Reports received by the police departments in Price County for the month have been condensed and summarized.
PRICE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
4/1/2022: A caller reported a female walking in the ditch on Hwy. 13 north of Phillips. Since the female was weaving on the side of the road, the caller was concerned she may walk into traffic.
4/2/2022: A man reported that a vehicle pulled into his driveway the night prior to put a payment in a drop box, and when the driver did not put the vehicle in park, it hit the man's attached garage and wall attached to his house, causing a great amount of damage. The woman said she rang the doorbell but no one answered, so she called the next morning to advise the homeowner of the damage and provide insurance information.
4/3/2022: A woman was driving a UTV the day prior, and when she went to turn into the driveway of a residence, a delivery van was passing her. A low-speed accident occurred. The driver stopped to make sure everyone was okay but added, "We don't need to call the police, right?" The woman agreed at the time, but after giving it more thought, decided to report the accident to the police the next day.
4/4/2022: An accident occurred near the county line. No injuries were reported and there was no entrapment. The vehicle was reported to be very far in the ditch and would need to be towed out.
4/4/2022: A man reported he had been hacked. He said he noticed a charge for a porn site on his account. He contacted the bank to dispute the charge, but the bank advised there had been a phone call approving the transaction. The man said the bank told him to purchase a gift card from the bank and then they could dispute the charge.
4/5/2022: A woman reported being punched in the back of the head by a man outside a bar in Park Falls.
4/5/2022: A man reported a two vehicle accident with injuries north of Phillips. Both drivers were reported out of their vehicles.
4/6/2022: An employee at a resort in Butternut reported a woman was harassing the establishment, complaining that they do not have the food or drinks she wants and calling a bartender at their home. The woman has been asked not to come back to the bar but she continues to come back and complain.
4/6/2022: A man reported that a bald eagle flew out of the woods on Hwy. 70 and flew into the front of his truck. He and other motorists stopped; one person attempted to contact the DNR, and a Native American man said a prayer over the eagle and sprinkled tobacco on the ground around it. The Native American man took the eagle with him so he could perform a ceremony for it.
4/7/2022: Price County Forestry and Parks advised individuals moved two picnic tables onto the ice one day and again moved one picnic table back out onto the ice at Smith Lake County Park.
4/8/2022: A welfare check was requested by an insurance company on a man who stated he was having a hard time breathing, was coughing, and was worried about the cost of an ambulance, so he said he would drive himself to the hospital, but the insurance company was worried he would not make it. The man did make it to the hospital.
4/9/2022: A woman reported that a vehicle flew off the roadway approximately 50 feet past the ditch line. Her husband was at the vehicle talking to the driver, and the caller requested an ambulance.
4/9/2022: A man stated his friend had stripped naked and was breaking things in his garage. He believed the man was high on mushrooms. The man called back hours later to report his friend drank half a gallon of Fireball and was out of control, running down the road, jumping into a ditch, and acting crazy.
4/11/22: A woman reported seeing a man, who looked like he was in distress, sitting on the side of the highway in Prentice.
4/11/22: A woman reported that a neighbor in an apartment building in Prentice told her in an angry manner, "Just you wait. You'll get what you deserve." A week later the caller had two pairs of pants hanging in the laundry room, and she believes they were stolen by the woman given she was the only person in the apartment building at the time.
4/13/22: A school bus was reported as being tipped partially on its side on a flooded road. The caller reported that her husband was helping get the kids off the bus.
4/13/22: A man reported his shop by his house was on fire but he was away from his house and the fire, and he requested the fire department respond to his residence.
4/17/22: A man reported seeing an older man sitting in a ditch line in Kennan. A deputy responded and reported a small fire in the ditch line.
4/18/22: A woman reported that her boyfriend was hurt when his vehicle went into a ditch and requested an ambulance.
4/18/22: Multiple 911 calls were received for a large structure fire in the Township of Flambeau. No one was reported to be in the structure or the house adjacent to the building, but the structure was reported to be fully engulfed in flames and explosions were coming from the fire.
4/19/22: A man called stating he works for a Japanese company in Park Falls, and they were making him work in the dark. The man requested a deputy bring him to a shelter, but dispatch advised the Sheriff's Office does not give rides.
4/20/22: A Prentice woman called to report slander in her apartment building stating she was afraid to leave her apartment because her neighbor kept slandering her name to other residents.
4/20/22: A man called to report part of a road was washed out in the Township of Hackett.
4/21/22: An employee at a gas station in Prentice called to report a female had stopped to purchase gas, and when she opened her trunk, the caller believed she saw a person in the trunk. The female left the gas station and headed toward downtown Prentice.
4/21/22: A caller reported a 10 feet by 10 to 20 feet object in the water on Long Lake. Another woman called to say her tent had blown away into the water and she would retrieve it.
4/23/22: A man reported a male had pulled a hand gun at a bar and fired two shots. The caller was unsure if anyone was injured. Contact was made with the bar. No one was injured and all parties took off in white and blue pick-up trucks.
(Article continues after promotional message.) SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES - SHOP PRICE COUNTY FIRST: Ken's Carpet & The Consignment Store sells all flooring types (carpet, vinyl, wood, & ceramic), bedding / mattresses, appliances, solar systems, and consignment sales of furniture, automobiles, farming & logging equipment, ATVs, UTVs, trailers, and campers. Call 715-339-4838 for product inquiries, and follow Ken's Carpet & The Consignment Store'sFacebook page.
PHILLIPS POLICE DEPARTMENT
4/7/22 - A domestic animal was found by a caller who was walking outside. After investigation, it was determined the animal was abandoned by the owner and that person received a citation for animal abandonment.
4/9/22 - Police assisted with an accident that caused an injury in the Township of Flambeau.
4/9/22 - A minor two vehicle accident occurred at a local business.
4/10/22 - Police received a call reporting a fire alarm had been activated due to food burning while cooking inside an apartment. An officer verified there wasn't a fire and contacted a caretaker to reset the alarm.
4/11/22 - A trespassing issue occurred at a local school over the weekend. Some damage to school property was reported.
4/13/22 - A person reported a neighbor's house may be on fire. An officer arrived and observed the residence was merely having a campfire.
4/14/22 - Police executed two search warrants for the possession and distribution of methamphetamine on Kimball Street and Storms Road. Two men were arrested.
4/14/22 - Phillips Police were notified by the Price County Sheriff's Department of a property damage accident involving a Price County deputy. An officer viewed the damage and believed the damage did not meet the reportable threshold.
4/19/22 - Police responded to a two vehicle collision on North Lake Avenue. No injuries were reported. One driver was cited for failure to yield right of way.
4/19/22 - A local business reported a person throwing away a deer carcass in their garbage, and the business was going to review video surveillance.
4/20/22 - Police issued a raze order on a city residence on Kimball Street as it was in violation of numerous city ordinances.
4/20/22 - A home owner reported they had a squatter at their residence.
4/20/22 - Police assisted the Price County Sheriff's Department with an EMP check on a residence in the City of Phillips. Illegal contraband was found, and a man was arrested.
4/21/22 - Police were advised of damage to city property.
4/21/22 - Police assisted the Phillips Fire Department with a fire call at an apartment complex. An officer arrived and determined there was nobody in the apartment. The fire department arrived and observed that the fire was extinguished, so they used fans to clear out the smoke. All units were cleared shortly after.
4/21/22 - A person staying at a local motel was arrested for Possession with Intent to Deliver Methamphetamine, Possession of Drug Paraphernalia, and Felony Bail Jumping.
4/22/22 - A welfare check was requested on a woman's elderly mother. Police found the woman at her residence, and she advised police that her phone was off as she had been at the movie theater.
4/23/22 - Police assisted the Price County Sheriff's Department with a male who fired a firearm into the air at a bar in Prentice. Officers located the man and arrested him.
4/23/22 - A woman reported an odor of natural gas on Flambeau Avenue. The utility company had already been notified and were going to fix the problem.
4/27/22 - A motel reported a man left without paying for 3 weeks. The man was referred to the district attorney's office for fraud on a hotel.
4/27/22 - A man reported that he believed another man had put something in his soap. An officer spoke with the man and advised him there was nothing in his soap. The man asked for extra patrol around his residence.
4/29/22 - A home owner received a courtesy violation notice for having two mattresses and other debris in the back yard. The owner was given 72 hours to clean it up.
4/29/22 - A courtesy violation was issued to a citizen for a health code violation of refuse on their property. They were issued a five day notice to come into compliance.
4/30/22 - Police received a report of theft from a residence by a home care employee. The officer searched the residence and could not find the item that was reported stolen.
