The Director of Quality will be responsible for developing the overall Quality Improvement Strategy and lead the team in the cross-functional adoption and execution of that strategy. In this strategic role, the Director of Quality will be the leader in developing and maintaining a quality management system to improve operating efficiency, quality and productivity in operations, to improve customer satisfaction, and to increase profitability in a safe working environment.
ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:
Develop the overall Quality Improvement Strategy and lead the management team in the cross-functional adoption and execution of that strategy.
Develop and maintain a business/quality management system to improve operating efficiency, quality and productivity in operations, to improve customer satisfaction and increase profitability in a safe working environment within the local business.
Continuously assess the overall Quality Management System, Quality Plan and Quality Organization to determine priorities for quality improvement.
Establish the key improvement priorities, and using a strategy deployment approach, develop and execute a cross-functional, strategic action plan to drive improvement.
Identify the leading sources of customer dissatisfaction.
Determine the underlying causes and develop/execute strategies to eliminate those causes.
Determine the true, systemic root causes of internal failure and Cost of Poor Quality (COPQ).
Execute a strategy consisting of well-planned and executed preventive actions that reduce COPQ and other forms of waste.
Drive improvements in process quality, production efficiency, and the elimination of the factors that drive variability and unforeseen disruptions.
Drive a strategy that incorporates standard work, effective training, and recurring process audits to ensure process discipline.
Establish and maintain appropriate KPIs that provide objective evidence of improvement
Participate in training and coaching teams in the standard quality improvement approach and quality management standard requirements to develop organizational capability.
EDUCATION & EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor’s degree in business, quality, continuous improvement, or related field.
10+ years of professional experience leading a Quality Organization in capital equipment manufacturing environment.
Experience with the execution of continuous improvement methodology such as Operational Excellence, Lean Manufacturing, Strategy Deployment, etc.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, ABILITIES:
Requires the ability to independently resolve complex problems.
Requires ability to manage a skilled and diverse staff, communicate effectively, represent the organization, act decisively, and influence decisions of senior managers and customers.
Requires foresight to anticipate problems and recognize opportunities for cost-effectively improving operations.
COMPETENCIES
Customer Focus – Building strong customer relationships and delivering customer-centric solutions.
Instills Trust – Gaining the confidence and trust of others through honesty, integrity, and authenticity.
Drives Results - Consistently achieving results, even under tough circumstances.
Communicates Effectively - Developing and delivering multi-mode communications that convey a clear understanding of the unique needs of different audiences.
Optimizes Work Processes - Knowing the most effective and efficient processes to get things done, with a focus on continuous improvement.
Ensures Accountability - Holding self and others accountable to meet commitments.
Collaborates – Building partnerships and collaborating with others to meet shared objectives.
Decision Quality – Making good and timely decisions that keep the organization moving forward.
Reports received by the police departments in Price County for the month have been condensed and summarized.
PRICE COUNTY SHERIFF'S OFFICE
The sheriff's office began sending county reports again beginning on February 9, 2026.
2-9-2026: A woman requested a welfare check on her boyfriend, who she did not have contact with since February 3, 2026. He was not responding to phone calls or text messages. The man had poor mobility and heart problems. Dispatch could not make contact by phone, so officers arrived on scene. Emergency services responded.
2-9-2026: A warden reported receiving a complaint of a Prentice man's dogs chasing deer.
2-9-2026: A man reported a fraudulent charge of $633.45 on his account for a bill from a dumpster company. The man contacted the owner of the dumpster company, who indicated the person attempting to use the man's card was associated with a local farm. The identity of the person remained unknown.
2-10-2026: The district attorney's office reported a woman was in the office screaming at staff members.
2-11-2026: A woman reported her neighbor was throwing rocks at her house in Park Falls.
2-12-2026: A Prentice woman said she and her dog were attacked by a group of dogs while on a walk. Both she and her dog were bit. She was not bleeding, but her dog was bleeding from its hind legs. The woman did not know the owner of the dogs or address except it was at a trailer home. It was reported she was also attached in the fall of 2025 by the same dogs.
2-12-2026: A person reported a male walking north on State Hwy. 13 just outside of the City of Phillips. The person walking stated he was walking to Glidden.
2-13-2026: A garage fire was reported. Ogema, Prentice, Catawba, and Kennan Fire Departments, along with Prentice Ambulance Service, were paged.
2-13-2026: Received a call from a facility that a resident had threatened to commit suicide and had threatened to kill an employee earlier in the day. The resident did not have weapons and had not presented a plan. The resident was in a wheelchair and had COVID.
2-13-2026: A person reported a person running, screaming, and hitting their legs in the middle of the road on Sunnyside Road between County Road I and Macky Spur Road. The reporting party could not tell if the person was male or female as he/she did not look when the reporting party drove by.
2-13-2026: A person reported a domestic situation between a man and woman in Park Falls. Nothing physical happened, but the man was making threats to the mother of his child and her boyfriend. Later, the boyfriend called to state the man was chasing them down the road.
2-13-2026: A deputy went into the ditch with his squad vehicle. No injuries.
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Phillips Public Library, located at 286 Cherry Street in Phillips, has lots of activities and events planned for this month. Visit the library's website for more information.
2-15-2026: A woman found a male lying on the ground. He appeared intoxicated and extremely cold. She tried to get him onto his ATV, which failed to start. The woman had to go to work, so she left the scene and called authorities.
2-15-2026: A woman in Ogema reported a neighbor had been waving a gun at her husband.
