My Northern Wisconsin

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


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LOST DOG: OWNER REQUESTING HELP FINDING DOG - UPDATED (FOUND)


News: Phillips, Kennan, and Catawba    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 09-05-2024, 06:10 PM

UPDATE ON SEPTEMBER 10, 2024 - PIRATE HAS BEEN FOUND AND RETURNED TO HIS OWNER.

Gas station employees on the north end of Phillips saw the dog outside and contacted the Price County Sheriff's Office.  According to Pirate's owner, "He was gone for five days.  We looked everywhere including the roads behind the gas station.  When we picked him up, his collar and bandana were gone."

Published September 5, 2024

Ani Azalea said her dog, Pirate, who was wearing a black collar and a black bandana with skulls on it, got lost two days ago on Tuesday, September 3, 2024 in Forward Park in Phillips.  Forward Park is near the bus garage.  Ani says that Pirate usually responds to his name or treats.  If anyone has seen Pirate or has any information on Pirate's whereabouts, please contact the owners at 619-396-0722 or 513-373-5666, or contact the Price County Humane Officer.

   


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TRINITY PESKO CROWNED MISS CZECH-SLOVAK US 2024-2025 - UPDATED 8/25/24


News: Phillips, Kennan, and Catawba    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 08-22-2024, 01:51 PM

   
Photo by:  Julia Ourecky Photography

Never has Wisconsin, let alone the small town of Phillips, had a national Czech-Slovak queen until Trinity Pesko won the title on August 4, 2024.

Before that happened, however, Trinity was crowned the Miss Czech-Slovak Wisconsin State Queen at the Czech-Slovak Festival in Phillips, Wisconsin in June 2023.

She had a year filled with attending events and learning more about her heritage.  Plus, she had to prepare for the Miss Czech-Slovak US competition.

Trinity shared, "A lot of the preparation I did for the national pageant was historical research.  Both in the private interview and on-stage question portions of the competition, the contestants do not get to see the questions beforehand.  Generally, however, we know that the topics of many of the questions are kroje-based (folk dress), personality-based, or history-based.  I did a lot of studying and created many flash card sets on famous events and people in Czech and Slovak history.  I was also convinced that because this year was an Olympics year, there would be questions about the Czech/Slovak Republics’ participation in the Olympics, but that was never asked.  Besides preparing for any and all questions the judges might ask me, I also did a lot of work on my kroj.  Throughout my year as Miss Czech-Slovak Wisconsin, I learned a lot about the folk dress of Czechia and Slovakia, so in anticipation for nationals, I wanted to make some upgrades to my kroj to make it more accurate.  This included designing/sewing an entire new vest with my mom, buying new boots, adding more embroidery on my apron, and even changing my hairstyle, as different hair styles and hair accessories show a woman’s marital status."  Trinity explained that different regions have different headpieces, but a hair braid with a simple ribbon denotes that a young woman is unmarried in the Trnavský Region.  Other regions use flower crowns, giant bows, velvet headbands, or similar accessories.  She added, "In most regions, a large flower crown with ribbons and sequins is used for weddings, a small white cap is used for married women, and a head scarf is used for widows."

Also in preparation, Trinity attended Czech Days in Wilber, Nebraska in 2023 to get a feel for the event in which she would participate in 2024.  Wilber is a small town with a large number of residents of Czech descent who take great pride in their heritage.  For this reason, Wilber was named the official Czech Capital of the USA in 1987 by President Reagan.  The pageant is part of Wilber Czech Days, an annual event in August.

"Wilber, a town with about the population of Phillips, is overrun every year with festival goers across the country," Trinity explained.  "To give you an idea of how big this festival is, they shut down Main Street and several blocks of the side streets for pedestrian foot traffic, and they hold three separate parades over the four days, each which last about an hour or more.  The pageant is held at the Wilber Outdoor Theater, a theater that was built specifically to hold the Miss Czech-Slovak US Pageant.  In fact, it is only open during the weekend of Czech Days."

The queen competition spans over the course of two days with Saturday morning containing a private interview with the judges, Saturday night being on-stage questions and kroj modeling, and Sunday night showcasing talents and the crowning of the national queen.  Trinity participated in those events in August 2024.

