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FREE PRESS MESSENGER AMERY

TUESDAY,SEPTEMBER DECEMBER33, 20,2222 2016 THURSDAY,

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JUDGE: Three apply for Polk County appointment PAGE 8A

‘Road Diet’ proposed for Amery’s Hwy 46

COUNTRY

DOT to gather public input at January 5 meeting

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Serving Marine-on-St. Croix, Scandia, May Township

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BY JESSICA DE LA CRUZ EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

Secretary Michelle Moore, enough to pay off the negative balances of every school lunch account in the Amery School District.

“It just makes me so happy, to think about all those parents being surprised,” she says.

For many of the families who make just over the limit to qualify for free or reduced lunch, this time

Wisconsin DOT officials believe that slimming down with a ‘road diet’ may be just what the doctor ordered for many of Amery’s pedestrian and traffic-safety issues.

Road diets are becoming a popular trend throughout the state. They effectively narrow four lanes of traffic down to three—one in each direction with a shared center turn lane.

The DOT will hold a meeting January 5 to gather public input on a proposed road diet THURSDAY, stretchingSEPTEMBER the entire 33, 1.92222 mile length of Keller VOL. 131 NO. 19from www.moraminn.com $1.00 Avenue Amery’s York Park at the north, to Snow Street at the south.

Greg Helgeson, Northwest Region Traffic Safety Engineer with the Wisconsin DOT, says they were first approached by the city early in 2016 about options that could alleviate pedestrian safety concerns.

“We did a little bit more investigation ourselves and decided [with a road diet] there would be a definite improvement not only for

SEE GIFT PAGE 2A

SEE DIET PAGE 2A

SENTINEL BURNETT COUNTY

Nancy Sigsworth (left) of Ruby’s Pantry presents a check for $4,642.80 to Michelle Moore (center) and Anne Monette of the Amery School Nutrition Department. The funds were enough to pay off the negative lunch balances of every student in the district.

Clean Slate: Ruby’s Pantry wipes out negative balances on Amery school lunch accounts

BY JESSICA DE LA CRUZ EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

Using some of the proceeds from Amery’s Ruby’s Pantry events, Ruby’s Pantry volunteer Nancy Sigsworth got to play Santa to a lot of unsuspecting parents on Friday.

She presented a check for $4,642.80 to Nutrition

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The Christmas Story St. Luke 2: 1-20

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nd it came to pass in those days, that there went out a decree from Caesar Augustus, that all the world should be taxed.

And this taxing was first made when Cyrenius was governor of Syria.

And all went to be taxed, every one into his own city.

And Joseph also went up from Galilee, out of the city of Nazareth, into Judaea, unto the city of David, which is called Bethlehem; because he was of the house and lineage of David.

To be taxed with Mary, his espoused wife, being great with child.

And so it was, that, while they went there, the days were accomplished that she should be delivered.

And she brought forth her firstborn son, and wrapped him in swaddling clothes, and laid him in a manger; because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were in the same country shepherds abiding in the field, keeping watch over their flock by night.

THE SUN SEE CHRISTMAS PAGE 8A

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This century-old German-made nativity scene was found unusable in the basement of Elim Luth. Church in Range. It was saved and lovingly restored by church members Julie Cardinal and Mary Appel and recently displayed at St. Joseph’s in Amery.

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GIFT: Ruby’s Pantry urges everyone to use the program, proceeds help the community FROM PAGE 1A

of year can be especially challenging.

“I had a couple families that were severely negative,” says Moore. “It does get higher at Christmas season because they have to choose. And I have some families that barely get out of the hole and pay just what they can.”

Moore says the school planned to surprise families with the news on Monday. “It’s amazing. I’ve never had this happen before. This is a wonderful thing,” she adds.

Sigsworth explains that ten percent of the $20 donation people give at Ruby’s Pantry stays in our community

‘The more people we have the more good we can do in our community.’

Nancy Sigsworth Ruby’s Pantry of Amery for various benevolence projects. Historically these funds have gone toward

scholarships, as well as a car care ministry where locals in need can get assistance with car repairs.

She urges everyone to support our local Ruby’s Pantry.

“Ruby’s Pantry is for everyone that eats. If you eat you qualify,” says Sigsworth. “Some come because they could use the help in stretching their food budget and others come to ensure that our numbers are up to keep getting the food truck coming each month.

“If it’s too much food for your house

I am certain that you have a neighbor, friend or family member to share the food with. The more people we have the more good we can do in our community.”

Ruby’s Pantry is held the 2nd Saturday of each month at Amery’s Congregational Church at 201 Harriman Ave. North. Doors open at 7:30 and distribution begins at 9:30. Be sure to bring your own baskets or boxes for food.

DIET: DOT project would have numerous benefits to pedestrian and traffic safety FROM PAGE 1A

pedestrians but also for traffic safety,” says Helgeson. The DOT’s use of traffic cameras to monitor downtown parking maneuvers this fall was all in an effort to see if a road diet could work.

National studies show road diets can reduce total crashes by 29 percent, largely by reducing rear-end collisions and improving visibility of lefthand turns.

Helgeson explains there are many benefits for pedestrian safety as well, such as eliminating incidents where a vehicle in one lane stops for a pedestrian but the adjacent lane does not, or when traffic is blocked from view of the pedestrian entirely.

As for speed limits? Helgeson says it hasn’t been addressed.

Yet.

“What a road diet will tend to do is calm the traffic a bit, because you can’t pass anymore. If this were to go in, based on what type of calming effect we were to get, we would then evaluate the speed limits after that.”

The closest road diet went into Barron several years ago, although Helgeson admits that the traffic from sand trucks was not accounted for during planning. Safety wise they’ve been pleased with Barron’s results, but current traffic has stretched the limits of the project.

Other cities benefitting from the road diet craze include River Falls, Medford, Ladysmith and Arcadia. And cities on board for their own future slim down include Rice Lake, Hayward and Spooner.

As for Amery, Helgeson explains that the City of Lakes

isn’t dealing with the same kinds of truck-traffic issues as Barron.

“We think it’s a really good fit based on the volume of traffic here. It’s also a really good candidate for this safety money,” referring to grants from the state funded Highway Safety Improvement Plan (HSIP).

“These are funds that are reserved just for safety related issues. We’ve run that analysis in Amery and it’s a really good investment for the state.”

Helgeson thinks that if all the stars were to align, the project could be slated for 2020.

“Right now the project is in the DOT’s hands, and we’re intending to apply for funding assuming we get public support,” says Helgeson.

Being a DOT project on a state highway, the city’s input

in the matter purely informational. In fact, Mayor Kay Erickson had no awareness of the proposal when asked for comment.

Nevertheless, Helgeson adds that Amery is an excellent candidate for the concept.

“For a lot of people it’s counter intuitive, they say it’s like we’re taking something away from them.”

But add up all of the added benefits to pedestrian and traffic safety, and Helgeson says in most cases road diets are a good fit.

The proposed plan would include a light milling the road before adding a fresh layer of asphalt and new markings. It would also update all sidewalk ramps to meet the current Americans with Disabilies Act (ADA) codes, and potentially add bump-out curbs at pedestrian crossings for bet-

ter visibility.

“We’ll also be able to stripe some bike lanes, because we would have room for that,” adds Helgeson.

“It’s kind of an added benefit. We’re being more pedestrian and bike friendly, but we’re also improving the traffic safety.”

A public information meeting will be held January 5 from 5 to 7 p.m. at Amery’s City Hall. Those who own businesses downtown are especially encouraged to attend.

“We want to get the word out about what we’re proposing, and then get feedback about things that we’re not aware of.”

WisDOT representatives will be available to discuss the project on an individual basis after a short presentation.

Amery among 433 districts recognized for AP achievement

Amery School District is one of 433 in over 25,000 school districts in the United States and Canada being honored by the College Board with placement on the 7th Annual Advanced Placement (AP)® District Honor Roll.

To be included on the 7th Annual Honor Roll, Amery High School had to, since 2014, increase the number of students taking Advanced Placement (AP) tests while also increasing or maintaining the percentage of students earning AP Exam scores of 3 or higher on a 5 point scale. Reaching these goals shows that this district is successfully identifying motivated, academically prepared students who are ready for AP. Amery High School Principal Shawn

Doerfler noted of this achievement, “It has always been the focus of Amery High School to prepare students for academically rigorous pursuits, and, further, to prepare students to succeed when they seek to take on such challenges. The distinction of being selected for the AP Honor Roll is confirmation that our focus has been well chosen, and our time has been well spent. I offer my congratulations to our students, this year’s seniors and last year’s seniors who took one or more AP tests, and the district staff who positioned them for such great success.”

National data from 2016 show that among black/African American, Hispanic, and Native American students

JESSICA DE LA CRUZ | AMERY FREE PRESS

Some of Amery’s AP Seniors pose for a photo with their instructors.

with a high degree of readiness for AP, only about half are participating.

The first step to getting more of these students to participate is to give them access. Courses must be made available, staff allowed to prepare students for such rigorous academic classes, and doors to student success equitably opened for all students. Amery High School is committed to expanding the availability of AP courses among prepared and motivated students of all backgrounds.

“Congratulations to all the teachers and administrators in the Amery School District who have worked so tirelessly to both expand access to AP and also to help students succeed on the AP Exams,” said Trevor Packer, the College Board’s head of Advanced Placement and Instruction. “These teachers and administrators are delivering real opportunity in their schools and classrooms, and students are rising to the challenge.” Helping more students learn at a higher level and earn higher AP scores is an objective of all members of the AP community, from AP teachers to district and school administrators to college professors.

Many districts are experimenting with initiatives and strategies to see how they can expand access and improve student performance at the same time.

In 2016, more than 4,000 colleges and universities around the world received AP scores for college credit, ad-

vanced placement, or both, and/or consideration in the admission process.

Inclusion on the 7th Annual AP District Honor Roll is based on a review of three years of AP data, from 2014 to 2016, looking across 37 AP Exams, including world language and culture.

The following criteria were used.

Districts must: Increase participation/access to AP by at least 4% in large districts, at least 6 % in medium districts, and at least 11% in small districts; Increase or maintain the percentage of exams taken by black/African American, Hispanic/Latino, and American Indian/Alaska Native students; and Improve or maintain performance levels when comparing the 2016 percentage of students scoring a 3 or higher to the 2014 percentage, unless the district has already attained a performance level at which more than 70% of its AP students earn a 3 or higher.

When these outcomes have been achieved among an AP student population in which 30% or more are underrepresented minority students (black/ African American, Hispanic/Latino, and American Indian/Alaska Native) and/or 30% or more are low-income students (students who qualify for free or reduced-price lunch), a symbol has been affi xed to the district name to highlight this work.

DECEMBER 20, 2016

OUT&ABOUT

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DECEMBER 22 Clear Lake Empty Bowls

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.

Due to the weather, Clear Lake’s Empty Bowls fundraiser to benefit local backpack programs was rescheduled for Thursday, December 22 from 4 to 6:30 p.m. at Clear Lake High School. Come enjoy a hot bowl of soup and take home your own handmade ceramic bowl.

Stay for the Clear Lake vs.

Amery Boys Basketball game.

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.

DECEMBER 23 John Legut Memorial Cup Enjoy a great hockey game featuring Amery alumni and help raise funds for educational scholarships. Game starts at 7:30 p.m. at the Amery Ice Arena. Admission is $3 for adults, $2 for students, and children 6 and under are free. Hockey alumni interested in playing please contact Andrea Legut at andrealegut@yahoo.com or call 715-781-0710.

