Your Menomonie News Net has completed 3 months of weekly issues. It’s heartening to see the initial response from our community. With 780 subscribers and dozens of donors we look forward to MNN providing Menomonie with local news that informs, connects and engages.

The photo below taken of the sculpture at Wakanda Park yesterday depicts the love for/in this community. And here (with help from AI) a depiction in words:

Strangers here are friends untold, a smile, a story, a hand to hold. The theater shines, the campus sings, the heart of home in simple things. Beyond the streets, the fields run wide, where roots grow deep and dreams abide. No one stays a stranger long, in a place where hearts belong.

Happy Valentine’s Day!

Editors: Layne Pitt & Becky Kneer; Tech Support: Tracy Glenz

Website: menomonienewsnet.org Submit News: [email protected]

In this Issue…

• Monarch House Receives Donation

• Election Updates: Voter Fraud

• Chilly Checklist

• Free Tax Preparation Assistance

• Menomonie Rotary Grants

• Blood Drives in Menomonie

• Barbershopper of the Year

• NEW: Well Water Testing at Health Dept

• Public Meetings this Week

• MHS Students to Congratulate

• Zuerlein, Corning To Enter WIAC Hall of Fame

Monarch House Receives Donation of AED

Dunn Energy Cooperative Supports Local Mental Health Facility

By Andrew Garr

Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance, Inc. (WIMA) and Monarch House Peer Run Respite extend their heartfelt gratitude to the Dunn Energy Cooperative for their generous $2,000 donation through the Operation Round Up Program. This contribution funded the purchase of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED), a lifesaving addition to the Monarch House facility.

The AED represents far more than a piece of medical equipment—it is a symbol of care, compassion, and community solidarity. At Monarch House, a safe haven for individuals experiencing personal crises, the AED enhances our ability to respond swiftly to cardiac emergencies, ensuring the safety and wellbeing of our guests. For those facing significant mental health challenges, this resource offers peace of mind to them and their families, underscoring our commitment to holistic care.

“Our mission at Monarch House is to provide a welcoming space where individuals can find respite during challenging times,” said Andrew Garr, Program Director at WIMA. “This AED could truly mean the difference between life and death, and having it here underscores our dedication to the health and safety of everyone who walks through our doors.”

A Testament to Community Support

This donation exemplifies the power of collaborative action and highlights the deep connection between Monarch House and the broader Dunn County community. Through the Operation Round Up Program, the Dunn County Energy Cooperative has once again demonstrated its unwavering commitment to making a positive impact in the lives of local residents.

“This gift strengthens not only Monarch House but also the bond we share with the organizations and individuals working tirelessly to improve lives in our community,” Garr added.

The presence of an AED aligns with WIMA’s overarching mission of providing accessible, compassionate support while addressing critical health and safety needs. Monarch House continues to foster an environment where guests are not only supported emotionally but also physically protected in emergencies.

Building a Resilient Community Together

This act of generosity serves as a reminder that no organization can work alone in addressing community needs. Monarch House and WIMA are grateful for the partnerships that enable them to serve those who rely on their services.

To learn more about Monarch House Peer Run Respite or to explore ways to support its mission, visit www.milkweedalliance.org

Andrew Garr is the Program Director at Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance, Inc. (WIMA). He is a passionate advocate for peer support and community-driven solutions to mental health and substance use challenges.

Election Updates

Otter Creek Caucus Re-Vote for Supervisor After Residency Issue

By Renee Carrell

On January 14, a caucus vote was held at the Otter Creek Town Hall to determine the candidates for Supervisor 2 on the Otter Creek Town Board. The position was contested by Bob Bernier (incumbent), Jon Robinson, and Jeff Dehnhoff. Since only two names could appear on the ballot, a caucus was required.

The caucus vote was conducted using anonymous paper ballots.. The results were as follows: Bernier received 7 votes, Robinson 5, and Dehnhoff 4. One individual abstained.

