<![CDATA[My Northern Wisconsin - News: Countywide]]>

<![CDATA[My Northern Wisconsin - News: Countywide]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/ Thu, 05 Nov 2026 18:48:13 +0000 MyBB <![CDATA[NOVEMBER 2026 UNOFFICIAL GENERAL ELECTION RESULTS]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-889.html Wed, 04 Nov 2026 04:47:13 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-889.html
.jpg

electionresults.jpg (Size: 24.57 KB / Downloads: 564)

The following results are the unofficial November 3, 2026, election results in Price County, along with the overall winner being named.

Percentage of Registered Voters in Price County Who Voted: 6966 / 9394 = 74.2%

Town of Elk: 623 / 762 = 81.8%
Town of Knox: 190 / 233 = 81.5%
Town of Harmony: 117 / 147 = 79.6%
Town of Catawba: 143 / 180 = 79.4%
Town of Emery: 165 / 208 = 79.3%
Town of Fifield: 557 / 712 = 78.2%
Town of Hill: 214 / 274 = 78.1%
Town of Lake: 643 / 834 = 77.1%
Town of Eisenstein: 335 / 437 = 76.7%
Town of Worcester: 880 / 1159 = 76%
Town of Prentice: 225 / 306 = 73.53%
Town of Flambeau: 302 / 411 = 73.47%
Town of Ogema: 354 / 484 = 73.1%
Village of Catawba: 62/86 = 72.1%
City of Park Falls: 863 / 1226 = 70.4%
Town of Georgetown: 68 / 97 = 70.1%
Town of Spirit: 178 / 256 = 69.53%
Village of Prentice: 237 / 345 = 68.7%
Town of Hackett: 95 / 142 = 66.9%
Town of Kennan: 140 / 211 = 66.4%
City of Phillips: 519 / 794 = 65.4%
Village of Kennan: 56/90 = 62.2%

GOVERNOR
Tom Tiffany / David Varnam - Price County: 4415
David Crowley / Sarah Godlewski - Price County: 2504 - OVERALL WINNER
Ieshuh Griffin (Reg write-in)
Jamie Jo Carothers (Reg write-in)
David D. King (Reg write-in)
Chad Muellenberg (Reg write-in)
Mary Morgan (Reg write-in)
Mark Grimek (Reg write-in)
Christine Kirchmiller (Reg write-in)
Reese Woods/Daniel Wagner (Reg write-in)
Brayden Donnelly (Reg write-in)

ATTORNEY GENERAL
Eric Toney - Price County: 4271
Josh Kaul - Price County: 2599 - OVERALL WINNER

SECRETARY OF STATE
Jay Schroeder - Price County: 4291
JoCasta Zamarripa - Price County: 2332- OVERALL WINNER
Pete Karas - Price County: 218
Michael Chianese (Reg Write-in) - Price County: 0

STATE TREASURER
John S. Leiber - Price County: 4433
Yee Leng Xiong - Price County: 2383 - OVERALL WINNER
Joseph Kexel (Reg Write-in) - Price County: 0

REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS DISTRICT 7
Michael Alfonso - Price County: 4172 - OVERALL WINNER
Fred Clark - Price County: 2735

STATE SENATE DISTRICT 23
Romaine Robert Quinn - Price County: 4220 - OVERALL WINNER
Jeff Foster - Price County: 2601

REPRESENTATIVE TO THE ASSEMBLY DISTRICT 68
Rob Summerfield - Price County: 4366 - OVERALL WINNER
Elisha King - Price County: 2483

PRICE COUNTY SHERIFF
Robert Hawn 5789 - OVERALL WINNER

PRICE COUNTY CORONER
Amy Casey 5885 - OVERALL WINNER

PRICE COUNTY CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT
Amy Walker 5731 - OVERALL WINNER

STATE REFERENDUM: QUESTION #1 (Partial veto for taxes or fees)
Yes 4122 - OVERALL WINNER
No 2417

STATE REFERENDUM: QUESTION #2 (Closing of churches)
Yes 4010
No 2562 - OVERALL WINNER

STATE REFERENDUM: QUESTION #3 (No discrimination or preferential treatment)
Yes 4338 - OVERALL WINNER
No 2180

SPECIAL ELECTION - COUNTY SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
Preston Scheuermann 476 - OVERALL WINNER]]>
.jpg

1-1.jpg (Size: 213.79 KB / Downloads: 80)

.jpg

1-2.jpg (Size: 355.22 KB / Downloads: 101)

.jpg

1-3.jpg (Size: 368.3 KB / Downloads: 99)
W4598 State Highway 86, Ogema

.jpeg

2-2.jpeg (Size: 266.69 KB / Downloads: 106)

.jpeg

2-3.jpeg (Size: 220.55 KB / Downloads: 79)
614 Flambeau Avenue, Phillips

.jpeg

3-1.jpeg (Size: 422.26 KB / Downloads: 101)

.jpeg

3-2.jpeg (Size: 358.72 KB / Downloads: 101)
266 S Lake Avenue, Phillips

.jpg

4.jpg (Size: 129.51 KB / Downloads: 78)
478 Argyle Avenue, Phillips

.jpg

5.jpg (Size: 234.43 KB / Downloads: 98)
505 Argyle Avenue, Phillips

.jpg

6.jpg (Size: 158.9 KB / Downloads: 81)
277 Argyle Avenue, Phillips

.jpg

7.jpg (Size: 229.88 KB / Downloads: 79)
205 Argyle Avenue, Phillips

[Image: deercreekangus.jpg]

10.jpg (Size: 254.28 KB / Downloads: 97)
465 Argyle, Phillips

.jpg

8.jpg (Size: 174.92 KB / Downloads: 79)
254 Avon Avenue, Phillips

.jpg

9-1.jpg (Size: 74.21 KB / Downloads: 78)

.jpg

9-2.jpg (Size: 87.54 KB / Downloads: 78)
244 Shaw Street, Phillips

[Image: statewidesewing.jpg]

1-1.jpg (Size: 213.79 KB / Downloads: 80)

.jpg

1-2.jpg (Size: 355.22 KB / Downloads: 101)

.jpg

1-3.jpg (Size: 368.3 KB / Downloads: 99)
W4598 State Highway 86, Ogema

.jpeg

2-2.jpeg (Size: 266.69 KB / Downloads: 106)

.jpeg

2-3.jpeg (Size: 220.55 KB / Downloads: 79)
614 Flambeau Avenue, Phillips

.jpeg

3-1.jpeg (Size: 422.26 KB / Downloads: 101)

.jpeg

3-2.jpeg (Size: 358.72 KB / Downloads: 101)
266 S Lake Avenue, Phillips

.jpg

4.jpg (Size: 129.51 KB / Downloads: 78)
478 Argyle Avenue, Phillips

.jpg

5.jpg (Size: 234.43 KB / Downloads: 98)
505 Argyle Avenue, Phillips

.jpg

6.jpg (Size: 158.9 KB / Downloads: 81)
277 Argyle Avenue, Phillips

.jpg

7.jpg (Size: 229.88 KB / Downloads: 79)
205 Argyle Avenue, Phillips

[Image: deercreekangus.jpg]

10.jpg (Size: 254.28 KB / Downloads: 97)
465 Argyle, Phillips

.jpg

8.jpg (Size: 174.92 KB / Downloads: 79)
254 Avon Avenue, Phillips

.jpg

9-1.jpg (Size: 74.21 KB / Downloads: 78)

.jpg

9-2.jpg (Size: 87.54 KB / Downloads: 78)
244 Shaw Street, Phillips

[Image: statewidesewing.jpg]

Statewide Sewing is your local source for your sewing needs, plus Packers & Bears merchandise and Hayden Lane hats. Visit Statewide Sewing's website for new & used sewing machines, sewing parts & accessories, notions, and gifts. Shipping is free for orders over $20. For promo codes and sewing tips & memes, follow the Statewide Sewing Facebook page.]]> <![CDATA[2026 PRICE COUNTY FAIR HIGHLIGHTS]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-869.html Sun, 06 Sep 2026 09:38:25 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-869.html Palas Pyro LLC, the elephants, Dirt Dash, rides, animals, and exhibits. Click here to view the video.]]> Palas Pyro LLC, the elephants, Dirt Dash, rides, animals, and exhibits. Click here to view the video.]]> <![CDATA[AUGUST 2026 UNOFFICIAL PARTISAN PRIMARY RESULTS]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-865.html Wed, 12 Aug 2026 03:48:16 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-865.html
.jpg

electionresults.jpg (Size: 24.57 KB / Downloads: 1024)

4,584 of the 9,284 registered voters in Price County voted in the August 2026 partisan primary. The following voter totals reflect the Price County results.

