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TAX CREDITS AND WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FOR THE 2023 TAX FILING YEAR


State, National, & World News    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 02-15-2024, 03:03 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.”

There are a number of credits and deductions available to taxpayers.  The following four sections, (with each heading in bold for ease of reference), focus on tax credits, including the information you should bring to your tax preparer, the Earned Income Credit (sometimes available even if there are no qualifying children), the Homestead Credit, and a summary of many of the credits that are available.

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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.

WHEN IN DOUBT, BRING IT IN AND BRING IT UP

There are so many credits and deductions available to taxpayers; many which individual or business taxpayers may not be aware of.  Each person’s individual tax situation is unique.  An individual that is lower income, someone who has kids, a person who owns and runs a business or a rental, or someone who has a combination of factors on their returns each have unique needs and unique deductions and credits.

It is virtually impossible for an individual to know what all is deductible and what is not on their own.  Therefore, when you bring your items in to be prepared, do not hesitate to talk to your CPA.  Mention any questions that you have and discuss what all has gone on in your year financially.  Many times these conversations open a person up to finding out that they have more deductions and credits available to them than they thought.  Remember there is no such thing as a stupid question.

Sometimes these helpful conversations can even lead to planning for the future.  For example, maybe you have an item that would have been deductible had you taken certain steps in documenting it.  The discussion would lead to letting you know what you can do for the following year to make next year’s taxes more bearable.

If you think you have an item that could be deductible, bring it up and ask about it.  The worst thing that could happen in bringing it up is that you find out it is not deductible.  The best thing is that you find out it is deductible or it sparks additional questions that could lead to something else that may help you in your own individual tax situation.

Bring your prior year return in with you so it can be looked over.  Having a thought-provoking discussion and the prior year return available can go far in making sure things have been done the way that they should have been, and, if an issue is found, the best possible course of action can be discussed.

In my practice, I have found new clients coming in that did not realize the deductions and credits that they have missed in prior years’ returns.  Many were surprised that some of them can still be claimed without amending a return, (for example, a missed Homestead Credit in a prior year), or via amending a return if needed for some items that can only be corrected in that manner.

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.


THE 2023 TAX YEAR EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT:  IN SOME CASES, EVEN IF THERE ARE NO QUALIFYING CHILDREN - INCREASED CREDIT AMOUNTS FOR 2023

The Earned Income Tax Credit is a credit that is available to many taxpayers.  It is based on a person’s income and the number of qualifying children that they have.  However, many people do not realize that if a taxpayer’s income level falls within certain parameters, then a person whom does not have any qualifying children can qualify for the credit if all criteria are met.

The Earned Income Tax Credit is a complicated credit that has many rules and adjustments to a taxpayer’s income but it is an often used credit and provides a refund to many people, even in cases where the taxpayer has not had any federal or state withholding taken out of their pay.  It is part of a group of credits which are called refundable credits, which basically means that a taxpayer can get back more than what they had withheld from their paychecks.

The maximum Earned Income Credit amounts available to taxpayers are dependent on whether or not the taxpayer has children, and, if they have children, the number of children they have.

If a taxpayer has no children, the maximum credit that they could qualify for is $600.
If a taxpayer has one child, the maximum credit that they could qualify for is $3,995.
If a taxpayer has two children, the maximum credit that they could qualify for is $6,604.
If a taxpayer has more than two children, the maximum credit that they could qualify for is $7,430.

Wisconsin has a Wisconsin Earned Income Credit which provides additional amounts based on individual taxpayer's facts and circumstances.

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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COULD YOU BE OVER-LOOKING THE HOMESTEAD CREDIT?

Wisconsin has a credit that is known as the Homestead Credit.  If you own a home or rent you may be eligible to obtain a refund even if you are not otherwise required to file a tax return.

Below is a basic summary of the qualifications for a taxpayer to be eligible for the Wisconsin Homestead Credit.  If you fall into the basic summary, then it would be in your best interest to look further into the credit to ensure you qualify for it, as, if you do, it is a very rewarding credit.