DECEMBER 25 Christmas Day Dinner Amery Community Center cordially invites you to a Christmas Day Dinner at 2 p.m. Cost of the dinner is a free will donation. The first 96 people will receive Christmas gifts! RSVP to 715-268-6605.

DECEMBER 28 Free Holiday Community Skate Celebrate the Holidays with the 40th Anniversary of the Amery Youth Hockey Association. The rink will be open for a free Holiday community skate from 6 to 8 p.m. on December 28. Come enjoy free skate rentals and a decorated indoor rink. Free hockey jerseys to elementary school age children while supplies last.

Free hot drinks, holday music, holiday movie and an outdoor bonfire will be sponsored by the Amery Fire Department.

Cookies and food available for purchase.

Theater auditions Amery Community Theater will hold auditions for the female version of ‘The Odd Couple,’ at 7 p.m. at Deronda Lutheran Church in Amery. The cast requires six women and two men. Call Jim with questions at 715-410-4547.

JANUARY 1 Stower Trail First Hike and Bike Start the year off with some great outdoor excercise.

Friends of the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail will host a ‘First Hike and Bike’ event beginning at the Nye Parking Lot at 10 a.m. Hike, fat bike, or ski as ittle or as much as you’d like. Event is free and open to

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

Food Collection

Amery Intermediate School Students have been busy collecting non-perishable food items. During the week of December 5th, they collected a total of 546 items to donate to our local food shelf. Great job!

the public, but a 2017 Wisconsin Trail Pass is needed to Ski or Fat Bike. Passes available at the event or next door at Brother’s Country Mart.

Interstate Park First Hike Interstate Park will host a ‘First Day Hike’ on January 1 from 9 to 11 a.m. The event will include three trails: the St. Croix River, Civilian Conservation Corp. Quarry, and Silver Brook. Refreshments will be served in the Ice Age Center.

JANUARY 5 Takedown Cancer The Amery Wrestling Club will be hosting a TakeDown Cancer event on Thursday, January 5 at 7 p.m. in the Amery High School gymnasium, teaming up with their opponents, St. Croix Central, to help raise funds for cancer research. Purchase apparel items now or at the day of teh event. Simply email, takedownc a nc er a mer y @ g m a i l .c om .

The night of the event will also include cocessions and a “Dash for Cash” and honorary/memorial wall tributes. All proceeds benefit The Randy Shaver Cancer Research and Community Fund. For more information, please visit www.takedowncancer.org

Public Mtg. for Hwy 46 The WisDOT will host a public information meeting to discuss traffic and pedestrian safety improvements to Highway 46 in Amery. The meeting is scheduled for 5 to 7 p.m. at Amery City Hall.

JANUARY 8

Power up Open Gym A Powerup Open Gym for families with children of all ages will be held at the Amery Intermediate School from 1:30 to 3:30. Enter through the north doors. Parents/guardians must stay in the gym with their children.

JANUARY 28 Youth in Harmony The Youth In Harmony Festival is a one day festival for grades 6 through college. This years festival is at Amery High School on January 28th 2017.

Students will learn about close harmony and enjoy the music of some top notch teaching quartets. They will then perform a free concert at 4:30 that afternoon. The concert should last about one hour.

Registration is between 8:30 and 9am. Cost $10 per student.

Registration includes: Music, Learning Tracks (when available), Lunch, Snack, T-Shirt.

Please note: If your student has special dietary needs.....a sack lunch should be brought to the event.More information available at www.youthinharmonyfestival.org.

Candlelight Ski Friends of the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail will host a Candlelight ski or snowshoe event from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. beginning at Soo Line Park in Amery. Luminaries will light the way to County Road C, a four mile round trip. Stargazing will take place from 6 to 7:30 p.m., and fat biking will take place from 7 to 9 p.m. 2017 State Trail Passes are required for those 16 and over who are biking or skiing. Passes available at the event.

ONGOING Pickleball Open gym will be held for pickleball players throughout the winter beginning in November. The High School gym will be open for playing on Wednesdays from 5:45 to 8 p.m.

Cost is free. Inexperienced players welcome.

Ruby’s Pantry Held the 2nd Saturday of each month at the Congregational Church in Amery. Doors open at 7:30, food distribution from 9-10:30.

PLACING AN AD: phumpal@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 Jessica de la Cruz, Editor Pam Humpal, Advertising Manager Bette Elmer, Graphic Design Diane Stangl, Circulation/Office Mike Jacob, Sales Representative 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

Open Gym -Basketball Boys and Girls in grades 4-12 and their families can enjoy supervised free-play basketball on Sundays from 1:30 to 3:30 at the Amery Middle School Gym through March 12. Event is free. (Use north doors, closed Dec. 25 and Jan 1)

Open studio Mondays Bring your art supplies and equipment to artZ for an extra bit of guidance during ‘Open studio Mondays,’ every 4th Monday of the month at artZ Gallery in Amery. Get guidance and creative support in finishing your paintings, pastels and mixed media projects.

Cost is $5.00, open 10:30 to 4.

Song Circlde Song Circle meets the second Sunday of every month at the St. Croix Falls Public Libraryn(230 S. Washington, St. Croix Falls, Wis.) from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Questions? Call Lia Falls, 715-501-4487.

More events online at theameryfreepress.com

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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Christmas is for children of all ages

OPINION

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

BY TOM STANGL FROM THE PUBLISHER’S DESK

Well, Christmas is knocking on our doors. I hope you are ready and are able to spend time with friends and family, which is the best gift one can receive. Throughout my newspaper career, I have run the following editorial, the most famous newspaper editorial of all time, reprinted here because it fits the season.

As children grow older and wiser, parents inevitably are faced with the question, “Is there a Santa Claus?” When Virginia O’Hanlon asked that of her parents in 1897, Publisher question they suggested she write the Tom Stangl New York Sun for an answer.

She did, and Francis P. Church, a Civil War correspondent, wrote an editorial response which has become an American literary classic. Mr. Church died in 1906. The New York Sun closed its doors in 1950. Virginia O’Hanlon Douglas died in 1971 after a distinguished career as a teacher and administrator in the New York City school system. However, the letter from Virginia, and Mr. Church’s response, will live forever as a part of our Christmas heritage. It is still a wonderful answer to a very difficult question.

Dear Editor: I am 8 years old. Some of my little friends say there is no Santa Claus. Papa says, “If you see it in The Sun it’s so.” Please tell me the truth; is there a Santa Claus?

Virginia O’Hanlon Virginia, your little friends are wrong. They have been affected by the skepticism of a skeptical age. They do not believe except they see. They think that nothing can be which is not comprehensible by their little minds. All minds, Virginia, whether they be men’s or children’s are little.

In this great universe of ours man is a mere insect, an ant, in his intellect, as compared with the boundless world about him, as measured by the intelligence capable of grasping the whole of truth and knowledge.

Yes, Virginia, there is a Santa Claus. He exists as certainly as love and generosity and devotion exist, and you know that they abound and give to your life its highest beauty and joy. Alas! How dreary would be the world if there were no Santa Claus! It would be as dreary as if there were no Virginias. There would be no childlike faith then, no poetry, no romance to make tolerable this existence. We should have no enjoyment, except in sense and sight. The eternal light with which childhood fills the world would be extinguished.

Not believe in Santa Claus! You might as well not believe in fairies! You might get your papa to hire men to watch in all the chimneys on Christmas Eve to catch Santa Claus, but even if they did not see Santa Claus coming down, what would that prove? Nobody sees Santa Claus, but that is no sign that there is no Santa Claus. The most real things in the world are those that neither children nor men can see. No Santa Claus!

Thank God, he lives, and he lives forever. A thousand years from now. Virginia, nay, ten time ten thousand years from now, he will continue to make glad the hearts of childhood.

From The New York Sun, September 21,1897 To our valued friends, subscribers & advertisers, best wishes for a happy holiday season - Merry Christmas!

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.

Building a better future for Northern Wisconsin SENATOR JANET BEWLEY SENATE DISTRICT 25

Earlier this week I meet with members of the Northwoods Area Builder’s Association. We talked about how we can work together to preserve and promote safe and affordable housing for the people of northwest Wisconsin. As builders, they understand that you can’t build a strong building on a weak foundation.

Cutting corners might provide a quick Sen. Janet fi x, but it hurts evBewley eryone in the long run. The same is true when it comes to preserving and promoting economic opportunities in northwest Wisconsin.

Unfortunately, the Walker Administration is pursuing policies that shortchange taxpayers who work for a living in our part of the state.

Despite spotty and too often non-existent internet access in Northern Wisconsin, the Administration this week announced plans to phase out telephone access for job seekers applying for unemployment benefits they have earned – soon, the only way to fi le for unemployment will be online. Starting in April, job seekers without internet at home will have to travel to someplace with reliable internet access. The Walker Administration implied

the change isn’t a big deal, suggesting claimants visit a “local” library -- which in our area are not served by public transportation, are hard to get to in winter and have limited hours.

Unemployment is not only vital to the workers who qualify for it, and their families, but can be even more important to employers and to our area’s economy. Grocers, retailers and suppliers count on these working families year round, not just during the busy tourism and construction season.

Policies that take resources out of our economy may be a short term fi x for current state budget woes, but threaten to do long term damage to Northern Wisconsin.

Just over a year ago, the Administration imposed another change to unemployment for seasonal workers that severely reduced the ability of construction, tourism and other seasonal businesses in our part of the state to keep workers by forcing them to take work in other areas or states that face less harsh winters.

These and other Walker administration policies are not producing results for working families.

Just this month new data showed Wisconsin continues to trail the national economy in private sector job creation. In fact, five years after the Walker Administration put the scandal-plagued WEDC in charge of job creation, we had our worst second quarter for private sector jobs since the end of the Great Recession. Wisconsin has

trailed the national average for 20 straight quarters -- five full years – that’s every year since the first Walker budget.

At the same time, a handout snuck into the 2011 state budget goes far beyond helping smaller manufacturers who are actually creating jobs and gives big payoffs to special interests that do not create -- or even eliminate – jobs. Under the Manufacturing tax credit that took effect in 2013, Wisconsinites who work for a living will be forced to pay $209 million next year alone to investors who don’t have to create a single new job in order to qualify for the tax break.

The most recent jobs report shows that Wisconsin lost 2,700 manufacturing jobs.

Taxpayers who work for a living shouldn’t be forced to give a handout to campaign donors who have failed to create manufacturing jobs.

And taxpayers who work for a living in seasonal occupations certainly shouldn’t be denied access to unemployment benefits.

I have introduced legislation to address the seasonal worker change, a bill to redirect resources to our local roads that are currently squandered on the shameless giveaway and I will work with my colleagues to fight the change eliminating telephone access to unemployment. The time has come to stop accepting quick fi xes and shortcuts. The people of Northern and rural Wisconsin deserve better.

‘Letters to the Editor’ are due by Monday at noon.

Send your letters to: editor@theameryfreepress.com

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DECEMBER 20, 2016

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LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Proud To Be An American

Election Reflection To the Editor, Now that most of the proverbial “dust” has settled in relation to the 2016 National Election, I’ve finally calmed down enough to make some observations. I would be lying if I said I was happy about who will be our forty-fi fth President. But I was not one-hundred-percent behind Hillary Clinton even though I think she would have been a better choice.

The lure of someone like Donald Trump, a modern day Pied Piper in my estimation, is understandable. What I find fascinating is how so many voters were willing to overlook Trump’s past. Will he be able to make America great again? His supporters believe we can turn back the clock to a time when America was on top of the economic “heap.” However, those days are gone and will not be returning no matter how many tariffs we impose on foreign goods.