2-16-2026: A man reported his son came home from school and told him a vehicle followed him and was playing games. They passed him, slowed down to 10 MPH, and when the son attempted to pass the vehicle, it drove in the middle of the roadway so he could not pass. When the son got home, the vehicle went past the residence, slowed, and flipped off his son. Two girls from school were believed to be in the vehicle.
2-17-2026: A Park Falls woman reported she had a cat in the walls for a few months, and it was finally caught but appeared to be sick.
2-19-2026: A 911 call was received, and dispatch heard screaming and yelling before the call disconnected. Dispatch called back, a man answered, and he would not give information about his location stating he was visiting a friend. When asked for the friend's name, he stated he was unsure and said the friend was not home. Police responded.
2-19-2026: A man in Park Falls reported leaving work and being charged at with a night stick. The man who allegedly had the night stick said the other man tried to run him over with his 4-wheeler.
2-20-2026: A motel owner in Park Falls reported that a long-term resident had not been seen for some time and all his belongings were still in his room.
2-20-2026: A woman said she was in a home as it was being placed for sale, and she discovered drug paraphernalia, and it looked like a chair had been set on fire at one point. The home was in disarray. The owner was currently in a rehab facility.
2-21-2026: An Apple watch alert for crash detection was sent to dispatch. The man stated he was pinned under his 4-wheeler in Phillips. Emergency services responded.
2-21-2026: A woman reported a bottle of alcohol was stolen at her bar and she had proof on video.
2-22-2026: A man reported the door was open at his deceased mother's home, and it looked like it had been broken into. Police responded.
2-22-2026: A Prentice man reported he gave his mother $1,000 to hold so he would not spend it, but then he requested the money back from his mother. She told him to call the authorities to get it back, so he did.
2-24-2026: A Park Falls woman called stating that her sister was driving to Minocqua and witnessed a vehicle going into the ditch on Hwy. 70 near Riley Lake Road. The driver did not want an ambulance and was not injured.
2-25-2026: An anonymous person wanted to speak to a deputy or investigator regarding reporting a sexual assault that occurred over 35 years ago. The person believed the suspect was continuing their behavior. The alleged sexual contact occurred in Price County but not in Phillips or Park Falls. The caller wanted to know how the report would be handled, if it was worth reporting, and if it would help other victims. An investigator was assigned.
2-25-2026: A Prentice woman called to report that her son was shacking up with a 15-year-old girl.
2-26-2026: A woman stated her husband took home a rolled over vehicle that was in the ditch, and it was not their vehicle. A purse was in the vehicle.
2-27-2026: Lincoln County Sheriff's Office advised dispatch that a vehicle, involved in a pursuit, had flipped over and assistance was requested.
2-28-2026: A woman reported a man was at her door to pick up his mail, but he had not scheduled a time to do so. The man called stating he had scheduled a time to pick up his mail, and the woman would not give him the mail.
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Davette Lynne Hrabak, CPA, located at 164 South Lake Avenue in Phillips, specializes in tax return preparation, business start-up services, consulting, bookkeeping, payroll, and all your accounting needs. Call 715-339-6638 or visit Davette's website. Follow her Facebook page.
PHILLIPS POLICE DEPARTMENT
2-2-2026: Received a report that a student ran from the off-site campus. Officers located the male student and were advised that no physical altercation occurred.
2-2-2026: Received a report of a two-vehicle accident.
2-2-2026: Received a report of a horse in the middle of North Lake Avenue. Officers arrived on scene and observed the horse had gone back to the residence.
2-3-2026: Police were contacted by a homeowner and advised his water pipes had started leaking on Germania Avenue. An officer contacted Phillips Water and Sewer to shut off the water main.
2-3-2026: Assisted the Central Price County Ambulance Service with an adult male who was reported to be having a seizure in his vehicle outside of a local gas station. Officers arrived on scene and were informed that the adult had spent a length of time in the bathroom and then went out to his vehicle and nodded off. Officers searched the vehicle and found drug paraphernalia and THC.
2-4-2026: Observed a water main break on North Avon Avenue near Elm Street. An officer contacted Phillips DPW and advised them of the situation. DPW contacted Phillips Water and Sewer.
2-4-2026: Eleven sidewalks were in violation of the snow removal ordinance.
2-4-2026: Responded to assist the Phillips School District with a juvenile who was behaving violently and disorderly.
2-4-2026: Requested to respond to the Phillips Elementary School for a report of a violent juvenile male. The officer and juvenile’s mother responded. The juvenile was calmed down and taken home. The officer will be referring charges to Human Services.
2-5-2026: Received a traffic complaint regarding a motor vehicle that pulled out in front of traffic on State Hwy. 13 from State Hwy. 70, and it was reported to almost side sweep another vehicle. The officer stopped the vehicle, the driver was identified by their driver’s license, the officer informed the driver of the safety concerns for the violation, and issued a citation.
2-6-2026: Received a report of a disturbance at an apartment complex on Eyder Avenue regarding a child custody matter. Officers arrived and spoke to all parties. One adult female was arrested for domestic disorderly conduct and resisting an officer. The adult female will also be referred for possession of THC.
2-6-2026: Received a report of a sexual assault. An officer conducted an interview with the adult female victim. Further investigation is required
2-6-2026: Received a complaint of child abuse. An officer spoke to the complainant and Price County Health and Human Services. This matter is currently under investigation.
2-11-2026: Received a complaint of a car parked on the sidewalk on North Lake Avenue. An officer made contact with the owner of the car and they advised the car would be moved.
