Welcome to Issue 2 of Menomonie News Net. We’re thrilled to see the positive response to our launch. When we started, we had just 10 subscribers—today, we’ve grown to 361. A huge thank you to all of you for your support, whether through reading, sharing, or donating! We’re also excited to announce that we’re working on a website to provide even more ways to connect and share local news with you.

If you missed Issue 1, you can catch up here. Thanks for being part of this journey—news for the community, by the community!

Happy Thanksgiving!

Editors: Layne Pitt & Becky Kneer

In This Issue…

• Optimists Honor Youth of the Month

• 2024 City of Menomonie Lead Service Line Inventory

• Kaleidescope Peer Recovery Drop-In Center

• Music in the Library

• Dunn County Inmates Help Feed the Hungry

• UW-Stout Honors Recent Retirees

• Bridge to Hope Fundraiser

• County Budget: Cuts Tax Rate, OKs Geothermal, Solar to Reduce Costs

• Local Citizen Journalism Workshop Set to Empower Community

• Menomonie Collegians: Bella Jacobsen, Brooklyn Hoff, Madeline Palmer

Optimists Honor Youth of the Month

by David K. Williams

MENOMONIE - The Menomonie Optimist Club has honored Menomonie High School senior Brooklyn Sterry and Elk Mound High School senior Anika Hazeltine as October Youth of the Month. Brooklyn, the daughter of Ryan and Wendy Sterry, and Anika, whose guardian is Lindsey McCormack, were honored at the Optimist’s October meeting.

Brooklyn Sterry is described by school officials as a person of true character, with deep care for others, with knowledge and passion, leadership and effort in her high school career. Brooklyn has been a three-sport athlete all four years in volleyball, basketball and softball. She’s also a member of the Na-tional Honor Society, and part of the group Health Occupations Students of America. Brooklyn demonstrates her commitment to health professions as she serves as a Certified Nursing Assistant at the Our House Memory Care facility in Menomonie. She has set a goal to study toward becoming a Nurse Practitioner after high school.

Anika Hazeltine of Elk Mound has her goal set on a career in environmental earth science, which she hopes to study at UW-Eau Claire. History and science classes have been her favorites throughout high school. Anika has been serving as a tutor for special education and at-risk program students at Elk Mound High school. She is described as “naturally gifted with intervening with students of different needs and populations. She is exceptionally gracious in understanding the needs of others as she finds the most positive outcomes while tutoring.” Teachers describe Anika as a leader, and as someone who is charismatic and considerate, and a huge asset for Elk Mound High School.

In addition to recognizing outstanding youth, the Menomonie Optimists also provide free dictionaries to every third grade student in Dunn County, have adopted and done work projects at Hoffman Hills for almost 40 years, and sponsor the annual Menomin Meander family-friendly bike ride each summer.

Source: City of Menomonie

MENOMONIE - The City of Menomonie sent out reminder letters to those residents who have not completed the Lead Service Line Inventory survey. Identifying the water service lines in the city is a requirement from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).

Why do we want to know what kind of material is your water service line is made of? People living in homes with a lead or galvanized pipe previously connected to a lead service line have an increased risk of exposure to lead in their drinking water. Having this information on record allows us to provide resources for replacing lead service lines.

We’re committed to protecting the health of every household in our community.

What do we need from your household?

• If you received a reminder letter in the mail from the City of Menomonie, we need you to complete the survey by December 20, 2024.

• If you are unsure how to complete the survey, please contact the Water Utility Department to request a visit.

What to do if you’re concerned about lead in your drinking water:

• Use your filter properly: A filter can reduce lead in water.

• Clean your aerator: Regularly remove and clean your faucet’s screen.

• Use cold water: Don’t use hot water from the tap for drinking, cooking, or making baby formula.

• Run your water: The longer water has been sitting in a pipe, the more lead it may contain.

• Have your water tested: Contact the Water Utility for information about how to have a certified lab test your water.

For more information on reducing lead exposure head to the EPA’s website.

Contact: David Schofield, Public Works Director

[email protected] (715) 232-2221 x1020

Kaleidoscope Peer Recovery Drop-In Center: A Place for Connection and Community

Mental health drop-in center located in lower level of City Hall

by Andrew Garr

MENOMONIE - In the heart of Menomonie, the Kaleidoscope Peer Recovery Drop-In Center offers a welcoming and supportive space for anyone seeking connection and a sense of community. Operated by Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance, Inc. (WIMA), the center is a hub where individuals can gather, share experiences, and access resources, all in a safe, non-judgmental environment. While Kaleidoscope is especially supportive of those facing mental health and substance use challenges, the center is open to anyone who feels the need for companionship, social activities, or personal growth.