(Article continues after promotional image) SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES - SHOP PRICE COUNTY FIRST: Fred Mueller Ford, Phillips, sells a full line of automobiles and offers quality mechanic services performed by factory-trained technicians. Visit Fred Mueller Ford's website., follow their Facebook page, call 715-339-3045, or view their inventory at 175 North Avon Avenue in Phillips.
PARK FALLS POLICE DEPARTMENT
4/4/22 - An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle. Upon investigation, officers detected the odor of marijuana coming from the vehicle. Ultimately, the driver was arrested for OWI - 3rd Offense.
4/5/22 - A person reported a domestic abuse incident that occurred in a vehicle in front of a bar. The victim reported battery. A suspect was located and arrested.
4/8/22 - Upon completing a bar check, an officer located two dogs within the building. The officer discovered the animals were not licensed through Price County and it was unknown if the animals had been properly vaccinated.
4/11/22 - A person placed "no trespassing" barrels on city right of way in front of his driveway. He was asked to move the barrels off right of way and did so.
4/11/22 - An officer was dispatched to the area of Paddock Avenue and Avery Avenue for the report of a large amount of smoke coming from a residence. Upon investigation, the officer spoke with one homeowner who was burning wood in his fire pit.
4/11/22 - There was a report of disturbance at a residence. A suspect was banging on a window. Officers arrived, and the suspect fled on foot. The suspect stopped and was subsequently warned for trespassing and disorderly conduct.
4/12/2022 - At approximately 1:30 a.m., officers identified one female in a gas station parking lot. It was found that the female had a warrant out for her arrest. Officers made contact with the female, and she was placed under arrest. Officers made contact with the male passenger, as well. It was found that the male passenger also had a warrant out for his arrest. The male was then taken into custody. Upon searching the male subject, drug paraphernalia items were located on him.
4/12/22 - An adult man's possessions were found at a business in an old sauna area. The man was homeless and had been living there without the owner's permission.
4/12/22 - An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for an illegible front license plate. Upon investigation, the officer arrested one female driver for Felony Bail Jumping. Upon searching the female, the officer located THC and drug paraphernalia on her. The female was transported to the Price County Jail where a probation hold was put into place, as well.
4/14/22 - An officer responded to a Park Falls gas station for a battery and disorderly conduct incident. A suspect was arrested and transported to Price County Jail.
4/18/22 - A man requested to speak with an officer at his residence to report a hit and run accident. There was a large dent / crease in the driver's side front quarter panel in excess of the reporting limits. A Wisconsin motor vehicle crash report was completed. There are no suspects at this time.
4/19/22 - An officer took information form Racine Police Department for a runaway juvenile who may be within the City of Park Falls. The case was referred to the Price County Sheriff's Office. The officer assisted PRSO in an attempt to locate the juvenile. The juvenile was not located.
4/23/22 - An officer received a call from a Park Falls grocery store regarding a found green card. An officer obtained the green card and could not locate the owner. An officer checked TLOXP, in house records, and Price County records. The green card will be mailed to Texas per instructions located on the green card.
4/25/22 - An officer assisted a Price County deputy on a traffic stop when an officer observed drug paraphernalia in the vehicle. One male subject was arrested for Possession of Methamphetamine and Felony Bail Jumping.
4/30/22 - An officer spoke with a male subject who came to the police department to turn himself in upon a warrant. Ultimately, the officer arrested the male subject upon the warrant. The subject was then released upon the Price County Jail's decision not to house him in their jail.
(Article continues after promotional image) SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES - SHOP PRICE COUNTY FIRST: Forward Bank is a depositor-owned organization driven to move our communities forward. By offering free checking, great rates on loans & deposits, business services, leading edge digital services, and a Charitable Money Market Account, Forward Bank keeps our communities strong. For more information, visit Forward Bank's website.
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Governor Tony Evers is seeking applicants for district attorneys in five counties, including Lincoln and Rusk. The appointments will fill vacancies being created by the election of each county’s district attorney to their respective county’s circuit court. The new district attorneys will serve for the remainder of the unexpired terms that end January 2025.
To apply, please email a completed application form and supporting materials to GovDAapp@wisconsin.gov. Applications must be received by 5 p.m. on Wed., May 25, 2022. Applicants should specify the county for which they are applying in the subject line of their email.
The application is available on the “Apply to Serve” page of Gov. Evers’ website at: www.evers.wi.gov.
For questions about the appointment process, please contact the Governor’s Office of Legal Counsel at (608) 266-1212.
In the fall of 2021 the Lincoln County Pollinator Project held its first seed harvest. The goal of the harvest was to provide enough seed to the community to create at least 10,000 square feet of new native prairie. After processing and preparing the seed, the Conservation Program has determined that enough seed was harvested to establish over 19,000 square feet!
These seeds are being made available to the community at no cost along with detailed instructions on how to establish the garden plots. Each sachet contains enough seed to establish a 64 square foot area of native plants targeted towards supporting local pollinators. The sachets are available while supplies last at the following locations: Tomahawk Public Library, Lincoln County Service Center (upper level main entrance), Merrill Enrichment Center, and T.B. Scott Library.
On April 29, 2022, the Gene & Terry Grapa family lost their home.
The fire started in the garage. Terry, who was sleeping, was woken by her daughter, Myra. Terry quickly looked outside and could see the fire through the garage window. She thought she had time to get the car out of the garage, but Gene told her to call 911 instead, which she did. Her daughter tried to get the car out, but noticed it was already in flames. Fire spread quickly, and it was soon threatening the house, so the family went inside to check for their cats. Two of the cats were found on the property. The other one was missing but later found alive. After a quick search of the house for the cats, soon the house was engulfed in flames, and the Grapa's home was a total loss.
Luckily, they were able to find and clean a lot of their clothes, and they have received many kind donations of food and other items. For those who would like to give a money donation, funds can be sent to Gene Grapa, W5378 Hillcrest Road, Phillips, WI 54555 with "Grapa Fire Fund" in the memo or via PayPal
On Thursday, May 5, 2022 at approximately 11:14 a.m., the Taylor County Sheriff's Office Dispatch Center received a 911 call reporting a 51-year old man trapped under a large tractor tire on a farm located on Pine Avenue in the Town of Little Black. The caller reported that the person may be deceased.
Taylor County law enforcement and EMS were dispatched to the scene and found the male was removed from underneath the wheel prior to arrival but there were no signs of life. Emergency responders attempted life-saving measures at the scene. However, efforts were unsuccessful, and the man, Eli Mullett of Curtiss, WI, was pronounced deceased at the scene.
A preliminary investigation indicates Elie was working on a tractor in the machine shed. At some point, the large rear tractor wheel tipped backwards onto him, trapping him. Preliminary findings indicate Eli died from asphyxiation due to injuries sustained form the incident. No foul play is suspected at this time.
The 2nd annual community-wide garage sale weekend will take place on June 10, 11, and 12, 2022 for anyone with a Phillips address, both in the city limits and in the country.
"There were 17 thrift sales on My Price County's list last year," said Lynne Bohn, event organizer at My Price County. "Other sales popped up at the last minute, and we estimate there were about 30 sales in 2021. We hope that everyone interested in having a sale this year will be able to get their sales on the list. My Price County promotes the event and the list of sales, so getting on the list should greatly increase traffic to each sale."
My Price County is offering free advertising to residents who would like to have a garage sale on that weekend. To participate, reserve your ad spot by submitting your first and last name, full address of your garage sale location, the days (Friday, Saturday, and/or Sunday) and the times you set for your garage sale, along with a short list (20 words or less) of some of the items that will be at your garage sale. Either message My Price County on Facebook or send an e-mail to Contact@MyPriceCounty.com with "Garage Sale" in the subject line. The deadline for submitting your garage sale is June 3, 2022. Please note, you will need to place your own garage sales signs and do any additional advertising that you choose.
Note: If other communities in Price County have garage sale weekends, please send that information to Contact@MyPriceCounty.com so the event dates can get listed on the community calendar, https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/calendar.php
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES - SHOP PRICE COUNTY FIRST Ken's Carpet & The Consignment Store sells all flooring types (carpet, vinyl, wood, & ceramic), bedding / mattresses, appliances, solar systems, and consignment sales of furniture, automobiles, farming & logging equipment, ATVs, UTVs, trailers, and campers. Call 715-339-4838 for product inquiries, and follow Ken's Carpet & The Consignment Store'sFacebook page.
The Phillips Public Library has over 7,000 books in the Children's Section, and 26 of them were a large focus of an over 3 hour long board meeting held the end of April. The meeting was attended by at least four dozen people with 25 public comments.