It was later discovered that a non-resident attendee had improperly participated in the caucus. As a result, a second vote was scheduled for Tuesday, Jan. 21,  also at the Otter Creek Town Hall. This meeting drew a larger crowd, including two Sheriff’s deputies present to ensure the process remained orderly.

The second vote, also conducted via anonymous paper ballots, resulted in the nominations of Bob Bernier and Jeff Dehnhoff for Supervisor 2, making a third caucus unnecessary.

The meeting concluded without incident. The election for the Otter Creek Town Board is set to take place on Tuesday, April 1, at the Town Hall. Chair LeAnn Ralph and Supervisor 1 Cecil Hayes, both incumbents, are running for re-election.

Charges of voter fraud are pending against the non-resident who participated in the initial caucus.

Renee Carrell is a Town of Otter Creek resident, NoteTaker at meetings and poll worker.

Chilly Checklist Drawings Run through March

There’s still time (through March) to submit photos of you doing your favorite winter activity. Every two weeks a winner is drawn to receive a $50 Chamber Check & more. (Winners announced on Explore Menomonie Facebook page). To submit a photo click here.

Sponsored by Explore Menomonie & Health Dunn Right (Health Coalition)

Free Tax Preparation Assistance Available

Did you know that free tax preparation assistance is available in Menomonie?

An AARP Foundation Tax-Aide will help get your tax returns filled out and filed. You’ll get assistance from volunteers certified by the IRS. You can also have your tax return sent electronically for free.

From now through April 8 both face-to-face and drop-off service is offered. The program is aimed at those with low to moderate income, age 50 and older, and doesn’t require AARP membership.

Appointments are required and can be made for Tuesdays or Thursdays between 8:45am - 3:30pm. Call Dunn County ADRC at 715-232-4006 to schedule.

Location of services is the Dunn County Government Center, Rm 60; 3001 US Highway 12 E, Menomonie. Click here for a list of documents to bring.

Source: AARP Website

Menomonie Rotary Funds Local Nonprofits & Groups

$10,000 in grants were recently awarded to 11 non-profit and community groups at the Menomonie Rotary January 22 meeting, including: DC Association for Home & Community Education (HCE), DC Historical Society, Girls on the Run, Greater Menomonie Free Clinic, Junior Achievement, Landmark Conservancy, Mabel Tainter, Menomonie Public Library, Menomonie Youth Hockey, Monday’s Meal at United Methodist Church, and Reach Out and Read. The Annual Rotary Rose Sale supports these grants.

Source: Menomonie Rotary Facebook page

Menomonie Upcoming Blood Drives

Critical Need for Blood Donors

Severe winter weather and wildfires have forced thousands of blood donations to go uncollected. There is an emergency shortage of platelets, as well as types O negative and B negative blood. Donors are needed TODAY!

During the month of March, the American Red Cross will expand its health offerings to include free A1C testing for all donors who successfully give blood, platelets or plasma. The A1C test is used to screen for prediabetes and diabetes and measures your average blood sugar over the past three months by checking how much hemoglobin in red blood cells is bound to sugar. No fasting is needed, and you’ll be able to view your results within the Blood Donor App or in your Red Cross online account within one to two weeks.

Upcoming blood drives in Menomonie are:

Fri Feb 14:  Menomonie Leisure Services Center, 9am-3pm

Mon Feb 24:   Menomonie United Methodist Church, Noon - 6pm

Tues, Mar 4: UW-Stout, 10am - 4pm

To find upcoming blood donor drives in Menomonie, and/or to make an appointment click here.

You can also call 1-800-RED CROSS.

Source: American Red Cross 

Barbershopper of the Year

Ochs recipient of 2024 award

The Dunn County Chapter of the Barbershop Harmony Society has announced that Fred Ochs has been selected the 2024 Barbershopper of the Year for his contributions to the chapter. “Fred is in charge of our website and managing our repertoire on the page, adding new learning tracks for all of us. He is active in all aspects of the chorus and rarely misses a practice or sing out.”