A Place for Everyone
Kaleidoscope’s doors are open to all. Whether someone is new to the area, feeling isolated, or simply looking for a sense of belonging, the center offers a space to connect with others who understand the value of mutual support. Visitors don’t need to be in crisis or seeking formal services to participate. It’s a place where anyone, regardless of their background or situation, can drop in, have a cup of coffee, and engage with a caring community.

“At Kaleidoscope, we believe that everyone has something valuable to offer,” says Andrew Garr, Program Director. “It’s a place where people can build relationships, participate in activities, and find support at their own pace. The emphasis is on connection and empowerment.”

Peer Support at the Center
One of the core elements of Kaleidoscope is peer support, a model where individuals with lived experience of mental health or substance use challenges offer guidance and companionship to others. Peer supporters at the center don’t act as therapists or counselors but as equals who have walked similar paths. This approach helps create a relaxed, trusting atmosphere where visitors can be themselves, knowing they are understood without judgment.

The power of peer support lies in the shared experience—visitors know they’re talking with someone who truly gets it. This mutual understanding fosters meaningful conversations, offers hope, and helps build resilience, whether someone is struggling with personal issues or just looking for a community of like-minded individuals.

Programs and Activities
Kaleidoscope offers a variety of programs and activities that promote wellness, creativity, and self-improvement. These include group discussions, wellness workshops, arts and crafts, and social events like movie nights and game days. The center also hosts resource workshops on topics such as budgeting, self-care, and job readiness, helping people build skills that enhance their overall well-being.

For those who prefer a quieter experience, Kaleidoscope provides spaces for reflection, relaxation, and solo activities like reading or journaling. The center is designed to be flexible, allowing visitors to engage with others as much or as little as they want.

No Barriers, Just Support
One of the most important aspects of Kaleidoscope is that it’s completely free and open to the public. There’s no need for appointments, referrals, or insurance—anyone can simply walk in. This barrier-free access ensures that people from all walks of life have the opportunity to connect with others and benefit from the peer-driven support the center provides.

Whether someone is feeling lonely, wants to meet new people, or is going through a tough time, Kaleidoscope is a resource available to all. It’s a place where connection happens naturally, and where people leave feeling more grounded and supported.

How to Visit Kaleidoscope
Kaleidoscope Peer Recovery Drop-In Center is located at 800 Wilson Ave, Room 41 in Menomonie and is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. If you’d like to learn more about the programs offered or have questions about what to expect, feel free to call (715) 231-3055 or stop by during open hours. No appointment is necessary—just drop in, say hello, and be part of a community that values connection and inclusivity.

Why Kaleidoscope Matters
In a time when many people feel disconnected or overwhelmed, Kaleidoscope offers a vital space where everyone is welcome, and no one is alone. The center embodies Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance’s mission of fostering mutual support, empathy, and community building. By providing a space where people can come together, Kaleidoscope helps break down the barriers of isolation and offers a sense of belonging to anyone who needs it.

If you’re looking for a place to find connection, develop friendships, or simply spend time in a supportive environment, Kaleidoscope Peer Recovery Drop-In Center is here for you.

Andrew Garr is the Program Director at Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance, Inc. He has over a decade of experience in peer support and community outreach.

Sources:

● Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance, Inc.

● Kaleidoscope Peer Recovery Drop-In Center

Music in the Library

Dunn County Inmates Help Feed the Hungry Through Garden Partnership

by David K. Williams

Since 2010 a quiet program at the Dunn County Jail has helped feed the hungry through a partnership with Stepping Stones. Produce grown at the Jail Garden is distributed through the Farmers Feeding Dunn County program. Click HERE to read the entire article from the Hay River Review.

UW-Stout Recognizes Recent Retirees at Fall Reception

Source: UW-Stout

MENOMONIE  - UW-Stout celebrated staff members who have recently retired or will be retiring soon. UW-Stout Chancellor Katherine Frank presided over the reception October 31, in the Ballrooms of the Memorial Student Center.