The concerns started being voiced over the last couple years from parents who were noticing books that concerned them in the Children's Section. More recently, there was a small display of some of these new books by the children's toys at the library, and multiple parents voiced their concerns.
One group of people believes the 26 challenged children's books should be available to children throughout the Children's Section, shelved as any other book would be at the library. Another group believes that six of the books should be permanently removed from the collection, and the other 20 books can be at the library but should be in the adult section or on a special parenting shelf. A separate categorization would allow parents to decide if they want their child to read a certain book. If they do want their child to read it, the parent could provide guidance in understanding subjects such as LGBTQ topics, Critical Race Theory, police brutality, transgender, and other modern social situations. There are also stances in between these beliefs. Children seven and older are allowed to be unsupervised by a parent at the library and are able to check out library materials, as well.
(Article continues after promotional message.) SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES - SHOP PRICE COUNTY FIRST: Stop by Harbor View Pub & Eatery, a view that changes with the seasons. This restaurant, pub, and vacation rental is located at 1094 North Lake Avenue in Phillips. View Harbor View's website, follow their Facebook page, or call 715-339-2626.
At the meeting, Sally Kopecky shared her thoughts. "Children’s books should serve two purposes. One, to act as a mirror reflecting a child’s own life and culture, and two, a window allowing children to see into the lives of others and recognize the diversity of their world. For that reason, the library should be filled with mirror and window books....I also feel that if you don’t want to read the book, then don’t. If a child brings home a diverse book, it is a great opportunity to teach them about the world's differences and that everyone is unique and recognizing our individual differences. The public library is there to provide books of all subjects; it is your responsibility as a parent/guardian to provide your child with the knowledge of your family morals and set guidelines for them when going to the library."
Shirley Smith voiced that children generally already share the views and values of their parents.
Jackie Barnes stated she was addressing the library board and not addressing the audience. She also remarked that she knows the board and staff are all great people and do a great job. She said her views were not about censorship of books, but asked, "If a child who was sexually abused would see these types of books, what do you think would happen to that child? Could the child perhaps misconstrue what he/she is seeing and be affected by them and act on them?" She wondered what the legal liability could be to the county if a child acted on what he/she read in the books and how much it might cost the people of Price County. She addressed Bruce Marshall with the legal questions, and he replied it was a good question. "It’s not about censorship," Jackie shared, "but placing the books up so the parents have access and not the children."
Some people feel the group challenging the books are bigots who are voicing hate speech. Pastor Christian Markle stated that, while they have a right to their opinions, this is simply not the case. He said he feels everyone needs to be careful with anything regarding children. He used some props to make his point. He held up a paper bag and explained there was an object that some people may find dangerous, though he was not there to hurt, harm, or scare them. He explained the item in the bag was a useful tool when used properly. The tool was a sheathed French chef knife. He explained that while it is a useful tool in the kitchen, and one parents would want to teach their children about with guidance, no one would want to find a number of them lying around in a child's toy box or playground. He stated knives are not bad but they need to be appropriately shared with children under parental guidance, much like the books in question. He further shared with My Price County, "At minimum, I believe the books should be adequately labeled. That might simply be a regular library label that is already in existence." He explained there are two different labels for religious books, and there are other labels in the children's section that are categorized by topic. However, the books up for debate are not currently put into a category. Rather, they are spread across the children's section. Religious books, however, are isolated in their own category. He suggested that these books could be put in a parenting section so that if people want to parent their children in a certain direction, they can choose to do that, but he feels children should not come across these books on their own without parental guidance. He believes there needs to be a combination of answers to address these concerns, but he does not believe in a book burning or other drastic measure.
Jake Wyrzykowski, librarian, shared his thoughts on the topic. "The bottom line is every book on our shelves is appreciated by someone in the community. Certain individuals are offended and concerned, but, ultimately, it's a difference of opinion. Concerned parents have a responsibility to decide what their children read. A primary function of the library as a free service of democracy is to allow those with different opinions equal access to the books and the opinions / ideas contained within."
Becky Puhl, Library Director, has a similar viewpoint. "The accepted stance of public libraries is that we exist to serve everyone in the community. We do not censor or ban materials. We buy and catagorize materials based on a board-approved collection development policy. Everyone, regardless of age, has a right to information and materials. Ultimately, it is the responsibility of the parent or guardian to decide what is appropriate for their own children to read, and no person has the right to make that decision for anyone other than their own children."
Ten of the 26 books will be named at the May 26, 2022 board meeting. People will have until a week before the June meeting, usually scheduled for the last Tuesday of the month, to submit challenges for any of the ten specific books via a challenge form. Those first ten books will be reviewed by the board at the June meeting. Each meeting thereafter will address a group of books until all 26 have been reviewed by the library board. The challenge form can be obtained at the Phillips Public Library. General concern on books as a whole can be sent to Rebecca Puhl, Library Director, at rebeccas@phillipspl.org, and she will gather and send those comments to the library board. Library board members include Rick Morgan, Bruce Marshall, Jenny Markle, Becky Steinbach, Brittany Weisrock, Galen Azbel, Meredith Hueckman, Tara Belle, and Laura Tomaszweski.
(Article continues after promotional message.) SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES - SHOP PRICE COUNTY FIRST - Ken's Carpet & The Consignment Store sells all flooring types (carpet, vinyl, wood, & ceramic), bedding / mattresses, appliances, solar systems, and consignment sales of furniture, automobiles, farming & logging equipment, ATVs, UTVs, trailers, and campers. Call 715-339-4838 for product inquiries, and follow Ken's Carpet & The Consignment Store's Facebook page.
The following text information is a synopsis of each book on the challenge list, provided by more.lib.wi.us. Ana on the Edge, Call and Response - The Story of Black Lives Matter, Use of Force and the Fight Against Police Brutality, and You Be You are juvenile children's easy readers, and the other titles are children's picture books, so all the books would generally be viewed by children ten and under. To get a greater understanding of the content, these books can be viewed at the library or on YouTube or other video sources. My Price County has provided video links for some of the titles listed after the synopsis. The first six books on the list are facing possible removal from the library. The remaining 20 titles are requested to be moved to another area or permanently removed from the library. Aside from the first six books facing possible removal, the books are listed in no particular order.
Not My Idea, a Book about Whiteness (by Anastasia Higginbotham)
A white child sees a TV news report of a white police officer shooting and killing a black man. "In our family, we don't see color," his mother says, but he sees the colors plain enough. An afternoon in the library's history stacks uncover the truth of white supremacy in America. Racism was not his idea, and he refuses to defend it.
See and listen to the book at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-yafHWbDisI
Race Cars, a Children’s Book about White Privilege (by Ben Sand)
Race Cars is a children's book about white privilege. It was created to serve as a springboard for parents and educators to facilitate tough conversations with their kids about race, privilege and oppression. Race Cars tells the story of two best friends, a white car and a black car, that have different experiences and face different rules while entering the same race.
See and listen to the book at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=93opm-9BJDU
What Are Your Words? A Book About Pronouns (by Katherine Locke)
Ari knows a lot of words for neighbors, including the pronouns each prefers, and with help from Uncle Lior, who always asks "What are your words," figures out which pronouns, and other words, fit best today.
See and listen to the book at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UGqi1Q2x8PY
Antiracist Baby (by Ibram X. Kendi)
Illustrations and rhyming text present nine steps Antiracist Baby can take to improve equity, such as opening our eyes to all skin colors and celebrating all our differences.
See and listen to the book at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qw3DjP7HSts
You Be You - The Kid's Guide to Gender, Sexuality and Family (by Jonathan Branfman)
You Be You! is an illustrated children's book for ages 5 and up that makes gender identity, sexual orientation, and family diversity easy to explain to children. Throughout the book, kids learn that there are many kinds of people in the world and that diversity is something to be celebrated. It covers gender, romantic orientation, discrimination, intersectionality, privilege, and how to stand up for what's right.
Ana on the Edge (by A.J. Sass)
Twelve-year-old figure skater Ana strives to win her competitions while learning about gender identity - Ana's own and that of a new friend - and how to navigate the best path forward.
Heather Has Two Mommies (by Leslea Newman)
Heather's favorite number is two. She has two arms, two legs, and two pets. And she also has two mommies. When Heather goes to school for the first time, someone asks her about her daddy, but Heather doesn't have a daddy. Then something interesting happens. When Heather and her classmates all draw pictures of their families, not one drawing is the same. It doesn't matter who makes up a family, the teacher says, because "the most important thing about a family is that all the people in it love one another."
Jacob’s New Dress (by Sarah Hoffman)
Jacob, who likes to wear dresses at home, convinces his parents to let him wear a dress to school too.