"The Miss Czech-Slovak US Pageant is not a beauty pageant but a heritage pageant," Trinity explained.  "This means we are not judged on how we look but our thoughts, feelings, poise, talent, and contributions to our heritage.  The competition is broken down into four components:  private interview, on-stage questions, kroj modeling, and talent.  Each are worth 25% of our total score.  The private interview is a nine-minute sit-down panel-style interview with the judges. The first three questions are the same for all the contestants, and then the judges are allowed to ask you more personal questions based on your application.  The on-stage question category features three questions:  one personality-based, one application-based, and one kroje-based.  The application-based question is written specifically for each contestant, while the personality- and kroje-based questions are drawn out of a hat.  For the kroje modeling category, we are judged on poise, knowledge of our kroj, accuracy of our kroj, and how our kroj connects with our family’s story.  My mom and I made my kroj, so we tried to make it as accurate as possible, but we were able to add a lot of personalized details that honored my family.  The talent category can be just about anything of our choosing, so l chose to do a vocal solo."  Toni Brendel, the founder of the Miss Czech-Slovak Wisconsin pageant gave Trinity the sheet music for the song she performed.  Trinity said she has been a singer for much of her lifetime, and she will be the new K-12 music teacher in the School District of Phillips this fall, so she wanted to showcase her musical interest and talent.

There was some time during Czech Days that did not involve events in the queen competition.  Trinity said during those times, the group of ladies were in parades, visited with residents at the Wilber Care Center, introduced themselves on the main bandstand, and did a lot of community outreach.  "It was an exhausting, but extremely rewarding, weekend," Trinity stated.

It became the most rewarding to Trinity when she was named the national queen.  While she was waiting to hear the names, she said adrenaline was pumping through her body.  "There I was, standing on stage with a fixed smile on my face, holding hands with the other girls as we were waiting for the winners of each of the different awards to be called, each award bigger than the last.  The anticipation was building; in fact, I almost started crying before they called my name just from the suspense!  I had to take several deep breaths to keep myself calm.  Before they announced second runner-up, first runner-up, and queen, I had already won the Oratory Award, the Kroj Family Story Award, The Sokol Award, and the Grand Talent Award, so I was feeling extremely blessed already.  Each time they called my name I felt more honored and appreciative than the last.  When second runner-up was called and first runner-up was called, I was hopeful but still nervous nonetheless.  Miss Czech-Slovak Iowa, who was standing next to me, turned to me and whispered, 'You’ve got this.'  It wasn’t until the emcee, however, said, “For the first time in history....,” that I knew that I had won, as I knew that Wisconsin had never had a national queen before while the other states competing had.  Nonetheless, I was shocked, I was crying, I was laughing, and at the same time it still hadn’t quite sunk in yet."

(Article continues after photos.)

   
Photo by:  Julia Ourecky Photography

   
Photo by:  Julia Ourecky Photography

   
Photo by:  Julia Ourecky Photography

Toni Brendel is proud that Trinity won the national title.  "We are so proud, and I knew that she stood a good chance of winning....She is an extraordinary young woman and had done a remarkable job at representing our city and county and state, all around the state.  It just happened that she was in a position to do so, and she did it!  I am very excited for her."

As the current Miss Czech-Slovak US queen, Trinity will be busy.  "I will have many events to attend, not just in Wisconsin but across the country!  Luckily, the Miss Czech-Slovak US organization is very accommodating and gives each queen a lot of freedom to decide what events she wants to attend depending on where she lives, her schedule, etc.  My first out-of-state event will be on Labor Day weekend in Texas, where I will be attending Westfest, a Czech heritage festival in the town of West, Texas."

While Trinity will be kept busy with a year of appearances at events, Trinity has no current plans to enter other pageants.  "Everyone keeps asking me if I will run for Miss America or Miss USA next, but I am quite content with my current title.  This is the biggest honor I could hope to have received.  I love this pageant system because of its emphasis on culture, family, and heritage preservation.  While I don’t plan on running for any other queen titles soon, I would love to take on a leadership role in the Miss Czech Slovak US or Miss Czech-Slovak WI organization so I can help other young women who are passionate about their heritage get involved in this life-changing opportunity," Trinity concluded.

   
Photo by:  Julia Ourecky Photography

This article can be shared on Facebook from this link.