He can’t build a wall high enough to keep every immigrant from

At the same time we want to be able to buy sixty-inch, flat-screen televisions for $1000, but fail to realize that those televisions are being manufactured in factories where the workers earn three dollars an hour or less. If we want to support American made goods, we are going to have to be willing to pay a great deal more for that television…something the American public is unwilling to do.

Until the American public’s expectations are more in sync with the realities of the global economy, we will continue to experience these extreme swings in political climate. None of the presidential candidates were willing to tell the American public the unvarnished truth because he or she would not stand a chance of being elected.

It’s time someone did.

crossing our border nor can he stop the technology which is rendering many low skilled jobs obsolete.

The high-paying factory jobs that made America’s middle class something to be envied around the world are a thing of the past.

Unless you have skills that twenty-first century companies want, you will be left behind in the dust.

Government cannot change global trends. The gap between the “haves” and “have-nots” is not going to change significantly, and the government cannot tax this country into prosperity by taking more from those at the top.

I wish Mr. Trump every success in the coming four years but I fear he will discover what all his predecessors have—that it is impossible to satisfy the needs and wants of the public. We want to all have high paying jobs, live in beautiful houses in safe neighborhoods and drive new BMWs, i.e. we want to be Donald Trump.

Judy Iverson Clayton, Wis.

Remember the reason for the season To the Editor Samuel Rindlisbacher wrote an article in the December issue of Midnight call magazine titled “May We Celebrate Christmas?”

He reminds us that in the Old Testament in the Bible, followers of God were mandated by God to have several feasts and celebrations of remembrance. Some were somber but many were joyous and even lasted several days.

bake the cookies, give gifts, reach out to those in need, etc., and celebrate! If you are not a believer, give yourself the greatest gift of all, give your life to Him as Savior and Lord and receive eternal life.

And Christ is coming again!

It doesn’t matter what others do or how commercial they have made Christmas, if you are a born again believer you need to celebrate the birth of our Savior, Jesus Christ. The two great defining events in history are the birth of Christ and then His death and resurrection to save us from our sins.

Jesus is the reason for Christmas and He is THE GIFT. So if you are a believer, decorate,

MaryEllen Olson Amery, Wis.

Open your heart to Jesus To the Editor, The winter has been slow to come this year and for some who have lived a full life their winter is now. For some the end will be a blessing for others the end will not be a happy time. Jesus came to make our lives a joyful time.

Jesus came to save mankind. The bible tells us what he will do for us. It also tells us he will not push himself on us. When we are ready we ask Jesus to be our savior and to come into our hearts. We can be on earth to live a godly life and to help our fellow man or we can

Ray Klopotek Amery, Wis.

Reagans’s story hit home To the Editor, I would just like to say how incredibly touched I was by the article on Reagan Thompson and her Comfort 4 Kids mission. As a preemie parent myself, seeing the generosity of this young girl actually brought tears to my eyes. Much like Reagan my daughter Morgan was born three months early and spent those three months in the NICU at Children’s Hospital -St. Paul. She is now a sweet vivacious two and half year old that brings us so much joy.

Prematurity awareness is an issue that doesn’t always get the attention that it deserves, and people often don’t realize the struggles that these little fighters and their families go through. Reagan is truly a special girl for having such a big heart to try to bring a little bit of joy to these families during such troubled and uncertain times.

I know that I will most definitely be donating some stuffed animals to the cause and I will be encouraging everyone that I know to do the same.

Amy Sheets Amery, Wis.

lead a life of control or we can lead a life being controlled by material possessions.

In 1975 I went to a Lutheran conference with Shirley & Gary and asked Jesus to come into my heart. It has been a long journey and you have all been my witnesses. I have fallen many times but He has always been there to pick me up. When you ask Jesus to become your savior and come into your heart you have to make room for Him. Then Jesus becomes your advocate so when you pray to the Father he hears your prayers

because you have prayed in Jesus name. It will be our words and our deeds that will be written in the book of life. It’s not easy but there is no other way. Jesus is the way the truth and the light.

Merry Christmas, Ted Zinn Amery, Wis.

LETTER GUIDELINES Letters to the Editor are published with priority given to letters that are concise (400 words or less) and exclusive to our newspaper, from readers in our general distribution area.

All letters are subject to editing for grammar and clarity and must contain the undersigned’s full name and their address and daytime telephone number for verification. (Addresses and phone numbers will not be printed.) Letter writers must live, work or have another connection to The Amery Free Press’ coverage area.

To the Editor: My great grandparents on both sides came to America to seek freedom for their families and make a better life for themselves and their families. They worked very hard to do so. America is a mix of many different nationalities that have come together to make the United States the great nation it is, and also a great place to work and live.

Yes, everyone has a different idea on how to make this country better, and that is what has made this country great. We have the election process to elect our representatives in government. Keep in mind that some Nations don’t have that privilege. Sometimes some of us don’t get the person into office that we favored, but still try to work together with one goal in mind, to help keep this country the greatest place in the world to work and live.

Due to space limitations, letters that don’t address local issues are not guaranteed publication.

Staff reserves the right to refrain from printing a letter.

Anonymous letters will not be printed.

Letters may be mailed to: Amery Free Press P.O. Box 424 Amery, WI 54001 Letters may be FAXed to 715-268-5300 Letters may be emailed to: editor@theameryfreepress.com no later than 12 p.m. Monday the week of

publication.

The Free Press welcomes readers’ suggestions for news stories as well as their comments on stories that have been printed. News releases should be typed and include appropriate contact information.

They will be printed as space permits in the first issue possible. There are no guarantees that news releases will run.

Early deadlines Due to the Christmas and New Years holidays, the deadline for advertising and news copy for the next two editions will be Thursday at 4 p.m.

Deadline for the Dec. 27 edition is Thursday, Dec. 22 at 4 p.m.

Deadline for the Jan. 3 edition is Thursday, Dec. 29 at 4 p.m.

Submit your ‘Letters to the Editor’

by Monday at noon Email letters to editor@theameryfreepress.com Mail to P.O. Box 424 Amery, WI 54001

6A AMERY FREE PRESS

RECORDS

www.theameryfreepress.com

DECEMBER 20, 2016

One dead after Barron County woman held at gunpoint Barron County authorities continue their investigation into an incident involving a woman who was held at gunpoint Thursday.

On Thursday, December 15 at 4:43pm the Barron County Sheriff’s Department received a complaint from a female stating she was held against her will by her husband for several hours the previous night. The female stated her husband had a handgun and held her against her will in a motor home they were staying in outside of Camer-

on.

Deputies responded to 2165 Hwy 8, east of Cameron to make contact with the suspect, James Bacon, 49 of this address. James informed the officers, by phone, that he had a handgun and was not going to go to jail. He also made threats to blow up the motor home.

The Barron County Emergency Response Team was called and with the assistance of the Cameron and Chetek Police Departments Hwy 8 was closed.

Negotiators with the Emergency

Amery Police Report 12/09/2016 – 12/15/2016 12/09/16, 06:06AM, Disturbance 12/09/16, 02:52PM, Motor vehicle accident 12/09/16, 07:17PM, Animal control call 12/10/16, 01:40AM, Traffic stop, turned into arrest for warrant 12/10/16, 09:27AM, Business alarm 12/10/16, 08:09PM, Vehicle lockout 12/10/16, 08:48PM, Disturbance 12/10/16, 09:34PM, Welfare check 12/11/16, 03:32PM, Gas drive off 12/11/16, 05:00PM, Assist citizen 12/11/16, 06:27PM, Gas drive off 12/11/16, 11:46PM, Business alarm 12/12/16, 06:14AM, Motor vehicle accident 12/12/16, 07:30AM, Vehicle lockout 12/12/16, 08:00AM, Officers do school presentation on Sexual Harassment for students 12/12/16, 03:13PM, Vehicle lockout 12/12/16, 03:48PM, Mental health call 12/12/16, 08:20PM, Business alarm

12/13/16, 09:48AM, Juvenile call 12/13/16, 10:56AM, Welfare check 12/13/16, 12:00PM, Juvenile call 12/13/16, 04:13PM, Burglary report 12/13/16, 04:46PM, Mental health call 12/14/16, 02:30AM, Suspicious activity 12/14/16, 11:32AM, Assist other agency 12/14/16, 06:14PM, Assist citizen 12/14/16, 06:43PM, Noise complaint 12/14/16, 08:01PM, Residential alarm 12/14/16, 09:38PM, Traffic complaint 12/14/16, 10:35PM, Assist other agency motor vehicle accident 12/15/16, 8:47AM, Assist citizen 12/15/16, 01:40PM, Residential alarm 12/15/16, 03:41PM, Arrest on outstanding warrant Arrests: 12/10/16, Jesus F. Cordova, 34 of Amery, Trempealeau County Warrant 12/15/16, Derek J. Gustafson, 30 of Amery, Warrant Probation Violation.

Response Team attempted for over an hour to get Mr. Bacon to exit the trailer and he continued to make threats to harm officers and blow up the motor home.

The Barron County Armored vehicle did approach the trailer to deploy gas into the motor home to get Mr. Bacon to exit it. As the first round of gas was shot into the motor home, 3 gunshots came from inside the trailer. None of these rounds struck any deputy.

Negotiations continued with no

response and more gas was deployed. The entry team was deployed and located Mr. Bacon deceased in the motor home with what appears to be a self inflicted gunshot wound.

No shots were fired by deputies and all the deputies went home safe.

This case remains under investigation by the Barron County Sheriff’s Department.

Reports in Support of Probable Cause Polk County Sheriff’s Department Monday, December 19, 2016 Philip W. Bowe, 35, Frederic was arrested on December 14 for domestic battery criminal damage to property and disorderly conduct.

Charles R. Bentley, 25, Balsam Lake was arrested on December 14 for disorderly conduct, criminal damage to property and probation hold.

Julie K. Clayton, 57, Luck was arrested on December 14 for bail jumping.

James D. Fulliam, 55, St. Paul was arrested on December 15 for possession of meth, possession of drug paraphernalia and possession of THC. Derek J. Gustafson, 30, Amery was arrested on December 15 for probation hold warrant.

Shanon M. Peck, 35, Amery was arrested on December 16 for probation hold.

Lisa A. Allen, 49, Danbury was arrested on December 16 for probation hold.

Leroy T. Parmeter, 33, Centuria was arrested on December 14 for probation hold.

James D. Brown, 32, Almena was arrested on December 14 for probation hold.

Timothy D. Peterson, 46, Centuria was arrested on December 15 for OWI 3, OAR, and an out-of-county warrant.

Rebecca A. Lynch, 36, Amery was arrested on December 17 for OWI 3, prohibited BAC (3rd), and OAR (OWI related).

Amery and Clear Lake Municipal Court Amery Area Municipal Court was held Wednesday, Dec. 14. The following were heard: City of Amery— Tyler A. Asplund, 21, Maplewood, MN, exceeding speed zones (1-10 mph), $98.80.

17 year old, Amery, truancy, $92.50.

Keeley G. Brown, 17, Amery, speeding on city highway (16-19 mph), $124.

Byrnes Law Office, Amery, non-registration of auto, $98.80.

Bradley J. Easland, 24, Amery, operate motor vehicle without insurance, $124.

Breanna M. Ellevold, 26, Star Prairie, speeding on city highway (11-15 mph), $98.80.

Donald L. Kirchoff, 44, Amery, oper-

ate motor vehicle without proof of insurance, $10.

Kathleen A. Kohler, 67, Amery, exceeding speed zones (1-10 mph), $98.80.

Elaine M. Meyer, 73, Amery, improper passing of stopped bus, $124.

Blake S. Reber, 30, Dresser, exceeding speed zones (11-15 mph), $98.80; vehicle operator fail to wear seat belt, $10.