See and listen to the book at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F9XPfjvijnE
Stella Brings the Family (by Miriam B. Schiffer)
Stella brings her two fathers to school to celebrate Mother's Day.
Introducing Teddy (by Jessica Walton)
Errol's best friend and teddy bear, Thomas, is sad because he wishes he were a girl, not a boy teddy, but what only matters to both of them is that they are friends.
See and listen to the book at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ddRmNpLYgCM
Julian at the Wedding (by Jessica Love)
"Julián and his abuela are going to a wedding. Better yet, Julián is in the wedding. Weddings have flowers and kissing and dancing and cake. And this wedding also has a new friend named Marisol. It's not long before Julián and Marisol set off for some magic and mischief of their own, and when things take an unexpected turn, the pair learns that everything is easier with a good friend by your side."
See and listen to the book at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dUOWQxlUs0o
Melissa’s Story / George (by Alex Gino)
When people look at George, they think they see a boy. But she knows she's not a boy. She knows she's a girl. George thinks she'll have to keep this a secret forever. Then her teacher announces that their fourth-grade class play is going to be Charlotte's Web. George really, really, REALLY wants to play Charlotte. But the teacher says she can't even try out for the part...because she's a boy. With the help of her best friend, Kelly, George comes up with a plan. Not just so she can be Charlotte - but so everyone can know who she is, once and for all.
Calvin (by J.R. Ford)
Calvin has always been a boy, even if the world sees him as a girl. He knows who he is in his heart and in his mind but he hasn't yet told his family. Finally, he can wait no longer: "I'm not a girl," he tells his family. "I'm a boy - a boy in my heart and in my brain." Quick to support him, his loving family takes Calvin shopping for the swim trunks he's always wanted and back-to-school clothes and a new haircut that helps him look and feel like the boy he's always known himself to be. As the first day of school approaches, he's nervous and the "what-ifs" gather up inside him. But as his friends and teachers rally around him and he tells them his name, all his "what-ifs" begin to melt away. This book is inspired by the authors' own transgender child.
See and listen to the book at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_CAEkSkkIyU
Jack (Not Jackie) (by Erica Silverman)
Susan loves her baby sister, Jackie, but as Jackie grows older and behaves more and more like a boy Susan must adjust to having a brother, Jack, instead.
See and listen to the book at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3_3dhnGAt7U
Papa, Daddy, and Riley (by Seamus Kirst)
When a classmate insists a family must have a mother and a father, Riley fears she will have to choose between Papa and Daddy until her fathers assure her that love makes a family.
My Rainbow (by Trinity and DeShanna Neal)
A dedicated mom puts love into action as she creates the perfect rainbow-colored wig for her transgender daughter based on the real-life experience of mother-daughter advocate duo Trinity and DeShanna Neal.
Dress-Up Day: All Kinds of Clothes (by Lisa Bullard)
Chloe is excited to pick out a special outfit for school, but she isn't sure of what to wear. Readers will learn how clothes can show a person's interests, personality, culture, and more!
Different Can Be Great: All Kinds of Families (by Lisa Bullard)
Makayla's family is about to change with her baby brother's arrival. She goes on a mission to see how families are each unique. Readers discover how families are different and that different is great!
Sewing the Rainbow (by Gayle E. Pitman)
Sewing the Rainbow is the powerful story of Gilbert Baker and the creation of the rainbow flag. This book takes readers from Gilbert's childhood in a small town in Kansas where he didn't fit in to his historic artistic career in San Francisco. Today the flag is everywhere, even in the small town where Gilbert grew up! This book shows that when you see a rainbow flag, you'll know it's okay to be your colorful self. Includes a Note to Parents and Caregivers with more about Gilbert and the flag's history.
PRIDE: The Story of Harvey Milk and the Rainbow Flag (by Rob Sanders)
Traces the life of the Gay Pride Flag, from its beginnings with social activist Harvey Milk and designer Gilbert Baker to its spanning of the globe and its role in today's world.
Everything You Say About Me That’s Wonderful is True (by Dr. Casey)
An A to Z prescription for happiness! With the help of his friends, both human and doggy, this book is an alphabetical adventure through 26 poems and pictures of positive qualities we all possess.
Beauty Woke (by NoNieqa Ramos)
Beauty is a Puerto Rican girl loved and admired by her family and community. At first, she's awake to their beauty, and her own - a proud Boricua of Taíno and African descent. But as she grows older, she sees how people who look like her are treated badly, and she forgets what makes her special. So her community bands together to help remind her of her beautiful heritage.
Love, Violet (by Charlotte Sullivan)
Only one person makes Violet's heart skip. Of all the kids in Violet's class, only one leaves her speechless: Mira, the girl with the cheery laugh who races like the wind. If only they could adventure together! But every time Violet tries to tell Mira how she feels, Violet goes shy. As Valentine's Day approaches, Violet is determined to tell Mira just how special she is.
See and listen to the book at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9NMNZcS0Y1k
Our Skin: A First Conversation about Race (by Megan Madison)
An age-appropriate introduction to the concepts of race, gender, consent, and body positivity, developed by early childhood and activism experts, combines clear text with engaging artwork to help the youngest children recognize and confront unjust actions.
Call and Response, The Story of Black Lives Matter (by Veronica Chambers)
During 2020, widespread protests rooted in the call-and-response tradition of the black community gained worldwide attention in the wake of high-profile wrongful deaths of black people. From the founders to watershed moments, follow the activists and organizers on their journeys and discover the ways that protest has been fundamental to American democracy, eventually making meaningful change.
Use of Force and the Fight Against Police Brutality (by Elliot Smith)
In 2020, police killings caught on bystander video placed US police under scrutiny and spurred activists to call for reform. Learn the history and factors behind police brutality in the US, especially in black communities.
UPDATE ON 5-23-22: The Phillips Public Library Board will meet on Thursday, May 26, 2022 at 5:05 p.m. in the City Council Room at the Municipal Center on Eyder Avenue.
The first eight titles have been released for the challenged books, which will be considered at the June meeting.
The books include Antiracist Baby, Not My Idea: A Book About Whiteness, Race Cars: A Children's Book About White Privilege, Beauty Woke, Call and Response: The Story of Black Lives Matter, Our Skin: A First Conversation About Race, When We Say Black Lives Matter, and Use of Force and the Fight Against Police Brutality.
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Tanya Marie Rodriguez was born on May 21, 1977 to James and Theresa (Lukes) Rodriguez in Berrien Springs, Michigan.
On April 6, 2022 she passed on in Rozellville, Wisconsin.
She is survived by her father, James Rodriguez, Loyal, WI; mother, Theresa Lukes, Prentice, WI; and two brothers, Jim, Wausau, WI and Shawn, Hayward, WI.
She was preceded in death by her grandparents.
A memorial service will be held on Friday, May 6, 2022 at 11 a.m. at St. John the Baptist Church in Prentice, WI. Following services, there will be a luncheon from noon until 3 p.m. at Railroad Avenue Recreational Center in Prentice.
What good is a public basketball court if there aren't any basketballs to play with at the court? That is the question that was asked by Jeff Heikkinen and his son, JJ, a few years ago. "We thought a basketball court needed basketballs," said Jeff. At that time, the Heikkinen family donated basketballs to the court.
Jeff has always had a passion for basketball. "I went to high school in Prentice and graduated in 1996. I played basketball in an era where either the boys' or girls' teams made it to State very frequently! I was fortunate enough to play on the ‘95 State team." Given Jeff's life-long love of the sport, the public basketball courts soon became a project the Heikkinens were focused on, beyond donating basketballs. "We decided to redo the backboards and make the original courts a lot nicer. We got so much community support that we decided to raise funds for another court with adjustable rims for the younger kids to be able to play," Jeff shared.
The father-son duo always had an even greater dream in mind, which was to create a 3 on 3 basketball tournament. Last year, that dream became a reality over Independence Day weekend.
"It was a great turnout with 25 teams and over 80 kids participating," Jeff remarked. "The adjustable rims made it possible for a kindergarten through third grade division, which was so fun to watch." At the event, many of the adults helped the kids sharpen their basketball skills. "The goal behind all of this was to bring the community together and share my love for basketball with the youth!" Jeff summarized. "I’m truly blessed to be able to help our youth learn this game!"
This year, the 3 on 3 basketball tournament is back. Known as Roundball Revolution, it will be held on Saturday, July 2, 2022 at 9 a.m. in Elk Lake Park. Helping Jeff put this all together is Jeff's right hand man for this event, Steve Teeters, who volunteered to help with the tournament. Steve commented on Jeff's dedication to the event, "A lot of great things have happened in our town over the past several years because of people like Jeff. He loves the area and has a passion for sports. When you put those two things together, something great can happen. I expect this event to grow and for everyone to have a great time."