REPUBLICAN PARTY

GOVERNOR

2,793 Tom Tiffany
275 Andy Manske
0 Dennis Williams (Registered write-in)

Statewide, Tom Tiffany won the Republican primary with about 95.5% of the vote.

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR

1,778 David Varnam
939 Will Martin

Statewide, David Varnam won the Republican primary with about 54.6% of the vote.

ATTORNEY GENERAL

2,364 Eric Toney

SECRETARY OF STATE

1,103 Jay Schroeder
569 Brayden Myer
459 Cindy Werner
382 Nate Pollnow

Statewide, Jay Schroeder won the Republican primary with about 46.5% of the vote.

STATE TREASURER

2,256 John S. Leiber

REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS, DISTRICT 7

1,291 Michael Alfonso
667 Kevin Hermening
644 Niina Baum
369 Jessi Ebben
54 Don Raihala

Statewide, Michael Alfonso won the Republican primary with about 48.9% of the vote.

STATE SENATE, DISTRICT 23

2,426 Romaine Robert Quinn

REPRESENTATIVE TO THE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 68

2,380 Rob Summerfield

SHERIFF

2,489 Robert Hawn
423 Waldemar Madsen III

Robert Hawn won the Republican primary.

CORONER

2,317 Amy Casey
487 Marvin D. Nevelier

Amy Casey won the Republican primary.

CLERK OF CIRCUIT COURT

2,496 Amy Walker

DEMOCRATIC PARTY

GOVERNOR

545 David Crowley
427 Francesca Hong
102 Kelda Roys
77 Sara Rodriguez
69 Mandela Barnes
48 Joel Brennan
15 Missy Hughes
0 Brett Hulsey (Registered Write-in)
0 Tim Reppen (Registered Write-in)

Statewide, David Crowley won the Democratic primary with about 39.8% of the vote.

LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR

1,174 Sarah Godlewski

ATTORNEY GENERAL

1,173 Josh Kaul

SECRETARY OF STATE

1,102 JoCasta Zamarripa

STATE TREASURER

579 Yee Leng Xiong
572 Dylan Ray Helmenstine

Statewide, Yee Leng Xiong won the Democratic primary with about 55.4% of the vote.

REPRESENTATIVE IN CONGRESS, DISTRICT 7

486 Fred Clark
385 Ginger Murray
340 Chris Armstrong

Statewide, Fred Clark won the Democratic primary with about 36.4% of the vote.

STATE SENATE, DISTRICT 23

746 Jeff Foster
376 Richard Pulcher

Statewide, this race has not been called as of the time of publication.

REPRESENTATIVE TO THE ASSEMBLY, DISTRICT 68

1,029 Elisha King

CONSTITUTION PARTY

GOVERNOR

0 Mark Grimek (Registered Write-in)

WISCONSIN GREEN PARTY

SECRETARY OF STATE

0 Pete Karas

.jpg

Flock for sale.jpg (Size: 167.29 KB / Downloads: 386) ]]>
.jpg

Flock for sale.jpg (Size: 167.29 KB / Downloads: 386) ]]> <![CDATA[PRICE COUNTY COUNTY-WIDE GARAGE SALES EVENT TO BE HELD AUGUST 6-9, 2026]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-852.html Thu, 16 Jul 2026 10:03:44 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-852.html
.png

Price County Garage Sales Event 2026 Display Ad.png (Size: 51.91 KB / Downloads: 2285)

The 3rd annual county-wide garage sales event will take place on August 6, 7, 8, & 9, 2026, for anyone with a Price County address, which includes Phillips, Park Falls, Prentice, Kennan, Catawba, Fifield, Ogema, Brantwood, southern Butternut. If you are in Price County, your sale can be listed.

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 (Thursday, Friday, Saturday, and/or Sunday) and the times you set for your garage sale, along with a short list (30 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 email to Contact@MyPriceCounty.com with "Garage Sale" as the subject line. While getting the garage sales sent via Messenger or email is preferred, you can call 715-339-6677 if you do not have access to Messenger or email. My Price County will confirm receipt of all messages and emails. The deadline for submitting your garage sale is 5 p.m. on Monday, August 3, 2026.

Anyone who hosts a garage sale can choose their days and times; no one has to host a sale on all four days unless they want to. You will need to place your own garage sale signs.

The county-wide garage sale event is being held to help promote the area. Please help us make others aware of this event by sharing this information.

Sales will be posted by the morning of August 6, 2026, at https://www.mypricecounty.com/sales.html. Save that link but realize there are no current sales listed there yet, and the full list won't be published until August 6, 2026, if not a few days sooner.

The two garage sales events will be back in June and August of 2027, so watch our website and Facebook page for details in 2027.

.png

Price County Garage Sales Event 2026 Final Flier.png (Size: 235.19 KB / Downloads: 452) ]]>
.png

Price County Garage Sales Event 2026 Final Flier.png (Size: 235.19 KB / Downloads: 452) ]]> <![CDATA[SHERIFF CANDIDATES, WALT MADSEN AND BOB HAWN, ANSWER QUESTIONS AHEAD OF ELECTION]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-851.html Mon, 13 Jul 2026 21:44:03 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-851.html
.jpg

Sheriffs Candidates.jpg (Size: 62.75 KB / Downloads: 5445)
Waldemar "Walt" Madsen III and Robert "Bob" Hawn. Submitted photos.

My Price County asked the two Price County sheriff candidates, Robert "Bob" Hawn and Waldemar "Walt" Madsen III, twelve question sets focusing on each one's background and qualifications; the “good old boys” culture and trust; complaint handling and accountability; transparency with the public and media; social media use; drug issues; domestic violence, property crime, and repeat offenders; constitutional rights; top influences; and the changes each would make if elected as sheriff.

We asked each candidate to reply in 150 words or less to each question. However, if they had more to say on one question set than another, they could go over the word count for that question but must have no more than 1,800 total words for all twelve question sets. They were each given the same time frame to answer the questions. We asked them to speak of themselves and not the other candidate. Members of the community gave us suggestions for questions, and we did our best to get each type of question answered. For each candidate, we fixed a few obvious, small issues with grammar/spelling typos (for clarity for our readers) but otherwise left their answers untouched.

ROBERT "BOB" HAWN

.jpg

Robert Hawn.jpg (Size: 39.62 KB / Downloads: 3603)
Submitted photo.

Tell us about yourself, including your family, education, connection to Price County, and the qualities that make you qualified to serve as sheriff.

My name is Robert Hawn and I am currently the Chief Deputy for the Price County Sheriff’s Office. I grew up in Butternut, Wisconsin. I graduated from Butternut High School in 2003. While still in high school, I enlisted in an infantry unit of the Wisconsin Army National Guard. In 2004, I was deployed to Forward Operating Base Mackenzie near Samarra, Iraq.

I returned from deployment in 2005 and attended college at Chippewa Valley Technical College in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. I earned an Associates Degree in criminal justice and completed the law enforcement recruit academy in 2008.

While attending college, I met my best friend and future wife, Valerie Thompson. In 2008, Valerie and I returned to Park Falls and I was hired as a patrol officer for the City of Park Falls. In 2009, I was deployed to Iraq for a second time. I then returned home and continued my career with the Park Falls Police Department. Valerie and I were married in 2011 and we were blessed with two amazing boys, Spencer and Graysen.

In 2015, I was hired by the Price County Sheriff’s Office as a patrol deputy. In 2016, I was hired as an Investigator for the Sheriff’s Office. In 2022, I was hired as the Chief Deputy and appointed Undersheriff for the Sheriff’s Office. A position I still hold today.

I am qualified to serve as Sheriff as I am the only candidate in this election who is a certified law enforcement officer in the State of Wisconsin. My honesty, integrity, and hard work ethic have been and will continue to be the foundation of my career.

I am also the only candidate in this election who has experience in patrol operations, conducting complex criminal investigations up to and including homicide investigations, managing the budget of the Sheriff’s Office responsibly, managing the day-to-day operations of the Sheriff’s Office, managing personnel, identifying and addressing the risk/liabilities that surround law enforcement, and addressing citizens questions and concerns.