The Wisconsin Homestead Credit basic qualifications are as follows:

  • The property that you occupied and owned or rented, meaning your home, apartment, or other dwelling, must be subject to Wisconsin property taxes in 2023.  However, there is an exception to this if the property is owned by a municipal housing authority.  If the property is owned by a municipal housing authority, it would not be considered tax-exempt for the Homestead Credit if the authority makes payments to a town or city in which it is located.  If you are considering the Homestead Credit, and if you live in a place that would be considered public housing, you should check with the management of the facility to see if the property would qualify for the Homestead Credit.
  • You must be a legal resident of Wisconsin for the entire 2023 year.
  • By December 31, 2023 you must be 18 years of age or older.
  • Your household income, based on a formula used for the credit, must be less than $24,680 for 2023.
  • You must meet one of the following conditions:  A. During 2023, you or your spouse, if you were married, and live in the same household, must have positive earned income during the year.  B. You or your spouse, if you are married, and live in the same household are disabled.  C.  You or your spouse, if you are married, are at least 62 years of age or older by the end of 2023.
  • You cannot be claimed as a dependent for the year on someone else’s federal tax return.  However, there is an exception to this if you were 62 years of age or more on December 31, 2023.
  • You and your spouse, if married, will not claim the Farmland Preservation Credit for 2023 or the Veterans and Surviving Spouse’s Property Tax Credit based on your 2023 property taxes.
  • At the time of filing, you cannot live in a nursing home and receive Title XIX medical assistance.
  • You cannot file a claim on behalf of a person after his or her death.
  • You need to fully understand the definition of household for the Homestead Credit, as only one claim can be filed per their definition of household.
  • You cannot have received Wisconsin Works (W2) payments of any amount or county relief payments of $400 or more for each month of 2023.
  • If you did not get benefits for a whole year, you still may be able to apply, but your property taxes and rent will need to be reduced by one-twelfth for each of the months that you received those benefits.
  • The Homestead Credit is a very complicated credit which has a lot of modifications to the taxpayer’s income; however, it is also a credit that is very helpful to Wisconsin residents and one that is overlooked by many taxpayers who mistakenly think that just because they are not required to file a return, that they then should not file one.  The above listed qualifications are not all inclusive; please consult with a tax adviser for other qualifications required.

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.


ARE YOU GETTING ALL THE CREDITS YOU QUALIFY FOR?  A SUMMARY OF MOST TAX CREDITS FOR 2023

There are a variety of credits available for the 2023 tax year.  Of course, each has its own criteria and limitations.  However, if you qualify for any of them, it will make quite a difference on your tax return.  The following is a list of a number of the credits available and a brief summary of what they encompass.

Additional Child Credit:  It is for taxpayers who do not claim the full $2,000 tax credit for each child due to circumstances on their returns and who have one or more qualifying children and over $2,500 of earned income, or have three or more children that are qualifying.

Adoption Expense:  For a child who is adopted legally who is under age 18 or for the adoption of a person that is incapacitated or special needs (regardless of age).  However, this credit has a phase out for Modified Adjusted Gross Income from $239,230 to $279,230.

Child and Dependent Care Credit:  Expenses for care of dependent(s) who are under the age of 13 or incapacitated.  This credit is provided to assist a taxpayer to work or look for work.

Child Credit:  If a taxpayer has a qualifying child under the age of 17.  Phase-out ranges apply due to Adjusted Gross Income levels.

Earned Income:  Taxpayers with or without qualifying children who meet various income and other qualifications.

Clean Vehicle Credit:  If a taxpayer purchases a new 4-wheeled plug-in electric vehicle, which is manufactured primarily for the use on public streets, roads, and highways, then the taxpayer could receive up to a $7,500 credit.  This credit is subject to technical requirements and there is a phase-out range due to the taxpayer's modified adjusted gross income.

Commercial Clean Vehicle Credit:  If a business purchases certain types of clean vehicles or certain types of mobile machinery, which are subject to depreciation, the taxpayer could obtain a credit in the amount of $7,500 or $40,000.  The credit has various limitations.

Education, American Opportunity:  For qualified higher education expenses for up to four years of qualified higher education.

Education, Lifetime Learning:  For qualified post-secondary education and other courses that are to acquire or improve job skills.

Elderly or Disabled:  Low income taxpayers age 65 or older or permanently and totally disabled.