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Steve isn't the only one pitching in to make Jeff's dream a reality. Jeff's wife, Heather; Jeff Moenssen; and Nathan Podeweltz are also volunteering their time. "Jeff, Nate, and Steve share my passion for local athletics, and I'm so happy they are on board to help!" Jeff added.
The tournament will have five age groups from kindergarten through 12th grade. To sign up, fill out the registration form, submit it to theroundballrevolution@gmail.com, and pay the team entry fee of $40. Each participant is required to bring at least one non-perishable food item for donation, as well. For more information, follow Roundball Revolution on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/RoundballRevolutionTourney Want to see more free news stories? "Like" our Facebook page. Don't have Facebook? Register to see free news in Price County and beyond or watch our website's home page.
SUPPORT LOCAL BUSINESSES - SHOP PRICE COUNTY FIRST: With many face cords of maple and red oak on hand and ready, there is plenty of firewood for your needs at Daryl's Firewood. Get your firewood early so you will be all set for Winter 2022. If you need quality, dry wood for your campfire, Daryl has that, too. Visit Daryl's Firewood's website or call Daryl at 715-339-6885 or 312-968-9261 for pick-up or delivery in Price County. Follow Daryl's Firewood's Facebook page.
Note: We appreciate Steve Teeters sharing these game highlights showcasing the efforts of local athletes. If anyone is interested in submitting summaries of any of the other high school sports in Price County, e-mail Contact@MyPriceCounty.com.
Games are in reverse chronological order.
May 26, 2022: "SOME THINGS STAY WITH US." People who know me understand how much passion I have for sports. The love of sports started at an early age for me and has continued throughout my life. As the baby of the family, I was fortunate to have my parents and three older siblings to teach me how to play the game, whether it was baseball, football, or basketball.
But baseball might have been my first love. My siblings, their friends, and our neighbors would occasionally play a game in the back yard and it was always so much fun. Nevermind that we may or may not have broken a neighbor's window on a towering shot past the wall of trees in front of said window. Baseball quickly became whiffle ball, but my love of the game was born.
I remember the feeling of excitement when I first tried out for little league baseball as a youngster. For whatever reason, I can still recall rushing down an elementary school hallway with my buddies to check out a bulletin board posting to see if we made a team. As luck would have it, the Prentice A's selected me to be on their team.
I had some of the best times of my young life at the Shady Rest Ball Field in Prentice. We won some, and we lost some. But win or lose, we would usually go for some Root Beer at the A&W stand in our tiny town. The ball field and the A&W stand are long gone but the memories remain. And lifelong bonds were created on the field of play.
Some things stay with us.
If I've been around sports for so long, and have experienced plenty of defeat before, why is it so hard to come up with words to write about a loss today?
This is currently where I'm at after watching the Phillips Loggers lose its Regional Finals game, 1-0, against a strong Northwood / Solon Springs team.
The game was virtually everything you wish to see as a sports fan. But someone wins and someone loses. It's how this thing works. The agony of defeat is real but it's part of the game. When we're on the other side, it's an amazing feeling.
What makes this loss so difficult is that our girls played well enough to win.
Kendall Weik pitched her guts out. She allowed just 3 hits and 2 walks while striking out 9 batters. What won't show up in the box score is how Kendall limited hard contact.
Of the balls put into play, only six reached the outfield. Three of those balls were caught for outs, and one of the three hits was a bloop single to right field.
I was also impressed how Kendall dug deep in a few spots when trailing in the count. On a couple occasions, she fell behind in the count but battled right back with strikes to even the count and then went on to record an out. She showed a lot of poise in those tense situations and over the duration of the game.
On the offensive side of the game, our girls seemed to really see the ball well in their at-bats. In fact, the team had just one strikeout for the game. When they put the ball into play, it seemed to find a glove or go just foul. Two hard hit balls were within mere inches of going for extra bases. But I guess that's why they say baseball (or softball) is a game of inches.
The girls actually outhit Northwood / Solon Springs, 4-3, and just seemed to not have any luck on their side tonight.
Beyond the slight advantage in pitching and hitting for Phillips, the Loggers' defense was simply incredible. Two plays immediately come to mind.
In the top of the fifth inning, Northwood shortstop Kyra Latvala drew a lead-off walk after a six pitch battle with Weik. Knowing Northwood would try to steal a base to get a runner in scoring position in the late stages of this game, the Loggers did their best to limit Latvala's steal attempts. Catcher Megan DeLeasky took command in this situation and was able to keep Latvala at first base while Kendall Weik worked her way through the next two batters with a strikeout and a fly ball to left field.
Northwood Solon Springs' #8 hitter, Lily Borst came to bat, quickly falling behind Weik, 1-2 in the count.
On the forth pitch of the at-bat, Latvala finally took off for second base on a steal attempt, but DeLeasky fired a missile to Jada Eggebrecht at second base for the final out of the inning. The throw and tag were absolutely electrifying. It's something we've seen before from DeLeasky but in that spot, it was just amazing.
The other play that has to be mentioned happened in top of the sixth inning.
Lily Borst would again come to bat and would reach base with a hit by pitch. Again, the team would have to find a way to work out of trouble with the score tied, 0-0, and nobody out.
Annika Patrick would then fly out to Weik on a bunt attempt for the first out.
Moments later, Borst would advance to second base on a passed ball and would also take third base on a ball that got away from DeLeasky.
With just one out and the go-ahead run standing at third base, Emme Golembiewski came to bat. The Northwood catcher sent a well hit fly ball to center field. But what happened next was perhaps the finest play I've ever seen a high school outfielder make.
Center fielder Alie Williams made the play of the year when she caught the Golembiewski fly and threw a one-hop dime to home plate where Megan DeLeasky applied the tag to a sliding Borst for the final out of the inning. The play was executed to perfection. Alie waited on the ball before charging ahead to get forward momentum on her throw. The ball was hit with good depth so I was not actually expecting a play at the plate. Williams had other ideas though. The play from the emerging star sent Phillips to the bottom of the seventh with a chance to tie or win.
Things got off to an excellent start as Paige Edwards led off the final frame with a tailing double down the right field line.
Mataya Eckert would enter as a courtesy runner for Edwards, and the team had something going.
Brianna Guzinski came up to bat in a familiar position where she has thrived this year, and that is hitting with runners in scoring position. Guzinski led the team in RBIs this year by coming up big in clutch situations. This time, Guzinski did her job to perfection as she laid down a perfect sacrifice bunt to advance Eckert to third base.
With one out, Kendall Weik would ground to third base with Eckert charging towards home. Unfortunately, a sliding Eckert would be tagged at home plate for the second out, and Megan DeLeasky would fly out to first base to end the once promising rally.
So many incredible things happened this season and even in defeat tonight, this team should hold its head high.
The future remains bright and this team will grow from experience like this.
To the senior players, thank you for three amazing years that have helped sustain a culture of winning in Phillips. This program has emerged as one of very best in the area thanks to your contributions. Be proud of your accomplishments. Few others can even come close to the level of excellence you have enjoyed with hard work and dedication.
And always remember the good times like I remember my time on the diamond. Remember, some things stay with us. Let those things be the good times and amazing memories.
Thanks again for allowing me to witness your journey and to be a part of this special group.
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May 25, 2022: A superb season for the Phillips Loggers softball team got a little bit sweeter this week when Marawood North All-Conference selections were announced.
Kendall Weik was chosen as the Marawood North Conference Player of the Year and was one of five Loggers players chosen for First Team All-Conference honors.
Weik, Jada Eggebrecht, Brianna Guzinski, Megan DeLeasky, and Paige Edwards all garnered First Team All-Conference recognition. Eggebrecht and DeLeasky joined Weik as unanimous selections.
Landing more than half of a starting roster on a First Team All-Conference list is amazing, but the Loggers accomplished something even more astonishing when all nine starters received some form of All-Conference recognition.
Jensen Weik, Kacy Eggebrecht, and Alie Williams were chosen to Second Team All-Conference and Brooke Eckert received Honorable Mention. Eckert was just one point shy of Second Team recognition.
Not surprisingly, Blake Edwards was selected as Coach of the Year. Edwards was Coach of the Year last season, as well.
Individual accolades are typically a bi-product of team success. But each of these girls - and the team as a whole - has played their part brilliantly on their way to another conference title and a #1 seed in the ongoing playoffs.