Some people feel a "good old boys" system is implemented in Price County, including in the sheriff's office. What are your thoughts on that? If it does not exist, how will you change that view? If it does exist, how will you try to end it?

I do not believe a “good old boys” system exists in Price County. During my career, I have conducted investigations, served search warrants, and arrested doctors, attorneys, public officials, business owners, professional athletes, and even law enforcement officers. All of this was done with the support of the administration within the Sheriff’s Office and Price County government as a whole. The mentality has always been, “it does not matter what your perceived status in society is, the law is applicable to everyone.”

During my time in the administrative role of the Sheriff’s Office, hirings and promotions have been based upon an individual’s merit not favoritisms. On the other hand, I have conducted inquiries and investigations involving Sheriff’s Office personnel that led to discipline and/or termination even though I considered these employees my friends.

How will you build trust with people who do not normally trust law enforcement?

I hope to build trust with those who do not trust law enforcement by having a willingness to meet with those individuals and have open and honest conversations with them. I am aware actions speak louder than words. If I tell you I will do something, I will do it. If I am wrong or make a mistake, I will own up to it and learn from it.

If a complaint is made about a deputy, how will you handle the complaint, the investigation, and any discipline that may follow? How will you make sure deputies are held accountable for misconduct?

If a complaint is filed against an employee, there is a strict, policy driven process that has to be followed. This process is also consistent with Wisconsin State Statute. Once the proper complaint is received, an inquiry or investigation will be completed. If that inquiry or investigation finds the employee made a simple mistake or human error, the issue(s) will be addressed with the employee and remedial training may be implemented to prevent the mistake from occurring again. This may also cause changes to our office policy and procedures to ensure the Sheriff’s Office is providing the best possible service for all citizens of Price County. If the inquiry or investigation shows the employee acted with malicious intent or lied, discipline up to and including termination will occur.

What are the top three changes you would make in the sheriff’s office?

The top three changes I will make as Sheriff are not necessarily changes, but goals. My first goal is to provide a high level, professional law enforcement service to the citizens of Price County using the latest technology and proactive strategies, while being fiscally responsible with the citizens' tax dollars. My second goal is to improve mental health options and resources to Price County Sheriff’s Office employees. My third goal is to develop creative options that promote the recruitment and retention of employees.

How will you approach searches, seizures, and individual rights?

I will approach searches, seizures, and individual rights as I always have during my 18-year career in law enforcement and that is by following the Constitution of the United States, case law, State Statute, and the policies and procedures of the Price County Sheriff’s Office.

Will you talk with the media? Other counties generally give more press releases for more things, sooner, and with more information, plus they give follow-up information after the initial press release. Also, when My Price County / My Northern Wisconsin contacts the sheriff (via email or phone) with our questions or questions directly from citizens, (such as concerns about the Hwy. 13 and Hwy. 111/Little Chicago Road intersection and accidents, for example), they go unanswered in this county, but other county's sheriffs provide answers. Will you be willing to talk with the media about things you can answer to improve transparency with the public? How will you do so?

I do intend on speaking with the media when I become Sheriff. The extent of details in a press release and any additional follow up releases will be looked at on a case-by-case basis. The Sheriff is responsible for providing information regarding risks to public safety while still protecting the integrity of the investigation and ensuring that any potential jury is not tainted due to the details released. This also includes protecting the privacy and wishes of the victims in those cases. I don’t necessarily care what Sheriffs in other counties are releasing in their press releases. The Sheriff of Price County is only responsible for the constituents in Price County and what is in the best interests of the Price County Sheriff’s Office and the Price County court system.

A lot of people in Price County use Facebook. Will you use Facebook as a tool to understand the concerns of people in Price County and search for tips that may help law enforcement solve crimes, including crimes from long ago? How do you feel about officers making comments on Facebook against citizens when citizens post their concerns about things that are allegedly happening to them?

I am not one of those people who uses Facebook. This election has already shown that Facebook makes it very easy for people to spread negativity, lies, and misinformation without recourse. That being said, I do see how certain Facebook pages, such as the Price County Humane Officer’s page and the Price County K9’s page(s) are beneficial by being able to immediately release accurate information to the public. As Sheriff, I will not have my own Facebook page as I do not believe a Sheriff belongs hiding behind a keyboard. A Sheriff should be out among and interacting with their constituents.

In respect to employees making comments on Facebook, as long as the Facebook use is not occurring while the employee is on duty and those comments do not violate State Statute, I will not prohibit employees from expressing their thoughts or beliefs. Just because a person wears a badge, does not mean they forego their 1st Amendment right of Freedom of Speech; the same constitutional right that protects and allows press such as this to exist.

Residents are concerned about drug use in the county. How would you address Delta-8, synthetic marijuana products, marijuana, and other substance abuse problems in a way that improves safety and supports recovery? How do you feel about Delta-8, synthetics, and marijuana?

I would address Delta 8 as I always have since Price County created an ordinance prohibiting its sale/possession and that is by enforcing that ordinance. Synthetic marijuana and marijuana are prohibited by State Statute and local ordinance. Therefore, those statutes and ordinances will be enforced. The Sheriff’s Office is unique in the fact that the Sheriff is responsible for enforcing laws prohibiting drugs, but I believe the Sheriff also has a responsibility in providing recovery options in the Price County Jail. I will continue to allow recovery resources such as AA, NA, and any other programs potentially beneficial in the recovery process to be available to inmates in the Price County Jail.

I firmly believe that a law enforcement officer’s personal feeling about drugs or any other law does not matter. Law enforcement officers are expected to enforce local and state laws as they are written and/or by the interpretations provided by the Courts, not the officer’s personal feelings.

How would you handle domestic violence, property crimes, drug activity, and repeat offenders?

I will ensure that cases of domestic violence, property crimes, and drug activity are addressed by maintaining the expectation that deputies will conduct proactive patrols and complete thorough investigations all while treating victims with empathy and offenders with respect.

Who were your top influences for how you will be as a sheriff, and how did those people influence you?

Thomas Hawn, my uncle, is a retired law enforcement officer. When I was 5 years old, I saw my Uncle Tom wearing his uniform and driving his squad car. Thomas carried himself with such great pride. One day, Uncle Tom allowed me to wear his uniform, sit in his squad car, and even put the handcuffs on my brother. From that moment on, I knew what my career was going to be. Still, to this day, if I have a bad day at work, I know Uncle Tom is there for me to use as a sounding board.

Retired Chief of Police Jerry Ernst taught me what it means to be an investigator. Chief Ernst taught me the importance of being proactive, patient, and thorough in my investigations while not being afraid of trying different, “outside the box” strategies in my investigations.

Sheriff Brian Schmidt has shown, by example, what it means to be a leader. Sheriff Schmidt taught me the importance of truly knowing who your employees are on a personal level and caring for them as if they were family.

How will you make Price County better?

I did not answer this in order to keep my response under 1500 words.

Total Word Count: 1,491 of 1,800

WALDEMAR "WALT" MADSEN III

.jpg

Waldemar Madsen.jpg (Size: 68.76 KB / Downloads: 4192)
Submitted photo.

Tell us about yourself, including your family, education, connection to Price County, and the qualities that make you qualified to serve as sheriff.

My name is Waldemar Madsen, I've lived in Price County for 10 years. I have 4 children, 2 of them are adults and live out of state and 2 are children that live here. I'm am Army Combat Veteran and served as a military police officer, during that time I did regular patrol duties. Then when opportunities presented themselves I took them. I became part of a PSD Team while in Iraq OIF 5 for BG James Huggins. I then went to K9 school when I got back and did that for awhile. When I was asked to do animal control I took up that job 'til I got out of the Army.

Some people feel a "good old boys" system is implemented in Price County, including in the sheriff's office. What are your thoughts on that? If it does not exist, how will you change that view? If it does exist, how will you try to end it?

It definitely exists and it's not how will I end it but it's how the people will end it by voting for me. I am the end to those days. We will all be treated equally in this county no matter how much money people have. Status shouldn't be something you can hide behind.

How will you build trust with people who do not normally trust law enforcement?

I'm going to take an active role in the communities and school systems to ensure safety, kindness, and fairness to all citizens and upholding the rights of the people. Also making sure proper investigations are done so innocent people aren't getting in trouble when they shouldn't be.

If a complaint is made about a deputy, how will you handle the complaint, the investigation, and any discipline that may follow? How will you make sure deputies are held accountable for misconduct?

