The staff at the Pierce County Journal wishes our readers a peaceful, prosperous and happy New Year! Thank you for your loyalty and for supporting local journalism.

Looking back over the front-page stories we’ve covered in 2025 was a treat. From new restaurants opening to high school and middle school thespians putting on spectacular shows, from crimes straight out of a Dateline episode to solar farm proposals and CAFO debates, we’ve tried to be there for it all. Newspapers are like the community’s diary: we document history as it happens, for future generations to look back upon, but also to inform citizens about what is happening all around them, whether it’s good, bad or in-between.

We look forward to seeing what 2026 will bring and telling your stories. Now sit back, grab a comfy blanket and a hot drink, and let’s take a trip down memory lane.

January

Jan. 1, 2025

Lily Thai Restaurant, a restaurant serving authentic Thai food, opened its doors in River Falls in early December, looking to diversify the food options in the city.

Dave Kerr, now the chef at Nettie’s Volta in Plum City, has had a long journey with lots of steps along the way, circling all the way back to where it all started. It was never a secret that Kerr wanted to get into cooking one day, as his grandmother always inspired him through her home cooked meals.

River Falls Athletic Trainer Tina Montpetit’s job is to help Wildcat student-athletes rehabilitate injuries from start to finish. "I'm usually the first person there when it (injury) happens," said Montpetit. "I try to comfort them and work through the process. With the season ending injuries, there's definitely a big mental aspect to it."

In the basement of Meyer Middle School, the practice home of River Falls' wrestling, reads a sign that says: "In this world a man must either be an anvil or a hammer."

Make no mistake about it, Wildcat senior 138-pound wrestler Jonas Longsdorf is a hammer. He earned his team's weekly "Hammer" award for notching four wins at the recent Dual in the Dells Tournament in Mauston, Wis., all four wins coming via pins.

Jan. 8, 2025

The Ellsworth Village Board took on sewer rates, the resignation of Trustee Tom Schutz and the approval of the Outdoor Recreation Plan during Monday’s first meeting of the new year. Due to a “shortfall” in current sewer rates, the board approved an increase of 30.6% to rates.

A Hager City woman says her husband made her try to cash a fraudulent check in Prescott, landing her in Pierce County Jail last week. Olivia Suzanne Meerkins, 34, posted a $10,000 signature bond Jan. 3 in Pierce County Circuit Court on felony misappropriate ID info – obtain money, theft – movable property (as party to a crime) and receiving or concealing stolen property (as party to a crime) charges.

ALCIVIA, an agriculture and energy company located in Cottage Grove, Wis., has continued to spread in Pierce County, constructing a rail loading grain terminal in Hager City. With an expected completion in 2025, the site is already coming together visually. When completed, the project will have 3.9 million bushels of upright storage space through grain bins and a pair of grain dryers that can dry 4,700 bushels per hour. Upon completion, ALCIVIA will be up to three shuttle loading stations on three different Class 1 railways, their website states.

As the saying goes, it's better to give than receive. Prescott's Emily Calabrese knows the drill. Calabrese is a kindergarten teacher at Malone Elementary and she's also the head track coach for Prescott High School in the spring. In the fall, she's the assistant cross-country coach. Her husband, Carl, coaches along with her. You'd think Emily and Carl would take the winter off, right? Nope. Winter season is when Carl volunteers in the concession stand outside the gym during Cardinal basketball games. Emily is inside the gym running the scoreboard for boys’ and girls’ basketball.

Jan. 15, 2025

Election Day April 1 will be here before we know it and candidates have declared their intentions to run for local offices (city council, village board and school board).

Mary Waters, a 76-year-old long-time River Falls resident who has made a positive impact in many ways in the city, was named the Citizen of the Year by the River Falls Chamber of Commerce and Tourism Bureau.

Longtime former River Falls Journal Editor Judy Wiff unexpectedly passed away on Jan. 6 at her home while sleeping in bed. She was 75 years old.

The Spring Valley School Board on Jan. 8 gave the go-ahead for an April 1 referendum to seek voter approval of $13.15 million in bonds to pay for facility improvements.

Jan. 22, 2025

Some may say Emily Kovatch-Erickson is selling blue sky and dreams. Kovatch-Erickson would disagree. She is the development and grant officer at Chippewa Valley Technical College in River Falls. It's her job to raise scholarship funds for CVTC students.

Between managing the nerves and knowing how to conduct yourself, the first job interview people face can often be a challenge. The River Falls High School’s exit interview system helps attack this challenge head on by giving seniors their first interview before a job is on the line and teaching the students interview skills.

Great River Road Theatre’s latest murder mystery, “Death by Chocolate,” is set to hit the stage Jan. 31 through Feb. 2 and Feb. 7-9 at The Old Ptacek’s Event Center in Prescott.

Retired River Falls Activities Director Rollie hall had been fighting pancreatic cancer for the past couple years. There was no social media and no "fancy schmancy" stuff. Most people didn't even know. The day of the "Staff and Teacher Appreciation Night," Rollie had received cancer treatment the entire day. The former Kodak All-American linebacker, the guy that would knock a running back out of his cleats and help him up with one hand, had to give everything his overachieving body could muster to show up that night and finish his "Grandpa Wildcat" duties for Bailee Bishop. It would be his last time in the River Falls gym.

Jan. 29, 2025

"Jeffrey the Snowman" on Bone Lake in Polk County is 49 feet tall. Instead of sticks for arms, Jeffrey has birch trees. Frosty wore a magic silk hat. Jeffrey's hat is made out of hog panels and tarps. It's 8 feet tall and the brim is 16 feet wide, complete with electric lights. Instead of "two eyes made out of coal" like Frosty, Jeffrey's eyes are made out of corrugated steel and his corn cob pipe, when completed, will really be a 55-gallon barrel. Jeffrey's scarf is 75 feet of material, all sewn in one piece. Jeffrey is built in honor of former River Falls resident Jeff Carlson, who passed away in 2016 from an accidental fall in his garage at the age of 44.

A suspicious activity complaint in Prescott culminated in a drug bust at an Ellsworth gas station and the arrest of a River Falls man.  Chad W. Kessler, 47, was ordered to pay $2,500 cash bond Jan. 23 in Pierce County Circuit Court on felony possess with intent – amphetamine/methamphetamine, felony possess firearm – convicted of a felony, felony receiving stolen property > $5,000-$10,000 or firearm, felony possess with intent – THC, felony possession of narcotic drugs, possession of cocaine/coca and possess drug paraphernalia charges, all with the enhanced repeater modifier.

