Welcome to Menomonie News Net, Vol 2, Issue 13. If you missed previous Issues, you can catch up HERE.

In today’s issue we continue our highlighting of another local nonprofit organization…VFW Post 1039. Together with the American Legion Hosford-Chase Post 32, which we featured in the Nov 19 issue, we learn how these organizations impact community…through Honor Guard presence at funerals, military ceremonies and the financial support they provide. Another goal in featuring nonprofits is to assist in recruitment to ensure they can remain viable. I encourage veterans to consider joining one or both…as a show of support…even if unable to be actively involved.

AND…don’t forget to exercise your civic right to vote next Tuesday, Feb 17 in the mayoral primary for Menomonie residents! Watch for more information on the election from MNN in the next couple of days.

Thank YOU to our readers, subscribers and donors; you’re why we’re here. As always donations accepted online or by mail: checks to MNN, P.O. Box 63, Menomonie. (Options: in memory/honor of, recurring, anonymous, and more).

Editorial Team: Layne Pitt, Becky Kneer, Marsha Biggs; MNN Contributors; Advisory Team Volunteers; Tech Support: Tracy Glenz

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

In this Issue…

• Stepping Stones Hosts ‘Coldest Night of Year’ Fundraiser

• Dunn County Hires Chief Financial Officer

• MHS Grads: Mindy Clausing Huntress - ‘00

• Valentine’s Day Events

• VFW Post 1039 - Recruiting Members

• Give Big Valleys Returns With Early Bird Registration

• The Journal Speaks Back

• Recycling Center Accepting Items

• Dunn County 4-H in Action

• Free In-Person Tax Preparation Available

• Public Meetings: Week of Feb 11-18

• Menomonie Events at a Glance Feb 11-18

• MHS Extracurricular Activities

• Menomonie Collegians: Feddersen, Baseball, Softball

Stepping Stones Hosts First ‘Coldest Night of the Year’ Fundraiser Walk

MENOMONIE – For the first time, Stepping Stones of Dunn County is hosting a Coldest Night of the Year (CNOY) fundraising walk on Saturday, February 28. This family-friendly winter event invites people across Menomonie to walk together and raise funds for those experiencing hunger, hurt, and homelessness.

CNOY is a nationwide movement held in more than 300 cities and towns across North America. On one night, tens of thousands of walkers will brave the cold together, raising millions for local charities who provide food, shelter, and support.

The Stepping Stones walk begins and ends at UW-Stout MSC located at 302 10th Avenue E with check-in on the second floor.

4:00 pm: Meet Check-in
4:45 pm: Muster Gather for Opening Remarks
5:00 pm: Move Send-off
6:00 pm: Munch Light meal served

Participants will choose a 2 km or 5 km route, warm up at rest stops with hot drinks, and celebrate at the finish line.

Fundraisers who raise $150 (adults) or $75 (youth 0-17) will earn the iconic CNOY winter hat.

“We’re excited to launch our very first Coldest Night event,” said Tina Hanley, Event Director “Every step our walkers take will help Stepping Stones support vulnerable neighbors here in Menomonie and throughout Dunn County. We can’t wait to see our community come together for this cause - it's cold out there!”

Registration is open at cnoy.com/menomonie

For more information contact Tina Hanley [email protected]

Source: news release

Dunn County Hires Chief Financial Officer

MENOMONIE - Dunn County has filled a key administration position by hiring Brittany Andrews as its new Chief Financial Officer.

“Brittany is a collaborative leader with a demonstrated ability to manage projects, navigate challenges, and work effectively across teams in both private-sector and nonprofit settings,” said Dunn County Manager Dan Dunbar. “Her approach will strengthen our administrative team.”

A Menomonie native, Andrews brings a strong background in financial and administrative support, including extensive experience with accounts payable and receivable, vendor invoicing, benefits coordination, and payroll management.

In addition to her professional experience, Andrews provides operational leadership for Tails of Hope–WI, a regional rescue nonprofit.

Andrews graduated with a Bachelor of Science degree in Accounting from the University of Wisconsin–Eau Claire. She also completed an Assistant Accounting Technical Program at Chippewa Valley Technical College.

“Growing up in Dunn County has shaped who I am,” Andrews shared in her application. “The opportunity to support the financial stability and public service mission of the community I love is truly meaningful.”

She began her role on January 20.