If a complaint comes in verbally or written, I will look into it right away and not make the people wait for an answer. If it comes in verbally I'll look at how the investigation was done and read the police reports to see if they were written correctly and with NO made up parts like officers have done. If I find one of my deputies has done something to a citizen, I can promise the correct actions are taken and an apology from my office and written from the deputy will happen.

What are the top three changes you would make in the sheriff’s office?

I will end what I believe are predatory behaviors, and I will uphold the rights of the people, unlike our current sheriff promised when I was on the county board. I also would like to open the door to more veterans in our county by deputizing willing veterans to be part of special units, SWAT, Drug Task Force, and Search and Rescue. I love our veterans and I want to give them their purpose back. I'd also like to take an active role in our schools to end bullying. I've talked to parents and they tell me bullying is out of control and I can make sure our students are safe and their rights are also upheld.

How will you approach searches, seizures, and individual rights?

I will never enforce unconstitutional laws ever. I have had my rights violated by this sheriff's office and as a veteran it was a slap in the face to not have my rights upheld by the people that are sworn to uphold them, that oath isn't an option and never expires. The way current searches are done is wrong, we will not go off hearsay, violate someone's privacy, and we WILL HAVE PROBABLE CAUSE OR PLAIN VIEW. Evidence is what we need to do a search and that's how its going to happen and we will have warrants, and not tell people if they cooperate, they won't be arrested. Nobody should have to cooperate under duress.

Will you talk with the media? Other counties generally give more press releases for more things, sooner, and with more information, plus they give follow-up information after the initial press release. Also, when My Price County / My Northern Wisconsin contacts the sheriff (via email or phone) with our questions or questions directly from citizens, (such as concerns about the Hwy. 13 and Hwy. 111/Little Chicago Road intersection and accidents, for example), they go unanswered in this county, but other county's sheriffs provide answers. Will you be willing to talk with the media about things you can answer to improve transparency with the public? How will you do so?

I will always communicate with the press and give answers as fast as I can. The public has every right to know what's going on in our county and I will make it easier than it is now to get open records requests. I will always be available to the press and public starting now, 715-780-0744 is my phone number, I have an open door policy for the people.

A lot of people in Price County use Facebook. Will you use Facebook as a tool to understand the concerns of people in Price County and search for tips that may help law enforcement solve crimes, including crimes from long ago? How do you feel about officers making comments on Facebook against citizens when citizens post their concerns about things that are allegedly happening to them?

I'm going to create a policy that keeps officers off of Facebook for official reasons, they will be able to for personal though. As sheriff I think we can utilize Facebook for tips and evidence collection for crimes, but we will NOT be participating in the public drama.

Residents are concerned about drug use in the county. How would you address Delta-8, synthetic marijuana products, marijuana, and other substance abuse problems in a way that improves safety and supports recovery? How do you feel about Delta-8, synthetics, and marijuana?

I will never be a fan of synthetic drugs at all or any of the hard drugs and will go after them in a very different fashion, I want them gone and will make life very uncomfortable for people selling or manufacturing. However, I'm not against actual marijuana and think it needs to be decriminalized. The bottom line is its not worse than alcohol and could be a great tax revenue for our state and county or even a way to cut taxes, like property taxes.

How would you handle domestic violence, property crimes, drug activity, and repeat offenders?

I don't like domestic violence at all, but we need to have an understanding it comes from both men and women. As a man I know its my job to protect my loved ones, and that means if someone commits acts of domestic violence in this county, I want them to do jail time, not probation. As for property crimes that's going to have to be dealt with case by case basis, but I can ensure fairness every time. Repeat offenders are a huge problem in this county and I feel if people don't want to stop committing crimes they should go to jail instead of continuing the fines and probation routine the county has now.

Who were your top influences for how you will be as a sheriff, and how did those people influence you?

My Mom and Dad are great influences for the kind of sheriff I'm going to be. My mother for her compassion, fairness, and integrity, and my father for his toughness and willingness to stand up for people, along with his motivation to always get the job done. He was also a Coast Guard rescue swimmer. They have both passed and I want to make them proud even now. SFC Matthew Love, he was my leader in Iraq in 2007 during OIF 5 and he instilled in me the Army Values that I follow to this day and will to the day I die and I hope that the deputies under me will follow those same values, cause you don't have to be in the military to have them. My kids are also who inspire me cause I want to make Price County a safe place for them and any other child in this county and be a positive example to them also.

How will you make Price County better?

I'd like to rebuild the relationship between the people and law enforcement, that's where it starts and knowing our rights will be upheld.

Total Word Count: 1,044 of 1,800

---

Much of the research and writing of articles on My Price County is done with volunteer hours. The content is free to readers. If you appreciate My Price County's content and want to support its efforts, you may monetarily contribute at this link, by sending a check to My Price County, P.O. Box 284, Phillips, WI 54555, or by contacting My Price County for other means of payment. Any contributions are appreciated. If you own a business, please contact us about advertising opportunities. Also, we are considering subcontracting another individual to sell ads. If you would like more information, please contact us.]]>
.jpg

CHANGING OF THE GUARD, HAUSCHILD, NEVELIER, AND SCHMIDT SET TO RETIRE.jpg (Size: 32.84 KB / Downloads: 4473)

There will be changes at the top of all three police departments in August 2026 through January 2027.

At the Tuesday, June 2, 2026, Committee of the Whole meeting, it was announced that Phillips' chief of police, Mike Hauschild, is planning to retire in August 2026. After almost three decades of service, and becoming the chief in 2014, he believes it is time to pursue other interests. He recommended Lieutenant Blaine Peterson to become the new chief of police. The Committee of the Whole approved the recommendation, which will be presented to the Common Council on June 9.

In Park Falls, Chief Marvin Nevelier will retire, effective January 1, 2027, after serving four years as the chief of police and serving with the department since 2001. His successor will be chosen from applicants responding to the posted job description. The Personnel Committee will conduct the interview process and make recommendation to the Common Council.

For Price County as a whole, Sheriff Brian Schmidt submitted his non-candidacy paperwork with County Clerk Meredith Hueckman announcing it on May 11, 2026. Sheriff Schmidt has been the sheriff since September 2, 2009, when he won a recall election by 169 votes. Over the years, he won four general elections, two contested (Years 2010 and 2022-with only a registered write-in) and two non-contested (Years 2014 and 2018). There will be a primary in August, and the general election will take place in November 2026 when a new sheriff will be selected by Price County residents.

.jpg

2026 My Price County Events List.jpg (Size: 256.46 KB / Downloads: 1223) ]]>
.jpg

2026 My Price County Events List.jpg (Size: 256.46 KB / Downloads: 1223) ]]> <![CDATA[TWO F-35S MAKE SURPRISE VISIT IN PRICE COUNTY ON MEMORIAL DAY]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-829.html Tue, 26 May 2026 08:32:12 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-829.html
.jpg

Fighter Jet.jpg (Size: 14.04 KB / Downloads: 4417)
Submitted photo.

According to the Wisconsin National Guard, the 115th Fighter Wing, out of Madison, Wisconsin, performed a low-level flyover of the Watertown Aero Park on Memorial Day, Monday, May 25, 2026. Watertown was having an unveiling of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. Two F-35s performed the flyover at 3 in the afternoon. Three o'clock is the local time that Americans are asked to pause for one minute of silence on Memorial Day to honor and remember military members who died while serving the United States.

Merrill, Wisconsin was scheduled to have a fly-over, but it allegedly got cancelled last minute.

However, around 3:30 p.m., residents in Price County, including, (but not limited to), Phillips, Fifield, Prentice, and Rib Lake reported hearing a loud noise. Some thought a jet was crashing and others joked it might be aliens landing. Rather, it was two F-35s flying low in the area for many to enjoy on Memorial Day.

While My Price County's research did not show with certainty where these F-35s were coming from or going to, Watertown is about 250 miles away, and an F-35 could travel that distance, at top speed, in 12 to 15 minutes and could travel in a standard long-range cruising configuration at 675 MPH in about 22 to 25 minutes, so it is possible that they did a flyover of parts of Wisconsin after the flyover in Watertown. No matter where they came from, many residents were delighted to see them fly over.

