Park falls officers stabilized the scene until Price County deputies arrived.

2-18-2024:  A truck was observed parked, likely overnight, at a restaurant & bar.  The registered owner is on probation, is a Tier 2 sex offender, has a revoked driver's license, and has one current criminal case for which they are on bail bond.  The report was sent to the individual's probation agent in Rusk County.

2-18-2024:  An officer observed a male pull into a driveway.  The officer knew, from previous experience, that due to an injunction order and bond conditions, the male was not to be in contact with the victim or the residence.  The male was arrested for offenses, and charges were referred to the Price County district attorney's office.

2-22-2024:  An officer was requested to respond to the high school to retrieve an item of drug paraphernalia that had been found on the floor of a classroom.  The item was a black cylindrical tube with a cap.  The tube had a marijuana leaf on it and was clearly a marijuana product.  Police were informed the item had been found on the floor of the art room earlier in the day.  It is unknown who the item had belonged to.

2-22-2024:  Assisted the Price County Sheriff's Office with multiple 911 calls that came in where a male stated he murdered someone and then would not answer dispatch upon call back.  Upon an officer's arrival down the road, nothing could be heard from the area.  Deputies arrived and cleared the scene.  No one was found to be in distress.  One male was subsequently arrested by the Price County Sheriff's Office for the charge of swatting.

2-23-2024:  Officers were dispatched to the medical center for a female who brought suspected drugs into the hospital and attempted to conceal them on her person.  Medical personnel took possession of the suspected drugs and held it until officers arrived.  The suspected drugs were tested, which resulted in a positive test result for methamphetamine.  The female was taken into custody and transported to Price County Jail.

2-24-2024:  An officer was dispatched to the ice rink for a theft of $100 by an employee.  Video footage captured the theft, and the money was eventually relinquished by the suspect.  A citation and parent notification letter were issued.  The suspect was barred from the property indefinitely.

2-24-2024:  A woman reported she believed her neighbors were dumping food over the fence into her yard.

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THE WINTER THAT WASN'T


Off the Road Again    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 02-26-2024, 01:56 PM

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By:  Sandy Onchuck

Last week, someone described this winter season as “the winter that wasn’t,” after snowplowing for our township for over 30 years; I think this is a perfect description. This year has definitely been way beyond unusual.

……The Winters That Were

During our plowing years, winter's end was always an interesting time for us.  As the snowbanks melted, we never knew what we might find.  Usually, it was damaged mailboxes, busted-up sign posts, damaged lawns, grader parts lost while plowing, and a host of other issues.  But a smashed-up car?  And the humorous part of this story is that no one realized this until the spring thaw.

It was the spring of 1998, and as the snow began to melt and as the crocuses started peeking through the snow, we were shocked, to say the least, to see Grandpa Onchuck’s old Citation peeking through the snow bank, emerging from the mounds of snow, all smashed to smithereens.

Even though the old girl was a “beater” and had seen better days, she still had some life left, and Grandpa still used her when driving back and forth to his son's farm to help with the chores.

He had bought a newer car and that winter was allowing the Citation to hibernate.  Not foreseeing the enormous amount of snow that winter would bring, pappy had parked it too close to the snowplow turnaround.  So out of sight - out of mind, the grader operator, (this time not Dennis), had forgotten it was there.  As the winter snow began building up, the snowbanks increased.  The plowman, thinking he was pushing the snowbank back, was actually climbing up on top of the car.  The grader’s engine noise muffled the sound of crushing metal and breaking glass.

   

Even though the old girl ended up "Off the Road," Dennis, the "King of Surgical Transplanting," managed to salvage the starter, heater, motor, headlights, tires, and just about everything else he could disassemble to donate to other vehicles.  Thus, she became a "vehicle" donor who gave life to other cars before she went to that great "junkyard on Earth."

Sadly, Grandpa passed away the following winter, but we still have the pictures and memories that continue to bring us smiles and laughter.

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IMPORTANT TAX RETURN INFORMATION


State, National, & World News    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 02-26-2024, 02:42 AM

   

Davette Lynne Hrabak, CPA discusses rates, exemptions, and limits; education grants; standard deductions; and Health Savings Accounts.  Each section is in bold for ease of finding the information you may need.

For a free, no obligation quote, call Davette at 715-339-6638.  Her office is located between the lion statues at 164 South Lake Avenue in Phillips.