[Image: lynnebohn.jpg]
Written by:  Lynne Bohn


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AUGUST 2024 PRIMARY RESULTS - UPDATED 8/14/24


News: Countywide    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 08-13-2024, 09:28 PM

   

The following results are votes from residents in the county, which has 8,960 registered voters of the 11,548 eligible voters.  The number of actual voters in this election was 4,114.  36% of eligible voters voted.

Votes were received in the Democratic Party and Republican Party primaries in Price County.  The Constitution Party, Libertarian Party, and Wisconsin Green Party did not receive any votes in Price County.

* denotes the primary winner.


DEMOCRATIC PARTY PRIMARY

United States Senator

Tammy Baldwin - Price County:  1,126; Statewide:  627,120*

Representative in Congress, District 7

Kyle Kilbourn - Price County:  596; Statewide:  32,920*
Elsa Rae Duranceau - Price County:  383; Statewide:  23,785

Representative to the Assembly, District 68

Richard Pulcher - Price County:  919*

Register of Deeds

Sylvia Kerner:  935*


REPUBLICAN PARTY PRIMARY

United States Senator

Eric Hovde - Price County:  1,962; Statewide:  475,857*
Charles Barman - Price County:  263; Statewide:  40,986
Rejani Raveendran - Price County:  161; Statewide:  34,587

Representative in Congress, District 7

Tom Tiffany - Price County:  2,128; Statewide:  78,509*

Representative to the Assembly, District 68

Rob Summerfield - Price County:  1,371; Statewide:  5,899*
Cliff Taylor - Price County:  870; Statewide:  3,381

(Article continues after promotional message.)


[Image: kenscarpet.jpg]
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County Clerk

Meredith Hueckman:  746*
Amy Casey:  706
Amy Walker:  551
Lynn Redfall:  412
Shelby Kosmer:  228

Treasurer

Renee Leinfelder:  1,255*
Marina Miller:  1,165

State Referendum #1

No - Price County:  1,817; Statewide:  703,607*
Yes - Price County:  1,895; Statewide:  521,191

State Referendum #2

No - Price County:  1,741; Statewide:  705,767*
Yes - Price County: 1,903; Statewide:  520,946


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OBITUARY: JOHN KUCABA


Announcements    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 08-04-2024, 09:48 PM

   

John Kucaba, 81, of Phillips, passed away at Marshfield Medical Center in Marshfield, Wisconsin on Thursday, August 1, 2024.

John was born to Henry and Antonia (Perger) on April 6, 1943 in Phillips, Wisconsin.

He worked at Marquip for a few years before going back to his dream of carpentry.  He built many homes over the years.  He truly enjoyed being a carpenter and took great pride in his work.

When he was not working, he loved to hunt with his family, play baseball, camp, and golf.

He lived in Arizona in the winter months and came home to Northern Wisconsin in the summer.  His family will fondly remember him as a devoted husband, wonderful father, and mentor.

He is survived by his loving wife of 60 years, Helynn; children, Kraig and Karri; brother, Ron Kucaba; sisters, Joann Plein, Lynda Janos, and Bonnie (Ken) Schlote; and many nieces and nephews.

He is preceded in death by his parents and brother-in-law, Bob Plein.

Per his wishes, there will not be a formal service.

UPDATE ON 9-8-2024:  There will be a celebration of life for John on Saturday, October 5, 2024 from noon to 3 p.m. in Phillips, Wisconsin at the VFW Hall.

This article can be shared on Facebook from this link.


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CASE DISMISSED:  SHERIFF SCHMIDT AND BRYLSKI WILL NOT FACE OFF IN COURT - UPDATED


News: Countywide    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 08-04-2024, 02:44 AM

   

A jury trial was scheduled for November 4th through the 7th, 2024 in the Price County Courthouse for the intentional tort (libel) case Sheriff Brian Schmidt filed against John Brylski on October 6, 2022, one month before the election.  Sheriff Schmidt was on the ballot in that election, running for Price County sheriff, and John Brylski was a write-in candidate for the same position.

According to CCAP, many exhibits were submitted, subpoenas were granted, and many motions were filed in the proceeding.  On June 25, 2024, the court ordered depositions for both Brian Schmidt and John Brylski, which were to occur on July 25, 2024.