Michael Merritt, a physical education teacher in the Plum City School District, got his pilot’s license to open the year and put it to good use, taking a pair of teachers and a third-grade student on a flight over Plum City, Elmwood and more of western Wisconsin’s natural beauty.

Prescott’s pom and jazz dance Regional championships and Ellsworth’s hip hop Regional championship were not the only dance success stories Saturday at DC Everest, as EPC and Spring Valley are also headed to State.

February

Feb. 5, 2025

Cancer survivors Mei Mei Abdouch and Sarah Jarocki will be featured survivor speaker sat the Relay For Life in River Falls on Friday, April 11. Relay teams are forming now. 

A River Falls woman is facing felony charges after allegedly stalking a former co-worker for over a year via hundreds of texts, emails and fake social media accounts. Rebecca Ann Hedeen, 32, was ordered to pay $2,500 cash bond in St. Croix County Circuit Court Jan. 23 on felony stalking, felony misappropriate ID info – harm reputation, computer message – threaten obscenity, sending obscene/sexually explicit electronic messages and harassment charges.

The approximately 120-year-old Martell Schoolhouse building has established itself as one of Pierce County’s most recognizable buildings. Its future, though, is not as clear, as the Town of Martell’s board is evaluating options for what to do with it.

River Falls Wildcat Lincoln Tremain, the kid whose heart pumps blue and gold blood and loves basketball, said he decided to suit up for one reason: "I love Coach Campbell and Coach Turpin and all my coaches. I love our team. They've done so much for me, so I should give everything back to them."

Feb. 12, 2025

A student-run coffee roasting operation, a new greenhouse structure and major changes to business and technical education courses were all part of a presentation from four of the Ellsworth High School academic departments, showcasing the things expected to come after the referendum construction is complete.

Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers visited the Peterson Dairy Farm on the south end of River Falls this past Thursday to announce additional state grant funding to help farmers control soil erosion, with the end goal of cleaner water. The current state-aid to help Wisconsin farmers sustain and improve their soil in the previous budget cycle was $1.5 million. The 2025-27 budget cycle for the farmer-led research soil conservation practices will be $2.5 million statewide, a 67-percent increase.

Get ready to dive under the sea with Ellsworth Middle School’s rendition of “Little Mermaid Jr.,” hitting the stage Feb. 20-23, 2025.

When Bethlehem Lutheran Church closed its doors for the last time in September 2023, the congregation didn’t know what would become of the little country church. But as the saying goes, God has a plan.

Enter Sarah and Christopher Ball of Red Wing, Minn. Sarah Ball has always dreamed of owning a little white church in the country.

Feb. 19, 2025

The Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce brought the business community together for an unforgettable evening at its highly anticipated 2025 Annual Awards Banquet, The Chamber Royale. This casino-themed celebration honored the outstanding businesses, organizations, and individuals who make Ellsworth a vibrant place to live, work, and visit.

The Pierce County Law Enforcement Committee on Feb. 11 approved temporary extra pay for 911 dispatchers to address a staffing shortage that has resulted in dispatchers working long hours and creating a situation that county Emergency Director Christine McPherson said is “not sustainable.”

Have you ever thought it might be fun to enter something in the Pierce County Fair, but were unsure where to start? Or maybe your child is involved in FFA or 4-H but wants to try a new project area. Where do you begin? The first ever Pierce County “Prepare for the Fair” event will help answer those questions and more.

Former River Falls High School student Tessa Davis is studying rehabilitation psychology at UW-Madison. Her internship the past two summers working with autistic students has taught her to change the environment to fit the needs of the individual rather than the adverse. This process, Davis has found, maximizes communication and learning. 

Feb. 26, 2025

The Ellsworth Plan Commission had a packed agenda Feb. 19, hearing the Judicial Center addition proposal, a new law firm building plan, more items on the C&E Wurzer apartment development at the old junior high, a housing development proposal and more.

Many American Legions have faced declining enrollment across the nation. Prescott’s (American Legion Post 61) on the other hand is thriving after the community helped save the building years ago.

Their friendship started out thanks to a barn. Now, a local River Falls businesswoman and farmer team up during holidays to bring a spark of joy to senior living facilities. Throw in the River Falls FFA and you have a recipe for rewarding community service.

Over Valentine’s Day, Tiffany Dux of Blooms for Happiness (a flower and gift shop on River Falls’ north end) and other local businesses created “love boxes” to be distributed to River Falls seniors.

Most people driving up and down the main drag in Plum City feel as safe as the huge fish swimming in the never-frozen spring-fed pond in the middle of town.

It's also safe to say Pillar Bank in Plum City has the coolest safe with one of the coolest vault stories in the state of Wisconsin. If you don't believe me, just ask 88-year-old retired Plum City banker Harriet Rothe. It's safe to say she'll tell the story.

March

March 5, 2025

The Ellsworth Community School District will welcome Lonnie Feuerhelm, Julie Graber, Jack Hines, Dr. Eugene Jonas, Dr. Frederick Klaas, Tasha Schuh and Kirby Symes to inclusion in the newly formed Hall of Fame. These individuals represent a wide array of community supporters, pillars of the ECSD and distinguished alumni.

After a process spanning over a year, Ridge Breeze Dairy in the Town of Salem saw the approval of its permit for expansion from a 1,700-cow dairy farm to 6,500. The Nutrient Management Plan for the project was submitted back in January 2024, and after a lengthy series of hearings and meetings, the Wisconsin DNR announced Feb. 21 that the permit was approved.

“My goal isn’t just to teach acting and theatre—it’s to help kids discover their creativity, their ability to express themselves, and their place in a supportive community. I want families to feel that theatre is a welcoming, accessible space for everyone, no matter their background or experience level. I want WonderWorks Theatre to be a place where every child—whether they dream of the spotlight or just want to explore their creativity—feels safe, seen, and celebrated.” This is the mission and inspiration for former public school teacher Ashley Steiner, who has embarked on a new business journey by opening WonderWorks Theatre in River Falls.