Energy Efficient Home Improvement:  Taxpayers who are homeowners and who decided to install certain energy saving improvements.  Some examples of the improvements are insulation, windows, heat pumps, and doors.  If a homeowner taxpayer has an energy audit performed, the cost of the energy audit also qualifies.

Federal Tax Paid on Fuels:  Fuels which are used on a farm for farming purposes or fuels for off-highway business use and other qualified uses.

Foreign Tax:  Income taxes that are paid to a foreign country or a U.S. possession on income that is subject to U.S. federal income tax.

Minimum Tax:  If you are subject to Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT), this is a credit allowed against regular tax for part of the AMT paid and it is attributable to deferral items.

Mortgage Interest:  A portion of interest expense paid by home buyers who have been issued a government mortgage credit certificate.

Other Dependents:  A credit allowed for qualifying dependents that are not qualifying children.

Premium Assistance:  This is for certain taxpayers who enroll or whose family member enrolls in a qualified health plan, which needs to be one that is offered in the Marketplace, meaning the health insurance exchange.

Previously-owned Clean Vehicle Credit:  This credit is for certain used vehicles that are purchased by a taxpayer, meaning that the original use of the vehicle must have started with a person that is not the current owner of the vehicle and the vehicle must meet the requirements for the Clean Vehicle Credit that is for new vehicles.  This credit is subject to ranges on modified adjusted gross income.

Residential Clean Energy:  This credit is for property that is installed on a taxpayer’s residence for items such as qualified solar electric, qualified solar water heating property, qualified small wind energy, or a qualified geothermal heat pump, fuel cell, and battery storage technology.

Retirement Saver’s:  This is for people who make retirement plan contributions based on income level.  This credit is in the amount of 10 to 50 percent of contributions, within various phase-out ranges.

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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WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SOCIAL SECURITY AND YOUR TAXES - NEW LIMITS FOR 2023


State, National, & World News    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 02-14-2024, 03:47 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.”

   

Social Security and Medicare are not just about retirement; they also have tax issues for individuals and businesses.

Each year, the maximum amount of earnings that is subject to Social Security Tax and Medicare Tax changes. 

For 2023, the maximum amount of earnings subject to Social Security Tax was $160,200 and for 2024 it will be $168,600.

For 2023 and 2024, the maximum earnings subject to Medicare Tax is unlimited.

A very common question that many people have as they are nearing retirement, and when they are in the first year of their retirement, is, “What is the maximum amount of earnings that I can make and still receive my full Social Security benefits?” 

For 2023, you could have made $21,240 if you were under the full retirement age at December 31, 2023.  For 2024, if you are under the full retirement age at year’s end, you can make $22,320.  However, if it is the year in which you reach full retirement age, for the months leading up to full retirement age only, you could have made $56,520 for 2023 and you can make $59,250 for 2024.  Further, in the month that full retirement age is reached and later, there is no limit to the amount you can earn and still receive full benefits.

Just because you can earn as much as you like and still get your full benefits once you hit full retirement age, you still have to pay taxes on any portion of your Social Security that is taxable, just like you did in years before you hit your full retirement age.  The rules are for a calculation of reduction of benefits, not a reduction of taxes.

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

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.

This article can be shared on Facebook at this link.

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SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES - SHOP PRICE COUNTY FIRST:  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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POLICE REPORTS: JANUARY 2024


News: Countywide    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 02-10-2024, 04:23 AM

   

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

PRICE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE

1-1-2024:  A Phillips man reported his brother was being aggressive.  Police responded.

1-1-2024:  A Park Falls woman reported a man drove her vehicle without permission as he only had permission to drive it to work.  He crashed the vehicle in Butternut.  The woman said the man was intoxicated, and he told her he hit a deer.

1-2-2024:  A Catawba woman reported her neighbor saw someone approach her house around 1 a.m. with a flashlight and then walked by the garage and onto the deck.  When a security light came on, the person ran to the woods.  The woman said a couple days before that, she noticed her garage door was open and the light was on.  She said a newer white van was seen driving slowly and turning around in her neighbor's driveway.

1-2-2024:  A Phillips man reported a two-vehicle accident on Flemings Rapids Road.  No one was injured but there was road blockage.  The Town of Elk was notified that the road was glare ice.