2-11-2026: Made phone contact with a subject reporting possible harassment occurring via a social media platform. An officer was provided screenshots, and the incident is under investigation.
2-13-2026: Received a report for an adult male that there was a disorderly situation that occurred at a county board meeting a few days ago and would like charges pressed. The officer reviewed the video of the meeting and determined that a crime was not committed.
2-13-2026: Received a report from an adult male that his fence had been damaged on his property on Avon Avenue.
2-13-2026: Responded to a residential care facility in the City of Phillips for a resident that made threatening comments. An officer made contact with staff, who advised they were monitoring the resident. The officer advised the facility to contact the resident’s power of attorney and to contact law enforcement if an emergency situation arises.
2-15-2026: Arrested a male adult at his residence on Avon Avenue for two body only warrants out of Price County. The adult male was brought to the Price County Jail where he was booked in and waiting to see the Price County judge.
2-16-2026: Issued a Courtesy Violation Notice for junk on a property on Forest Avenue. The owner was given seven days to remove the junk, or the DPW would be notified.
2-17-2026: Observed a vehicle parked on the wrong side of South Argyle Avenue. An officer spoke to the driver who had been speaking to a male individual and advised of the city ordinance, which prohibits parking the opposite way on a street. The operator moved the vehicle to the opposite side of the street.
2-17-2026: Responded to a two-vehicle accident in the parking lot of the Phillips Elementary School. There were no injuries or road blockage. A driver had backed into a parked vehicle causing minor damage.
2-18-2026: Assisted the Central Price County Ambulance Service with a 7-month-old male that was having difficulty breathing. The infant was transported to the medical center in Park Falls.
2-18-2026: Located a vehicle stuck on an icy area in the intersection of Cherry Street and North Argyle Avenue. An officer observed the street sign in the area to be damaged with tracks leading to the vehicle. An officer made contact with the vehicle, identified the operator, investigated the crash, and advised the driver they would be cited for driving too fast for conditions. The
vehicle had minor damage, and the street sign was broken from the base. A state accident report will be completed for this incident.
2-19-2026: Responded to an apartment building on Eyder Avenue for the report of a 911 call
where yelling could be heard in the background of the phone call. And officer and deputies arrived on scene, and made contact with the parties involved. It was determined that a juvenile suspect would have charges referred for disorderly conduct. An officer made phone contact with Price County Health and Human Services, and it was determined that a family member would respond to the scene to remove the juvenile and parties would be separated.
2-19-2026: Responded to a suspicious person complaint on Wyoming Street. An officer and deputies made contact with a male subject who was attempting to sleep in a snow bank. The person was advised of the City of Phillips ordinance regarding temporary and permanent residency of sex offenders within restricted zones. Deputies assisted the person with relocating to a safe and warm location.
2-20-2026: Requested to assist Price County Sheriff’s Department arrest of a person for a Price County Body Only Warrant at a business in the City of Phillips. An officer responded, and the subject was taken into custody without issue by a Price County deputy.
2-21-2026: Received an anonymous report of a suspicious person near a snowmobile trail on Airport Road. An officer made contact with the person and brought them to the Price County Sheriff’s Office lobby.
2-22-2026: Assisted the Price County Sheriff's Office with an open door to a residence that had been kicked in just outside the city limits. A deputy and officer cleared the residence and found a male adult sleeping in one of the beds. The deputy detained the male individual and investigated the incident.
2-22-2026: Received a complaint of water on the ice near a bar/restaurant that may be coming from a nearby residence. An officer responded and found no water running out of a residence but out of a culvert on County Road F that led to a small pond.
2-22-2026: Observed a vehicle that was stuck in the snow bank on Peterson Drive. An officer assisted with shoveling the snow out from underneath the vehicle and pushing the vehicle out of the snow bank.
2-24-2026: Assisted the Central Price County Ambulance Service with an adult male who called reporting to 911 dispatch that he had bugs inside of him, and he was infested with bugs. An officer responded and provided security while the adult male was loaded and transported via ambulance to the medical center.
2-25-2026: Responded to a two-vehicle accident on County Road H, west of City Beach Road. There were no injuries or road blockage.
2-25-2026: Responded to the Phillips High School for a juvenile female who was unconscious. The juvenile female was transported to the medical center by the Central Price County Ambulance.
2-25-2026: Forty-six Courtesy Violation Notices were given to property owners who were in violation of the snow removal ordinance.
2-25-2026: Responded to a business in the City of Phillips, where it was reported that an employee had been terminated and their significant other was being disorderly. An officer responded and made contact with the store manager. The store manager requested that law enforcement assist with retrieving store keys from the former employee and advise the significant other they were not welcome back on the property. An officer made contact, retrieved the keys, advised the significant other they would be cited for trespassing if they returned to the property, and to cease contact with the store manager. An officer returned the keys to the store.
2-26-2026: Received information regarding a Phillips Middle School student who made comments to harm a family member.
2-26-2026: Performed a police escort, along with the Price County Sheriff's Office, for Phillips High School state wrestling.
2-26-2026: Notified about a hit and run accident that occurred at a local business. The operator had left the scene of the accident and noticed the damage when he was washing his vehicle.
2-27-2026: Received a phone call from a man who advised they go to events at the Phillips School District and that when they go to park in the handicap parking stalls, they are taken up by vehicles that do not have a permit. The man requested that extra patrol be done during events at the school.