The Wildcats boys hockey team finished the season 14-13, the first season above .500 they've had since the 2010-11 season. The fourth-place Big Rivers Conference finish is also the best in the last 14 years. The 8-6 BRC record is the second best in program history.

March 12, 2025

With bright blue skies, a blazing sun and temperatures in the 60s, Ellsworth Community School District officials, staff, and community members gathered for a groundbreaking ceremony Monday, March 10 celebrating the new Ellsworth High School addition and Ellsworth Middle School renovation.

The Flood Run is seeing changes with hopes of returning the ridership to the numbers it was prior to the trademark. The spring Flood Run is April 25-27 this year, where it previously was a one-day run.

If there is one thing River Falls is known for, besides the Kinnickinnic River, it’s a supportive and welcoming business community. This month, local businesses in the City on the Kinni are going all out for Women’s History Month.

River Falls took seventh of 10 teams at the D2 State meet in Wisconsin Rapids over the weekend, capping off another memorable season.

March 19, 2025

ALCIVIA’s long-awaited 40-acre grain rail loading terminal with 3.9 million bushels of storage space was unveiled to the area’s farmers March 12, showcasing an opportunity for both sides of the exchange.

The Gilman Town Board finds themselves in the same situation as many of western Wisconsin’s townships, weighing the pros and cons of an operations ordinance to restrict Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) during a March 12 meeting.

Journalism is alive and well in the St. Croix Bluffs neighborhood of Prescott, where 11-year-old Poppy Knox has founded her own newspaper. Called “Neighborhood News, The Best Newspaper Ever,” Knox’s newspaper details the adventures she has with her brothers, Ethan (7) and Gabe (8), parents Pat and Jaime, four cats (Spice, Batgirl, Tigger, Peaches) and bunny (Clover).

UW-River Falls will host UW-Stevens Point at 1 p.m. Saturday, March 29 for a doubleheader in the first home Falcon baseball game in over two decades.

March 26, 2025

Get ready to be transported to the magical world of Narnia in Ellsworth High School’s Spring production, “The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe.” Director and middle school teacher Kimberley Catron wanted to feature something different than the plays they’ve done in the past, something that was good for all ages.

A family physician living in the El Paso countryside had a long journey to get here but has learned a lot through his research in Kenya, time as a Duke student-athlete and establishing a family.

“Sweeney Todd: The Demon Barber of Fleet Street” is set to take the Prescott High School stage March 28-30, bringing a genre of musical not often shown by high school students.

River Falls High School 2019 grad Macey Kilty recently won the National Collegiate Women's Wrestling Championship (NCWWC) as a member of the University of Iowa and you may have never even heard of her.

April

April 2, 2025

Phyllis Beastrom’s 42 years as Town of Ellsworth clerk are coming to an end, as she is set to retire in April. Beastrom has seen a lot of changes in local government over four decades of public service and has never backed down.

The UW-River Falls Falcon Women’s Hockey team defeated Amherst College to win its second NCAA DIII championship title in as many years last weekend. Hunt Arena was home to a sold-out crowd as the Falcons made history yet again.

Amherst College, Middlebury College, and Augsburg University were in River Falls for the NCAA Division III Women's National Hockey Tournament. UW-River Falls won the bid to host last fall in September and, luck of the draw, the Falcons were the fourth seed in the tournament.

Whoever said a dog is (wo)man’s best friend couldn’t have been more right. They provide comfort, unconditional love, and joy. Just ask Kaydee Zenner, the proud owner of Macy the Pomeranian, who will turn 20 years old on April 16.

April 9, 2025

UW-River Falls' track and field team captain Cailyn Kuechle has youthful speed. Kuechle is the all-time Falcon record holder in the indoor 600-meter race, but the race with Father Time hasn't even entered her head yet. Kuechele and about 20 of her UWRF track teammates were easy to distinguish at The Sycamore senior living facility with their easy strides, red and black T-shirts, and melanin-rich hair color. The Sycamore’s residents, most of which were about 60 to 70 years older than their volunteer guests, were donning bird sweaters, flannels, and walkers. One group grew up with Taylor Swift and Justin Bieber, the other group was Frank Sinatra and Elvis. BINGO was their common denominator.

Wood’s Maple Orchard is operated by a multi-generation syrup family, and they have worked hard to become an award-winning producer when it comes to both maple syrup and maple sugar.

Even though she resigned from the Spring Valley village president role in January before her term was complete, voters re-elected Theresa Koch to the position April 1 over write-in candidate and President Pro Tem Brad Jorgenson, who stepped into the role after Koch’s resignation.

The Prescott technical education department is welcoming the public to the high school at 6 p.m. April 16 for an open house to tour and learn about R5 Manufacturing, a student-run business at the school.

April 16, 2025

Nate and Jes Kochendorfer’s D-BAT business opened in River Falls just over two weeks ago in the Whitetail Business Park (679 Whitetail Blvd). It's one of 180 D-BAT franchises around the country.

About 100 area residents had the Hartland Town Hall bursting at the seams to oppose the proposed Isabelle Creek Solar Project during the April 8 monthly town meeting.

A stolen vehicle, a pursuit and a crash landed one man in the hospital and in court with felony charges. Dean Edward Sunderland, 32, New Richmond, was ordered to pay $1,000 cash bond April 7 in Pierce County Circuit Court on felony second-degree recklessly endangering safety (repeater), felony take and drive vehicle without consent (repeater), felony vehicle operator flee/elude officer (repeater), theft – movable property (repeater) and misdemeanor bail jumping (repeater) charges.

"Prescott is definitely a softball town," said senior first baseman Rory Zuehlsdorf. "We wouldn't have any of this without the people in our town."

April 23, 2025

River Falls Mayor Dan Toland, who just completed his 13th year as mayor, ran unopposed, once again, and is now beginning his 14th year, a Brett Favre-like streak in America's Dairyland.

When Ellsworth’s Donna Constant sees a need in the community, there’s nothing that can stop her from addressing it. Just ask her good friend and fellow Heart member Cindy Baird.

River Falls senior Gage Brunkhorst has always had a love for cooking and baking, eventually turning that spark into his own baking business.

Earth Fest 2025 may be a one-day event, but the goal is for the impact of the day to last significantly longer. One way is through the Seasonal Spotlight initiative, pairing local food service stops with local farms to make dishes for the public.