1-2-2024:  A person was having a seizure in a vehicle outside a business.  The vehicle's doors were locked.  Emergency services responded.

1-4-2024:  A Phillips man stated a woman was in his house smoking, threatening him, and hitting him.

1-6-2024:  A man reported a rollover in the Township of Spirit.  The vehicle slid off a corner and rolled over.  There were no injuries.

1-6-2024:  A woman called stating her son shot himself, and she was not sure if he was breathing.  She said she and her husband heard a loud noise.  They went to see what happened, and found their son with a gunshot wound to his head.

1-9-2024:  A Prentice student, who started attending school on November 28, 2023, did not return on January 2, 2024.  The school stated they never received transfer paperwork from the prior school.  Dispatch made calls attempting to contact the parents and ultimately reached an emergency contact who stated the family did not return to Price County after the holidays.

1-9-2024:  Price County Home Health & Human Services reported a woman was violating a felony bond by having contact with a Phillips man.  His home hospice nurse reported he had bruising on him, but he would not disclose how he received the bruising.  One female was taken into custody.

1-11-2024:  A Phillips man reported being physically attacked by another man by being pushed and hit.  On January 12th, the man who allegedly was doing the attacking turned himself in at the jail entrance for a probation warrant.

1-12-2024:  A Phillips woman reported a scam.  A man, calling himself "David Weathers" stated he was calling from an insurance company and had been trying to contact her for over a year.  The man asked her to load a cash app card with $200 and call him back.  Dispatch told the caller not to answer the phone if the man called back as it was a scam.

1-12-2024:  An Ogema woman reported someone was raped in her sleep.  Dispatch asked when this occurred, and the caller stated it happened sometime this month but the person just told her about it.

1-13-2024:  A Phillips woman reported a man with a head lamp walking around her yard.

1-14-2024:  A woman reported speeding, traffic, and drunk driving on Springs Drive in Phillips due to the bar on that road.

1-16-2024:  A Park Falls woman reported her mailbox being hit the night prior.

1-16-2024:  A man was arrested when he reported to the Sheriff's Office for a Department of Corrections Warrant.

1-18-2024:  A Kennan woman said she received a call that she won $15,000 from Publisher's Clearing House.  The caller wanted her to buy a gift card.  The caller also tried to get her to say "yes."  The woman realized it was a scam.

1-19-2024:  A Park Falls woman received a scam call.  The caller stated they were from Publisher's Clearing House.

1-19-2024:  A Phillips woman reported her dog was attacked by two dogs the day prior.  Her dog was injured and now had an infection.

1-20-2024:  A Prentice man reported a fire at senior housing in an apartment.

1-22-2024:  A Fifield woman reported a Honda Pilot was parked in a handicapped area at apartments in Fifield.  The woman reported that one of the family members of the owner of the vehicle is handicapped and the family passes the card around to each other.

1-22-2024:  A Park Falls woman reported she was being harassed by a woman who reported she was improperly parked in a handicap parking stall.

1-23-2024:  A man reported he was walking past the old Phillips Ford building and heard rushing water.  He looked through the window and saw water pouring across the floor.  Dispatch called the realtor, who was in another state.  Dispatch called the owner, who was also in another state.  The Department of Public Works shut off the water to the building.

1-23-2024:  A NIXLE Tip was received that an older man was heard, near Prentice, screaming that the people needed to get out or he would kill them.

1-24-2024:  An Ogema woman reported she saw someone messing around with her son's truck on her security camera footage.

1-27-2024:  At 4:12 a.m., an Eden Prairie, Minnesota man called to report that he received a call from his friend, Richard Cooper, which was concerning.  Dispatch tried calling Richard and Patricia's numbers several times but was unable to make contact.  Deputies responded.  At 9:29 a.m., a man, stating he was Richard's neighbor, requested a welfare check on Richard.  See related article.

1-28-2024:  A Park Falls woman advised there were three or four trailers across the street and at least one of the trailers was forcefully entered.  However, no fresh tracks were found around the camper.

1-29-2024:  An iPhone was found in the City of Phillips.

1-30-2024:  A Phillips man reported nails being dumped in his driveway on two occasions.

