Thanks for reading Issue 11 of Menomonie News Net. If you’ve missed Issues 1-10, you can catch up HERE. Subscriber numbers are now at 715. Keep spreading the word and sharing your donations …including an option to share in memory or honor of.

Thank you to the many volunteers who have and continue to work on bringing hyperlocal news to Menomonie. Today, a special thank you to Sue Brown, who graciously designed the logo you see above. Notice the wavy lines reminding us of the beautiful rivers and lakes that surround us and the large M, representing the bridges that help us traverse those waters and “bring us together.”

May Menomonie News Net help to build bridges that bring us together! Til next time…

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

Website: https://menomonienewsnet.org

Submit News: [email protected]

In This Issue

• Candlelight Ski Moved to End of February

• WIMA’s Vital Resource for Harm Reduction

• Navigating Executive Orders on Immigration for Schools

• Election Updates

• Bridge to Hope Fundraiser and Awareness Event

• Humane Society Art Market and Auction

• Public Meetings This Week

• Dunn County Aims to Sell Former Recycling Transfer Center

• Film Showing at UW-Stout

• Menomonie Collegians - Men’s Tennis

Candlelight Ski Moved to End of February

WIMA’s Vital Resource for Harm Reduction

Vending Machine Provides Free, Anonymous Life-Saving Supplies

By Andrew Garr

In a proactive effort to support community health and safety, Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance, Inc. (WIMA) has introduced a Public Health Vending Machine in Menomonie. This innovative, life-saving initiative provides access to essential supplies, such as Narcan (naloxone), fentanyl test strips, and other harm reduction materials. The vending machine is part of WIMA’s broader harm reduction strategy, which focuses on preventing overdoses, promoting safer drug use, and connecting people to vital health resources—without stigma or judgment.

What Is Harm Reduction?

Harm reduction is a public health philosophy that recognizes the reality of substance use and prioritizes minimizing its negative effects on individuals and communities. It seeks to keep people safe, healthy, and alive, regardless of whether they’re ready or willing to stop using drugs. Harm reduction strategies, such as providing access to clean needles or overdose-reversal medications like Narcan, have been proven to save lives, reduce the spread of infectious diseases, and connect individuals to treatment and recovery services.

“Harm reduction isn’t about condoning drug use; it’s about reducing the risks associated with it,” says Andrew Garr, Program Director at WIMA. “The goal is to keep people alive and as healthy as possible while supporting their autonomy and providing resources when they’re ready to seek help.”

How WIMA’s Vending Machine Works

Located in the Kaleidoscope Center in Menomonie, the Public Health Vending Machine is free to use and anonymous, with no questions asked. It’s stocked with life-saving supplies such as Narcan, which can reverse opioid overdoses, as well as fentanyl test strips that help users identify the presence of the dangerous synthetic opioid in their drugs.

In addition to these critical tools, the vending machine provides safer use kits and other resources aimed at reducing harm and promoting health among people who use drugs. This accessible service allows individuals to take steps to protect themselves and others from overdose, disease transmission, and other drug-related harms.

Why Harm Reduction Is Needed in Dunn County

Dunn County, like many communities in Wisconsin and across the U.S., has been deeply affected by the opioid epidemic and the rise in fentanyl-related overdoses. Fentanyl is a powerful synthetic opioid that is often mixed with other drugs, increasing the risk of accidental overdose. For people who use drugs—whether occasionally or regularly—access to harm reduction tools can mean the difference between life and death.

“Harm reduction resources are critical in our community because they meet people where they are,” explains Garr. “Our vending machine ensures that life-saving tools like Narcan are available, which is vital in preventing overdoses. The more barriers we remove to access, the more lives we can save.”

By offering anonymous, free access to these supplies, WIMA’s Public Health Vending Machine helps ensure that those who need them the most can get them without fear of stigma or legal repercussions.

Supporting Public Health Through Compassion

The stigma surrounding substance use often prevents people from seeking help or accessing harm reduction tools. WIMA’s vending machine addresses this issue by providing nonjudgmental, anonymous access to critical supplies. This not only supports individual health but also benefits the entire community by reducing the number of overdoses and promoting safer practices.

Research has shown that harm reduction strategies do not encourage drug use. In fact, they do the opposite: they empower people to make safer choices, provide a connection to healthcare, and reduce the likelihood of fatal overdoses. Many people who use harm reduction services eventually seek treatment for their substance use, but only if they feel safe and supported in doing so.