The team's identity has been forged with excellent pitching, strong defense, and the execution of fundamentals. The All-Conference recognition is a reflection of that identity.
Starting with pitching, Kendall Weik was sensational for the Loggers. The junior phenom dominated on her way to a 6-0 record in Marawood North conference play. In just over 33 innings pitched against Marawood North opponents, Weik accumulated a whopping 62 strikeouts. The raw counting stats would only grow more impressive if Phillips played in more 7 inning games. But the team usually finishes games in five innings. Weik's Strikeout Per 7 Innings (K/7) rate is 13/7. That's 13 strikeouts per 7 inning game!
In the past month alone, Weik has pitched a no hitter against Prentice as well as a 17 strikeout gem against last year's Marawood North co-champion, the Athens Bluejays. No matter who she faced, she excelled. Including games against Marawood South teams and other non-conference matchups, Weik went 10-0 with 97 strikeouts and just 15 walks in 63 innings pitched.
Weik's journey to prominence has not been without obstacles, however. Weik lost her freshman season in 2020 to COVID, and most of her sophomore campaign was also lost to a knee injury sustained while playing basketball for the Loggers basketball team. Weik tore the ACL, MCL, and meniscus in her knee in December of 2020. The injury required two surgeries and she is now 14 months removed from her last procedure. The journey to get to this point is incredible and so satisfying to see her emerge through so much adversity.
Behind Weik, the team is bolstered with amazing defense and fundamentally sound execution.
Jada Eggebrecht could be referred to as a five-tool player since she possesses five rare physical tools (speed, throwing, fielding, hitting for average, and hitting for power). But what makes her even more rare is her selflessness and quiet yet effective demeanor. She raises the level of her teammates by simply leading by example. She could play any position at a high level, but she is most valuable for the Loggers at shortstop.
This year, Eggebrecht batted .455 in Marawood North conference play and led the team in runs with 13 as well as drawing 8 walks. For the entire season, Jada paced the team with 23 runs while also driving in 18 runs on her 25 hits. Jada also had two home runs this season to share the team lead and had 8 extra base hits. Last year, Jada was the conference player of the year while pitching for the Loggers. Jada has also been a first team all conference selection all three years a team was chosen.
Brianna Guzinski joins Eggebrecht as a three-time selection to the All-Conference team, but this time she broke through as a First Team selection. Guzinski led the Loggers with 16 RBI while also batting a robust .423 in Marawood North conference play. For the entire season, Brianna had 13 runs and 20 RBI on 19 hits. Ten of her 19 hits went for extra bases. Brianna also played elite defense at first base. The senior has been a Second Team selection twice before.
Megan DeLeasky also returns as a repeat First Team unanimous selection at catcher. The junior is another versatile player that could shine at most positions but is especially valuable behind home plate. DeLeasky has made numerous jaw-dropping throws this season to erase base runners, and she has provided plenty of firepower while generally batting sixth in the Logger lineup. Megan had two home runs on the year and is always a major threat on the bases. DeLeasky racked up 18 hits, 20 runs and 12 RBI over the entire season. Ten of her 18 hits went for extra bases.
Rounding out the First Team All-Conference selections for Phillips is Paige Edwards. Against Marawood North foes, the newcomer led the team in hits (14) and batting average. The senior slashed her way to a ridiculous .583 batting average in those contests. The season-long totals for Edwards include a team leading 26 hits to go with 16 RBI and a .510 batting average. Paige always seemed to ignite something with her fantastic hitting and also pitched very well this season when called upon.
Jensen Weik, Kacy Eggebrecht, and Alie Williams also played spectacular defense this year on their way to Second Team All-Conference recognition. The trio of players has been recognized as All-Conference selections in back-to-back seasons. Jensen was a First Team selection last year, while Kacy Eggebrecht has been named as a two-time Second Team selection. And Alie Williams moved from Honorable Mention last year to Second Team in her sophomore year. Each of these girls, as well as Brooke Eckert (Honorable Mention), has made enormous plays when the team has absolutely needed it. They all make winning plays that largely go unnoticed but without them, the team would not have enjoyed the same level of success.
Congratulations to these talented ladies on the well-deserved recognition!
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May 24, 2022: An experienced Phillips Loggers softball team cruised to a convincing 14-1 victory over the visiting Cameron Comets Tuesday night.
The Loggers did what you'd expect from a #1 seed by taking early control of the game thanks, in large part, to a 6-run second inning that got started with a pair of walks to Kendall Weik and Megan DeLeasky.
Perhaps the battery mates were paying extra close attention earlier this week in practice when Coach Blake Edwards talked about how no-out walks or errors typically come back to haunt teams. And it's precisely what happened Tuesday night for Cameron in the second inning.
After the two walks to Weik and DeLeasky, opportunity came knocking for sophomore Alie Williams, and she cashed in with an RBI single to left field to score a sliding Lily Miller (courtesy runner for Weik).
Kacy Eggebrecht followed with a bunt single to score DeLeasky and would advance to second base on a throwing error. This momentum further ignited the Loggers' offense, and continued when Jada Eggebrecht singled to center field to score her sister, Kacy, from second base.
Jada would then steal third base with Jensen Weik laying down a terrific sacrifice bunt later in the at-bat to score a sliding Eggebrecht at home.
Paige Edwards would then single to right field with Mataya Eckert entering as her courtesy runner. The speedy Eckert then stole second base and advanced to third on a bad throw from the catcher.
Brianna Guzinski followed with an RBI-single to left field to stretch the lead to 6-0 before Cameron was able to record the last out of the second inning.
Ten Loggers would bat in the second inning, and the girls would really seize control early.
Kendall Weik would then pitch a quick third inning, and the Loggers continued the onslaught with another 6-run inning in their half of the third.
A lead-off walk to a very disciplined Megan DeLeasky would be the catalyst for another big inning. DeLeasky would quickly advance to second base on a passed ball with Brooke Eckert at the plate.
Eckert then delivered an RBI-single to left field to score DeLeasky while Brooke alertly advanced to third base on a 2-base throwing error.
This sequence would really open the floodgates with consecutive hits from Alie Williams, both Eggebrecht sisters, Jensen Weik, and Paige Edwards during the 6-run third inning.
The Loggers would send 11 batters to the plate in the third to go through the lineup in back-to-back innings while taking a commanding 12-0 lead through three innings.
The offensive outburst would easily be enough for an efficient Kendall Weik as the Loggers starter pitched 4 innings, scattering 2 hits and 3 walks while striking out 9 batters.
Paige Edwards was just as effective in relief of Weik in the fifth inning. A lead-off error to start the fifth would result in the only run for Cameron on the night.
The Loggers tallied 14 hits and execution was excellent tonight.
Jada Eggebrecht led the way with a 4 for 4 night to go with 3 runs and an RBI.
Paige Edwards continued to swing a hot bat going 3 for 4 with an RBI.
The team also got a big night from Alie Williams as the center fielder went 2 for 3, with 2 runs and an RBI.
The entire lineup is really starting to heat up at the right time. And they'll need to continue to execute this Thursday. The girls will face Northwood/Solon Springs at home. Northwood/Solon Springs is the #4 seed.
Good job, ladies! And good luck this Thursday!
May 16, 2022: When the final out was recorded and the Phillips Loggers softball team converged in front of its visiting dugout, the first two words Coach Blake Edwards shared with his squad were, "Welcome back." Those two words seemed appropriate as the Loggers got some of its swag back by defeating the Medford Raiders, 3-0. This victory came just three days after a less than memorable win against Marathon. It was a signature win against one of the better teams in the state and it came at a perfect time.
The Loggers were hoping for a "get right" game in their regular season finale. They sure "got right" tonight behind strong pitching, outstanding defense, and superb situational hitting. Simply put, when the team had to have it, they got it.
After 1-2-3 innings for each team in the first, the Loggers got something going in the top of the second inning when Kendall Weik drew a 1-out walk.
Freshman Lily Miller entered as a courtesy runner for Weik and would advance to second base after a throwing error by Raiders catcher Eryka Seidl.
With two out in the inning, and Miller at second base, the stage was set for sophomore Brooke Eckert. Batting #7 in the Loggers lineup, Eckert delivered in the clutch with an RBI single to right field to score Miller for the first run of the game.
Medford retired the next batter to avoid further damage, trailing 1-0.
Loggers pitcher Kendall Weik worked quickly through the Raiders batting order as she would allow only one base runner through three innings.
Moving to the bottom of the fourth inning, and Phillips clinging to a 1-0 lead, the Raiders would get its first hit off of Weik when junior Allie Paulson served a single to center field on the seventh pitch of the at-bat.
Laurissa Klapatauskas would come to the plate in one of the pivotal moments of the game.