April 30, 2025

Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce members heard a “State of the Village” update from Village President Becky Beissel and Administrator/Clerk-Treasurer Brad Roy at the April 24 member meeting.

Beloved River Falls pharmacist Leah Gavin, owner of Freeman Drug, died Tuesday, April 22, 2025, at Regions Hospital in St. Paul surrounded by family as a result of injuries sustained after a fall at home.

On April 20, Easter Sunday, Mackenze, 46, John, 16, and Mabel Rohl, 19, were struck by another vehicle at the intersection of Highway 10 and County Road QQ. John and the four passengers of the other vehicle suffered no injuries in the crash, but Mackenze suffered a broken nose and Mabel was airlifted to Regions Hospital after being ejected from the car.

The lens Julie Ryan looks through at Fire Hall Field is through the eyes of a coach's wife. Jeff Ryan is now in his 27th year as Prescott Head Baseball Coach. He and Julie have been together for 25 of those years.

May

May 7, 2025

According to River Falls Community Food Pantry Executive Director Candice Anderson, funding cuts that will affect the pantry’s stock didn’t really come out of nowhere, but they kind of came out of nowhere.

The Ellsworth and River Falls districts are each taking on significant construction over the summer after passing referendums in 2024. Both projects are already moving along as the districts intend to get the bulk of the work done while students are away from school.

The Spring Valley School Board heard presentations on timelines for referendum projects and the referendum interest and financing outlook after announcing senior award winners April 30.

Despite the struggles she and her family have faced, Maria Reyes has faith. Faith in the Lord’s protection, faith in the community, faith that good will prevail, faith in herself, faith in the future. But it hasn’t been easy. Reyes opened Maria’s Tienda y Boutique Mexicana at 200 E. Elm St. in River Falls in May 2024. With the support of her husband, Victor Reyes Alvarado, she took a leap of faith and dove into her dream of owning her own store, which was successful the first few months. However, after one year, Reyes has made the gut-wrenching decision to close.

May 14, 2025

An AES proposal to bring a 75 MWac solar facility that would generate enough power to fuel about 18,000 Wisconsin homes annually to the Town of Hartland has faced community questioning, but AES aims to leave no question unanswered.

The Ellsworth Community School District held its annual recognition dinner May 7 at The Ridgetop, celebrating retiring staff and staff that reached years of service milestones.

The River Falls Public Library will host a public event at 6 p.m. May 19 to celebrate its history and introduce the community to its “Renew & Inspire” Capital Campaign. One of the highlights of the evening will be a presentation by local historian Jayne Hoffman of her recent book, “River Falls Public Library: The Legacy of its Founding Mothers.”

May 21, 2025

At 9:30 a.m. on Memorial Day, the Spring Valley American Legion Post and Auxiliary will hold a Memorial Day remembrance service and a dedication ceremony for the new stone war memorial monument on Highway 29 near Park Drive.

Earth Fest brought just about every type of booth and project one could imagine to the community back in April, and some of the impact will span years into the future. Glass artist Erin Ward was a part of that lasting impact, working with local people to create a mosaic art piece for a garbage can at Ostness Park in River Falls.

Taste of Tuscany, the Ellsworth Community School District Foundation’s major fundraising event, is set for a 13th year of food, fun, auctions, raffles, music and wine. The event is May 30 from 4:30-8 p.m. at Vino in the Valley.

River Falls Wildcat Assistant Baseball Coach Mark Vrieze has been throwing out random "Karate Kid" quotes for the last 11 years on the baseball diamond. "When you have to lighten the mood a little bit, I might pull some Miyagi out," said Vrieze.

May 28, 2025

River Falls Dunkin Donuts' owner Sahil Taneja has one simple rule he follows for business and life: "If you take care of people, then they will take care of you. Life is a circle."

For 22-year-old River Falls native Elise Foley, the nature of her three-and-a-half-year health struggle may have seemed like three decades, but it has come full circle. The journey started with a future in volleyball and aeronautical engineering at Hamline University, but the path led Foley to an extended linguistic stay in Russia, authoring three books, and opening up her own craniosacral therapy clinic.

In the week of April 28, four adjacent counties saw fatal traffic accidents in the span of four days. Pierce, St. Croix and Polk counties, along with Washington County, Minn., each had fatal crashes between Tuesday, April 29 and Friday May 2. 

Wieser Concrete, a precast concrete manufacturer, celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2025, spanning three generations, tons of technology advancements and dozens of site additions. Current CEO Andy Wieser’s father, Joseph H. Wieser, started operations in the very same Maiden Rock location in 1965.

June

June 4, 2025

Area residents gathered in Bay City to hear from GrassRoots Organizing Western Wisconsin (GROWW) leaders on the contested Ridge Breeze Dairy expansion permit’s status and the latest news with the previously pondered $18 million public bond to fund it.

A 74-year-old Ellsworth man has died from injuries sustained May 29 when he was struck by a vehicle on Ellsworth’s Main Street. According to Ellsworth Police Chief Eric Ladwig, Kenneth L. Wilson died from his injuries after being transported by ambulance to Regions Hospital in St. Paul.

Ellsworth High School Principal Oran Nehls abruptly retired without prior notice on Friday, May 30, 2025, effective that day.

Last Thursday began with a bizarre stone-throwing vandalistic rampage in the early morning hours on Main Street in River Falls. The day ended with an inspiring symbolic hug from the River Falls’ community in the form of donated clean-up time and food. The sign outside St. Bridget Parish School read, "Jesus, I Trust in You!" Behind the sign, over a dozen boarded up shattered windows on three sides of St. Bridget School could be seen. 

June 11, 2025

Following the abrupt retirement of Ellsworth High School Principal Oran Nehls on May 30, community member Sean Hall spoke to the school board, pleading for answers.

Ellsworth senior Maleah Petersen was the WIAA Division 2 State Champion in the girls' discus this past Friday in La Crosse.

Prescott senior Ethan West reached the podium in three events, including the anchor leg of the Cardinals' WIAA State Champion boys' 4x100 relay team that set a new state record.

As part of the Kinni Corridor Project, the City of River Falls welcomed members of the public June 4 to hear from two organizations that are playing a large role in the project being the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the National Park Service.

June 18, 2025

It was fitting that the Ellsworth Plan Commission voted June 16 to recommend a site plan and certified survey map to the village board for a new Kwik Trip on “Kwik Trip Day.”