In addition, in a separate court proceeding, on July 17, 2024, John Brylski filed a Petition for Writ of Mandamus against the Price County Sheriff's Office and Brian Schmidt.  The Wisconsin Department of Justice explains the use of a Writ of Mandamus, stating, "The Wisconsin Public Records Law provides several courses of action for a requester dissatisfied with an authority’s response, or lack of response, to a public records request.  An action for mandamus, which asks a court to order the release of requested records, is available if an authority denies an entire request or part of a request or delays granting access to a requested record."  That case was closed on July 29, 2024.

On July 31, 2024, the libel case against John Brylski was "dismissed by court or dismissed by court order," and there will not be a jury trial or any further proceedings in this court case.

This article can be shared on Facebook from this link.


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PRICE COUNTY GARAGE SALE EVENT TO BE HELD ON AUGUST 15-18, 2024 - UPDATED 8-13-24


News: Countywide    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 08-04-2024, 02:35 AM

   

UPDATE:  The list has been published at https://www.MyPriceCounty.com/sales.html 

After four successful community-wide garage sale events in Phillips over the past four years, there will be a county-wide garage sale event on August 15, 16, 17, & 18, 2024.

As long as you have an address in Price County (Phillips, Park Falls, Prentice, Ogema, Kennan, Catawba, Fifield, southern Butternut, etc.), you can list your garage sale.  To get your garage sale listed for free, send an e-mail to contact@MyPriceCounty.com with “Garage Sale” in the subject line.  Include your first and last name, full address of your garage sale location, the days (Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and/or Sunday) and the times you set for your garage sale, along with a short list (25 words or less) of some of the items that will be at your garage sale.  Alternatively, you can also contact Lynne Bohn at 715-339-6677 to get on the list or to ask any questions about the event.  The deadline for submitting your garage sale is Monday, August 12, 2024 at noon.

The garage sale list will be available by the morning of August 15, 2024 for thrift shoppers.  To get the list of garage sales, visit https://www.mypricecounty.com/sales.html.

You can also follow the Facebook event page at this link.


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MEREDITH HUECKMAN TALKS ABOUT HER CANDIDACY FOR PRICE COUNTY CLERK


News: Countywide    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 08-04-2024, 01:50 AM

   
Submitted photo.

Election day is Tuesday, August 13, 2024.  Meredith Hueckman is one of five candidates running for Price County Clerk.  To help voters make an informed voting decision, Meredith shared information about her candidacy.  For additional information, visit the Facebook page, Meredith Hueckman for Price County Clerk.

What is your background?  (Education, family, work, etc.)

I've been a Price County resident for 19 years, and I'm raising my family here.  I’ve held professional and elected positions in management, government, customer service, and entrepreneurship.  I'm a small business owner for Hueckman Auctions and Tamarack Shack Antiques.  In 2023, I was elected to the Phillips School Board, and I have 5 years of service on the Phillips Library Board.  Locally, I’ve researched and written government articles for The-Bee.  I have a bachelor’s degree in English literature from University of Wisconsin.  I love volunteering in my community and church.

What prompted you to run for county clerk?

I’ve always enjoyed using any skills I may have to serve my community.  This is my dream job.  As an English Literature major, I love writing articles and drafting documents.  I’m on the Phillips School Board Policy Committee, and I do enjoy reviewing and drafting policy.  The written word is powerful and interesting, and so is the government.  I appreciate the stories behind meetings and the way in which local government can make a positive impact on Price County residents’ lives.  I value all local voices and opinions.  If you elect me as your County Clerk, I will listen to what you have to say and provide you with the information for which you’re looking.

What is your definition of an excellent county clerk?

I will work diligently to excel in written and verbal communication with administration; county supervisors; county departments; town and city clerks; and very importantly, Price County residents.  I’ll strive to run efficient and organized elections.  I value teamwork with all clerks in the county, and I believe we can learn a lot from each other.  Regular, scheduled clerk meetings and training is invaluable and a good way to evaluate our clerking service to ensure we’re doing a good job.  When you walk through our doors, I’ll make sure you receive good customer service from knowledgeable staff.  All of these things are important and would prove that a county clerk is truly excellent.

What makes you qualified for this elected position?

