Amery Free Press February 4, 2020

AMERY

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 4, 2020 VOL. 123 NO. 36 www.theameryfreepress.com $1.00

Few answers available yet for library

A plea for closure BY APRIL ZIEMER EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

BY APRIL ZIEMER EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

“We do not have a pot of money.” That was the final response from Alderman Tim Strohbusch when banter went back and forth between him and a community member who had questions concerning the cost of remodeling the current Bremer Bank to house City Hall, the Amery Public Library and police department. A group of people who wanted their questions and concerns heard showed up at the Tuesday Jan. 28 meeting of the Finance Committee at City Hall. They were asked to approach the podium, state their name and keep comments to two minutes or less. The first to approach council members was Shannon Schacht “I was shocked at this proposal. Amery is a gem. We have a wonderful community. I am not doing this to criticize, but to take something that is so monumental and wonderful and diminish it? You don’t build something up that is this magnificent and supportive of every level of people that live here; rich, young, old, in between, handicap-you name it. What we are about is serving our community. Why would I build a beautiful house that took me years to build and dedicated resources from neighbors and I say, ‘OK now we are going to move to an adequate house and spend almost equally as much?’” She said she is concerned about the age of the Bremer building, parking and handicap access. “I really, really want you to reconsider. We need to put our money where the jewels are and the library is a stellar jewel. Why wreck something if it isn’t broke? If you think this is something we SEE LIBRARY, PAGE 8

SEE SMITH, PAGE 8

SEE COLD CASE, PAGE 2

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Mac Smith of the 100-point club is shown with L-R: parents Jessica and Kevin Smith, grandparents Lyle and Diane Lauritsen and cousin Kylie Hansen.

And then there were eight BY APRIL ZIEMER EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

Hustle and heart has led McAdam (Mac) Smith into the small group of Amery Warrior hockey players who have reached the 100-point mark. He joins teammates Jackson Henningsgard and Grady Martin, along with what some might now call the O.Gs (a slang term for originals) Ryan Humpal, Matt Mullendore, Tanner Tryggestad, Kyle Schultz and Jake Mullendore. Mac looks at his induction into 100 Club as a bonus. He said, “I did not set the 100 points as a goal. My goal was to win games and hopefully go to State. As far as the 100 points I thought, ‘If it happened it happened.” It happened January 25 during an

WD The The Law Firm of Williams and Davis

away win over Black River Falls. Smith achieved his accomplishment during the third period, and by the end the Amery Warriors had defeated the Tigers 5-3. Mac said he started skating around the age of three or four and like his older brother, Camden, played hockey ever since. Their father, Kevin played hockey in Amery as well. He hung up his skates as a Warrior player after graduating in 1987, but continued to be a to be a familiar face in various roles around the rink. Mac said he grew up watching older kids like Jake Mullendore and Kyle Schultz and hoped to be like them someday. Now he shares a spot in an elite group with the two of them.

“I still have hope. I just wish the driver would come forward. Maybe his life would change too. It is hard to forget when you can’t find who to forgive,” said Georgia Cobenais in a video released January 31 by the Polk County Sheriff’s Department. The video was part of a press conference that was a joint effort between the Polk County Sheriff’s Department, the Tribal Police and the families of Ben Juarez and Rick Cobenais. Polk County Sherriff, Brent Waak, said the goal Friday was to revisit an unsolved case that affected Polk County and the Round Lake Community on January 11, 2014; the hit and Cobenais run, double fatality that took the lives of Juarez and Cobenais. Friends and family of both victims gathered inside and outside of the press conference room where information was shared in hopes of keeping details Juarez fresh in people’s minds. Those coordinating the event are hopeful that by sharing the story Friday afternoon, the details will spread both online and through media outlets to help solve the case. “We are asking for a plea for some humanity today and that somebody come forward with some information on who did this,” said Waak. The video shared with those in attendance featured Georgia, Rick’s widow who witnessed the incident and the chilling 911 call she made after the men were stricken and killed by a truck.

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COLD CASE: Law enforcement hopes those responsible will do the right thing CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

According to the video, witnesses said Rick Cobenais, concerned over Ben Juarez’s ability to drive, took his car keys. An altercation ensued that spilled into the traffic lanes of County Road E. A truck approached from the north and hit them. Evidence at the scene and witness statements indicated that after striking the pair, the truck stopped. The driver and a front passenger exited the vehicle and began to approach the scene before abruptly running back to the vehicle and fleeing to the south. Law enforcement, the families of the victims and the entire Round Lake Community are haunted by two spine-tingling questions, “Who were the subjects in the truck and why did they leave?” Tribal police chief Frank Taylor said, “These two families have wanted answers as to who is responsible for this tragic event that took Rick and Ben away from them.” He said the victims were part of the Round Lake community that has not had time to heal properly knowing the persons responsible are still out there. “It’s time for those who are responsible to do the right thing and restore the faith back in humanity. It’s time to honor those families who are grieving daily about their loss and help them find closure. For the driver who did this, it is time for you to come to reason and lift the guilt that has been with you for the past six years,” said Taylor. He feels expressed closure is necessary for the families affected and for the ones responsible. He said, “It cannot be easy to carry the shame and guilt for so many years. It can’t be easy to know you are the one responsible for causing so much pain. It is time to end that and come forward.” Cobenais was 41 at the time of his death. He was described as a father, a grandfather and a respected member of the community who loved every second he lived. Juarez was 27 and known for his

APRIL ZIEMER | AMERY FREE PRESS

Tribal Chief Frank Taylor, Polk County Sherriff, Brent Waak and members of the Juarez and Cobenais families gathered in hopes new leads will be generated to solve the case of the deaths of Ben Juarez and Rick Cobenais.

APRIL ZIEMER | AMERY FREE PRESS

Thomas Fowler is hopeful he can forgive the individuals who fled the scene after his father, Rick Cobenais, was run over. First though, he needs to know who these individuals are.

APRIL ZIEMER | AMERY FREE PRESS

APRIL ZIEMER | AMERY FREE PRESS

Georgia Cobenais is shown with her grandson during the Polk County press conference where information about the death of her husband, Rick, was revisited.

Shirley Juarez, with support of a family member, makes a plea for the public to come forward with information regarding the 2014 incident that took the life of her grandson, Ben.

work ethic, his smile, his ability to fix things and the kindness he showed everyone. The video expresses the heartache family members constantly feel. Shirley Juarez, Ben’s grandmother who raised him said, “I think about him all of the time. What would he be doing now? I miss him a lot. He was my baby.” Georgia and Shirley have heavy hearts but they admit closure is possible if only they knew who was responsi-

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ble and why they left. Without knowing they fear they will never truly be free. Georgia said, “I don’t know why things happen the way they happen, but I hope at some point I could learn to forgive them. If the show were on the other foot, would they want me to stop?” The gravity of the situation is not lost on those still investigating the situation all these years later. Found at the scene were several pieces of the exterior of the vehicle, which match a dark-colored Ford truck. In the days after, law enforcement identified all of the Ford F150 and F250s in the surrounding area, which were approximately 1,700. “We do not have a license plate. It was dark and this was a horrific chaotic scene for the family when this happened. The eye witness accounts are very difficult because of the tragedy that was occurring,” said Waak. To date, more than 100 leads have been investigated. With each day, the trail gets colder but those who know the case best feel they are just one tip away from breaking things wide open. “We are not going to give up just because it has been six years. We are still going to go out and do what we need to do to bring resolution to this case and to the families,” said Taylor. Waak was a patrol sergeant at the time of the incident and was called to the scene, as was Taylor who sees the aftermath on a daily basis within his community. To both, the fact that the case remains unsolved is incomprehensible. “Six years removed from the actual date of this occurrence, but to the family members it happened yesterday. They want closure. They want answers,” said Taylor. “I never thought six years later we still would be searching for these answers. Whoever went through that area had no way to avoid this crash, but what is troubling is that they didn’t

stop, they didn’t render aid, they continued on leaving us with all these family members wanting closure. It is hard to say goodbye to your loved ones when you don’t have all those answers,” said Waak. Rick’s son, Thomas Fowler spoke at the conference. When speaking of the individuals who fled the scene six years ago he said, “I don’t hold grudges against them. As an Anishinaabe we are taught that forgiveness gives us peace, but I do not have anyone to forgive. My peace has been disrupted for five years.” He described how since the incident he has had anxiety over people walking and jogging on the local county roads. “There are two individuals out there who feel it is ok to run someone over and keep going. I need peace so I can move on with the rest of my life. I am ready to forgive these two individuals. Be a man. Do the right thing. I cannot keep reliving this,” he said. Shirley also expressed sadness at the conference that memorials have been placed for the two victims, but seem to get taken down. During Friday’s gathering, Georgia said she does recall a blue bin being in the back of the truck, but found a decent description of the individuals to be difficult because of the fact that they were wearing hats and it was so dark out. Waak is asking that if there were any witnesses that have not yet come forward, that they please do so. “Maybe there is one little detail they can provide to help us with this case,” he said. All those involved are hoping that by coming forward, the truth will also set the driver and passenger who drove away that night free and that it is never to late for everyone to move forward together. Shirley said, “It hurts me a lot that they can just be out walking around or working or having fun when my grandson is dead. I’m not angry anymore but I was at first. I can’t stay angry forever but it does hurt a lot.” A tip line has been set up. If you call the Polk County Sherriff’s Department at 715-485-8300, you will be directed to the tip line.

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HOW TO REACH US: Our offices are located at 215 Keller Ave. S. We are open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. every weekday. Call: (715) 268-8101 or fax at (715) 268-5300, or visit www.theameryfreepress.com. TO SUBSCRIBE: dstangl@theameryfreepress.com The Free Press is mailed to the homes of subscribers for delivery every Wednesday. One year subscription in Polk, Burnett, St. Croix and Barron Counties is available for $30, two years is $58. A subscription in Wisconsin and Minnesota is available for $35, two years is $68. Other states: $40, two years $78. Students: $20 for nine months, $25 one year. Service persons $25 per year. Online subscriptions are available starting at $5 per month.

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Stars honor influential educators Influential Educator Night for the Western WI Stars took place last week. Pictured L-R are: Hailey Yzermans, Mr. Bielmeier, Ally Dahlberg, Lauren Sobczak, Mrs. Rose, Maddie Johnson, Ms. Schmidt, Mackenzie Mike and Mrs. Moreau.

FEBRUARY 6 Preserving Our Roots: AIM’s Art Opening Join students from Amery Inquiring Minds (AIM) for this special evening on Thursday, February 6 from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Take a step back in time as you experience a student-created root cellar, view student art, watch candle making and cornhusk doll demonstrations, and listen to presentations. Light refreshments prepared by AIM students will be served. Free and open to the public. Organized by AIM & Farm Table.

FEBRUARY 7 Give Kids A Smile Day River Place Dental’s 8th Annual Give Kids A Smile Day will be held Friday, February 7 from 7:30 a.m. to 12 p.m. River Placed Dental will be providing free services to children ages 2-13 without dental insurance including: dental screenings, fluoride, sealants, fi llings, cleaning and x-rays. Services will be provided based on the child’s needs and time allowed. Call today to make an appointment. Space is limited, and they will be taking appointments on a “first come, first served” basis. 715-268-2103.

FEBRUARY 9 Polk County Sportsmen Club Community Appreciation Dinner The Polk County Sportsmen Club invites you to our Community Appreciation Dinner on Sunday, February 9, 2020 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at American Legion Post #278 in Balsam Lake. All are welcome!

FEBRUARY 16 Little Falls Lutheran Presidents’ Weekend Dinner Little Falls Lutheran Church, 1272 44th Avenue., Amery, will host their annual Presidents’ Weekend Dinner on Sunday, February 16 from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. On the menu: roast beef or pork, real mashed potatoes, veggies, cranberries, rolls, dessert and beverage. Freewill offering. Carry-outs available. 715-268-9409.

LaCour Piano Studio Student Recital LaCour Piano Studio will have a Stu-

dent Recital on Sunday, February 16 at 3 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, Amery.

FEBRUARY 17 Christian Women’s Connection Leap Year Luncheon Women are invited to “Leap Into Your Best Year” Luncheon on Monday, February 17, sponsored by River Valley Christian Women’s Connection. The 11:30 a.m. luncheon will be held at Alliance Church of the Valley, 1259 State Road 35, St. Croix Falls, WI. As we celebrate Leap Year, the special feature is The Frog Goes a Courting by Diane Harvey, O’Brien State Park. Colleen Dittmer will be the soloist. Inspirational speaker, Arlene Gabrielson’s message is titled “Happily Ever After (Hope for a Broken Heart)”. There is a fee. This is not a membership club, but a woman’s luncheon. We expect and welcome fi rst timers. The caterer will be serving the Volcano Meal. Some call it the Hay Stack. You’ll like it, but you must make your reservation by Tuesday, February 11 at noon by calling Shirley, 715-483-1216 or text her, 715-338-1473.

FEBRUARY 20 Historical Society Membership Meeting The Amery Area Historical Society will hold a Membership Meeting on Thursday, February 20 at 2 p.m. This meeting will begin with a Panel Presentation on Hospitals in Amery: The Past 100 Years. The Historical Society room is currently located in the lower level of the Amery Area Public Library.

Polk-Burnett Bee Keepers The Polk-Burnett Bee Keepers will be meeting on Thursday, February 20, 2020 at 7:00 p.m. at the Polk County Justice Center in Balsam Lake.

Savior’s Lutheran Church, Amery. Gail Olszewski, Piano. Gail is a resident of St. Paul who teaches at MacPhail Center in Minneapolis and formerly at UW–River Falls. Sponsored by LaCour Piano Studio and Our Savior’s Lutheran Church.

MARCH 24, 26, 28 AND APRIL 4 & 5 Learn to Hunt for Food: Wild Turkey Learn to hunt ethically for your own locally sourced meat, participate in a Wisconsin tradition and take part in conservation. Specifically for adults with no or limited experience. Go to https://gowild.wi.gov/customers/ stafetyedclass and choose “Hunt for Food.” Select “Polk” county. Click on the “search” icon and follow the prompts to register. Organized by WI DNR & Farm Table. Free, but RSVP required.

Northern Lights–Finnish Favorites Piano Recital Northern Lights–Finnish Favorites: A Recital of Piano Music by Finnish Composers of the 19th and 20th centuries will be on Sunday, March 1, 2020, 3 p.m. at Our

PLACING AN AD: phumpal@theameryfreepress.com classifieds@theameryfreepress.com Display advertising must be in the Free Press office by 12 p.m. Monday. An advertising representative will gladly assist you in preparing your message. The Tab ads must be in the office by 12 p.m. Friday. EVENTS: Send to editor@theameryfreepress.com or submit online at www.theameryfreepress.com. Tom Stangl, Publisher April Ziemer, Editor Pam Humpal, Advertising Manager Jamie Stewart, Classifieds Nicole Gagner, Production Manager Cathy Nelson, Graphic Design Diane Stangl, Circulation/Office The Amery Free Press (ISSN 107486898) is published weekly by Sentinel Publications, 215 Keller Ave. S., Amery, WI 54001. Periodicals postage paid at Amery, WI 54001. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the Amery Free Press, P.O. Box 424, Amery, WI 54001 Contents copyright. No reproduction without permission of publisher.

Active member

ONGOING Basketball for Youth and Families Open Gym for boys and girls grades 4-12. Families are encouraged to participate together. Younger children are welcome when accompanied by parents. Bring your own ball; enter through North doors. No fee. Sundays through March 15 from 1:303:30 p in the Middle School gym.

Open Gym for Families Open gyms are a chance for kids and families to bounce a ball, shoot some hoops, play catch or just run around and be active together. For families with children of all ages. Parents/Guardians must stay in the gym with the children. Select Sundays: Nov 17, Dec 1 & 15, Jan 5 & 19, Feb 2 & 16, Mar 1 from 1:30-3:30 p in the Intermediate School – enter through the doors facing the NORTH parking lot. No fee – just show up! Sponsored by PowerUp.

Pickleball – Open Gym

MARCH 1

NEWS ITEMS: editor@theameryfreepress.com Send by Monday at 12 p.m. to be considered for publication.

Join us on Wednesday nights to play the fastest growing recreational sport in the nation. Wednesdays through March (closed Nov 27, Dec 25 & Jan 1) from 6-8 p in the High School. No fee – just show up.

Share your event Mail your events to: Amery Free Press P.O. Box 424 Amery, WI 54001 You may also email items to editor@theameryfreepress. com, FAX items to 715-268-5300, deliver them in person to our office at 215 Keller Ave. S. in Amery, or submit the event online at www.theameryfreepress. com.

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FEBRUARY 4, 2020

Election season is here BY TOM STANGL FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK

T

he first votes in the nomination process that will determine the names on the ballot for the presidential election in November happened this week. The Iowa Caucuses were held Monday night and the New Hampshire primary is Feb. 11. These first two contests are meant to narrow the field of candidates as the primary season gets going. Minnesota voters get their say March 3, Wisconsin Publisher voters April 7. I lived in Iowa until eight years Tom Stangl ago, attending and reporting on several caucuses. I still find it amusing how the political class has more than a mild contempt for the “retail” politics that need to be practiced in Iowa and New Hampshire. “Retail” politics mean that candidates actually need to come to towns large and small, shake hands, look real people in the eye and answer questions. The conventional wisdom is this oneon-one campaigning allows voters to get the true measure of the candidates as well as an opportunity to hear directly their plans to address problems facing the nation. Having been there, I can tell you many of the politicians do a fairly good job with this style of campaigning. The ones who don’t do it well are the ones who either skip the state or spend money on ads. Others argue Iowa and New Hampshire aren’t diverse enough, aren’t representative of the makeup of the nation. I respectfully beg to differ. States like Iowa, New Hampshire, Minnesota and Wisconsin have hard working people who play by the rules, make sure their children get good educations and believe in the inherent goodness of our nation. While we may be a bit cynical, in the end if we believe you are a good person, there’s very little we won’t do when asked to do it. But we are far from being fools or bumpkins. I think this unnerves politicians the most when they are forced to look us in the eyes and speak the truth. It’s easier to look at a camera, it can’t take the measure of your words and actions. A camera won’t hold your eyes while you are talking. Michael Bloomberg (who got in the race late) is skipping Iowa and New Hampshire, opting to try and make an impact on Super Tuesday, March 3. In addition to Minnesota, voters in Alabama, Arkansas, California, Maine, Massachusetts, North Carolina, Oklahoma, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont and Virginia will hold primaries or caucuses. Bloomberg is spending millions of his own money on advertising in these states in hopes of getting the Democratic nomination. While I understand the strategy, I hope he doesn’t succeed. I have nothing against Bloomberg. But I believe he is shortchanging himself and rural America by making the conversation about the future a one-way dialog. In a few months, the political picture will become more focused as the two nominees are decided. We will (hopefully) get a small break before the conventions and the all-out war that will happen right up until November. It seems like we have been in campaign season since January, 2017. Hopefully, the nominees will remember the lessons learned from interacting with voters in small town America. They could do a lot worse. As always, I welcome your comments. You can reach me by email at tstangl@theameryfreepress.com, telephone 715-268-8101 or write me at P.O. Box 424, Amery, WI, 54001. Thanks for reading I’ll keep in touch. Feel free to do the same.

Teach your children well BY APRIL ZIEMER EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

W

e have all heard the saying, “When life hands you lemons, make lemonade.” Without even realizing, it seems that is exactly what I did last week after a particularly frustrating situation took place. I attended the City’s Finance Committee meeting Tuesday. It was not my original plan as I had a commitment with one of my children. A few people reached out to me throughout Editor the day to say April Ziemer a group was gathering at the meeting who were concerned over the city’s plans to move the library. They were attending in hopes to ask questions, share fears and voice suggestions. It sounded like it might be an event that should be covered for the paper, so I figured I could push back my plans an hour and attend. This column is not about whether or not I agree with the moving of the library. I honestly see the concerns of community members; likewise understand the vision of the city council. Attendees were given the chance to speak at the meeting. They were passionate about a library that they love and vocal about their need to be a part of decision making. Council members had questions and comments shot out to them left and right and I do not feel their seats were easy chairs to sit in that night. It was a tense discussion to be a part of and there were times that night where (to put it mildly) my blood was absolutely boiling over things that were said.

More than once the Free Press was accused of reporting certain information about the situation that was never reported in an article (the only information reported in the article announcing the city’s plans to move the library was given directly by officials at City Hall). It seems there has been some mass confusion over a Free Press article that was posted online and figures that were posted in a comment by a reader of the article. After an hour I knew I should get home to my child who was waiting. When library discussions were done being shared, I left the meeting. As I pulled away in my car, I was really overwhelmed by how upset I was over certain comments. I thought about sharing the things that were said in this very column and ridiculing people who I felt made inappropriate statements. That though, would have been way too easy. I turned my car around and pulled up to City Hall. I popped back in as the meeting had adjourned. I walked up to the people who I felt had made unfair comments and told them how I felt. It wasn’t the easiest thing to do, but I had a discussion with each and stated my peace. I knew I was quite tardy when returning home. I knew my children weren’t thrilled with me, one in particular. I started to explain where I had been. I told them there were mixed feelings about the library moving. I relayed that people who felt

‘They were passionate about a library that they love and vocal about their need to be a part of decision making.’

concerned about the matter came together to talk with people who felt it was a good decision. We had a discussion about how it is important to stand up for what you believe and how it is just as important to be able to gather with people who might have differing views, with both sides being able to share their outlook on matters. We chatted about the importance to hear and be heard. Without going into detail, I expressed to my children statements were made that upset me earlier that night. I talked about how I could have gone home and hid behind my computer screen and called people out on social media or in print, but that wouldn’t have been right. What I felt was right was to let them know I thought their words were unfair and some hurtful. It gave them a chance to give a true apology, if they chose to do so. We had a talk about how although we have control over what we say, we do not necessarily have control over how those words can affect someone else. We also talked about how we all say and do really stupid things sometimes and the significance of apologizing if you upset someone. I also relayed the importance of that apology being genuine. I didn’t like things that transpired Tuesday, but it did give me an opportunity to chat with the kiddos about a variety of important things. I was let off the hook later as I made good on my plans with one of my children. I didn’t want to sit as they gave me the lesson on broken promises. I enjoy sharing my thoughts with you and look forward to readers sharing their thoughts in return. Feel free to email me at editor@ theameryfreepress.com, write me at P.O. Box 424, Amery WI. 54001 or I can be reached by phone at 715-268-8101.

OPINION

FEBRUARY 4, 2020

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THE POSTSCRIPT

FISCAL FACTS

Mouse Vomit Last week I started doing something I’ve never done before. I started writing fiction. I realize this does not sound shocking since I’m writing every week. My husband, Peter, says I write fiction all the time—every time I write about him. But the truth is, I have not written a word of fiction since I was in the second grade and wrote, “The 500-Pound Mouse.” I can’t take credit for either The the title or the protagonist, Postscript as they were assigned by my teacher, but I have to take full Carrie Classon responsibility for the deeply disappointing conclusion of the story when our hero, the now very large mouse, threw up nearly 500 pounds of mouse vomit on the front lawn and was instantly restored to his original size. You can now probably appreciate why I have avoided fiction since. What happened last week was that I woke with a particularly vivid dream. I dream a lot and my dreams are usually weird, so this was nothing new. This time, it was a complete outline to a novel. This was also not a first. I have terrific stories plotted in my dreams and the moment I am fully awake they fall apart like cobwebs. “Wait… was I on the couch or in a car? Was I rescuing my sister or a dog?” Poof! The idea is gone. But this time, the idea stuck. “Nonsense!” I assured myself. I decided to prove to myself what a really dumb idea it was by writing it all down. To my consternation, the idea looked better on paper than it had in my head. I promised myself I would let that idea slowly evaporate over the next forty-eight

hours. I was certain there would be nothing left of it by then. Two days later, I had characters jumping out of the woodwork and yammering at me night and day. “Okay, fine!” I grumbled. I sat down and wrote 700 words. “What the heck is that?!” I said to myself when I read it over. I generally think of myself as a fairly sunny person. This writing was dark, and ominous, and a little scary, and (at least to me) really funny. So now it appears I’m writing a novel—with no training whatsoever, mind you, and no idea where I’m going. The story is spooling out faster than I can type it down and it doesn’t appear that I am inventing any of it. It feels as if this story has tracked me down, gotten my phone number, taken my pet bunny hostage, and demanded I write it… OR ELSE. (I made up the part about the bunny.) So, I’m writing. The more I write, the more I have become aware of how much time I spend trying to talk myself into doing the things I think I’m supposed to be doing instead of doing something that doesn’t feel like work at all, but feels more like a guilty pleasure, more like eating chocolate than anything productive. Still, there are now 10,000 words staring me in the face and I know that I will finish this thing—whatever it is. I now wonder how many other ideas I may have discarded because I thought they were silly or I was unqualified or I just didn’t have the time. I imagine there have been a lot. But I’m not going to dwell on that now. Now I’ve got a book to finish and, while I don’t know how it ends, I’m fairly confident it will not involve a single ounce of mouse vomit. Till next time, Carrie

Police spending up, staffing levels down in Wisconsin’s biggest cities In seven of Wisconsin’s 10 largest cities, there were fewer police officers per capita in 2018 than a decade earlier, even as their police spending levels and violent crime rates both increased. Police staffing levels were hotly debated during recent city budget deliberations in Milwaukee and Madison. Wisconsin Policy Forum analyzed a decade of data for Wisconsin’s 10 largest cities to determine if others face similar questions about appropriate levels of sworn police officers. Our findings show how police spending can outpace inflation even as staffing levels fall. They may also provide insight into how cities are handling core public safety duties during a time when they face limits on property taxes and little to no increase in state aids. In six of the 10 cities studied — Milwaukee, Madison, Green Bay, Kenosha, Racine, Appleton, Waukesha, Oshkosh, Eau Claire, and Janesville — the total number of officers increased between 2008 and 2018. But population increases meant that seven of 10 cities had fewer officers per capita, with the exceptions being Janesville, Oshkosh and Racine. Despite the per capita drop in sworn staff in most of the cities, their police spending increased substantially. Violent crime rates also rose, though we are not suggesting a link between these factors. Also worth noting is that the Wisconsin violent crime rate figures contradict the national trend for all U.S. cities, which saw their combined violent crime rate decrease from 2008 to 2017. Municipal elected officials must consider many factors within their budgets and communities when deciding police sworn strength levels. However, given the priority that is typically given to public safety, the fact that police staffing in many large cities is not keeping pace with population growth could be a sign of intensifying fiscal constraints. This information is a service of the Wisconsin Policy Forum, the state’s leading resource for nonpartisan state and local government research and civic education. Learn more at wispolicyforum.org.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Impeachment concerns

Supports Tom Tiffany

Last week I read a letter to the editor that concerns me, because it quotes a slogan I never heard before. It claimed that Hitler’s rise to power came from a slogan of (Make Germany Great Again). It seems strange that the teachers I had in High School were from the WWII war area, not once did I hear this slogan. What I was taught was that Germany was in an economic slump because WWI cost which was causing high inflation making their money worthless, and the Jews owned many of the businesses at that time and doing well. Hitler with no background in anything came on the seen claiming the Germans plight was caused by the economic separation, pointing a finger at the Jews. If you think about it this sounds more like Bernie Sanders than Trump, of course what would one expect from a guy who looks up to Fidel Castro and his economic equalization methods. I recently heard the conversation between Bolton and Trump, and there is no denying Trump told Bolton (no new money to the Ukraine until they tell him what business Biden has there). My issue is I don’t see this as an impeachable clause, if the Biden’s are using the Ukraine to launder money than they should be held accountable. The second question is if we give a country billions of dollars,

why don’t we make them accountable for its use. Using money as a leverage is common in the business world, if you don’t pay your electric bill they shut it off as leverage to make you pay. Every Politician should be standing behind Trump saying to the Biden’s “what is your business in the Ukraine? Show us the documentation”. My experience is the one doing the finger pointing and screaming the loudest is usually the one in the wrong. What concerns me the most is the division that is being created in Washington, most politicians sound like spoiled brats that never grew up. They don’t seem to care about the country as a whole, only their own agenda and what lines their pockets. It’s hard for me to comprehend a politician saying “we got to pass it to see what’s in it” and getting reelected because of their political affiliation. Luke 11:17 makes the point that a house divided against itself will fail. The two party system is dividing and failing us as a country, and being sold on the idea that not voting a major party is a wasted vote has only kept the system in control. What we need as a country is to vote for people with integrity no matter what their political affiliation is. Jeff Ditschler Amery, WI

LETTER GUIDELINES The Amery Free Press encourages readers to share their viewpoints of community issues by writing Letters to the Editor. Submit your letters via email to editor@theameryfreepress.com, by mail to the Amery Free Press, P.O. Box 424 Amery, WI 54001, or by fax to 715-268-5300.