.png

Phillips 2026 Garage Sale Display Ad.png (Size: 51.88 KB / Downloads: 1211)
Get your Phillips garage sale listed for free. Find out how by clicking this link.]]>
.jpg

Phillips 2026 Garage Sale Display Ad.png (Size: 51.88 KB / Downloads: 1211)
Get your Phillips garage sale listed for free. Find out how by clicking this link.]]> <![CDATA[ANIMAL BITING PUBLIC HEARING HELD AT LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING - UPDATED]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-828.html Tue, 19 May 2026 01:58:10 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-828.html
During public comment, Ginny Strobl stated that sometimes neighbors don't get along and without requiring proof of bites, she feels someone could try to get a dog and neighbor in trouble for no actual reason. She felt a bite should need to be thoroughly checked by a medical professional to prove it occurred.

Walt Madsen stated that his main problem is that it opens it up as a red flag law for dogs. If a person has an issue with a neighbor, the neighbor could falsely report a neighbor's dog. He said he also has experience with a dog coming onto his property but could see how neighbors could use this to be problematic for one another. He felt it violated peoples' rights of life, liberty, and property. He felt it could be passed with some wording changes.

Sheriff Schmidt spoke and said it is not a red flag law at all.

Humane Officer Mindy Dabler gave more information on the topic. She said there were no animal-related complaints in 2023, three in 2024, and 20 in 2025. There was a large increase in 2025 due to particular owners who let two dogs breed, the male dog was hit by a car, and the female had three puppies. The owners purchased another dog, and the animals were allowed to run free as a pack. In 2025, 24 citations were issued to that residence. Twelve of the 20 total complaints involved incidents were chickens were allegedly killed on a neighboring property and dogs allegedly chased people (including a toddler), other dogs, and vehicles on the neighboring property. She felt that had the ordinance been in place at the time, ten complaints could have been prevented. She further stated that dangerous dog and vicious animal ordinances "track with the particular animal and require more than one bite or a severe attack by the same animal to take action." However, she stated, "a bite is not always an 'attack.' I would not consider any of the bites an 'attack' as none of the bites were severe; however, all of the bites broke the skin of the victims." One dog was removed from the home after its second bite, because the owners were not following the quarantine rules.

.jpg

ANIMAL BITING PUBLIC HEARING HELD AT LAW ENFORCEMENT COMMITTEE MEETING.jpg (Size: 48.04 KB / Downloads: 4401)
Image Credit: Price County Sheriff's Office

For Bite Levels 3 and above, quarantine orders are issued, so this ordinance would fit Levels 3 and higher.

Patty Stephan, a law enforcement committee member, asked, "How do we prove or confirm a bite?" Humane Officer Dabler said that mandatory reports usually come from medical professionals who are mandatory reporters.

Committee Member Dennis Wartgow said that during public comment he heard concerns that people may file a false complaint that a dog bit them. Sheriff Schmidt said there would be penalties for that. Obstructing charges would be sent to the district attorney, or a citation may be issued.

Amy Casey, the county coroner, was at the meeting and raised her hand with a question regarding the topic while Sheriff Schmidt was at the podium. He said, "You're not a committee member. You're not a committee member. Put your hand down. You're elected. Not a committee member." She said she just had a question and joked that she could arrest him. The chairman allowed her to speak, and she asked, "Is it still protocol to report dog bites to the public health department?" Mindy Dabler came back to the podium and replied that they are reported to her and to public health. "The quarantine orders are actually public health paperwork." Humane Officer Dabler said the police are the ones serving those papers to the people, then it goes to the health department, and she does follow-up if the people are not following the orders. She added that it's her job to make sure there is a correct report, and she has to see broken skin to accept it as a true dog bite report.

Committee Member Bob Kopisch said that there are a lot of "mays" and "shalls" in the wording. To him, "shall" means a person has to do it, so he questioned the wording. He also asked if it was typical for the entire board to make a decision on a habitual offender, and he felt involving thirteen members was a "slippery slope" which made him "uncomfortable." The reason he asked this is because a person accused of this would have a right to appeal to the board.

Patty Stephan asked where the animals go when they are removed. The humane officer said that they go to Catkins if they are adoptable. If they are not adoptable, meaning if they have bitten, then she has to make a decision and have the animal put down.

County Administrator Nick Trimner said this is less about taking of animals, which has always been something the humane officer can do, but this is more about the residence not being allowed to have animals at the residence, because some people who were not allowed to have animals would have an animal at their residence and claim it was owned by someone else. This ordinance would ban the residence from having animals for a specified time, unless someone else bought the property.

The Law Enforcement Committee voted to pass the ordinance with the presented wording amendment, striking "may" and replacing it with "shall." The motion was carried by all committee members.

The definition of the term "habitual offender," referring to an animal owner or harborer, was also amended, and the motion carried by all committee members.

While Sheriff Schmidt and Humane Officer Dabler spoke of dogs during their presentation, since this ordinance states "animals," it appears it would apply to all animals that bite and would affect the ownership of all types of animals. Also, it is the "residence" (all people who live at that address even if they are not habitual offenders) that could be banned from animal ownership and not just a "resident." We asked Humane Officer Dabler for more information; however, our request for information was rather last minute on Monday morning. She stated she has a response ready but needs to get it approved and will likely be able to submit the answers to My Price County on Tuesday. However, that will likely be after the Common Council meeting, where this ordinance may get final approval. If you have questions or comments, the meeting is the morning of Tuesday, May 19, 2026. Public comment is allowed at the meeting for anyone interested in attending to voice an opinion. Otherwise, we will update this article when we have answers. The questions are as follows:

UPDATED 5-20-2026:

For the vicious animal biting ordinance, would all animals be counted for this, since it doesn't just state "dogs," such as cats, horses, etc.?

Humane Officer Dabler replied, "The current ordinances track with one particular animal. The new ordinance would allow for the county to track the bites pertaining to a specific address, not the specific animal. This is specifically meant for a residence with multiple residents with multiple animal owners and multiple animals.

"For your question about all animals being included, yes, to a reasonable degree. The likelihood of a farm animal creating a reason for this ordinance to be enforced is quite low and unlikely. I am required to issue quarantine orders for all cat, dog, and ferret bites, which occur in Price County. Most of the bites are reported by mandatory reporters, such as clinics and emergency rooms, when they are treating the patients for the bite wound."

If any animal habitually bites, are all animals covered in this ordinance? And does that mean that if a dog bites, then the residence cannot own a cat, for example?

Humane Officer Dabler replied, "The ordinance is not intended to handle one dog that bites. It is intended to address the cases with multiple different animal bites by different animals within a year. Yes, if convicted, it would mean they are not allowed to own ANY animals for the amount of time a judge orders them not to own animals."

And does the ordinance apply to anyone living at the residence?

Humane Officer Dabler replied, "Yes, it would apply to anyone living at the residence; however, once that person left that residence, this ordinance would no longer apply to them. It would be for the specific residence and anyone living there, unless everyone moved out and someone new moved in."

So, if a boyfriend and girlfriend moved in together, and the girlfriend could not have dogs at her residence due to being a habitual offender, does that mean the boyfriend could not have a dog at that residence?

Humane Officer Dabler replied, "With this question, please look at the information [definitions and ordinance information provided below] and understand that a Habitual Offender is different than a Habitual Animal Offender Premises.

"A Habitual Offender is convicted as an individual and the order prohibiting animal ownership follows them for the amount of time ordered.

"A Habitual Animal Offender Premises is specifically for a particular address.

"For your question, if the girlfriend is a Habitual Offender, the dog could not be at the residence if she were going to be owning, possessing, harboring, keeping or having custody or control of the dog.

"If the girlfriend’s prior residence was a Habitual Animal Offender Premises, but she moved in with the boyfriend at a different location, the dog could stay."

ORDINANCES AND DEFINITIONS PROVIDED BY HUMANE OFFICER DABLER:

§ 223-27 Vicious animals.

A.

The owner of any animal shall be in violation of this article if the animal engages in any activity or exhibits any behavior as defined by this article under "vicious animal" in § 223-19.

B.

Upon being adjudicated guilty of or entering a guilty plea or no contest plea to a charge made under this provision, the owner of the vicious animal, if allowed to maintain the animal, will have to adhere to the following requirements for possessing a vicious animal:

(1)
The owner must possess a proper enclosure to confine the vicious animal; and

(2)
The owner must post the premises with a vicious animal warning sign.

C.

Price County shall have the right to inspect, randomly and without notice, a vicious animal which is required to be confined pursuant to this section in its environment. Permission of the owner or person with custody of the animal confined shall not be unreasonably withheld.

D.