Hayden L. Russell, 18, Amery, operate motor vehicle without proof of insurance, $10.

Kimberly J. Spaeth, 16, Emerald, exceeding speed zones (1-10 mph0, $98.

Chad M. Vaudrin, 38, Clear Lake, operate without valid license, $124; improper passing of stopped bus, $124.

Tracy S. Zmuda, 49, Amery, operate

motor vehicle without insurance, $124; non-registration of auto, $98.80.

Village of Clear Lake— Quinn R. Arro, 36, Floodwood, MN, exceeding speed zones (16-19 mph), $124.

Michel D. Comer, 27, Minneapolis, MN, exceeding speed zones (25-29 mph), $174.40; operate motor vehicle without insurance, $124; operate without valid license, $124.

Jessica K. Hayes, 33, Minneapolis, MN, exceeding speed zones (11-15 mph), $98.80.

Tyrell J. Hoisington, 18, Spring Valley, exceeding speed zones (30-34 mph), $218.50.

Michaela M. Humphrey, 22, Fridley, MN, exceeding speed zones (20-24

mph), $149.20.

Katheryn L. Kust, 48, Green Bay, exceeding speed zones (16-19 mph), $124.

Autumn B. Ninke, 17, Deer Park, non-registration of other vehicle, $98.80; operate motor vbehicle without insurance, $124.

Sinh N. Thai, 63, Oakdale, MN, exceeding speed zones (20-24 mph), $149.20.

Plea of Not Guilty entered by: James W. Lindner, Amery, disorderly conduct with motor vehicle.

Molly B. Blaser, Glenwood City, speeding.

Divorces Filed Earlene M. Klatt, 80, Amery and Marlin S. Klatt, 79, Clayton filed for divorce on November 25, 2016.

Aaron R. Peters, 32, Clear Lake and Carrie A. Peters, 29, Sherburn, Minn. filed for divorce on November 29, 2016.

Kristen M. Buda, 26, Amery and Nicholas W. Buda, 30, Amery filed for divorce on November 30, 2016.

Keri L. LaFavor, 46, Baldwin and Kerry C. LaFavor, 47, Baldwin filed for divorce on December 1.

Robert M. Gunther, 40, Somerset and Jaclyn D. Gunther, 38 filed for divorce on December 2, 2016.

Michelle R. David, 45, Roberts and David J. David, 49, Coates, Minn. filed for divorce on December 2, 2016.

Angela G. Goodwin, 42, New Richmod and Byron D. Goodwin, 41, St. Paul, Minn. filed for divorce on December 5, 2016.

Andrea L. Schiks, 32, River Falls and Justin M. Schiks, 34, Hudson filed for divorce on December 5, 2016.

David D. Baer, 46, Washburn and Emily B. Baer, 40, Woodville filed for divorce on December 5, 2016.

Mary M. Martell, 51, Milltown and Leo S. Martell Sr., 61, Milltown filed for divorce on December 6, 2016.

Kelly J. Larson, 35, Amery and James R. Larson, 47, Amery filed for divorce on December 6, 2016.

Emilie L. Engesether, 33, Hammond and Shay T. Engesether, 32, Roberts filed for divorce on December 8, 2016.

Marle E. Margl, 61, Somerset and

Kenneth W. Margl, 61, Somerset filed for divorce on December 9, 2016.

Cheryl A. Kirk, 59, Clayton and Jerry J. Kirk, Clayton filed for divorce on December 12, 2016.

Adam J. Austin-White, 30, St. Croix Falls and Kacy J. Austin-White, 35, Osceola filed for divorce on December 12, 2016.

Amy M. Solberg, 48, Amery and Eric W. Solberg, 48, Clear Lake filed for divorce on December 13, 2016.

YESTERDAY’S NEWS

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

105 Years Ago December 21, 1911

7A

train, too. from Steven.

A Shookumche, editor, full of cider, got an auction bill and a marriage mixed and it read: “Wm. Smith, only son of Josiah Smith, was disposed of at a public auction, in the presence of 70 guests, including two mules and 12 head of cattle.

Rev. Jackson tied the nuptial knot, averaging 1250 pounds on the hoof. The home of the bride was tastefully decorated with one sulky rake, food grinder and a set of double harness nearly new.”

Dear Santa, I would like you to bring me a doll and if you don’t have a doll I want to have a sewing machine.

From Powlo Jo.

The firemen plan their big New Year’s Eve ball for Burman’s Hall.

Dear Santa, I want some records for Christmas. We have a new record player to play them on.

Leslie Olson, Amery

Dear Santa, I am 7 years old.

I would like a Barbie doll and each a sketch and I would like a Santa doll. My little brother would like a truck with some blocks in it.

Kaylene Bver

December 20 it was 40 above, Dec. 19, 41 above, Dec. 18, 39 above, and Dec. 17, 40 above.

95 Years Ago December 22, 1921 Spread Christmas Cheer There are many, many people who are not looking forward to Christmas with any marked degree of happiness.

There are those in our city who have been touched by the hand of adversity and unless some of us get busy and do a few things to help Santa out, there may be several aching hearts on Christmas Day. Of all days, the thought of a child unhappy on Christmas Day is a heartbreaking thought, and it must not occur in our community. For after all, the greatest happiness comes through making others happy. When we can bring joy to others then our own hearts will be filled with joy.

Let’s put all selfish thoughts aside and do our level best to bring happiness to others.

Another Ice House An ice famine is not likely to occur in this city next season according to indications.

Nick Zimmer is erecting an icehouse 30x80 ft. on the shore of South Twin Lake and will begin his ice harvesting early in the year.

Leslie Thompson is building an addition to the icehouse on North Twin Lake.

90 Years Ago December 23, 1926 Rural Carrier has Runaway Wm. Shafer, carrier on route three had a runaway while making his regular trip last Friday. A pair of colts that had not become steadfast caused the trouble.

Aside from scattering things around a bit, no damage was done.

Come to the Community Christmas Tree Every child in this city and tributary to this city should be brought to the community Christmas tree to see Santa Claus, at 7:00 p.m. Christmas Eve. There will be a present for everyone, old and young, rich and poor – Come.

Amery Hotel Restaurant Picture above is the Amery Hotel restaurant back in 1912, which was located on the second floor of the hotel. It looks like they were all decked out for the holidays and ready for business.

75 Years Ago December 18, 1941 Skating Rink By the time we go to press there may have been enough volunteers to shovel snow off the skating rink Wednesday night.

The skating rink this year promises to be one of the finest in the county. The city council is helping out generously towards repairs, etc., and maintenance, but the snow shoveling job, now and after each blizzard, will have to be done by volunteer labor.

Boy Scouts are being asked to help. How about some of you strong men who like to skate?

The rink is base-boarded all around, Yesterday’s and a new hydrant has News been installed Diane Stangl back of the Fay Auto Co. to make for easier flooding of the rink.

Wandroos and Deronda have always had fine rinks each winter and the boys really “go to town” when its time to work on them.

Amery Boys Answering Calls to Service More Amery boys have left or are leaving to answer their country’s call for men to wage a victorious war against the Axis powers.

Ray Smiley left this week and Sammy Lien, is expected to be gone this week, to join U.S. naval forces. Lien’s call was held up because his parents, Mr. and Mrs. Sam Lien had to make out papers giving the necessary parents’ consent. Smiley is over 21 and does not need such permission.

Pete Gehrman and Donald Dosch were expected to be gone this week, both to join the Army Air Corps. Another recruit who is thinking of enlisting is Earl (Buss) Brown, son

of Mrs. Chet Brown.

Servicemen Battling the Japanese Contrary to rumors, the Tony Muccicciario family east of town, have had no word from their son Jack who is helping to battle the Japanese on the island of Guam. The Japs may have captured Guam but the U.S. Navy has not confirmed this. Jack is in the U.S. Marines.

65 Years Ago December 20, 1951 It Has Definitely Arrived Absolutely no one residing in this area has any doubts any more whether or not winter is here. From the below zero treatment the past several days, there can be little question about this fact any more.

The early December thaw caught a severe cold last Thursday, Dec. 13. When temperatures fell to an official 9 below according to I. M. Lindgren of the Wisconsin Hydro Electric Company. From that sordid beginning temperatures went from bad to worse.

From Friday, Dec. 14, at 5 p.m. until noon Sunday, Dec. 16, they continued to hover below the zero mark. Low Saturday was 14 below with Sunday finding the temperature down to -15.

Monday a minor heat wave hit this section with the low being only 6 below. Continuing in this happy trend, Tuesday found only -1 but Wednesday found another “cold shoulder” being turned by the weatherman when it fell to 11 below.

Snow coverage, exclusive of the blanket being deposited as this is being written, measured about two inches with frost depth set at approximately eight inches.

With the temperature changes, some of the river and lakeshore residents are being frightened, by the loudly cracking ice.

How Close?

Since

recording

rumors

concerning a car being driven into North Twin Lake last week, this reporter has found some facts, which throw an altogether different light on the subject.

In the first place, it didn’t happen “in the wee hours.”

Actually the car dunking took place about 6 p.m., when the parked car of Oscar Erickson started meandering down the hillside, across the yard of the I. S. Toftness home and into the brink.

Left to idle for a time, the car had other ideas and chose a clear course to the lakeshore.

It proceeded out about a carlength before the rear wheels broke the ice and halted the progress.

Letters for Santa…

Dear Santa, I am a little girl four years old. I have been quite good all year. Be sure to stop at my house Christmas Eve. I would like a baby with a bottle and a dollhouse and a little sewing machine. I have a new baby brother and would you please bring him a rattle.

We will leave you an orange to eat.

Thank you very much.

Connie Larson.

Dear Santa, I am a little boy, three years old. I have tried to be a good boy this year, so I hope you will stop and leave me some presents.

Can I please have a pounding set and hammer and a climbing tractor and a cowboy suit.

Please don’t forget our little brother. Can he have some toys, too?

Thank you very much.

Gary Larson

55 Years Ago December 14, 1961 Letters to Santa Dear Santa, How cold is it up there? How is your helpers. For Christmas I want a train and a tunnel with the train. I want a electric

Amery, Wis. December 9, 1961 Dear Santa, “I have been a pretty good boy and I hope you will bring me some nice gifts for Christmas. This is what I’d like. You can choose from them. I am eight years old.

1. A record player.

2. A bridge and turnpike set with a motor.

3. Electric football game.

4. Boat Transport.

5. Car Models.

6. Airplane models.

7. Fur line gloves.

8. Electric racecar set.

“Love, Bobby.”

40 Years Ago December 2, 1976 Vandals Hit Unity School Five juveniles have been turned over to county authorities following a window-breaking spree at the Milltown School on Sunday between 9 – 10 p.m.

About 40 windows in the building were broken. The vandals also wrote on the walls, overturned desks and stole a radio.

As a result of the broken windows several pipes inside the building froze.

Charged with the crime are a junior high school student, two Unity High School students, a Unity dropout and a Frederic High School student.

Suffers Critical Burns in Explosion.

Everett Berry, Milltown, is in critical condition at St. Paul Ramsey burn center following an explosion at his home this week.

According to Milltown Fire Chief Harvey Jensen, the victim had a fuel oil stove at the back portion of his house. He started to add what he thought was fuel oil only it turned out to be gasoline.

The force of the explosion blew Berry out of the house into the snow. As he rolled in the snow his neighbors cut his burning clothes from his body.

Mrs. Berry was treated at Ladd Memorial hospital, Osceola, for minor burns on both hands.