We reserve the right to edit for accuracy, clarity, libel, and civility. General letters to the editor are limited to 400 words or less. Readers may submit one letter for consideration every 30 days. Letters must include the writer’s full name, address, and phone number (address and phone number will not be

printed). Anonymous letters will not be published. Only letters originating from writers who live, have lived or work in the Amery Free Press circulation area or have some other relevance to the community area will be published. Special rules apply to election-related letters. For questions about policies on letters contact the editor at 715-268-8101

The choice to replace Congressman Sean Duffy is an easy one. I will be voting for Tom Tiffany in the February 18th special election. I have known Tom for nearly 20 years. He is a small business owner, family man, and has the real-world experience that is so vital to represent us the right way. He has always been a principled conservative and has proven time and again he doesn’t just talk, but actually delivers results for his constituents. Tom has

also been endorsed by Congressman Sean Duffy, Governor Scott Walker, Wisconsin Right to Life, Americans for Prosperity and has an A+ rating from the NRA. Join me in supporting Tom Tiffany on February 18th. He is the only candidate with deep ties to the district and a proven record of standing up for conservative ideals. Joyce Bant, Hazelhurst, WI Paid Political Endorsement

A Big Step Backwards Dear Editor What is our City Council thinking? Is it a matter of money? That can be solved. We have always been proud of Amery as a progressive city. Destroying one of Amery’s brightest stars is regressive. The Amery Library is by far one of the best in Wisconsin for a city of 3,000. People looking to relocate look for medical and education. Our library certainly is a factor.

The Amery Woman’s Club established the library 99 years ago. It has gotten better ever since. Now our council wants to negate years of progress. Don’t we, as taxpayers, have some input? No public meetings–just a decision of a handful with no notice. A library in a moist basement with stairs–regressive! Two very disappointed lifetime Amery residents, Vonnie & Darold Niccum

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Amery Area Municipal Court Amery Area Municipal Court was held in Amery on Wednesday, January 29, 2020. The following cases were heard:

CITY OF AMERY Spencer J. Adams, 24, Amery, approaching operator failure to dim multibeams, $86.20; operating motor vehicle without proof of insurance, $124. Alix R. Boltik, 23, Turtle Lake, operating without carrying license, $73.60. Michael S. Cosentino, 36, North St. Paul, MN, violating red traffic signal, $98.80. William D. Field, 19, Scandia, MN, exceeding speed zones (1-10 mph), $98.80. Rex Houserman, 63, Apple Valley, exceeding speed zones (16-19 mph), $124. Pamela M. Howell, 54, Clear Lake, exceeding speed zones (11-15 mph), $98.80. Claudia L. Justice, 54, Amery, exceeding speed zones (1-10 mph), $98.80. Catherine M. Loverude, 62, Amery, operating motor vehicle without proof of insurance, $10. 16 year old, Lake Elmo, MN, exceeding speed zones (11-15 mph), $98.80. Melissa M. Menter, 44, Amery, operating without valid license, $124; operating motor vehicle without insurance, $124. Justin C. Miller, 24, New Richmond, operating motor vehicle without proof of insurance, $124; disorderly conduct with a motor vehicle, $124. Shanon M. Peck, 38, Amery, credit card forgery (fraud by other), $737.80. Keri L. Reed, 43, Deer Park, operating motor vehicle without proof of insurance, $10. Joseph A. Schirmeister, 30, Clear Lake, non-registration of auto, $98.80; violating yellow traffic signal, $98.80; operating motor vehicle without insurance, $124. 17 year old, Amery, purchase or possession of tobacco products, $92.50. Nicole M. Swanson, 34, Amery, contributing to truancy, $313. Timothy L. Waterman, 38, Amery, operating motor vehicle without proof of insurance, $10. JUVENILES 14 year old, Amery, truancy, $92.50. 14 year old, Amery, truancy, $92.50. 15 year old, Amery, purchase or possession of tobacco products, $92.50. 14 year old, Clayton, underage drinking-possession, $98.80. PLEAS OF NOT GUILTY WERE ENTERED BY THE FOLLOWING: Brittney L. Bailey, operating without carrying license and failure to notify DMV of address change, $159.80. Jason H. Bump, speeding (11-15 mph), $98.80. Landon J. Conner, loud and unnecessary noise and non-registration of auto, $222.80. Nur Ahmed Hashi, speeding (16-19 mph), $124. Tyler J. Miller, speeding (11-15 mph), $98.80. Bryan J. Pick, OWI, prohibited alcohol content, open intoxicants in motor vehicle, speeding (16-19 mph) and operating without insurance, $1,359. 16 year old, Amery, underage drinking (2nd), $187.

Polk County marriage licenses Joshua Robert James of Luck and Phoebe Bilaza Belga of the Philippines are to be married February 21, 2020.

Amery Police Report Polk County arrests 01/24/20-01/30/20 01/24/20, 04:32 a.m., Welfare check 01/24/20, 10:55 a.m., Juvenile call 01/24/20, 05:53 p.m., Assist citizen 01/24/20, 09:27 p.m., Business alarm 01/25/20, 12:31 a.m., Assist citizen 01/25/20, 07:15 a.m., Mental health call 01/25/20, 10:23 a.m., Traffic complaint 01/26/20, 12:44 a.m., Assist other agency 01/26/20, 10:35 a.m., Assist in a civil matter 01/26/20, 02:03 p.m., Theft report 01/26/20, 02:15 p.m., Vehicle lockout 01/26/20, 07:30 p.m., Juvenile call 01/27/20, 12:01 a.m., Suspicious activity 01/27/20, 12:12 a.m., Disturbance 01/27/20, 05:50 p.m., Welfare check 01/27/20, 07 p.m., Mental health call 01/27/20, 07:30 p.m., Mental health call 01/27/20, 09:55 p.m., Welfare check 01/28/20, 10:35 a.m., Assist other agency 01/28/20, 12:53 p.m., Juvenile call 01/28/20, 05:35 p.m., Assist citizen 01/28/20, 07:38 p.m., Noise complaint 01/28/20, 08:12 p.m., Mental health call 01/28/20, 11:12 p.m., Assist citizen 01/29/20, 12:11 a.m., Assist EMS 01/29/20, 02:55 a.m., 911 hang up 01/29/20, 04:01 p.m., Juvenile call 01/29/20, 05:08 p.m., Mental health call 01/29/20, 07:29 p.m., Vehicle lockout 01/30/20, 12:32 p.m., Juvenile call 01/30/20, 06:30 p.m., Harassment report 01/30/20, 08 p.m., Animal control call

Charles L. Krech, 29, Luck, was arrested January 20 for domestic disorderly conduct. Robert Bernard Carpentier, 36, Osceola, was arrested January 20 for party to a crime possession of methamphetamine, party to a crime possession of drug paraphernalia, party to a crime operating vehicle without owners consent, party to a crime burglary, party to a crime theft, party to a crime receiving stolen property. Amber Rose Rogalla, 35, Hadley, MN, was arrested January 20 for operating vehicle without owners consent, burglary, theft and party to a crime receiving stolen property. Alexandra Rose Mullen, 26, Amery, was arrested January 22 for domestic disorderly conduct. Jeffrey Otto Johnson, 62, Amery, was arrested January 21 for restraining order violation. Kaj Philip Juergensen, 45, Dresser, was arrested January 25 for sexual intercourse

with a child 16 or older, incest with a child and third degree sexual assault. Lance Jason Best, 48, Luck, was arrested January 25 for domestic disorderly conduct. Nathaniel Oliver Root-Holloman, 18, Deer Park, was arrested January 25 for possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana. Lexi J. Benjamin, 22, Luck, was arrested January 23 for felony battery by prisoner, disorderly conduct and felony bail jumping. McKenzie Justine Ruud, 22, Deer Park, was arrested January 21 for OWI (1st) and prohibited alcohol content. Montana Lynn Bazille, 18, Amery, was arrested January 25 for OWI, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of marijuana. Bryan Patrick Hitzemann, 32, Balsam Lake, was arrested January 22 for a Washington State warrant. Robert J. Biedler, 33, Luck, was arrested January 27 for a probation hold warrant.

Inmate faces new charges BY APRIL ZIEMER EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

An inmate at the Polk County Jail has now added charges of disorderly conduct, battery by prisoners and bail jumping to her open cases in the State of Wisconsin after an altercation that took place January 24 within the Polk County Jail. Lexi Benjamin, 22, has been in Polk County Jail as a result of felony drug charges. According to the Probable Cause Report, A deputy received reports provided by two corrections officers and conducted interviews with them after they advised that during an attempt to move Benjamin into a different pod within the jail, she became very agitated Benjamin and began yelling. Benjamin was being moved from Pod A to Z2 due to not following orders. Allegedly she threw her breakfast tray in Pod A and began to walk away from corrections officers (COs). A CO ordered her to stop,

however she did not comply and walked toward the door to Pod A. The CO said he attempted to gain physical control of Benjamin by establishing a hold on her arm, however she actively resisted and tried to pull away. Once control was obtained, she was escorted to Z2, but she continued to actively resist on the way there. At one point she allegedly attempted to wedge her legs against a door frame, causing a scrape and bruising to the CO’s arm who was moving her. The CO did say that she did not believe Benjamin had intentionally tried to injure or cause her pain, and that it was a result of Benjamin actively resisting their attempts at escorting her. Once place in Z2, Benjamin allegedly used her elbow to strike the other CO with force in the chest/sternum area while he was leaning forward attempting to remove the mattress. Both Cos advised this appeared to be an intentional act done by Benjamin to strike and harm the CO, which did cause him pain. A deputy attempted to interview Benjamin regarding the incident and she advised she wanted an attorney and would not speak about what took place.

Auto theft leads to lengthy list of charges BY APRIL ZIEMER EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

A report of a stolen vehicle was the start of a chain of events leading to the arrest of Robert Carpentier, 36, Osceola and Amber Rogalla, 35, Hadley, Minnesota January 20. According to the Probable Cause report, an officer was dispatched in St. Croix Falls after a woman called to report that Carpentier and Rogalla had been to her residence and stole her vehicle. The victim said earlier in the day she pulled the vehicle into her driveway and realized the brakes on her car were not working so she had to apply the emergency brake to get the car to stop. She left the residence to go get parts to repair the vehicle and when she returned home, she saw her vehicle was missing. The victim asked her roommate

where the car was. Her roommate said that Carpentier and Rogalla had come to the house, went into a bedroom, where they may have possibly taken items and left with her car. She Carpentier said Rogalla took the stolen vehicle and Carpentier followed behind her, driving another vehicle. The victim said Rogalla had previously taken her car without permission and driven it to MilRogalla waukee. The victim stated she knew Rogalla from jail and that she believed Rogalla may have also stolen her spare key to the vehicle.

Missing from the bedroom where Carpentier and Rogalla allegedly entered were a laptop computer, several bags and numerous personal identifications, including her driver’s license. During the incident, a Polk County investigator overheard radio traffic pertaining to the incident. He was familiar with Carpentier based on an on-going drug investigation, which was being conducted by the Polk County Sheriff’s Office and St. Croix Valley Drug Task Force. As part of the on-going investigation, law enforcement had secured a search warrant for Carpentier’s vehicle and residence. Law enforcement located the stolen vehicle left abandoned and there did not appear to be damage to the vehicle. They informed the owner it had SEE AUTO THEFT, PAGE 29

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75 Years Ago February 1, 1945 Awarded Silver Star in Germany Word has been received that Lt. Felix Kazemba, son of Mr. and Mr. A. J. Kazemba who reside between Amery and Clear Lake, has been awarded the coveted Silver Star. The citation said in part: “1st Lt. Felix Y. Kazemba, Medical Administrative Corps, Medical Detachment, 409th Infantry Regiment for gallantry in action. On 19 Dec. 1944, during our attack in the vicinity of…..Germany, it was found impossible to evacuate our wounded due to terrific enemy artillery and sniper fire. Lt. Kazemba, on his own initiative, organized a medical detail to set up an advance aid station on the front lines. “Disregarding the heavy enemy mortar, sniper and artillery fire, Lt. Kazemba, magnificently led his detail over two mountains to successfully set up aid in a captured pillbox. With utter disregard for his life, he directed the treatment of the wounded and skillfully evacuated several of the Yesterday’s very seriously injured men to News the battalion Diane Stangl aid station. “Lt. Kazemba’s display of superb leadership, and gallantry in action under most adverse of conditions was a source of inspiration to all. The lives of at least three wounded men were saved and the pain of others was greatly alleviated by his outstanding heroism.”

Plans Underway for Egg Plant in Amery Harry Margolis of the Margolis Produce Co., recently announced plans for opening an egg breaking plant as a new division of the Margolis Produce Co. This new division will be located in the old Super Ice Cream Co. plant in Amery and will be in operation by Feb. 15. Present plans include the hiring of approximately 40 women for egg grading and breaking operations. Harry stated they plan to break and freeze about 15,000 pounds of eggs per day. His estimate today is a payroll of approximately $35,000 for the egg breaking season, which extends into July. The opening of the egg breaking plant will round out Harry’s plan of bringing home to the city of Amery and the farmers of Polk County, the processing plants of the egg and poultry industry, which in turn will provide a local market and bigger returns to the farmer.

65 Years Ago February 10, 1955 Suggests New Name for Council Oscar Granum of Amery is $100 richer and the St. Paul

Five businesses destroyed by gasoline fire Nothing was saved in the aftermath of the devastating fire that began about 3:30 a.m. February 20, 1965. The building in the foreground was the Amery Motor Company with the Granum-Agency to the north. Other businesses damaged were: Rudy and Esther’s Diner; Iverson’s Cities Service Station and car lot; and the S & F Petroleum bulk plant. Mrs. Ada Hanson, 65, living in the frame dwelling to the rear of the diner and perished in the fire.

Area Boy Scout Council has a new name according to a television news broadcast last week. The new title submitted by Mr. Granum to replace the long moniker above, is “Indianhead Council.” The decision picking the winner was reached at an executive committee meeting on Feb. 4.

60 Years Ago February 11, 1960 Fox Bounty Payments Continue at Office People in this area are continuing to take advantage of the fox bounty installed during the legislative session, according to a report from the office of Elroy Spangenberg, County Clerk. Since the bounties went into effect, Jan. 1, the county has paid for 425 foxes. Payments from the county amount to $1,162 at $2.50 per animal.

Foxes Disappear in South Amery Unknown “bounty hunters” lifted 10 fox from the Mark Omer residence last Tuesday night. The animals were hanging in a tree near his home and Bait Shop in south Amery. “They must have been scared because they left one laying on the ground,” stated Omer.

65 Years Ago February 11, 1965 Luck Carnival to Run This Weekend Promoters of the Luck Winter Carnival have their fingers crossed and their eyes scanning the weather forecasts as they prepare for their annual event this weekend. The queen pageant starts the festivities this Thursday evening followed by three days of activities. Included on the agenda are basketball, queen coronation, teenage dance, chain sawing contest, barn dance show, square dancing, car races and a diving exhibition by the St. Croix Valley Skydivers. Saturday afternoon marks

the big parade for the event.

February 18, 1965 Five Businesses Destroyed by Gasoline Fire But for the grace of God and a supreme effort by volunteer firemen, the city of Amery’s business district could have been entirely destroyed by fire early Saturday morning. The fire started when a 12,000 gallon bulk storage tank at the S & F Petroleum Company ruptured, pouring raw gasoline into the streets and almost immediately enveloping five business structures, a house and a trailer house. At the time of the rupture, the tank was being filled by an Indianhead transport containing some 8,000 gallons. Driver Dennis Houle, 41, was outside the cab watching the fill operation when he heard a gushing sound like water. He dashed to shut off his equipment and went to investigate the trouble. Looking at the tanks, he found the huge tank ruptured on the east side of the bottom. The gasoline poured into the curb and south towards the Amery Motor Company and the other structures within the block. Driver Houle ran up the street where he found Night Officer Robert Shirley. After asking him to call the fire equipment, Houle ran back to the scene with the intention of bringing his equipment away if possible. As he approached his truck, he had to scamper back for his life when fire ignited the sea of gasoline just south of the tanks. Sheets of flame immediately enveloped the street to the west and south as far as the Brookview Motel with flames shooting heavenward from 10-12 feet. Officer Shirley had trouble contacting the fire department when the phone service became severed by the blasts from the tanks. “I was almost rolled out of bed,” were the words of Clifford Olufson, a resident across the

street in describing the explosions and the tanker scattered in parts all over the area. Fire companies from New Richmond, Clear Lake, Balsam Lake, and Centuria answered the call and were on the scene in a few minutes. Sensing the need for a firebreak to check the spread of the flames that were now consuming the business buildings to the south, the firemen concentrated their attention on the Iverson Implement building and warehouse, just across the street from the bulk tank. Despite the fact that a number of cars parked behind the building were consumed by fire and the warehouse gutted inside, the firemen were able to contain the spreading flames at that point on the north. The department was in trouble with the fire pouring down the street towards the Brookview Motel and Wayne’s Café, but a strong south wind helped their cause and they were able to water down the structures, saving further damage. Throughout the vigil, the department kept pouring water on the bulk tanks and they were able to contain the fire and save one tank from exploding and becoming overheated.

Truck Driver Runs For Life After Gas Ignites Visibly shaken by the terrifying experience, Dennis Houle, 41, Indianhead truck driver, readily consented to talk with the editor of this newspaper concerning his part in the Saturday morning disaster. “I remember marking down in my log book that I pulled into the bulk plant at 1:50 a.m.” began Houle as he outlined his safety precautions required before he started to unload his transport loaded with 8,000 gallons of gasoline. “This was a ‘key stop’ and I have to be extra careful when no bulk agent is around so that the transport is unloaded in the proper tanks,” he commented, telling how he spent some time checking the valves and tanks

before starting his pumper going. Incidentally, before anything was done, he reported unloading his fire extinguisher and placing it within easy access to his station outside the truck. Final step in his preliminary operations was to check his tanks to see that there were no leaks or other irregularities. After emptying the first compartments, which he estimated took about 40 minutes, he noticed a gushing sound. “At first I thought it was water… but I stopped all operations to investigate,” he said. It was then that he noticed the rupture in the bulk tank on the concrete standard and the gasoline pouring out of the tank. Realizing the possible consequences, Houle ran up the street where he found Night Officer Robert Shirley near the Amery Hotel and he relayed the information asking that the fire department be called at once. He then ran back to the scene, thinking that perhaps he could somehow get his vehicle away from the scene but it was too late. As he approached the truck, the gasoline ignited to the south of the bulk tanks and within an instant, the entire area was a flaming torch. “I heard several explosions – at least four,” declared Houle as he told about running from the scene as he was by this time soaked up to his knees in raw gasoline. Terrific concussion resulted from the blasts and literally knocked residents along Keller out of their beds. Dr. H. A. Dasler arrived on the scene shortly thereafter and when it was discovered that his phone was still in working order, Houle was taken to their home and housed for the early morning hours. “These people were just wonderful to me, were words he used to express his feelings, in reference to Dr. and Mrs. Dasler. The hosts found clothing for him and helped him over the tough moments of shock. Houle has been working for the company about two months during his present employment with the firm, but worked for them prior to his recent tenure. He is a resident of Hugo, Minn.

35 Years Ago January 29, 1985 A & W Restaurant Opens For Business Amery has a new restaurant. Arlan and Melanie Hanson, Amery, officially opened their 60-seat A & W Restaurant on Tuesday morning, Jan. 29. Construction of the restaurant began last fall following the Amery Fall Festival. An existing A & W Root Beer stand was demolished to make way for the restaurant. Hanson said his business will open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. yearround. Besides seating 60, the restaurant features a call in, carry-out service and in a short time will have a drive-up window.

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LIBRARY: Sides agree that nobody wants to see ‘city jewel’ diminished CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

really need to take away and reinvest those dollars again for a less quality product, I think you need to reconsider,” she said. Schacht returned to her seat with applause from the packed audience when Brenda Ramin made a plea from the back of the room to the committee members. “I would like some facts. I would like to know what the parameters are such as ‘How much, what stays and what goes with?’ Just to help generate a real conversation, if that is possible?” Strohbusch responded, “The reason behind this is not to diminish the jewel of the city as the previous lady said, that is not our intention. It is to get all of our services under one roof. Financially the cost of staying in the current facilities of the library and police department are expensive, about $50,000 a year. That is a lot of money that we could be investing elsewhere within the city.” He said the hospital has informed the city of a renovation project. “We would be on the hook for some of that.” He said the project was mentioned in a 2017 Free Press article and that article quoted the city’s expense of renovations to be around $600,000. “It is my assumption that price tag has increased in the last three years because they tend not to go down. So we are looking at significant cost to the city. We

APRIL ZIEMER | AMERY FREE PRESS

The Amery Public Library’s door counter read 70,000 entrances to the building last year.

could reinvest that money into a facility that we own and that we control for the future of the city,” said Strohbusch. “I understand the concern about the road diet and the reconstruction of downtown Amery, we are concerned too, but the road diet and reconstruction of downtown is, in the end, going to make Amery look like a model city,” he said. “It is our intention to make City Hall/the current Bremer building the jewel of downtown. We want it to look good. We are not going to put our facilities in someplace that is substandard. We have no intentions of putting any of our employees in an environment that is not good to work in,” said Strohbusch. He said that the next item on the agenda after library comments was to look over engineering proposals for the

project and look at the building. “Make the building meet the needs of city services. That means ADA compliant, HVAC compliant and anything else that is needed in that building to make it a nice facility,” Strohbusch said. Ramin asked for some clarification on some of his statements concerning the yearly cost of the current library space. Strohbusch responded, “Where we are now is $50,000 a year.” She asked him to confirm that the HVAC for the current location will cost $600,000. “That is what our cost would be,” Strohbusch said. Ramin asked, “And that is an engineering number that has been published?” Council member Rick Van Blaricom said, “Just some clarification on that. The $600,000 project for new HVAC is not to benefit the library or police

department. As I understand the HVAC we have there now is adequate for our space. The $600,000 HVAC is our share of a one and a half to 2 million dollar upgrade that is necessary for the hospital part.” Ramin asked, “Is that based on our condominium agreement?” “Yes,” said Van Blaricom. Ramin asked what year that agreement was made, but Van Blaricom could not remember. He said it was made before the library moved to the current location. Ramin asked, “That move was a $1.5 million project?” Van Blaricom responded, “I am not sure what we spent as I wasn’t on city council at that point in time. We were all surprised though when we found out how much we were spending in condo fees.” He explained that with the Condominium Agreement between the city and the hospital, the city owns the library and police department buildings, but not the land they sit on. “Once again, that was something that was pretty much a surprise to this council, that we didn’t own the land.” Van Blaricom addressed attendees and said, “I agree with you guys. We have the best library system, building, etc. of anyplace that I have been. I have been to a number of them in the past few weeks just to see what they got. We don’t want to lose that.” When speaking of concerns that the library once moved

will have less space, Van Blaricom said, “Those decisions have been bantered around, but there is no decision that has been made. I do not know if you will come out with the exact same square footage. That is part of the deal of hiring an engineer.” He said the current city hall building is not ADA compliant and it needs $150,000 worth of new roofing, which also helped the city come to its decision about the Bremer building purchase. He said the hospital was willing to purchase the current library and police space. Ramin asked, “At what price?” Van Blaricom responded, “I don’t know that I heard the exact price, but it is pretty substantial. I think it was in the neighborhood of $450,000.” Ramin said, “So originally as a community we spent 1.5 million on the library, maybe. The Friends of the Library have contributed $224,000 to the facility. This does not include the contributions of families and individuals to build the children’s areas, reading or coffee space. If we are getting back $450,000 and all things being equal, we are not getting a very good return on our investment.” Van Blaricom said, “We are not getting a very good deal if we stay there either.” He was asked what would happen with the current City SEE LIBRARY, PAGE 33

SMITH: Future plans include college in Duluth and a degree in Engineering CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

He also has thought about the fact that there may be younger kids looking up to him. As far as advice he would give them, Mac said, “Play every game like it is your last. Also, always play every game with your heart. Enjoy hockey because it is a great sport and the friendships that come from it are life-long.” He also likes the competitiveness of hockey. “You have to give 100% of yourself 100% of the time,” he said. To get ready for a game he simply eats Jimmy Johns and catches an episode of “The Office.” He said, “I try to relax and not get too nervous before a game.” Mac appreciates his supportive family who attends his games. “My Aunt Rachel comes to about every game. She has a ‘Fat Head’ that she carries around of my face. I think she even has one of my dad too.” Looking back, he has quite a few hockey memories from over the years. He enjoyed traveling to various tournaments, staying at hotels and hanging out with his friends while traveling for these games. A memory that is especially dear to Mac took place at the beginning of his high school career. “One that stands out is when I scored my first high school goal during my freshman year. It was our first game. We played against the Minnesota Revolution,” he said. Like with most situations in life, sometimes you win and sometimes you lose. Mac feels the hardest losses of his high school career thus far, were both against Baldwin-Woodville during playoff games his sophomore and junior years. “Both were close games. My sophomore year, we even had an early lead, but ended up losing,” said Mac. The day after his Free Press interview Mac and his team went on to beat Baldwin-Woodville and become MBC champions. The last time Amery held that title was 2012. When he isn’t on the ice, Mac likes playing baseball, hunting, going to the family cabin and snowmobiling.

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Mac Smith’s aunt, Rachel Hansen (left) and his mom Jessica are shown with a “Fat Head” to cheer for him at the rink .

Mac Smith in his early hockey days at the Amery Ice Arena.

He said, “I like the outdoors in general. It is fun to be outside and be active.” He enjoys his time at Amery High School. “I think the teachers are good at relating subjects to everyday life. They are really personal with their teaching,” Mac said. Mac will be attending UMD after high school, ma-

joring in Engineering. He has a positive outlook for the remainder of his high school hockey career. He said, “Hopefully we get a high seed in playoffs, win sectionals and go to State. Mac said he knew Hayward and Superior would be tough teams to beat, but was confident it could be done.