2-27-2026: Requested to assist Price County Sheriff’s Office with a hit and run complaint they had received outside of the City of Phillips. An officer was requested to check Flock cameras for the suspect vehicle, and that information was provided to deputies. An officer assisted deputies with checking areas in the City of Phillips for the suspect vehicle with negative results.
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Deer Creek Angus, LLC has a large selection of Black Angus burgers, steaks, roasts, and other beef products sold by individual packages and in quarters, halves, and whole. Contact Deer Creek Angus, LLC at 715-550-6156, find products & pricing on their website, and follow their Facebook page.
PARK FALLS POLICE DEPARTMENT
2-2-2026: A traffic accident was reported with no injuries.
2-5-2026: There were two reports of suspicious footprints in the snow around a residence.
2-6-2026: Notified by dispatch of a disabled vehicle located just north of the city limits; police were asked to check on the vehicle for Ashland County Sheriff's Office. The vehicle was located and both subjects were transported to the medical center.
2-9-2026: A person advised they received court notices regarding citations issued in their name in Michigan in a county they have never visited.
2-11-2026: There was a two-vehicle accident on private property with no injuries.
2-13-2026: Assisted the Price County Sheriff's Office with an active domestic incident.
2-14-2026: A minor collision occurred between a parked vehicle and moving vehicle in a parking lot.
2-15-2026: An argument between two adults met domestic violence arrest criteria and subjects were separated.
2-16-2026: A woman reported not feeling safe around her son who was causing a disturbance.
2-17-2026: A grocery store reported a homeless person had returned to their store. The person had been there the previous day, sleeping on a bench.
2-19-2026: Received a report of a retired teacher continuing to come to the school. The school does not want him there.
2-19-2026: A woman was concerned that a camera in an upstairs window could see in her window.
2-19-2026: A disturbance between coworkers occurred in the roadway after their work shift.
2-18-2026: Arrest made for theft at grocery store. Referred to district attorney's office.
2-19-2026: A woman reported her daughter was assaulted, but the victim refused police intervention at this time.
2-24-2026: An individual in Park Falls gave a report for record of threats made by a person living in Phillips.
2-24-2026: An apartment building manager reported two abandoned vehicles.
2-28-2026: Received a report of a hit and run incident reported in grocery store parking lot.
2-28-2026: A woman reported money missing from her wallet, and she believed it was taken from her purse while in the emergency room.
Park Village offers affordable, active living in a park-like setting for those 55+ and disabled persons in Park Falls. Rent is based on 30% Adjusted Gross Income. Small pets under 30 pounds are welcome. Contact Park Village at 715-762-4747.
On Monday, March 2, 2026, a 56-year-old man named Terry DuSell, Ladysmith, was reported as possibly missing. His family had not had contact with him and were concerned of his whereabouts.
Upon investigation, law enforcement developed a person of interest in Terry's disappearance. That person of interest was identified as Charles Allers, 62, Radisson. Charles was taken into custody for an unrelated probation warrant. He is currently at the Sawyer County Jail.
Terry's wife, Elizabeth DuSell, 55, was taken into custody as another person of interest and is at the Rusk County Jail.
On March 3, 2026, investigators found Terry DuSell, who was deceased.
According to Phil Grassmann, Rusk County sheriff, the investigation is ongoing and very active but there is no threat to the public at this time.
The Rusk County Sheriff's Office is being assisted by the Wisconsin Department of Justice Division of Criminal Investigations, LCO Tribal Police, LCO Conservation Department, and Sawyer County Sheriff's Office.
UPDATED 3-4-2026:
According to the criminal complaint, which was released by the Rusk County Sheriff's Office, a family member reported Terry missing on March 2, 2026, having last seen him on February 26, 2026. His vehicle information was given to the police. The vehicle was found, but it was being driven by Charles Allers. Charles was currently in custody for a probation warrant. He said he found the truck with the keys in it at a motel in Rice Lake, so he took it.
On March 3, 2026, Charles was interviewed by police in Sawyer County. Charles admitted to having an intimate relationship with the victim's wife, Elizabeth DuSell, for about two months. He occasionally stayed at a secondary residence on the property where Terry was killed, though Terry did not know he stayed there, and Terry did not know about the affair, according to Charles and Elizabeth. Charles and Elizabeth had spoken about how things would be different if Terry was not in the picture, and Charles said they talked at length about killing Terry. Charles said he told Elizabeth that they could not say it was a crime of passion, because they had lengthy historical discussions about killing him.
Charles admitted to killing Terry after 3 a.m. on February 28, 2026. While in the main residence, he stated he went outside and retrieved the .22 Ruger handgun that Elizabeth told him was in the victim's truck. Charles went upstairs, hesitated two times, but ultimately said he felt no emotional connection to the victim, nor would he ever apologize to the family of the victim for what he did. He said he shot Terry six or seven times, and as he went downstairs, he heard Terry fall out of bed.
Charles then removed the body from the house using a thick rope, duct tape, and bedding. Once outside, a tow rope was tied to the other rope, binding the deceased man. Terry's truck was backed up, and the body was dragged from the porch to a resting location behind a cattle trailer. The body was concealed with a blanket and out of vision of the driveway and residence.
According to Sheriff Grassmann, "Elizabeth DuSell was given a $25,000 cash bond today in Rusk County Court for the charge of Hiding a Corpse. More charges will be forthcoming in the very near future." The sheriff also stated that more updates would be shared when available. He reminded the public that all persons are innocent until proven guilty.