Klapatauskas sent a drive to the left center field gap that would be tracked down by speedy Alie Williams. The sophomore center fielder saw Paulson digging around second base attempting to reach third and fired an absolute dart to Kacy Eggebrecht where she would apply the tag to a sliding Paulson at third base for a momentum shifting play and the first out. The throw and tag were both executed with textbook precision.
Still, the Raiders had a serious threat mounting with Klapatauskas at second (advancing on the Williams throw to third base) and only one out.
Medford senior Rynn Ruesch came up for the Raiders and worked the count to 3-1 before sending a ground ball towards Loggers shortstop Jada Eggebrecht. Looking back, Klapatauskas at second base, Eggebrecht threw to Brianna Guzinski at first base, but the throw was not in time to retire Ruesch. As Eggebrecht threw, Klapatauskas aggressively attempted to advance to third base but was not aware of Guzinski's cannon-like throwing arm. The senior first basemen would rifle a perfect throw across the infield to Kacy Eggebrecht just in time to apply the tag for the second out. Again, perfect execution and awareness by everyone involved on the play.
With two out now recorded, and momentum heavily swung in Phillips' favor, Kendall Weik was able strike out Makala Ulrich to end the threat for Medford in the fourth.
Each team would go quietly in the fifth in a game that was shaping up as a pitching duel between Kendall Weik and Klapatauskas.
With just two hits through five innings, Phillips was able to solve some of the mystery with Klapatauskas in the sixth.
Jensen Weik led off with a single blooped over first base that was followed with another single by the steady hitting machine that is Paige Edwards. Each base runner would move station to station at first and second.
Guzinski would then follow with a sacrifice bunt that was mishandled by Medford to force a bases loaded situation with nobody out.
Kendall Weik would look to help her cause in a big spot. Trailing 1-2 in the count, Weik fouled off two more balls before rolling a ground ball towards shortstop Allie Paulson. Paulson fired the ball to home plate but the throw was late for the charging Jensen Weik. Phillips would go up 2-0 and still nobody out.
Klapatauskas would get Megan DeLeasky to pop up for the first out (infield fly rule), which brought Brooke Eckert to the plate with one out.
Again, Eckert delivered in the clutch. This time, she served a sac fly to left field, scoring Paige Edwards from third base to extend the lead to 3-0. This was situational hitting at its finest.
Medford would retire the next batter and head to the bottom of the sixth inning looking for an answer.
After Weik issued a leadoff walk to Morgan Huegli, it looked like Medford might be in business again, but Weik got Paulson to fly out to center field for the first out.
In a critical juncture of the game, a star player made a star play when shortstop Jada Eggebrecht robbed Klapatauskas of a base hit when she made a diving stab just inches off the ground in a full extension to erase any chance for a rally. From there, Weik was able to record the final four outs with little trouble and the team improved to 15-2.
It was a complete team effort for Phillips as they manufactured three runs out of just four hits and four walks while playing fantastic defense and executing brilliantly when the situation required it.
Brooke Eckert had a night to remember, going 1 for 2 with two huge RBIs.
Kendall Weik also pitched a dandy. The junior went all 7 innings, allowing just 3 hits and 2 walks, while striking out 7 batters.
This is something to build on and to gain confidence as the playoffs start next week for this special team.
Phillips will play next Tuesday at home against the winner of the Ladysmith - Cameron regional game. Game time is TBD. Come to the park to cheer on these ladies!
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May 13, 2022: 17-14. That sounds like a football score in a game that features strong defense. But, tonight, that's what the softball scoreboard read when the final out was made in Phillips as the Lady Loggers held on to beat a struggling Marathon Red Raiders team in a game that might be best described as sloppy.
On a night that celebrated a memorable class of senior players that prides itself on strong defense and fundamentals, the team committed numerous errors, (four, by this bookkeeper's count, with at least two others that could have been added), that made winning much more difficult than the Loggers might have first imagined. Marathon came into play with a record of 3-14.
The team was narrowly able to overcome the sloppy play by scoring a season-high 17 runs. It should be noted that five of these runs came via wild pitch or a passed ball at home plate. The Loggers were also helped out with 12 walks issued by Red Raider pitching.
In a common theme of late, the Loggers found themselves trailing 2-0 in the first inning.
Red Raider leadoff hitter Jada Prihoda reached on a single to center field and was able to advance to second base after a possible double-play ball was hit to Kacy Eggebrecht but was mishandled by the typically sure-handed Jensen Weik for a force out at second base. Both runners were safe and would later score thanks to a Delaney Lang 2-out single to right field.
Kendall Weik was able to strike out Kali Prihoda to escape further damage in the top of the first.
The Loggers then came to bat in the bottom of the first and would turn two hits and two walks into four runs.
Jensen Weik singled and was advanced to second base after Paige Edwards drew a walk. Brianna Guzinski would follow with a walk of her own, which brought Kendall Weik to the plate with the bases loaded and one out. Kendall would score her sister Jensen on a fielder's choice to second base.
Megan DeLeasky followed with a walk that turned into a double when she advanced to second base with some aggressive base running after Prihoda issued a wild pitch on Ball Four. DeLeasky would again be a terror on the base paths by scoring from second base behind Lily Miller on a wild pitch with Brooke Eckert at bat. Eckert would make the final out of the inning on a ground-out to second base.
The Red Raiders then answered the Loggers 4-run first with five runs in the second. This time, two walks, three singles, and a wild pitch would be the culprit for the big inning.
Ella Mader delivered a 2-out single to left field to score two, which was followed up with an RBI single to center field from Sophia Tylinski. Tylinski would later score on a passed ball / wild pitch for Marathon's final run in the second inning.
Things only got crazier as the Loggers would send 15 batters to the plate in the bottom of the second. Seven walks and several passed balls were issued in the frame, and the Loggers cashed in with 10 runs to open a seemingly comfortable lead at 14-7. In that big inning, just three base runners reached with hits; a double each from Guzinski and DeLeasky to go with a single from Kendall Weik.
Marathon picked up another run in the third but Phillips answered with three more runs to go up 17-8.
The score would remain 17-8 as Paige Edwards came in to relieve Kendall Weik to work a quick forth inning.
Needing just one run to expand the score to enforce the 10-run rule, the Loggers were not able to capitalize in the fifth and sixth innings while Jada Eggebrecht pitched in relief of Edwards.
The inability to push one more runner across home plate turned out to be a major storyline as Marathon would string together 5 consecutive hits to start the seventh. The Red Raiders would collect six hits in the inning on their way to a 6-run rally. The Loggers also committed three errors in the deciding frame, which forced Kendall Weik to re-enter as pitcher to close the door on Marathon for good.
It was a wild game and hopefully one the girls will put behind them and learn from.
The Loggers will have a chance to get rid of a bad taste in their mouths next Monday in Medford as the two highly ranked teams square-off for a second time this season. Phillips defeated Medford 2-0 on April 11th. Medford (17-3) was recently #7 in the state Division 2 rankings. Phillips (14-3) was recently #5 in Division 4. Good luck to the teams as they meet again.
May 12, 2022: The Phillips Loggers softball team earned a hard-fought 12-6 victory against a scrappy Rib Lake Lady Redmen team on Thursday to improve to 13-2 on the season.
The win came one day after Phillips earned a #1 playoff seed and just three days after clinching an outright conference championship against these same Lady Redmen.
Once again, the Loggers would hand the ball back to their ace, Kendall Weik. The talented junior pitcher fired a no-hitter against Rib Lake on Monday but had a lot more adversity in this one.
Leading 4-0 entering the bottom half of the second inning, Weik and the Loggers ran into some trouble against a host of Lady Redmen hitters.
Josie Scheithauer would lead off the second inning with a nine-pitch at bat before earning a walk against the stingy Weik. Two bloop singles into shallow right field by Tessa Krause and Emily Rodman would push Scheithauer across for Rib Lake’s first run. It was the start of a big inning for Rib Lake, as they would send 11 batters to the plate in the inning. The Lady Redmen would tally five hits and two walks before the Loggers would finally get out of the inning, trailing 5-4.
Needing an answer to the big inning for Rib Lake, Megan DeLeasky led off the third inning with a single to left field. The speedy junior would steal second base and later advance to third base on a passed ball. Brooke Eckert would then ground out to third base, scoring DeLeasky for Phillips’ lone run in the third to draw even, 5-5.
Phillips would push one run across the plate in each of the next three innings, while the Lady Redmen would pick up a run in the sixth to pull within two, 8-6, as the teams headed for the final inning.