I’m well-rounded because I’ve worked in and around local government for years, but I’ve also worked in the private sector as a corporate manager and small business owner.  My hands-on experience as a board member, manager, reporter, and small business owner has given me a broad knowledge base of budgets, policies, and procedures.  I’m experienced at interpreting regulations and ensuring rules of law are followed.  I’m well-versed in open records laws, Robert's Rules of Order, and problem solving.  I’ve written numerous meeting summaries and taken minutes for numerous government meetings.  I have participated as a board member as well.  I am a creative thinker who likes to think outside the box and am a people person.

How would you prioritize your workload if elected? 

If you elect me as your county clerk, I will schedule my weeks, months, and years in advance and additional events as they appear.  Residents visiting the clerk’s office are the priority and should be helped promptly by knowledgeable staff.  Holding regular, convenient office hours to serve the public is important.  Running elections is top priority during election season.  Likewise, running organized and efficient monthly county board meetings is important, and I will prepare concise and transparent agendas; compile reports and data; and provide timely board packets.  Additionally, I’ll provide organized information, calendars with important dates, newsletters, and keep the lines of communication open.

Is there anything else you would like to share with the voting public?

As your county clerk, I’ll work hard to serve my community with integrity by building relationships through transparency and respect.  I value hard work and honesty. 

Please vote August 13th for Meredith Hueckman for County Clerk.

   

Authorized and paid for by Meredith Hueckman for Price County Clerk


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GREG DENZINE AND KAREN KERNER, DEER CREEK ANGUS, LLC, RECEIVE AWARD


News: Phillips, Kennan, and Catawba    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 08-01-2024, 03:16 AM

   
Submitted photo.

The Wisconsin Cattlemen’s Association held the 2024 Summer Tour in Eastern Wisconsin and recognized Wisconsin farmers' dedication to excellence in the beef industry.

The awards included Friends of Cattlemen, Environmental Stewardship, Cattleman of the Year, and Beef Quality Assurance.

Greg Denzine and Karen Kerner were nominated for one of the awards, in competition with other farmers.  Greg and Karen received the Beef Quality Assurance Award.  Since 1994, they have owned and operated Deer Creek Angus, LLC in Phillips.

"It's a huge honor," Karen said.  "Our hard work and dedication to our animals and our farm shows through the quality of the animals that we sell.  Every day we try do do the right thing."

According to the Wisconsin Cattlemen's Association, Greg and Karen "take great pride in managing their livestock in a stress-free environment where they raise and harvest all their own forage.  They select for genetic traits that lead to high quality beef, which they sell across the state.  In recent years, they have become extremely involved with Taylor County Extension and have helped host multiple educational events and are an excellent, transparent advocate for the beef industry."

To view the quality products offered by Deer Creek Angus, LLC, visit their website and Facebook page.  You can reach the farm store by phone at 715-550-6156.

This article can be shared on Facebook at this link.


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AMY WALKER TALKS ABOUT HER CANDIDACY FOR PRICE COUNTY CLERK


News: Countywide    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 08-01-2024, 02:47 AM

   
Submitted photo.

Election day is Tuesday, August 13, 2024.  Amy Walker is one of five candidates running for Price County Clerk.  To help voters make an informed voting decision, Amy shared information about her candidacy.

What is your background (education, family, work, etc.)?

I grew up in Janesville, WI, where I embarked on Criminal Justice path taking Police Science courses while working at the Rock County Jail before transitioning over to the 911 center a year later.  I spent 8 years dispatching for police/fire/EMS agencies in Rock County before my calling to be more hands-on with the health and safety of my community led me to pursue a nursing career.  I obtained my A.A.S from UW-Rock County before attending UW-Oshkosh School of Nursing.  I worked as a nurse for over 10 years, managing a dementia unit, becoming a Specialty Clinics Float at the VA in Madison, and working as a travel nurse before returning to my roots in county government.  My current full-time position is as the Deputy Clerk of Courts-Fiscal with the Price County Clerk of Courts office, where I leverage my skills in organization, prioritization, customer service, and adherence to State statutes daily.

What prompted you to run for the county clerk position?