Gov. Tony Evers declared June 16, 2025 as “Kwik Trip Day” in Wisconsin to celebrate the 60^th anniversary of the iconic Wisconsin-based franchise.

Peer Perspective is teaming up with Total Excavating for a golf tournament fundraiser that would help bring a sober house for women and children to River Falls.

The River Falls School District property at 595 Dry Run Road was a hive of activity Friday, May 30 during one of several Elementary Ag Days hosted by the River Falls FFA.

River Falls FFA Alumni members were also on hand to offer guidance, but for the most part, spent time observing as the FFA students handled things quite capably.

Prescott boys golf had its program-defining season come to an end Tuesday after closing out the State Tournament in seventh of eight teams. Senior Tyler Reiter capped his tremendous high school career off with a fifth-place finish individually.

June 25, 2025

JM Watkins Meats has put the finishing touches on its exponentially larger new facility at the corner of Highway 10 and County Road CC. They opened their doors to the public June 16 and filled the store to the brim with people during the June 21 grand opening celebration.

Spring Valley Elementary is one of 98 schools statewide to earn Wisconsin Schools of Recognition honors for the 2023-24 school year from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.

The Sycamore, a River Falls senior living community, unveiled its Veterans Wall of Honor, showcasing residents’ years of service in the military.

Prescott Head Baseball Coach Jeff Ryan said earlier this season during a post-game interview, "The greatest gift we can give anybody is our time." Ryan announced his plans to retire this past Thursday night at the Cardinals' year-end banquet.

July 2, 2025

“The East End is one of the oldest commercial areas in Ellsworth, and while it has served the community well for decades, it’s clear the area is overdue for reinvestment,” Village President Becky Beissel stated. “Redevelopment allows us to modernize infrastructure, improve the appearance and function of the corridor, and attract new businesses and housing opportunities. It’s about honoring the area’s history while preparing it for future success. A stronger East End benefits the entire community—economically, visually, and socially.”

With 102 years of hard work under their belts at the Ellsworth Cooperative Creamery, Joe Hines is now enjoying retirement and his brother Dean Hines is winding down his career.

What appeared to be a routine traffic stop in Trenton turned into a significant drug bust last week. Krystal Marie Larson, 42, Cannon Falls, Minn., was ordered to pay $2,500 cash bond June 24 in Pierce County Circuit Court on felony possess with intent – amphetamine/methamphetamine, felony possess with intent – heroin, felony possession of narcotic drugs, possess amphetamine/LSD/psilocin and possess drug paraphernalia charges.

July 9, 2025

UW-River Falls student Hailey James opened up for country mega-star Riley Green at Hoofbeat Festival in Cadott, Wis., at the end of June. James also sang a duet with Green.

Downtown River Falls will transform into a vibrant landscape as River Falls Days 2025 brings four days of celebration, community connection, and unforgettable entertainment July 10-13 with the theme “Kinni in Bloom.”

Approximately 2-3% of children ages 3-17 in the United States do not have a bed, according to non-profit Sleep in Heavenly Peace, and the organization is doing everything in its power to change that. They have built and delivered 500,000 beds nationwide and recently added a St. Croix County Chapter to fill a void in the area.

Celebrating 150 years since its original services at a schoolhouse in 1875 where the Trenton Town Hall now stands, Svea Lutheran Church saw people from around the nation return to Hager City for the June 22 service.

July 16, 2025

The Ellsworth Community Development Authority received blighted property evaluations during a July 14 meeting, the second of three regarding the East End Redevelopment Plan.

A Durand woman accused of cutting off a hospice patient’s foot without his permission pleaded no contest to negligently abusing a patient and will receive no jail time. The patient’s family believes justice has not been served. Mary K. Brown, 40, Durand, was convicted of negligently abuse patients – no harm (elder victim) and fined $443 in Pierce County Circuit Court on July 2. She must also agree with any discipline imposed on her nursing license by the Wisconsin State Board of Nursing. According to the Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services website, she is not eligible to practice nursing.

Residents spoke both in favor and against a lease to move the Grow to Share garden program from Hoffman Park to DeSanctis Park. Ultimately, the board approved the new lease without discussion.

July 23, 2025

A former Pierce County Sheriff’s Office investigator’s ability to return to his job is currently being assessed after criminal charges against him have been amended in what appears to be a complicated situation.

Beth Croes is always up for an adventure. Whether that’s storm chasing, training as a storm spotter or opening a coffee/food truck business, you can be sure that she’ll throw herself into it 100%.

The Pierce County community has had to go through the pain of losing a farmer to suicide, as Brian Webster of the Bay City area died by suicide in August 2023. After his death, the Webster family wanted to make an impact on farmers’ mental health, establishing a branch of the Farmer Angel Network in western Wisconsin.

UFO Days has become more than a hometown celebration with a quirky theme: It draws visitors and speakers from all over the country fascinated with aliens, the paranormal and things unseen.

July 30, 2025

A quiet afternoon on the water turned chaotic Saturday when a boat exploded at the fuel dock at Miss-Croix Yacht Harbor in Prescott, sending all 11 people on board into the Mississippi River and injuring several.

For the last 90 years, Pine Coulee Farm, which includes the unique coulee gorge, has been in the care of the Christiansen family. The property was purchased in 1935 so that Milly Christiansen could begin a small farming operation and have a place to raise horses. She loved riding her horses in the coulee area.

People helping people; that's exactly what the River Falls High School Sunshine Fund was doing last week at their ninth annual golf tournament fundraiser at Kilkarney Hills in River Falls.

River Falls-native and current Washington Nationals center fielder Alex Call has always had a plan. If his plan takes an unexpected detour, he has a plan for that, too. Call was in town this past weekend holding the Alex Call Homegrown Baseball Clinic on Friday morning at First National Bank of River Falls Field.

August

Aug. 6, 2025

Two-foot-tall banks up against the buildings, difficulty seeing out of your windshield and roads as slippery as an oil spill. You would think a snowstorm came in the middle of July, but it was a massive mayfly emergence in Bay City.

Tyler Mason's job title with the City of River Falls is Communications Coordinator. Communicating is what Mason has been doing for the last year in his new gig. His job description is being the eyes and ears for the River Falls community.