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AREA CHURCHES AMERY CONGREGATIONAL, 201 N. Harriman Ave. Barry Schaefer, pastor Wednesday, February 5: 3:30 pm Homework & Hangout/WOW; 5:45 pm Congo Cooks Youth Dinner/Youth Group. Thursday, February 6: 9:30 am Local Communions, Senior Dining Hall Open; 5:30 pm Women’s Bible Study; 7 pm Money Management. Friday, February 7: 8:30 am Distant Communions; 9:30 am Senior Dining Hall Open. Saturday, February 8: 6 am Ruby’s Pantry Food Set-Up; 7:30 am Ruby’s Pantry Registration Begins, Youth Service and Fun Day; 9 am Ruby’s Registration Closes, Food Distribution Begins. Sunday, February 9: 8:30 am MT20 Meeting; 10 am Worship, Sunday School; 11:15 am Trustee Meeting; 11:30 am L2 Confo; 1 pm Youth Cookie Decorating at Amery Memory Care. Monday, February 10: 9:30 am Senior Dining Hall Open; 7 pm Boy Scouts. Tuesday, February 11: 6:30 am Men’s Bible Study; 9:30 am Senior Dining Hall Open; 10 am Bible Study; 6 pm Council Meeting. AMERY FREE LUTHERAN, 1 mile west of golf course on CTH F, Eric Christenson, pastor, www.ameryflc.org Every Sunday: 9 am Sunday School; 10:15 am Worship Service; 6 pm Small Group Bible Studies in homes. Wednesdays: 9:30 am Small Group Women’s Bible Study in home; 7 pm Youth Group. Call the church office for details 715-268-9218. APPLE RIVER COMMUNITY, 942 US Hwy. 8, Amery Justin Hosking, pastor Sunday: 9:30 am Sunday School for All Ages; 10:15 am Coffee and Fellowship; 10:30 am Morning Worship. Monday: 6:30 pm Women’s Bible Study. Tuesday: 9:30 am Women’s Bible Study. Wednesday: 10 am Men’s Bible Study; 5:30 pm One-Way Club for Kids. Thursday: 9:30 am White Cross. Friday: 9 am M.O.P.S. BALSAM LUTHERAN, 1115 Mains Crossing, Amery, Dan Watland, pastor 507-459-1141, Church 715-2689291, www.balsamlutheranchurch.org. Thursday, February 5: Prayer Ministry Committee. Sunday, February 9: 8:30 am Confirmation Class, Sunday School, SS Hosts Fellowship Time, Social Ministry Committee; 9:45 am Girls Chorus Practice; 10:15 am Worship with Holy Communion; 11:15 am Annual Meeting. CENTERPOINT, 740 Maple Drive, St. Croix Falls (High school) Dick Enerson, pastor Sunday: 10-11:15 am Worship celebration; Children’s church (SuperKidz) age 4-5th grade; Nursery (KidzKorner) birth-3 years. Cell Groups (small group Bible studies) offered throughout the week. CHURCH OF CHRIST, New Richmond Jack Philips, Evangelist, 715-497-7596 Sunday: 9 am Bible Study; 10 am Worship. Wednesday: 6:30 pm Bible Study and Devotions. CLEAR LAKE UNITED METHODIST, John Hazen, pastor Sunday: 8:30 am Worship. DEER PARK UNITED METHODIST, John Hazen, pastor Sunday: 11 am Worship. DERONDA LUTHERAN, 1239 65th Ave., Amery Lori Peper, pastor 715-268-9577 Wednesday, February 5: 6 pm JAM & Confirmation at Deronda; 7:30 pm NUIC Choir Practice at Deronda. Thursday, February 6: 9 am Deronda Quilting. Friday, February 7: 5-8 pm Befriender Training at Trinity. Saturday, February 8: 8 am - 3 pm Befriender Training at Trinity. Sunday, February 9: 8 am Deronda Worship; 9:30 am Little Falls Worship; 11 am Trinity Worship. Tuesday, February 11: 9 am Parish Staff Meeting at Trinity; 9:30 am Little Falls Quilting; 7 pm NUIC Parish Council at Little Falls. See our website for up-to-date scheduling www.derondachurch.net. EAST BALSAM BAPTIST, 1816 108th St./CTH I, Balsam Lake www.eastbalsam.org 715-857-5411 Sunday: 9 am Worship service; 9:30 am Children’s Church. Tuesday: Women’s Ministry; 9 am Bible Study. EAST IMMANUEL LUTHERAN, south of Amery on Hwy. 46 then west on 20th Ave., Kathy Pennington, pastor Sunday, February 9: 9:30 am Education; 10:30 am Worship. EAST LINCOLN ALLIANCE, 735 70th Ave., Amery 715-268-2350 www.eastlincolnalliance.com Eric Danielson and Randy Schussman, pastors Sunday: 8:45 am Prayer Meeting; 9 am Coffee and Fellowship; 9:30 am Worship service. Child Care and Discovery Land for children are provided during Worship service. Small groups meet throughout the week. Contact the church office for further details. Recharge for Middle and High School students, 6 pm every Wednesday. EL SALEM BAPTIST/TWIN FALLS CHRISTIAN CENTER, Dresser, Darryl R. Olson, pastor

Sunday: 9:30 am Sunday school; 10:35 am Worship; 6 pm Sunday evening. Wednesday: 7 pm Bible Study. ELIM LUTHERAN, Range, Dan Watland, pastor Sunday: 8:30 am Worship. Holy Communion 2nd and 3rd Sundays. Council 3rd Tuesday at 6 pm FAITH LUTHERAN (ELCA), 301 1st Ave. East (across from public beach on Co. Rd. I) Balsam Lake, 715-4853800, Diane Norstad, pastor Sunday: 9:30 am Sunday worship; Communion first and last Sunday. Wednesday: 6:15 pm Christian Education; 7 pm Worship; 7:30 pm Youth Group. FAITH LUTHERAN (ELCA), 134 Prentice St. S, Clayton Margaret Grant, pastor Sunday: 9 am Sunday school; 9:45 am Worship; 10:45 am Fellowship. Men’s Bible Study 2nd Sunday 6 pm Mission Quilting Tuesdays 9 am Wednesday evening service 7:15-7:45 pm FIRST LUTHERAN, 240 Elm St., Amery Tim Bjorge, pastor Wednesday, February 5: 6 pm Men in Mission Dinner; 6 pm Confirmation. Thursday, February 6: 8 am Bible Study; 8:30 am Quilters; 7 pm Al Anon. Friday, February 7: 9-10:30 am & 10:30 am - Noon Meatball Dinner Prep. Sunday, February 9: 9 am Worship; 10:15 am Sunday School; 10:30 am - 12:30 pm Meatball Dinner. Tuesday, February 11: 7:30 am Women’s Bible Study; 8:30 am Property; 9 am - 6 pm WIC Clinic; 6:30 pm Worship/Life/Long Range Planning Committee. FIRST LUTHERAN (LCMC), 811 South Ave. W, Clear Lake www.firstluthclearlake.com, Bryan S. Anderson, pastor Wednesday, February 5: 6:15 pm 7th & 8th Grade Confirmation; 7:30 pm 9th Grade Confirmation. Thursday, February 6: 1 pm Afternoon Stars at Church. Sunday, February 9: 8:30 am Contemporary Worship; 9:30 am Fellowship; 9:40 am Sunday School; 10 am Traditional Worship; 10:30 am Annual Meeting; 11 am Church Potluck; 5-7 pm Valentine’s Dinner. Monday, February 10: 10 am Staff Meeting; 3 pm Service at Golden Age Manor. Tuesday, February 11: 9 am Quilting, Pastor at Clergy Meeting. FIRST PRESYTERIAN, 719 Nevada St., St. Croix Falls Barbara Anne Keely, pastor Sunday: 10:15 am Coffee and Fellowship; 11 am Worship.

FOREST UNITED METHODIST, John Hazen, pastor Sunday: 9:45 am Worship. FULL GOSPEL LIGHTHOUSE, Graytown Merlin Burton, pastor Sunday: 10:30 am Sunday school; 11 am Worship. GEORGETOWN LUTHERAN-ELCA, 877 190th Ave. Co. Rd. G, Balsam Lake (Fox Creek) 715-857-5580, serving@georgetownlutheran.net, Pastor Diane House Sunday: 9:15 am Sunday school; 10:30 am Worship; Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday. GRACE LUTHERAN - WELS, 460 4th St., Clear Lake, Ellery W. Groth, pastor 715-491-4330 Sunday: 10:15 am Worship. Thursday: 10 am Bible Class. HOLY TRINITY ORTHODOX, 511 1st St., Clayton, 715948-2493, htoc@amerytel.net, Chris Wojcik, pastor Sundays: 9:30 am Divine Liturgy. HOLY TRINITY UNITED METHODIST, 1606 165th Ave., Centuria, on CTH I between Balsam Lake and Centuria, Yul Kwon, pastor Sunday: 8:30 am Worship and Sunday School. IMMANUEL EV. LUTHERAN (LCMS), 124 E. Church St., Clayton, lmmLCLCMS@centurytel.net, 715-541-2955, Gregory Becker, pastor Sunday: 9 am Divine Worship. Wednesday: 6:30 pm Family Christian Education; 7:30 pm Confirmation. IMMANUEL LUTHERAN, 65th Ave., rural Clayton, Margaret Grant, pastor Sunday: 8:30 am Worship. Wednesday: 6:30 pm Family Christian Education; 7:30 pm Confirmation. JOURNEY CHURCH, 131 Broadway St. E, Amery, Derek Downs (Lead Pastor), Michael Shepherd (Family Life Pastor) 715-268-2223, www.journeychurch.city, office@journeychurch.city Every Sunday: 9 am Worship Service; Nursery for ages 0-3 is offered. Kids Zone Children’s Church ages preschool-4th grade will meet downstairs during the sermon! 10:30-11:30 am All Ages Sunday School. 2nd Sunday of the Month: 6-7 pm Praise and Prayer Night Mondays: 8:30 am Moms In Prayer. Wednesdays: 8:30-9:45 am Women’s Bible Study in the Teen Center; 5:45-6:15 pm Free Family Meal; 6:15-7:30 pm Kids Club, DW Youth Group in the Teen Center for grades 6-12. Thursdays: 8:30 am Prayer Group. Open to anyone with a heart of prayer; 5 pm Latino Bible Study. Saturdays: 7 am Men’s Bible Study in the Teen Center. SEE AREA CHURCHES, PAGE 10

Taking Care of Each Other FIRST WEEK OF THE MONTH

AmTec 241 Venture Dr., Amery Phone 715-268-8146

“Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against anyone among your people, but love your neighbor as yourself.” Leviticus 19:18 NIV

Carlson SV CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS 301 Keller Ave. S., Amery 715-268-7999

I

n the nineteenth chapter of Leviticus there are some interesting remarks about how we should care for our fellow man. In addition to the well-known commandments to honor our father and mother, and to not lie or steal, we are told the following: “Do not curse the deaf or put a stumbling block in front of the blind, but fear your God.” (Leviticus 19:14 NIV) And a little further on we are instructed “Do not do anything that endangers your neighbor’s life.” (Leviticus 19:16 NIV) A careful reading of this chapter of the Bible reveals that almost everything we need to know is there concerning the care of our fellow man, and proper behavior in general, from issues of justice, to proper behavior towards our families and the less fortunate and even what we might consider rules of etiquette. Many of the rules of etiquette haven’t changed much: “Stand up in the presence of the aged, show respect for the elderly and revere your God.” (Leviticus 19:32 NIV) In considering our

These weekly church messages are contributed by the following:

Amery Free Press Your Comunity Newspaper for over 125 years 215 S. Keller Ave., Amery Phone 715-268-8101 behavior, we should of course be asking whether we are breaking any of the ten commandments. But we should also be asking more basic questions. Are we endangering our neighbor’s life, for instance, by drinking and driving, or by driving too fast? Are we putting stumbling blocks in front of the disabled, or cursing them? (That we are told to not curse the deaf indicates that it doesn’t matter if they hear us; we should not be “complaining inwardly” about people with disabilities.) And finally, are we doing our best to act justly and fairly towards everyone, and exercising compassion towards all? -Christopher Simon

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AREA CHURCHES CONTINUED LITTLE FALLS LUTHERAN, 1272 44th Ave., Amery, Lori Peper, pastor 715-268-9577 Wednesday, February 5: 6 pm JAM & Confirmation at Deronda; 7:30 pm NUIC Choir Practice at Deronda. Thursday, February 6: 9 am Deronda Quilting. Friday, February 7: 5-8 pm Befriender Training at Trinity. Saturday, February 8: 8 am - 3 pm Befriender Training at Trinity. Sunday, February 9: 8 am Deronda Worship; 9:30 am Little Falls Worship; 11 am Trinity Worship. Tuesday, February 11: 9 am Parish Staff Meeting at Trinity; 9:30 am Little Falls Quilting; 7 pm NUIC Parish Council at Little Falls. See our website for up-to-date scheduling www.littlefallschurch.net. LIVING WORD CHAPEL, 2746 Hwy 64, Forest, Senior Leaders Sean & Libby Higgins, 715-265-4810, we.are. living.word@gmail.com, www.livingwordchapel.com Sunday: 9 am Breakfast and Fellowship; 10:15 am Service; Nursery and Children’s Church Available. Wednesdays: 6 pm The Study; 7 pm Prayer. Weekly Local Home Groups MENNONITE CHURCH, 1681 6 1/2 St., Co. Hwy. P North, Almena, 715-357-3321 Sunday: 10 am Sunday school, all ages; 10:45 am Sunday worship service; 7:30 am Sunday evening service. MOE LUTHERAN (ELCA), 451 30th St., Clear Lake Sunday: 10 am Fellowship; 11 am Worship; Potluck lunch 2nd Sunday. Men’s Bible Study 2nd Sunday 6 pm. Women’s Bible Study 2nd Thursday 1:30 pm. NEW LIFE COMMUNITY, Amery, Craig Jorgenson, pastor Sunday: 10 am Worship. Tuesday: 6:30 pm Prayer. Wednesday: 6:30 pm Youth. OTTERCREEK CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP, Glenwood City Civic Center, Jason Taylor, pastor Sunday: 10:30 am Worship; Children’s church, childcare provided. Wednesday Night Prayer. OUR LADY OF THE LAKES CATHOLIC, Balsam Lake Father Eugene Murphy, pastor Masses: Saturday 6 pm, Sunday 8:30 am. OUR SAVIOR’S LUTHERAN, 217 Deronda St., Amery, Keith Ruehlow, pastor Wednesday, February 5: 12 pm TableTalkMen; 5 pm Cafe; 5:30 pm Confirmation Classes; 6:15 pm Evening Prayer; 7 pm Choir Practice. Thursday, February 6: 8:30 am Bible Study. Sunday, February 9: 9 am Worship with Holy Communion; 10:15 am Monthly Mission; 10:30 am Large Group Confirmation. Tuesday, February 11: 1 pm Quilting. PRAIRIEVIEW COVENANT, 1396 210th Ave. (2 miles north of New Richmond on 65) Tim Coyer, pastor, www.prairieviewchurch.net Sunday: 9 am Sunday School; 10 am Worship, Nursery care available; Coffee/fellowship after worship service. Wednesday: 6-7:30 pm Family Night, Worship/Groups for all ages. REDEEMER LUTHERAN, 600 S. Keller Ave., Amery, Tom Hahn, pastor Wednesday, February 5: 5:30 pm Confirmation; 7:15 pm Choir Practice. Sunday, February 9: 8:30 am Lay Ministers; 9:30 am Worship, Sunday School; 10:30 am Fellowship; 5 pm Valentines Dinner at Brickfire Bar & Grill. Monday, February 10: 10 am Women’s Bible Study. Tuesday, February 11: 7 pm Parish Planning. REEVE EVANGELICAL FREE, Jct. Barron CTH K & A, Clear Lake, www.reevechurch.org Sunday: 9 am Worship service; 10:15 am Fellowship Time. Wednesday nights: 6:30-7:30 pm Adult Bible Study and Prayer; Kids Club, Jr. & Sr. High Youth Group (Sept.-May). A variety of small groups (AA, men’s & women’s) are also held throughout the week. ST. BARNABAS EPISCOPAL, 365 5th St., Clear Lake, Rev. Geri E. Sola Sunday: 9:15 am Sunday school; 10:15 am Worship. Holy Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday at 10:15 am. Morning Prayer 2nd and 4th Sunday at 10:15 am. ST. CROIX UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP, 201 N. Adams, St. Croix Falls www.scuuf.org Sunday: 10 am First three Sundays. ST. JOHN’S CATHOLIC, Clear Lake, Fr. John Long, pastor Mass: 8 am Wednesday.

OBITUARY Mass: 8 am Thursday. Mass: 8:30 am Sunday. ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC, 1050 Keller Ave. N, Amery, Father Eugene Murphy • 715-268-7717 • stjosephamery.org Wednesday, February 5: 9 am Mass; Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick after Mass. Thursday, February 6: 10:30 am Communion Service at Willow Ridge. Friday, February 7: 9 am Communion Service. Saturday, February 8: 4 pm Mass. Sunday, February 9: Donut Sunday hosted by the Ice Fishing Committee; 10:30 am Mass. Monday, February 10: 12 pm Ladies Lunch at Amery Family Restaurant. Tuesday, February 11: 9 am Communion Service. ST. JOHN LUTHERAN, Forest, John Wilman, pastor Friday, February 7-Saturday, February 8: Pastor’s Day Off. Sunday, February 9: 8 am Worship; 9 am Fellowship. Tuesday, February 11: 1 pm Bible Study. ST. PAUL LUTHERAN, Deer Park, John Wilman, pastor Friday, February 7-Saturday, February 8: Pastor’s Day Off. Sunday, February 9: 9 am Fellowship; 9:30 am Worship. Monday, February 10: Pastor Visiting Shut-Ins. Tuesday, February 11: 6:30 pm Bible Study. SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST, 76 20th Ave., Clear Lake, John Redlich, pastor 715-645-2230; Head Elder Paul Hasman 715-671-3697 Saturday Services: Adult and Children’s Bible Study 9:30 am; Church 11 am Midweek Service: Wednesday 7 pm Call Head Elder for location in winter months. THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS, 644 S. 6th St., Barron, Chapel 715-537-3679 Bishop Kenneth Konesky 715-719-0283 Sunday: 10-11 am Sacrament Meeting; 11:10-Noon Priesthood, Relief Society, Primary, Sunday School. TRINITY LUTHERAN of Garfield, 1578 85th Ave., Amery Lori Peper, pastor 715-268-9577 Wednesday, February 5: 6 pm JAM & Confirmation at Deronda; 7:30 pm NUIC Choir Practice at Deronda. Thursday, February 6: 9 am Deronda Quilting. Friday, February 7: 5-8 pm Befriender Training at Trinity. Saturday, February 8: 8 am - 3 pm Befriender Training at Trinity. Sunday, February 9: 8 am Deronda Worship; 9:30 am Little Falls Worship; 11 am Trinity Worship. Tuesday, February 11: 9 am Parish Staff Meeting at Trinity; 9:30 am Little Falls Quilting; 7 pm NUIC Parish Council at Little Falls. See our website for up-to-date scheduling www.trinitylutheranchurchofamery.com. UNITED COVENANT, 348 5th St. NW, Clear Lake, Dan Pearson, pastor Wednesday, February 5: 5:30 pm All Church Supper; 6 pm Kid’s Blast/CREW/Adult Study; 7 pm Worship Practice T-2. Thursday, February 6: 9 am The Mission Workshop at Church. Friday, February 7: 6:30 pm Movie Night at Church. Sunday, February 9: Potluck Sunday; 8:45 am Sunday School/ Confirmation; 9:30 am Worship Practice T-2; 10 am Worship Service with Potluck Following Service; 5 pm CLAY Valentine Spaghetti Meal. Monday, February 10: 6 pm Leadership Team Meeting. Tuesday, February 11: 8 am Prayer Time; 9:30 Women’s Bible Study. UNITED METHODIST, GLENHILLS PARISH Marybeth Scow, pastor Emerald UMC: 8:30 am Worship with Sunday School. Glenwood City UMC: 9:45 am Worship with Sunday School. Downing UMC: 11 am Worship with Sunday School. WEST IMMANUEL LUTHERAN, ELCA, 447 180th St., Osceola, Pastor Matt Saarem, Interim Pastor, www. westimmanuel.org Wednesday, February 5: 9 am GECC; 1 pm Psalmodikon; 6 pm Confirmation Meal; 6:30 pm Ministry Team; 7 pm Confirmation Class. Thursday, February 6: 6 pm Bible Study at Erik & Karrie’s. Friday, February 7: 6:30 pm AIM 500 Card Party. Sunday, February 9: 9:30 am Worship; 10:30 am Sunday School, Coffee Fellowship, WELCA Meeting. Tuesday, February 11: 11 am Ruth Circle.

Beverly Jean Richmond Beverly Jean Richmond, age 87 of Amery, WI passed away on Sunday, February 2, 2020 at her daughter’s home in Amery. Beverly was born on July 22, 1932 in Stillwater, M MN to Wendolin and Alice ((Pelvit) Schell. Beverly a attended school and gradu uated from high school in S Stillwater. She was united iin marriage to Lawrence H Harvieux in Stillwater and tto this union five children w were born. The family made ttheir home in the Stillwater a area. The marriage would llater end in divorce and B Beverly then moved to Omaha, Nebraska where she met Merle Richmond. The couple was united in marriage in Omaha in the early 1970’s and they continued to live in Omaha. Shortly after Merle’s passing in 1985, Beverly moved to Wisconsin where she continued to live today. Beverly was a member of the Apple River Community Church and enjoyed crafts, all types of puzzles and garage saling. She was preceded in death by her husbands, Lawrence Harvieux and Merle Richmond; her daughter, Darcey Harvieux-Gulbranson; five brothers, two sisters and son in law, Donald Cone. Beverly is survived by her daughter, Roxanne Cone; sons, Michael (Patricia) Harvieux, Thomas (Sandy) Harvieux and Charles (Heidi) Harvieux; a sister, Susie Maslowski; many 13 grand and 29 great grandchildren, as well as other loving relatives and friends. Funeral services will take place at 2:00 pm on Saturday, February 8, 2020 at the Apple River Community Church, 942 US Hwy 8, Amery, with Rev. Bruce Tanner officiating. A visitation will take place one hour prior to the service at the church. A private family interment will take place at St. Michael’s Cemetery in Bayport, MN at a later date. To sign an online guest book and view a video tribute, visit www.williamsonwhite.com. Arrangements were made with the Williamson-White Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Amery. In Lieu of flowers memorials are preferred.

DEATH NOTICES

Dorothy M. Webster Dorothy M. Webster, age 95 of Hudson, died on Wednesday, January 29, 2020 at hometown Senior Living in Hudson, WI. Arrangements are pending with the Williamson-White Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Amery. For further information, please visit www.williamsonwhite.com.

Doreen Frank Doreen Frank, age 68 of Osceola, died on Friday, January 31, 2020 at her sister’s home in Amery. Arrangements are pending with the Williamson-White Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Amery. For further information, please visit www.williamsonwhite.com.

Obituaries are posted online each week at: theameryfreepress.com

Call Nicole at 715-268-8101 or email ngagner@theameryfreepress.com with corrections or additions to the church pages.

FEBRUARY 4, 2020

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OBITUARIES

Joseph Benedict Jilek

Roger F. Bruggeman

Robert Lee Johannsen

Joseph Benedict Jilek, age 74, of River Falls died Friday, January 31, 2020 at Kinnic Health and Rehab in River Falls. He was born the son to John S. and Marie (Sto odola) Jilek on March 9, 11945 in Rice Lake, WI. He g graduated from Rice Lake H High School. Joe attended tthe University of Wisconssin-River Falls where he p played football for four y years and was selected as a an All-American Player. J Joe taught Physical Educattion and Math, including sseveral years as school A Athletic Director and as Assistant School Principal, along with coaching baseball, football, wrestling and track before retiring in 2000 from the Glenwood City school system. He also was a referee for WIAA and a mentor to many officials and students. After 40 years of officiating, Joe was inducted into the National Wrestling Officials Hall of Fame. Joe enjoyed fishing, ice fishing and deer hunting. He is remembered as a sports enthusiast and was a Packer and Badger fan. He loved every minute of attending his sons and grandchildren’s sporting events and did not miss a game. Joe was preceded in death by his parents, John S. and Marie; granddaughter, Alyssa; brother, Tom; sister, Delores; sister-in-law, Anne; and brother-inlaw, Jerry. He is survived by his wife, Renee; sons, Todd (Andrea) and Craig Jilek; grandsons, Daniel, Will and Nicholas Jilek; granddaughter, Delanie Jilek; sisters, Mary Nunke and Helen Jilek; brothers, John and Tony Jilek; brother-in-law, Gene (Cindy) McKahan; sister-in-law, Betty (Lew) Cran; many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. A Mass of Christian Burial was held Tuesday, February 4, 2020 at 10:30 am at St. Bridget Catholic Church (211 E Division St.) in River Falls. Visitation was Monday, February 3, 2020 from 5-8 pm at St. Bridget and on Tuesday from 9:30-10:30 am. Interment was in Greenwood Cemetery. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.

Roger F. Bruggeman, age 81 of River Falls, WI, died on Monday, January 27, 2020 at United Hospital in St. Paul, MN. Roger was born the son of Albert and Ella (Hesse) B Bruggeman on Februa ary 13, 1938 at home near M Mentor, MN. He grew up n near Mentor and attended tthe Mentor schools. As a tteenager, Roger began his c career in farming with h his father. Roger moved to M Milwaukee at the age of 18, w where he met his future w wife, Arlyne Buscher. They w were married September 112, 1959 at St. Matthew’s Church in Oak Creek, WI. In 1961 they moved to River Falls, WI. Roger spent 35 years working at the Ford Motor Company in St. Paul, MN retiring in December of 1997. In retirement, Roger went back to “farming” on their 52acre hobby farm near Amery, WI. On the farm, Roger enjoyed his antique tractors, hunting with family and friends, and just being outside in the woods. Roger served in the Army National Guard and was a member of the Fletcher-Pechacek American Legion Post 121 in River Falls. He was a member of the Moon Lake Thresherman’s Association in Clayton, WI, the River Falls Snowmobile Club, the Moose Lodge and St. Bridget Catholic Church in River Falls. Roger and Arlyne spent 20 winters in Apache Junction, AZ. They enjoyed traveling together, playing cards and following everything their grandsons were involved in. Roger was kind and generous, had a great sense of humor and always loved a good joke. He is preceded in death by his parents, Albert and Ella Bruggeman; and siblings, Elaine Bruggeman, Vivian Preusse, Donavan (Florence) Bruggeman, Harold (Donna) Bruggeman, Dale (Muriel) Bruggeman. Roger is survived by his wife of 60 years, Arlyne Bruggeman; children, Deb (Greg) Sharrow and Scott (Libby) Bruggeman; grandsons, Gregory Sharrow, Zachary Bruggeman; sister, Jeannie (Carmen) Anderson; and many nieces, nephews, relatives and friends. Memorial Mass of Christian Burial will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2020 at 11 am at St. Bridget Catholic Church 211 E Division Street River Falls, WI. Visitation will also be Saturday from 9:30-11 am at the church. Interment will be in Greenwood Cemetery in River Falls, WI. Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.