“Everyone deserves to be safe and have access to health resources, regardless of their circumstances,” says Garr. “Our vending machine is one way we’re making that happen in Dunn County.”

How to Access the Vending Machine

The WIMA Public Health Vending Machine is located at 800 Wilson Ave, Room 41 in the Kaleidoscope Center. For more information about the resources available through the vending machine or to learn about WIMA’s harm reduction initiatives, please call (715) 231-3055 or visit WIMA’s website at www.milkweedalliance.org.

A Needed Resource for a Healthier Community

By providing harm reduction tools in an accessible, non-stigmatizing way, WIMA is taking a crucial step toward improving public health and safety in Dunn County. The vending machine is more than just a service; it’s a reflection of WIMA’s commitment to meeting people where they are and supporting them on their journey toward health and well-being.

As the community continues to face the challenges of the opioid crisis, initiatives like WIMA’s Public Health Vending Machine offer practical, compassionate solutions that save lives and promote healing.

Andrew Garr is Program Director at Wisconsin Milkweed Alliance, Inc. He has been involved in peer support and mental health advocacy for over a decade.

Editor’s Note: an additional Public Health Kiosk is located at the entrance to the Dunn County Health Department, 3001 US Hwy 12 E, Unit 032 (lower level).

Navigating Executive Orders on Immigration for Schools

Administrator Zydowsky Interprets Executive Orders for SDMA

By Joe Zydowsky

A number of executive orders were signed by President Trump this week that impact schools all across the United States, including schools in the School District of the Menomonie Area (SDMA). The SDMA has already received questions about the new executive orders specific to birthright citizenship and immigration, and school officials continue to study how these changes affect schools in the local community. 

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI) has notified school districts that the executive order on birthright citizenship does not impact enrollment in public schools regardless of the outcome of the current legal challenges. 

According to DPI: 

• A learner has the right to enroll in a public school regardless of citizenship status (Titles IV and VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964).

• A learner has the right to receive a free and appropriate public education (14th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution).

• A learner has the right to enroll in and attend a public school without presenting a birth certificate, a green card, a visa, a social security number, or any other proof of citizenship (Titles IV and VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and 1982 Plyler v. Doe decision).

Information about the possibility of immigration enforcement actions in schools is a little more complex. DPI has shared that pre-existing federal guidance deems a school as a “sensitive location” or a “protected area” where federal immigration authorities should avoid or must obtain prior approval before conducting immigration activities. This guidance is dependent upon the outcome of legal challenges of the recent executive order. 

According to the DPI: 

• Schools may not turn over personally identifiable information to police, federal agents, or immigration officials without written consent from the parent or caregiver unless a warrant or subpoena is presented that specifies the individual by name and the information being requested (Wis. §118.125).

• An Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) warrant is not a warrant within the meaning of the Fourth Amendment of the U.S. Constitution because an ICE warrant is not supported by a showing of probable cause of a criminal offense and is not issued by a court judge or magistrate. Therefore, a school is not required to comply with an ICE warrant (4th Amendment of the U.S. Constitution).

Additional legal guidance that SDMA school officials have reviewed from the law firm Renning, Lewis, & Lacy includes:

• An ICE warrant may be executed on school grounds only with the consent of a school official. School officials are not obligated to give consent. Not doing so is not a matter of shielding the individual, but rather, as is always the case, preventing the school from becoming a law enforcement zone and thus disrupting the educational environment. ICE agents, like other law enforcement agents, have the capability of enforcing warrants elsewhere.

• If the agent presents a warrant, signed by a Judge or U.S. Magistrate and the warrant specifies access to the school to apprehend named individuals, then school officials must comply with the agents’ requests. School officials may still request that the agent allow school personnel to bring the individual to the office, rather than the agents moving through the school. School officials cannot prevent execution of a judicial warrant that specifies the school as the location of implementation.

Building principals, district administrators, and SDMA staff will continue to monitor how the new executive orders impact schools, but our commitment of doing our best to support SDMA students and families will not change.

Should school families or community stakeholders have any questions or concerns related to our schools, I invite you to contact administration at your child’s school, or visit me at the Administrative Service Center at 215 Pine Avenue NE, Menomonie.