UW-Stout Honored Retirees:
Maria Alm:  College of Arts & Human Sciences
Barb Bauer:  Teaching, Learning & Leadership
Mark Eickstaedt:  Building Maintenance
Urs Haltinner:  Teaching, Learning & Leadership
Sharon Hansen:  Counseling, Rehabilitation & Human Services
Malinda Hebert:  Student Center
Jerry Kapus:  English, Philosophy & Communication Studies
Bonnie Lee:  Business & Financial Services
Gretchen Metzler:  Learning Technology Services
Rhonda Rubenzer:  Involvement Center 

Bridge to Hope Fundraiser

Dunn County budget: Cuts tax rate, OKs geothermal and solar to reduce energy costs

Source: Dunn County

MENOMONIE - The 2025 Dunn County budget reduces the tax rate and includes borrowing to install a geothermal and solar energy project for the Judicial Center and Central Campus area.

“This budget is fiscally responsible and still makes a significant improvement in our energy infrastructure,” said Kris Korpela, Dunn County Manager. “The taxpayers will benefit for years to come from the energy-saving projects supervisors have approved.”

The Dunn County Board of Supervisors on Nov. 12 approved the 2025 county budget that continues the recent trend of reducing the property tax rate for the next year. The 2025 tax rate will go from $4.83 for each $1,000 of equalized value to $4.53, a reduction of 6.2 percent. The 2024 budget reduced the tax rate by 14 percent as well. The tax rate was $7.10 in 2020.

Even though the 2025 tax rate may be less than 2024, that doesn’t necessarily mean a property’s tax bill will go down; changes in a property’s assessment and the impact of other taxing entities such as school districts, cities, villages, etc., also affect the final tax bill.

The budget includes $11 million in borrowing for a geothermal and solar project for some Dunn County buildings. The project will install a geothermal heat pump system for the Judicial Center, 615 Stokke Parkway in Menomonie, as well as adding to the current geothermal system serving the Government Center and Neighbors of Dunn County. The project will add a solar system on the central campus property on Stokke Parkway that will be used to power all three campus buildings.

"The current boiler and air conditioning system at the Judicial Center are outdated and inefficient,” said Dan Dunbar, Assistant County Manager, adding that a consulting firm was utilized in January to survey all county buildings for their energy efficiency ratings and proposed the geothermal and solar project.

“While the county is more energy efficient than other counties our size,” Dunbar said, “the study showed we can save money by producing our own energy.”

Combined with the heat pump system, Dunbar said, geothermal wells will provide for heating and cooling at the Judicial Center.

The solar installation will provide electricity for the Judicial Center, Government Center and the Neighbors of Dunn County. The final location of the solar panels has not been determined, Dunbar added.

The estimated cost of the combined project is $11 million, with the county in line for $3.4 million in rebates and incentives.

“The estimated 25-year savings for county taxpayers is nearly $20 million,” Dunbar said. “We think that is a good investment. All the money to pay for this debt will come from money previously allocated to pay electric and gas bills for our facilities.”

The budget calls for total county spending of $111.2 million. The tax levy – the total amount of property taxes the county will levy in 2025 – will increase less than 1 percent to $24.78 million. The levy is made up of a portion for libraries and bridges, $925,674; debt obligations, $5.17 million; and operations, $18.69 million.

The County Board approved $3 million of borrowing for highway projects and used about $2.5 million from the fund balance to create a balanced budget.  

Contacts:

Kris Korpela , Dunn County Manager 715-231-6401 [email protected] 

Dan Dunbar, Assistant County Manager 715- 231-6501 [email protected] 

Local Workshop Set to Empower Community with Journalism Skills

by Cynthia Romano

MENOMONIE - In an era when information is at most people’s fingertips, the role of local journalism has never been more important. Many communities, however, struggle to produce timely and accurate news coverage. This struggle can be seen in Menomonie where local news content has been minimal.

An upcoming citizen journalism workshop, taught by UW-Stout professor Kate Edenborg, aims to make a change by educating and equipping community members with the tools and skills needed to produce well-researched and accurate content.

“I've connected with many members of the community who want to do something to help ensure our citizens are well-informed,” Edenborg said. “Providing this class can help them learn how to write local news content which can fill the need we have in Menomonie.”

By the end of the course, participants should have acquired the skills to write and produce their own journalistic content which can be used to fill the gap of local news in the community. Whether interested in journalism as a career or as a hobby, this workshop provides the resources necessary to improve the local journalism landscape in Menomonie and surrounding areas.

“I'm especially hoping that those who take the class tell stories of their neighbors and all the interesting things that happen all the time in our town,” Edenborg said.