Any person who releases a vicious animal either willfully through failure to exercise due care or control or who takes such animal out of such proper enclosure in such a manner which is likely to cause injury to another person or damage to the property of another person shall be in violation of this article.

E.
For a conviction under this section refer to § 223-44 of this article.[1]

[1]

Editor's Note: Amended at time of adoption of Code (see Ch. 1, General Provisions, Art. II)

VICIOUS ANIMAL

A.

Any animal which:

(1)

Constitutes a physical threat to human beings or other animals by virtue of an attack of such severity or intensity as to cause severe property or physical damage;

(2)

Makes an unprovoked attack on animals or on human beings; or

(3)

Intentionally attacks physical property in an effort to cause harm to a human or other animal.

B.
An animal shall not be a vicious animal within the meaning of this article if:

(1)

It inflicts an injury upon a person when the animal is being used by a law enforcement officer carrying out official duties; or

(2)

The injury inflicted by the animal was sustained by a person who was committing a willful trespass or other tort; was tormenting, abusing or assaulting the animal; had in the past been reported to have tormented, abused or assaulted the animal; or was committing or attempting to commit a crime.

§ 223-25 Dangerous dogs.
[Amended 4-21-2015 by Ord. No. 1-15; 4-18-2023 by Ord. No. 2-23]

A.

It shall be unlawful for any person to have or possess a dangerous dog without notification to the Price County Sheriff's Office. "Dangerous dog" defined as such under § 223-19.

B.
Requirements of keeping dangerous dog.

(1)

A adequate structural strength enclosure to confine the dog from escape.

(2)

Posting on the premises of a dangerous dog a sign: "Warning. There is a dangerous dog on the property."

(3)

Annual license of the dog and paying an additional license fee for the dangerous dog.

C.

Right to inspect. The Price County Health and Human Services Department shall have the right to inspect, randomly and without notice, a dangerous dog which is required to be confined pursuant to this section in its environment. Permission of the owner or person with custody of the animal confined shall not be unreasonably withheld.

D.

Notice to County Sheriff's Department.

(1)

The owner of a dangerous dog shall notify the Price County Sheriff's Department within 24 hours if the dog is loose, unconfined, has attacked a human, has died, or has been sold or donated. If the dog has been sold or donated, the owner shall provide the Price County Health and Human Services Department with the name, address, and telephone number of the new owner of the dog and notify the new owner of the designation.

(2)

The owner of a dangerous dog shall notify the Price County Sheriff's Department within 10 days if the owner is moving within Price County's jurisdiction or out of the County.

E.

Violations. Any person who releases a dangerous dog either willfully through failure to exercise due care or control or who takes such animal out of such proper enclosure in such a manner which is likely to cause injury to another person or damage to the property of another person shall be in violation of this article.

DANGEROUS DOG

A.

Any dog that, according to the records of the County, has without provocation either inflicted body harm on a human being on public or private property or bitten, attacked or endangered the safety of humans after the dog has previously bitten others. The owner will be notified of such classification.

B.

A dog shall not be a dangerous dog within the meaning of this article if:

(1)

The dog inflicts an injury upon a person when the dog is being used by a law enforcement officer executing official duties.

(2)

The injury inflicted by the dog was sustained by a person who, at the time, was committing a willful trespass or other tort; was tormenting, abusing, or assaulting the dog; had in the past been reported to have tormented, abused or assaulted the dog; or was committing or attempting to commit a crime.

§ 223-44.1 Habitual animal offender.
[Added 4-18-2023 by Ord. No. 2-23]

It shall be unlawful to be a habitual offender. If found to be a habitual offender, the court may order no animal ownership for a minimum period of three years, not to exceed 10 years.

HABITUAL OFFENDER
Any animal owner or harborer, who within any three-year period is convicted of three or more violations of domestic animal related offenses under Chapter 223 of the Price County Code. The controlling date is the date of each violation, not the date of the plea entered or the date of conviction resulting therefrom.
[Added 4-18-2023 by Ord. No. 2-23]

ANIMAL BITE
Any physical contact of the teeth of the animal with human flesh, including but not limited to a puncture, pierce, scratch or tear.

OWNER
Any person owning, possessing, harboring, keeping or having custody or control of any animal subject to this article. This definition is intended to embrace any person who is a custodian.

.jpg

Habitual Animal Offender 1.jpg (Size: 417.7 KB / Downloads: 556)

.jpg

Habitual Animal Offender 2.jpg (Size: 411.43 KB / Downloads: 420)

.jpg

Habitual Animal Offender 3.jpg (Size: 90.51 KB / Downloads: 509)

.jpg

Habitual Animal Offender 4.jpg (Size: 204.49 KB / Downloads: 447) ]]>
During public comment, Ginny Strobl stated that sometimes neighbors don't get along and without requiring proof of bites, she feels someone could try to get a dog and neighbor in trouble for no actual reason. She felt a bite should need to be thoroughly checked by a medical professional to prove it occurred.

Walt Madsen stated that his main problem is that it opens it up as a red flag law for dogs. If a person has an issue with a neighbor, the neighbor could falsely report a neighbor's dog. He said he also has experience with a dog coming onto his property but could see how neighbors could use this to be problematic for one another. He felt it violated peoples' rights of life, liberty, and property. He felt it could be passed with some wording changes.

Sheriff Schmidt spoke and said it is not a red flag law at all.

Humane Officer Mindy Dabler gave more information on the topic. She said there were no animal-related complaints in 2023, three in 2024, and 20 in 2025. There was a large increase in 2025 due to particular owners who let two dogs breed, the male dog was hit by a car, and the female had three puppies. The owners purchased another dog, and the animals were allowed to run free as a pack. In 2025, 24 citations were issued to that residence. Twelve of the 20 total complaints involved incidents were chickens were allegedly killed on a neighboring property and dogs allegedly chased people (including a toddler), other dogs, and vehicles on the neighboring property. She felt that had the ordinance been in place at the time, ten complaints could have been prevented. She further stated that dangerous dog and vicious animal ordinances "track with the particular animal and require more than one bite or a severe attack by the same animal to take action." However, she stated, "a bite is not always an 'attack.' I would not consider any of the bites an 'attack' as none of the bites were severe; however, all of the bites broke the skin of the victims." One dog was removed from the home after its second bite, because the owners were not following the quarantine rules.

.jpg

Habitual Animal Offender 1.jpg (Size: 417.7 KB / Downloads: 556)

.jpg

Habitual Animal Offender 2.jpg (Size: 411.43 KB / Downloads: 420)

.jpg

Habitual Animal Offender 3.jpg (Size: 90.51 KB / Downloads: 509)

.jpg

Habitual Animal Offender 4.jpg (Size: 204.49 KB / Downloads: 447) ]]> <![CDATA[MAJOR TOPIC AT COUNTY BOARD MEETING: BUG TUSSEL PROJECT]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-817.html Sun, 03 May 2026 09:53:36 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-817.html
.jpg

MAJOR TOPIC AT COUNTY BOARD MEETING, BUG TUSSEL PROJECT.jpg (Size: 51.92 KB / Downloads: 5269)

Jesse Lane, the VP of strategic development for Bug Tussel, spoke at the April 28, 2026, county board meeting. According to Jesse, there are six tower sites they are considering for "if and when we do proceed with the builds." He stated those builds would provide a great solution for 911 services.

Larry Palecek said, "When we signed on with Bug Tussel, first of all, we're in dire straits with our emergency radio system, and we were led to believe that within a year there would be some action on it, and that's been two years ago, and now we're really in a bad spot, because we don't know if we should continue with Bug Tussel or if we should go into long-term borrowing and update our system for ourselves. I just want to impress on you the urgency of getting something going."

Jesse replied, "That urgency is not lost upon us." He said they are working toward it as quickly as they can, and he apologized for how long it is taking, a miscommunication on their parts on the timeline, and not getting it together sooner. He did not have a good faith time estimate for when the project may happen, though. He was able to provide some insight on funding. "If negotiations go the way that we anticipate and, yes, hope that they do, we would not need additional funding. There would be actually plenty of funding left on the side that we hope to continue to try to find ways to build out and benefit in Price County including support of other carriers in their efforts."

Nick Trimner said he and about 16 or 17 other counties were going to meet with Bug Tussel and right now Bug Tussel has been responsive. He explained, "We have 15 million dollars that is sitting in a bank." He explained that neither Bug Tussel nor the county has access to those funds unless there is a draw request. He gave the example of metal being purchased for a tower and then the draw request would be made to release the funding. There have been three total draws to date. $7,000 for engineering costs is the most recent draw request.