More information about the SDMA can be found on the school district website (www.sdmaonline.com).

Joe Zydowsky is District Administrator, SDMA and can be reached at [email protected]

Election Updates

City Council Election

Seven candidates have filed nomination papers for six positions on Menomonie City Council in the April 1 election. 

Note: Laura McCullough, Ward 5, submitted a notification of non-candidacy.

• Ward 1: Jeff Luther (incumbent)

• Ward 3: Eric Sutherland (incumbent)

• Ward 5: Abigail Pickard

• Ward 7: Cody Gentz (incumbent)

• Ward 9: Chad Schlough (incumbent)

  Sydney Brennan

• Ward 11: Randy Sommerfeld (incumbent)

School Board Election

An election is scheduled in the Menomonie Area School District for Tuesday, April 1, 2025. There are three open positions, each for a three-year term ending in April 2028. Five candidates have registered to run for these positions.

On Friday, January 10, 2025, a drawing of lots was held to determine the order of names on the ballot. The order will be as follows:

1. Josie Pillman

2. Joyce Uhlir

3. Abe Smith (incumbent)

4. Rachel Henderson (incumbent)

5. Dominique Stewart (incumbent)

Bridge to Hope Annual Fundraiser & Awareness Event: Canvas of Hope

Human Trafficking Awareness Event Jan 30

What: Connecting the Dots

When/Where: January 30, 6-8 pm, Raw Deal, $40

 What to Expect: Unleash your inner artist and join us for an evening of creativity, laughter, and delicious sips! Guided painting session (no experience needed!) Plan to arrive a bit early to get your seats and get settled. Option to buy drinks and goodies from Raw Deal. A fun and relaxing atmosphere with friends

Tickets: Buy your ticket through the link here.

Humane Society Art Market & Auction

Donate Your Artwork to Support Shelter Pets

Public Meetings This Week

City of Menomonie Meetings

Jan 29 - Airport Commission 6pm

Feb 3 - City Council 7pm

Feb 4 - Tourism Commission 10am

Dunn County Meetings

Feb 5 - Planning, Resource & Development Committee

Dunn County Aims to Sell Former Recycling Transfer Station, Excess Lot

MENOMONIE, WI - The Dunn County Board of Supervisors has given tentative approval for the sale of the former transfer station the county used until it ended trash and recycling operations on Dec. 31, 2020.

The board, at its Jan. 15 meeting, also approved exploring the sale of a piece of land along Highway 29 in Menomonie that a developer has expressed an interest in for housing and a child-care facility.

“The board is interested in seeing what development possibilities exist for the former transfer station,” said Kris Korpela, County Manager, of the property at E3900 Highway 29, just west of Menomonie. “We are not using the facility now, and it is a shame to let the buildings sit unused.”

The board is offering the property, which has two buildings and about 10 acres, for sale via sealed bid. The Dunn County Facilities Committee will review the bids and recommend to the County Board which ones to accept or reject. Bid solicitation will occur in February.

The larger building of about 12,900 square feet was built in 1991 and was used as the transfer station. It essentially is a warehouse storage facility with an office and restroom. The second building of 1,200 square feet also is a warehouse facility.

"The property and structure are no longer able to be used for their original purpose and have been unused by the county for three years,” Korpela said. “With ongoing costs to maintain the property, an aging building, and expressed interest from third parties, the committee has decided a sale through a sealed bid process is the most appropriate way to move forward.”

The transfer station was an integral part of the county’s solid waste and recycling program, but it has been vacant since the county ended garbage and recycling collection efforts in 2021 after it became too costly for many local governments to participate. Local governments now operate their own programs in the county.

The board also authorized Korpela to negotiate with a developer for the potential sale of excess county land of nearly nine acres located between the Government Center and OakLeaf Clinic.

A developer contacted county administration with interest in developing the parcel for older adult housing and a childcare facility. A final sale would have to be approved by the County Board.

Kris Korpela, Dunn County Administrator, may be contacted at [email protected]

Film Showing at UW-Stout

The UW-Stout B.S. Video Production Program, in partnership with the UW-Stout Video Production Club will hold a public screening and Q&A with “February” director Nathan Deming and lead actor David Duran Tuesday, Feb. 4, from 5-6:30pm in the Harvey Hall Theater at UW-Stout. This event is open to the public and all are welcome.