By: Davette Lynne Hrabak, CPA, CFE, CBM, ATA, ATP, ABA, ARA, CGMA, https://www.DavetteLynneHrabak.com “When it comes to taxes, save the lion’s share; enter between the lions to get this special care.”
Whether you are saving for retirement or retired, there is important information you need to know for the preparation of your taxes.
2025 TAX YEAR RETIREMENT SAVER’S CREDIT
The Retirement Saver’s Credit is available in 2025 to various taxpayers who fit into the proper criteria and who make eligible contributions. It is a non-refundable credit which allows for a taxpayer to receive a non-refundable credit of up to $2,000 for a Married Filing Jointly Tax Status and up to $1,000 for a Single or other filing Tax Filing Status.
Many taxpayers are surprised to learn that they have contributions that count for this credit.
Qualifying taxpayers must be at least 18 years old by the end of the year, not be claimed as a dependent on another taxpayer’s tax return, and cannot be a full-time student.
The Retirement Saver’s Credit is also subject to phase-outs, which vary depending on a taxpayer’s filing status and Adjusted Gross Income amounts. If a taxpayer lands in the proper range, then the taxpayer would be eligible to receive from 10 to 50 percent of their contributions back up to a maximum allowed by their filing status.
There are also rules on eligible contributions and some reductions of some eligible contributions, but, overall, many taxpayers are able to use this credit.
2025 TAX YEAR TIP: QUICK RETIREMENT TAX FACTS
Each year the IRS releases and revises various limits for various retirement type accounts, some of which are listed below:
IRA Contribution Limits:
Under Age 50: $7,000
Age 50 or Older: $8,000
Elective Deferral Limits On:
Simple IRA Plan:
Under Age 50: $16,500
Age 50 through 59: $20,000
Age 60, 61, 62, or 63 in 2025: $21,750
401(K), 403(B), and 457 Plans:
Under Age 50: $23,500
Age 50 through 59: $31,000
Age 60, 61, 62, or 63 in 2025: $34,750
Each person’s tax situation is unique. There are a variety of plans out there; the above list is not all inclusive but provides some information on some of the most common ones. Each person’s tax situation must be looked at on a case-by-case basis for each taxpayer; rarely are any two taxpayers’ situations identical.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT SOCIAL SECURITY AND YOUR TAXES - NEW LIMITS FOR 2025
Social Security and Medicare are not just about retirement; they also have tax issues for individuals and businesses.
Each year, the maximum amount of earnings that is subject to Social Security Tax and Medicare Tax changes.
For 2025, the maximum amount of earnings subject to Social Security Tax was $176,100 and for 2026 it will be $184,500.
For 2025 and 2026, the maximum earnings subject to Medicare Tax is unlimited.
A very common question that many people have as they are nearing retirement, and when they are in the first year of their retirement, is, “What is the maximum amount of earnings that I can make and still receive my full Social Security benefits?”
For 2025, you could have made $23,400 if you were under the full retirement age at December 31, 2025. For 2026, if you are under the full retirement age at year’s end, you can make $24,480. However, if it is the year in which you reach full retirement age, for the months leading up to full retirement age only, you could have made $62,160 for 2025, and you can make $65,160 for 2026. Further, in the month that full retirement age is reached and later, there is no limit to the amount you can earn and still receive full benefits.
Just because you can earn as much as you like and still get your full benefits once you hit full retirement age, you still have to pay taxes on any portion of your Social Security that is taxable, just like you did in years before you hit your full retirement age. The rules are for a calculation of reduction of benefits, not a reduction of taxes.
Remember, if you have already filed but realize that you could have had a credit or deduction that you missed, it is not too late; you can always amend your return. If you need more information or believe you could qualify for them, call Davette at 715-339-6638 for a free, no obligation quote. Her office is located between the lion statues at 164 South Lake Avenue in Phillips.
Davette Lynne Hrabak, CPA, located at 164 South Lake Avenue in Phillips, specializes in tax return preparation, business start-up services, consulting, bookkeeping, payroll, and all your accounting needs. Call 715-339-6638 or visit Davette's website. Follow her Facebook page.
The hockey team finished the regular season with a record of 7-13. The last game was played against Rhinelander, they won 5-2, and had a nice comeback game against Spooner two weeks ago. The next game is in regionals, where they face Ashland, the #2 seed, as the #7 seed.
Student Council
Student Council planned Winterfest with dress-up days of pajama day, rhyme without reason, summer vs. winter, meme day, and neon day. The activity day was on Friday, and the Glo-Ball dance was on Saturday in the high school commons.
Band
The band has been preparing for their next concert on March 17, 2026. Along with that, they have also been eagerly waiting for their trip down to Madison where they will watch Back to the Future on Broadway and visit the House on the Rock.
Choir
Emily Lamy said, “We had our POPS Concert last week and were able to test out the new dancing risers, which were a success. Now we’re preparing for the Large Group Festival Concert and Solo and Ensemble.”
FBLA
Emmet Knudson shared, “FBLA had their regional leadership conference on Feb 7, 2026, where we had many people medal. We have our Bucks game trip at the end of the month where students will get to go to Milwaukee for
the day, listen to a business panel, and get a tour of Fiserv Forum, as well as watch the game that night.” McKenna Jones and Gabby Prostek advanced on to state, which will be held in Green Bay at the KI Convention Center in April.