Robert Lee Johannsen, age 80 of Clear Lake, WI passed away on Wednesday, January 29, 2020 after years of deteriorating health. Robert was born on July 2, 1939 to George and H Helen (Wycoff) Johannsen iin Luck, WI. He attended g grade school in Volga and llater graduated from high sschool in Amery, WI. On N November 11, 1961 he was u united in marriage to Judie S Severson. The couple lived iin the Twin Cities area for a sshort period of time before m moving back to the Amery a area, where he lived on ttheir hobby farm for fifty plus years. Most recently, Bob and Judie were living in Clear Lake, WI. Robert was an over the road truck driver most of his life and enjoyed driving for long periods of time. He loved detailing and adding chicken lights to his semi-tractor. He also enjoyed camping, cutting wood, doing yard work, his Shetland ponies, horses and his dogs and cats. He was an excellent woodworker and liked spending time in his shop and when not in his shop, he enjoyed jigsaw puzzles and always had one being constructed in the house. Bob will be remembered for his sense of humor and sassy wit. Happy Trucking Bob! Robert was preceded in death by his father and mother, George and Helen Johannsen and his brother, Frank Johannsen. He was also preceded in death by his father in law and mother in law, Thomas and Mildred Severson. Robert is survived by his loving wife and partner of 58 years, Judie; his daughter, Kim (Cory) MacKinnon of Balsam Lake, WI; sons, Randy (Juliann) Johannsen of Eau Claire, WI and Thomas Johannsen of Dresser, WI. He was a very proud and loving Grandfather to his grandchildren, Austin, Mason, Kennedy, and Carson Johannsen, Kaitlyn and Connor MacKinnon and Tyler, Ashland and Reid Johannsen; and great grandchildren, Jaxon Julga, Pennelope Johannsen and Joseph and Jayden Johannsen. Also left to mourn are his sisters, Karel LeFebvre of Balsam Lake, WI; Betty (Clarence) Fenton of Frederic, WI; Mary (Ed) Johnson of Rice Lake, WI; and Janice (Rob) Peters of Arizona; a brother, Rick (Gwen) Johannsen of Amery, WI; brothers and sister in law, Bill (Kathy) Severson, Nancy (Mike Hoffman) Severson and Denny (Laura Allen) Severson, as well as other loving relatives and friends. A Celebration of Life will be held on Thursday, February 6, 2020 from 4 to 7 pm at the Williamson-White Funeral Home in Amery. A private family service will be held at a later date. To sign an online guest book and view a video tribute visit www.williamsonwhite.com. Arrangements were made with the Williamson-White Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Amery.

Phyllis Irene Gabrielson Phyllis Irene Gabrielson, age 96 of Balsam Lake, WI died on Sunday, February 2, 2020 at Golden Age Manor in Amery, WI. She was born on March 22, 1923 in Comstock, WI; tthe daughter of Otto and N Nora Freitag. Phyllis was u united in marriage to Roy G Gabrielson on January 25, 11947. She worked for Polk C County for many years and w was active in the communitty. She was very honored to b be the Grand Marshal of the B Balsasm Lake 4th of July P Parade. Phyllis loved to ttravel and had visited many p places including, China, Ireland and Germany as well as many other places. She enjoyed making quilts in the winter and gardening in the summer. She was preceded in death by her husband, Roy Gabrielson; sister, Ella Mae (Freitag) Gabrielson and brothers, Leonard Freitag and Gordon Freitag. Phyllis is survived by her brothers, Ralph (Doris) Freitag and Edward (Julia) Freitag as well as many nieces, nephews and other loving relatives and friends. She will be missed by all. Funeral services will take place at 11:00 am on Monday, February, 10, 2020 at Faith Lutheran Church in Balsam Lake, WI. A visitation will be held from 2 to 5 pm on Sunday, February 9, 2020 at the Williamson-White Funeral Home in Amery, WI, as well as the hour prior to the service at the church. Burial will take place at the Christ Lutheran Pipe Lake Cemetery. To sign an online guest book and view a video slide show, visit www.williamsonwhite.com. Arrangements were made with the Williamson-White Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Amery.

Roger E. Robidou Sr. Roger E. Robidou Sr., 79, of Luck, WI passed away Wednesday, January 29, 2020 at his home after a long, hard-fought battle with prostate cancer. Roger was a dedicated and loving husband, father, g grandfather, great-grandffather, and a friend like no o other. He was a man that h had great advice and could ttell stories all day long. His p presence will be greatly m missed, but we all know h he is still with us daily in sspirit. He proudly served in tthe U.S. Army. He is survived by his lloving wife, Shirley; son, R Roger Robidou Jr. and wife Lori; step-son, Gregg Hammerly and wife Stephanie; grandchildren, Melissa Boumeester (Joe), Molly Zeilinger (Josh), Matthew Robidou, Nicole Robidou; great-grandchildren; and sister, Patricia Kempfer. He is preceded in death by his parents, Harold and Estelle Robidou; son, Joseph; and brother, Richard. A Celebration of his life will be held at Bone Lake Lutheran Church, Luck, WI on Friday, February 7, 2020 – visitation will begin at 10:00 a.m. followed by the service at 11:00 a.m. You are invited to leave condolences, memories and photos at www.rowefh.com . Arrangements are entrusted to Rowe Funeral Home, 715-472-2444 and the Northwest Wisconsin Cremation Center in Milltown.

DEATH NOTICES

Ruth Dueholm Ruth Dueholm, age 104 of Georgetown Township, died on Thursday, January 30, 2020 at Golden Age Manor. Arrangements are pending with the Williamson-White Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Amery. For further information, please visit www.williamsonwhite.com.

Karen F. Barthman Karen F. Barthman, age 75 of Clear Lake, died unexpectedly on Friday, January 31, 2020 at Mayo Health Services in Barron. Memorial Service will be Saturday, February 15 at 11 a.m. at Moe Lutheran Church in Clear Lake. Visitation will be 1 hour before the service at the church and Friday, February 14 from 4 to 7 p.m. at Scheuerman-Hammer Funeral Home in Clear Lake. Arrangements are being made with Scheuerman-Hammer Funeral Home in Clear Lake. www. clearlakefuneralhome.com.

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VALENTINE’S SPECIALS

AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 4, 2020

www.theameryfreepress.com

All You Need Is Love...

“Join us on Beautiful Pike Lake”

Valentine’s Dinner

but flowers and gifts from Balsam Lake Pro-Lawn can help!

Friday & Saturday

Valentines Day • February 14, 2020

February 14 & 15

Order off the regular menu which includes a special dessert and a glass of champagne! MAKE YOUR DINNER RESERVATIONS EARLY!

CONTACT US 715-485-3131 www.balsamlakeprolawn.com

One mile north of Amery on Hwy. 46, 1/2 mile west on Cty. Rd. H Phone 715-268-8774

Friday, Feb. 14 Lime Margaritas $3.00 Other Flavored Margaritas $3.50 FREE dessert for couples Mexican Restaurant & Bar

OPEN: Sun.-Thurs. 11 a.m.-9 p.m., Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m.-10 p.m.

Real Authentic Mexican Food Daily Food Specials

AMERY Hwy. 46/Keller Ave.

337 Keller Ave. South, Amery, WI 715-268-9801 www.garibaldismexicanrestaurant.com

+ Co. Rd. F

Sweetheart Special! Buy One Menu Item and receive a Second Menu Item FREE Mention this ad to receive this Sweetheart Special Friday & Saturday, February 14 & 15

LADIES NIGHT AT WORN AGAIN THRIFT STORE

Thursday, February 13 • 5-7 pm Located next door to Chet’s in downtown Amery

A night of pampering, hors d’oeuvres and vendors (Color Street Nails, Massage, Mary Kay & More!

HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6 a.m.-8 p.m. Sun. 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

See how you can buy a complete outfit for under $15! Worn Again Thrift Store • 207 Keller Ave N • Amery • 715-268-6080 • Find us on Facebook

NEWSPAPER FUN

FEBRUARY 4, 2020

AMERY FREE PRESS

13

www.theameryfreepress.com

...of our friends and classmates.

We’re making Valentines for all...

Newspaper Fun! www.readingclubfun.com

Kids: color stuff in!

Annimills LLC © 2020 V16-5

Happy Valentine’s Day! Good Fun and Good Business too!

Lo ve

4 6. Red roses are thought to be the most romantic Whew! I’ve been delivering and the most popular kind given on Valentine’s Day. Valentine surprises all day long. 3 I’m tired, but happy because it’s 7. The first type of this gift may have been 1 2 made out of shells and bones. Ancient nice that so many people care lovebirds 7 Egyptians gave this gift made out about other people and want to 6 of gold with precious stones to kings. 5 Read these clues to fill in send them nice Valentines! 8. Some people will go to the crossword to discover poem ic s plays or comedy ______. the most popular gifts given on Valentine’s Day: mus 9. These sugary messages were invented by 1. Poetry and fun Valentine stories will Sweet 8 Oliver Chase in 1847. Today, the Necco fly off store and library shelves. company makes about 100,000 10 2. The first box, introduced by Richard Cadbury, had rts y hea d n pounds of these a day! a c 9 a painting of his daughter holding a kitten on its flow 10. People will create special cover. Later, he created the first heart-shaped box. 12 ers 13 memories attending heart 3. These used to be made by hand and delivered parent/child or other in person. Now they are machine-made and 11 family ______. about one billion are mailed all over the world. elry w Can you find e j 11. Bakeries will sell cakes, 4. These snuggly birds, along with doves, have s k and circle 12 or cupcakes and Valentine ______. boo been popular to give or use in designs for 14 more words that 12. The oldest of these is thought Valentine’s Day. Each year, Fort Worth Zoo have 3 syllables to be the one discovered on a in Texas lets people add a “wild child” to their cookies as in the word s family by buying a Valentine’s Day (skunk, penguin) clay tablet written about 4,000 years show ¸=HS࠮LU࠮[PUL¹& or other adoption package. The money ago (from a priestess to a king). cards raised goes to care for animals. 13. People will enjoy this meal out. lates es 5. People will sell a lot of pizza, doughnuts 14. People will buy tickets to listen to choco dinn danc er and other food items in this shape. romantic ______ at concert halls. 96 There are 97 94 so many 95 93 92 special 91 90 88 deliveries 89 86 87 to be 84 85 made on 82 83 Valentine’s Day 80 81 that the Post 78 79 Office gets 76 77 extra help to 75 74 73 72 bring the mail. 66

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Hearty Sayings! Match these sayings to their meanings: 1. change of heart 2. cross my heart 3. eat your heart out 4. half-hearted 5. heart of gold 6. heart of stone 7. have your heart set on something 8. having a heart-to-heart 9. take something to heart 10. to your heart’s content 11. heart is in the right place 12. heart skips a beat

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Be Mine

A. is kind and caring B. to want something a certain way and not be willing to work out a different way to do it C. make an important promise D. very uncaring E. not giving something your full effort F. take something very personally G. to make someone jealous H. frightened or excited I. as much as you want J. change your mind K. meant well L. have a meaningful talk

ANSWERS FOR NEWSPAPER FUN ON PAGE 29.

Looking For Sponsorship Opportunities? Welcome to ‘Newspaper Fun’ – a weekly learning & puzzle feature aimed at young readers! To advertise, please contact Pam at the Amery Free Press 715-268-8101 • phumpal@theameryfreepress.com

14 AMERY FREE PRESS

COMMUNITY

FEBRUARY 4, 2020

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COOKING WORLD Tidbit: The time is always right to do the right thing. (Martin Luther King, Jr.) Carolyn C l Lumsden L d 715-483-9738

These lemon cookies starts with a cake mix. They are light and has a

tropical flavor.

LEMON COCONUT CLOUD COOKIES Combine well: 1 box (18.25 oz. – regular size) lemon cake mix 1-1/2 c. frozen whipped topping, thawed 1 egg 1/2 c. shredded coconut Place 1/4 c. powdered sugar into a shallow dish. Take a tablespoon of dough and roll into a ball, roll it into the powdered sugar to coat and put onto a sprayed/greased cookie sheet. Do that with all the dough. Bake at 350˚ for 8-10 minutes or until light brown around he edges of the cookies. Let cool on cookie sheet for 5 minutes, then remove to wire racks to finish cooling. Makes about 2 dozen cookies. This is yet another impossible type pie.

IMPOSSIBLY EASY VEGETABLE PIE Heat about 1" water in saucepan and add: 2 c. chopped fresh broccoli or sliced fresh cauliflower (or combo of each) Cook for about 5 minutes or until almost tender. Drain well. Stir together: the cooked and drained broccoli/cauliflower 1/3 c. chopped onions 1/3 c. chopped green bell pepper 1/2 c. shredded cheddar cheese Put mixture into a sprayed/greased 9” deep dish pie plate. Combine well and pour over the above: 1/2 c. baking mix (or Bisquick original) 1 c. milk 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper 2 eggs Bake at 400˚ for 35-45 minutes or until golden and knife inserted in center comes out clean. Cool 5 minutes on wire rack and serve. Serves about 6. These brownies are extra special. Use a store-bought brownie mix or your own and add the rest of the ingredients for a special treat everyone will enjoy.

S’MORES POKE BROWNIES Prepare according to directions in recipe on on box for a 9x13" amount of brownies: 1 box (18.3 oz. ) fudge brownie mix (if using store-bought brownie mix Bake according to directions and then cool for 30 minutes. Using a wooden spoon handle, poke holes in brownies about an inch apart, going all the way to the bottom of the pan. In MW safe bowl, melt (about 30 seconds): 1 cup marshmallow crème Stir until smooth and add, then stir to combine: 3 T. water Pour this mixture over the baked and cooled brownies and let stand 30 minutes more. Spread on top of the marshmallow topping: One-half of a jar (12) oz. hot fudge topping Put on top: 1 c. broken graham crackers 2 c. mini marshmallows Put under broiler about 4-6” from the heat and heat for 2-3 minutes or until marshmallows are lightly browned (watch closely). Drizzle with the remaining hot fudge topping. Cut into squares when ready. Serves up to 16.

2 T. dried marjoram 2 T. dried rosemary 2 T. dried oregano 2 tsp. garlic powder 2 T. dried lavender (optional) Put into an airtight container and use when you want. It will last well for about 3 months. Many people like the taste of tacos. This casserole contains ground beef and beans so it is nutritious, too.

BEAN AND BEEF TACO CASSEROLE Brown in 12" skillet, stirring to separate and cook until done, drain off any fat: 1 pound lean ground beef Stir in: 1 can (16 oz.) refried beans 1 jar (16 oz.) thick and chunky salsa 1 pkg. (3 oz.) taco seasoning mix Heat mixture to boiling, stirring occasionally. Put into ungreased 2 quart casserole: 2 c. broken tortilla chips Put the ground beef mixture on top. Sprinkle with: 1/2 medium green bell pepper (chopped – 3/4 c.) 4 medium green onions, sliced (1/4 c.) 1 c. chopped tomatoes 1 c. shredded cheddar or Monterey Jack cheese 1/4 c. sliced ripe olives Bake, uncovered, at 350˚ for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbling and cheese is melted. Remove from oven and sprinkle on top: 1/2 c. chopped tomatoes 1 c. shredded lettuce 1/2 c. broken tortilla chips Serves about 4. Tips: If you have any kind of leftover meat or meat loaf, make some gravy and put the meat on toast or cooked noodles. Pour the gravy over the meat and cooked noodles or toast. Add a vegetable or salad and you have a meal.

leftover waffles or pancakes and freeze them, dating the freezer bags. When ready to use them, reheat in toaster or microwave. To make potato patties, add 1 egg to 1 c. mashed potatoes. Shape into patties and fry in butter until both sides are browned.

Laughter’s Choice Laughter, what a gift we’re given, good for psyche, also health. Interchange by good will driven, lacking it, how empty wealth. Oh, the good of lively humor, lifting heaviness of cares, not exalting gibe or rumor, one partaking, better fares. Laughter punctuating friendship, meeting of the minds affirm, sharing of the comprehend-ship, fellowship that grows long term. How we flinch at laugh’s derision, disapproval in extreme, easier to bear collision than the scoffer’s laser beam. Compounded is the affirmation, when warm laughter is combined; hearty the appreciation, smiles, connection to remind. So, we laud the kind of laughter that will buoyant vibes employ. The state of mind that follows after, lifts and lilts and sings with joy. Carol Morfitt Welch

If you make pancakes or waffles from scratch, cook them all. When done, put waxed paper between any

SUNDAY

MONDAY

TUESDAY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

WEDNESDAY

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

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6-8 pm Pickleball/ Open Gym at Amery High School (through March)

6:30 pm Bingo at the VFW Hall 7 pm Amery Boys Ice Hockey vs Eau Claire Regis at Hobbs Ice ArenaAltoona 7:15 pm Amery Girls Basketball vs St Croix Central

5:45 pm Clear Lake Girls Basketball vs Northwood 5:45 pm Clayton Boys Basketball vs Turtle Lake 7:15 pm Amery Boys Basketball vs Ellsworth 7:15 pm Amery Girls Basketball at Elk Mound 7:15 pm Clear Lake Boys Basketball vs Northwood 7:15 pm Clayton Girls Basketball vs Turtle Lake

9 am Amery Wrestling Tournament at New Richmond 7 pm Amery Boys Ice Hockey vs Menomonie 10 am Clear Lake Wrestling Tournament vs Flambeau, Bruce, Cornell/Gilman/ Lake Holcombe, Luck/Frederic/ Grantsburg/Siren, Shell Lake, Turtle Lake/Clayton, Unity at Flambeau

February 5 February 15, 2020 *All events marked with an asterisk are located at the Amery Community Center.

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1:30-3:30 pm Basketball Winter Rec for Youth & Families at Amery Middle School gym (through March 15)

7 pm Indianhead Barbershop Chorus meets at the Polk County Government Center in Balsam Lake 5:45 pm Clayton Girls Basketball vs Luck

11-11:45 am Rumble Jumble Open Gym at Intermediate School gym (through March when school is in session) 7:15 pm Amery Girls Basketball vs New Richmond

6-8 pm Pickleball/ Open Gym at Amery High School (through March)

8:15 am Amery Housing Authority Meeting at the AHA Office 5:30 pm Polk County Democrats at the Dresser Pizzeria 6:30 pm Bingo at the VFW Hall 7:15 pm Amery Boys Basketball at New Richmond 7 pm Amery Boys Ice Hockey at Grantsburg

7:15 pm Amery Girls Basketball at Somerset 5:45 pm Clear Lake Boys Basketball at Shell Lake 7:15 pm Clear Lake Girls Basketball at Shell Lake 5:45 pm Clayton Boys Basketball at Northwood 7:15 pm Clayton Girls Basketball at Northwood

10 am Amery Wrestling WIAA Regional at Somerset

SPONSORED BY:

Maybe you’d like to make your own Italian Seasoning.

HOMEMADE ITALIAN SEASONING Combine well: 1/4c. dried basil 2 T. dried thyme

Amery • 715-268-7161 Member FDIC

For All Your Communications Needs 715-268-7101

265 Griffin St. E, Amery Phone (715) 268-8000 www.amerymedicalcenter.org

COMMUNITY

FEBRUARY 4, 2020

AMERY FREE PRESS

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AMERY AREA COMMUNITY CENTER What can we do in our everyday lives to find and give Grace? Grace is defined as courteous goodwill by the dictionary. There are some simple steps we can take in order to practice grace in our everyday lives. According to whatchristianswanttoknow.com there are 10 ways to show grace. We can show grace with words, look for the needs of others, respond with grace, have a graceful presence, forgive with grace, learn to say “I’m sorry,” keep short accounts (don’t keep a running tally of when one has done you wrong.), use gentle words, and take interest in others. These are all easy things we can start practicing each and every day, even if we only start with one and work our way to more. What are you going to do to share grace today? Then & Now: We would love it if you would share a picture of you from when you were young; such as your senior photo and a current photo as well. We will hang them in the center to share with all our members. Call or stop in and see Jen for more details. 2020 Memberships are due! Stop in and See Jen or Amanda to pay your dues and update your information. • Are you looking for a place to host a graduation party or family gathering such as a birthday party?? Did you know for the cost of $150 (as a member) or $200 (for non-member) you can rent the Amery Area Community Center for birthday parties, weddings, or anniversary

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celebrations, even end of life celebrations? This cost includes the rental of the main hall and use of commercial kitchen. We will also work with profit and nonprofit organizations to help with the perfect meeting place. Call 715-268-6605 for available dates. Do you volunteer around our community? Did you know that by telling us your volunteer hours it helps gain grant dollars by showing how active our members are? Please email Jen at aaccjen@ outlook.com or call 715-268-6605 with your hours each month, thank you! Circuit Breaker Members, every month you pay your $10 you will get a punch on our new card and after you have paid for 5 months you get 1 month FREE! That means you will receive 2 FREE months per year! This is our way of saying your health is important to us! Did you know we have all kinds of greeting cards for sale here? They are twenty-five cents per card and sympathy cards are one dollar. Stop in and check out our variety! Like us on Facebook! Share our postings the more people that know what activities we have happening the better! Search Amery Area Community/Senior Center Want to get a complete workout in just 30 minutes? Do you enjoy walking on a treadmill?

Get all of that for just $10/month if you are a member of the Amery Area Community Center. Our hours are 7am-4:30pm M-Th & 7am-3pm on Fridays. There are no contracts to lock into and no hidden fees. Come down and check us out! • We always have people asking if there is anything we need here at the Center. We can always use things like stamps, cards, toilet paper, cleaning supplies & baking supplies. We also take rummage sale items all year long. • Monday January 27th Bridge winners are Dean Elken in first and Joann Hallquist placed second. • Tuesday January 28th Pool winners are Dean Elken in first, Gary Snelling with second, Jean Frank took third, Carl Johnson with fourth and Gene Pribnow with the consolation prize. • Wednesday January 29th Bridge winners are Bernie Peterson with first, John Nelson in second, and Sue Saarem and Joann Hallquist tied for third. • Thursday January 30th Pool winners are Gary Snelling in first, Mary Fisher placed second and Gene Pribnow with third, Carl Johnson placed fourth and Janet Delong took the consolation prize. Congratulations to all! Amanda Fisk, Director Jen Tyman, Assistant Director

SELF HELP GROUPS Advance Directive Workshop. Who would make your healthcare decisions in the event you are unable to? How would this person know what decisions you would want made? Learn more about Advance Directives and how to complete them. Free Advance Directive Workshop will be held the first Wednesday of the month from 10-11 a.m. Wisconsin and Minnesota Advance Directives will be available. Call St. Croix Regional Medical Education Services at 715-483-0431 or 800-642-1336 ext. 2431 to register. Alanon/Alateen (for family and friends of alcoholics) meets Thursday nights 7-8 p.m. at First Lutheran church, Amery. 715-268-8362. Alcoholics Anonymous meets every Monday 7 p.m., Wednesday 10 a.m., Thursday 7 p.m., Friday 7 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m., Sunday 7 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 217 Deronda St., Amery. 715-781-4380 Jason. Alcoholics Anonymous (AA) Tuesdays 7 p.m. at Clear Lake Community Center, VFW Room 123. Richard 715-554-7277, Teresa 612-636-3244. Alcoholics Anonymous meets Monday at noon B.B., Thursdays 10 a.m. at Parkview Methodist church, Turtle Lake. Contact Mike 715-986-2457. Alzheimer’s Support Group. First Wednesday of the month 10 a.m. at Amery Senior Center. Last Tuesday of month 1 p.m. at Good Sam Nursing Home. Sharlene Bellefaille 715-635-6601. Baby & Me. Weekly play and discussion hour for parents and their infants (birth to 12 months). Wednesdays 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Amery Hospital & Clinic, BirthDay Suites Waiting Room. Join at any time. No charge. The Baby Bistro: Breastfeeding Support Group. This free support group encourages, helps and supports women before, during and after breastfeeding. Led by a certified breastfeeding counselor, who is also a registered nurse and a mother of four, attendees learn from, share with, and support other mothers who are breastfeeding. Pregnant women who are considering breastfeeding are strongly encouraged to attend. Every Wednesday from 9 to 10:30 a.m. at Amery Hospital & Clinic, Boardroom, 2nd floor. No fee, no registration required, just stop by. Breast Feeding Support Group. All nursing mothers and babies are invited to participate. Group meets the second Thursday of the month from 10-11:30 a.m. and the fourth Thursday of the month from 6:30-8 p.m. at St. Croix Regional Medical Center. An International Board Certified Lactation Consultant will facilitate the group. Call 715-483-0431 or 800-642-1336 ext. 2431. No charge. C.H.A.D.D. (Children with Attention Deficit Disorder). Parent support group meets the fourth Monday of each month at Firstar Bank board room, Cumberland, 7 p.m. For information call Pat Skinner at 715-822-8422 and leave message. Cancer, Grief & Depression Support Group. A

support group to allow people to talk about their experiences with cancer, grief and depression as well as share mutual support to one another. Second Tuesday of every month at Amery Area Community Center at 1 p.m. You can join at any time and it is free and open to the public. Cancer Support Group meets the second Tuesday of the month at the Amery Public Library at 6 p.m. Caregiver Support Group meets the third Tuesday of every month from 2-3:30 p.m. at the Peace Lutheran Church in Dresser. Contact Barb at ADRC of NW WI at 877-485-2372 for more information. Christian Based Cancer Support Group meets Wednesdays the third Wednesday of the month at the Amery Public Library meeting room at 10 a.m. Everyone is welcome! For more information call 715-268-6957. Compassionate Friends, Tri- County Chapter meets the first Monday of each month at 7 p.m. First Lutheran church, Clear Lake. This group offers support and understanding to families who are grieving the death of a child of any age, from any cause. For more information call 715-263-2739 Domestic Violence (DV) and Sexual Assault (SA) Support Groups and Services. Polk County - S.T.A.R.S. (Surviving Trauma Advocacy Resource Group) Monday 4-5 p.m. in Amery, Tuesday 6-7 p.m. in Osceola, Wednesday 2-3 p.m. in Milltown and Thursday 6-7 p.m. in Milltown. Domestic Violence Education Class every other Wednesday from 10-noon in Milltown. Burnett County - Monday 4-5 p.m. 715-349-7272. Barron County - Thursday 5:30-6:30 p.m. 715-651-4969. For more information call CRA 715-825-4414 or the 24 hour crisis line 1-800-261-7233. All groups are held every week unless noted. Child care is available with some groups. Ask your facilitator prior to the group meeting. Early Stage Alzheimer Support Group. For the diagnosed person and their caregiver. Challenges in early-stage dementia will be discussed, along with therapeutic benefits of family involvement. Sponsored in part by the American Alzheimer’s Association. Meetings are free of charge and open to the public, held at the Amery Centennial Hall the first Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. Call 715-268-6605 to register. Epilepsy Foundation of Western Wisconsin. Call 1-800-924-2105. Family Child Care Professionals Network. Meets the third Thursday of each month. Contact Beth Neely at 715-483-1482 for more information. All family child care providers are welcome. Families and Parenting. Milltown Parenting Group meets Wednesdays from 1-2 p.m., Milltown Family Group has dinner from 5-5:30 p.m. and F.U.N. from 5-6 p.m. on Thursdays. For more information call CRA 715-825-4414. All groups are held every week unless noted. Child care is available with some groups. Ask your facilitator prior to the group meeting.