8A AMERY FREE PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2016 www.theameryfreepress.com

Three apply for Governor’s Polk County judicial appointment

BY JESSICA DE LA CRUZ EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

With the December 12 deadline for applications come and gone, we now know that Governor Scott Walker will approve and appoint one of three applicants. The posting was made on the Governor’s website after he announced his intentions to appoint a replacement for the now retired Polk County Judge Molly GaleWyrick earlier this month. Simultaneously, Walker also announced his intentions to appoint a replacement for Judge Kenneth Kutz in Burnett County.

The Polk County contenders, which will now be screen by Governor’s Judicial Selection Advisory Committee, are Dan Tolan of Luck, Dave Danielson of St. Croix Falls, and Stephen Sawyer of Steven’s Point.

Of the three, both Tolan and Danielson have expressed interest in being on the April 4 ballot, although Tolan and Malia Malone of Turtle Lake are currently the only Branch 1 candidates registered with the Wisconsin Elections Commission. Danielson would have until January 3 to complete the necessary paperwork, but says that if someone else were appointed he would make a decision at that time as to whether or not to run against the appointee.

The appointed candidate would automatically be on the primary ballot on February 21, should he choose to run.

The Governor has very few requirements for judicial candidates aside from residency within the county and having been licensed to practice law in the state for the past five years. Candi-

dates also cannot be over 70 years old.

Dave Danielson—St. Croix Falls, Wis. Dave Danielson is a lifelong resident of both Polk and Burnett counties, and has served as the St. Croix Falls Municipal Judge for over 16 years. He has been a Wisconsin licensed attorney since 1982, and also points to his experience as St. Croix Danielson Falls mayor from 1995 to 1998. Danielson earned his law degree from Marquette University in 1982, and since that time has run his own private law fi rm. Major casework includes representing suspended dairy farmers that resulted in a change to DATCP procedures, as well as Social Security Disability claims and various criminal defense cases throughout Polk and Burnett Counties.

Of the appointment, Danielson says, “I have enjoyed serving the residents of St. Croix Falls as judge for over sixteen years and look forward to be considered for the opportunity to use my judicial, legal and life experiences as a Polk County Circuit Court Judge should Governor Walker decide to appoint me and the residents of Polk County elect me in the upcoming Spring 2017 election.”

Daniel Tolan—Luck, Wis. Daniel Tolan, a lifelong resident of Luck, has worked in various capacities as a Polk County Assistant District Attorney (ADA) since 2009.

He earned his law degree from Hamline University in 1996, and has 19 years of legal experience cover both

CHRISTMAS: Angels deliver news of Savior’s birth FROM PAGE 1A

And, lo, the angel of the Lord came upon them, and the glory of the Lord shone round about them; and they were sore afraid.

And the angel said unto them, Fear not; for, behold, I bring you good tidings of great joy, which shall be to all people.

For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.

And this shall be a sign unto you; You shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, Iying in a manger.

And suddenly there was with the angel a multitude of the heavenly host praising God, and saying, Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace, good will toward men.

And it came to pass, as the angels were gone away from them in heaven, the shepherds said one to another, Let us now go even unto Beth-

lehem, and see this thing which is come to pass, which the Lord hath made known unto us.

And they came with haste, and found Mary, and Joseph, and the babe lying in a manger.

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child.

And all they that heard it wondered at those things which were told them by the shepherds.

But Mary kept all these things and pondered them in her heart.

And the shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things that they had heard and seen, as it was told unto them. ~~ -John 3:16 For God so loved the world that he gave his only begotten son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life.

criminal and civil law throughout northwest Wisconsin.

Shortly after admission to the bar, Tolan opened Tolan Legal Services in Luck, practicing family law, divorce and child custody, wills and probate, and real estate. He did private work for the Polk County public defender’s office representing people Tolan accused of crimes as well as subjects of mental and alcohol commitments, and has also served as a guardian ad litem in child custody actions, as well as guardianships and protective placements.

Through his ADA experience, Tolan says he has tried multiple bench and jury trials, participated in the appeals process, and successfully argued before the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

He adds, “I fi rst became interested in prosecution because I wanted to have an input in what happens in our community. I now want to have a role in the outcome of the legal matters in this county,” he said. “As a lifelong resident, I know and understand the values and concerns of the people of Polk County.”

Stephen Sawyer—Stevens Point, Wis. Steve Sawyer applied for both the Polk and Burnett appointment positions in hopes of relocating closer to the area to be near family in Stillwater.

Sawyer grew up in suburban Milwaukee (Fox Point), and has lived throughout the United States in his Naval career as a helicopter pilot and

legal officer. He earned his law degree from the University of Notre Dame and worked as a corporate finance attorney representing large firms in Milwaukee and Racine for five years. He says through his business and military connections, the events of September 11 prompted a change in his career focus, rediSawyer recting him back to a passion for criminal defense. Since that time he worked for a year and a half as an Assistant District Attorney in Milwaukee County, and then went out on his own to work in criminal defense, the past eleven years of which have been in Stevens Point.

“Having practiced in many different counties throughout the state, I’ve had an opportunity to see many example of the best and the worst in our justice system,” he says. “I really think I can make a contribution to making the system run the way it ought to run, and exercising the judgment I’ve developed throughout my life, not only as a lawyer, but also as a naval officer, and a human being.”

Should the Governor choose to appoint him, Sawyer says he is prepared to make the move almost immediately.

The Judicial Selection Advisory Committee will review the candidates and make a recommendation to Governor Walker for appointment. According to the Governor’s office, he hopes to have an appointment made in Polk County by the end of the year.

Amery’s ‘Farm Table’ among several restaurants featured this weekend on ‘Discover Wisconsin’ Madison, WISCONSIN – (December 13, 2016) – Eight unique dining destinations celebrating Wisconsin’s agricultural diversity will be featured in an upcoming episode of the nation’s longest-running tourism TV Show, Discover Wisconsin. “Destination Dining” airs December 24-25 and was produced in partnership with the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board (WMMB) and Discover Wisconsin.

The program airs Saturday, December 24 at 10 a.m. on Fox Sports Wisconsin. Local air times are viewable at discoverwisconsin.com/broadcast-guide.

“Destination Dining” may also be streamed online at discoverwisconsin.com.

“Wisconsin is well-known

for its award-winning cheese and beautiful scenery,” said Liz Fitzsimmons, director of local market communications for the Wisconsin Milk Marketing Board. “The destinations featured in this episode provide unique local food experiences designed to celebrate our state’s farmers and chefs while connecting people back to the land.

These family-friendly locations are serving up great food and fun for everyone.”

A handful of unique dining destinations in western Wisconsin are featured in Discover Wisconsin’s “Destination Dining” episode, including Farm Table in downtown Amery.

Jesse Spitzack, executive chef at Farm Table, discusses the

restaurant’s three-part business model and the importance of supporting local farmers.

“I am a huge fan of the farmto-table movement and I think Wisconsin is ahead of the curve when it comes to incorporating foods grown in our own backyards,” said Haberman. “Every farmer, chef and restauranteur we met while fi lming was passionate about using Wisconsin dairy products and farm-grown vegetables. Trust me—you’re going to want to put all eight of these dining destinations on your travel bucket list!”

Early deadlines for upcoming Amery Free Press editions Due to the Christmas and New Years holidays, the deadline for advertising and news copy for the next two editions will be

Thursday at 4 p.m.Deadline for the Dec. 27 edition is Thursday, Dec. 22 at 4 p.m.

Deadline for the Jan. 3 edition

is Thursday, Dec. 29 at 4 p.m.

Happy Holidays from everyone at The Amery Free Press!

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

9A

Warrior wrestling nipped by Osceola

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

ERIC PAULSON

Shawn Waalen won a 6-0 decision against Osceola.

After winning its first two matches of the night and jumping out to an 18-3 lead after five matches, Amery’s wrestling team found itself in a dramatic toe-to-toe battle with Middle Border Conference rival Osceola on Dec. 15, in a match that ended with the Warriors losing 36-37.

Shawn Waalen opened with a 6-0 decision over Diego Lowny (152 pounds) and Kody Dudgeon (160 pounds) followed with a 9-2 victory over Austin Fox. 182-pound Mason Goulet received a forfeit, and 195-pounder Carl Oman recorded a 58-second pin against Adam Reigel to give the Warriors their early lead.

But back-to-back Amery forfeits at 220 and 285 allowed Osceola to pull within range and Drew Willeman (106) pounds gave the Chieftains a 19-18 lead with a 14-3 major decision win over Andrew Prindle.

Another pair of Amery forfeits pushed the Osceola lead to 13 points.

The Warriors were able to reclaim six of those points as Mike Smith (126 pounds won by forfeit).

Noah Zinn (132 pounds put the Warriors in position to complete an exciting comeback when he pinned Zeke Lowney in 3:16. But Osceola’s Nick Abernathy (138 pounds) sealed the Warriors fate when he pinned Corey Grundner in 4:41.

Amery’s James Bailargeon finished the night with a 1:26 fall over Matthew Germain.

ERIC PAULSON

Kody Dudgeon won a 9-2 victory at 160 pounds.

ERIC PAULSON

Carl Oman recorded a pin in 58 seconds.

ERIC PAULSON

Noah Zinn recorded a pin in his match at 132 pounds.

10A AMERY FREE PRESS

SPORTS

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

Prescott topples Warriors

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

December 9 was another tough night for the Amery boys’ basketball team as it lost 47-61 to Prescott.

Connor McBrayer led the team in points, with 12, re-

LISA MCBRAYER

6’ Connor McBrayer vs 7’1” Owen Hamilton for Jumpball

This week’s sports Amery Boys Basketball

Dec. 29, 30 Clayton Tournament

Dec. 20 @ St. Croix Falls Dec. 22 @ Clear Lake

Clayton Girls Basketball

Amery Girls Basketball Dec. 20 vs. Glenwood City Dec. 22 @ Spooner

Amery Hockey Dec. 20 @ River Falls Dec. 22 vs. Highland Park

Clayton Boys Basketball Dec. 20 vs. Luck Dec. 22 @ Grantsburg

Dec. 20 vs. Luck Dec. 22 @ Grantsburg Dec. 29, 30 Clayton Tournament

Clear Lake Boys Basketball Dec. 20 @ Grantsburg Dec. 22 vs. Amery

Clear Lake Girls Basketball Dec. 20 vs. Bruce Dec. 22 @ Cumberland

bounds, with 7, and blocks, with 2. Seth Amundson tallied a team-best three steals and three assists, while adding nine points, three rebounds and a block.

Noah Rademaker pitched in eight points and Lane Christensen, seven. Mason Spaf-

ford and Zach Swenson each contributed three points, followed by Caleb Ladwig and Chris McLeod with two points apiece. Ryan McBrayer scored one point. Swenson also added two steals and six rebounds.

LISA MCBRAYER

#10 Seth Amundsen

Warriors knock off Grantsburg

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Amery’s Madelyn Granica scored 18 points to lead the Warriors’ girls’ basketball team (4-2) to a big, 56-48, win over Grantsburg (2-4) on Dec. 12. The standout sophomore also posted seven rebounds, three assists, three steals and two blocks in the contest.

Fellow sophomore Abby Schmidt also had a solid game with nine points, seven rebounds, three assists, two steals and one block. The duo

led a group of eight Warriors to record points.

Shawna Wiese tallied eight points and two steals. Cheyenne Edwards added seven points, three rebounds, two assists and two steals. Ashley VanSomeren contributed seven points and two steals.

Esmee Luchtenburg scored three points. Gabby Fredrick added two points and five rebounds. Dani Meyer finished with two points. Brianna Wundrow kicked in three rebounds.

LISA MCBRAYER

#3 Lane Christensen three point shot.