Mock Trial
Mock trial has concluded their season after the regional at the Marathon County Courthouse where they had four trials facing off against some large schools. They finished 4th overall, missing state once again by just two places. The team will have twelve members returning next year, but that is with the loss of five seniors, including Gavin Esterholm, Joslyn Kleist, Pavithra Kumaravel, Suzanne Ludwig, and Leah Harper.
Spring Sports
Spring sports, such as baseball, track, softball, and soccer are making their way closer and closer with their start dates ranging from early to mid-March.
Trip to Appleton
A group of students went to Appleton to see Hamilton on Broadway. Addie Gabay shared, "The trip was very good; everyone had lots of fun at the Fox River Mall, and Hamilton was a very fun musical to watch live."
In early February 2026, the Park Falls Police Department was notified by a shop owner that a man had accidently taken the wrong vehicle and had made some changes to it.
An officer began investigating and learned that two vehicles, which had the same color paint, were close to the same year, and were the same make and model, were at a shop in Park Falls. When one of the vehicles were done, someone other than the person who had dropped it off, picked it up. They got the keys and took the vehicle to the owner's house. At that time, a wheel bearing was installed. Shortly after, when the two men could not find certain items in the car, they realized they had the wrong car. They notified the shop and brought it back. The man who picked up the car said he was given the key for it and did not know it was someone else's until the wheel bearing was already put in, and the man he picked it up for said it was not his vehicle.
The shop owner said he could not remove the part. However, he offered to pay the cost of the part to the man who installed the part, and he offered to make sure it was installed correctly in the car where it got installed.
Both men got their correct vehicles returned to them.
Park Village offers affordable, active living in a park-like setting for those 55+ and disabled persons in Park Falls. Rent is based on 30% Adjusted Gross Income. Small pets under 30 pounds are welcome. Contact Park Village at 715-762-4747.
On Tuesday, February 24, 2026, at 12:37 p.m., the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office received an emergency call. A 73-year-old man had been run over by a vehicle. According to authorities, "Immediately after the phone call, life saving measures were attempted; however, the male succumbed to his injuries on scene."
The tragic accident occurred on the Willow Flowage in the Town of Little Rice. In a windy, heavy snowstorm, a vehicle became stuck on the ice. Randall G. Bernau, Hazelhurst, WI, got onto the bumper of the vehicle, attempting to gain better traction for the driver, Jeffrey Larson, Irma, WI. At some point, the Randall fell off the bumper, and he was run over by the truck as it was backing up.
Alcohol and recklessness were determined not to be factors in this tragic accident. There will not be charges referred to the District Attorney’s Office.
On scene assisting the Oneida County Sheriff’s Office were personnel from the Little Rice Fire Department and the Oneida County Ambulance Service.
By: Davette Lynne Hrabak, CPA, CFE, CBM, ATA, ATP, ABA, ARA, CGMA, https://www.DavetteLynneHrabak.com “When it comes to taxes, save the lion’s share; enter between the lions to get this special care.”
There are a number of credits and deductions available to taxpayers. The following four sections, (with each heading in bold for ease of reference), focus on tax credits, including the information you should bring to your tax preparer, the Earned Income Credit (sometimes available even if there are no qualifying children), the Homestead Credit, and a summary of many of the credits that are available.
WHEN IN DOUBT, BRING IT IN AND BRING IT UP
There are so many credits and deductions available to taxpayers; many which individual or business taxpayers may not be aware of. Each person’s individual tax situation is unique. An individual that is lower income, someone who has kids, a person who owns and runs a business or a rental, or someone who has a combination of factors on their returns each have unique needs and unique deductions and credits.
It is virtually impossible for an individual to know what all is deductible and what is not on their own. Therefore, when you bring your items in to be prepared, do not hesitate to talk to your CPA. Mention any questions that you have and discuss what all has gone on in your year financially. Many times these conversations open a person up to finding out that they have more deductions and credits available to them than they thought. Remember there is no such thing as a stupid question.
Sometimes these helpful conversations can even lead to planning for the future. For example, maybe you have an item that would have been deductible had you taken certain steps in documenting it. The discussion would lead to letting you know what you can do for the following year to make next year’s taxes more bearable.
If you think you have an item that could be deductible, bring it up and ask about it. The worst thing that could happen in bringing it up is that you find out it is not deductible. The best thing is that you find out it is deductible or it sparks additional questions that could lead to something else that may help you in your own individual tax situation.
Bring your prior year return in with you so it can be looked over. Having a thought-provoking discussion and the prior year return available can go far in making sure things have been done the way that they should have been, and, if an issue is found, the best possible course of action can be discussed.
In my practice, I have found new clients coming in that did not realize the deductions and credits that they have missed in prior years’ returns. Many were surprised that some of them can still be claimed without amending a return, (for example, a missed Homestead Credit in a prior year), or via amending a return if needed for some items that can only be corrected in that manner.
Remember, if you have already filed but realize that you could have had a credit or deduction that you missed, it is not too late; you can always amend your return. If you need more information or believe you could qualify for them, I would be happy to give you a free quote on the preparation of your return.
When the right tax and financial advice is essential, talk to someone with an unmatched level of knowledge, experience, and education. A CPA understands the business of taxes and finance and can provide trusted advice and services during the tax season and throughout the calendar year.
For a free, no obligation quote, call Davette at 715-339-6638. Her office is located between the lion statues at 164 South Lake Avenue in Phillips.