1-30-2024:  A Phillips woman reported she heard her back door open and close.  She looked outside and saw someone running down her driveway with what looked like a flashlight.

(Article continues after promotional image)
[Image: davettelynnehrabakcpa.jpg]
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.


PHILLIPS POLICE DEPARTMENT

1-1-2024:  An adult female reported a suspicious vehicle at a local convenience store where a juvenile female had asked for help.  The officer made contact with the driver who stated that he has a delivery in Phillips tomorrow and does not know why the adult female was saying what she was.  The driver let officers search the truck and did not locate a juvenile female.

1-2-2024:  Responded to a report of a vehicle that had a male driver who possibly had a seizure and the vehicle was locked.  An officer responded and met with the adult male who did not respond but was conscious.  Central Price County Ambulance arrived and tended to the adult male.  An officer arrested the adult male for operating while intoxicated and felony bail jumping. The adult male was held at the Price County Jail.

1-3-2024:  Responded to assist the Central Price County Ambulance Service with an adult male who possibly had a broken toe.  The male indicated that he had broken his toe yesterday when a plate had fallen on his toe while cooking.  Central Price County Ambulance Service arrived and accessed the patient.  Patient refused transport.

1-4-2024:  Police assisted the Price County Sheriff's Department with a domestic abuse incident outside the City of Phillips on Hilly Haven Circle.  One male individual was charged with Domestic Abuse, Disorderly Conduct, and False Imprisonment.  The male individual was transported to the Price County Jail for booking.

1-6-2024:  Responded to a two-vehicle accident near Chestnut Street and Argyle Avenue with road blockage and injury.  One female adult was transported to the medical center in Park Falls.

1-6-2024: Advised of an ATV that had gone through the ice on Elk Lake.  The male was okay and back at his vehicle in the Elk Lake Campground.  An officer Spoke with the male who indicated he had a recover service coming in the morning to retrieve the ATV.

1-10-2024:  Assisted the Price County Sheriff's Department with a traffic stop.  An adult female was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and multiple counts of felony bail jumping.

1-11-2024:  The Phillips Police Department and Price County Sheriff's Department responded to a report of an altercation between two adult males.  Police forwarded a review of charges to the Price County District Attorney's Office for disorderly conduct.

1-14-2024:  Advised of a female individual who was not responsive in her residence in the City of Phillips.  An officer arrived on scene and observed the female individual had passed away. An officer contacted the Price County Corner and investigated the incident.

1-16-2024: Investigated a report of harassing messages to a local business in the City of Phillips.  Police spoke with the subjects involved, and they were warned about their behavior.

1-18-2024: Advised by the Phillips School District of two males engaging in a fight.  An officer responded to the school and met with school staff.  An officer was advised the altercation was between two siblings and that the school would be handling the issue.

1-18-2024:  Responded to a report of a two-vehicle accident on North Lake Avenue.  An officer met with the two owners.  The struck vehicle had minimal damage.  Both men exchanged information.

1-21-2024:  Received a complaint from an adult female who advised her two daughters were locked in the bathroom and would not come out, and the older daughter had gotten a bottle of alcohol from a person last night.  An officer responded and spoke to the mother and two daughters.  A report was referred to Price County Human Services.

1-23-2024:  Observed a man who was standing along the roadside.  The officer spoke with the man who stated that he had just been released from jail and was waiting for his ride.  He stated that he did not want to loiter at businesses so he was standing at the roadside hoping that his ride would see him

1-23-2024: Assisted the Price County Sheriff's Department with a traffic stop.  A man was arrested for a probation warrant, possession of drug paraphernalia and felony bail jumping. The man will also receive a citation for a city ordinance violation.

1-26-2024:  Received a complaint from an employee of a local business who advised they had an unruly customer that was yelling at them and refused to leave.  An officer arrived and spoke to the complainant and female offender.  An officer asked the customer three times to leave the business as she was requested to do by the employee.  The customer finally complied and left the business.

1-27-2024:  Assisted the Central Price County Ambulance Service with a male individual who was highly intoxicated and fell off a bar stool at an establishment in Phillips.  The male received a ride home from a sober person.