Source: news release

By Judy Foust

This interview turned out to be an adventure! Mindy Clausing Huntress is another former student of mine. I should have known this would be a learning experience when we arranged to meet at her art studio/gallery in Banbury Place, Eau Claire.

Mindy attended Oaklawn Elementary and improved her art skills . When asked what classes and teachers she remembered most at MHS, her immediate response was her pottery teacher Grant Ruegnitz, her metals/jewelry-making teacher Bill Norton, and Margaret Kitze, her English Composition teacher who demanded excellence in students’ writings. All three of these educators left their mark on Mindy.

During high school Mindy also participated in cross-country and high school band, playing the saxophone. In addition she participated in Color Guard and Rifle & Saber Spinning winter competitions.

During high school Mindy worked in Walmart’s jewelry department, providing her with valuable sales and marketing experience.

After graduating from high school, Mindy attended UW-Stout for one year, then took a year off to have her son Dominic in 2002. She later returned to school from 2003 to 2006 before eventually moving to Colorado. By that time, painting had been her primary passion.

In 2011, she began selling her art online. That same year, she had her first gallery show at the Caggio Gallery in Milwaukee, where she was offered the main exhibition room. Her work was also featured on promotional postcards for the show.

Mindy returned to Menomonie in 2012 and later landed a spot at the Blue Heron Gallery in Port Washington, Wisconsin, where she exhibited her work for eight years.
She moved to Eau Claire in 2015 and continued exhibiting with Blue Heron Gallery until it closed in 2020. When COVID impacted daily life in early 2020, Mindy remained largely sequestered, spending much of her time painting.

After the pandemic, Mindy began focusing on local markets, outdoor art fairs and regional shows. She became a member of Artisan Forge Gallery in 2022.

Since then, Mindy has been steadily building her artistic reputation in the Eau Claire area. She founded Eau Claire Creatives, a group that meets every two weeks and alternates between social gatherings and art critiques. She is also involved with the Valley Art Association.

Mindy has a studio and gallery space in Banbury Place. Prints of her colorful, imaginative paintings fill the walls and are available for sale. Her original acrylic paintings have an enthusiastic following, with collectors both locally and across the country. Mindy gladly shares her artistic visions and fantasy-based inspirations with any visitors who ask about her work.

Mindy’s son Dominic helps with the business by assisting with show setup and teardown, cashiering, and preparing artwork for shipment.

In addition to her prolific painting practice, Mindy also applies her organizational and writing skills to producing promotional materials for Banbury Place. She heads up the Banbury Art Crawl, coordinating vendor placement and creating marketing and promotional content for the event.

Outside of the studio, Mindy and Dominic love spending time outdoors, especially hiking. One of their favorite destinations is the Minnesota Zoo, which Mindy hopes will someday inspire a series of animal paintings. She also enjoys plein-air painting whenever possible.

In closing, I asked Mindy what she most remembered about growing up in Menomonie. Attending the Ludington Guard band concerts and participating in the high school band were special memories, and she fondly recalls the community pie socials at the Congregational Church.

After spending time with Mindy at her studio, I strongly encourage you to visit her there. Her work is unique, colorful, symbolic and stunning. In fact, I ended up purchasing one of her large prints for my home!

Although I’d had Mindy as a seventh grader, I discovered that I really knew very little about who she actually is. Her soft-spoken enthusiasm and thoughtful energy are inspiring. Menomonie is fortunate to call Mindy Clausing Huntress one of our own!

website: mindyhuntress.com facebook page  online store

Studio: Banbury Place, Studio 120, 800 Wisconsin St, Eau Claire

Judy Foust is a retired longtime 7th grade Reading Specialist at Menomonie Middle School. To submit info to her or to request an interview she may be contacted at [email protected]

Valentine’s Day Events in Menomonie

Downtown Menomonie, City, Library host events

Saturday, February 14 10am - 4pm

Hosted by Downtown Menomonie

Each participating business will have a cozy free sample available on Saturday, February 14, during their open hours. Samples may be Swiss Miss hot cocoa varieties, cookies, a chocolate treat, ice cream, or a DIY craft.

February 14-20

Spend the week filling up a Cozy Passport while you shop. Visit participating buisnesses and get your passport stamped. Once you collect 10+ punches, turn your card back into any participating business to be entered to win the grand prize cozy basket!

Saturday, February 14 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM

Menomonie Public Library – Meeting Room

Calling all adults! Celebrate Valentine’s Day with a cozy, creative morning at the Menomonie Public Library.