Farm Crisis. Information on financial, mental health, legal, job retraining resources. Call 1-800-942-2474. Golden Age Manor Family Council meets the first Saturday of the month at 10 a.m. in the east wing sunporch. GAM is Polk County’s longest operating longterm healthcare facility. The Family Council’s goal is to enhance the lives of the residents beyond what the staff normally does. Grief Share. Have you lost someone close? Grief Share is a Christian based, non-denominational seminar/support group program that will be meeting at Centennial Hall in Amery every Monday at 1 p.m. For information call Bruce 715-268-2176 or 715-268-8360. GriefShare, a non-denominational special help seminar and support group for people experiencing the loss of a loved one is being held at St. Joseph Catholic Church in Amery on Thursdays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The church is located at 1050 Keller Ave. N. GriefShare features nationally recognized experts on grief recovery topics. Seminar sessions include “Is This Normal?” “The Challenges of Grief,” “Grief and Your Relationships,” “Why?” and “Guilt and Anger.” For more information call St. Joseph Catholic church at 715-268-7717. Head Injury Support Group. Closed head injury, stroke, aneurism or traumatic brain injury which affects your daily living? Learn to cope with your disabilities, provide insight and camaraderie. Second Friday of each month 2-3:30 p.m. Frederic Public Library. Contact Julie Martin 715-327-4474. Memory Cafe. Do you or your loved one have memory concerns or early signs of dementia? Join us at the Amery Memory Cafe where individuals with memory concerns and their care partners, family and friends can laugh, learn and stay connected in a safe atmosphere. The Memory Cafe meets at the Amery Area Community Center the 3rd Thursday of each month from 1-2:30 p.m. Please RSVP to Barb at the ADRC of NW WI at 877-485-2372. Memory Cafe is free to attend, and coffee and snacks are provided. Moms in Prayer International. •Two or more women who meet regularly to pray for their children, their schools, their teachers and administrators. •Mothers, grandmothers or anyone who is willing to pray for a specific child and school. We meet at the Journey Church, 131 Broadway St., Amery, Mondays from 1:302:30 p.m. Contact Jen at 715-268-2223 with questions. (only meets during the school year.) MOPS and MOMsnext (Mothers of Preschoolers) is a group for moms and their kids. Every mom who is pregnant or has a child at home is welcome, accepted, and challenged to meet her potential. Better moms make a better world! For more info go to clmops@hotmail.com. PEPTalk - P(arents)E(ncouraging)P(arents)... exists to encourage, support, and build up a community of homeschool families in Polk County, Wisconsin. We welcome all types of homeschooling families to check

us out! PEPTalk activities happen throughout the month. For more information contact Jenn Dueholm, jenndueholm@yahoo.com or Wendy Dietrich, thedietrichs@amerytel.net. Like us on Facebook under PEPTalk. Polk County Parent-To-Parent Coaliton, a network for parents of children from birth through adulthood who have disabilities or other special needs. For more information about meetings and advocacy support, contact Lynne 715-472-2002. PREGNANT. Need help? Our tests and help are free and confidential. 715-755-BABY (2229). Osceola Life Care Center. Student Assistance Program is for students in the Amery school district who may be having personal or family problems. Strict confidentiality is followed except in cases of danger to self or others. Call 715-2680303 for middle school S.A.P. members or 715-2680214 for high school S.A.P. members. TEENS—Talk before you run. Trained counselors will listen. 1-800-491-8336 or 715-235-8882. TEENCARE. Where teens get help fast. 1-800-4918336. TOPS Club meets Tuesdays 3:30-5 p.m. at the Balsam Lake Municipal Building (under the water tower), Balsam Lake. Contact Sheila 715-857-5892 or just come to a meeting. TOP’s mission is to support our members as they take off and keep off pounds sensibly. Tutors: Free tutors are available to anyone who would like help studying for GED, English as a Second Language (ESL), or with basic skills in reading or math. Call 715-405-7323 to be matched with a local tutor. Weight Loss Club meets Thursdays 8-9 a.m. Our Savior’s Lutheran church, 217 Deronda St., Amery. Bonnie Timm 715-268-2980. Western Wisconsin LYME Education and Support Group meets: fourth Thursday of the month (April through October) at 7 p.m. at Our Savior’s Lutheran church, 217 Deronda St., Amery. (No meetings November through March). Meetings are free of charge and open to the public. For info call Ann 715-268-2856, Paula 715-268-2035, Bonnie 715-268-9557, Sue 715268-6687. Women’s Spiritual Growth Group meets each Thursday from 7-8 p.m. at 931 Pine St., St. Croix Falls. Yoga for Addiction Recovery Y12SR is a 12 step based discussion and yoga practice that is open to anyone and everyone dealing with their own addictive behavior or affected by the addictive behavior of others. All A's are welcome. Great Blue Yoga, 113 Keller Ave N 54001, 6:45 p.m., Tuesdays.

Call Nicole at 715-268-8101 or email ngagner@theameryfreepress.com with additions or corrections.

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AMERY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY Winter Reading for Kids & Teens: Jan 2-Feb 29. Sign up for the winter reading challenge and read to earn a free book! Reading logs are available at the library. Drive-In Movie - No School Day!: Monday, Feb 18 (10:30 am). All ages. Decorate a cardboard box to look like a car, then park it to watch a movie on our big screen. We’ll be watching Cars (c)Disney Pixar. Popcorn, drinks, and car-making materials provided. Registration required (amerylibrary.org/kids), but drop-ins welcome if space permits. Family Game Night: Thursdays, Feb 13 & Mar 12 (5:00 pm) at The Village Pizzeria. Meet us at the Village Pizzeria to play board games for folks of all ages – kids to adults – families and singles – all are welcome! Drop-in event; no registration needed. Storytime: Wednesdays, weekly; Jan 8-Feb 26 (10:30 am). All ages. Stories, music, action rhymes, and a craft! Drop-in program; no registration. Art Club for Kids: Second Monday, monthly (4:00 pm). Grades 4K-2. Registration required (amerylibrary.org/kids). Tween Art Remix: Second Tuesday, monthly (4:00 pm). Grades 3-5. Registration required (amerylibrary. org/kids). Homeschool Club: (9:30 & 10:30 am). 2nd Friday, monthly. All ages. 9:30-10:30 am: Stories for younger kids. 10:30-11:30 am: Teen/Tween activity (strong readers in grades 3+). Drop-in; no registration. Board Games for Kids & Teens: Did you know we have a selection of board games always available for kids, teens, and families to play in the library? Check the Exploration Lab in Youth Services and the game shelf in the Young Adult area and find a game to play! Teens: New furniture has arrived in the Teen area so you can hang with friends, work on a project, or play a game. Let us know what you think of the new space, and be sure to answer the question on the white board! Exploration Lab: Build, explore, and discover in the Exploration Lab in Youth Services. From Strawbees to Magnatiles, and Magnetic Poetry to insect speci-

mens, there’s something to keep kids’ minds busy! Baby/Toddler Zone: New puzzles and toys have been added to the Baby/Toddler Zone! Stop in today and let your little one explore animal stackers, sensory items, transportation puzzles, soft building cubes, and more. New Books!: Our New Books Bin (below the big bulletin board) showcases the newest additions to our picturebook and early reader collections. And the New Books Display in our J-Room house the newest additions in juvenile nonfiction, fiction, and graphic novels. Stop in today and find a new favorite title. Our newest Teen books are also on display–from fiction and graphic novels, to nonfiction–you’ll find them all in the Teen department. Books & Brews: Join our “off-campus” book club! We will meet on Thursday, February 6th at 6 PM @ Amery Ale Works. This month we are discussing the classic family saga The Good Earth by Pearl Buck. The Library even handles check-outs and returns at the meeting! Join us for great books, great conversations, and a great brew-pub.

Galentine’s Day Party! Saturday, February 8th from 11 AM to 1 PM: Thanks to the character Leslie Knope of the TV show Parks and Recreation, we have a new holiday to celebrate the importance of female friendships! Grab your gal pals and join us at the library on Saturday, February 8th from 11 AM to 1 PM. Join us for an open-house style gal party, complete with very special food, drinks, and crafts. And chocolate-there will be chocolate! The event is FREE but you do need to register on our website to reserve your spot! Ages 18 and over, please. Don›t delay-limited space available!

Family Game Nights @ The Village Pizzeria in Amery: Beat the winter blues and join Erin and Heather at Village Pizzeria for lots of games and fun. There›s two more dates left to join: We›ll meet Thursday February 13th, and Thursday March 12 from 5-7 PM. Don’t miss the chance to enjoy an evening with your friends and family while checking out the library’s awesome selection of games. Free event, no registration required.

Winter Reading & Hygge Challenge! Join the Amery Area Public Library for a challenge designed to help us all get through the winter with more happiness and coziness in our lives! Starting Thursday, January 2, 2020, pick up a Bingo Card and work your way through it until the last day of February. Win little prizes with every “Bingo” completed and also get a raffle ticket each time to enter to win a grand prize! Grand Prize drawing will take place on March 1, 2020. Happy Hygge-days! Book discussion group The Friends of the Library Book Discussion Group meets on the third Monday of the month at 1:30 PM. The title for February is A Woman of No Importance by Sonia Purnell .

Book sales The Friends of the Library Book Sale will be held on Thursday, March 5th from 4:00-6:30 PM. “Friends of the Library” may shop early (from 3-4). The Book Sale will also be held Saturday, March 7th from 9:00 AM - 1:30 PM.

Friends The Friends of the Amery Area Public Library Foundation meets on the third Monday of the month at 4:30 PM. Meetings are open to all members and to the public.

E-books, e-audiobooks and digital magazines Your MORE library card gives you access to the Overdrive collection of e-books, e-audiobooks, and streaming videos; the Freading collection of e-books; and the Flipster downloadable magazine collection.

Check out the website Check out the library website at amerylibrary.org, or find us on Facebook at facebook.com/amerylibrary.

Hours Library hours are Monday through Thursday 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM, Friday 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM, and Saturday 9:00 AM – 2:00 M

Satisfy your Valentine’s sweet tooth this year with a DQ Cake!

$4 OFF 8” or 10” DQ cake Expires 2/29/2020 Good at the Amery location only • 221 Keller Ave S

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Zunker looking to change the landscape of Washington D.C. BY JASON SCHULTE BALDWIN BULLETIN

Change is needed in Washington, D.C., says Tricia Zunker. Zunker is running as a Democratic candidate for the Special Election of the Wisconsin 7th Congressional District seat, vacated by the resignation of Sean Duffy. Zunker, who is endorsed by the Wisconsin Democratic Party, stopped by the St. Croix County Democratic office in Baldwin Saturday before making stops in Hudson and New Richmond. The primary election is Feb. 18 with the General Election May 12. “When I’m elected, I’ll be the first Native American, specifically, Ho-Chunk, representing Wisconsin in Congress,” Zunker said. “I would also be the first Woman representing the Wisconsin 7th, which is long overdue. “I would also double the population of single parents in Congress…We need to achieve a government that is reflective of society.” Zunker was born and raised in the Wausau area. She has the background of union membership and dairy farmers on her mother’s side and Ho-Chunk on her father’s side. She graduated from UW-Madison and was then accepted to UCLA Law School. She explained to the crowd Saturday she wanted UCLA because of its Indian law and tribal legal development program. Which would come in handy for the first big election in Zunker’s life. In a special election in 2013, while still practicing law in California, she flew back to Wisconsin to campaign for Associate Justice on the Ho-Chunk Supreme Court. “There are 11 federal recognized tribes in Wisconsin and Ho-Chunk is the only one without reservation land,” Zunker explained, noting she had to travel different parts of the state, one week after another. She won the special election and was reelected to the position four years later. Now, back in Wisconsin and specifically the Wausau area, it led to the second biggest election. Zunker found it “heartbreaking” that students who were on the free/reduced lunch meal in the School District had no

idea when they’re getting their next meal over the weekend before returning to school Monday. Not getting the responses she wanted on a federal level, she decided to try and make a difference on the local level by campaigning for a seat on the Wausau School Board. She was elected in 2018 and now serves as its President. Zunker is campaigning for this election on three central issues – Healthcare, the Farm Crisis and Education. “Healthcare is a right – no one should die because they can’t afford to go to the doctor,” she said. “Lowering the cost of prescription drugs is a top priority so no one goes bankrupt because they can’t afford their medication.” As for the farm crisis, she says, “Our rural communities are enduring hardship and stress at alarming rates. We must fight for fair, competitive markets and enforce our trade agreements.” And finally, for education, she believes, “Higher education must be made accessible and affordable. We need to begin to tackle the growing student debt crisis. We need to continue to encourage affordable community colleges and trade schools. We should also be promoting jobs in the skilled trades and technical field.” She also told the crowd, she hasn’t or won’t accept PAC money. “I’ll be accountable to the people and the people only,” she said. Running for the 7th District seat was something which was on Zunker’s mind for a while she said. The 2022 election was her first thought, but after a month of thinking, she changed her mind and decided the time was now. The special election was caused when Duffy, the incumbent in the District since 2011, resigned last year so he could spend more time with his family as his ninth child, who was born in October, had a heart condition. Zunker’s challenger in February will be Lawrence Dale of Eagle River. The Republican primary will also have two people on the ballot – State Sen. Tom Tiffany of Minocqua and Jason Church of Hudson. Whoever wins in May won’t have long to

celebrate the win. They’ll have to run again in November with the rest of the United States House of Representatives.

JASON SCHULTE | BALDWIN BULLETIN

Tricia Zunker talking with visitors who stopped by the St. Croix County Democratic Office Saturday in Baldwin, including John Calabrese, the Democratic nominee for Wisconsin’s 29th Assembly District.

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SNOW WEEK

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2020 AHS Snow Week...

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Many students took advantage of the opportunity to skate during Friday’s school day at the Amery Ice Arena.

Proudly Serving the Amery Area for Over 45 Years

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Kenny Lepak and Dylan Thomsen were winners of the Royalty competition.

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Students were given the option to join in on a painting session with Paul Oman. Carly Vincent is shown working on a project.

Willow Ridge Healthcare wishes to thank the Amery area for the trust you or your loved one has placed in us. We consider it a privilege and honor to be of service to the Amery area. Willow Ridge offers short transition care with rehab suites, long term care, physical, occupational, speech therapy, IV therapy, wound care and much more. All this is in a comfortable home like setting. Our care is tailored to the individual, respecting all of your choices.

For more Information Contact: Candace Slater, Social Services/Admissions Joseph Gates, Administrator 400 Deronda St., Amery | 715-268-8171

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Students from Ms. Steven’s Warrior Time take a minute to pose with Director of Athletics, Jeff Fern, during a scavenger hunt.

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Friday fun to complete week

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Jasmine Quarberg and Cheyenne Griffith were music to the ears of talent show attendees.

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L-R: Grady Martin, Trent Andren and Caleb Bleskacek work to defend the senior class.

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Jens Bjorge and Laura Kastanek participate in the lip sync competition.

Staff joined in on talent show festivities. L-R: Mike Rose, Jeff Fern and Jesse Rose perform for students.

AND OUTDOORS

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Amery hockey clinches third conference title BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

With a 3-1 victory over defending Middle Border Conference champion Baldwin-Woodville on Jan. 30 in Amery, the Warrior boys hockey team improved to 16-5 and secured the 2019-20 MBC title with three games remaining in the regular season. "We got off to a great start in the first period," said Amery coach Tim Henningsgard. "It was just about a perfect period and then a couple of breakdowns in the last minute made the rest of the game much tougher than it needed to be." Jackson Henningsgard scored two goals in the first 13:21. Then, in the final minute of the opening period, Baldwin-Woodville's Rinalds Ulmanis put the Blackhawks (10-8-3) on the board. At the 12:28 mark of the second period, Jackson Henningsgard assisted Reece Atkins on an insurance goal. "Jackson was outstanding the entire game," Coach Henningsgard said, noting that he and his linemates "really controlled the offensive zone and

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Middle Border Conference Champs. The Amery Warrior hockey team beat Baldwin 3-1 to win the conference. First title for the Warriors since 2012.

had so many chances to score throughout the game." Others earning assists for the Warriors were Fletcher Kjeseth, Pake Brown and

Grady Martin. Neither team scored on the nine total power plays, and Baldwin-Woodville outshot Amery, 29-26. Ethan Mork tallied 28 saves

in the Amery goal. "Baldwin is a very quality team," Coach Henningsgard said. "To clinch the conference, on home ice versus another No.

1 seed hopeful... it was a pretty special night." The conference title is the third in the Amery program's history and its first since 2012.

TAXES DON’T SCARE US.

It’s our job to cut them down to size. TAXES ARE A PART OF LIFE We all know it. And we all beneĮt from it. Taxes pay for and make possible many services we enjoy and value. But why pay more than your share? We want to ensure you receive every tax advantage available to you, this year and every year. Let us do the research and planning. Let us stay on top of tax changes. Let us be the experts so you don’t have to.

301 Keller Ave. S | Amery, WI | 715-268-7999 | www.carlsonsv.com

SPORTS

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SCC Panthers maul Warriors

Clear Lake boys run through Amery BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Lakeland-Central Conference-leading Clear Lake's boys basketball team handed Amery its third consecutive 40-plus point loss on Jan. 27 in Amery, 75-31, to improve to 13-3 on the season. Clear Lake shot 36-for-65 from the field and had three players score in double figures. The visiting Warriors also picked up 23 steals and 18 assists while the home Warriors turned the ball over 34 times. Leading the way for Clear Lake was Riley Peterson with 18 points, five rebounds and a block. Brett Benson contributed 17 points, three steals and two rebounds. Adam Loenser sneaked into double figures with 10 points and two steals. Also scoring for Clear Lake were: Jarrett Marlett (eight points, five steals), Tyson Blanchard (eight points, seven assists, five rebounds), Ethan Kirk (four points, six assists), Will Fitzer (four points, two assists, three steals), Ashtyn O'Bryan (four points, four rebounds) and Brayden O'Bryan (two points). Amery (0-14) was led by Luke Julson with eight points, six rebounds and two steals. Kenny Lepak added seven points and six rebounds. Also scoring for Amery were: Jason Oft (five points, three rebounds), Lane Frederick (four points), Wyatt Luchtenburg (three points, two rebounds, two assists), Jon Golden (two points), and Raymond Sowell (two points, four rebounds). Gavin Melberg grabbed four steals for Amery.

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Amery's boys' basketball team suffered its seventh 40-plus point loss of the season on Jan. 24 when it hosted St. Croix Central. The visiting Panthers (9-4) dominated the Warriors, 75-35, behind a 19-point, 10 rebound effort by Carson Hinzman. Amery (0-13) was led by Wyatt Luchtenburg's, 12 points, three rebounds, two assist and two steals. However, the Warriors turned the ball over 24 times and hit just 2 of 7 free throws as a team. Kenny Lepak scored 10 points to go with his team-high six rebounds and two assists. Also scoring for the Warriors were Lane Frederick (four points, five rebounds), Dayton White (three points), Luke Julson (two points, two steals) and Raymond Sowell (two points, three steals).

Spartans control Warriors, 73-40 BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Amery's 40-73 road loss to Somerset on Jan. 28 marked its 15th consecutive loss this season and 21st straight defeat as a boys basketball program. Somerset (11-4) was guided by a 21-point, five rebound performance by Ty Madden, who led a trio of double digit scorers. Amery (0-15) had a pair of players in double figures as well, with Luke Julson taking the lead with 11 points and three rebounds. Wyatt Luchtenburg posted 10 points and two rebounds. Kenny Lepak paced the Warriors on the boards with eight rebounds to go with his four points and four assists. Also scoring for Amery were: Mikey Kurschinksi (seven points, three rebounds, two assists), Charlie Flanum (four points, two rebounds), Dayton White (two points, two rebounds) and Raymond Sowell (two points, three rebounds, two assists).

KENT HUGHES

Wyatt Luchtenburg (23) is hoping to grab the ball for Amery ahead of Clear Lake’s Riley Peterson (3).

Amery wrestlers top BaldwinWoodville BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER SUBMITTED

Amery’s 126-pounder, JC Wentz, won 4-1 over Jack Voelker in Ellsworth.

No. 5 Ellsworth takes down Amery wrestling BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Division 2's fifth-ranked Ellsworth Panthers were too much for the Amery wrestling team on Jan. 30 as the Panthers defeated the Warriors, 34-15. The match was an unusual one for the Warriors this season, not only because it was its first dual loss, but because none of the matches ended in a pin. Amery entered the match with five individually-ranked wrestlers while Ellsworth had four ranked

wrestlers. Ellsworth won the first four matches by decision and the fifth by a technical fall. The first match paired top-ranked Ellsworth heavyweight Logan Peterson against fifth-ranked Amery 220-pounder Robert Beese in a match at 220-pounds. Peterson defeated Beese by a score of 4-3. Amery 126 pounder Joseph Wentz put the Warriors on the board with a 4-1 decision over Jack Voelker. Third-ranked Jordan Penard followed with a 15-1 major

decision over Bailey Poellinger. Ellsworth grabbed another technical fall at 138 pounds as thirdranked Charlie Stuhl topped 12thranked Mason Tylee, 20-5, and Amery responded with a 5-2 win by fourth-ranked Walker Ingham over Braden Matzek. The Panthers then won the next three matches by decision before Amery's sixth-ranked Kale Hopke finished the evening with a 23-7 technical fall over Ian Matzek.

Amery's wrestling team picked up a 42-32 Middle Border Conference dual victory on Jan. 23 against the Baldwin-Woodville Blackhawks. Both teams are currently receiving honorable mention in the wiwrestlingcom Division 2 state rankings. The Warriors opened with a pin by 160-pounder Grant Cook over Logan Gordan to take the early lead but gave up back-to-back pins at 170 and 182 pounds. Kale Hopke knotted the score at 12-12 with a fall against Mason Baribeau in the 195-pound match, and Robert Beese put Amery back in front by pinning Dylan Hanson at 220 pounds. Chance Schroeder (285 pounds) added an 8-3 decision over Adam Malstrom and Brendan Burke (113 pounds) recorded a fall over Haydon Langer. But B-W managed back-to-back pins again at 120 and 126 pounds to even the team score again at 27-27. Then Jordan Penard began a three-match win streak for the Warriors when he edged Jordan Bonte for a 10-3 decision in the 132-pound match. Mason Tylee followed with a pin over Hunter Gartman at 138 pounds, and 145 pounder Walker Ingham secured the team victory by pinning Wyatt Bennis.

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Warriors fall to No. 10 Prescott BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

ALLEN CARLSON

Brotzel breaks record Morgan Brotzel holds the new AHS record for GBB all time leader in three point baskets. Jan. 28 she scored her 88th three-pointer to surpass the record previously held by Lisa (Kuhl) Danielson. She is shown with her Dad/Coach, Gabe.

Amery's four-game girls basketball winning streak came to a close on Jan. 28 with a 50-67 road loss to WIAA Division 3's 10thranked Prescott. The Warriors (9-5) had three players score in double figures, but even those three combined did not match the 38 points posted by Prescott's Isabella Lenz - who also tallied eight steals. Amery's Julia Engebretson and Ella Schmidt each had 12 points, four rebounds and two assists. Engebretson also added a steal. Drew Granica posted 11 points, five rebounds, two assists and two steals. Also scoring for the Warriors were Morgan Brotzel (nine points, two rebounds, two assists, one steal) and Mariah Waalen (six points, six rebounds, three assists). Lydia Monson contributed six rebounds and three assists.

ALLEN CARLSON

Julia Engebretson (15) and Ella Schmidt (32) look to grab the ball. Each of them scored 12 points against Prescott.

Prescott (11-2) is tied with New Richmond for the Middle Border

Importance of mouthpieces SPECIAL TO THE FREE PRESS

Clear Lake boys upset by Grantsburg BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Clear Lake's boys basketball team suffered just its second loss in the last 10 games on Jan. 25 when it fell 53-62 at home to Grantsburg. Ethan Kirk led the Warriors (11-3) with 16 points, three assists and two rebounds. Riley Peterson added 10 points, five rebounds and three blocked shots. And Tyson Blanchard posted team highs in rebounds (eight) and steals (six) while scoring seven points. Also scoring for the Warriors were: Brett Benson (seven points, three rebounds), Alex St. John (five points, four rebounds, one block), Jarrett Marlett (four points), Brayden O'Bryan (two points), and Will Fitzer (two points). Grantsburg is currently 9-6 overall and in third place in the Lakeland-West Conference.

Clear Lake wins 15th straight BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Clear Lake's girls basketball team picked up its 15th consecutive victory on Jan. 27 when it took down Boyceville, 66-36, in Boyceville. The Warriors (15-0) attacked the Bulldogs (6-10) from every direction with four players reaching double figures. Madison Zimmer posted a team-high 16 points while tallying four assists, three steals and two rebounds. Julianna Rosen racked up 12 points and nine rebounds. Rayne Vangsness added 12 points, five rebounds and four steals. And Maddie Rosen posted 10 points, nine rebounds and a blocked shot. Also scoring for Clear Lake were: Maggie Rosen (nine points, five rebounds, five steals, two blocked shots), Kaylee Madison (three points, two rebounds), Brooke Cress (two points) and Teagen Monson (two points).

Conference lead, with Amery sitting in third place.

AMERY – Whether or not it helps prevent concussions, Mike Kelly still knows the benefits. Kelly – the Amery wrestling coach – speaks from experience regarding the use of mouthpieces in wrestling. Now with the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association (WIAA) examining and implementing rules to address potential concussions during events, some area coaches see the use of mouthpieces becoming mandatory in the future. But, Kelly isn’t waiting for an obligation to promote their use. “I wish I would have worn it sooner when I was wrestling, both in high school and college,” Kelly said. “If (WIAA) could prove there’s a significant benefit to preventing concussions with them, maybe it will become mandatory. But I think mouthpieces are good, personally. “I wish I’d be introduced to them earlier because I had a few chipped teeth and they may not be a big deal at first, but those chips lead to bigger problems.” While the mouthpiece option is up for study and debate, WIAA already implemented rules for the current season in an effort to identify and treat concussions, aiming to at least avoid further ramifications for the competitor. The most significant change was made to the injury timeout for wrestlers sustaining head or neck contact during a match. “Any contestant who exhibits signs, symptoms or behaviors consistent with a concussion – such as loss of consciousness, headache, dizziness, confusion or balance problems – shall immediately (be) removed from the match and shall not return to competition until cleared by an appropriate healthcare professional,” as stated in the Wisconsin Interscholastic Athletic Association’s updated rule. “(These) injury timeouts will

Mike Kelly

be used in all competition regarding injuries to the head and neck, involving (the) cervical column and/or nervous system.” Such instances now allow for five minutes of injury time, rather than the usual 90 seconds, so the wrestler can have such an examination. While coaches like Kelly often see concussion-causing contact occurring in other sports, he is aware of certain situations that wrestlers are more susceptible to sustaining such an injury. “When they’re trying to escape, when their arms are strapped and they get lifted, possibly a hit on the head or on a takedown – you can get hit hard, or hit yourself hard,” he said. “Just from experience, I think (concussions) happen a lot less in wrestling than other sports. “I’ve talked to soccer and basketball coaches to ask why a player is out. I often hear it’s ‘because they butted heads on the field or hit their head on the floor. I’ve heard a lot more of those, than I have in wrestling.” But he does recall a specific practice last year, when a move led to contact that was obviously an instance for the wrestler to seek examination for a concussion.

Since it did not happen during a meet, the five-minute rule wasn’t necessary though the ensuing time away from the mat showed how serious the results can be. “One wrestler shot and hit his head on the other wrestler’s knee,” he said. “That wrestler was out for probably two weeks. “In wrestling, you often can kind of see it before it happens. Someone gets out of position or someone shoots and the other wrestler doesn’t react quickly enough, so there certainly are instances where it could happen and it’s not just during a game or meet.” And when it did happen during an Amery meet this season, Kelly didn’t rely strictly on the five-minute examination. “We had someone hit their head this year and did the concussion protocol,” he said. “We just defaulted the match and it was in a semifinal. He was then taken to the trainer for more testing without being in a rush. “After the test we were good to go and he ended-up third, but at the time it happened we were like ‘why risk it?’ If he has a head injury, it’s not like he’d miraculously come back and win the match at that point.” Kelly is for any additional measures that are proven to be beneficial in deterring such injuries, though he knows some steps can be taken by teams before the meet even starts and that contact sports will never be completely free of injury risk. “I’m a proponent of strengthening the head and neck area because those injuries are less likely to happen if you’re strong in those areas,” he said. “But no matter what, there always will be a risk in contact sports.”

SPORTS

FEBRUARY 4, 2020

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Amery teams dominate FFA Speaking Contests

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Members of the first and second place Junior High Quiz Bowl teams included: Joseph Kelling, Hailey Palerbek, Carter Kurtzhauls, Benjamin Lorsung, Sarah Jensen, Jesse Dooner and Lila Stone.

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L-R: Courtney Glenna placed first in the Discussion Meet, and Lucy Curtic placed second.