When asked about fiber placement and if the scope of the project has changed over the years, Jesse said, "The project scope has changed some. The original project scope did have fiber running east to west across the southern part of the county. We are reevaluating all of those. I will say as these six tower sites go up, we always put our fixed wireless equipment on the towers so that would bring fixed services to certain members of the community through cellular Internet services." He said fiber is being reevaluated to see what the best financial is for the current situation.

Nick said, "When we first got into the project, Mitch Olson, a representative from Bug Tussel, was there, and it was projected at about 18 months' time to complete the project." Nick said he did not feel like Price County was a priority in the line of projects, and Price County was somewhat ignored by Bug Tussel for a while. Nick said that it needs to be "now or never" with this project. He shared the "end of life" is coming to the system, but "end of life" does not mean "end of service." Nick explained it just means it is a more difficult product to maintain long-term, and the radio system needs to be upgraded by 2028.

Paula Houdek said it has become a contentious issue in the county. She admitted that Jesse has come into the project at a tense time, but said to him, "If you cannot promise us, if you cannot be honest and transparent with everyone, us and the county, then I would say why don't you just get the heck out and move on and let us do what we need to do? So, that's kind of my thought, is, if you don't have these answers, then, then quit dragging us along. That's what I'm saying."

Jesse explained there has been a lot of reorganization with a different team of representatives at Bug Tussel, which he hopes will be positive. He said that Steve Schneider is a former CEO who is now acting CEO and Mitch Olson is no longer with the company.]]>
.jpg

JASON HASTINGS RESIGNS FROM PRICE COUNTY BOARD OF SUPERVISORS.jpg (Size: 36.5 KB / Downloads: 6535)

Jason Hastings, who was on the Price County Board of Supervisors representing District 5, which includes the Town of Fifield and the Town of Eisenstein (Ward 2), resigned on April 22, 2026.

The resignation letter he shared with his constituents is as follows:

"Dear Constituents,

In the oath we took last week, we swore to defend the constitution against all enemies foreign and domestic. In America, we are all governed by the consent of we the people, who are the rulers.

I am resigning from my position as County Supervisor, a decision not made lightly. I thought it was important that you know the dangerous and corrupt environment Price County’s local governance has become.

It is my duty to inform you, we the people, that your government has wandered from its constitutional obligations. The promises we make to uphold the rights and liberties, enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, are being blatantly undermined, and my efforts to oppose these indiscretions have been repeatedly blocked.

Since assuming office, I have been subjected to intimidation and threats, not only to censor my voice, but to endanger my family and personal undertakings. My attempts to eliminate corruption, promote transparency, and protect our community’s interests have been met with relentless resistance and absolute inaction, all of which are verifiable on the Price County YouTube channel.

The jacked up bureaucracy in which we find ourselves is no accident — it is a calculated attempt to stifle anyone who has a dissenting opinion and maintain a "good old boys club" that privileges a select few at the expense of our community and constitutional rights. Roadblocks are intentionally set to silence any attempt at change, as seen through blocked incoming emails from my constituents, threatening lawsuits, and censorship during meetings, failing to respond to emails that posed questions.

Our community’s resources are being mismanaged through schemes like the Solberg Lake project, that had no board approval in different ways, misusing the ARPA funds and Price County's deal with the carbon credits. These were both unjustified financial maneuvers that relocate your hard-earned tax dollars to projects with no accountability or benefit to you. Those who you are supposed to trust with governance have consistently chosen self-interest over public service, all while silencing those who dare to hold them accountable.

I have attempted to serve you by standing against malicious initiatives, such as unauthorized land transactions, fantasy world carbon credit financial entanglements, Bug Tussel tower projects that don’t come to fruition, and the covert expansion of bureaucratic projects — all of which are detrimental to our county's welfare.

Stand firm and demand the accountability that is your constitutional right. Call your supervisors, because your emails are now being censored. Engage in local governance — attend council meetings, question these crazy policies, and do not be silenced by fear.

Thank you to those who were there for my support.

Jason Hastings"

[Image: deercreekangus.jpg]

Deer Creek Angus, LLC has a large selection of Black Angus burgers, steaks, roasts, and other beef products sold by individual packages and in quarters, halves, and whole. Contact Deer Creek Angus, LLC at 715-550-6156, find products & pricing on their website, and follow their Facebook page.]]> <![CDATA[THREE PRICE COUNTY STUDENTS ARE WIAA SCHOLAR ATHLETE FINALISTS]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-815.html Sun, 03 May 2026 09:18:02 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-815.html
.jpg

Leah Harper, Gavin Esterholm, and Heston Hueckman.jpg (Size: 76.18 KB / Downloads: 5059)

"From a pool of more than 724 nominated seniors across 379 Wisconsin high schools, just 32 have earned the distinction of the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association’s (WIAA) Scholar Athlete Finalist for 2026," according to the WIAA.

Sixteen senior boys and sixteen senior girls compose the 32 athletes selected for 2026, and three of those athletes are from Price County. To have one student from any town is a great feat, but two have two students from Phillips, and three total from Price County, is remarkable.

The WIAA determines the top 32 finalists based on athletic and academic achievement from each of four WIAA divisions.

“On behalf of the WIAA and our membership, it’s an honor to recognize these scholar athletes for the discipline, integrity, and commitment they’ve shown in both the classroom and competition,” said Jake Beschta, Assistant Director of the WIAA. "Their achievements reflect not only personal excellence, but also the support of their families, coaches, and schools. We are proud to celebrate students who truly embody the balance of academics and athletics, and we look forward to the positive impact they will continue to make in their communities and beyond.”

Representing Phillips in Division 3 are Leah Harper and Gavin Esterholm from Phillips High School.

Leah Harper holds a 3.9 GPA and is a 10-time letterwinner. According to the WIAA, "She received Marawood Conference first team all-conference honors three times in cross country and is a three-time team sectional cross country champion. She has lettered three times in track & field and earned all-league honors twice and MVP accolades her junior year. Harper earned a state track & field championship in the 1,600-meter relay her freshman year. In addition, she lettered three years in basketball and was a member of two conference championship squads." Leah shared, “I have learned that the key to success is balance. If I don’t find the perfect balance I either get burnt out or I fall behind. Learning to balance academics, sports, extracurricular activities and more has allowed me to become a better athlete, student, teammate, and leader. I will be able to apply each of these roles later in life and will become a better person because of them.” Leah will continue her education at UW-Stevens Point while participating in cross country and track & field.

Gavin Esterholm holds a 4.0 GPA. He is the student liaison at the school and contributes to My Price County. According to the WIAA, "he has lettered four times in cross country and three times in track. He is a four-time All-Marawood Conference first team performer in cross country and a three-time conference runner of the year. The Logger is a two-time cross country sectional champion and a four-time State cross country participant. As a senior, he placed third at the State cross country championships. He also earned all-conference honors in track & field his sophomore and junior seasons." Gavin shared, "One lesson that will stay with me is the importance of building meaningful relationships with those around you. Whether teammates or competitors, I have been able to connect with amazing people who continue to contribute significantly to my life and motivate me to keep pushing beyond my limits.” Gavin will continue his education by studying psychology at UW-Stevens Point. (The article continues after the ad; keep reading.)

[Image: lakeparkpinevillage.jpg]

Pine Village in Prentice offers affordable, active living in a wooded setting for those 50+ and disabled persons. Rent is based on 30% Adjusted Gross Income. Small pets under 30 pounds are welcome. Contact Pine Village at 715-428-2300.

Representing Prentice in Division 4 is Heston Hueckman from Prentice High School.

According to the WIAA, "Heston ranked first in his class academically with a 4.0 GPA, and he is a nine-time letter winner. Hueckman is a three-time baseball team MVP and two-time first team all-conference selection in the sport. He helped the Buccaneers' cross country team earn back-to-back trips to State as a junior and senior and a basketball conference and sectional championship his senior season." Heston shared, “To be able to stick to something and to work hard at it until it is achieved is something that I think is sort of rare in this world. I believe that it is an extremely important skill to have, and, while I am far from perfect, I think that learning how to do this will be very helpful in the future.” Heston will study mechanical engineering at a yet to be determined educational facility.