Join us for Valentine’s Collage & Cocoa, a relaxed crafting event focused on self-love, friendship, and creativity. Participants will create Valentine’s cards or collages using provided materials while enjoying free cocoa and treats.

This event is an official stop on the Downtown Menomonie Cozy Cocoa Crawl, making it an easy and fun way to explore downtown while warming up with cocoa.

This program is for adults only, no crafting experience is needed. Come as you are and enjoy a welcoming space to create.

Space is limited, and registration via RSVP (top of page) is required. Free cocoa provided.

Source: Library Facebook event

Celebrate Valentine’s Day outdoors at Wolske Bay with free ice skating, free hot cocoa, and a free shuttle to make getting there easy. Join us for a cozy winter afternoon on the ice, where families, friends, and neighbors can skate together, warm up with cocoa, and enjoy the winter lights and sunset over the bay.

The event takes place on Saturday, February 14 from 2 to 6 pm and is free and open to all ages. Whether you stay for the full afternoon or stop by for a quick skate, this is a relaxed and festive way to spend Valentine’s Day enjoying winter in Menomonie.

All event parking is located at Lakeside Park. A free shuttle will run continuously between Lakeside Park and Wolske Bay from 2 to 6 pm. Wolske Bay Road will be closed during the event. Limited handicap-accessible parking will be available directly at Wolske Bay Park.

A variety of skate sizes will be available for use, with loaner skates generously provided by American Edge Real Estate.

A huge thank you to Nicole Keck, Jeff Peterson, and all of our amazing volunteers for helping light up the island and make this event possible.

Come celebrate the season with us—bring your friends, family, and winter spirit!

Source: City of Menomonie Facebook event

VFW Post 1039 Continues 95 Years of Service with Member Recruitment Appeal

Since receiving its charter in 1931, Menomonie’s Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1039 has remained steadfast in its mission to serve veterans, their families and the broader community. Nearly a century later, the Post continues to live by the VFW motto: “No One Does More for Veterans.”

Today, Post 1039 is led by Commander Bill Foslid and Adjutant/Quartermaster Marlin Severson. The organization meets on the second Monday of each month at 6 p.m. at the Moose Lodge in Menomonie. Annual dues are $35.

Severson, who helps coordinate the Post’s activities and community outreach, said the group’s strength lies in its commitment to community service and support. His wife, Judy Severson, is also involved, assisting with the community’s annual Memorial Day ceremonies and other activities.

Honoring Those Who Served

One of the Post’s most visible roles is leading the Menomonie Veterans Honor Guard. The Honor Guard provides military funeral honors for local veterans, ensuring each service member receives a dignified farewell. They work together with other local veterans organizations such as Menomonie’s American Legion Hosford-Chase Post 32, DAV, AMVETS and Vietnam Veterans of America.

The group also presents the colors at flag raisings, dedications and civic events, and plays a central role in Veterans Day, Flag Day and Memorial Day programs throughout the county.

“These ceremonies are some of the most important things we do,” Severson said. “It’s making sure veterans are not forgotten.”

Part of a Regional Network

Post 1039 is part of the VFW Ninth District, which includes 11 counties in western Wisconsin. Dunn County is also home to VFW Post 10424 in Wheeler, led by Commander Roger Hanson who recently established a new veterans memorial, further strengthening recognition efforts in the county.

Broad Community Support

Beyond ceremonies and veteran advocacy, Post 1039 provides financial donations (approx $8,000/yr) and volunteer support to a wide range of organizations.

Veteran-focused initiatives include outdoor recreation programs (Camp Valor, Outdoor Adventures, Chippewa Falls Veterans Home) PTSD therapy services (Trinity Equestrian), service dog organizations (Dog 2 Dog Tags, Retrievers for Warriors), housing assistance efforts, memorial projects (The Highground), disaster relief funds (VFW Disaster Relief) and Freedom Honor Flights. The Post supports programs that help recover the remains of missing service members (Bring Them Home) and provides assistance to veterans facing financial hardship (gift cards to the local Veteran Service Office).

Housing and family assistance are also priorities. The Post contributes to organizations that provide free lodging for families of hospitalized veterans (Fisher House Wisconsin, Ronald McDonald House), housing for homeless children and families, local food shelves (Stepping Stones, Food Harvest Ministry), homeless shelters and holiday meal programs for veterans in need, as well as household furnishings for veterans (Sofas for Service).