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Lucy Curtis from Amery High School FFA is shown with members of the Junior High Quiz Bowl teams.

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In the Employability Skills catagory, L-R: Deidra Meyer placed second and Hailey Clausen placed first.

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Courtney Glenna placed first in Extemporaneous Speaking, Jonathan Lorsung placed second.

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Amery FFA took first place in Parlimentary Procedure. L-R: Megan Osero, Deidra Meyer, Jonathan Lorsung, Hannah Elmer, Katherine Elwood, Lucy Curtic and Juliana Graff.

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L-R: Bridget Madison, Hannah Elmer and Anarene Evenson display their awards for their high achievements.

Stars tie Hayward, 2-2

Squirt A Hockey

tying goal 14:11 into the third period short handed and unassisted. Then Western Wisconsin (6-102) outshot Hayward (9-9-2), 6-1 in overtime to no avail. Overall, the Stars outshot the Hurricanes, 38-20, and scored the game's first goal 9:07 into the first

SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 2

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The Western Wisconsin Stars girls hockey team ended a three-game slide on Jan. 28 with a 2-2 tie against the Hayward Hurricanes. Ellie Brice scored the

period as Mackenzie Mike was assisted by Bailey Williams on a power play. Western Wisconsin led for nearly 13 minutes while Hayward's lead lasted just over two minutes. Caitlyn Erickson saved 18 of 20 shots faced.

Amery 3, Spooner 4 Goals – Jarric Manning, Ella Robertson, Scott Bantz Assists – Leo Jensen, Owen Henningsgard, Gavin Humpal, Jarric Manning Saves – Van Anderson 18

Amery 1, Spooner 4 Goals – Scott Bantz Assists – Owen Henningsgard Saves – Van Anderson 25

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COMMUNITY

FEBRUARY 4, 2020

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AMERY COMMUNITY EDUCATION The NEW Community Ed catalog should have arrived in your mailbox. If not, you can get a copy at the Amery & Deer Park libraries, Amery Schools, other locations around town, or view it online. Check it out! Pre-register and learn more through Amery Community Ed online at www.amerysd.k12.wi.us or by calling 715-268-9771 x220.

Trip to the Minneapolis Home & Garden Show featuring Mike Rowe from Dirty Jobs. Spend the day browsing stunning displays, shopping, and attending special presentations. Get

inspired for your next home project! Saturday, Feb 29. The $49 fee includes show admission, special events including Mike Rowe, motor coach bus, drop-off and pickup at the front doors. Pre-register with Community Ed by February 17. ‘All My Love’ Bouquet – Create a romantic garden arrangement in a terra cotta pot in this fun, hands-on class. It will be perfect to give for Valentine’s Day or to keep for yourself! All materials and tools provided. Feb 10 from 6-7:30 p. Fee $19 to Comm Ed, pre-register. Materials Fee $25 to instructor at class. Piano for Youth and/or Adults offers beginning youth (grades 1+) or adults the opportunity to be introduced to the piano in a one-on-one experience. 5 Tuesdays; Feb 11 -Mar 10. 30-minute time slots available between 4:15 and 6:45 p. Register by calling Community Ed (715-268-9771 x220) to sign up for a specific time slot. Online registration is not available. Youth must be accompanied to class by a parent or guardian. Fee $79.

Handmade Bath & Body Products: Making your own personal care products is simple, inexpensive, rewarding, and good for you! This class offers an overview of several items you can make at home, including soap, deodorant, lotions, herbal sachets, balms, body

powder, insect repellent and more! Learn about choosing healthy ingredients and make & take home some samples and recipes. Feb 11 from 6-9 p. Fee $24, pre-register with Community Ed. Materials fee $8 to the instructor in class

for kids and families to bounce a ball, shoot some hoops, play catch or just run around and be active together. Select Sundays: Feb 2 & 16, Mar 1 from 1:303:30 p in the Intermediate School – enter through the doors facing the NORTH parking lot. No fee – just show up!

Metal Etching and Patina Workshop:

Rumble Jumble Open Gym sponsored by PowerUp for toddlers and preschool-

Necklace or Keychain – Learn the process of etching your own personal design into metal, and how to use a variety of patina options to create your own personalized copper pendant. Feb 13 from 5:30-9 p. Fee $40, pre-register with Community Ed by Feb. 9. Materials Fee $15 to instructor at class. Trips upcoming – Tickets on sale now for the following – join us! • THE MUSIC MAN matinee at the Chanhassen Dinner Theatre on Wednesday, April 1; $95. • COME FROM AWAY matinee at the Orpheum Theatre on Sunday, August 23: $71. • Pre-register for all trips through Community Ed. Trips often fill quickly, so don’t wait!

Basketball Winter Recreation for Youth and Families: For boys and girls grades 4-12. Bring your own ball; enter through North doors. No fee. Sundays through March 15 from 1:30-3:30 p in the Middle School gym

Open Gym for Families sponsored by PowerUp: Open gyms are a chance

ers to run, burn energy, and have fun. Parents/Guardians are expected to stay in the gym. No fee – just show up. Tuesdays through March when school is in session from 11 -11:45 a. Intermediate School. Pickleball – Open Gym: Join us on Wednesday nights to play the fastest growing recreational sport in the nation. Wednesdays through March from 6-8 p in the High School. No fee – just show up.

YOUTH REC FAIR Open House for Families: Learn more about the many opportunities available in the Amery area for our youth - some opportunities are available to children as young as 4 years old! Expect to meet representatives from many of the following: Little League Baseball, Fast Pitch Softball, Youth Spring Volleyball, Youth Golf, Piano Lessons, Martial Arts, Track & Field Club, Youth Football, Youth Boys & Girls Basketball, and potentially more. Feb 11 from 6-7 p at the High School.

Visit us online: ww.theameryfreepress.com LEGAL NOTICE

If you bought butter or cheese directly from a local dairy co-op store between December 6, 2008 and July 31, 2013, you could receive a payment from a class action settlement. What is the lawsuit about? A $220 million settlement has been reached in a class action lawsuit brought against National Milk Producers Federation, Agri-Mark, Inc., Dairy Farmers of America, Inc., and Land O’Lakes, Inc. (collectively “Defendants”). The lawsuit claimed that an effort known as Cooperatives Working Together (CWT) operated a Herd Retirement Program that was a conspiracy to reduce milk output that violated the law. The Defendants deny doing anything wrong. The Court has not decided who is right. Who is included? The Court decided that the Class includes all persons and entities in the United States that purchased butter and/or cheese directly from one or more Members of Defendant, Cooperatives Working Together and/or their subsidiaries, during the period from December 6, 2008 to July 31, 2013 who did not timely opt-out of the Class. Those that are included are called “Class Members.” To be a Class Member who could be eligible for a payment, you must have purchased butter or cheese made by a CWT Member. If you are a consumer, you must have purchased butter or cheese made by a CWT Member at one of the dairy co-op stores. Go to the website for a list of CWT Members along with their store names and locations. What does the settlement provide? The settlement provides that payments to Class Members will be allocated: 37% to the Butter Sub-Class, and 63% to the Cheese Sub-Class. Total payments will be $220 million plus interest, minus: attorneys’ fees and expenses; payments to the Named Plaintiffs; notice and administration costs; and taxes. What are your options? If you are a Class Member who received emailed or mailed Notice, you do not need to do anything at this time to be eligible to receive a payment. Once the Court has approved the Claim Form, a deadline will be set for Class Members to submit claims. If you received a Notice in the mail, you will be mailed a Claim Form automatically. If you did not receive a Notice in the mail, and you think you are a potential Class Member, please identify yourself or your company to the Settlement Administrator as a potential Class Member by letter to the following address: Butter and Cheese Class Action, PO Box 4290, Portland, OR 97208-4290, email to: info@butterandcheeseclassaction.com, or register on the website, so you can obtain a Claim Form, once it is available. As a Class Member, you will be bound by all orders and judgments of the Court. Unless you want to object to the settlement, YOU DO NOT HAVE TO DO ANYTHING NOW. Instructions for objecting can be found at the website or by calling the toll-free number below. You must mail your objection postmarked by March 17, 2020. The Court will hold a Fairness Hearing on April 27, 2020, to decide whether to approve the Settlement and any requests for fees and expenses. If there are objections, the Court will consider them at the hearing. You do not need to attend the hearing. If you wish to appear at the hearing, you must file a “Notice of Intention to Appear” with the Court and you may hire your own attorney to appear in Court for you at your own expense. Detailed information is available at the website and toll-free number listed below.

1-855-804-8574 www.ButterandCheeseClassAction.com

CONTEST Contest winner is Lois Johnson, Clayton

Congratulations! Thank you to everyone who entered the contest!

THE ANSWERS: Alibi Bar: coach Amery Discount Liquor: touchdown Amery Express: defense Amery Free Press: extra point Amery Hospital & Clinic: fieldgoal Berghammer Builders: fans Clayton Amoco: tightend Dick’s Fresh Market: safety Indigo Iris: tackle Slumberland Furniture: receiver Williams & Davis: runningback Wolter’s Shoreview: quarterback

Which team won the opening coin toss? San Francisco Which team made the first touchdown? Kansas City Which team made the most field goals? San Francisco Which team won the game? Kansas City Which player was MVP? Patrick Mahomes Point spread: 11

AMERY

215 S. Keller Ave., Amery, WI 54001 | 715-268-8101 www.theameryfreepress.com

COMMUNITY

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Clear Lake schools 2nd Quarter Honor Roll Grade 12

Grade 9

“A” Honor Roll: Abigail Aune, Kenedi Brenne, Alex Burbach, Rhianna Campion, Nichole Catts, William Fitzer, Samantha Haley, Ryan Hayden, Mason Iverson, Samantha Kelly, Natalie Kreier, Michael Lillie, Peyton Lillie, Kaylee Madison, Cameryn Matson, Kiley Mott, Jesse Rogers, Julianna Rosen, Maggie Rosen, Ivan Ruble, Rayne Vangsness, Jassmyn Warner, Madison Zimmer. “B” Honor Roll: Taylor Atkins, Jalyn Bad Horse, Lilyan Hacker, Westan Iverson, Ethan Kirk, Drew Niles, Dylan Schwerdtfeger, Colton Stahl, Jackson Steinberger. First Semester “Straight A” Students: Nichole Catts, Mason Iverson, Michael Lillie, Kaylee Madison, Jesse Rogers, Julianna Rosen, Maggie Rosen, Jassmyn Warner, Madison Zimmer.

“A” Honor Roll: Bailey Alvermann, Karlee Groat, Karl Kobernick, Abigail Monson, Morgan Monson, Teagan Monson, Kelli Niles, Lukas Paulson, Hunter Pickard, Wyatt Reindahl, Carly Siler, Klaire Steinberger. “B” Honor Roll: Sophie Anderson, Jacob Burbach, William Cain, Brock Hauck, Marissa Hernandez, Delaney Johnson, Derek Kreier, Paige Laursen, Mason Olson, Cj Ritterpusch, Jayden Schnegelberger. First Semester “Straight A” Students: Karlee Groat, Karl Kobernick, Morgan Monson, Lukas Paulson, Hunter Pickard, Wyatt Reindahl.

Grade 11 “A” Honor Roll: Halle Carlson, Blake Espeseth, Jackson Fuller, Abigail Keller, Shane Larson, Adam Loenser, Lydia Mara, Julia Mcintire, Hannah Monson, Ellen Paatalo, John Pearson, Molly Petersen, Kierra Pickard, Alex St. John, Kaylee Sunday, Mackenzie Ward. “B” Honor Roll: Mariah Anderson-Nelson, Edward Monette, Logan Reindahl, Rachel Sanftner, Wyatt Steinberger, Vivian Tulgren. First Semester “Straight A” Students: Halle Carlson, Shane Larson, Julia Mcintire, Ellen Paatalo, John Pearson, Kierra Pickard, Kaylee Sunday.

Grade 10 “A” Honor Roll: Kallie Barthman, Tyson Blanchard, Mariah Dutton, Samantha Hoefferle, Kristyn Katz, Carter Lillie, Josie Peterson, Riley Peterson, Emily Roessler, Elizabeth Rosen, Brooklyn Tolzman, Michael Walker, Madeline Young. “B” Honor Roll: Reece Atkins, Zachary Aune, Lukas Becker, Wyatt Brihn, Brooke Cress, Brooke Hadac, Lillian Johnson, Samantha Kichler, Caleb Logan, Barton Lund, Austin Moll, Gavin Monson, Anthony Quinn, Clara Rasmussen, Madeline Rosen. First Semester “Straight A” Students: Elizabeth Rosen.

Grade 8 “A” Honor Roll: Isabella Anderson, Jed Arduser, Royce Brogan, Ellie Cress, Tristan Erickson, Abby Everts, Kellyn Hayden, Lyla Jarchow, Eddie Johnson, Lance Kolba, Annabelle Lawson, Lucia Meissner, Kylie Monson, Brenna Peterson, Kathryn Rosen, Tena Schoggins, Elizabeth Tronrud, Steven Wood. “B” Honor Roll: James Brinker, Blake Harris, Sean Hoefferle, Tyler Sunday. First Semester “Straight A” Students: Jed Arduser, Royce Brogan, Kellyn Hayden, Lyla Jarchow, Eddie Johnson, Lucia Meissner, Kate Rosen, Tena Schoggins, Elizabeth Tronrud.

Grade 7 “A” Honor Roll: Isaac Anderson, Lily Anderson, Landon Arcand, Brooke Barthman, William Brantner, Seth Brihn, Alexis Buhr, Ada Ernst, Bradyn Keller, Dylan Laberee, Jenna Lundgren, Anneli Monson, Brenden Newville, Avery Rasmussen, Madison Rondeau, Kaitlynn Tellijohn, Ajahnei Twyman, Lillie West, Hailey Zauft. “B” Honor Roll: Jordan Blanchard, Sierra Groat, Josh Kaczmarski, Sara Leintz, Brandee Madison, Cayden Mccann, Nathaniel Newcombe, Brynn Olson, Xander Quinn, Aldo Ramos. First Semester “Straight A” Students: Isaac Anderson, Lily Anderson, Landon Arcand, William Brandtner, Seth Brihn, Ada Ernst, Kaitlynn Tellijohn, Ajahnei Twyman, Hailey Zauft.

ARNELL MEMORIAL HUMANE SOCIETY Holly is a five month old Maremma Sheepdog-German Shepherd mix. She and her brothers, Castiel and Dean, wear cream yellow coats with black masks. They are large puppies and will undoubtedly by very large adult dogs. They are handsome pups, fearful sweet, cautious of new things and people. These beautiful pups were raised in a barn, literally. Their lack of interaction with outside world during the first few months of life, gave shape to their timid natures. Holly, Dean and Castiel have been at the shelter for five weeks. During that time, they have learned to accept human interaction and look forward to walks with those who handle them on a regular basis. They are hesitant to engage with new people and situations, but walk well on leash and eagerly work for treats. They absolutely love to play with other dogs and would greatly benefit from another dog to bolster their confidence. The Maremma Three show the natural sheep guarding talents of their Sheepdog breeding. They would be at home on a sheep farm, working alongside another herd guarding dog or as a country dog with a quiet lifestyle. With extra reassurance and lots of praise, these Shepherd Mix pups will blossom to become loving companions. They are ready to meet potential adopters and find their place in the world. As we see in the behaviors of our Maremma pups, early socialization is so important to a young puppy. During the unique window of the first four months of life, a puppy who has positive experiences with as many new people, animals, and environments as possible has the best chance at growing up to be a happy, confident dog. If you are the owner of a new puppy, your new companion of 12+ years, would greatly benefit from Puppy Kindergarten. Beginning February 25th, Puppy Socialization Kindergarten classes are available at Arnell Humane Society. Puppy Kindergarten introduces your puppy to basic manners and gives him the self-confidence and social skills he needs to last a lifetime. In class, you will

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Holly

begin work on basic behaviors like sit, leave it and come, but also take plenty of play breaks to keep it fun and problem-solve your priority issues: chewing, biting, jumping up and house training. Casey McGee of Upward Hound Dog Training will be offering Puppy Kindergarten at Arnell on Tuesdays at 7 pm. There are 6 – one hour sessions with an optional (but highly encouraged) half-hour off-leash play time immediately before each session. Class fee is $150. Enrolled puppies should be under 18 weeks of age on the first day of class. All sizes, all breeds, all temperaments welcome! Registration is online at: www.upwardhound.com Also offered at the Arnell shelter, are Small Dog Socials with Casey McGee. Bring your under 20 pound small dog, all ages, to let your pint-sized pup express his gregarious side in a safe setting among compatible playmates. It’s a great winter, indoor play date for you and your pup. Registration for this class can also be found at: www. upwardhound.com. February is the quietest month of the year at Arnell Humane Society. Fewer animals are being born or getting lost. We gladly take the time this affords us to concentrate on the animals we do have in our care and undertake a few maintenance projects. Please visit our available animals online at our website: ARNELLHUMANE.ORG There are outstanding pets waiting to meet you; kittens, adult feline lap warmers, one small dog and three medium/large dogs. Arnell Memorial Humane Society.

Amery FFA Chapter and Amery Free Press are cooperating to produce a special supplement for the Tuesday, Feb. 25 edition.

Feb. 22-29, 2020

If you have not been contacted or have a question about the supplement, please contact Pam at 715-268-8101. Deadline is Monday, February 17, 2020. AMERY

215 S. Keller Ave., Amery, WI 54001 • 715-268-8101 Email: phumpal@theameryfreepress.com www.theameryfreepress.com

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FEBRUARY 4, 2020

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COLLEGE HONORS GUSTAVUS ADOLPHUS COLLEGE

IOWA STATE UNIVERSITY

Fall Dean’s List

Fall Dean’s List

Amery, WI Mykaela Otto Lilly Soderberg Osceola, WI Katherine Jennings St. Croix Falls, WI Alyssa Paulson

UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN - LA CROSSE

Fall Dean’s List Amery, WI Alex Becker, Political Science Major Hannah Julson, Communication Studies Major: Organizational and Professional Communication Emphasis Andy Otto, Biology Major: Biomedical Science Concentration Balsam Lake, WI Tevin Anderson, Middle Childhood through Early Adolescence Education Major Clear Lake, WI Brittany Estes, English Major: Literature Emphasis Rachel Ganje, Biology Major: Biomedical Science Concentration Abby Schmidt, Undeclared Major - CSH Cushing, WI Sean Schaber, Archaeological Studies Major Alyssa Swenson, Biology Major Frederic, WI Olivia Schauls, Archaeological Studies Major: Cultural Anthropology Emphasis Luck, WI Madeline Joy, Management Major Emma Pedersen, Therapeutic Recreation Major Osceola, WI Allie Helgeson, Biology Major St. Croix Falls, WI Sophie Klein, School Health Education Major Christina Nygren, Biology Major Madi Stelton, Nuclear Medicine Technology Major Sydney Volgren, Early Childhood through Middle Childhood Education Major

Amery, WI Michaela Ann Erickson, 3, Genetics (AGLS) Dresser, WI Jeremy Jonathan Cermin, 4, Mechanical Engineering Madison Marie Roemhild, 3, Industrial Design Frederic, WI Kinzie Lee Matz, 4, Dietetics (H SCI)

THE COLLEGE OF ST. SCHOLASTICA

Fall Dean’s List

Fall Dean’s List Amery, WI Keeley Brown, Education & Human Sciences Autumn Cernohous, Education & Human Sciences Timothy Fredrick, Arts and Sciences Kayla Olson, Education & Human Sciences Balsam Lake, WI Amie Costello, Education & Human Sciences Danielle Mares, Education & Human Sciences Centuria, WI Zachary Rau, Arts and Sciences Clear Lake, WI Jessica Monsebroten, Nursing and Health Sciences Deer Park, WI Parker Keilen, Education & Human Sciences Dresser, WI Brett Swanson, Business Rachel Swanson, Nursing and Health Sciences Frederic, WI Mark Olson, Business Luck, WI Matthew Lane, Arts and Sciences Morgan Pfaff, Education & Human Sciences Kalvin Watt, Arts and Sciences Milltown, WI Matthew Peterson, Education & Human Sciences Osceola, WI Travis Bentler, Business

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Fall Dean’s List

UW-EAU CLAIRE

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St. Croix Falls, WI Bethany Kalpin, Education & Human Sciences Cassandra Kalpin, Education & Human Sciences Angus Koschmeder, Business Brooke Swenson, Education & Human Sciences Turtle Lake, WI Elizabeth Anderson, Business Cassidy Fredrick, Arts and Sciences Dana West, Education & Human Sciences

Amery, WI Thomas Christenson, Sophomore, BS Computer Science Joshua Geigle, Senior, BS packaging Lance Hiltner, Freshman, undeclared/undecided Daniel Marquand, Freshman, BS Mechanical Engineering Ashley Simonson, Senior, BS early childhood education Centuria, WI Samuel Foight, Senior, BS golf enterprise management Cole Garvey, Senior, BS manufacturing engineering Raelin Sorensen, Junior, BS early childhood education Clayton, WI Matt Gretzlock, Senior, BS information and communication technologies Kimberly Peetz, Senior, BS human development and family studies Clear Lake, WI Allegra Larson, Freshman, BS hotel, restaurant and tourism Cushing, WI Paige Runnels, Sophomore, BS Health Wellness & Fitness Dresser, WI Victoria Anderberg, Senior, BFA entertainment design Joshua Elmer, Sophomore, BS applied mathematics and computer science Cloe Lindh, Junior, BFA industrial design, BFA industrial design Casey Mikl, Junior, BS business administration

Johnathan Petherbridge, Senior, BS packaging Frederic, WI Ciara DeLozier, Sophomore, BS early childhood education Nicole Nelson, Senior, BS Health Wellness & Fitness Kyle Olson, Junior, BS technology education Osceola, WI Danielle Annunziata, Freshman, BFA studio art Luke Lundgren, Sophomore, BS construction Mitchel Meissen, Senior, BS Mechanical Engineering Daniel Murray, Senior, BS information technology management Nick Stroshane, Sophomore, BS plastics engineering Maddy Wilmot, Sophomore, BS marketing and business education St. Croix Falls, WI Joe Gorres, Freshman, Pre Mechanical Engineering Megan Kerkow, Senior, BS Environmental Science Annalise Parks, Sophomore, BS applied science, Pre-Pharmacy/Pre-Prof Hailee Richison, Freshman, BS business administration Brenna Sullivan, Senior, BS Graphic Communications Turtle Lake, WI Joanna Lee, Freshman, BS marketing and business education Wayne Sleeter, Junior, BS early childhood education

Fall Graduates Amery, WI Maggie Christiansen, BFA Graph Des & Interact Media Centuria, WI Samuel Foight, BS Golf Enterprise Management Nicholas Johnson, BS Special Educ (2nd mj) Clayton, WI Kimberly Peetz, BS Human Develpm & Family Std Osceola, WI Daniel Murray, BS Information Technology Mgmt Em Rainer, BS Human Develpm & Family Std Derrick Schmidt, BS Health Wellness & Fitness

EQUAL HOUSING OPPORTUNITY, all real estate advertising in this newspaper is subject to the Fair Housing Act which makes it illegal to advertise “any preference, limitation or discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, handicap, familial status, or national origin, or an intention to make such preference, limitation or discrimination.� Familial status includes children under the age of 18 living with parents or legal custodians; pregnant women and people securing custody of children under 18. This newspaper will not knowingly accept any advertising for real estate which is in violation of the law. Our readers are hereby informed that all dwellings advertised in this newspaper are available on an equal opportunity basis. To complain of discrimination call HUD toll free at 800-6699777. The toll free telephone number for the hearing impaired is 800-927-9275.

RIPON COLLEGE

Fall Dean’s List Clayton, WI Kiana Fall Alison Leslie

HAMLINE UNIVERSITY

Fall Dean’s List Clayton, WI Emma Denotter Clear Lake, WI Parker Reindahl

COASTAL CAROLINA UNIVERSITY

President’s List Deer Park, WI Alyssa Antolak, Marine Science

CARTHAGE COLLEGE

Fall Dean’s List Amery, WI Taylor Mortensen

UW-RIVER FALLS

Fall Graduates Amery, WI Heidi Van Blaricom, Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education Clayton, WI Alec Eckert, Bachelor of Science, Geography Osceola, WI Elizabeth Iafrate, Master of Science - Education, Elementary Education Blayne Peckman, Bachelor of Science, Criminology Calli Peckman, Bachelor of Science, Business Administration St. Croix Falls, WI Noah Hedlund, Bachelor of Science, Accounting Garrett Kerkow, Bachelor of Science, Agricultural Studies Taylor Moen, Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education Bethany Oestreich, Bachelor of Science, Elementary Education Turtle Lake, WI Cassaundra Stanley, Bachelor of Science, Marketing Communications

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LUNCH MENUS AMERY SCHOOL DISTRICT Milk Choices: Low-fat White Milk, Chocolate Skim Milk, Skim White Milk. Daily Breakfast Offerings: Chex, Cinnamon Toast Crunch, Cocoa Puffs, Honey Nut Cheerios, Chocolate Mini Wheats, Trix or Cheerio Bar-MS/HS Only, String Cheese, Hard Boiled Egg or Sunflower Seeds, Fruit Choices, 100% Orange Juice, 100% Grape Juice, 100% Apple Juice.

Wednesday, Feb. 5– Breakfast: Freshly Baked Cinnamon Rolls. Elementary Lunch: Pizza Dippers, PB&J Sandwich, California Blend Veggies, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices, Sidekick Frozen Fruit, Marinara Sauce. Intermediate Lunch: Pizza Dippers, PB&J Sandwich, Chicken Caesar Salad, California Blend Veggies, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices, Sidekick Frozen Fruit, Marinara Sauce. Middle School Lunch: Pizza Dippers, PB&J Sandwich, Meatball Sub, Chicken Caesar Salad, California Blend Veggies, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices, Sidekick Frozen Fruit, Marinara Sauce. High School Lunch: Pizza Dippers, PB&J Sandwich, Yogurt Lunch, Chicken Caesar Salad, Personal Pan Cheese Pizza, Klements Bratwurst, California Blend Veggies, Garden Bar, Sidekick Frozen Fruit, Fruit Choices, Marinara Sauce.

Thursday, Feb. 6– Breakfast: French Toast Sticks, Sausage Stick. Elementary Lunch: Chicken Nuggets, Yogurt Combo Lunch, Roasted Brussels Sprout, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices, Brown Rice, Ketchup. Intermediate Lunch: Cheezy Chicken Nachos, Yogurt Combo Lunch, Black Bean Salad, Chicken Caesar Salad, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices. Middle School Lunch: Cheezy Chicken Nachos, Homemade Bean & Cheese Q’dilla, Yogurt Combo Lunch, Chicken Caesar Salad, Black Bean Salad, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices.

High School Lunch: Build Your Own Nachos, PB&J Sandwich, Yogurt Lunch, Black Bean Salad, Chicken Caesar Salad, Garlic Cheese Flatbread, Spicy Chicken Patty on a Bun, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices.

Friday, Feb. 7– Breakfast: Cheese Egg Bake with Cinnamon Crisps. Elementary Lunch: Warrior Burger, PB&J Sandwich, Tator Tots, Cooked Carrot Coins, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices, Sliced Pickles. Intermediate Lunch: Warrior Burger, PB&J Sandwich, Chicken Caesar Salad, Tator Tots, Cooked Carrot Coins, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices, Sliced Pickles. Middle School Lunch: Warrior Burger, Mini Corn Dogs, PB&J Sandwich, Chicken Caesar Salad, Tator Tots, Cooked Carrot Coins, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices. High School Lunch: Warrior Burger, PB&J Sandwich, Yogurt Lunch, Chicken Caesar Salad, Chicken Nuggets, Fish Fillet Sandwich, Tator Tots, Cooked Carrot Coins, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices.