Wrestlers compete in Paul Bunyan Invitational

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Amery’s wrestling team recently competed in the Dec. 9-10 Paul Bunyan Invitational and finished 14th of 15 teams with 20.5 points.

Shawn Waalen, wrestling at 152 pounds, defeated Brainerd’s Max Boran by a 9-1 major decision.

James Baillargeon claimed a 13-8 victory over Aitkin’s Carter Endrizzi at 145 pounds.

Also participating were Andrew Prindle (106 pounds), Noah Zinn (132 pounds), Corey Grundner (138 pounds), Canyon Schwartz (160 pounds), Mason Goulet (170 pounds) and Carl Oman (182 pounds).

Team Scores

Foley 246.5, Frazee 180, Pierz Healy 146, Moorhead 141, Brainerd 109.5, Little Falls 101, Staples-Motely 100, Bemidji 99, Grand Rapids 89.5, Aitkin 76, Cloquet 62, Mound Westonka 52, Chisago Lakes 50, Amery 20.5, Minneapolis Southwest 0

SPORTS

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS

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11A

Youth Hockey Pee Wee A 12/17 vs Menomonie Amery Win 11-2 #11 Forrest Alton / #11 Forest Alton / #17 Daniel Koch/ Asst # 7 Kruse Yuhas #5 Justin Walter/ asst # 8 Maddy Johnson #12 Max Mike/ Asst # 5 Justin Walter, # 2 Stuart Hellie #5 Justin Walter/ Asst #2 Stuart Hellie #5 Justin Walter/ #5 Justin Walter/ Asst #18 Blu Anderson #8 Maddy Johnson/ #3 Fredrik Henningsgard #5 Justin Walter/ Asst #11 Forrest Alton, #2 Stuart Hellie #18 Blu Anderson/ Goalie #1 Avery Starzecki / 5 saves

12/17 vs. River Falls Amery Win 7-5 #11 Forest Alton/ Asst #8 Maddy Johnson, #5 Justin Walter #5 Justin Walter/ Asst #3 Fredrik Henningsgard #18 Blu Anderson/ #22 Danny Tylee/ Asst #18 Blu Anderson #11 Forrest Alton/ Asst #5 Justin Walter

# 5 Justin Walter/ Asst #11 Forrest Alton #5 Justin Walter/ Goalie: #1 Avery Starzecki 18 Saves

12/18 vs Stillwater Amery Win 5-4 #17 Daniel Koch/ Asst #3 Fredrik Henningsgard, #11 Forrest Alton #12 Max Mike/ Asst #5 Justin Walter #16 Gabby Matson/ Asst #2 Stuart Hellie, Fredrik Henningsgard #5 Justin Walter/ Asst #2 Stuart Hellie, #7 Kruse Yuhas #5 Justin Walter/ Asst #3 Fredrik Henningsgard Goalie #1 Avery Starzecki 18 Saves

GOOB COY

The Amery hockey team celebrates its second win of the season, a 4-3 victory.

Amery hockey withstands Blizzard comeback

12/18 vs New Richmond Amery Win 3-1 #22 Danny Tylee/ Asst #18 Blu Anderson, #5 Justin Walter #8 Maddy Johnson/ Asst #22 Danny Tylee, #18 Blu Anderson #2 Stuart Hellie/ Asst # 3 Fredrik Hnningsgard, #7 Kruse Yuhas Goalie #1 Avery Starzecki 15 Saves

SCC girls down Amery 42-28

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Amery’s girls’ basketball team was held under 30 points on Dec. 6 as the St. Croix Central Panthers handed the Warriors a 42-28 defeat. Neither team shot particularly well from the field, but SCC managed to outshoot Amery from every area of the court, notching five more free throws, four more 2-pointers and one more 3-pointer.

The Panthers also outrebounded Amery 35-34 and had three more steals than the Warriors, 10-7.

No Warriors reached double digits scoring, but Madelyn Granica did post 10 rebounds, 8 points, 2 steals and an assist. Abby Schmidt also had 8 points.

Gabby Fredrick notched eight rebounds and four points.

Also scoring for the Warriors were Brianna Wundrow (4), Alyssa Kohler (2) and Ashley VanSomeren (2).

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The cold didn’t get to Amery’s hockey team on Dec. 15 as it traveled to the Grantsburg Ice Arena and picked up its second win of the season with a 4-3 victory over the WSFLG Blizzard.

“It was an interesting night to play in Grantsburg… one of the coldest of the year in one of the coldest rinks in the state,” said Amery Coach Tim Henningsgard.

The Warriors got off to a fast start, building a 4-0 lead after Brett Forrest opened the scoring with an even strength goal 3:37 into the contest. Forrest was assisted by Jackson Henningsgard and Ryan Van Blaricom.

“We came out in the second and decided to work hard and have fun,” Coach Henningsgard

A much-needed victory was claimed by the Amery girls’ basketball team on Dec. 2 when it defeated Prescott in Middle Border Conference play, 55-38.

The win improved Amery to 3-1 on the season .

The Warriors shot a solid 45 percent from the field and weathered a seven 3-pointer night by the Cardinals by sinking 14 of 21 free throw attempts.

Amery outrebounded Prescott by a 3-to-2 ratio, but struggled with 20 turnovers.

Madelyn Granica had a double-dou-

of the most intense, individual shifts we have had all year,” Coach Henningsgard said. “That set the tone for the entire team in the third and led us to a win.”

The Blizzard aided Amery in its quest for its second win in two seasons as WSFLG was called for 10 penalties, amounting to 39 minutes in the box. Bowman was responsible for five of the Blizzard’s penalties including a 5-minute major penalty for board early in the first period and a 10-minute game misconduct penalty early in the third.

Amery goalkeeper Ethan Mork had another solid night in the net, collecting 32 saves for the win. Caleb Johnson saved 45 shots for the Blizzard.

Amery 1 3 0 – 4 WSFLG 0 2 1 - 3

Somerset ices Warriors

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The Somerset Spartans showed Amery’s hockey team why they are expected to be contenders for the Middle Border Conference title this season as they handed the Warriors a 4-0 defeat on Dec. 13 at the Amery Ice Arena.

“Somerset is an excellent team,” said Amery coach Tim

Warriors top Prescott

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

said. “Doing these two things we scored three quick goals. ... Good thing too....we needed all of them to hang on in the end.”

Amery even strength goals by Parker Griffin and Forrest in the first 4-and-a-half minutes of the period, Jackson Henningsgard notched Amery’s final goal on a power play at the 7:29 mark of the second period.

A little over 2 minutes later, the Blizzard started their comeback with a power play goal by Austin Bownman. At 11:48, Jared Lee added an even strength goal, and Andrew Ruiz completed the scoring nearly 10 minutes into the third period with another even strength goal.

Bauer Panek finished with one assist. Forrest’s second goal was unassisted.

“In the first few minutes of the third, Grady Martin had one

ble night with 18 points and 14 rebounds. She also led the team in steals (four) and blocks (one) while dishing out three assists.

Abby Schmidt also had a strong offensive night, scoring 15 points. Cheyenne Edwards distributed a team-best four assists and Ashley VanSomeren had one block.

Also scoring for the Warriors were Brianna Wundrow (five points), Alyssa Koehler (four points), Gabby Fredrick (four points), Shawna Wiese (three points), Esmee Luchtenburg (two points), Dani Meyer (two points) and VanSomeren (two points).

Henningsgard. “They will battle New Richmond and Baldwin for the conference title once again this season.”

While Somerset spent twice as much time in the penalty box as Amery did – at 16 minutes – it did not harm the Spartans’ ability to dominate the game as they outshot the Warriors, 52-12.

Amery goalkeeper Ethan Mork tallied 52 saves while Somerset

goalie Adam Larson saved all 12 shots he faced.

“Ethan Mork was once again outstanding in the nets,” Henningsgard said. “With the solid goaltending we are getting, I am thinking that we will beat one of the upper-tiered conference teams this season.”

Somerset 1 2 1 – 4 Amery 0 0 0 - 0

Sophomore duo guides Warriors past Ellsworth

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Amery sophomores Madelyn Granica and Abby Schmidt combined to score 39 points as the Warrior girls’ basketball hit its stride on Dec. 15.

The Warriors blasted Ellsworth by a score of 55-37, while shooting 40 percent from the field.

Granica led the squad with 12 points, nine rebounds and two blocked shots. Schmidt finished with

16 points and six rebounds.

Also contributing on the scoreboard were Brianna Wundrow (four points), Ashley VanSomeren (four points), Shawna Wiese (three points), Alyssa Koehler (two points), Kallie Wiesenbeck (two points) and Cheyenne Edwards (one point). Edwards also contributed seven rebounds and two assists. Wiese finished with three rebounds and two steals. Dani Meyer added two rebounds, two assists and two steals.

12A AMERY FREE PRESS

SPORTS

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

Amery boys open with a win

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Amery’s boys’ basketball team squeaked out a 47-42 victory over Somerset on Nov. 30 to open its 2016-17 season on a high note.

Seth Amundson uncorded a 17-point effort that included 2-for-3 shooting from 3-point range and contributed five rebounds. Connor McBrayer did his work inside to tally 13 points, two steals and a block.

Zach Swenson crashed the boards, collecting a team best eight rebounds while adding seven points.

Lane Christensen dished out four assists while tallying six rebounds, two steals and three points.

Mason Spafford scored five points and had four rebounds. Noah Rademaker contributed two points and two steals.

LISA MCBRAYER

#10 Seth Amundsen’s free throws secure the win LISA MCBRAYER

#3 Lane Christensen

LISA MCBRAYER

#4 Connor McBrayer makes a layup.

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With online and in-clinic options, we’re here to keep you healthy all year long.

Visit amerymedicalcenter.org to find care near you.

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Mental illnesses are common, with 1 in 4 people diagnosed at some point. Yet those with them often feel like an outcast. Let’s talk more, undo the silence, and make it ok.

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SPORTS

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS

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13A

Warrior boys fall to Barron

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Amery’s boys’ basketball team fell, 56-65, to Barron on Dec. 1. The Warriors shot a solid 44 percent from 2-point range, but was just 7-for-34 from beyond the 3-point arc.

Connor McBrayer led the team in scoring with 15 points and was just one rebound shy of a double-double with nine.

Zach Swenson added 13 points, six rebounds and two blocks. Seth Amundson was a beast on the boards, hauling in a team-high 13 rebounds and also scored six points.

Also scoring for the Warriors were Mason Spafford (9), Lane Christensen (8), and Noah Rademaker (5). Christenson also tallied a team-best three steals.

LISA MCBRAYER

#35 Zach Swenson leads a group of defenders.

LISA MCBRAYER

#4 Connor McBrayer block

LISA MCBRAYER

#3 Lane Christensen defends.

14A AMERY FREE PRESS

SPIRITUAL

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

AREA CHURCHES AMERY FREE LUTHERAN, 1 mile west of golf course on CTH F, Eric Christenson, pastor www.ameryflc.org Saturday, Dec. 24: 4 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 10:15 a.m. Christmas Day Service.

Every Sunday: 9 a.m. Sunday school for ages 3 to 103; 10:15 a.m. Worship Service.

Every Wednesday: 7 p.m Youth Group.

Several small groups meet throughout the week. Call the church office for details 715-268-9218 APPLE RIVER COMMUNITY, 942 Hwy. 8, Amery Justin Hosking, pastor Sunday: 10:15 a.m. Coffee & Fellowship; 10:30 a.m. Worship/Children’s church.

Wednesday: 10:15 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 5:30 p.m. Kids One-Way Club.

Saturday: 6 p.m. Christmas Eve service.