Marlin highlighted the annual Ninth District Golf Outing, which is co-sponsored with Menomonie Firefighters. He is proud to note that over $122,000 has been raised in the past 9 years to help needy veterans and their families in western WI.

Youth and education programs receive strong backing as well. Post 1039 sponsors local participation in high school Voice of Democracy and middle school Patriot’s Pen essay contests. They also honor graduating seniors entering military service at the annual High School to Heroes Dinner, and support scholarships. Donations also go toward scouting programs, drug prevention education (Dunn Co Sheriff's DARE drug program) and Special Olympics Wisconsin, along with other community initiatives.

Recruiting New Members

As the Post looks to the future, leaders are encouraging eligible veterans to consider joining.

Membership is open to veterans who have served overseas in a location of foreign conflict and meet VFW eligibility requirements. New members help ensure the continuation of funeral honors, youth programs, scholarships and community support efforts.

Marlin suggested that veterans interested in learning more or joining VFW Post 1039 can contact him at 715-308-6119 or by email at [email protected]

Prospective members are also welcome to attend a monthly meeting at the Moose Lodge on the second Mondays at 6 p.m. Call ahead to confirm.

In addition, donations from community members or businesses are welcome. Contact Marlin.

For more than 95 years, VFW Post 1039 has blended tradition with service — honoring fallen veterans while investing in the future of the community. With continued support and new members stepping forward, the Post stands ready to serve for generations to come!

Give Big Valleys Returns April 28, Uniting Six Counties for One Day of Local Giving

Early bird discounted registration runs through Fri Feb 13 at noon

MENOMONIE - United Way St. Croix and Red Cedar Valleys (UW Valleys) is inviting nonprofit organizations and community members across Burnett, Dunn, Pepin, Pierce, Polk, and St. Croix counties to take part in Give Big Valleys, a one day online giving event taking place Tuesday, April 28.

Give Big Valleys is a 24-hour community wide fundraising event that encourages individuals and businesses to visit givebigvalleys.org, connect with the causes they care about, and make donations to local nonprofit organizations. The event takes place on the last Tuesday in April and brings together nonprofits serving communities throughout the St. Croix and Red Cedar Valleys.

The giving day is designed to build awareness, strengthen nonprofit capacity, and generate critical resources for organizations providing services across the region. Participating nonprofits represent a wide range of missions, including health and human services, children and families, education, arts and culture, animals, parks and recreation, and more.

In 2025, Give Big Valleys raised $344,960 in just 24 hours. A total of 885 donors supported 81 local nonprofit organizations, demonstrating the impact that collective giving can have across western Wisconsin. Funds raised through Give Big Valleys help nonprofits continue providing essential programs and services while also expanding their reach and visibility in the community.

Give Big Valleys is a program of UW Valleys and is made possible through partnerships with area sponsors, nonprofit leaders, and volunteers. UW Valleys provides an online giving platform, training opportunities, technical assistance, and shared marketing resources to participating organizations, helping make fundraising more accessible for nonprofits of all sizes.

New for 2026, UW Valleys is introducing an early bird registration option for nonprofit organizations participating in Give Big Valleys. Nonprofits that register early will receive a discounted registration rate before standard pricing begins. Early bird registration runs through Friday, February 13 at noon.

“Early bird registration gives nonprofits a head start on planning and promotion,” said Megan Hausch, Director of Development for UW Valleys. “Registering early allows organizations more time to prepare their campaigns, engage supporters, and build momentum leading up to giving day.”

Source: news release

How Journaling Reveals Clarity, Discovery, and Your Morning

By John Wilkerson

Journaling carries a power beyond storytelling. For many, putting personal thoughts and emotions onto paper is a way to process both the trials and the joys of our lives. I do this with my own writing.

By February, New Year’s resolutions are often a memory, and we’re once again facing the quiet pressure of why. Why is a difficult word. The more words we place in front of it to ask a question, the easier the answer becomes, but used as its own island of inquisition, why carries immense power.

This is where personal journaling earns its place, not as self-help or therapy, but as a daily act of orientation.

Over the years, I have come to see journaling as a way to do three essential things: clarify of self, discover emotion, and claim my day before the world speaks.

Clarity

Most of us believe we know our values. We say things like family, independence, faith, hard work, or integrity, but when you read back through honest writing, patterns appear that surprise you. What we repeatedly write about is what we are actually organizing our lives around, not what we wish we were.