Monday, Feb. 10– Breakfast: Early Riser, Cinnamon Crisps. Elementary Lunch: Chicken Teriyaki, Bologna, California Blend Veggies, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices, Brown Rice, Chocolate Pudding. Intermediate Lunch: Chicken Teriyaki, LoMein Noodles, Tuna Sandwich, Taco Salad, Roasted Edamame, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices, Mini Ice Cream Sandwich. Middle School Lunch: General Tso Chicken, LoMein Noodles, Grilled Cheese, Tuna Sandwich, Taco Salad, Roasted Edamame, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices. High School Lunch: Chicken Teriyaki, LoMein Noodles, PB&J Sandwich, Yogurt Lunch, Taco Salad, Chicken Nuggets, Personal Pan Pepperoni Pizza, Roasted Edamame, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices, Mini Ice Cream Sandwich.

Tuesday, Feb. 11– Breakfast: Breakfast Egg Wrap, Salsa.

Elementary Lunch: Pizza Yogurt Combo Lunch, Green Beans, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices. Intermediate Lunch: Pizza, Yogurt Combo Lunch, Taco Salad, Green Beans, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices. Middle School Lunch: Cheese Pizza, Pepperoni Pizza, Yogurt Combo Lunch, Taco Salad, Green Beans, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices. High School Lunch: Pepperoni Pizza, Cheese Pizza, PB&J Sandwich, Yogurt Lunch, Taco Salad, Chicken Tender Strips, Pizza Calzone, Green Beans, Garden Bar, Fruit Choices.

CLEAR LAKE SCHOOL DISTRICT

a Bun or Pulled Pork Sandwich, Green Beans, Coleslaw, Ranch Sweet Potato Fries or Tator Tots, Juice, Mandarin Oranges, Milk.

Friday, Feb. 7– Elementary Breakfast: Breakfast Cereal or French Toast Sticks, Cheese Omelet, Fruit Juice, Fruit, Milk Choice. Elementary Lunch: Stromboli or Calzone or Goldfish Bowl, Spaghetti Sauce, Vegetables with Dip, Grapes, Sliced Apples, Pudding Cup, Milk. High School Breakfast: Cereal, Yogurt, Gripz Graham Crackers, Donut Holes, Cereal Bar, Sausage Links. High School Lunch: Stromboli or Calzone or Bosco Sticks, Caesar Salad, Sliced Peaches, Apples, Pudding Cup, Milk Choice.

Wednesday, Feb. 5–

Monday, Feb. 10–

Elementary Breakfast: Breakfast Cereal & Nutri Grain Bar or Ham & Cheese Bagel, Fruit, Fruit Juice, Milk Choice. Elementary Lunch: Chicken Fajita Wrap or Yogurt, Cheese Stick & Muffin, Carrots with Dip, Black Beans, Rice, Pineapple, Strawberries, Milk Choice. High School Breakfast: Cereal, Cheese Stick, Pop Tart, Cereal Bar, Muffin, Ham & Cheese Sandwich*, Lemon Bread. High School Lunch: Chicken Fajita, Chicken Strips, Chicken Caesar Salad or PB&J Uncrustable, Vegetables with Dip, Rice, Black Beans, Milk, Strawberries, Pineapple.

Elementary Breakfast: Breakfast Cereal or Donut Holes, Sausage Links, Fruit Juice, Fruit, Milk Choice. Elementary Lunch: Taco in a Bag or Soft Shell Taco, Fixings, Refried Beans, Mandarin Oranges, Jonny Pop Fruit Bar, Milk Choice. High School Breakfast: Cereal, Oatmeal Bar, Sausage Links, Nutri Grain Bar, Chocolate Chip UBR, Cereal Bar, Cheese Stick. High School Lunch: Tacos or Ham & Cheese Sandwich, Fixings, Refried Beans, Pineapple Tidbits, Grapes, Sherbet, Milk Choice.

Thursday, Feb. 6– Elementary Breakfast: Breakfast Cereal or Little John Donut, Yogurt or Yogurt Parfait, Fruit Juice, Fruit, Milk Choice. Elementary Lunch: Breaded Chicken Patty or Pulled Pork Sandwich, Sidewinders, Green Beans, Fruit Juice, Pears, Milk Choice. High School Breakfast: Cereal, Cheese Omelet, Muffin, French Toast Sticks, Oatmeal Bar, Nutri Grain Bar, Lemon Bread. High School Lunch: Chicken Patty on

Tuesday, Feb. 11– Elementary Breakfast: Breakfast Cereal & Graham Crackers or Pancake Sausage Stick with Syrup, Fruit Juice, Fruit, Milk Choice. Elementary Lunch: Hot Dog on a Bun or Meatball Sandwich, Tator Tots, Baked Beans, Dried Cranberries, Oranges Smiles, Milk Choice. High School Breakfast: Cereal, Yogurt, Muffin, Lemon Bread, Cereal Bar, French Toast Sticks, Sausage Links. High School Lunch: Hot Dog or Meatballs on a Bun, Tator Tots, Baked Beans, Applesauce, Celery Sticks, Blueberries, Fruit Salad, Milk Choice.

Queen attends St. Paul Winter Carnival What an amazing experience it was to have attended the “The COOLEST Celebration on Earth,” the St. Paul Winter Carnival! Having the opportunity to go out and serve as an ambassador for the beautiful City of Amery was beyond words. This year, we celebrated the one hundred and thirty fourth annual tradition of King Boreas and the Queen of the Snows battling the Vulcans for eternal winter. It was unlike anything I’d ever seen! Once we settled in with our roommates at the hotel, one of mine being Miss Clear Lake, we took the “Royal Coach Buses” to Rice Park where the opening ceremonies would be held. We met the outgoing Royal Family as well as many other visiting ambassadors that traveled from as far as Florida. We then had a pizza party and a huge meet and greet to end the night. Bright and early Friday morning, we got to paint. We had a giant painting class where we all learned how to paint a snowman inside of a snow globe. As we wrapped up with our canvases, we bundled up to hit the city. We traveled to the history museum where we learned about Minnesota traditions. We saw the Prince Exhibit, experienced the Minnesota weather with a tornado simulation, and so much more. This wonderful day continued with lunch at the “Royal House of Golden Coral,” and then the finale: The Grand Coronation. As we put on our gowns, crowns, and sashes, my roommates and I were shaking with excitement. This was such a big event for the City of St. Paul. As we entered the Grand Ballroom, I felt nothing but pride and joy walking on that stage in front of a sea of people, and telling them that I represented Amery, Wisconsin, the City of Lakes. It was beyond words. We then found our tables with other visiting ambassadors and ate some very fancy food. When the lights went dark, we knew it

SUBMITTED

Ally de la Cruz, 2019-2020 Miss Amery.

was time! The coronation was almost like being in the middle of a huge show. There were acrobats swinging from the rafters and dancers floating through the air on curtains! We watched the 2019 Royal Family say fair well, and we witnessed the crowning of the new family. It was truly a magical night. On Saturday morning, still in shock by Friday night’s events, we bundled up once again to head to CHS Field where the Royal Guards would go head-

to-head with the Vulcans in a game of Hockey. I’m not going to lie, it was quite hilarious to watch them battle it out. Next up, snow sculptures! We took the Royal Coaches over to the State Fair Grounds to watch dozens of artists build their beautiful creations. Sadly, the ice slides were a bit too slippery this year, so we were not able to slide them. But either way, we sure had a good time. After stopping by the “Royal House of McDonalds” for some lunch, we headed to the Grand Parade. We marched through the streets of downtown St. Paul where we were greeted by so many amazing people. I was also lucky enough to run into my amazing crown momma, Hailey Clausen and 2nd Princess Claire Flanum! The excitement and energy at this breathtaking event was absolutely thrilling. After completing the parade, we went back to the hotel where we met the newly crowned royal family. Pictures were taken, hugs were exchanged, and there were lots of smiles. They all had so many things to share with us and spoke such words of wisdom. To end this beautiful day, we had dinner and exchanged buttons. I’ve got to say, it’s crazy how many people had no idea where Amery was! Well, at least now they know. The St. Paul Winter Carnival was more magical and delightful than I could ever dream of. The bonds that were created with the other ambassadors and the memories shared with them are something I will never forget. I am so honored to have had this experience. Thank you so much to the Fall Festival Committee and the Amery Community Club for allowing this all to happen. I am beyond grateful, and I cannot wait to make so many more memories this year! Wishing you warmth and happiness, Ally de la Cruz 2019-2020 Miss Amery

28 AMERY FREE PRESS

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Fire destroys Clear Lake home According to Clear Lake Fire Chief T.J. Buhr, a structure fire was reported at 593 25th St, Clear Lake Township at 7:31 a.m. Friday, Jan. 31. The home is owned by Jeffrey and Amber Gust. Upon arrival, flames were through the roof of the home. Assistance of

water supply and manpower were requested from Clayton and Amery Fire Departments. The property was a total loss. There were no injuries but a family pet was lost in the fire. All units were clear of the scene at approximately 2 p.m.

Amery High School Freshman registration night All current 8th graders and their parents are invited to: AMERY HIGH SCHOOL FRESHMAN REGISTRATION NIGHT Monday, February 10th at 6:00 pm in the High School Auditorium Welcome Amery High School class of 2024! Freshman Registration Night will provide you with important information regarding high school curriculum, graduation requirements and information to assist in selecting

elective classes. Students will receive their registration materials at this meeting. This evening is not an open house format, please plan to arrive by 6:00 pm, the evening will be finished by approximately 7:45 pm. If you have any questions, please contact the Amery High School Guidance Office (715) 268-9771 ext. 253.

Amery Middle School Quarter 2 Honor Roll Grade 8

Valentine’s Day is Friday, Feb. 14

Surprise your Valentine with a message in the Amery Free Press on Tuesday, Feb. 11! Bee Mine

Happy Valentine’s Day to our Grandkids... Connor and Amy Love Grandpa & Grandma

1 col. x 4”

Place a Valentine message with or without a picture for just $20 (boxed ad 1 col. x 4” or 2 col. x 2”)

Deadline is noon on Monday, Feb. 10, 2020.

SAMPLE

HAPPY VALENTINE’S DAY 2 col. x 2” SAMPLE

To My Awesome Grandsons! < Graeme & Finn Bentley & Gavin > Love, Grandma

AMERY

215 S. Keller Ave., Amery 715-268-8101

A Honor Roll: Jorja Ajer, Addison Allee, Isabella Becker, Nataleigh Black, Emily Braaten, Kylie Burch, Summer Carlson, Aylen Castorena Gonsalez, Philip Eaton, Nora Eggert, Sarek Eklund, Shannen Fredrickson, Jadyn Gouker, Wyatt Graff, Vincent Greene, Zachary Hahn, Shawn Hatella, McKenna Heinn, Koy Hopke, Sarah Jensen, William Jensen, Lexi Konecny, Carter Kurtzhals, Ben Lorsung, Damien Lyon, Noah Martinson, Aaron Mork, Kailey Nelson, Cassie Nicholas, Greyson Plaski, Henry Plummer, Liberty Posey, Haley Pulkrabek, Hannah Rust, Joshua Stauner, Shyan Taylor, Delaney Vold, Kaylee Waalen, Seth Waalen, Lily Weisenbeck, Jadyn Werle, Kruse Yuhas, Nevaeha Zacharias, Grace Ziegler. B Honor Roll: Kimetka Adiloska, Jacob Anderson, Russell Bagley, Ava Belvedere, Taylor Bush, Quinn Carlson, Adam Casarez, Aleiya Christensen, Kaden Clark, Austin Cloutier, Conner Cody, Alyssa Collignon, Jesse Dooner, Julie Gehl, Tyler Golden, Sierra Gomoll, Grace Grahovac, Claire Harlander, Stuart Hellie, Fredrik Henningsgard, Trevor Hinz, Wyatt Ingham, Lilly Jacobsen, Kasidi Jenderny, Damion Johnson, Alexander Kegley, Joseph Kelling, Mallory Kjeseth, Leon Klein, Bailee Knapp, Gavin Koch, Kylie Lindahl, Tianna Lochner, Davis Madsen, Sarah Meck, Cayden Meyer, Ethan Miller, Elizabeth Milliman, Abigayle Mork, Dorian Nelson, Tara Olson, Ethan Owen, Loah Pierce, Sarah Poppe, Ava Pruitt, Donaven Rowley, Luca Salzman, Charlee Schroeder, Nicholas Silvis, Meaddy Smestad, Joel Springett, Veronica Stewart, Anthony Stoner, Owen Szobody, Addison Thayer, LilyMae Thompson, Mason Viebrock, Scarlett Viebrock, Lewis Whitley, Jasmyn Wills.

Grade 7 A Honor Roll: Luciana Aizpurua, Adeline Amans, Lane Andersen, Garrett Beauvais, Charli Benware, Marcus Bosley, Olivia Chaves, Caleb Danielson, Alexandra Edwards, Marissa Fisk, Anna Gould, Alessandra Hayes, Alise Hoffmann, Selene Ideker, Hadassah Ingham, Lily Kasper, Paige Komanec, Alex Lester, Katie Lester, Sawyer Luedtke, Peter Markee, Ryan Moskal, Taylor Moulton, Kristy Nelson, Zachary Osero, Madera Peterson, Rylie Pollitt, Elise Powell, Lyla Stone, Natasha Tiry, Dale Tritt, Cora Waterman, Ben Widiker, Grace Williamson, Carter

Wollan, Siri Yuhas. B Honor Roll: Gabrielle Albee, Braxton Allee, Zariah Anderson, Claire Ash, Mason Brown, Kaleb Cook, Marley Cran, Tyler Ellefson, Sean Evenson, Kelly Fern, Sean Graf, Katelin Graski, Tierin Greenebaum, Nathan Gullickson, Jason Hanson, Peyton Hanson, Jenna Hardina, Brock Hosking, Izabella Iwaszko, Jordan Johnson, Matthew Johnson, Gracie Johnston, Michael Kelly, Alexis Lyon, Hayden Madison, Hailey Marciniak, Rocco Meyers, Alexis Miner, Isabella Moody, Sophie Morales, Julia Mortensen, Alexander Nicholas, Quinnleigh Page, Bradyn Penard, Allyson Peterson, Tavis Phillips, Rachael Poppe, Jaden Presley, Alexis Repka, Elliott Roberts, Hannah Rosenberg, Samantha Sigsworth, Joseph Thorsheim, Anna Wagner, Annabelle Walker, Jason Walter, Nelson Wilcox, Taylor Will, David Williamson, Dustin Wishard, Haylee Witt.

Grade 6 A Honor Roll: Rawquelle Albee, Kallie Andersen, Andrew Benner, Evelyn Braaten, Zephaniah Carlson, Ella Chute, Samantha Fulton, Elliot Greene, Maxx Harris, Lincoln Heinn, Brooke Jansen, Chloe Jicinsky, Ethan Koch, Morgan Leonard, Kylie Meyer, Sierra Morales, Isabella Rablin, Tiffanni Schlussler, Norman Springett, Samuel Streich, Sydnee Sweeney, David Swenson, Darby Trent, Jenna VanSomeren, Anna Williamson. B Honor Roll: Vante Allen, Gavin Anderson, Valdin Anderson, Zarina Anderson, Libirty Andrews, Zoey Bly-Larson, Zakk Bonfiglio, McKenzie Braatz, Zoey Carlson, Ruby Christian, William Clark, Trinity De Leon, Jacob DeRosier, Cole Dooner, Dale Drinkwine, Aubrey Dugas, Dalton Flug, Benjamin Frank, Layne Fredericks, Suki Gatica, Lyv Geving, Ayla Hose, Carson Hubred, Aurora Hughes, Madison Kaphing, Savannah Kurtz, Violet Larson, Joseph LeTourneau, Braydin Lindner, Kynnedi Lynk, Cashton Madison, Jacob Maxon, Carter Meyer, Ayden Montpetit, Edward Nihiser, Kennon O’Brien, Breauna Pitchford, Nour Saleh, Carter Sorensen, Antonio Sowell, Mason Steiner, Charlotte Stewart, Connor Stoeklen, Julia Taylor, Levi Thayer, Reagan Thompson, Lilly Thorsheim, Ethan Tyman, Travis Vierkandt, Christopher Wiese, McKinzie Wiesender, Kurtis Yzermans, Marcus Zacharias.

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AUTO THEFT: Search warrant locates drugs CONTINUED FROM PAGE 6

been found. Carpentier and Rogalla were located. In an initial interview, Carpentier allegedly admitted going to the residence where the vehicle had been stolen earlier, but denied any knowledge of vehicle theft. Rogalla also denied being involved. Eventually Carpentier admitted Rogalla took the vehicle and her followed her to a residence in Minnesota and picked her up after she parked the vehicle. He said he did not know why Rogalla took the car, but said the victim owed Rogalla money. A search warrant served on Carpentier’s vehicle allowed law enforcement to locate numerous items in his trunk with the victim’s initials on them. These items included a laptop computer, and a bag containing personal identification paperwork bearing the victim’s name, including her driver’s license. Carpentier and Rogalla were arrested. That same day, a search warrant executed on Carpentier’s residence for the possession and distribution of Meth allowed law enforcement to locate two plastic baggies containing a small amount of white crystalline substance that tested positive for meth. A glass bong was also recovered, which tested positive for meth. Glass bubble pipes found in the residence also tested positive for meth. Carpentier has been charged with drive vehicle w/o consent as a party to a crime, burglary as party to a crime, theft as party to a crime, receiving stolen property as party to a crime, possession of meth, and possession of drug paraphernalia. If found guilty on all charges, he faces 20 years imprisonment and $45,000 in fines. Rogalla has been charged with repeat offenses of drive w/o consent, burglary, theft of movable property and concealing stolen property. If convicted on all charges, she is facing $35,000 in fines and 16 years in prison.

POLK COUNTY PLATBOOKS $42.00 each

at the Amery Free Press

Early Spring…WooHoo! February…how can that be? I am still training my brain that it is 2020, and now we’ve jumped into a new month already. And the groundhog did not see his shadow so they say that means an early Spring…WooHoo! Let’s hope that Mother Nature has been in contact with the groundhog. Did the team you were cheering for in the Super Bowl Sunday come out on top? Or were you more interested in your numbers, the Pounding halftime show and the commercials? the Whatever the Pavement reason you watched the game Pam Humpal for, I hope you enjoyed it. It’s always fun to get together with family and friends. It was a good football game with 2 good teams, but I was more concerned on rating the commercials. The amount of money spent on those advertising spots just amaze me! So what was your favorite commercial this year? I’ve heard a lot of votes for the Jeep-Groundhog Day, and the Ellen-Alexa one. Some other good ones were Cheetos-Can’t Touch This, Bud Light Seltzer, Proctor & Gamble, Reeses Take 5, and

the Hyundi-Smart Park. I was disappointed in not seeing the beautiful Budweiser Clydesdales… hopefully next year. Congratulations to the winner of the AFP Super Showdown Contest…Lois Johnson, Clayton, had all the predictions/ unscrambled words correct. (There were other all correct entries so we had a drawing for the winner.) Thank you to everyone that joined the fun with our Super Showdown Contest. Just a reminder, Valentine’s Day is coming up on Friday, February 14. Show that someone special just how much you care. Valentine gift ideas can be found in this issue. National FFA Week is February 23-29. The Amery Free Press and the Amery FFA Chapter is working together to publish a special section in the paper on Tuesday, February 25. The section will feature the

‘Have a great week… give your loved ones an extra hug!’ young men and women, should please give me a call at 715-268-8101. Watching and supporting high school sports is a great pastime. Congratulations to… • the Amery Hockey team for winning the Conference title • Morgan Brotzel for breaking the 3-point basketball record, which I understand was still held by my niece, Lisa, until last week Good Luck to all the athletes as tournament play begins. Happy Birthday to my niece, Lisa, on February 10. Enjoy your special day! Full Moon is coming up on Sunday, February 9…I love the brightness of the countryside! Here are a couple of fun facts from my “Totally Awesome Book of Useless Information”… • A baby panda is smaller than a mouse when it is born • Your thumb is the same length as your nose • It is impossible to sneeze with your eyes open Have a great week…give your loved ones an extra hug!

‘Watching and supporting high school sports is a great pastime.’ Amery FFA members with their accomplishments and projects over the past year. Area businesses wishing to be a part of the FFA Section, and Congratulate these

Wienermobile pulled over in Wisconsin for traffic infraction WAUKESHA, Wis. (AP) — Oscar Mayer’s iconic Wienermobile got a grilling from a Wisconsin sheriff’s deputy because the driver of the giant hot dog failed to give enough room to another car on the road with emergency lights. The deputy pulled over the Wienermobile and gave the driver a verbal warning for not following the law, the Waukesha Sheriff’s Office said in a tweet posted Monday. It showed a picture of the sheriff’s deputy’s

SUV parked behind the Wienermobile with the hashtags, #MoveOver #SlowDown #Wienermobile. Traffic laws require vehicles to move out of the lane closest to another car that is on the side of the road with emergency lights flashing. The first Weinermobile was created in 1936 and it has gone through several iterations since then.

Get your local news in the Amery Free Press NEWSPAPER FUN ANSWERS (Puzzles on page 13)

Whew! Finished deliveries!

Please join us for our

150th Anniversary Celebration “Celebrating the Past, Looking Forward to Our Future” Sunday, February 16, 2020 10:30 am Worship Service East Immanuel Lutheran Church 207 120th Street • Amery Featuring “Drawn to the Word” worship and artistic experience with Artist and Pastor Paul Oman as he paints a larger-than-life sized mural before our eyes. Refreshments served following the service. ALL ARE WELCOME!

Happy Valentine’s Day! Good Fun and Good Business too! o dt nte d. a n w _” frie iv_e_ your _ H _ “_ be

Hearty Sayings! 1. change of heart 2. cross my heart 3. eat your heart out 4. half-hearted 5. heart of gold 6. heart of stone 7. to have your heart set on something 8. having a heart-to-heart 9. taking something to heart 10. to your heart’s content 11. his/her heart is in the right place 12. heart skips a beat

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AREA BOWLING SCORES

Club 53, Amery MONDAY NIGHT MEN Week 21 of 32 Division 1 Shoreview ............................................ 65 Tac Two ................................................. 54 Division 2 Garyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Electric......................................50 Dickâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Fresh Market ............................24 High Games: Jim Swanson 201-215, Billy Vierkandt 211, Bob Albee 203-222. High Series: Jim Swanson 569, Bob Albee 598. TUESDAY NIGHT MEN Week 20 of 32 Club 53 ................................................38.5 Garibaldiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s..............................................37 Chet Johnson Drug ..............................41 Noah Insurance.................................18.5 High Games: Tryst Dodge 217, Will Schaffer 244-202, Chuck Williamson 209-235. High Series: Will Schaffer 640, Chuck Williamson 628. WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEN Week 20 of 32 Division 1 Alibi..................................................... 60.5 Preferred Lawn....................................37 Division 2 Club 53 ................................................33.5 Amery Fire Department .................. 29 High Games: Jerod Wollan 223, Denis Carteron 225, Lee Jones 255, Dan Boe 224-212, Steve Wold 203, Beau Gorres 205-233, Chris Sobottka 223, Jim Swanson 224, Billy Vierkandt 234-236. High Series: Jerod Wollan 614, Denis Carteron 597, Lee Jones 588, Dan Boe 585, Steve Wold 554, Beau Gorres 622, Jim Swanson 603, Billy ierkandt 634. THURS-FRI NIGHT LADIES Division 1 Northwest Communications ..........55 Chet Johnson Drug ..............................51 Amery Fire Department ..................40 Division 2 Club 53 .................................................... 61 Better Self Wellness ..........................53 Carlson SV ............................................40 High Games: Gwen Wold 192, Lori Smith 185-157, Becky Ausen 179, Stacey Hanson 176-159-157, Pam Humpal 172, Cindy Hardina 166-153, Bev Gorres 163, Janet Martinson 157, Jess Sine 156-151, Katie Lauterbach 156, Marcia Clark 156. High Series: Stacey Hanson 492, Lori Smith 472, Becky Ausen 447, Janet Martinson 445, Bev Gorres 435, April Boe 427.

Spare Time Bowling Turtle Lake MONDAY NIGHT LADIES Week 21 of 29 Clear Lake Auto .................................. 36 Bowlin Buddies....................................32

February Sale Clear Lake Community Center Thrift Store February 6 & 7 â&#x20AC;¢ 9-4 February 8 â&#x20AC;¢ 9-Noon 50% off Kids 0-5T Check out clearance itemsâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; pillows, baskets & bedding

560 5th St. â&#x20AC;¢ Clear Lake Save Dates 1st & 3rd Thurs-Fri-Sat of every month

LakePlace.com ................................... 30 Beckerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trucking ............................... 28 Austadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Super Valu...........................27 Spare Time............................................25 Little Debbies .......................................22 Countyline Dairy.................................. 16 High Games: Debbie Anderson 202, Renee Glowe 195, Judy Ullom 194, Debbie Thill 189, Michelle Hollister 187, Shannon Bents 185, Geri Christensen 183, Mitzi Hawkins 182, Patty Talbot 180, Jen Huebner 177. High Series: Judy Ullom 541, Mitzi Hawkins 509, Renee Glowe 508, Michelle Hollister 499, Debbie Anderson 498. TUESDAY NIGHT WOMEN Week 19 of 29 The Dead Endâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ................................... 30 Sexy Mamaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ....................................... 28 Spare Time........................................... 26 Charlieâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Place ......................................24 Citizen State Bank .............................. 18 Red Cedar Accounting ....................... 16 True Value.............................................. 16 Range Fire Department ......................2 High Games: Sherri Munkelwitz 180, Cheryl Harshman 179, Deb Anderson 176, Renee Glowe 169, Sandra Heppner 169, Sylvia Stetler 168, Shannon Bents 163, Sam Larson 159.

High Series: Sherri Munkelwitz 499, Renee Glowe 480, Cheryl Harshman 466, Sylvia Stetler 456, Duffy Prusak 436, Shannon Bents 433, Deb Anderson 429, Sandra Heppner 427. WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEN Week 20 of 30 Division 1 Dancaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kar Korral ............................. 112 Hoffâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Construction ...........................98 Austadâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Super Valu.......................82.5 Hotel Bar & Grill ..................................80 Division 2 Cumberland Tire ...............................107 Leftyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Hookers....................................87 Perfect Image ..................................83.5 Clear Lake True Value ....................... 83 Division 3 Beckerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trucking ............................ 87.5 Spare Time...........................................86 Scheps Dairy ........................................84 7 Brothers ..........................................69.5 Division 4 Anderson Storage ............................103 Sanmina ............................................... 83 Eagles Lounge.....................................80 Busy Bâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ..................................................74 High Games: Brandon Kahl 269, Rob Erickson 266, Mark Ullom 247. High Series: Rob Erickson 771, Scott Danca 703, Mark Ullom 689.