The course will be held in person on Stout’s campus January 28 and March 4 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. and virtually on February 4, 11, 18, and 25 from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The cost for the workshop is $29 with a scholarship and $149 regular. Scholarship applications can be found on the UW-Stout website where applicants will be asked to complete a short survey and submit a few paragraphs about their interest in the program.

No prior journalism experience is required to participate in the workshop. Throughout six sessions, those interested in sharing news with their community will gain experience in interviewing, editing, writing, and publishing stories.

For more information on the workshop and how to register, visit

https://www.uwstout.edu/outreach-engagement/continuing-education-conferences/minicourses/

Cynthia Romano is a communications student and journalism intern at UW-Stout focused on community engagement and local journalism.

Menomonie Collegians

Menomonie’s Bella Jacobsen Living a Dream with Badger Cross Country

by Layne Pitt

MADISON - While competing for Menomonie High School, Bella Jacobsen filled her trophy case with cross country and track and field awards, earning cross country Big Rivers Conference (BRC) and WIAA Sectional championship honors and a fifth-placed finish at the Wisconsin State Cross Country Championship. In track and field, Jacobsen was the BRC champion in the 1600- and 3200-meter runs, finishing second at the state meet in the 3200. 

Jacobsen has been able to continue to add to her trophy case as a Wisconsin Badger, playing major roles on both the Badgers’ cross country and track and field teams.

“When I realized I might have the ability to run at UW-Madison, I was eager to explore the opportunity,” Jacobsen is quoted on her Badger bio page. “I knew I wanted to continue to compete and grow as a runner, while also receiving an excellent education.” 

Following a red-shirt 2022 cross country season, Jacobsen, a biomedical engineering major, fit right in with the Division I Badgers’ program. During her red-shirt freshman year in 2023, Jacobsen was 24th at the Big Ten Championship and earned All-Region honors with a 23rd place finish in the Great Lakes Regional, going on to place 137th individually at the NCAA Division I Championship.

Jacobsen has continued to score for the 14th-ranked Badgers this season, setting her second personal-best time of the season with a 26th (19-minutes, 58.5-seconds) place finish at the Big Ten Conference championship. A week later, Jacobsen earned her second career all-region honor, placing 17th (19:59.8) to help the Badgers to a second place regional finish and a bid to the national championship, which was hosted by Wisconsin in Madison, Nov. 23.

Jacobsen finished 146th (20:48.0) and the Badgers finished 22nd as a team at the national championship.

• Menomonie’s Brooklyn Hoff completed her freshman year as a member of the UW-Stevens Point women’s cross country team. Hoff, who competed at the Wisconsin high school state cross country meet all four of her years at Menomonie, was the Pointers’ top finisher in three of the six meets she competed, included leading Stevens Point at the WIAC Women’s Cross Country Championship, Nov. 2, and the NCAA Division III Regional meet, Nov. 9. Hoff finished 43rd overall at the WIAC meet where she marked a career-best time of 23:09.2 and 45th overall at the regional meet with her second best time (23:20.5).

• Menomonie’s Madeline Palmer recently competed at the NCAA Division II Women’s Cross Country Chamionship as a member of the Winona State women’s cross country team. Palmer placed 231st at the national meet in Sacramento, Calif., Nov. 23. Palmer clocked a time of 24-minutes, 1.8-seconds in the 6-kilometer run. As a team, Winona State finished 14th. Palmer competed in seven cross country events this fall, tallying a career-best time of 22:30.1 at the NSIC Championship, finishing 37th overall, Oct. 26 where the Warriors were third as a team. Palmer placed 68th at the NCAA Division II Regional meet, Nov. 9, in a time of 22:38.8 as her team placed fourth and earned an at-large bid to the national championship. Palmer, a sophomore at Winona, was a two-time cross country Menomonie High School team captain and was a member of four conference championship teams. Palmer is also a member of the Warriors track and field team. 

Layne Pitt is the retired UW-Stout Sports Information director and also worked more than a decade at the Dunn County News.

Menomonie Collegians is a regular feature of Menomonie News Net. The column is not limited to student-athletes, but may be a former Menomonie area student in a play, forensics, music or any type of collegiate competition. If you know of a Menomonie Collegian, please email [email protected].

The column Menomonie Collegians by Layne Pitt is licensed under a CC BY SA 4.0 International license. https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/

For a Calendar of Events in the Menomonie Area, visit Kathy Weber’s Menomonie Minute.

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