Source: Dunn County Chapter of Barbershop Harmony Society Facebook 

Well Water Testing Now Available at Health Department

The Health Department’s Water Lab is now accepting well water samples for bacteria and nitrate testing. Sample kits can be picked up at the Health Department, Dunn County Govt Center, 3001 US Hwy 12, Suite 032, Menomonie.

Samples Accepted: Mon-Wed: 8am-4pm; Thur: 8am-12pm

Cost: Bacteria Testing: $25.00 Nitrate Testing: $30.00

It’s recommended that well water be tested every year for bacteria and nitrates. It should also be tested if the water starts to taste, look, or smell different.

For questions contact the Environmental Health Team at [email protected]

Public Meetings This Week

City of Menomonie Meetings  

Click HERE for calendar. (To subscribe to receive calendar notices sent to you click HERE)

Mon Feb 17: City Council - 7pm; Wed Feb 19: Urban Forestry Meeting - 1pm

School District of Menomonie Meetings

Click HERE for the calendar with more details

Dunn County Meetings

Click HERE for Calendar, Documents, Recordings & Public Commenting

Wed Feb 12 - Executive Committee - 3:30pm; Mon Feb 17 - Board of Adjustments Meeting - 10:30am; Tue Feb 18 - Community Resources and Tourism - 4:30pm; Wed Feb 19 - Planning, Resources and Development Committee - 8:30am; Wed Feb 19 - Board of Supervisors - 7pm

MHS Students to Congratulate

The following is taken from MHS Online Daily Announcements. If you wish to have the announcements sent to your email you can sign up by clicking here.

Please congratulate Taylor Hoff, Maggie Winsand, Evelyn Doyle and Bridgette Coleman for qualifying for HOSA State (Future Health Professionals).

Congratulations to our National Ocean Science Bowl Team. Enzo Parent, Jonathon Foslid, Nora Skorczewski, Emily Hoyland, Katelian Bossany, Allison Dickman, and McKenzie Thatcher traveled to (UW-Milwaukee Great Lakes Research Facility) on Feb 9th & 10th to compete against schools from across Wisconsin to Illinois & Missouri in the Lake Sturgeon Bowl Midwest Regional Competition. (Teams are tested on their understanding of the oceans and Great Lakes). The team represented Menomonie well, earning 4th Place and an Honorable Mention for Excellent Sportsmanship. Great job, team!

Please congratulate the following FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America) members who competed February 5th at UW-Stout Region 1 & 2 Competition: Lauren Alexander - Gold - Culinary Baking Demonstration; Samantha Anderson & Chloe Bablick - Silver - Focus On Children; Gabriella Anderson & Alissa Vilz - Bronze - Child Care Activity; Marie Zunker - Bronze - Career Investigation.

Source: MHS Online Daily Announcements

Zuerlein, Corning to Enter WIAC Hall of Fame

By Matt Stanek, WIAC

MENOMONIE - John Zuerlein will join two other former UW-Stout athletic greats and a former Menomonie principal when he is inducted into the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC) Hall of Fame in July.

Zuerlein, who resides in North Menomonie, started the UW-Stout men's gymnastics program when he was a Stout student in 1962. Zuerlein coached the men's gymnastics team until 1983 and coached the women's gymnastics program from 1979 to 1994. Blue Devils Amy Jamieson, a three-sport standout in basketball, tennis and softball, and Ben Knepper, a football All-American, will join Zuerlein, as will Greg Corning, a former principal in the Menomonie school district and a standout football player at UW-River Falls.

The four will be part of a 25-member class for 2025 to be inducted at the WIAC Hall of Fame Banquet to be held on July 26, 2025, and hosted by UW-Stout at the Memorial Student Center in the Great Hall. The 25 individuals will join a prestigious conference Hall of Fame that includes 114 members.

Find the complete story on the Menomonie News Net website. MNN writer Layne Pitt contributed to this story.

Matt Stanek is the assistant commissioner for media relations for the Wisconsin Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (WIAC). Layne Pitt is the retired UW-Stout Sports Information director.

Menomonie Mustangs Athletics and Activities | UW-Stout Blue Devil Athletics 

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

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