1-28-2024:  Advised of an altercation between two individuals in the City of Phillips.  An officer arrived on scene and investigated the situation.  It was learned that a domestic situation had occurred at the residence.  One female was arrested for Domestic Abuse, Battery, Disorderly Conduct, Misdemeanor Bail Jumping, and Felony Bail Jumping.  The female was transported to the Price County Jail for booking.

1-28-2024:  Received a complaint in regard to a sexual assault of two children by a man that occurred in the City of Phillips.

1-30-2024:  Police were asked to assist the Price County Sheriff's Department with locating a male individual who entered a residence without permission in the Township of Emery on County Road D.  Officers patrolled the area and did not locate the male.

1-31-2024:  Assisted the Phillips Fire Department with a fire alarm at a senior housing unit.  The officer responded and learned that the alarm was set off by a burnt piece of toast.

1-31-2024: Requested to assist the Price County Jail during a strip search of a woman who had put contraband in her body's cavity.  The adult female eventually complied and provided the jail staff with the contraband.

(Article continues after promotional image)
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PARK FALLS POLICE DEPARTMENT

1-4-2024: A woman indicated that her ex-husband stole her car keys and left the house on foot.

1-5-2024:  Responded to the high school for a report from staff of a student in possession of concerning materials.  There were no criminal charges. The matter will be handled by the school district.

1-7-2024:  A reporting party stated her small dog had been attacked by another dog and seriously injured on Friday, January 5, 2024, at her residence.

1-11-2024: An officer reported that a motorist advised him of an injured owl at the listed location.  The owl was safely retrieved and turned over to a wildlife center.

1-13-2024:  Officers responded to a motel for the report of one female who needed a ride home. Upon investigation, officers learned the female suspect had an active warrant out for her arrest. The female was later transported to the Price County Jail where illegal substances were located in the suspect's property.

1-21-2024:  Received a report of an intoxicated male at address on 1st Avenue North.  Upon speaking with the person, it was determined he was lost and needed to get home.  The male gave minimal details as to where he wanted to go.  He made a threat to the officer about shooting him. The male was arrested and booked into the Price County Jail.  A referral sent to the district attorney's office for disorderly conduct and threats to law enforcement.

1-23-2024:  A woman reported her mother passed away at a facility in December, but when she received her mother's property, she didn't receive her mother's wedding ring.

1-23-2024:  There was a report of a large amount of saw dust blowing from a plant and covering local residents’ houses and lawns.  A call was made to the city attorney for the next course of action.

1-26-2024:  Officers observed a male suspect with a felony warrant inside a residence.  He shut the lights off when he saw the officers.  After ignoring the officers for a bit, his mother came to the door.  The officers said it was in his best interest to come into custody, and she let the officers locate him in the house, hiding in a room in the basement.  He was taken into custody without further incident.

1-27-2024: An officer talked to a complainant about some unknown white powdery substance she found in her business.  She believes her co-owner is using drugs inside the business and asked if we could test the substance.  The substance was tested for cocaine, codeine, heroin, morphine, and oxycodone.  The unknown substance didn't result in a positive test result for any of the drugs.

1-27-2024:  An officer responded to assist the Price County Sheriff's Office with the report of a homicide / suicide investigation.  Upon entry into the residence, one deceased victim and one deceased suspect were located.  See related article.

1-29-2024:  A student was found in possession of a replica handgun.  Price County Human Services was contacted.

1-30-2024:  A report was made for record regarding a possible threat from one juvenile to another at Chequamegon High School.

1-31-2024:  Two officers were monitoring radio traffic when they heard that Price County deputies were responding to a vehicle attempting to ram another vehicle off the road.  The altercation was fluid, and both vehicles were traveling north from Maple Grove Road.  Lt. Janak asked the officers if they would attempt to intercept the vehicles.  Officers located and stopped both vehicles.

1-31-2024:  There was a report of multiple fights occurring in the Chequamegon High School locker room on Thursday, January 25; Friday, January 26; and two months prior.

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Birchland Realty specializes in commercial, residential, recreational, and vacant land real estate.  Visit Birchland Realty's website to find your new property.


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VILAS COUNTY: MISSING WOMAN FOUND IN VILAS COUNTY


News: Vilas County    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 02-09-2024, 04:18 AM

   

Just before noon on Thursday, February 8, 2024, the Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department received a report of a missing 68-year old woman who had gone for a walk but had not returned.