For Hager City hay farmer Harlin Kinneman, everything about the Pierce County Fair was "perfeck," as he said it. Everything with one single exception. "The only thing that bummed my dad out about the fair was when it was over," said his daughter, Patti Kinneman Bovee. "He would say it every year, 'Well, it's done this year, but already I can't wait until next year."

Aug. 13, 2025

El Paso Days is always sure to bring great events, but the Grand Parade followed by the greased pig contest Sunday is always a sight to see. This year, Vino in the Valley will be honored as the parade grand marshal Aug. 17.

With El Paso Days coming up, 2025 Honorary Citizen Janet Howe reflected on a lifetime of great memories from her time in the area. Howe comes from the Daniels family, which has been in the El Paso community for around 100 years.

The Spring Valley Chamber of Commerce was left without a board in June when the entire board resigned, accusing village staff and the village board of being anti-business, a position village leadership vehemently denies. As the drama dies down, the chamber is hoping to regroup and elect interim leadership.

Wisconsin U.S. Rep. Derrick Van Orden visited Ellsworth Thursday, speaking at an Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce meeting, touring the school district referendum construction and attending the Pierce County Fair.

Aug. 20, 2025

After Board Member Mark Stoesz resigned from the board due to moving out of the district, the board needed to elect a new member. During a special meeting Aug. 13, the board interviewed four candidates to fill the vacancy, selecting Jay Acker after several rounds of contested voting.

Dale Johnson, 67, Glenwood City, was operating a 2022 Indian Challenger eastbound on 650^th Avenue when he lost control and entered the ditch. The Pierce County Medical Examiner’s Office pronounced him dead at the scene.

A new senior housing development could soon take shape in Prescott following the city council’s approval of a concept plan for a 58-unit assisted living facility at 445 Court St. N.

The WBA State Finals saw yet another year with a Pierce County champion, with the River Falls Fighting Fish winning a trio of games in Hayward over the weekend, including two nailbiters.

Aug. 27, 2025

The Prescott School District’s new superintendent, Jim Reif, is looking to bring his decades of education experience to the city, putting an emphasis on students and the classroom.

After a long month of repairs, Prescott American Legion Post 61 expects to be fully up and running for Prescott DAZE festivities. On July 18, the Legion announced over Facebook that its post building, located at 710 Pearl St., closed a few weeks prior because rainfall caused foundation issues.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WISDOT) has awarded the City of Prescott a $194,106 Transportation Alternatives Planning (TAP) grant to support improvements to pedestrian and bike crossings along Highway 10.

Three of the valley’s teams duked it out against the area’s best in the Battle for the Paddle, a traveling event hosted at the Ellsworth Rod & Gun Club this year.

September

Sept. 3, 2025

A warrant has been issued for the arrest of a River Falls man who missed a court appearance related to felony theft charges. Pierce County Circuit Court Judge Elizabeth Rohl issued the warrant after Patrick Wolf Davila, 34, failed to show up for an Aug. 25 initial appearance on felony take and drive vehicle without consent, felony theft – movable property – special facts and felony bail jumping.

Prescott Daze is back for another year with another exciting slate, combining the classic favorites with a handful of new events Sept. 4-7.

River Falls girls golf is on a roll to start the year, winning the Viking Invitational and making team history. In conference play, the team is already cementing a spot in the upper echelon.

River Falls took home the Menomonie Sprawl title in a tournament with 40 local teams this past weekend. It was the sixth time in eight years that the Wildcats took home the title, toppling three consecutive Big Rivers Conference teams in the process to move to 11-0 on the year.

Sept. 10, 2025

A proposed agreement with MSA to develop an East End Park Master Plan was tabled to the October agenda during the Sept. 8 Ellsworth Village Board meeting.

A local woman is accused of hurting a senior citizen who attempted to prevent her from driving an ATV drunk in the town of Martell. Mikayla Kayelyn Miller, 29, Goodhue, Minn., posted a $5,000 signature bond Aug. 28 on felony battery to an elder person – intend bodily harm, disorderly conduct and resisting or obstructing an officer charges in Pierce County Circuit Court.

The Pierce County Economic Development Corporation released results from the 2025 Municipal Survey, where community leaders were tasked with sharing their “vision for economic growth.”

The Renaissance Charter Academy has been a part of River Falls for about 20 years. They broke ground for a new building in 2022 and Principal Peggy Webb is entering her second year of leading the way, with things looking nothing but up for the school.

Sept. 17, 2025

A handful of Pierce County’s townships have looked into drafting ordinances to add more plans, requirements and regulations for Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) to enter their township. After hearing from the public during a Sept. 9 gathering, the Isabelle Town Board unanimously approved an ordinance Monday, Sept. 15.

An Ellsworth family received a terrifying and unwelcome surprise in the middle of the night when a drunk driver crashed a vehicle into their house early Sunday morning. According to Nick and Melissa Frion, who live with their two children in the 400 block of West Overlook Drive in Ellsworth, they were awoken at 2:21 a.m. Sunday, Sept. 14 when a vehicle crashed through the wall into their spare bedroom.

The remains of a local man who went missing during a kayaking trip last year in Wyoming have been found. A Wisconsin nonprofit organization specializing in recovering drowning victims located Wes Dopkins, formerly of Prescott, in 420 feet of water on Sept. 9, nearly 14 months after he disappeared.

Sept. 24, 2025

A new fall attraction is set to open for business on Friday, Sept. 26 along the Great River Road on a farm that’s been in the Langer family for four generations. Kenny Langer Jr., along with his dad and son, have been working hard to get the Big River Corn Maze, located at N4379 State Road 35 at the JF Langer Family Farm, ready for families to enjoy.

The Ellsworth Chamber of Commerce is hoping to ignite more bold conversations and new ideas about the village’s future with a new Design Ellsworth 2.0 speaker series. They’re bringing in nationally recognized voices to help the village look at challenges and opportunities facing rural communities like Ellsworth, and to inspire residents, businesses, and leaders to think big about what’s next for Ellsworth.

After a vote from residents as well as an approval from the school board, the Spring Valley School District got the go ahead to purchase 34.3 acres of land to construct a new transportation building at the Sept. 17 meeting.

Eighth grader Max Beck has led by example during his years in school, and he is standing tall again as he battles Ewing’s sarcoma, a rare type of cancer found in about 200 Americans a year.