Winner of the 2024 GOLDEN BADGER AWARD and the AUDIENCE CHOICE AWARD at the Wisconsin Film Festival, "February" is a film written and directed by Nathan Deming as a part of the "Year Project"

Miguel (David Duran) is a recent immigrant to a small Wisconsin town and struggling to fit in.  His sister (Nayeli Hernandez) is worried about him, her husband (Erick Inestroza) less so - until a strange man (Ritchie Gordon) offers to take Miguel ice fishing.

Writer/Director Nathan Deming (Speaking in Tongues) continues his "Year Project" with DP Leo Purman (The Legend of the Vagabond Queen of Lagos) and producer Adam Stunkle (Purity Camp).  Edited by Patricio de la Maza (Heat).​

Complete Release

Menomonie Collegians

It May Seem Early, but Tennis Season Gets Underway at the Collegiate Level

By Layne Pitt

Tennis is not really on the minds of those of us that live in wintry Wisconsin, but the collegiate tennis season gets underway in the end of January for three Menomonie High School graduates – Cole Witucki, Ethan Wurtzel and Dominik Hendrickson – who are all playing at the NCAA Division III level.

Witucki is playing at Lawrence University in Appleton, Wurtzel plays at UW-Eau Claire and Hendrickson at UW-Stevens Point.

Cole Witucki, So, Lawrence University

Witucki captured a 6-1, 6-1, No. 6 singles win in the Vikings’ spring opener, Jan. 25, against St. Mary’s University. Lawrence will host Northwestern Feb. 1. During his freshman year during the (2023-24), Witucki posted a 4-8 record in singles and 2-13 at doubles, playing mostly at No. 2 and at No. 3 doubles with three different partners.

While at Menomonie High School, Witucki played No. 1 doubles and was a three-time WIAA State Championship qualifier (2021, 2022, 2023). Wituck was a two-time first-team All-Big Rivers Conference (BRC) selection (2021, 2023) and a second-team All-BRC pick in 2022. Witucki captured a runner-up finish at the WIAA Division I Sectional Championships and was a BRC runner-up in 2021 and 2023. A two-year tennis team captain, Witucki also earned team MVP honors.

Ethan Wurtzel, Sr, UW-Eau Claire

UW-Eau Claire played a pair of exhibition matches in the fall and competed in the 2024 ITA Regional Championship at Gustavus Adolphus College. Wurtzel competed in the meet, one of the top NCAA Division III tennis tournaments in the Midwest, falling in the first round, winning the first set, 6-2, but dropping the second and third sets, 6-1, 10-5. During the 2023-24 season, Wurtzel finished with a 4-3 overall record at singles and a 5-2 record in doubles.

A team captain while at Menomonie High School, Wurtzel earned team MVP honors in 2019, was a two-time team captain (2018, 2019) and was a two-time second team All-BRC pick (2018, 2019). The Blugolds will open the spring 2025 season Saturday, Feb. 1, at Menards Tennis Center against Concordia, Wis.

Dominik Hendrickson, Sr, UW-Stevens Point

After beginning his collegiate career at UW-Superior, Dom Hendrickson is in the midst of his second season at UW-Stevens Point. During his first season at Stevens Point (2023-24), Hendrickson recorded the second-most wins at doubles with four. The Pointers played seven matches in the fall, going 4-3, but Hendrickson played in only one match, dropping his long doubles match at No. 3 doubles.

While at Menomonie, Hendrickson was a four-year letterwinner and and a first team all-conference player. The Pointers return to action Feb. 1 with a pair of matches at Coe College, along with Carthage.

It’s not often this part of the state gets to celebrate a national championship. Carson Hinzman of St. Croix Central High School in Hammond was the starting center of The Ohio State University national championship football team. The Buckeyes defeated Notre Dame 34-23 Jan. 20. Hinzman, a native of rural Spring Valley, is the son of Jon and Tera Hinzman.

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 MHS 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/

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.

Please forward this newsletter to others and encourage them to subscribe for free and pass it on.

Please donate if you can!
We are committed to offering news and information for free! But your tax-deductible donation will help cover expenses, hire part-time staff and reach sustainability.

Volunteer!
Want to help us build this news source? We welcome volunteers! We need help with note-taking in-person or digitally for public meetings, taking/sending photos to share, grant-writing, article writing, sharing story ideas and many other tasks. [email protected]