The finalists will be recognized at an awards ceremony on Sunday, May 3, 2026, in Stevens Point. A live stream of the awards program will be available on the websites of the State Television Network stations, including WXOW-TV, WQOW-TV, WAOW-TV, WKOW-TV, WVTV and WCWF at 1:00 p.m. on May 3. A delayed telecast of the ceremony will be aired on a future date.

.jpg

MPC 2026 Events, Larger.jpg (Size: 260.98 KB / Downloads: 886) ]]>
.jpg

MPC 2026 Events, Larger.jpg (Size: 260.98 KB / Downloads: 886) ]]> <![CDATA[GOVERNOR TONY EVERS APPOINTS AMY CASEY AS PRICE COUNTY CORONER]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-809.html Fri, 10 Apr 2026 21:31:25 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-809.html
.jpg

Governor Tony Evers Appoints Amy Casey.jpg (Size: 50.2 KB / Downloads: 5162)

Submitted photo.

On Friday, April 10, 2026, Governor Tony Evers announced the appointment of Amy Casey to serve as Price County coroner. This appointment was needed due to the passing of James Dalbesio III, who was Price County's long-time coroner. Amy will serve the remainder of the expired term, which ends on January 4, 2027. About a month ago, Amy began serving as the deputy coroner.

Governor Evers stated, “With her experience as deputy coroner, I look forward to seeing Amy Casey continue to serve the community of Price County well in this new role. And on behalf of our state, I also want to share my deepest condolences with the family, friends, and entire Price County community on the passing of James Dalbesio. He will not be forgotten.”

Amy shared, “I am humbled and incredibly honored to accept the position of Price County Coroner. I would like to thank Governor Evers and his staff for this wonderful opportunity to be selected to step into this role. I will be forever grateful for the guidance and mentoring I have received from James D. Dalbesio III, while we collaborated in my position as funeral director, and welcome this title with respect and acknowledgment that I have big shoes to fill. I am so appreciative for the support from our interim coroner, my family, and community. I am eager to hit the ground running and thankful to be able to serve Price County and the state of Wisconsin.”

.jpg

MPC 2026 Events, Smaller.jpg (Size: 256.15 KB / Downloads: 1006) ]]>
.jpg

MPC 2026 Events, Smaller.jpg (Size: 256.15 KB / Downloads: 1006) ]]> <![CDATA[SPRING 2026 UNOFFICIAL ELECTION RESULTS]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-808.html Wed, 08 Apr 2026 03:31:21 +0000 My Northern Wisconsin]]> https://www.mynorthernwisconsin.com/news/thread-808.html
.jpg

electionresults.jpg (Size: 24.57 KB / Downloads: 5481)

While Price County voted 1,955 to 1,758 in favor of Maria Lazar, Chris Taylor won the election for Wisconsin Supreme Court statewide.

Voter turn-out in Price County was at 41% of eligible voters.

Town of Georgetown: 53%
Town of Harmony: 51%
Town of Hill: 49%
Town of Catawba: 46%
Town of Elk: 46%
Fifield: 44%
Ogema: 44%
Town of Worcester: 43%
Town of Knox: 43%
Town of Emery: 42%
Town of Lake: 40%
Town of Spirit: 40%
Phillips: 39%
Town of Flambeau: 39%
Town of Eisenstein: 39%
Village of Catawba: 38%
Town of Kennan: 37%
Park Falls: 35%
Town of Prentice: 34%
Town of Hackett: 34%
Village of Kennan: 33%
Village of Prentice: 30%

The unofficial Spring 2026 Price County results are as follows:

PRICE COUNTY

SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 1
Larry Palecek 184

SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 2
Michelle Drobnik 194

SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 3
Joe Baratka 249

SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 4
Jeff Ulrich 228
Kregan Kamin 77

SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 5
Jason Hastings 250

SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 6
Paula Houdek 275

SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 7
Dennis Wartgow 131

SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 8
Brian Ernst 290

SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 9
Jordan Spacek 253

SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 10
Bob Kopisch 229

SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 11
Patricia Stephan 136

SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 12
Douglas Erickson 190

SUPERVISOR DISTRICT 13
Jenifer Baratka 167
Shaun J. Krawczyk 146

CITY OF PHILLIPS

MAYOR
Charles Peterson 245

ALDERMAN AT-LARGE (3)
John Klimowski 155
Johnathan McArthur 120
Jeana Clark 105
August F. Mayer 101
Bryan Weisrock 74
Marty Stephan (registered write-in) 7

CITY OF PARK FALLS

ALDERPERSON - DIST 1
Dennis Wartgow 76

ALDERPERSON - DIST 2
Gary Wollerman 47
James A. Corbett 45

ALDERPERSON - DIST 3
Amy Johnson Benedict 85

ALDERPERSON - DIST 4
Dina Bukachek 94

VILLAGE OF PRENTICE

TRUSTEE (3)
Brody Hartmann 86
Kevin R. Gullickson 68
Robert Orlandi - 64

VILLAGE OF CATAWBA

TRUSTEE
Cali Handel 31

VILLAGE OF KENNAN

TRUSTEE
Max Ericson 26

TOWN OF HACKETT

REFERENDUM #1 (treasurer/clerk appointment)
Yes - 26
No - 19

BUTTERNUT SCHOOL DISTRICT
AT-LARGE (2)
Randol R. Smart 18
Katie Wilson 12

REFERENDUM
No 14
Yes 12

CHEQUAMEGON SCHOOL DISTRICT

SEAT 1
Write-in 62

SEAT 2
Robert Hennes 825

SEAT 3
Roger Strand 858

FLAMBEAU SCHOOL DISTRICT

AT-LARGE (4)
Ted Alberson 11
Jennifer Heath 10
Kim Dachel 6
Kenealy (write-in) 1
Lund (write-in) 1

PHILLIPS SCHOOL DISTRICT

SEAT 1
Evan Lund 1,330

SEAT 2
Sarah Meives 1,215
Bryan Weisrock 349

SEAT 3
Rocky Stibs (registered write-in) 86
Write-in 27

PRENTICE SCHOOL DISTRICT

SEAT 1 - Town of Hackett
Randy R. Erickson 554

SEAT 2 - Town of Knox
Helen Palmquist 546

SEAT 3 - Town of Spirit
Darrell E. Pierson 545

RIB LAKE SCHOOL DISTRICT

SEAT 1 - Village of Rib Lake
Karah Grzanna 68

SEAT 2 - Town of Hill, Town of Spirit
Troy W. Weik 72]]>
.jpg

Alexis Nash.jpg (Size: 33.42 KB / Downloads: 7345)
Submitted photo.

Alexis Nash has been appointed by Governor Tony Evers as the district attorney for Price County.

The appointment fills a vacancy created by Matthew McElroy, who resigned in 2025. Alexis will serve for the remainder of Matthew's term, which ends January 2029. She has relocated to Price County for the position.

She graduated from Concordia University Wisconsin, the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee, and the Widener University Commonwealth Law School. From 2012 to 2018, she served as the volunteer executive director of Impact Coalition for Families Inc., a Milwaukee non-profit organization focused on strengthening families and preventing domestic and community violence.

Alexis served as an assistant district attorney in the Milwaukee County District Attorney’s Office since 2023. According to the governor's office, she managed "a high-volume caseload ranging from misdemeanors to serious violent felonies and has tried 16 cases to verdict over the past three years. Working with the Family Drug Treatment Court, she has gained valuable experience in collaborative problem-solving within the drug treatment and child welfare systems. Earlier in her career, Nash practiced family law, and prior to earning her law degree, worked in financial services." (The article continues after the ad. Please keep reading.)

[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.

Former Milwaukee County District Attorney John Chisholm said, “Alexis Nash will serve the people of Price County with honor and integrity as their next district attorney. As a prosecutor in Milwaukee County, Alexis has ensured justice for the victims of crime and worked tirelessly to ensure the safety and well-being of children in unsafe living conditions. She has also played a pivotal role in the Family Drug Treatment Court program, displaying a firm commitment to the rights and dignity of all who interact with the criminal justice system.”

“Alexis Nash’s years of service and commitment to justice and collaboration will serve the Price County community well,” said Governor Evers.

Alexis said, “I’m honored by the governor’s trust and the opportunity to serve the people of Price County. The role of a prosecutor is to pursue justice with fairness, sound judgment, and respect for the law. My focus will be on doing the work carefully and consistently; supporting victims, working collaboratively with law enforcement, and ensuring that the justice system serves the community with integrity.”

[Image: deercreekangus.jpg]