Journaling gives clarity a paper trail. It shows where our attention goes under stress, what angers us enough to keep returning to the page, and what moments we protect without fully realizing it. Over time, you stop guessing what matters and start seeing it.

This clarity changes decision-making. When you know what you value, you argue less with yourself. You say no faster. You feel steadier, even when choices are difficult.

Discovery

Many people avoid journaling because they fear it will pull them too far inward. That fear is understandable. Emotions can feel unruly when they remain unnamed. The written page does something different. It slows down emotional absorption.

Writing does not demand that you fix how you feel. It asks only that you notice it. When you describe an emotion rather than react to it, you create a small, healthy distance. That is perspective.

Over time, emotions become signals rather than verdicts. You learn the difference between passing frustration and something that deserves attention. This is emotional maturity, not emotional intensity.

The Quiet Power of the Morning

Morning journaling works best when it is an invitation, not a command.

You don’t need a long session, ten minutes is enough. What matters is that you write before the day assigns you an identity, before email, news, or obligation defines who you are supposed to be.

Morning writing clears static. It gives your nervous system a sense of authorship. You start the day having already spoken once in your own voice.

Practically, this often leads to better focus, calmer transitions, and fewer reactive decisions. Emotionally, it builds trust with yourself. You show up daily, even briefly, and that consistency compounds. At its best, journaling is not about improvement. It is about presence. You are saying, “I’m worth listening to before I try to change.” That alone alters how the day unfolds.

If you are curious about starting, or returning to the page, here are three simple prompts you can use tomorrow morning:

· What felt heavy yesterday?
· What am I joyful for today?
· Why? - Yeah, I slipped in the why questions just for fun.

You do not need better answers. You only need real ones.

John Wilkerson works most days writing and fiddling with his computer. His new, old, home in Menomonie is constantly subjected to DIY mayhem. His background includes ghost writing, newspaper reporting, and a stretch in marketing and advertising. John may be contacted at: [email protected]

Recycling Center Accepting Items

Recyc-All Services - Electronics Recycling

Address: 814 14th Ave E, Unit 2, Menomonie Phone: 715-459-5195

February HOURS: Feb 11 - Feb 21 9am - 4pm

Days & times can change. Check Facebook or call.

No Charge For: Audio Visual equipment & accessories; Batteries- all kinds; Cell phones/chargers; Computers & accessories; Ink/Toner cartridges; Furnaces-gas/electric; Gaming systems; Hand held devices; Microwaves and other appliances; Ovens/stoves; Remote controls, wires, cables; Power tools; Vacuum cleaners; Washers/dryers; Water heaters

Items We Charge For: CRT TVs & monitors (tube); Projection TVs; LCD TVs; Printers; Copiers (see Facebook page for prices)

Not Accepting Freon items (refrigerators, freezers, air conditioners, dehumidifiers). For Freon items contact Ridgeland Appliance 715-309-2022

Collecting for Lions Club: Eyeglasses, Hearing aids, Ink & toner cartridges

Not Buying scrap metals (but WILL accept metal, tin, copper, aluminum, stainless, brass, small car parts, ballasts, lead, electric motors, transformers, and wiring)

NOT accepting aluminum cans

Source: Recyc-All Facebook Page

Dunn County 4-H in Action

It has been a busy month for our 4-H Youth.

First, they had a chance to shine at UW-Stout 4-H STEM Days where they made Lithophane light boxes. The instructors at UW-Stout’s “Fab Lab” demonstrated to the group how to 3D print photographs and laser cut wood pieces to make their boxes. Plus, they gave the 4-H’ers a chance to do some soldering on their own.

Then, the Dunn County 4-H Youth did an outstanding job at the Tri-County (Dunn, Chippewa and Eau Claire) 4-H and Demonstration Festival held at the Elk Mound High School on January 31. We couldn’t have been more pleased with the efforts the 4-H youth put into their presentations and we are grateful to be able to collaborate with the Elk Mound School District to allow us to use their facilities. We are looking forward to the Tri-County Performing Arts Festival also held at the Elk Mound High School on March 7 where 4-H youth will showcase their music and dramatic abilities.

We are delighted to offer an “Around the World in 80 Minutes” spring break program to all Dunn County youth in grades K-4. Youth will make suitcases, get passports and "travel" to different places around the world making instruments, doing crafts, and playing games.