October

Oct. 1, 2025

The Ellsworth High and Middle Schools opened their doors Sept. 24, unveiling the completed referendum projects to the public during a ribbon cutting. It has been a long process since the public approved a $25 million facilities referendum in April 2024, but they had their chance to see what came out of the investment.

A resolution was reached with Ellsworth Community School District teacher Krista Lesiecki after fallout from a social media post about the assassination of conservative activist Charlie Kirk on Sept. 10.

The River Falls City Council unanimously awarded BCI Construction a contract for $9,010,069 of the now projected $10,513,998 Fire Station Project during the Sept. 23 meeting.

With a smile that lights up the room and a laugh that everyone who knows him can recognize, River Falls High School alum Mustafa Adam is loved by seemingly everyone in the community. That’s why a group of his friends set up the StafaStrong 5K to support him in his journey to tackle cancer once again.

Oct. 8, 2025

The Ellsworth Village Board approved an item to direct the village to enter conversations with the Department of Natural Resources on a grant to purchase land connected to Summit Park.

A strong advocate for Pierce County youth lost her battle with kidney cancer in July and a benefit will be held in her memory to help her family with medical bills. The Joy Lynn George Family Benefit will be held Saturday, Oct. 11 at the Ellsworth Country Club (W6920 Golf Course Lane).

Prescott School Resource Officer (SRO) Beau Jacobson is a face everyone at Prescott High School has come to know. His desk sits right inside of the main entrance, and students often stop by for a piece of candy or simply to talk.

Ellsworth girls tennis finished fourth in the eight-team Middle Border Conference Tournament to finish fourth in the overall conference standings on the year, a top half placement.

Oct. 15, 2025

The Ellsworth Community School District board heard and approved the final community survey for a potential four-year operating referendum that would be voted on in April.

A belligerent wedding guest apparently drank too much last weekend and punched at least two people in the face, including a woman and a sheriff’s deputy.

Matthew David Helke, 27, Rosemount, Minn., was ordered to pay $500 cash bond Oct. 13 in Pierce County Circuit Court on two felony battery to certain individuals involved in the court or legal system and single counts of battery, resisting or obstructing an officer and disorderly conduct.

Margaret Rose Afternoon Tea opened at 375 W. Kinne St. (the big yellow house next to the Pierce County Courthouse) in Ellsworth on Sept. 19. They serve a three-course traditional English tea, with delectable goodies such as ham salad on Brioche buns, Coronation Chicken on St. Croix Bread, white chocolate lavender scones with clotted cream and jam, petit fours and more.

A 255-unit multi-family development and a 93-lot subdivision were both proposed to the River Falls Plan Commission during the Oct. 7 meeting to the disapproval of many attending residents. Neither proposal received a recommendation from the Plan Commission for City Council approval after presentations and a public hearing.

Oct. 22, 2025

The countdown is on for a new fall tradition: Pasture Palooza at Eagle Eye Farm, an all-day celebration of community, agriculture, and family fun, set for 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25.

In an era of technology, attention spans have continued to fade and media is consumed more and more through devices. Phil Pfuehler, a retired River Falls Journal editor and long-time area resident, dives into that theme in his first novel, “The Breathing Pages.”

River Falls School District and school/community forest representatives gathered a crowd at the RFSD forest to unveil a pavilion Oct. 15.

Ellsworth senior Lexi Marks and Prescott junior Layla Salay closed out the girls golf season, each finishing in the top half of their respective divisions at the State Championship last week at University Ridge in Madison.

Oct. 29, 2025

Multiple officers executed a search warrant last week on a River Falls home belonging to a man suspected in multiple thefts in his neighborhood. Neighbors were told to shelter in place while the man was apprehended. Kyle William Cook, 36, River Falls, was ordered to pay $2,000 cash bond Oct. 23 in Pierce County Circuit Court on felony burglary – building or dwelling, felony theft – movable property – special facts, and three misdemeanor theft – movable property charges.

Upon hearing public comment from those in favor and against ordinances that add barriers to Concentrated Animal Feeding Operations (CAFOs) entering communities through adding planning requirements, the Pierce County Groundwater Advisory Committee is expected to continue conversations on the topic in the coming months.

What the people at home see from the River Falls Marching Band is plenty of State Championships, including the recent clean sweep of titles at State, performances in massive settings including the home of the Indianapolis Colts and perfect shows every time they perform throughout the area. What they do not see is the nonstop work the group puts in to get to and stay at the top.

The Ellsworth High School Drama Department will bring the magical classic “Charlie & the Chocolate Factory” to life with eight shows in November. Tickets are already selling fast, so don’t miss out on your chance to get your own “Golden Ticket.”

November

Nov. 5, 2025

A pair of housing developments has been the talk of the city in River Falls, as the two proposals were grouped with multiple variances to city code. A multi-family Mann Valley proposal was approved, with a single and twin home proposal on Powell Avenue tabled for changes during the Oct. 28 meeting.

Get ready to put on your ogre ears and find your place in the swamp as Prescott Middle School puts on “Shrek Jr.,” set to debut Friday, Nov. 14.

Pierce County families are among the nearly 42 million Americans preparing for their food stamp benefits to run dry in November because of an ongoing government shutdown. The US Department of Agriculture announced in mid-October that it doesn’t have the funding to provide November’s benefits during the government shutdown.

Ellsworth’s boys cross country team competed at State in Wisconsin Rapids on Saturday, Nov. 1. While they finished 16th of 16 as a team in Division 2, the team worked around an injury and gained some vital experience as all but one runner can return to the team next year. Regardless, it was a special season for the team that qualified for State for the first time since 1992.

Nov. 12, 2025

With the lengthy government shutdown leading to Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits being delayed, Colten Sothman, the owner of Down to Earth Tree Service, was not going to let people go hungry.

A former Freeman Drug employee is facing a felony embezzling charge for allegedly stealing from the store, according to reports filed in Pierce County Circuit Court last week. Paige Marie Marlatt, also known as Paige Freund, 33, Ellsworth, posted a $10,000 signature bond Nov. 3 on a felony theft – business setting > $5,000-$10,000 charge.

Ray LeMay, an 11-year-old known throughout the River Falls community for his egg stand, is fighting diabetic ketoacidosis with the help of many supporters backing him.

The Meyer Middle School Penny War has become a staple. Running a five-year average of $8,000 in donations to the River Falls Community Food Pantry and totaling 16,000 pounds of food donations over its lifespan, it has been nothing but a success.