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By:  Davette Lynne Hrabak, CPA, CFE, CBM, ATA, ATP, ABA, ECS, CGMA
“When it comes to taxes, save the lion’s share; enter between the lions to get this special care.”
https://www.DavetteLynneHrabak.com 

2023 TAX YEAR QUICK TAX FACTS - RATES, EXEMPTIONS, AND LIMITS

Each year the IRS releases and revises various rates, exemptions, and limits, some of which are listed below:

Standard mileage rates are available to taxpayers in certain situations.  The current rates for the filing of your 2023 income tax return are as follows:

Business Standard Mileage Rate:  65.5 cents per mile

Medical and Moving Standard Mileage Rate:  22 cents per mile

Charitable Standard Mileage Rate:  14 cents per mile

Gift Tax Annual Exclusion:  $17,000

Each person’s tax situation is unique.  Sometimes the only deduction available is a standard rate and other times the taxpayer has an option to choose to use standard rates or actual amounts.  The circumstances of which is most appropriate to use must be looked at on a case-by-case basis for each taxpayer; rarely are any two taxpayers’ situations identical.

2023 STUDENT EDUCATIONAL GRANTS CAN BE TAXABLE

Many taxpayers are surprised to learn that some of the money that their children receive from scholarships and grants may be taxable.

It is true that there is a Scholarship and Fellowship Exclusion; however, this is only a partial exclusion based on how the funds are used, and, in order to qualify for that exclusion, the person must be a degree candidate.  The degree candidate must also be a primary or secondary school student, a college undergraduate or graduate student, or a part-time or full-time student at an accredited educational institution that provides a program that is acceptable for full credit towards a bachelor’s or higher degree.  The program that the school offers must be a program of training to prepare students for gainful employment in a recognized occupation.

If the person is not a degree candidate, all amounts received are generally taxable.

If the person is a degree candidate, then only amounts used on tuition fees, books, supplies, and equipment are tax-free.  Any amounts spent on room & board and travel are taxable.  This, at times, causes some confusion among many taxpayers and can result in some students inadvertently doing their tax returns incorrectly.

Scholarships and fellowships include items such as Pell Grants and other Title IV Grants that are need-based education grants.

There are, however, additional exceptions to this, including if the scholarship or grant was provided by a tribe subject to the Tribal General Welfare Act.


STANDARD DEDUCTIONS

Almost every year there are changes to the amounts for the standard deduction.  As you probably know, if you do not itemize a tax return, you are entitled to take a standard deduction.  If you are able to itemize, and if your itemized deduction is higher than your standard deduction, then you take your itemized deduction.

The standard deductions for this year are:
Married Filing Joint or Qualified Widow or Widower Filing Status:  $27,700
Single Filing Status:  $13,850
Head of Household Filing Status:  $20,800
Married Filing Separately Filing Status:  $13,850
Dependent Filing Status:  $1,250


HEALTH SAVINGS ACCOUNTS (HSAs)

You may have heard about Health Savings Accounts.  They are a savings account that is set up and used exclusively for paying for qualified medical expenses for the account beneficiary and/or dependents and/or spouse of the beneficiary.

They are a valuable tool to help assist in the costs of individual and family health care.

If you qualify for a Health Savings Account, there are differences in limitations based on self-only or family coverage.

For 2023, some of the limitation cut-offs are as follows:

For Self-only Coverage:
Contribution (deduction) limit:  $3,850
Plan minimum deductible:  $1,500
Plan out-of-pocket limit:  $7,500

For Family Coverage:
Contribution (deduction) limit:  $7,750
Plan minimum deductible:  $3,000
Plan out-of-pocket limit:  $15,000

There is an annual contribution amount increase of $1,000 for anyone who is age 55 or older.

Remember, if you have already filed but realize that you could have had a credit or deduction that you missed, it is not too late; you can always amend your return.  If you need more information or believe you could qualify for them, I would be happy to give you a free quote on the preparation of your return.

When the right tax and financial advice is essential, talk to someone with an unmatched level of knowledge, experience, and education.  A CPA understands the business of taxes and finance and can provide trusted advice and services during the tax season and throughout the calendar year.

You can share this article on Facebook at this link.

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Davette Lynne Hrabak, CPA, located at 164 South Lake Avenue in Phillips, specializes in tax return preparation, business start-up services, consulting, bookkeeping, payroll, and all your accounting needs.  Call 715-339-6638 or visit Davette's website.  Follow her Facebook page.


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STUDENT REPORTED POSSIBLE FIREARM ON SCHOOL BUS; POLICE RESPOND


News: Phillips, Kennan, and Catawba    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 02-25-2024, 03:31 AM

   

Police from Price County and the City of Phillips responded to a school bus on Friday, February 23, 2024 on South Argyle Avenue.

After school, some students were on the bus on their way to a birthday party.  One of the children was asked what he brought for a gift.  The child said he brought a Nerf gun and a game.  However, he only said "gun" and not "Nerf gun."  Another student heard the word "gun" and reported it to the bus driver.

Police were notified that a student on the bus may have a firearm, so they responded to the scene.  According to Lieutenant Blaine Peterson, "The response that law enforcement conducted was that of an unknown lethal threat on the bus.  The item that was recovered was not a firearm but a Nerf toy gun.  No arrests or referrals will be done."

You can share this article on Facebook from this link.