In Menomonie, it will be held on March 18 from 10:30 am - Noon. Registration for Dunn County 4-H members opened February 1; registration for non 4-H members opened on February 10th. Registration for both sessions will close on March 9th. The sessions are limited to 20, so sign up soon.

If you live in Dunn County and don’t want to miss out on future 4-H activities, join Dunn County 4-H or find out more by contacting Zachary Rozmiarek, Program Educator at 715-232-1636 or [email protected]. To see more 4-H activities, visit our Facebook page.

Source: news release

Free In-Person Tax Preparation Service Available

AARP Foundation Tax-Aide offers free tax preparation to anyone of any age - especially if you are 50 or older OR can’t afford paid tax preparation. In Menomonie, the ADRC (Aging & Disability Resource Center) is coordinating the program.

From now through April 7 assistance is provided by volunteers certified by the IRS.

Appointments are required and can be made for Tuesdays or Thursdays between 9:00am - 3:30pm. Call Dunn County ADRC at 715-232-4006 to schedule.

Here are a list of documents to bring.

Location is the Dunn County Government Center, US Highway 12 E, Menomonie.

Source: ADRC Facebook and AARP Website

Public Meetings Week of Feb 11-18

City of Menomonie

Mon Feb 16 City Council Meeting, 7pm

Wed Feb 18 Urban Forestry Meeting, 1pm; Airport Commission Meeting, 6pm 

Click HERE for full calendar.

School District of Menomonie

No scheduled public meetings

Click HERE for full calendar additional details

Dunn County

Wed Feb 11 Executive Committee, 3:30pm, AGENDA

Mon Feb 16 Board of Adjustment (CANCELED)

Tues Feb 17 Community Resources & Tourism, 4:30pm

Wed Feb 18 Planning, Rescue & Development Committee, 8:30am; Board of Supervisors, 7pm

Click HERE for calendar, documents, recordings & public commenting

Menomonie Events at a Glance Feb 11-18

Wed Feb 11 Philosopher’s Cafe, 7pm, Brewery Nonic

Thur Feb 12 MAKE IT Thursdays, 5pm - 8pm, Rassbach Museum

Fri Feb 13 Red Cross Blood Drive, 9am - 3pm, Menomonie Leisure Center, 1412 6th Ave E

Sat Feb 14 Kids Ice Fishing Clinic, 9am, DC Fish & Game; Annual Fish & Game Ice Fishing Contest, 11am - 3pm, DC Fish & Game; Cozy Cocoa Crawl, 10am - 5pm, Downtown; Valentine’s Collage & Cocoa, 10am - Noon, Public Library; Meet the Author - Jeremiah Bass, 11am - 1pm, Dragon Tale Books; Wolske Bay Valentine’s Skate & Hot Cocoa, 2pm - 6pm, Wolske Bay; Free Clinic Gifts of the Heart Gala, 5-8pm, UW-Stout Student Center

Tue Feb 17 City of Menomonie Mayoral Primary Election, 7am - 8pm, Polling places

Wed Feb 18 Pancake Breakfast (sponsored by Our House Sr Living) 9am - 11am, Menomonie Senior Center

MHS Extracurricular Activities

Compiled from MHS Daily Announcements

Wednesday, February 4

Boys Varsity Hockey hosted Eau Claire North and the Huskies came to play. Cooper Marincel started the scoring early on in the game and after that it was back and forth and very physical. Davin Ellis in net kept the game tight. Wren Swaenepol and Liam Wachewicz also scored to make it 3-3 putting the game into overtime. Jaxon Giertz scored in OT for the 4-3 win!

The Sabers Girls Hockey lost last night to the Hurricanes in overtime 2-1.

Congratulations to the Boys Basketball Team on their 73-53 win over Rice Lake. Leading the scorers was Jake Rue with 21 and Trevor Robert with 22.

The Girls Basketball Team lost to Medford Tuesday night 55-69. The Mustangs were led in scoring by Jordan Ohman with 17 points followed by Lauren Ohman with 11 points.

Congratulations to the Girls Gymnastics Team on their 4th highest team score of the season. In the All-Around Cassiah Casey placed 4th and Claire Mikesell placed 6th. 

Thursday, February 5

MHS FCCLA (Family, Career and Community Leaders of America). Congratulations to Darla Woodford who competed in Baking and Pastry Level 3 where she earned a gold; she will advance to State FCCLA Competition in April. Kate Schofield competed in Sports Nutrition Level 2 and earned a silver; she is a 2026 Ambassador for FCCLA.