I chose to run for county clerk out of a deep-seated commitment and dedication to public service, the encouragement and support of colleagues, and the opportunity presented by Jean Gottwald's decision not to run in the 2024 election.  With more than two decades of experience as a dispatcher, nurse, and currently as Deputy Clerk of Courts-Fiscal, I have cultivated essential skills in prioritization, meeting deadlines, organization, attention to detail, and providing exceptional customer service.  These competencies are integral to the role of county clerk, which involves adherence to state statutes and regulations, and I am well-prepared to handle these responsibilities effectively.

The overwhelming support from my community reinforced my conviction that stepping into this role was the right choice.  Throughout my career, I have prioritized building genuine relationships founded on mutual respect and trust.  Moving forward, I am committed to earning and maintaining that respect and trust as County Clerk.  This responsibility is one I take seriously, and I am dedicated to serving our community with integrity, diligence, and a deep sense of purpose.

What is your definition of an excellent county clerk?

An excellent county clerk is a dedicated public servant who upholds integrity, transparency, and efficiency in all aspects of their role.  They possess thorough knowledge of local government operations and legal requirements, ensuring accurate record-keeping and adherence to regulations.  Exceptional organizational skills enable them to manage complex administrative tasks effectively, prioritize citizen needs, and provide responsive customer service.  A strong leader, they foster collaboration among communities and stakeholders, promoting a positive, productive environment and innovation in service delivery.  They engage actively with the community, listening to concerns and providing training for municipal clerks.  Above all, an excellent county clerk demonstrates unwavering commitment to ethical conduct, continuous improvement, and accountable stewardship of public resources, striving to enhance the quality of governance and public trust in their office.

What makes you qualified for this position?

As a current, full-time employee of Price County with a diverse background spanning healthcare, public safety, and county government, I offer a comprehensive skill set that uniquely qualifies me for the position of county clerk.  Throughout my career, I have cultivated a solid reputation for delivering excellent customer service and building strong relationships within our community and with local agencies.  My experience in roles such as nurse, public safety dispatcher, and Deputy Clerk of Courts-Fiscal has equipped me with a deep understanding of public service and community welfare.

I am adept at navigating complex legal frameworks governed by state statutes and federal regulations, ensuring meticulous adherence to laws while managing administrative tasks efficiently.  My strengths in prioritization, clear communication, and fostering collaboration are essential for the county clerk role, where transparency and effective governance are paramount.  With a proven track record of integrity and dedication, I am prepared to uphold the responsibilities of County Clerk with diligence and professionalism, serving our community effectively and ethically.

How would you prioritize your workload if elected?

If elected as County Clerk, I would prioritize my workload with a meticulous approach and dedication to excellence, drawing from my experience in high-stakes environments.  I would prioritize tasks based on urgency and importance, focusing on critical deadlines such as elections, state-mandated reports and essential administrative duties.  Using checklists and calendar reminders, I would ensure systematic completion of all tasks, aiming to finish ahead of schedule for flexibility in handling unexpected challenges.  With a career devoted to public service, I value availability and would be willing to work beyond regular hours to meet community and county needs.  In summary, my approach as County Clerk would emphasize rigorous prioritization, effective time management, proactive preparation, and steadfast commitment to serving with integrity and diligence, ensuring efficient and responsive governance for our community.

Is there anything else you would like to share with the voting public?

I would like to express my sincere gratitude for the overwhelming support and encouragement I have received from the community during my campaign for County Clerk.  My commitment to public service is deeply rooted in a lifelong dedication to the well-being and safety of our communities.  Moving to Price County with my boyfriend of 7 years, Brian, has been a transformative experience, and we have been warmly welcomed into this community that we now proudly call home.

Brian's 23 ½ years of military service and our shared values of service to country and community have shaped our lives profoundly.  While we prefer to serve quietly, the support we have received in my candidacy has been truly humbling.  Price County's natural beauty and peaceful surroundings captured our hearts, and we cherish our time fishing, kayaking, and exploring the Northwoods.

If entrusted with the role of County Clerk, I promise to maintain integrity, diligence, and a strong commitment to serving every member of our community.  Together, let's continue to make Price County a wonderful place to live, work, and thrive.  Thank you for your support.

   

Authorized and paid for by Amy Walker for Price County Clerk

This article can be shared on Facebook at this link.


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MARINA MILLER TALKS ABOUT HER CANDIDACY FOR PRICE COUNTY TREASURER


News: Countywide    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 08-01-2024, 02:12 AM

   
Submitted photo.

