We have made some changes to commenting policy on the site. In the past no comments could be made on the site unless you have previously created an account with us and signed in. For at least the time being, comments can be made by people without accounts, but they will be held for moderation until an editor approves them. We hope this will promote a lively discussion in the community without allowing a free-for-all of spam and other problems.

Winter continues to unleash upon us. More stories are coming on about barn collapses, accidents, and more caused by the incredible weather we have been experiencing. Today almost all of the area schools are closed due to water covering the roads, making them impassable. I am at the moment sitting out at the farm and wondering if I will be able to get into town tomorrow for the Red Cedar Watershed Conference.

Decorating Christmas trees often evokes sentimental memories of years gone by. The business behind this holiday custom has deep roots in Wisconsin’s history. One story that stands out is an early 20th Century shipwreck that serves as a reminder of the often-dangerous conditions faced by those who have plied the Great Lakes' waters.

Lack of resources strikes again. Rather than being at tonight's Menomonie School Board Meeting, we will be videotaping the 67th District Candidate Forum in Bloomer. If you're going, stop by and say hello to the guy with the video camera.  Details of the candidate forum (Wren Keturi and Rob Summerfield candidates) are below, as well as a link to tonight's Menomonie School Board agenda.

A few other items of interest this week:

Thursday: