The Chippewa Valley Blog

Remember that oil?

2009-02-13T09:56:00.002-06:00

I never used it. The furnace blew a fuse or something so now I'm stuck without using it, but we survived. It would get cold but this little room stayed toasty with the electric fireplace. Now I have to go figure out what is wrong with the furnace. At least there will be a nice tank ready for next year for January.

The bathroom and kitchen weren't very pleasant. I had to heat the kitchen up with the oven sometimes. That would have been okay except that I would forget that I left it on and it ended up costing a lot of money in January. That's okay, the bill is paid and the kids stayed warm. That is what matters to me.

I still think the oil companies are bogus though. Unfortunately, my family has money saved in oil--at least for now. I suppose if I get an inheritance, which will probably not be much after the stock market died and Obama's failed policies will not help it at all, I think that I will invest it elsewhere. Not sure with what yet. New technology perhaps? Hell, at that point I probably won't have anything left over to invest and we'll have to live on it.

All I Wanted Was 1 Drink

2008-12-31T21:36:00.002-06:00

I never drink. I don't drink on my birthday, I don't drink on the weekends, etc. So, why is it that on the last night of the year I just want to go get a 1 shot bottle of rum for my hot buttered rum mix just so I can have ONE drink at midnight and I go into Gordy's at 3 minutes to 9 pm (at least the clock up front said so and I KNOW it doesn't take me 2 minutes to walk to the back) and the guy says "it's 8:59 we've closed."

UGH. How rude!

What is with this stupid no selling alcohol after 9 pm anyway? How long has that been in affect? Does it stop the drinking? No. All it does is send people to the bar for a drink where they'll stay until 2 am and then drive home drunk. Hello?

Breaking News

2008-12-25T17:58:00.001-06:00

Fire destroys family's home on Christmas

An Altoona police officer held a dag rescued from the Altoona duplex fire.

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Well I'm Getting OIl

2008-12-18T08:54:00.002-06:00

I can't stand this cold any longer. I'm going to do a minimum fill and pray it lasts the whole season with the combination of electric heat I'm using.

This house is terribly drafty so there really isn't much I can do about it. The landlords like to claim that it is because the house is old, and while that maybe true there are still things they could do to fix it.

The roof has a big space where the bats get in during the summer. I've asked them to look at it but I suppose they don't want to put up the cost to fix it. I'm sure that is a BIG heat leak. The front door doesn't seem to want to shut. Of course it doesn't help that my ex didn't like the door lock on the front door because he was the only one who couldn't figure out how to unlock it so he took it off thinking it was a fire hazard. It actually helped shut the door, but of course he ruined it and now the door doesn't really line up.

Would someone just marry him so he'll leave me alone? Please???

So now I have to figure out how to make it safe yet warm. Oh, I tried those liners that you put in but they make it so you can't shut the door at all. I can't just box it up because then no one could get out.

I should just move. I'm locked into a lease. Maybe next year.

Is It Cold Enough for You Yet?

2008-12-18T00:55:00.002-06:00

The shower curtains in my bathroom were frozen this morning and the water didn't want to come out of the shower pipe. That's how cold it was in my bathroom this morning. THAT is insane!

It's -12 right now. It's supposed to "warm up" to a mere 25 for the next few days and then drop down to 4. Living here is like living in a weather roller coaster!

The Muffler Shop

2008-12-15T12:17:00.003-06:00

Kudos to The Muffler Shop in Chippewa Falls. Every time I go there the service is always friendly. Recently my muffler fell off in the front so I took it in and they did their magic. It was quick and not very expensive. Yes, that was me you heard driving around town that sounded like a huge motorcycle ripping through town. I knew the muffler came down a little because of the sound yet it was so loud that I couldn't hear the pipe dragging. When you look under the car it didn't look like it was dragging, but it was.

Sigh. More money out the door right before Christmas.

Oh well, go there to get your car fixed. They do other work as well.

Breaking News

2008-12-10T17:18:00.001-06:00

Jury deliberating in Rusk County murder case

LADYSMITH - A 56-year-old Ladysmith man was found guilty Wednesday of first-degree murder in a 1979 killing.

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Shovel This, Shovel That

2008-12-09T11:06:00.002-06:00

You know, I was amazed the schools weren't out today. It took me an hour to shovel my driveway. I haven't even finished the sidewalk yet, I just made a path that people can take without slipping. All my kids were late for school. I wish they just called it off and had a snow day then my kids could have helped me shovel.

There's a $99.00 electric snow shovel/blower at amazon.com that I might get. It has a lot of great reviews, but I'm wondering if it's too low power for what I need?

I would just get a snow pusher but every time that darn snow plow goes by it leaves a huge pile right in my driveway and I don't think a pusher can handle it.

Anything beats a $20 shovel though. After this message I'm going to go hop into the bath and get nice and toasty.

Christmas Parade in Chippewa Tonight

2008-12-06T11:59:00.002-06:00

I can't imagine standing outside for the Christmas parade and it baffles me why every year they have it on the first weekend in December because every year since I've been here it is always deathly cold. Perhaps that is part of the tradition?

It's my ex's weekend to have the kids so I suggested they go sit at the coffee shop if they go. We did that two years ago and it was a pretty decent spot. This year I'm working so I won't be going, but after shoveling that snow this morning I'm more than happy to sit by my electric fireplace and keep cozy while working at my job.

Have fun tonight. The festivities start at 6 pm with deer petting from 3 to 5 in the parking lot across from the Salvation Army.

MySpace and Kids

2008-12-05T14:22:00.001-06:00

Parents, have you checked your child's MySpace page lately? I have a son who has a page and I constantly need to tell him to tone it down.

Seriously - they're reporting everything in there and it doesn't look good. They talk about sex, getting high, drinking, smoking, etc. I suggest you take a peek at the pages and make sure that your son or daughter isn't getting into trouble.

Do you want to participate here?

2008-12-03T11:32:00.004-06:00

Send your email address to me by clicking here. I will set you up in the system to post your reviews, info, etc. If you are a business then you can post your business information as well. It's all free :)

You can also use the address if you want to be a contributing author. Just send the message and let me know if you want to regularly post to the board. Edits will be done for grammar but not for content. Swearing is not allowed. Reviews can be positive or negative, but please show some class.

People are not paid to place reviews nor are they charged to put advertisement posts or jobs. Contributing authors are allowed to post their home page link as long as it is not considered obscene.

Remember, this is a community blog open to members for posting and the public for reading. Do not post anything that will get you sued. Do not harass others. The only one who will see your email is me and I will keep that confidential. You will not be put on any lists or anything odd. It is only used for your login to this page.

If you do not wish to be a member you can send your post to us at this address. The Subject line will be the subject of the post and the body is the body of the blog. It may take up to 48 hours to be approved.

My New Crackling Fireplace from Farm and Fleeet

2008-12-03T11:19:00.005-06:00

Okay, it doesn't crackle, but it does heat up the living room and the dining room a bit and it looks really pretty. It wasn't cheap but it was either put $260 into the oil tank and wait another week before the oil company decides to come here (because as previously stated you have to WAIT until you DRIVE over to their place and give them cash because they are RUDE to their customers even when you're a GOOD customer with credit WAITING to be SPENT there) or get a heater that is efficient, looks nice, and keeps my kids warm.

Hmm...I wonder what I should do.

Anyway, it's a lovely machine. As soon as I get the room setup how I want to be setup I will take a picture. It's quite comforting to look at and if I can ever find one of those candles that smell like a fireplace and have the crackling wooden wicks then I would love to put it on the mantel.

I bought it at Farm and Fleet in Chippewa Falls and I have to say the customer service there was great. The guy who loaded it for me had a lot of patience while we attempted to put it in my Mazda MX-6. ha ha A dear friend of mine let me borrow her van and I went back to pick it up.

You know what is funny, I always thought Farm and Fleet had just farming supplies and feed. I had no idea they had designer name clothes. I found Vans and supposedly there is Liz Claiborne there too. I will have to go back when I have some money to spend and have some fun shopping. :)

We all know that I'm not a hunter and I proved it when I went to get my fireplace. I was looking at this really tall thing that looked to me like a ski lift or some winter work equipment. It didn't dawn on me until I went into Gordy's Hardware Hank (is it still hardware hank?) and found something similar in the hunting section. Duh!

The fireplace looks a lot like the one pictured below, but it is a smaller model.

I Hate Oil Companies

2008-11-26T15:44:00.005-06:00

I guess the new policy is to either pay up front with cash or give them a credit card. So, here I am sitting here is a 50 degree house during the day hoping that I can schedule an appointment for next week so my children do not need to wait yet another week to get heat. We've been huddled in the family room and kitchen where the oven and space heater are. I have ugly thick vinyl on the windows and where the rooms separate because my landlord thinks the cold problems in the house are due to the house being old.

I have about $114 at the oil company right now so a minimum fill would cost me a little over $300.00. Fine. I will have that on Monday but I would like to just SCHEDULE an appointment so they can be here when I have the cash. Can I do that?

NO.

I have to wait until I have the cash next week so my kids will be freezing because these stupid jerks will not schedule and it will take another week to schedule the appointment once I get the cash. I could have had them come out on Monday and if I didn't have the cash then they could have used that for someone else.

Is it THAT hard? Have I EVER ripped them off? No. I've never stiffed them for the bill or anything. Yet still my kids and I are punished because some moron did?

Am I angry? YES. I'm about to go tell the oil company River Country Co-Op - the one doing this - to go do something else with their oil and I'll go all electric if possible. Unfortunately this stupid house is so drafty that oil is going to be the only way to go.

Yes, I'm tempted to just move back home to California where I don't need to heat my house in the frigid winter.

I might just take the $114 and put it into another oil company but I hear they're all like that now.

Sad too, my family money is invested into oil too. I'll make sure to invest it into other sources of heat when I get the money in a few years. It's invested in West coast companies right now and I'll be sure not to invest it here.

Deer Season Opens

2008-11-25T10:11:00.001-06:00

Must you put the pictures of the dead carcasses on the front of the paper?

I don't hunt. I don't care if others do, but I don't want to see it. Why do I have to see pictures of bloody deer when I pop open the website? If I wanted to see that I could go watch a horror movie where I know it isn't real.

Yuck.

Have fun hunting.

No School Wed, Thu, Fri

2008-11-25T10:08:00.003-06:00

Oh man and I thought I had it easy this week. The kids are out Wednesday, Thursday, AND Friday? When I went to school we only had Thursday and Friday.

What I don't get is why they let the kids out for 3 days when everyone else has to work for at least 2 of those days. Come on, that's not fair. People have to find day care and such. Well, not me because I work from home, but it's not fair to others. Can't we just make it a two vacation day week again?

I guess I should be happy because here they would make the excuse to let the kids out all week for hunting.

Impressed with Taco John's Today

2008-11-24T16:02:00.003-06:00

Yes, I know. I can be a real snob when it comes to service. Today I went to Taco John's to pick up some tacos for my son. I guess this week is six pack and a pound for $6.99. The 6 tacos he wanted would have cost about the same so instead of just letting me order what I originally wanted the lady at Taco John's informed me about their special.

Normally this wouldn't happen. I know if i went to McDonald's they would never go for it. They would just let me carry on and not give the offering.

Kudos for Taco Johns.

Don't Forget Your Stimulus Check

2008-11-24T10:44:00.002-06:00

Chippewa Valley residents can check

http://chippewa.com/articles/2008/11/24/news/doc4928ba3618603691662805.txt

to find out if they're owed money from the IRS.

Wendy's Burgers

2008-11-22T14:56:00.002-06:00

I remember eating at Wendy's and their burgers had some substance. The other day I went to the Wendy's in Chippewa Falls and had a single jr. bacon cheeseburger from the dollar menu and it was all bun. You couldn't even taste the bacon or the burger.

Remember late start

2008-11-19T07:45:00.001-06:00

Don't forget that it's a late start day for the kids. I forgot. Sigh. My son quickly reminded me then went back to sleep. Now I'm wide awake.

Try ShopWiki.com to Compare Products for Christmas

2008-11-19T01:32:00.001-06:00

My kids are begging me for an Xbox 360 for Christmas. I'm not the biggest Microsoft fan in the world so I needed to look a little deeper into the features of the machine. I was able to find a lot of information about the Xbox 360 here at ShopWiki.com.

I was impressed with all the information included on the page. It covers good and bad reasons why to buy the machine as well as reviews. If you need any accessories then it will not be difficult to look for more information on the page as they are listed at the bottom with very nice pictures.

Will I buy one? Probably not as I'm still not convinced it is what the kids need, but I was pleased to find the reviews on musical equipment.

My son is an excellent musician who has been looking for a new bass. He's outgrown the cheap one I bought him and now he is ready for a real nice one. As I don't know a lot about bass guitars I need to turn to a source that will give me information that I need. Tonight I found several base guitars that I am seriously thinking about buying my son. All I needed to do was a search for bass guitar and this page appeared. I can sort by price which makes my shopping much easier. In fact, my sister is looking for an acoustic guitar for a member of her family so I might just send her the site as well.

So, if you're shopping this year and for some reason you can't find what you want in Chippewa Falls or you haven't decided on that major purchase, I would check out the site to narrow down your choices. You might be pleasantly surprised at what you find out there.

The China Buffet Chippewa Falls

2008-11-19T01:07:00.002-06:00

The family recently brought my son to The China Buffet in Chippewa Falls. As usual, the service was nice and friendly. The atmosphere was decent and the food was good. It didn't taste old and the buffet trays were swapped constantly. The only issue I had was the naming of the dishes. None of the tags actually matched the dishes. It was okay because I can make out the food selections, but my son had a really hard time deciding what to have. he eventually made it pretty good by finishing three plates of food and eating cake afterwards.

I'd say he wasn't disappointed.

They're still calling their chow mein lo mein because that is what people do here in the Midwest. I've grown used to it. The noodles aren't the same anyway, but I can't find what I'm used to in San Francisco anyway. Someday :)

The China Buffet can be found at the shopping center in Chippewa Falls right next to the Micon 8 movie theater. The movie theater isn't hard to miss.

I've been away for awhile

2008-11-19T01:01:00.003-06:00

I had some things to take care of but now I'm back and ready to report about the Chippewa Valley. It's been cold--way too cold. I'd love to get some heating oil but I just can't afford it right now :( So here I sit blogging like mad to get some oil in the tank. lol stay tuned for more posts.

Breaking News

2008-11-16T16:23:00.001-06:00

Husband to face charges in ex-wife's death

Jackson County Sheriff Duane Waldera during the press conference.

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New MySpace Page

2008-07-16T22:13:00.001-05:00

Chippewa Falls Wisconsin MySpace Page Click Here

Come be our friend!

New Auction Site

2007-10-06T08:50:00.000-05:00

I've put up an auction blog where I'm auctioning off items and saving 10% of all sales for birthdays for disadvantaged kids. Check it out at:

http://crapinmyhouse.blogspot.com.

Papa Murphy's Chippewa Falls

2007-10-05T17:52:00.000-05:00

I absolutely love Papa Murphy's in Chippewa Falls. Each time I go in the order is perfect and the people are so nice. I really recommend going there and getting one of their yummy pizzas. Don't go to dine in. If you're not familiar with Papa Murphy's you'll find out that you take the pizza home and bake it.

Poll Results: Are you happy with the wages in the Chippewa Valley

2007-10-02T11:23:00.000-05:00

Looks like we need to raise some salaries here:

Are you happy with the wages in the Chippewa Valley

yes

2 (11%)

no

15 (88%)

I've also extended the poll for a later date.

Programmer Analyst

2007-10-02T07:41:00.000-05:00

http://eauclaire.craigslist.org/sad/436858881.html

Job Duties:
• Evaluates user request for new or modified computer program to determine feasibility, cost and time required, compatibility with current system, and computer capabilities.
• Consults with user to identify current operating procedures and clarify program objectives.
• Reads manuals, periodicals, and technical reports to learn ways to develop programs that meet user requirements.
• Formulates plan outlining steps required to develop program and submits plan to user for approval.
• Prepares flowcharts and diagrams to illustrate sequence of steps program must follow and to describe logical operations involved.
• Designs computer terminal screen displays to accomplish goals of user request.
• Converts project specifications into sequence of detailed instructions and logical steps for coding into language processable by computer.
• Enters program codes into computer system. Enters commands into computer to run and test program.
• Reads computer printouts or observes display screen to detect syntax or logic errors during program test, or uses diagnostic software to detect errors.
• Replaces, deletes, or modifies codes to correct errors.
• Analyzes, reviews, and alters program to increase operating efficiency or adapt to new requirements.
• Writes documentation to describe program development, logic, coding, and corrections.
• Writes manual for users describing installation and operating procedures. Assists users to solve operating problems.
• Recreates steps taken by user to locate source of problem and rewrites program to correct errors.
• Trains users on program and provides technical assistance.
• Installs and tests program at user site. Monitors performance of program after implementation.

Job Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree in Computer Science or related field.
• Knowledge of Access, XML, Java, ODBC Languages, Net programming.

About Systems Seminar Consultants:
Systems Seminar Consultants, Inc provides placement services to our training and consulting clients. As a placement company, our unique size allows us to provide a personalized approach to recruiting and staffing. We will work with you every step of the way providing insight and assistance to give you that extra advantage to secure the job of your dreams.

To apply, send resume to careers@sys-seminar.com
or call one of our recruiters at (608) 278-9964.

Quality Technician

2007-10-02T07:39:00.000-05:00

http://eauclaire.craigslist.org/sci/437369689.html

Key Responsibilities of the Position
• Complete dimensional, visual and functional lot release on incoming and outgoing product in accordance with sampling plans and take action in accordance to documented procedures when potential quality problems are identified
• Analytical testing, includes testing to determine % Solids utilizing gravimetric methods.
• Utilizing aseptic techniques to avoid contamination of in-process materials.
• Utilizes precision pipettes, graduated cylinders, and other types of basic lab equipment to precisely measure fluids for testing/solution preparation.
• Chemistry lab practices for preparation of hazardous, volatile solutions in a fume hood environment.
• Control and properly document non-conforming product
• Coordinate, perform and maintain PPC calibration procedures
• Provide quality systems training and assistance to PPC employees in quality decisions and measurement techniques
• Complete capability studies and gage R&R analysis
• Prepare appropriate inspection records and measurement reports
• Identify and recommend continual improvement opportunities for quality systems
• Keep work area clean.
• Report incidents and injuries to team leader/manager immediately.
• Recognize close-call incidents and safety hazards and take action to eliminate them.
• Use equipment properly and follow the safety features/operating procedures.
• Wear applicable personal protective equipment.
• Follow applicable safety, quality, and environmental programs, policies, and procedures.
• Actively participate in continual improvement, corrective action, and customer satisfaction.

Required Qualifications

Education / Experience
• Technical degree in related field, or equivalent mix of education and experience.
• Entry level/college level Chemistry Lab Experience is preferred.
• Familiar with FTIR and Fluorospectrometer analyzers preferred.
• 2-3 years quality related experience

Skills / Competencies
• ASQ certification or equivalent experience (CQT)
• Knowledge and experience working in a cGMP environment.
• Strong written, verbal, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Basic computer literacy.
• Ability to read and interpret blue prints.
• Ability to apply SPC (Statistical Process Control)
• Can not be color blind; must be able to distinguish different colors

Taco Johns Revisited

2007-10-02T07:34:00.001-05:00

At the very professional request of Taco John's I went back to try another item on the menu. This time I selected their burrito, without the potatoes. The lunch was very good and they remembered my guacamole. I'd go back again. I still wouldn't order a burrito with potatoes in it, but for those who like them, all the more to you.

KMart Customer Service

2007-09-26T12:58:00.000-05:00

The closest store we have to a department store here is the KMart in Chippewa Falls. I went there to find bird seed the other day for my cockatiels and picked up one that was 40% off. After going through the register and then realizing that I didn't get the 40%, I went to the customer service counter where a woman was waiting in front of me. I guess they were short clerks and the one they called wasn't showing up so the manager came up and started helping those who were supposed to go to the next line even though they showed up way after me. It was extremely annoyed.

The woman in front of me was taking forever so the whole wait wasn't worth the amount and I just left. I wasn't happy. It happened the same day I gave my burrito to my son and went without dinner that night. lol

I used to not complain about such things but I've found that people are getting more rude by the year. I'm just not going to put up with it any longer.

I don't really blame KMart because the poor guy was just blasted by all the hungry shoppers that day. He could have asked if I was waiting in line for an actual customer service issue instead of shopping though. The problem I had were with the rude women who just clamored at the desk to get their things purchased. How rude they were.

Operations Supervisor in Eau Claire

2007-09-26T12:53:00.001-05:00

Barnes and Noble is hiring an Operations Supervisor for their college bookstore. The ad claims to be in Eau Claire. I wasn't even aware the was a Barnes and Noble in Eau Claire. I used to love going to the one in California.

Apply for it here.

Taco John's in Chippewa Falls

2007-09-24T18:27:00.001-05:00

I should have figured something was wrong with a place when they offered tater tots with Mexican food. UGH

I accidentally ordered the wrong thing because their menu isn't very clear. I got some gross meat and potato burrito. What's worse? The last time we went they forgot my guacamole. So, this time he told me he'd give me a freebie guac on the side. We get home. There's no guacamole AGAIN.

So, I won't be going there again. Just like the McDonalds here, I've had it. There's two places I won't return to because every time I go they never get the order right. They offered to correct it but I didn't get it. I think you might remember the Chippewa Falls McDonald's saga. After messing up my order I sent them a letter and whoever wrote back to total defense and was extremely RUDE about the whole thing and didn't even offer to make amends.

Now Wendy's is a place I'll go back to. When the lettuce in my salad at Wendy's was a little icky looking and I didn't notice until I got home they sent me a coupon to exchange the salad without even asking me to come back. That's service and that's where I'll go from now on.

Now it's too late for me to go get dinner and I'm not eating that gross meat and potato burrito. I mean, I admit to accidentally ordering it, but they should really fix their menu so it's easier to read.

School Software Consultant

2007-09-22T08:53:00.001-05:00

CESA is hiring a school software consultant. I have no idea what the pay is. For more information, click here.

Traffic and Speeding on N aka Elm Street

2007-09-20T17:15:00.000-05:00

I live on Elm Street so I'm no stranger to the horrible traffic. I really worry about kids around the neighborhood because people drive so fast it's terrible.

Would you folks please learn how to slow down? Just because the speed limit increases to 55 down the road doesn't mean you can travel at that speed before then. It's still a residential area.

CarQuest is hiring a driver

2007-09-20T15:50:00.000-05:00

CarQuest in Eau Claire is hiring a driver. For details go here..

Technical Support Specialist

2007-09-20T15:45:00.000-05:00

BigDotOfHappiness.com in Menomonie is hiring a Technical Support Specialist. The list of qualifications is long and supposedly the job pays between $40K to $60K. It looks like more of an IT job than a Tech Support job though. What do I know? I've only worked in the industry for 20 years. For more information Go here.

The State's Alcholol Problem

2007-09-20T08:41:00.000-05:00

Well, this article in the Chippewa Herald is no surprise. When you have an average of two bars per block in each downtown area of each city and then some, I think we do have a real problem.

Perhaps it's trying to keep warm in the cold or maybe it's trying to stay trendy with your friends. Maybe it's boredom because there is nothing else to do. All I see are people wasting what little they make here and trying to drown their problems in a glass of booze.

Think about it, do we really need so many bars? In downtown Chippewa Falls alone, I can think of at least 4 bars within just a few blocks from each other and the the blocks aren't that long. Heck, we even have two neighborhood bars on either side of the hill.

So, I think they're right and it is a problem. Where to stop it? I have no clue. I stopped social drinking after I turned 21 because it was no longer fun to sneak into the bars. Unfortunately for many, it's not as easy.

Eau Claire Paying Its New Employee $92K While Cutting Other Jobs

2007-09-19T10:09:00.000-05:00

I don't get this. Eau Claire is cutting five jobs and opening two new ones, one of which pays almost $100,000 per year. Now, where I come from originally that is a good salary to pay an IT manager or programmer at a high tech company. I'm sure the government jobs pay a little less. In wisconsin we pay our IT people are ridiculously low $14.00 per hour or less and a the manager a few dollars more. I wonder how many $15.00 per hour IT jobs and others they will close to support this $100,000 per year position?

They claim they're going to take it out of the property taxes so whenever this guy gets a raise either your tax might go up or someone else gets fired because how can the County pay someone that much when the wages for others are so low? In order to raise money for government officials you must raise taxes somewhere because that's where the pay comes from.

So, those who make very little don't have to pay into the state or federal system except with their blood, sweat and tears. Then the ones in the middle must take the burden because they don't have a lot of write-offs. The wealthy also need to pay, and they do pay a lot, but it doesn't hurt them as much as it hurts the little guy like me.

It's no wonder why there are so many people not making it here and going to the State for money. Get more and better jobs people. We all can't feed cows and work at restaurants all our lives. We need tech jobs, and I don't just mean industrial tech jobs. I mean real tech jobs like the way it used to be with Celestica, Silicon Graphics and Cray. California and Texas gives them great candidates who study other things than agriculture and they get tax deductions for doing certain things. As far as I'm concerned, Doyle chased them right out with his proposals. Bring the tech companies back and bring back good paying jobs like the person in the article will get and you'll get your high paying tax base back and companies will make more money by investments. It's common sense.

Read about the new job here.

Telecommunications Field Tech

2007-09-19T09:54:00.001-05:00

Shawntech is hiring a Telecommunications Field Tech in Eau Claire. Interested? Visit their website here.

Bridge St. Station

2007-09-19T00:24:00.000-05:00

There's a new diner in town and its good. Actually, I haven't been fortunate enough to go there myself, but I do know people who work there and eat there. Rumor has it the place is pretty darn good. I know they smell good because whenever I pass by I want to stop and eat. I'll review it when I get the chance to afford it.

Some people are a little wary of the prices, but who wouldn't be when the wages in town are so low. Don't complain to the restaurants, complain to your boss!

Bridge Street Station
212 N. Bridge St.
Chippewa Falls, WI

Chippewa Ford Closing

2007-09-18T23:53:00.000-05:00

Okay, so I'm kind of annoyed at the local Ford company. I don't drive a Ford so it has nothing to do about the car. What annoys the heck out of me is why did this company close down without selling the company and offering the 40 or so employees jobs? It's not like we have an abundance of jobs in the area.

A Chippewa Falls Vacation Video by Bob & Lisa

2007-09-16T13:10:00.000-05:00

The Chippewa Herald

2007-09-16T12:55:00.000-05:00

The Chippewa Herald is the local paper for Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. For more information visit www.chippewa.com

Garage Sale on Locust Lane

2007-09-16T12:18:00.000-05:00

NEW ITEMS OUT TODAY...
Open Today-Tomorrow - 8am to 5pm... 3612 Locust Lane (near UBC & Presto)

IF IT'S NOT MARKED it's a quarter!!

* Baseball Cards (Two HUGE books - a couple of Long Boxes - LOTS of LOOSE
cards... MAKE AN OFFER - I just want to get rid of them!!)
* Engine Blocks ($150 for 2 of them, one on an engine stand)
* Tools - $5 to $20 ... loose tools 25 cents each or 5 for a buck!!
* 3 yr old great 35 MM Camera w/ batteries & Film
* Boy PREEMIE CLOTHES (some neutral)
* Fisher Price Jungle Climber w/ slide (OUTDOOR TOY) (interested parties
never came through) $100
OBO
* Fisher Price Wave Climber w/ slide (OUTDOOR TOY) $65
* Bouncing Horse Toy $30
* Few Baby Items
* CHILDRENS BOOKS
* Clothes Infant to size 8/10 and adult (size 16 to XXL) and such (A lot of
18m to 3T)
(not really marked - 25 cents each unless otherwise marked - added to MORE
AND
MORE)
* House Hold Stuff (Mugs out now, more being added through the day)
* Umbrella Stroller never used $5
* Knick Knacks ...
* Wedding Cake Topper
* Bride Groom Glass
* Baskets with Fake Flowers for Decoration
* FISHER PRICE LITTLE PEOPLE TOYS (More added later today)
* TUG BOAT SAND BOX (on hold)

If it's not marked, make an offer... No reasonable offer refused -
everything must go (or it's being donated) ... New stuff out each day...
Today is the last day until Next Weekend - and then it'll be a HUGE Sale!!

Home Coming Moved at Chippewa Falls High School

2007-09-16T10:59:00.000-05:00

The Homecoming Game is moved to Friday, September 21, 2007. The dance is now moved now September 22, 2007. These events have placed the Homecoming Week to September 17 to September 20, 2007.

More information available at http://cfsd.chipfalls.k12.wi.us/

Teller at RCU

2007-09-16T10:44:00.002-05:00

RCU is looking for a Teller. Click here for the post.

RN Wellness Director

2007-09-16T10:44:00.001-05:00

Wissota Springs needs and RN Wellness Director. Click here for the post.

CESA 10 Needs School Psychologists

2007-09-16T10:43:00.001-05:00

click here for the job listing

St. Joseph's Hospital Hiring a Pharmacist

2007-09-16T10:40:00.000-05:00

Click here for the job

REM by Amanda Steiger

2007-09-16T10:34:00.001-05:00

REM by Amanda Steiger
Originally uploaded by chippewapublishing

Available at Chippewa Publishing

Rem by Amanda Steiger

When Sophie finds a broken, abandoned android in the city dump and takes him home to repair him, she is amazed at how life-like, how human he seems. His name is Rem. His programming is the most sophisticated she has ever encountered.

Why, Sophie wonders, would anyone abandon such a remarkable android?

Hungry for answers, she probes deeper into Rem's past and unearths a sordid history of abuse, betrayal and unlikely love. Against her better judgment, Sophie finds herself falling in love with Rem. When his old owner appears and tries to reclaim him, she is unwilling to give him up.

Unique among androids, Rem has the power to choose…and soon, he will have to make the most painful and difficult choice he has ever faced.

-- EXCERPT --

In her basement workshop, she laid the android on a padded table. She adjusted the bright overhead lamps and examined his damaged right eye. A spider-web of fine cracks covered the entire surface. It would need replacing. No problem, she had plenty of spares. Carefully, she cut the eye out of the socket and slid a new one into place, inserting the optic wire into the small hole in back. The color wasn't an exact match, but it was close enough that no one would be able to tell from a distance.