This October brought the first documented pair of high school teammates to earn World Series rings during the same season. It was not some private school in California, a baseball academy in Florida or one of the nation’s largest schools in one of its largest cities. The members of the duo were Alex Call and JP Feyereisen from right at home in River Falls.

Nov. 19, 2025

Two St. Paul men were arrested in River Falls after a witness woke up to sawing noises and witnessed his neighbor’s catalytic converter being stolen last week.

Pierce County administration and department heads were able to trim $1.4 million from the proposed 2026 budget, which the county board approved at its Nov. 12 meeting.

Ellsworth’s State champion FFA Vet Science team became the first team to go to FFA Nationals in Indianapolis in late October, representing the area against some of the nation’s brightest. The team placed 21st of 45 teams, with McKenna Edgar taking 25th individually (gold score), Maddie Bowen placing 59th (gold), Peyton Berg 84th (silver) and Emma-Rae Hines 159th (bronze) of 178 individual competitors.

River Falls’ dream season featured 11 wins and a trip to the State Semi-Finals, statistics that put some of the Wildcats up against school history and a team full of students who worked to make 2025 a year to remember. That season came to an end in the State Semi-Final at D.C. Everest on Friday, losing 42-6 to Notre Dame.

Nov. 26, 2025

A disgruntled employee who had been fired confronted a man at his former River Falls workplace and pointed a gun in his face last week. Noah Raymond Angus, 26, was ordered to pay $15,000 cash bond Nov. 19 in St. Croix County Circuit Court on felony first-degree recklessly endangering safety, operate firearm while intoxicated, resisting or obstructing an officer and disorderly conduct charges.

Dr. Greg Miller, who opened Cascade Primary Care in River Falls over the summer, has since gone to speak to school districts, curious community members and, most recently, the Ellsworth Area Chamber of Commerce, about his vision for a reinvented healthcare system that does not price out Americans.

Tis the season to get out your holiday lights and go all “National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation” for the Third Annual Light Up River Falls Contest and a chance to win prizes and community bragging rights.

Spring Valley Equestrian had a great program-building year, doubling the team’s size, growing great relationships and qualifying to compete at State in Madison.

December

Dec. 3, 2025

Bo Jon’s Flowers and Gifts in River Falls has closed indefinitely and is for sale due to the health journey owner Erin Powers is on. The business has meant a lot to the family that purchased it four years ago, and they are thankful for the community making it a special experience.

River Falls High School Theatre will perform “Hadestown: Teen Edition” starting Dec. 5 for two weekends, so make sure to get your tickets now. The show is unlike any other RFHS has performed.

A Minnesota man is accused of forcing an Ellsworth woman into a car with her infant after a domestic incident and trying to flee police on foot when pulled over in River Falls. Samuel Howard Wannebo, 27, St. Paul, pleaded not guilty and was ordered to pay $2,000 cash bond Nov. 10 in Pierce County Circuit Court on violate foreign protection order (repeater), disorderly conduct (domestic abuse, repeater) and disorderly conduct (repeater) charges.

At 10-1 on the year, UWRF football won the WIAC conference for the first time since 1998. The team has ranked as high as No. 4 in Division 3 during the year and reached the playoffs for the third time in program history. Now, the Falcons are looking to further advance that history, moving into the top 16 of the bracket with a dominant win over Chapman (California) 58-7.

Dec. 10, 2025

Are you interested in serving your community by running for office? If so, you can declare your candidacy and turn in nomination papers for the April 2026 election until 5 p.m. Jan. 6 at the municipality in which you wish to run.

Pierce County Emergency Management Director Brad Jorgenson always seems to have a smile on his face and it’s apparent he loves his role and helping others.

The Great River Road Theatre, a non-profit group out of Prescott that brings musicals and plays to the stage for the community, is ready to present their work again, showing “Love, Lies & the Lottery” from Jan. 30-Feb. 1 and Feb. 6-8. The show is at the Old Ptacek’s Event Center.

A 21-year-old Ellsworth man who has faced multiple charges of child sexual assault and was acquitted in one jury trial has pleaded guilty to one felony child sex assault charge and will be sentenced next month. Wyatt Blomberg pleaded guilty to felony second degree sexual assault of child (lifetime supervision of serious sex offenders, repeater) Nov. 5.

Dec. 17, 2025

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction released the district report cards for 2024-25, scoring each district overall, in four categories and further subcategories. Elmwood took the top spot in overall score with a five-star rating, but all six county schools at least met expectations.

Ellsworth’s operational referendum survey did not see significant support from the public, as the school board heard during a Dec. 10 presentation.

The cause of a gas leak at a local biodigester facility last Friday has not been determined and no one reported injuries, according to River Falls Fire Chief Justin Wilson.

The UWRF Falcons are still tearing their way through the Division III football bracket, smacking Wheaton 46-21 in the quarterfinals. Now at 12-1 on the season, River Falls will host Johns Hopkins in the semi-finals Saturday in the program’s first ever semi-final appearance.

Dec. 24, 2025

A former Stockholm woman accused of embezzling more than $200,000 from a Bay City area business where she worked is going to prison. Bryoni Lynn Eggenberger, 54, formerly of Stockholm, now living in Akaska, SD, was convicted of felony theft – business setting > $100,000 Dec. 19 in Pierce County Circuit Court and sentenced to 2.5 years in prison and five years of extended supervision. Eggenberger reportedly embezzled more than $200,000 from Brownseed Genetics while employed there.

What unfolded into a story on NBC News with Tom Llamas had much simpler origins out of River Falls. With D-Bat’s baseball and softball facilities having a few quieter hours during weekdays in the winter, they sought to give the community a chance to use it. Instructor Mady Bunnell, a UWRF graduate, had the idea to reach out to senior care facilities in the city like Our House and The Sycamore. The groups each brought in residents to test their luck on putting a ball into the cheap seats.

The Prescott School Board voted unanimously Dec. 17 to consolidate schools in Summer 2027, moving fourth and fifth grades to Prescott Middle School and eighth grade to Prescott High School.

The score was 41-41 with just over three minutes to play in the Division III Semi-Final on Saturday. UW-River Falls and Johns Hopkins had gone back-and-forth all afternoon through howling wind.