Monday, February 9

Congratulations to the Sabers Girls Hockey Team on their non conference 6-5 win on Thursday over Superior. Their winning streak continued with another win Friday over the Coulee Region Cyclones 3-2.

The Girls Basketball Team won over Eau Claire North on Friday 66-47. The Mustangs were led in scoring by Jordan Ohman with 32 points followed by Emmi Marlett with 11 points. Ohman also added 9 rebounds and 7 assists.

 Congratulations to the Boys Basketball Team on their 56-54 win over Eau Claire North in the final seconds of the game. Leading the scorers was Trevor Robert with 26 points.

On Friday and Saturday the Boys Swim Team hosted the Big Rivers Conference Championship Meet. The team swam season best times of the year throughout the meet, with the biggest improvements coming from this year's freshman class. Brennan Anderson, Aiden Kroening, and Lucas Hahn all dropped time in the 50 Freestyle, with Hahn going on to drop over 12 seconds in his 100 Freestyle. Jack Ruegnitz completed the night dropping time in his 100 breaststroke. The Mustangs completed the Conference season in 5th place over all and will continue on to the Sectional Championship Meet in Rice Lake on Saturday.

Congratulations to the Forensics Team for their massive victory on Saturday at their hosted event, here at MHS. The team had many individuals earn awards in their events and it was a strong showing. The team will travel to Baldwin this weekend for another invitational. 1st Place: Claire Hausler - Oratory; Tehya Johnson - Expository; Owen Kelsey - Impromptu; Daphne Ogden & Nora Trotter - Play Acting; Miles Ogden - Informative; Chase Pember - Extemporaneous; Abby Shields - Special Occasion; Aidan Wolbert - Radio News Broadcasting. 2nd Place: Levi Behm - Radio News Broadcasting; Hailey Bien, Addy Rue, and Claire Hausler - Group Interpretation; Lucy Dolan & Amelia Hanson - Play Acting; Mia Martin - Public Address; Aria McNaughton - Solo Acting Humerous; Daphne Ogden - Special Occasion; Julia Prochnow - Farrago; Addy Rue - Storytelling; Abby Shields - Poetry.

Boys Varsity Hockey had a conference game on Thursday at home against New Richmond. The boys played hard and for the 1st time in over 10+ years, the Mustangs BEAT New Richmond!!! Goals by Wren Swaenepol, Jett Lenfant, Cooper Marincel, Kaden Farrah & 2 for Brekkin Cody with a final score of 6-4. Congratulations on the BIG win. On Saturday, the boys traveled to West Salem where Mustang goalie Ed Dowd got his 1st Varsity win and an assist! The team won 7-4 with goals by Sam Smith, Ryan Xu, Liam Wachewicz, 2 for Jaxon Giertz & 2 for Brekkin Cody.

Congratulations to the Varsity Dance Team on their outstanding performances in pom and hip hop this weekend. The team earned their first state placement in hip hop, receiving 4th place in D2 Hip Hop. They danced with pride, passion, and enthusiasm, leaving it all out on the floor. We are very proud of them for all the success they had this season.

Last Saturday twenty-six MHS Chapter of FBLA (Future Business Leaders of America) competed at the Region 1 Competition at St. Croix Central in Hammond. 37 schools and nearly 600 students attended, competing in testing, speaking, and performance events. The top three places move on to state on April 12-13 in Green Bay. FBLA members did an amazing job! The results are as follows: 1st Place Advanced Accounting – Ben Dahms; Introduction to Parliamentary Procedure – Ana Weber; Financial Planning – Porsha Lee, Tavarius White; 2nd Place: Advanced Accounting – Charlie Mikesell; Banking & Financial Services – Liam Wachewicz; Website Design – Ali Alnaeli, Ari Delong, Noah Winder; Healthcare Administration – Kennedy Nowlen; Introduction to FBLA – Tristynn Englund; 3rd Place Business Ethics – Jordan Ohman; Career Portfolio – Amelia Weber. Additional State Qualifier in Leadership – Ellie Zydowsky. The MHS Chapter also earned 1st Place in Community Service Involvement for the region. Congratulations to all students on their outstanding achievements and professionalism!

Tuesday, February 10

Students from MHS participated in the Job Olympics at UW-Stout with 5 other area schools. Hayden Green scored the highest in office sorting and folding and Caleb Hoffman was the overall top scorer in the event. Great job to all who competed.