BALSAM LUTHERAN, 1115 Mains Crossing, Amery Wednesday, Dec. 21: 9 a.m. Bible Study; 6 p.m. Confirmation Christmas party.

Saturday, Dec. 24: 2 p.m. “Christmas in the Barn” at Strodthoff-Kopp farm; 3:30 p.m. Dinner served; 5 p.m. Candlelight Service; 9 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at Elim.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 10:15 a.m. Christmas Day Carols.

Tuesday, Dec. 27: 8:30 a.m. Quilting at Elim.

CENTERPOINT, 740 Maple Drive, St. Croix Falls (High school) Dick Enerson, pastor Sunday: 10-11:15 a.m. 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, St. Croix Falls Jack Philips, evangelist Sunday: 9:30 a.m. Bible Study; 10:45 a.m. Worship.

Wednesday: 7 p.m. Bible Study and Devotions.

CLEAR LAKE UNITED METHODIST, John Hazen, pastor Sunday: 11 a.m. Worship.

Wednesday: 5:30 p.m. Meal for all; 6 p.m. Church school.

CONGREGATIONAL, 201 N. Harriman Ave., Amery Barry Schaefer, pastor Wednesday, Dec. 21: 11:30 a.m. Family Table Meal; 3:30 p.m. Homework & Hangout/Confirmation Class Make-up; 6 p.m. Family Dinner; 6:30 p.m. Youth Group Movie; 7 p.m.

Choir Rehearsal.

Thursday, Dec. 22: 8 a.m. Pastoral Leaders; 9:30 a.m. Senior Dining; 5:30 p.m. Women’s Bible Study.

Friday, Dec. 23: Senior Dining closed.

Saturday, Dec. 24: 2 p.m. Barn Service; 4:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Family Service; 9:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 10 a.m. Worship.

DEER PARK UNITED METHODIST, John Hazen, pastor Sunday: 9:45 a.m. Worship.

DERONDA LUTHERAN, 1239 65th Ave., Amery Lori Peper, pastor 715-268-9577 Thursday, Dec. 22: 9 a.m. Quilting.

Saturday, Dec. 24: 4:30 p.m. Combined Christmas Eve Worship at Deronda.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 9:30 a.m. Combined Christmas Day Worship at Trinity.

See our website for up-to-date scheduling www.deronda church.net EAST BALSAM BAPTIST, 1816 108th St./CTH I, Balsam Lake, Gabriel Brennan, pastor www.eastbalsam.org 715-857-5411 Sunday: 9 a.m. Worship service; 10:30 a.m. Sunday school.

Tuesday: Women’s Ministry; 9 a.m. Bible Study.

EAST IMMANUEL LUTHERAN, south of Amery on Hwy. 46 then west on 20th Ave., Kathy Pennington, pastor Saturday, Dec. 24: 4:30 p.m. Candlelight Service with Holy Communion.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 10:30 a.m. Christmas Lessons and Carols.

EAST LINCOLN ALLIANCE, 735 70th Ave., Amery 715-268-2350 www.eastlincolnalliance.com Eric Danielson and Randy Schussman, pastors Sunday: 8:45 a.m. Prayer Meeting; 9 a.m. Coffee and Fellowship; 9:30 a.m. 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 p.m. every Wednesday.

EL SALEM BAPTIST/TWIN FALLS CHRISTIAN CENTER, Dresser, Darryl R. Olson, pastor Sunday 9:30 a.m. Sunday school; 10:35 a.m. Worship; 6 p.m. Sunday evening.

Wednesday: 7 p.m. Bible Study.

ELIM LUTHERAN, Range Sunday: 8:30 a.m. Worship.

Holy Communion 1st and 3rd Sundays.

FAITH LUTHERAN (ELCA), 301 1st Ave. East, Balsam Lake , Diane Norstad, pastor Sunday: 9:30 a.m. Sunday worship; 10:40 a.m. Sunday school.

Wednesday evening Confirmation classes.

FAITH LUTHERAN (ELCA), 134 Prentice St. S, Clayton Margaret Grant, pastor Sunday: 9 a.m. Sunday school; 9:45 a.m. Worship; 10:45 a.m. Fellowship.

Men’s Bible Study 2nd Sunday 6 p.m.

Mission Quilting Tuesdays 9 a.m.

FIRST BAPTIST, 131 Broadway St., Amery Nick Buda, lead pastor churchoffice@fbcamery.org Sunday: One service 9-10:15 a.m. Nursery is available for ages 0-3; 10:30-11:30 a.m. All Ages Sunday School (nursery available for ages 0-3).

Monday: 1:30-2:30 Moms in Prayer Group (until end of school year).

Saturday: 7-8 a.m. Men’s Bible Study at Ida Mae’s.

FIRST LUTHERAN, 240 Elm St., Amery Tim Bjorge, pastor Wednesday, Dec. 21: 5:15 p.m. Supper; 6 p.m. Friends in Faith; 6 p.m. Confirmation Mentor/Caroling; 7 p.m. Christmas Piano Concert.

Thursday, Dec. 22: 8 a.m. Bible Study at Ida Mae’s; 8:30 a.m. Quilters; 7 p.m. Al Anon.

Saturday, Dec. 24: 3, 4:30 and 9 p.m. Christmas Eve Worship.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 9 a.m. Music & Treats; 9:30 a.m. Worship; Casual: Kids in PJs; No Sunday school.

Monday, Dec. 26: Office closed.

Call Bette at the Amery Free Press 715-268-8101 with corrections or additions to the church listings belmer@theameryfreepress.com

FIRST LUTHERAN (LCMC), 811 South Ave. W, Clear Lake www.firstluthclearlake.com Bryan S. Anderson, pastor Wednesday, Dec. 21: 6:15 p.m. 7th and 8th grade Confirmation; 7:30 p.m. 9th Grade Confirmation.

Saturday, Dec. 24: 4 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service with Holy Communion.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 10 a.m. Christmas Day Service with Holy Communion; No contemporary worship, choir practice or Sunday school.

Tuesday, Dec. 27: No Quilting; 1 p.m. Prayer Shawl meeting.

FIRST PRESYTERIAN, 719 Nevada St., St. Croix Falls Barbara Anne Keely, pastor Sunday: 10:15 a.m. Coffee and Fellowship; 11 a.m. Worship.

FOREST UNITED METHODIST, John Hazen, pastor Sunday: 8:30 a.m. Worship.

FULL GOSPEL LIGHTHOUSE, Graytown Merlin Burton, pastor Sunday: 10:30 a.m. Sunday school; 11 a.m. Worship.

GEORGETOWN LUTHERAN-ELCA, 877 190th Ave. Co. Rd. G, Balsam Lake (Fox Creek) 715-857-5580 serving@georgetownlutheran.net Interim Pastor Paul Settergren Sunday: 9:15 a.m. Sunday school; 10:30 a.m. Worship; Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday.

GRACE LUTHERAN - WELS, 460 4th St., Clear Lake, 715-263-2164 Ellery W. Groth, pastor (Saturday, Dec. 24, Christmas Eve Service 5:30 p.m.)

Sunday service 8:30 a.m.

Bible Class Thursday morning 10 a.m. and 5 p.m. Thursday evening.

Ladies Aid 2nd Thursday of month 2:30 p.m.

HOLY TRINITY ORTHODOX, 511 1st St., Clayton, 715-948-2493 htoc@amerytel.net Chris Wojcik, pastor Sundays: 9:30 a.m. Divine Liturgy.

HOLY TRINITY UNITED METHODIST, 1606 165th Ave., Centuria, on CTH I between Balsam Lake and Centuria Freddie Kirk, pastor Sunday: 8:30 a.m. Worship.

IMMANUEL EV. LUTHERAN (LCMS), 124 E. Church St., Clayton ImmLCLCMS@centurytel.net 715-541-2955 Gregory Becker, pastor Sunday: 9 a.m. Divine Worship.

Wednesday: 6:30 p.m. Family Christian Education.

Writing Your Own Obituary “We remember before our God and Father your work produced by faith, your labor prompted by love, and your endurance inspired by hope in our Lord Jesus Christ.”

—1 Thessalonians 1: 3 NIV

W

hile writing your own obituary might seem morbid, the opposite is actually the case. Writing your obituary can focus the mind on what is important in your life and help you redirect your energies if you aren’t on the right path. Obituaries these days tend to be a bit more personal than in the past. People may confess that they struggled with addiction or other serious problems, and they may share opinions or express words of wisdom from the deathbed. Thinking about and writing your own obituary will force you to be clearer about what is important to you. So consider writing yours. Don’t just include the dry biographical facts, but be sure to write about your life’s work and what it meant to you. You may think that your life’s work is trivial or humble, but did it give you the opportunity to help and serve others? And what did you feel passionately about outside of work, and why?

Were you devoted to your family and friends, and if so, how? And how, in the final analysis, do you want to be remembered? These are questions that are too important to be left to the end of life and the sooner we think about them, the more likely we are to have an obituary that tells a life story worth reading about. – Christopher Simon

These weekly church messages are contributed by the following:

Freedom Valu Center

We Want To Be Your Total Convenience Store 715-268-8957 237 Keller Ave., Amery

AmTec

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

Carlson Highland & Co., L.L.P. CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS 301 Keller Ave. S., Amery 715-268-7999

Amery Free Press Your Comunity Newspaper for over 120 years 215 S. Keller Ave., Amery Phone 715-268-8101

DECEMBER 20, 2016

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AREA CHURCHES CONTINUED IMMANUEL LUTHERAN, 65th Ave., rural Clayton Margaret Grant, pastor Immanuel: 8:30 a.m. Worship.

LITTLE FALLS LUTHERAN, 1272 44th Ave., Amery Lori Peper, pastor 715-268-9577 Saturday, Dec. 24: 4:30 p.m. Combined Christmas Eve Worship at Deronda.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 9:30 a.m. Combined Christmas Day Worship at Trinity.

See our website for up-to-date scheduling www.little fallschurch.net LIVING WORD CHAPEL, Hwy 64 at Forest Randy Dean, pastor Sunday: 8:45-9:45 a.m. Sunday school; 10 am. Main service.

Wednesday: 7:30 pm. Adults and Teen Ministry.

MENNONITE CHURCH, 1681 6 1/2 St., Co. Hwy. P North, Almena, 715-357-3321 Sunday: 10 a.m. Sunday school, all ages; 10:45 a.m. Sunday worship service; 7:45 p.m. Sunday evening service.

MOE LUTHERAN (ELCA), 451 30th St., Clear Lake Sunday: 10 a.m. Fellowship; 11 a.m. Worship; Potluck lunch 2nd Sunday.

Men’s Bible Study 2nd Sunday 6 p.m.

Women’s Bible Study 2nd Thursday 1:30 p.m.

NEW LIFE COMMUNITY, Amery Craig Jorgenson, pastor Sunday: 10 a.m. Worship.

Tuesday: 6:30 p.m. Prayer.

Wednesday: 6:30 p.m. Youth; 7 p.m. Adult Bible.

OTTERCREEK CHRISTIAN FELLOWSHIP, Glenwood City Civic Center, Jason Taylor, pastor Sunday: 10:30 a.m. Worship; Children’s church, childcare provided.

Wednesday Night Prayer.

OUR LADY OF THE LAKES CATHOLIC, Balsam Lake Father Eugene Murphy, pastor Masses: Saturday 6 p.m., Sunday 8:30 a.m.

OUR SAVIOR’S LUTHERAN, 217 Deronda St., Amery Keith Ruehlow, pastor Wednesday, Dec. 21: 12 p.m. Men’s Table Talk; 5 p.m. Confirmation Cafe; 5:30 p.m. Confirmation classes; 6 p.m. Evening Prayer; 6:30 p.m. Advent Vespers/BRB and Choir.