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PHILLIPS: HAYDEN SOKOLOWSKI AND ILIANA WINTER NAMED STUDENTS OF THE QUARTER


News: Phillips, Kennan, and Catawba    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 02-22-2024, 03:05 PM

   
Submitted photos.

Iliana Winter and Hayden Sokolowski, both seniors, were named Students of the Quarter at Phillips High School.

Hayden Sokolowski is the son of Jim and Michelle Sokolowski. Hayden is in FBLA, mock trial, esports, Northwoods Players, cross country, and track & field.

Hayden stated his favorite school memory is "playing in the WCBA All-State Band in January, the best concert of my life.”

When asked where he sees himself in the future, Hayden replied, “I see myself as some sort of Computer Programmer.”

Iliana Winter is the daughter of Jill Kytonen.  Iliana is in volleyball, both in school and club (Medford Storm); FBLA; and student council.  She manages the girls' varsity basketball team, plays softball, is the senior class vice president, and is on Student Council, plus she is a radio reporter.

Iliana says her favorite part of high school is “Homecoming because of all the school spirit and fun activities; it's the first thing to look forward to when you start school.  There are so many fun activities like dressing up, the pep assembly, the parade, the Friday night Football game, the bonfire, and, of course, the dance on Saturday."

Iliana spoke of her plans for next year, stating, “I plan to attend UW-River Falls next year to major in communications and journalism.”

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GET YOUR FREE NEWS SUBSCRIPTION.  Send an e-mail with "Subscribe" on the subject line to contact@mypricecounty.com to receive your free news subscription.  Stay up to date on news, events, jobs, and more in Price County and surrounding areas.  You will currently receive about one or two e-mails per month.  We never sell or give away your e-mail address or personal information.


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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT THE RETIREMENT SAVER’S CREDIT AND YOUR TAX RETURN


State, National, & World News    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 02-20-2024, 04:02 AM

By:  Davette Lynne Hrabak, CPA, CFE, CBM, ATA, ATP, ABA, ECS, CGMA, https://www.DavetteLynneHrabak.com
“When it comes to taxes, save the lion’s share; enter between the lions to get this special care.”

   
 
Whether you are saving for retirement or retired, there is important information you need to know for the preparation of your taxes.

2023 TAX YEAR RETIREMENT SAVER’S CREDIT

The Retirement Saver’s Credit is available in 2023 to various taxpayers who fit into the proper criteria and who make eligible contributions.  It is a non-refundable credit which allows for a taxpayer to receive a non-refundable credit of up to $2,000 for a Married Filing Jointly Tax Status and up to $1,000 for a Single or other filing Tax Filing Status.

Many taxpayers are surprised to learn that they have contributions that count for this credit.

Qualifying taxpayers must be at least 18 years old by the end of the year, not be claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s tax return, and cannot be a full-time student.

The Retirement Saver’s Credit is also subject to phase-outs, which vary depending on a taxpayer’s filing status and Adjusted Gross Income amounts.  If a taxpayer lands in the proper range, then the taxpayer would be eligible to receive from 10 to 50 percent of their contributions back up to a maximum allowed by their filing status.

There are also rules on eligible contributions and some reductions of some eligible contributions, but, overall, many taxpayers are able to use this credit.

Remember, if you have already filed but realize that you could have had a credit or deduction that you missed, it is not too late; you can always amend your return.  If you need more information or believe you could qualify for them, I would be happy to give you a free quote on the preparation of your return.

When the right tax and financial advice is essential, talk to someone with an unmatched level of knowledge, experience, and education.  A CPA understands the business of taxes and finance and can provide trusted advice and services during the tax season and throughout the calendar year.

For a free, no obligation quote, call Davette at 715-339-6638.  Her office is located between the lion statues at 164 South Lake Avenue in Phillips.


2023 TAX YEAR TIP:  QUICK RETIREMENT TAX FACTS

Each year the IRS releases and revises various limits for various retirement type accounts, some of which are listed below:

IRA Contribution Limits:
Under Age 50:  $6,500
Age 50 or Older:  $7,500

Elective Deferral Limits On:

Simple IRA Plan:
Under Age 50:  $15,500
Age 50 or Older:  $19,000

401(K), 403(B), and 457 Plans:
Under Age 50:  $22,500
Age 50 or Older:  $30,000

Profit-Sharing Plan/SEP:
Contribution Limit:  $66,000
Compensation Limit:  $330,000 (for computing employer contributions)

Each person’s tax situation is unique.  There are a variety of plans out there; the above list is not all inclusive but provides some information on some of the most common ones.  Each person’s tax situation must be looked at on a case-by-case basis for each taxpayer; rarely are any two taxpayers’ situations identical.

For a free, no obligation quote, call Davette at 715-339-6638.  Her office is located between the lion statues at 164 South Lake Avenue in Phillips.

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