She wondered how he'd gotten so badly damaged. Could be that he'd just gotten old and worn out, his owners had thrown him away, then some punks had found him and trashed him for the fun of it. "Sick bastards," she muttered. Lightly, she touched the android's cheek. Though cool, it was as smooth and yielding as real skin. "Never mind. Pretty soon, you'll be as good as new."

It took a while to clean the gunk out of the deep gash in his stomach. She scraped away the worst of it with a chisel and wiped the exposed cables with a damp cloth, careful not to further damage the frayed and severed wires. That done, she took her toolkit from underneath the table, opened it, and got out a set of magnifying goggles, which she strapped onto her face and switched to the times-100 setting. She picked up a slender, pen-sized fuser and went to work.

When she finally took off the goggles and glanced at the old, battered digital clock on her wall, she was not really surprised to see that four hours had passed. Time always slipped by when she was working. She took a few minutes to get some instant soup from the kitchen before returning to her workshop, sliding the goggles back into place.

Another four hours later, she leaned back, wiped the sweat from her brow, and studied her handiwork. Not bad. All the superficial damage had been repaired. Now, all that remained was to see how much data had been left intact in his CPU. Unless his previous owner had flushed his brain before throwing him out, he might still have his old memories. A little chill of excitement ran up her spine.

Cover art by: Stella Price

Edited by: Jana J. Hanson

Proofed by: Marge Conrad

Genre: Sci-Fi

Rating: General

Word count: 6,600 words

Chippewa Falls Pure Water Days & Heritage Fun Fest 2007

2007-08-01T08:48:00.000-05:00

Chippewa Falls Pure Water Days & Heritage Fun Fest a YouTube video starring Jim Schuh

Iced Coffee and Internet Service

2007-07-16T10:37:00.000-05:00

The other day I needed to get some work done and my son wouldn’t keep still so I brought him to the 4:30 am coffee house on Bridge Street.

I used to drive through almost every morning and buy coffee, but since I’ve been writing from home I haven’t needed to. Well, their coffee is just as good inside as it is on the run.

The Internet service was easy to access. It wasn’t the fastest in the world, but this is a problem with their provider and not the coffee shop itself.

One reason why I enjoy going to 4:30 am as opposed to other places is because it’s more homey and has a friendlier atmosphere. It’s almost boutique like with the items for sale around the shop and the management and employees are always friendly to chat with.

I recommend visiting here for coffee while either on the run on sitting in.

Visit the 4:30 AM Coffee House at

608 N Bridge St
Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
(715) 720-6165

The Fill Inn Station

2007-05-16T11:22:00.000-05:00

The Fill Inn Station is a family owned restaurant carrying homemade pizzas, homemade beer battered cheese curds, homemade soup and many more delicious dishes.

104 West Columbia Street
Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
715-723-8282
715-723-6551
www.fillinnstation.com

Chippewa Falls Public Library

2007-04-16T11:04:00.000-05:00

The Chippewa Falls Public Library is located at

Chippewa Falls Public Library
105 W. Central Street
Chippewa Falls, WI 54729
715-723-1146

The library supports both winter and summer hours. For more information on the hours, please check the website at http://www.chippewafallslibrary.org/

Chippewa Publishing LLC

2007-02-16T11:32:00.000-06:00

Chippewa Publishing is an ebook publisher located in Chippewa Falls, Wisconsin. Purchase books at www.chippewapublishing.com. To submit to our company please click on the submissions link.

What is this place?

2006-01-01T11:08:00.000-06:00

I like a sense of community so I've created this blog to bring information about our community. Please feel free to browse the site and make comments.

We're looking for contributors!

If you post job ads, reviews, entertainment for your social group, school announcements, etc, then we're looking for you! Let us know you're interested by sending an email to chippewapub@mac.com and we'll get back to you with the details. All posts must be family friendly.

You must use a google account to contribute. This can be your own google account or a new one. All content on your google account must not be illegal or sexual in nature.

Posting to the service is free. You are allowed to post the address of your company and the url to the website. Please do not post the same information over and over again. Your company can be listed in the Directory by placing Directory in the Label field on posting. Please be careful when place information in this field as it creates a menu. We will move the label to the appropriate place if it is incorrectly placed.

We reserve the right to edit for spelling, grammar, and content. All material submitted is the copyright of the respective owner or company.

We visit places around the community and write random reviews about dining, movies, entertainment, and businesses. If you would like us to write a review about your business or place of entertainment, please send an email to the address above and we can discuss details.

The Chippewa Valley Blog