Election day is Tuesday, August 13, 2024.  Marina Miller is one of two candidates running for Price County Treasurer.  To help voters make an informed voting decision, Marina shared information about her candidacy.

What is your background (education, family, work, etc.)?

My name is Marina Miller, and I am running for Price County Treasurer.  I live in the Township of Georgetown with my husband, Steve, and our teenage daughter, Lily.  A quick look into my background and you won't find any gaps in my work history, but you will find consistency and dedication to long-term employment.

Since high school graduation in 1988, I have had four full-time jobs. Eleven years at a drill factory were followed by service as a corrections officer for just shy of 19 years.  Starting at Vilas and ending in Price County, I am well-versed in public service.

In late 2018, the Deputy County Treasurer position became available.  For the first time in my life, I wasn't working shiftwork and was grateful for the opportunity.  I am currently looking forward to celebrating 20 years as a Price County employee in January of 2025.

What prompted you to run for the county treasurer position?

This October will be my 6th year working as the Deputy County Treasurer.  I believe I have the background and experience to successfully run this office much as it has been for the past 35 years by our current county treasurer, Lynn Neeck.

This just seems like the next logical step in my county government career, and I am up for the challenge that the new structure of the county offices will bring us.  With the combining of the county clerk and treasurer staff into one office, I am prepared to step into the role of Treasurer in January to ensure the smoothest transition possible.

What is your definition of an excellent county treasurer?

I believe an excellent county treasurer is one that not only is capable of working well with other municipal, county, and state government officials, but also communicates effectively with the taxpayers of Price County.

The staff of the treasurer's office has contact with the public each and every day, whether it be via telephone, email, or in-person here at the office.  Our main duty is to collect property taxes.  While the treasurer does not set the amount of taxes due, nor do we determine property assessment values, we are available to answer taxpayer questions the best we can.  We are able to provide contact information of local assessors, municipal board officials, and appropriate zoning offices when needed.

Furthermore, as the office that handles the revenues of all county departments, an excellent treasurer must keep accurate financial records and maintain the security of those records and funds.

What makes you qualified for this elected position?

As previously mentioned, I have held the position of the Deputy County Treasurer since October 2018.  I am extremely familiar with our tax collection software and property search Internet site.  I am also able to retrieve archived records that are no longer accessible with our current NOVUS computer program.

I not only participate in the county's routine audits, but I am responsible for the monthly bank reconciliations of the numerous financial institutions that hold the county's monetary assets.

I assist in receipting the county's revenues, including ACH deposits that come into our multiple bank accounts on a daily basis.  I also provide support to the county's Office of Administration with payroll withholding reporting and bi-weekly accounts payable distribution.

Additionally, I have been taking classes through the University of Wisconsin Green Bay every year since 2019 in an effort to boost my treasurer/clerk knowledge.

How would you prioritize your workload if elected?

Of all the duties for which the Treasurer's Office is responsible, I believe the needs of the taxpayers and collecting tax payments should be our highest priority.  Friendly customer service and professionalism should be both expected and provided.

Many days our office, which is currently staffed by only two people, can get bombarded with workload depending on the volume of incoming mail or telephone calls.  We take each day as it comes, carefully and meticulously recording tax payments received.  We conduct a weekly balance of our collections and do not always get to clock out at 4:30-5 p.m. with our other courthouse counterparts.  We stay until the job is completed, with accuracy being of utmost importance.

Is there anything else you would like to share with the voting public?

In conclusion, I would like to remind the voting public of 3 things:

#1:  Do your research on your candidates for both the clerk and treasurer elections.  Choose an individual who plans on being a working department head, present in the office and available to the public.

#2: PLEASE DON'T FORGET TO VOTE TUESDAY, AUGUST 13th!  The county primary election has never been more important, as any candidate moving on to the general election in November will do so unopposed.  The time to pick the candidate of your choosing is in August.

#3: Regardless of the outcome of the elections, voters can be confident Price County will continue to run in a smooth and efficient manner.  Whether as Treasurer or Deputy Treasurer, I will still be in the office to help guide the new staff to the best of my ability.

Authorized and paid for by Marina Miller for Price County Treasurer


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