The Loggers finally put the game away with a 4-run seventh. Most of the damage came on a 3-run homer for Kendall Weik. It was the first home run of the year for Weik.
Paige Edwards pitched the final inning and two-thirds, limiting Rib Lake to one run on three hits.
The Loggers owned the hit column, 12-10, while also adding 13 walks in the contest. Jada Eggebrecht led the way once again with a 1 for 3 night, including 3 walks, 3 runs, 3 stolen bases, and an RBI.
The Loggers host the Marathon Red Raiders (3-14) Friday night. It will be senior night. Come on out and celebrate this group of seniors and the team as a whole. Game time is 4:45 p.m.
May 10, 2022: Kendall Weik threw a no-hitter to lead the Phillips Loggers to a Marawood North Conference Championship tonight by defeating the Rib Lake Lady Redmen, 11-0.
Weik was clearly dominant once again, striking out 10 batters, including an impressive 8 batter stretch.
As is usually the case, someone has to make a special play in the field to help keep a no-hitter alive. Tonight, that distinction belongs to Kacy Eggebrecht. The outstanding third baseman climbed the proverbial ladder to rip extra bases away from Kyla Kennedy on a rocket seemingly destined for left field, keeping the no-hitter intact through four innings.
Weik actually carried a perfect game into the fifth inning but lost the bid after she walked Danielle Mann with one out in the frame. That was the only blemish on the night for the Loggers' ace.
The Loggers also had an excellent night batting, led by Brianna Guzinski and Megan DeLeasky.
Guzinski went 2 for 3 with a run and 4 RBI. The senior first baseman had a 2-RBI triple to get the Loggers on the board in the first inning, scoring Jensen Weik and Paige Edwards on the play.
DeLeasky also went 2 for 3 with a run and an RBI. The junior catcher led off the third inning with a towering bomb over the left-center field wall. The home run is DeLeasky's second of the season.
The Loggers posted 12 hits on the evening in a very balanced attack.
Congratulations to Coach Blake Edwards on his first outright conference championship!
The Loggers will travel to Rib Lake this Thursday to face the Lady Redmen again. Game time is 4:45 p.m.
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May 6, 2022: The Loggers softball team came up short tonight on the road against a talented Edgar Wildcat squad, falling 5-1.
Phillips was red hot coming into action with an 11-1 record, thanks in large part to a ten game win streak; while Edgar was 6-3 overall entering the game.
The Wildcats turned to sophomore pitcher Makayla Wirkus, fresh off of 14 strikeout game against Newman Catholic this week while Phillips countered with senior pitcher Paige Edwards.
Similar to last night's game with Athens, the Loggers found themselves trailing 2-0 after one inning and Wirkus managed to work out of two jams in the first and third innings.
Trailing 5-0 in the sixth, Jensen Weik led off with a swinging bunt to get something going for the Loggers as the hot hitting Edwards stepped to the plate. Edwards promptly dumped a single into shallow right field to advance Weik to third base.
With runners at the corners and just one out, Kendall Weik delivered an RBI single to left center field to score her sister Jensen. Unfortunately, this would be the only run in the Loggers rally attempt as Wirkus retired the next two batters before working a quick seventh inning to end the game.
The Loggers posted six hits on the evening, led by a 3 for 3 night from Edwards.
The Loggers' next game is Monday at home against Rib Lake at 4:45 p.m. A win will secure a Marawood North Conference Championship, so come on out to the ballpark and get behind this great group of girls!
May 5, 2022: The Loggers softball team is one step closer to winning a conference championship tonight after defeating the Athens Bluejays, 7-3.
The team found itself in an early hole after allowing two runs in the first inning and later trailed 3-0 after the 4th inning.
It wasn't until the top of the 6th inning before Phillips would finally have a base runner, but Brooke Eckert set the table for a dramatic comeback after drawing a leadoff walk in the frame.
With Eckert at first base, fellow sophomore, Alie Williams, came to the plate and laced a 2-strike RBI triple to the left-center field gap to cut the deficit to two runs.
Kacy Eggebrecht then followed with an infield single to score Williams, which brought Jada Eggebrecht to the plate with a chance to draw even. The uber-talented senior delivered with a clutch RBI double to the left-center field gap to tie the game, 3-3.
Jensen Weik then laid down a beautiful sacrifice bunt to advance Jada to third base.
With one out in the sixth inning, Paige Edwards came to bat with a chance to score Eggebrecht from third base. In a crazy sequence of events, Edwards dumped a ball over the first baseman's head that initially appeared to be caught by the ranging second baseman in a diving attempt near the foul line. Eggebrecht advanced for the apparent go-ahead run but quickly retreated back to third base due to the uncertainty of a clear catch. After the umpires sorted out the play, Edwards was ruled out at first, and Eggebrecht still stood at third base.
Senior Brianna Guzinski then delivered in the clutch with a two-out RBI single to shallow right field, which gave Phillips its first lead, 4-3. Athens was then able to escape the inning without further damage, now trailing by one run after the Loggers huge rally.
In the bottom of the sixth inning, Athens had a scoring opportunity with a runner at first base and one out. Kendall Weik struck out the next Bluejay batter, and, two plays later, catcher Megan DeLeasky made one of the biggest plays of the game when she threw an absolute laser to second base to record a "caught stealing" to end the Athens scoring threat.
With momentum now clearly on the Loggers' side, the team came up to bat in the top of the seventh inning.
Brooke Eckert again led off the inning, this time with a single to left field. Senior Emily Schultz executed a near perfect sacrifice bunt to advance Eckert to second base. The team followed with more timely hitting and execution.
With two out in the top of the seventh, Jada Eggebrecht was intentionally walked in front of Jensen Weik. Weik followed with a hit towards shortstop, but the throw to third base was errant, and Eckert aggressively advanced for the sliding run at home plate. Weik was safe at second base on the fielder's choice, and Eggebrecht advanced to third base. Paige Edwards delivered the knockout punch with 2-RBI double to finish the Loggers scoring.
Kendall Weik retired the side in the seventh inning to close the game. Weik allowed 8 hits, 2 earned runs, and struck out 9 batters.
The Loggers recorded 7 hits on the night, all coming in the crucial sixth and seventh innings.
Phillips travels to Edgar tomorrow and will face Rib Lake in Phillips next Monday for a chance to earn a conference championship. Game time is 4:45 p.m. on Monday, May 9, 2022.
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May 3, 2022: Kendall Weik was utterly dominant on the mound tonight in leading the Loggers softball team to a 2-0 victory against the rival Athens Bluejays. The Loggers ace allowed just 3 hits and struck out an astonishing 17 batters in the game.
The talented junior has been pitching lights-out all season but tonight was her finest moment. Every pitch had the intensity you'd expect from a rivalry game and she delivered an electrifying performance in the pivotal Marawood North matchup.
Helping her cause, Weik went 1 for 2 with one run and an RBI double. Kendall led off the 5th inning with a walk before scoring her run on an error with two outs already made. That was all she needed as she shut down the Bluejays the rest of the way.
Also leading the way was her batterymate, Megan DeLeasky. The junior catcher delivered 2 of the Loggers 4 hits while reaching base safely in all three of her at bats.
The team is now 10-1 on the season and will travel to Athens this Thursday for a game that could go a long way towards securing an outright conference championship for the Loggers. Best of luck to the team!
April 29, 2022: Another strong performance by the Loggers softball team tonight as they took care of business against the Stratford Tigers, winning by a score of 15-2. Jada Eggebrecht had another stellar performance by collecting another 3 hits, 3 runs, and an RBI. It seems like these girls all take turns with huge contributions, and tonight it was Megan DeLeasky's turn. The talented junior catcher went 3 for 3 with 3 runs and 4 RBIs. She launched an absolute bomb for her first home run of the season to go with a double while playing strong defense behind the plate. The Loggers had 13 hits on the night. Excellent performance, Ladies!
April 28, 2022: The Lady Loggers softball team continued to roll tonight in their convincing sweep of the Chequamegon Screaming Eagles. The Loggers won each game, 11-0.
Jada Eggebrecht just keeps getting hotter at the plate. In Game One, she went 2 for 3 with two no-doubt home runs and 4 RBI. Paige Edwards also stayed hot at the plate, going 3 for 3. And Brianna Guzinski went 2 for 3 with 3 RBI and her first homer of the year. The girls collected 13 hits in Game One.
In Game Two, Jada went 3 for 4 with two runs. Alie Williams went 2 for 3 with 3 RBI. And Paige Edwards pitched an efficient game, limiting Chequamegon to one hit. The Loggers tallied 9 hits in their 11-0 Game Two win.
There's lots to be excited about with the way this team is coming together.