THE 2025 TAX YEAR EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT: IN SOME CASES, EVEN IF THERE ARE NO QUALIFYING CHILDREN; INCREASED CREDIT AMOUNTS FOR 2025
The Earned Income Tax Credit is a credit that is available to many taxpayers. It is based on a person’s income and the number of qualifying children that they have. However, many people do not realize that if a taxpayer’s income level falls within certain parameters, then a person whom does not have any qualifying children can qualify for the credit if all criteria are met.
The Earned Income Tax Credit is a complicated credit that has many rules and adjustments to a taxpayer’s income but it is an often used credit and provides a refund to many people, even in cases where the taxpayer has not had any federal or state withholding taken out of their pay. It is part of a group of credits which are called refundable credits, which basically means that a taxpayer can get back more than what they had withheld from their paychecks.
The maximum Earned Income Credit amounts available to taxpayers are dependent on whether or not the taxpayer has children, and, if they have children, the number of children they have.
If a taxpayer has no children, the maximum credit that they could qualify for is $649.
If a taxpayer has one child, the maximum credit that they could qualify for is $4,328.
If a taxpayer has two children, the maximum credit that they could qualify for is $7,152.
If a taxpayer has more than two children, the maximum credit that they could qualify for is $8,046.
Wisconsin has a Wisconsin Earned Income Credit which provides additional amounts based on individual taxpayer’s facts and circumstances.
For a free, no obligation quote, call Davette at 715-339-6638. Her office is located between the lion statues at 164 South Lake Avenue in Phillips.
Davette Lynne Hrabak, CPA, located at 164 South Lake Avenue in Phillips, specializes in tax return preparation, business start-up services, consulting, bookkeeping, payroll, and all your accounting needs. Call 715-339-6638 or visit Davette's website. Follow her Facebook page.
COULD YOU BE OVER-LOOKING THE HOMESTEAD CREDIT?
Wisconsin has a credit that is known as the Homestead Credit. If you own a home or rent you may be eligible to obtain a refund even if you are not otherwise required to file a tax return.
Below is a basic summary of the qualifications for a taxpayer to be eligible for the Wisconsin Homestead Credit. If you fall into the basic summary, then it would be in your best interest to look further into the credit to ensure you qualify for it, as, if you do, it is a very rewarding credit.
The Wisconsin Homestead Credit basic qualifications are as follows:
The property that you occupied and owned or rented, meaning your home, apartment, or other dwelling, must be subject to Wisconsin property taxes in 2025. However, there is an exception to this if the property is owned by a municipal housing authority. If the property is owned by a municipal housing authority, it would not be considered tax-exempt for the Homestead Credit if the authority makes payments to a town or city in which it is located. If you are considering the Homestead Credit, and if you live in a place that would be considered public housing, you should check with the management of the facility to see if the property would qualify for the Homestead Credit.
You must be a legal resident of Wisconsin for the entire 2025 year.
By December 31, 2025 you must be 18 years of age or older.
Your household income, based on a formula used for the credit, must be less than $24,680 for 2025.
You must meet one of the following conditions: A. During 2025, you or your spouse, if you were married, and live in the same household, must have positive earned income during the year. B. You or your spouse, if you are married, and live in the same household are disabled. C. You or your spouse, if you are married, are at least 62 years of age or older by the end of 2025.
You must own or rent a Wisconsin homestead that is subject to Wisconsin property taxes during 2025. People that live in a mobile home or a manufactured home or nursing homes qualify as long as the homes are subject to property taxes.
You cannot be claimed as a dependent for the year on someone else’s federal tax return. However, there is an exception to this if you were 62 years of age or more on December 31, 2025.
You and your spouse, if married, will not claim the Farmland Preservation Credit for 2025 or the Veterans and Surviving Spouse’s Property Tax Credit based on your 2025 property taxes.
At the time of filing, you cannot live in a nursing home and receive Title XIX medical assistance.
You cannot file a claim on behalf of a person after his or her death.
During 2025, if you received Wisconsin Works (W2) payments of any amount or $400 or more in any month in 2025 from county relief payments, your situation is a bit more complicated for the Homestead Credit. If you did, then rent and property taxes have to be reduced by one twelfth for each month that you received any of those benefits.
You need to fully understand the definition of household for the Homestead Credit, as only one claim can be filed per their definition of household.
The Homestead Credit is a very complicated credit which has a lot of modifications to the taxpayer’s income; however, it is also a credit that is very helpful to Wisconsin residents and one that is overlooked by many taxpayers who mistakenly think that just because they are not required to file a return, that they then should not file one. The above listed qualifications are not all inclusive; please consult with a tax adviser for other qualifications required.
For a free, no obligation quote, call Davette at 715-339-6638. Her office is located between the lion statues at 164 South Lake Avenue in Phillips.
ARE YOU GETTING ALL THE CREDITS YOU QUALIFY FOR? A SUMMARY OF MOST TAX CREDITS FOR 2025
There are a variety of credits available for the 2025 tax year. Of course, each has its own criteria and limitations. However, if you qualify for any of them, it will make quite a difference on your tax return. The following is a list of a number of the credits available and a brief summary of what they encompass.
Additional Child Credit: It is for taxpayers who do not claim the full $2,200 tax credit for each child due to circumstances on their returns and who have one or more qualifying children and over $2,500 of earned income, or have three or more children that are qualifying.
Adoption Expense: For a child who is adopted legally who is under age 18 or for the adoption of a person that is incapacitated or special needs (regardless of age). However, this credit has a phase out for Modified Adjusted Gross Income from $259,190 to $299,190.
Child and Dependent Care Credit: Expenses for care of dependent(s) who are under the age of 13 or incapacitated. This credit is provided to assist a taxpayer to work or look for work.