The tribal police initiated its search protocol.  Officers attempted to locate the woman, who reportedly has dementia.  Area responders provided aid, and the Newbold Fire Department Search and Rescue offered their highly-trained search and rescue dogs to the effort.

About five hours after the report was received, Vilas County Deputy Julie Mootz received information that a woman matching that description was seen walking on County Hwy. H near East Boundary Road, which is a desolate area.

The tribal police were forwarded the information and responded to the scene.  The officer saw a woman who appeared cold, disheveled, and somewhat wet.  The woman stated she had walked across a lake, and her tracks were later found extending from the lake.  The woman was not in need of medical treatment, and she was returned safely to her home.

The Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police stated, "We are extremely thankful for the happy ending to today’s long search and very grateful to all those who assisted.  The Lac du Flambeau Tribal Police Department and the Lac du Flambeau Tribe would like to thank Newbold Fire Department Search and Rescue, Vilas County Sheriff’s Office and Dispatch, Lac du Flambeau Emergency Management, Lac du Flambeau Fire and Ambulance Department, Lac du Flambeau Conservation Law Department, Oneida County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin Civil Air Patrol, and Vilas County Emergency Management.  A special thanks to Vilas County Deputy Julie Mootz for going above and beyond to locate the missing woman."


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PARK FALLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL ANNOUNCES JANUARY'S RED AND POP TABS WINNERS


News: Park Falls and Fifield    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 02-09-2024, 03:37 AM

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

   

January's Pop Tabs winner is Mrs. Olson's class.  They collected over 37.3 pounds of tabs in January.  All pop tabs benefit the Ronald McDonald House in Marshfield.

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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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EAGLE AWARD WINNERS ANNOUNCED AT PARK FALLS ELEMENTARY SCHOOL


News: Park Falls and Fifield    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 02-08-2024, 03:45 AM

The January Eagle Award winners were announced at Park Falls Elementary School.

According to the Chequamegon School District, "For the month of January, these students distinguished themselves as being kind at school."

   

Front row, left to right:  Reed Damrow, Cole Eimermann, Koji Sohl, Quinn Kontny, Serenity Isham, Brantly Doyle, Max Barylski, Atea Sibanuz, and Jayla Hilgart

Back row, left to right:  Layla Gokee, Jaylnn Crom, Leland Rabauliman, Alana Mwangin, Andy Overturff, Jackson Larson, and The Screaming Eagle

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RUSK COUNTY:  MAN SURVIVES FIRST VEHICLE ACCIDENT; LOSES LIFE IN SECOND ACCIDENT


News: Rusk County    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 02-02-2024, 03:24 AM

   

At 5:50 p.m. on Wednesday, January 31, 2024, Rusk County 911 Center received a call about a two-vehicle accidnt on Hwy. 8 near Townline Road, west of Ladysmith.

Emergency services responded to the scene.

It was discovered that a 2019 Chevy Tahoe, which was driven by Gregory Davis, 59, Ladysmith, was traveling westbound on Hwy. 8.  While slowing down to make a right-hand turn, a 2005 Pontiac Grand Prix, driven by Kai Rasmussen, 35, Bruce, hit Davis' vehicle from behind.

After the crash, the car driven by Rasmussen was disabled in the road with no working tail lights.  He and his passenger, Robert Merta, 18, Ladysmith, attempted to push the vehicle off the road.  Another westbound vehicle, a 2017 Ford Escape driven by Mark Western, 62, Cameron, crashed into them.  Rasmussen sustained fatal injuries due to the second crash.

Responding agencies included Rusk County Sheriff's Office, Ladysmith Fire Department, Ladysmith Police Department, Rusk County Ambulance Service, the Rusk County Medical Examiner, and Life Link III.

The crash was reconstructed by the Wisconsin State Patrol - Traffic Reconstruction Unit.

The crash is under investigation by the Rusk County Sheriff's Office.


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RUSK COUNTY:  MAN CHARGED WITH HOMICIDE BY INTOXICATED USE OF A MOTOR VEHICLE


News: Rusk County    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 01-31-2024, 03:35 AM

At 3:30 a.m. on Tuesday, January 30, 2024, a 911 call was received in Rusk County about a two vehicle accident on Olesiak Road, West of Weyerhaeuser.