FFA District Leadership Development Speaking Contest held last night at Elk Mound High School. 3rd Place - Employment Skills - Wren Swaenepoel; 2nd Place - Creed Speaking - Liam Wailey; 1st Place - Creed Speaking- Harper Reetz; 2nd place - Prepared Speaking - Kendra Schmidt; 4th Place - Prepared Speaking - Anabelle Weber; 1st Place - Discussion - Chloe Bablick; 1st and 2nd place award winners will be moving on to the Sectional FFA contest in March.

Menomonie Collegians

NDSU, Noah Feddersen Seeking Conference Crown; Baseball, Softball Seasons to Open

By Layne Pitt, MNN Contributor

FARGO, N.D.  - The North Dakota State University men's basketball team is currently in first place with five games remaining in the Summit League. Menomonie graduate Noah Feddersen is a major contributor as the Bison are looking to take their first league title since they tied for the regular season title with South Dakota State University during the 2019-20 season. North Dakota State also grabbed The Summit League tournament crown that year and advanced to the NCAA Division I tournament.

Feddersen has been a regular in the Bisons' lineup where the junior has played in all 90 games since his red-shirt freshman year in 2023-24 and has started 68 games.

The 6-foot-10 forward has been on a hot-streak as of late, scoring in double figures over the last five games, raising his points per game average more than a point-and-a-half from 7.0 points per contest on Jan. 22 to 8.4 points following Saturday's win. Feddersen scored 10 points against Denver, Jan. 22, and 11 points against Oral Roberts, Jan. 24. Feddersen matched a season-high with a 2o-point contest at South Dakota State, Jan. 31, hitting 9 of 12 shots from the floor, including two 3-pointers Feddersen tallied 13 points against Denver, Feb. 5, hitting 7 of 9 free throws, then dropped in 18 points against Omaha, Feb. 7, scoring 12 points in the second half, and hitting 7 of 10 from the floor and 4 of 4 at the line.

In a rematch with Denver January 24, Feddersen recorded 13 points, draining 7 of 9 free throws. But the Bison saw their nine-game winning streak come to end against Denver in a 78-71 decision. NDSU got back on the winning track their next time out with a 92-84 win over Omaha. North Dakota State is currently 20-6 overall, 10-1 in the Summit League.

Over the past five games, Feddersen is shooting 62.8 percent from the floor, hitting 27 of 43 shots; is shooting 87.5 per cent at the line (14-16), is averaging 14.4 points and has notched six blocked shots. Feddersen is second in the Summit League in blocked shots with 32 on the season, averaging 1.2 blocks per contest. Feddersen has led the Bison in blocked shots all three seasons. The Bison return to action Saturday, Feb. 14 at the University of North Dakota.

Baseball/Softball Opening Soon

With Major League Baseball teams opening spring training camps this week, collegiate diamond sports are not far behind. Actually, NCAA Division I softball teams opened their seasons last weekend and Division I baseball teams open play this weekend, albeit the northern teams travel to warmer climates.

This spring we will be following Menomonie High School graduates who will be playing collegiate softball or baseball.

On the softball field, freshmen Adison Hasse and Keiara Daniel will be making their collegiate debuts. Hasse will be playing at Domincan University in Forest River, Ill., and Daniel will play for Rochester (Minn.) Community and Technical College. Dominican will be opening their season Feb. 21-22 at the Bethany Lutheran College tournament in Mankato, Minn., and Rochester will get their season underway Feb. 19 -21 when they host the Early Bird Tournament at the Rochester Dome. (The UW-Stout softball team will open their season Saturday, Feb. 14 at the Dundas Dome in Dundas, Minn., taking on Macalester College and Carthage College.)

On the baseball diamond, Treysen Witt will begin his junior season at UW-Stout. Freshmen Owen Welch and AJ Zydowsky will play for the Milwaukee School of Engineering and UW-Eau Claire, respectively.

Stout is scheduled to travel to Jacksonville, Ill, for three games Feb. 21-22 against Illinois College, Coe College and the College of St. Scholastica. MSOE will travel to the West Coast where they are scheduled to play doubleheaders at Pacific University, Friday, Feb. 20 and at Willamette University, Saturday, Feb. 21. Eau Claire will open with three games at Simpson College in Indianola, Iowa, Feb. 28-March 1.

Layne Pitt retired as the longest-serving sports information director at UW-Stout 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/

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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