Child Credit: If a taxpayer has a qualifying child under the age of 17. Phase-out ranges apply due to Adjusted Gross Income levels.
Earned Income: Taxpayers with or without qualifying children who meet various income and other qualifications.
Education, American Opportunity: For qualified higher education expenses for up to four years of qualified higher education.
Education, Lifetime Learning: For qualified post-secondary education and other courses that are to acquire or improve job skills.
Elderly or Disabled: Low income taxpayers age 65 or older or permanently and totally disabled.
Energy Efficient Home Improvement: Taxpayers who are homeowners and who decided to install certain energy saving improvements. Some examples of the improvements are insulation, windows, and doors. If a homeowner taxpayer has an energy audit performed, the cost of the energy audit also qualifies.
Federal Tax Paid on Fuels: Fuels which are used on a farm for farming purposes or fuels for off-highway business use and other qualified uses.
Foreign Tax: Income taxes that are paid to a foreign country or a U.S. possession on income that is subject to U.S. federal income tax.
Minimum Tax: If you are subject to Alternative Minimum Tax (AMT), this is a credit allowed against regular tax for part of the AMT paid and it is attributable to deferral items.
Mortgage Interest: A portion of interest expense paid by home buyers who have been issued a government mortgage credit certificate.
Other Dependents: A credit allowed for qualifying dependents that are not qualifying children.
Premium Assistance: This is for certain taxpayers who enroll or whose family member enrolls in a qualified health plan, which needs to be one that is offered in the Marketplace, meaning the health insurance exchange.
Previously Owned Clean Vehicle Credit: This credit is for certain used vehicles that are purchased by a taxpayer, meaning that the original use of the vehicle must have started with a person that is not the current owner of the vehicle and the vehicle must meet the requirements for the Clean Vehicle Credit that is for new vehicles. This credit is subject to ranges on modified adjusted gross income. Vehicles must have been purchased on or before September 30, 2025.
Residential Clean Energy: This credit is for property that is installed on a taxpayer’s residence for items such as qualified solar electric, qualified solar water heating property, qualified small wind energy, or a qualified geothermal heat pump, fuel cell, and battery storage technology.
Retirement Saver’s: This is for people who make retirement plan contributions based on income level. This credit is in the amount of 10 to 50 percent of contributions, within various phase-out ranges.
For a free, no obligation quote, call Davette at 715-339-6638. Her office is located between the lion statues at 164 South Lake Avenue in Phillips.
JJ Heikkinen, the son of Jeff and Heather Heikkinen, broke three school basketball records on Monday, February 23, 2026, at the Phillips Loggers basketball game against the Chequamegon Screaming Eagles in Park Falls.
Breaking his own three-point record, JJ made 12 three-point shots in a single game. His previous record was nine shots.
At halftime, JJ had already made 32 points. By the end of the game, he had a total of 59 points, which is a record amount of points to make in a single game. Austin Edwards previously held the record. Austin commented, "Special kid. Special player. Hard to put it any other way. Deserving of every record. Congratulations, JJ. You’re the GOAT."
Jacob Schlub held the record for most points in a single season, but JJ broke that record on Monday night.
On Thursday night, February 26, JJ will attempt to break the career scoring record that is held by Jacob Schlub. According to JJ's proud dad, Jeff, JJ needs eleven points to reach that milestone.
The December Eagle Award winners, above, from Park Falls Elementary School of the Chequamegon School District displayed "gratitude."
Front Row, Left to Right: Mackenzie Miesbauer, Kaydin Dahlgren, Savanna Kagie, Macy Patterson, Soryn Martin, Evelyn Beczka, and Frank Sohl
Back Row, Left to Right: Amyia Eiffler, Theodore Hammond, Jackson Koerner, Harper Patterson, Claire Oswald, Owen Schuh, and Paisley Kirchoff.
Submitted photo.
The January Eagle Award winners, above, displayed "kindness."
Front Row, Left to Right: Brynlee Petroski, Ikaika Rodriguez, Graysen Hawn, Octavia Stewart, Deliah Mann, Jamie Herbst, and Kye Christesen
Back Row, Left to Right: Diana Skawinski, Atea Silbanuz, Tucker Pydo, Hunter Buech, Azaelia Christensen, Cam Arnsten, Carter Schuelke, and Jake Herbst
Park Village offers affordable, active living in a park-like setting for those 55+ and disabled persons in Park Falls. Rent is based on 30% Adjusted Gross Income. Small pets under 30 pounds are welcome. Contact Park Village at 715-762-4747.
The December 2025 and January 2026 Soar Award winners demonstrated "perseverance."
Submitted photo.
December 2025
Front Row, Left to Right: Tucker Hill, Arlo Schuelke, J-Dee Barnabas, and Hayden Kortbein
Middle Row, Left to Right: NJ David, Lexa Medearis, and Aspen Hill
Back Row, Left to Right: Myah Cole, DanaFaye Sohl, JellieAnn Barnabas, Billy Porath, Hazel Singer, and Maddox Rabauliman
Submitted photo.
January 2026
Front Row Left to Right: Izebella Shields, Adriana Schultz, Zelina Rougeau, Gabe Tapplin, Kathryn Miesbauer and Shaia Barnabas
Back Row Left to Right: Zariah Myers, Skylar Wulf, Madison Feit, Ellianna Singer, Hendrix Scott, Angel LaPlant, Gideon Schuelke and Eli Siegmann
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