A westbound Jeep, driven by Jorge Sanchez-Tzanahua, 21, Rice Lake, collided with an eastbound semi driven by Steven Nasholm, 35, Clayton.

Nasholm died due to injuries sustained in the crash.

Sanchez-Tzanahua was taken to the Rusk County Jail.  He is charged with Homicide by Intoxicated Use of a Motor Vehicle and OWI 2nd.

Rusk County deputies, Ladysmith Ambulance, Weyerhaeuser First Responders, Weyerhaeuser Fire, and Wisconsin State Patrol responded to the accident scene.

   


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TAYLOR COUNTY: MAN COMMITS SUICIDE AFTER VEHICLE ACCIDENT


News: Taylor County    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 01-29-2024, 04:01 AM

At 1:19 p.m. on January 24, 2024, the Taylor County Sheriff’s Office received a 911 call reporting a one vehicle accident at the intersection of Winter Sports Road and Spruce Lake Road in the Town of Grover.  The caller stated the vehicle was off the road.  There was a large amount of blood in the vehicle.  Taylor County deputies, along with EMS and Fire, were dispatched.

Upon arrival, it was determined that Zachary Dunn, 41, Medford, was deceased.  However, his death was not caused by the accident.  Rather, his death was caused by a self-inflicted gunshot wound.

According to the Taylor County Sheriff's Office, the investigation determined that "Dunn was operating the vehicle and was traveling southbound on Winter Sports Road.  While southbound on Winter Sports Road, Dunn’s vehicle began to swerve back and forth, crossing the center of the roadway several times.  The vehicle then entered the east ditch striking trees and causing extensive damage to the vehicle.  The air bag was deployed.  After the vehicle came to rest in the ditch, Dunn retrieved a firearm that was in his vehicle and committed suicide by self-inflicted gunshot wound."

At this time, it is unclear if Dunn intentionally drove off the road or lost control of his vehicle.  The investigation is ongoing.


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INFORMATION RELEASED ABOUT APPARENT MURDER-SUICIDE IN PHILLIPS - UPDATED 1/30/2024


News: Phillips, Kennan, and Catawba    No Replies

My Northern Wisconsin, 01-27-2024, 01:37 PM

   

INFORMATION RELEASED ABOUT APPARENT MURDER-SUICIDE IN PHILLIPS
UPDATED ON 1/30/2024

At approximately 4:13 a.m. on January 27, 2024, a third party called the Price County Sheriff's Office to report a possible suicidal man who had just killed his wife.  The incident occurred on South Minnow Lake Road in the Township of Elk.

When Price County Sheriff’s Office deputies arrived at the scene, they were unable to make contact with anyone inside the home.  According to a statement by Price County Sheriff Brian Schmidt, "Deputies made entry into the residence where they located two deceased subjects.  The victim, Patricia Cooper of Cottage Grove, Minnesota was found deceased with apparent gunshot injuries.  Richard Cooper of Cottage Grove, Minnesota was found deceased with an apparent self-inflicted gunshot wound."

According to property tax records, Richard Kain and Patricia Jean Cooper own property at W7311 South Minnow Lake Road, which they purchased in August 2007.  Their main address is in Cottage Grove, Minnesota.

The investigation into the apparent murder-suicide is ongoing.  Additional assistance in the investigation has been provided by Hennepin County Medical Examiner’s Office.

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TWO FOUND DECEASED IN TOWNSHIP OF ELK
ORIGINAL ARTICLE PUBLISHED ON 1/27/2024

   

On Saturday, January 27, 2024, Price County Sheriff Brian Schmidt reported, "During the early morning hours, the Price County Sheriff’s Office found two people deceased in the Township of Elk.  The names of the deceased are being withheld pending notification of family."

The sheriff's office stated there is no risk to the public.  The investigation is being conducted by the Price County Sheriff’s Office and further information will be provided.  My Price County will update this article when we have more information.

The responding agencies included the Price County Sheriff’s Office, Price County Coroner’s Office, Park Falls Police Department, Phillips Police Department, and Central Price County Ambulance Service.

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