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Polk County Sportsmen Club invites you to our

Community Appreciation Dinner

Sunday, February 9, 2020 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 pm

American Legion Post #278 Balsam Lake, WI !#% # $ % # !# % #%$ # $ %$

0 (. ( &+ !(* , % ',#' 2+ /1 '!# % !' "! $ # ( #$ ! % !#% # $ % # & # % % $" $! ! ,-* / *- */ ) & " (*," *' $ + ', * !(* ," *,+ %& , & */ #+ ('+#' $$ ! & %$ #

Amery VFW 730 N. Wisconsin Ave., Amery

BINGO

Every Thursday Progressive Jackpot 6:30 p.m. Your share is over $3,608

Bar Open 4 p.m.-? Thursdays & Fridays HAPPY HOUR 4-6 p.m. Only $1.50 beer during Happy Hour (Reg. $2.25)

FEBRUARY 4, 2020

FEBRUARY 4, 2020

www.theameryfreepress.com

AMERY “SPECIAL” CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS January 21, 2020

The Amery City Council met on January 21, 2020 at City Hall – Council Chambers. Council President, Tim Strohbusch called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m. Roll Call: Interim City Administrator/Clerk-Treasurer, Patty Bjorklund conducted Roll Call. Present: Council President, Tim Strohbusch. Alderpersons, Julie Riemenschneider, Rick Van Blaricom, Kris Vicker, Sarah Flanum and Chad Leonard. Absent: Mayor, Paul Isakson. Staff Present: Interim City Administrator/City Clerk-Treasurer, Patty Bjorklund. Staff Absent: Management Analyst, Ben Jansen. Others present: Members of the Public and Guests. Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag: Council President, Tim Strohbusch led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance to the American Flag. New Business: 1. Discussion/Action – MSA Professional Services Agreement (Right-of-way mapping and Conveyance Document Preparation). Erik Evenson of MSA presented the Professional Services Agreement with MSA for Right-of-way mapping and Conveyance Document preparation for: Keller Avenue, City Street Reconstruction Broadway St. to Burman St. Cost for the agreement is $25,500. He noted that the project will take approximately 5 months. He noted that there are 37 parcels involved in the conveyance. Motion by Alderperson Van Blaricom; seconded by Alderperson, Flanum to approve the MSA Professional Services Agreement for Right-ofway mapping and Conveyance Document preparation for Keller Avenue, City Street Reconstruction Broadway St. to Burman St. Cost for the agreement is $25,500. Ayes – Nays – None Motion Carried. 2. Discussion/Action – MSA Professional Services Agreement (Right-of-way Acquisition). Erik Evenson of MSA presented the Professional Services Agreement with MSA for Right-of-way Acquisition for: Keller Avenue, City Street Reconstruction Broadway St. to Burman St. Cost for the agreement is $56,200. He noted that there will be 3 parcels located at the intersections of Keller Avenue/Broadway Street and Memorial Drive. There will be 34 parcels located along Keller Avenue between Center Street and Maple Street. He noted that the rightof-way will be approximately 1 feet from all buildings on the main downtown blocks of Main Street. The city owns sidewalks, and maintenance is still the responsibility of the property owners. Motion by Alderperson, Flanum; seconded by Alderperson, Vicker to approve the MSA Professional Services Agreement for Right-of-Way Acquisition for: Keller Avenue, City Street Reconstruction Broadway St. to Burman St. Cost for the Agreement is $56,200. Ayes – 6 Nays – None Motion Carried. Closed Session: Motion by Alderperson, Flanum; seconded by Riemenschneider to go into closed session proceedings at 5:20 p.m. under WI §19.85 (1) (e) & WI § 19.85 (1) (g). Roll Call Vote was conducted by Interim City Administrator/City Clerk-Treasurer, Bjorklund as follows: Ayes: Strohbusch, Riemenschneider, Van Blaricom, Vicker, Flanum, and Leonard. Nays: None Motion Carried. Motion by Alderperson, Van Blaricom; seconded by Alderperson, Strohbusch to reconvene into open session proceedings at 6:00 p.m. Ayes – 6 Nays – 0 Motion carried. Roll Call Vote was conducted by Interim City Administrator/City Clerk-Treasurer, Bjorklund as follows: Ayes: Strohbusch, Riemenschneider, Van Blaricom, Vicker, Flanum, and Leonard. Nays: None Motion Carried. Motion by Alderperson, Flanum; seconded by Alderperson, Riemenschneider to adjourn at 5:51 PM. Ayes – 6 Nays – 0 Motion carried. Respectfully submitted, Patty Bjorklund Interim City Administrator/ City Clerk-Treasurer January 21, 2020 (February 4)

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AMERY FREE PRESS

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT POLK COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: John C. Luhman Notice to Creditors (Informal Administration) Case No. 20PR01 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: 1. An application for informal administration was filed. 2. The decedent, with date of birth June 22, 1937 and date of death November 26, 2019, was domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin, with a mailing address of 390 5th Street NW, Clear Lake, WI 54005. 3. All interested persons waived notice. 4. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is April 24, 2020. 5. A claim may be filed at the Polk County Courthouse, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, Room 500. Bryan D. Byrnes Byrnes Law Office, LLC 123 Keller Avenue N. Amery, WI 54001 715-268-5000 Bar No. 1032419

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF: Irene A. Paulson Notice to Creditors (Informal Administration) Case No. 20PR04 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: 1. An application for informal administration was filed. 2. The decedent, with date of birth February 27, 1928 and date of death December 2, 2019, was domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin, with a mailing address of 390 5th Street NW, Apt 105, Clear Lake, WI 54005. 3. All interested persons waived notice. 4. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is May 15, 2020. 5. A claim may be filed at the Polk County Courthouse, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, Room 500. Adam M. Jarchow Jarchow Law, LLC PO Box 117 Clear Lake, WI 54005 715-263-4200 Bar No. 1073678

BY THE COURT: Jenell L. Anderson Probate Registrar January 13, 2020

(January 21, 28, February 4)

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BY THE COURT: Jenell L. Anderson Probate Registrar January 27, 2020

(January 28, February 4, 11)

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CARD OF THANKS My special thanks to all who contributed to the happiness I enjoyed at the birthday celebration given by my family. It was wonderful to see everyone. Thanks to my family and all for making it a special day. Thanks for the cards and gifts. Gratefully, Fay Lee

Legal notices are posted online each week

31

Lake Wapogasset & Bear Trap Lake Sanitary District

MONTHLY MEETING

To be held February 10, 2020, at 7 p.m. at the District Of¿ce located at 777 South Shore Drive. AGENDA 1. Monthly of¿cers report 2. Old business 3. New business 4. Any other business that may be brought before the board. Dennis Badman, Secretary WNAXLP

MEETING NOTICE

Amery Lakes Protection and Rehabilitation District The Amery Lakes Protection and Rehabilitation District Board will hold its quarterly meeting on Tuesday, February 11, 2020 in the Media Center (Library) of the Amery Public High School starting at 6:30 pm. I. II. III. IV. V. VI.

Call Meeting to Order Minutes Treasurer Report Old Business New Business Adjourn

Submitted by Steve Schieffer, Chair

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theameryfreepress.com PUBLIC NOTICE Electronic Ballot Tabulation Under Wisconsin State Statute 5.84(1), public tests of the electronic ballot tabulation system will be held to ascertain that the equipment will correctly count the February 18, 2020 Spring Primary votes cast for all of¿ces and on all measures. All tests are open to the public. City of Amery - Monday, February 10 at 1 p.m. City Municipal Council Room, 118 Center St. W, Amery Patricia Bjorklund, Clerk, 715-268-7486

Village of Clayton - Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 4:30 p.m. Clayton Village Of¿ce, 111 Clayton Ave. W, Clayton Dave Fall, Clerk, 715-948-2460

Village of Clear Lake - Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 10 a.m.

Village Municipal Building, 350 4th Ave., Clear Lake Al Bannink, Clerk, 715-263-2157

Town of Alden - Wednesday, February 12 at 9:30 a.m. Town Hall, 183 155th St., Star Prairie Christine Genung, Clerk, 715-248-7859

Town of Apple River - Wednesday, Feb. 12 at 2 p.m.

REGULAR MEETING Town of Clear Lake

The Regular meeting of the Town of Clear Lake will be held at the Town Shop on Monday, February 10, 2020, at 7 p.m. AGENDA: 1. Meeting called to order 2. Reading and approval of last meeting’s minutes 3. Treasurer’s Report 4. Chairman’s Report 5. Approve payment of monthly bills 6. Ordinance Commission Report 7. Old Business: Electrical Ordinance 8. New Business: None 9. Road Maintenance 10. Adjourned Janelle Johnson, Town Clerk

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Town Hall, 612 US Highway 8 (Range), Amery JoAnn Agne, Clerk, 715-268-6506

Town of Beaver - Tuesday, February 11 at 6 p.m. Town Hall, 1541 Cty. Hwy. T, Turtle Lake Wendy Coleman, Clerk, 715-986-4725

Town of Black Brook - Tuesday, February 11 at 9 a.m. Town Hall, 99 75th St., Clear Lake Sally Pickard, Clerk, 715-268-2926

Town of Clayton - Monday, February 10 at 6 p.m. Town Hall, 462 105th Ave./Cty. Rd. D, Clayton Tracy LaBlanc, Clerk, 715-948-2036

Town of Clear Lake - Tuesday, February 11 at 10 a.m. Town Hall, 375 46th St., Clear Lake Janelle Johnson, Clerk, 715-948-2189

Town of Gar¿eld - Wednesday, February 5 at 9 a.m. Town Hall, 690 Minneapolis St., Wanderoos Sue Knutson, Clerk, 715-268-4414

Town of Lincoln - Wednesday, February 12 at 10 a.m. Town Hall, 661 85th St., Amery Stephanie Marciniak, Clerk, 715-268-4747

Town of Vance Creek - Tuesday, February 11 at 10:30 a.m. Town Hall, 174 2nd Ave., Cty Hwy. A, Reeve Glennis Lynch, Clerk, 715-455-1432

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PHONE: 715-268-8101 | FAX: 715-268-5300

32 AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 4, 2020 www.theameryfreepress.com

Subscribe to the . . . AMERY

215 S. Keller Ave. PO Box 424 Amery, WI 54001 Phone 715-268-8101 dstangl@theameryfreepress.com

DEADLINE

MONDAY NOON HELP WANTED

Looking for a reliable and energetic candidate with great customer service skills. This part-time position is for our Amery office. TO APPLY SEND RESUME TO:

Family Eye Clinic 120 North Keller Ave., Amery, WI 54001 715-268-9010 or via email @ amery@satterlundeyeclinic.com

Admissions Advisor Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College Rice Lake Campus WITC is seeking qualified candidates for a full-time Admissions Advisor at our Rice Lake Campus. The Admissions Advisor is responsible for providing information for all WITC programs, courses, and college services. This position creates ongoing relationships with potential students and assists them in their choice of post-secondary education and career training. This position is responsible for assisting in recruitment of students from all market segments and may require travel. For a complete job description, list of qualifications, and to apply: Visit our website at: https://www.witc.edu/about-witc/employment

Deadline to apply: February 19, 2020

Truck Driving Teaching Specialist - Adjunct

Reporter The Amery Free Press is seeking a freelance reporter to help report the news of our community. If you have a knack for seeing beyond the obvious and a well-developed sense of curiosity and enjoy sharing stories, this might be a great fit for you.

Send resume and writing clips to: April Ziemer, Editor, The Amery Free Press, P.O. Box 424, Amery, WI 54001 Email: editor@theameryfreepress.com

Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College Ashland & Rice Lake Campuses Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College is seeking applications from qualified candidates for the part-time role of Truck Driving Teaching Specialist at the WITC Ashland and Rice Lake Campuses. WITC is establishing a pool of qualified candidates to be considered when adjunct and/or substitute instructors are needed to teach Truck Driving behind the wheel.

Woodcraft Industries, a division of Quanex, is looking for a Plant Manager and 2nd shift Production Associates to join our team! We are a leading manufacturer in the building products industry and pride ourselves on safety, quality and a family atmosphere.

Deadline to apply: February 14, 2020 WITC is an Equal Opportunity/Access/ Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer and Educator

COACHES MIDDLE SCHOOL WRESTLING FOR THIS SEASON MIDDLE SCHOOL FOOTBALL

(3:30pm-2am M-Th)

Plant Manager

We are actively searching for individuals to fill the above positions.

We offer competitive wages, 3-day weekends, a 2nd shift premium of $1.50/hour, a complete benefits package including paid vacation, sick time, 9 paid holidays (plus 2 floating holidays), 4% - 401(k) match and a progressive work environment.

For more information or if you have questions, please contact Mary Schradle-Mau regarding the coaching positions at 715- 986-4470, Ext. 2213 or mschradle-mau@turtlelake.k12.wi.us.

Don’t miss this opportunity to join a dynamic, growth-oriented company!

All other inquires may be directed to the District Office at 715-986-4470.

Apply online at www.quanex.com/careers or stop in to fill out an application

An application can be obtained from our website www.turtlelake.k12.wi.us by clicking on “District” and then “Employment” or by contacting the District Office at 715-986-4470.

2nd shift Production

Woodcraft Industries A Quanex Company 501 Main Street South Luck, WI 54853 Quanex is an EEO employer. We maintain a drug & alcohol free work environment.

Clear Lake School District

Summer School Positions Available Job Title

DPI-Certified Teachers as well as ParaProfessionals (Aides) for Clear Lake School District Summer School program. Grades 4K-8th, remedial and enrichment classes offered.

Work Schedule June 9 (inservice day), then June 10-30, 2020; 8:00 a.m. to noon weekdays, plus one full day field trip June 29. How to Apply

TTY 711

SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS SUBSTITUTE CUSTODIANS SUBSTITUTE PARAPROFESSIONALS

CURRENT OPENINGS:

TTY 711

For a complete job description, list of qualifications, and to apply: Visit our website at: https://www.witc.edu/about-witc/employment

The School District of Turtle Lake is accepting applications for the following:

New Year, New Career!

WITC is an Equal Opportunity/Access/ Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer and Educator

Application deadline: Until filled. The School District of Turtle Lake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. The School District does not discriminate on the basis of sex, race, color, age, national origin, ancestry, creed, religion, pregnancy, marital or parental status, sexual orientation or physical, mental, emotional or learning disability.

Applications available (teacher and para) online at www.clwarriors.org or can be picked up at School Offices. Send completed applications to: Chris Petersen, Elementary Principal 135 Eighth Ave., Clear Lake, WI 54005 cpetersen@clwarriors.org

Deadline

Applications due by February 17, 2020

Website

www.clwarriors.org

The Clear Lake School District prepares students, in an active partnership with families and the community, to become lifelong learners and responsible citizens.

We’re Hiring School Bus Drivers!

The School District of Osceola is looking for both regular and extra-curricular trip School Bus Drivers! What does it take to become part of team? The ability to obtain a Class B Commercial Driver’s License with school bus endorsement, DOT Physical and criminal background check. We provide behind the wheel training to give you the skills necessary. Great pay and work schedule!

APPLY ONLINE www.osceola.k12.wi.us or call us at: 715-294-3456 School District of Osceola is an Equal Opportunity Employer

CLASSIFIEDS

FEBRUARY 4, 2020

AMERY FREE PRESS

33

www.theameryfreepress.com

LIBRARY: Finance Committee needs to review engineering proposals CONTINUED FROM PAGE 8

Hall space. â&#x20AC;&#x153;If somebody is not willing to buy it and repurpose it, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m guessing it will be torn down,â&#x20AC;? said Van Blaricom. Gloria Lansin asked if the Bremer Bank building has been inspected. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m guessing that is probably going to be part of the purchase,â&#x20AC;? said Strohbusch. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Guessing or expecting? I guess I have a problem that nobody knows about this. Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;m sorry but you four are the Finance Committee. I would think you would have those numbers sitting in front of you,â&#x20AC;? said Lansin. Van Blaricom held up a copy of one of the engineering proposals that was sitting in front of committee members. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is the proposal. You are already about three weeks ahead of most of us. We are just looking at hiring the engineering firm,â&#x20AC;? he said. Someone from the crowd asked, â&#x20AC;&#x153;When did you learn of all of this? We just heard it â&#x20AC;&#x201C;bam.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;I know and we really got ripped in the paper because of it,â&#x20AC;? said Van Blaricom. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The end of July it got started,â&#x20AC;? he said. Someone asked why wasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t the community asked their thoughts? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Because the bank couldnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t make any announcements because they didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have

APRIL ZIEMER | AMERY FREE PRESS

Wendy Dietrich, current Library Board President, addresses members of the Finance Committee.

land available. The hospital didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to make any announcements without being approved by Health Partners,â&#x20AC;? said Van Blaricom. He said it was important to the council that Bremer Bank stay and build a facility within Amery. Then he and Strohbusch disagreed on whether the bank said they would spend $5 million on a new facility in town, which is what Van Blaricom recalled, or $500,000, which is what Strohbusch thought. Someone asked, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Have any other options besides this one option been explored or is this the option you are exploring?â&#x20AC;? To which Strohbusch replied, â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is the option we are exploring.â&#x20AC;? The attendee who

asked then questioned, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Why?â&#x20AC;? Strohbusch said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Because it is the only facility of size to put all of the facilities in one operation.â&#x20AC;? Then someone asked, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Is it too late to explore other options?â&#x20AC;? Strohbusch said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;If someone wanted to bring a proposal to the city council, we would look at it.â&#x20AC;? An attendee said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;So it would have to be a proposal not an exploration of ideas?â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yes,â&#x20AC;? responded Strohbusch. John Thompson, Director of the IFLS library system, addressed the committee. He wondered what the role of the library board and staff would be when assessing the available space in the new area. He asked, â&#x20AC;&#x153;If the engineering firm determines the space is not adequate to hold all of the city facilities in one place, would the city be looking at WŽůŏ ŽƾŜĆ&#x161;Ç&#x2021; ŽčÄ&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ć? Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ć? Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x161; DÄ&#x201A;ĆŠÄ&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Í&#x160; :Ĺ˝Ĺ?Ĺś ĆľĆ? Ć&#x161;Ĺ˝ ĹľÄ&#x201A;ĹŹÄ&#x17E; Ä&#x201A; Ĺ?ÄŤÄ&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;ĹśÄ?Ä&#x17E;Í&#x2013; dĹ˝Ĺ?Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152; alternatives after that?â&#x20AC;? Strohbusch said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We ZÄ&#x17E;Ä?Ç&#x2021;Ä?ĹŻĹ?ĹśĹ? >Ä&#x201A;Ä?Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;ÍŹ Ć&#x152;Ĺ?Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152; ZÄ&#x17E;Ä?Ç&#x2021;Ä?ĹŻĹ?ĹśĹ? Ä&#x17E;ĹśĆ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152; are not at that point. I cannot give you a good &ƾůůͲĆ&#x;ĹľÄ&#x17E;ÍŹEŽŜͲ Ç&#x2020;Ä&#x17E;ĹľĆ&#x2030;Ć&#x161; WÄ&#x201A;Ç&#x2021;Í&#x2014; ΨϭϴÍ&#x2DC;Ď´Ďľ answer.â&#x20AC;? Thompson said the timeline that hĹśÄ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152; Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; Ä&#x161;Ĺ?Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;Ä?Ć&#x161; Ć?ĆľĆ&#x2030;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;Ç&#x20AC;Ĺ?Ć?Ĺ?ŽŜ ŽĨ Ć&#x161;Ĺ&#x161;Ä&#x17E; ZÄ&#x17E;Ä?Ç&#x2021;Ä?ĹŻĹ?ĹśĹ? &Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ä&#x17E;ĹľÄ&#x201A;Ĺś Ć&#x2030;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;ĨŽĆ&#x152;ĹľĆ? has been bantered

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going forward. One of the questions I have is if we can have a committee that would get to hear what is happening with representatives with each of the involved entities?â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;The city appropriates a certain amount to fund the library. We also have Act 150, where we get funds from counties to fund our library. I have a document that shows in 2009, city appropriations for the library were $196,631.00, 10 years later, in 2019, they were $200,000. Act 150 was $162,000 in 2009 and in 2019 the number increased to $225,000.00. So I would venture to say we are attracting people from around the county to our facility,â&#x20AC;? Dietrich said. She told the group the number of registered users for the library is 3839. Of that number, 1309 are city residents and 2530 are not. Ashley Long approached the podium and said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You quoted a number from 2017 for the HVAC repair, is there a current?â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;That would be done by the hospital,â&#x20AC;? said Van Blaricom. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have spoken with the CEO of the hospital and she said there is no difference in the HVAC needed for the hospital and the library, so I am frustrated with the misinformation and I would like to see the numbers that are driving the library out. You are quoting 2017 and I would encourage you to get something up to date. Debra Rudquist said there is no firm number on the HVAC. I would encourage the Finance Committee to look more indepth if that is the reason you are going to transition,â&#x20AC;? said Long. She then asked if there was money set aside for the project. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are working on funding for this project,â&#x20AC;? said Strohbusch. â&#x20AC;&#x153;So, does that mean no?â&#x20AC;? asked an audience member. SEE LIBRARY, PAGE 36

Ä&#x161;ĹľĹ?ĹśĹ?Ć?Ć&#x161;Ć&#x152;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x;Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E; Ć?Ć?Ĺ?Ć?Ć&#x161;Ä&#x201A;ĹśĆ&#x161; ĎŻ ÍždĆ&#x152;Ä&#x201A;ĹśĆ?Ć&#x2030;Ĺ˝Ć&#x152;Ć&#x161;Ä&#x201A;Ć&#x;ŽŜ WĆ&#x152;Ĺ˝Ĺ?Ć&#x152;Ä&#x201A;žͿ 'Ĺ˝Ç&#x20AC;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;ŜžÄ&#x17E;ĹśĆ&#x161; Ä&#x17E;ĹśĆ&#x161;Ä&#x17E;Ć&#x152;

about sees the library moving this summer, he wondered if that was flexible? â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are taking the needs of the library into consideration, â&#x20AC;&#x153; said Strohbusch. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You are asking questions I wish I knew answers to, but we are just not that far along in the process,â&#x20AC;? Strohbusch said. Van Blaricom said they would be taken library input into consideration. When Thompson asked if the location of the library inside of the bubble of the new building was flexible, Strohbusch said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;You are several steps ahead of us and we are not ready to answer that.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Part of my job responsibility is helping consult with libraries building, planning is one of those areas so what I have been explaining to the library board in the last couple of weeks is wanting to advocate for the needs of the community. I think part of the angst of people is that if the library is going to move they want to go up not lateral or behind, so that is what I am going to be advising the library board moving forward,â&#x20AC;? said Thompson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The seven people who sit at this table all feel the same way,â&#x20AC;? said Van Blaricom. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Square footage and brick and mortar are very expensive, is it not?â&#x20AC;? Strohbusch asked Thompson. â&#x20AC;&#x153;We are trying to look at expenses five years down the road. Part of the reason I sit on this city council is so that his children, her children and your children have a good city,â&#x20AC;? said Strohbusch. Thompson said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Part of what I do is make sure that no library has to sacrifice.â&#x20AC;? Wendy Dietrich, President of the library board said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;We hope as a library board we can be a part of the conversation

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Packed house for Love Your Library and Historical Society APRIL ZIEMER | AMERY FREE PRESS

The Amery Historical Society has a very wide range of local artifacts, including school items shown to the left.

APRIL ZIEMER | AMERY FREE PRESS

APRIL ZIEMER | AMERY FREE PRESS

Above: Members of the St. Croix Valley Orchestra provided music to library visitors last Saturday.

Right: Julie Schanon performs a spinning demonstration with the assistance of a furry friend.

APRIL ZIEMER | AMERY FREE PRESS

Left: Jim Meyer shows youngster Walker Kuhl an old shoe repair kit located at the Historical Society. APRIL ZIEMER | AMERY FREE PRESS

Above: Notes were perched upon the glass of the library entrance with reasons people love their local library.

We love to hear from our subscribers, advertisers and readers. Here are the many ways you can contact us: Mail: Amery Free Press, Box 424, Amery, WI 54001 Phone: 715-268-8101 FAX: 715-268-5300 Email: Tom Stangl: tstangl@ theameryfreepress.com April Ziemer: editor@ theameryfreepress.com Pam Humpal: phumpal@ theameryfreepress.com Jamie Stewart: classifieds@ theameryfreepress.com Diane Stangl: dstangl@ theameryfreepress.com Nicole Gagner: ngagner@ theameryfreepress.com Our office is located at 215 Keller Ave. S. We are open from 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. Monday - Friday

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LIBRARY: Meeting attendees confused over differing city and hospital information CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

“We are working on funding for this project,” Strohbusch repeated. “So currently there is no money set aside?” asked the same audience member. “Yes or no?” she said. “Do we have a pot of money? No. Are we working on funding? Yes,” said Strohbusch. Van Blaricom said the goal was to have the needs of the library, police and City Hall assessed by the February council meeting. “Will the pot of money be set aside by February?” was asked from the audience. “Like every major project that governments do, you can’t

put money aside as it is illegal to tax for some things so there is never a pot of money for anything but normal operating expenses that go on throughout the year,” said Van Blaricom Council member Sarah Flanum said, “For clarification, for the February meeting we plan to go through the engineers’ RFPs and make a recommendation to the council (from the Finance Committee) to approve the engineer. That does not mean that we are going to know anything besides that.” It was asked if it was a possibility for the library to stay put until renovations were completed in the current

Bremer building for less disruption to the library. “We can’t make promises. It would be my preference that the library be moved in the summer months when it is warm out,” said Strohbusch. Another question that came up multiple times was whether or not the hospital has been asked if the land that the library and police buildings sit on could be purchased by the city. “Has anybody ever asked that?” asked an audience member. “No,” said Strohbusch. Later in the evening when the same question was asked again, his answer changed. He later said they talked about it initially and the answer

Musical Chairs at Polk County BY APRIL ZIEMER EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

Clerk of Court vacancies have become somewhat common lately in Polk County. The recent resignation of Joan Ritten has led to the reassignment of some positions in Polk County and on Tuesday, January 21, Sharon Jorgenson was sworn in by Judge Jeffery Anderson as the county’s newest Clerk of Courts. Ritten, was elected as Clerk of Courts in November 2018. Previous to being elected, she had filled in twice, completing the terms for clerks who had prematurely left their positions. Jorgenson resigned her elected position as Polk County Clerk Friday, Jan. 17, which allowed her to be appointed to the open Polk County Clerk of Courts position. Jorgenson worked as Deputy Clerk of Courts from 2012 until she was

elected County Clerk. “I am happy to join the very competent staff in the Clerk of Circuit Court Office who provide valuable support in multiple areas and are the backbone of the office. While the position of Clerk of Circuit Court is an essential role, the dedicated staff in the office are very vital in day to day operations. They are literally the lifeline of an organization and I am very thankful for them! I worked in the Clerk of Court office from 2012 to 2016 previously and am currently in the process of getting up to speed on the e-filing process and refreshing my knowledge in other areas as well. I hope to foster a cohesive team environment where employees use their unique strengths and talents for individual growth as well as allowing the office to continue to flourish and improve,” said Jorgenson.

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Polk County Board of Supervisors was left with the task of appointing someone to fill the remainder of Jorgenson’s 2020 County Clerk term. The board chose Lisa Ross, who had been working as Deputy County Clerk. “I am grateful for the opportunity to jump into the County Clerk role and for the confidence and support I’ve received from the Board of Supervisors and from Administrator Netherland as well as from my coworkers and from the public. I’m especially grateful to Stephanie Fansler and Marilyn Blake (who both retired from this office last year) for coming back to assist our office as temporary help as we are transitioning. I’ve thrived in past work experiences that have had unexpected transitions similar to this and I’m excited for the challenges ahead,” said Ross.

from the hospital years ago was “No.” Van Blaricom said, “Do you remember who the mayor was when that took place? I rest my case.” It was then asked if it was something the Finance Committee would explore to which Tim Strohbusch said, “We don’t have a pot of money for that.” When frustration arose again over the HVAC debate, an attendee said, “I am little confused.” Strohbusch replied, “We are only given the facts we were told. If the hospital is telling you something else, you can take that up with them.”

We love to hear from our subscribers, advertisers and readers. Here are the many ways you can contact us: Mail: Amery Free Press, Box 424, Amery, WI 54001 Phone: 715-268-8101 FAX: 715-268-5300