Thursday, Dec. 22: 8:15 a.m. Weigh-In Club; 8:30 a.m. Bible Study Group.

Saturday, Dec. 24: 5 and 10 p.m. Christmas Eve Service.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 9 a.m. Christmas Day worship service with Holy Communion.

PRAIRIEVIEW COVENANT, 1396 210th Ave. (2 miles north of New Richmond on 65) Joe Sir, pastor www.prairieviewchurch.net Sunday: 9 a.m. Sunday school, nursery care; 10 a.m. Worship service, nursery care.

REDEEMER LUTHERAN, 600 S. Keller Ave., Amery Tom Hahn, pastor Wednesday, Dec. 21: 5:30 p.m. Confirmation; 5:30 pm.

Soup/Sandwich Supper; 7 p.m. Advent Service; 7:45 p.m.

Choir practice.

Saturday, Dec. 24: 7 p.m. Christmas Eve Service w/HC. Sunday, Dec. 25: 9:30 a.m. Worship w/HC; 10:30 a.m. Fellowship.

REEVE EVANGELICAL FREE, Jct. Barron CTH K & A, Clear Lake, www.reevechurch.org Sunday: 9 am. Worship service; 10:15 a.m. Fellowship Time.

Wednesday nights: 6:30-7:30 p.m. 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, Clear Lake, Rev. Bob Lyga Sunday: 9:15 a.m. Sunday school; 10:15 a.m. Worship.

ST. CROIX UNITARIAN UNIVERSALIST FELLOWSHIP, 201 N. Adams, St. Croix Falls 715-483-1113 Sunday: 10 a.m. First, second and third Sunday, 715-5533386.

ST. JOHN’S CATHOLIC, Clear Lake, Fr. John Long, pastor Mass: 8 a.m. Wednesday.

Mass: 8 a.m. Thursday.

Mass: 10:30 a.m. Sunday.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC, 1050 Keller Ave. N, Amery Father Eugene Murphy 715-268-7717 www.stjosephamery.org Weekly Mass, Communion service schedule: Saturday 4 p.m. Mass.

Sunday 10:30 a.m. Mass.

Tuesday 9 a.m. Communion Service.

Wednesday 9 a.m. Mass.

Thursday: 1st, 2nd and 3rd Thursdays, Communion Service is held at local nursing homes.

Friday 9 a.m. Communion Service.

Special events: Wednesday, Dec. 21, No Prayer Shawl Ministry; Friday, Dec. 23, Office closed; Saturday, Dec. 24: 4 p.m. Children’s Christmas Eve Program followed by Mass; Sunday, Dec. 25, 10:30 a.m. Nativity of the Lord Christmas Day Mass; Monday, Dec. 26, Office closed.

ST. JOHN LUTHERAN, Forest, John Wilman, pastor Wednesday, Dec. 21: 7 p.m. 4th Midweek Advent Service at St. John’s.

Thursday, Dec. 22: 7 p.m Bible Study.

Saturday, Dec. 24: 7 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 8 a.m. Christmas Worship with Holy Communion.

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN, Deer Park, John Wilman, pastor Wednesday, Dec. 21: 7 p.m. 4th Midweek Advent service at St. John’s.

Saturday, Dec. 24: 8:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 9:30 a.m. Christmas Worship with Holy Communion.

Tuesday, Dec. 27: 6:30 p.m. Bible Study.

West Immanuel Lutheran Church Pastor Rexford Brandt 447 180th St., Osceola 715-294-2936

SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST, 76 20th Ave., Clear Lake John Redlich, pastor Saturday: 9:30 a.m. Bible Study; 11 a.m. Worship service; Head Elder David Scott 715-263-3367.

Mid-week service: Wednesday 7 p.m.

THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTS (Mormons), 644 S. 6th St., Barron Chapel 715-537-3679 Bishop Kenneth Konesky 715-719-0283 Sunday: Sacrament 10 a.m.; Sunday School/Primary 11:20 a.m.; Priesthood/Relief Society 12:10 p.m.

TRINITY LUTHERAN of Garfield, 1578 85th Ave., Amery Lori Peper, pastor 715-268-9577 Wednesday, Dec. 21: 9 a.m. Quilting.

Saturday, Dec. 21: 4:30 p.m. Combined Christmas Eve Worship at Deronda.

Sunday, Dec. 25: Combined Christmas Day Worship at Trinity.

See our website for up-to-date scheduling www.trinity lutheranchurchofamery.com UNITED COVENANT, 348 5th St. NW, Clear Lake Dan Pearson, pastor Wednesday, Dec. 21: 6:15 p.m. CREW Christmas Party.

Saturday, Dec. 24: 4 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 10 a.m. Christmas Worship service.

Tuesday, Dec. 27: 8 a.m. Sweet Hour of Prayer.

UNITED METHODIST, GLENHILLS PARISH Marybeth Scow, pastor Emerald UMC: 8:30 a.m. Worship with Sunday school.

Glenwood City UMC: 9:45 a.m. Worship with Sunday school.

Downing UMC: 11 a.m. Worship with Sunday school.

WEST IMMANUEL LUTHERAN, ELCA, 447 180th St., Osceola, Rexford D. Brandt, pastor Wednesday, Dec. 21: 6 p.m. Confirmation Meal; 7 p.m. Confirmation classes.

Saturday, Dec. 24: Christmas Eve Candlelight Services with Holy Communion at 4 and 11 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 9 a.m. Worship service with Holy Communion.

WORD OF LIFE FELLOWSHIP, Clear Lake Patricia and Harlen Wienke, pastors Sunday: 10 a.m. Worship.

Tuesday: 9 a.m. Healing Rooms by appointment.

Wednesday: 7 p.m. Adult Bible Study.

A warm Christmas welcome is extended to the entire community to attend

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC CHURCH Hwy. 46 North, Amery

Saturday, Dec. 24 - CHRISTMAS EVE 4 p.m. Children’s Christmas Eve Program followed by Mass Sunday, Dec. 25 - CHRISTMAS DAY Nativity of the Lord 10:30 a.m. Christmas Day Mass Saturday, Dec. 31 - NEW YEAR’S EVE 4 p.m. Mass Vigil of Mary - Mother of God Sunday, Jan. 1 - NEW YEAR’S DAY 10:30 a.m. Mary - Mother of God

Saturday, Dec. 24: Christmas Eve Services 4 p.m. Candlelight Service with Holy Communion; 11 p.m. Candlelight Service with Holy Commnion.

Sunday, Dec. 25: 9 a.m.

Christmas Day Worship service with Holy Communion

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OUR LADY OF THE LAKES CATHOLIC CHURCH Balsam Lake

Saturday, Dec. 24 - CHRISTMAS EVE 6 p.m. Christmas Eve Mass Sunday, Dec. 25 - CHRISTMAS DAY 8:30 a.m. Christmas Day Mass Saturday, Dec. 31 - NEW YEAR’S EVE 6 p.m. Mass Vigil of Mary - Mother of God Sunday, Jan. 1 - NEW YEAR’S DAY 8:30 a.m. Mary - Mother of God The Reverend Gene Murphy and the staffs at St. Joseph and Our Lady of the Lakes extend to all a Blessed Christmas and a Joy-filled New Year!

Christmas Piano Concert Wednesday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m.

Christmas Eve Worship Saturday, Dec. 24 3 p.m., 4:30 p.m. and 9 p.m.

Candlelight Service with Holy Communion Christmas Day Worship Sunday, Dec. 25, 9:30 a.m.

First Lutheran Church 240 W. Elm St. Amery

16A AMERY FREE PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

A gift epiphany for Three Kings’ Day Although many people are ready to take down their trees and pack away their holiday decorations once December 25 has come and gone, millions of people wait to remove such decorations until the Epiphany, which occurs on January 6 each year.

The Epiphany, also referred to as Three Kings’ Day, celebrates the day the Three Magi visited the baby Jesus and presented Him with gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh. Although any Christian can celebrate the Epiphany, the holiday is most embraced by the Hispanic community in the United States and in Spanish-speaking countries.

In Latin America, for example, many children receive gifts on Three Kings’ Day, rather than Christmas.

Certain traditions are essential to Three Kings’ Day. In the week preceding, children may write letters re-

Copies made and Faxes sent Amery Free Press

Please join us for the Christmas Season!

December 18: 9:30 a.m. JAM Christmas Program at Deronda December 24: 4:30 p.m. Christmas Eve Combined Worship at Deronda with Holy Communion December 25: 9:30 a.m. Christmas Day Combined Worship at Trinity with Holy Communion Jan. 1: 9:30 a.m. Combined Worship at Little Falls

215 S. Keller Ave., Amery

Open 8 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Monday - Friday

questing gifts they would like, especially if they have behaved well over the last 12 months.

Children also are urged to share how they intend to improve their behavior or practice good deeds to others in the upcoming year. Figurines of the three wise men are placed in nativity scenes on January 5, and children may leave out grass or other food to feed the animals of the magi, particularly the camels.

Those visiting another person’s home on Three Kings’ Day may want to bring the gift of a “King’s Ring,” also known as a Rosca de Reyes. This is a sweet bread shaped like a wreath that is adorned with candied fruit. A figurine of baby Jesus may be baked inside. Tradition states the person who finds the figurine is expected to host a party on Candlemas on February 2.

Celebrate with us!

Saturday, Dec. 24 CHRISTMAS EVE

4:30 p.m. Children & Family Worship Service 9:30 p.m. Candlelight Service of Lessons and Carols

Sunday, Dec. 25

CHRISTMAS DAY 10 a.m. Worship

Congregational Church 201 N. Harriman Ave., Amery 715-268-7390 ameryucc.org

Enjoy the Sounds of the Season!

Christmas Eve Service Saturday, Dec. 24, 4 p.m.

Candlelight Service with Holy Communion

Christmas Day Service Sunday, Dec. 25, 10 a.m. with Holy Communion

First Lutheran Church 811 South Ave. W, Clear Lake

NEIGHBORS UNITED IN CHRIST Deronda Little Falls Trinity Lutheran Lutheran Lutheran

Co. Rd. F west of Amery

Join us for these special holiday services

Advent Service

Wednesday, Dec. 21, 7 p.m.

Christmas Eve Saturday, Dec. 24

7 p.m. Candlelight Service with Communion

Christmas Day Service 9:30 a.m. Sunday, Dec. 25 with Communion

Redeemer Lutheran Church 600 Keller Ave. S, Amery 715-268-7283

Everyone Welcome!

Just off Co. Rd. C west of Amery

1578 85th Ave./Cty. Rd. F, Amery (east of Hwy. 65)

Please join us for the Holidays!

Saturday, Dec. 24 4 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service Sunday, Dec. 25 10:15 a.m. Christmas Day Service

Amery Free Lutheran Church Hwy. F west of Amery 715-268-9218

“Christmas in the Barn” SATURDAY, DEC. 24

Join us at the manger at 2 p.m.

Strodthoff-Kopp Farm, 1364 105th Ave./ CTH C, Amery. Dress warm!

Pets Welcome - Blessings of the Animals

On Saturday, Dec. 24, everyone is invited to a dinner at 3:30 p.m. at the church followed by Candlelight Service at 5 p.m.

9 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service at Elim Lutheran Church Christmas Day Carols 10:15 a.m. at Balsam Lutheran Church

Balsam Lutheran Elim Church Lutheran 1115 Mains Crossing, Amery Church (5 miles north of Amery off CTH H) 715-268-9291

Range

SPIRITUAL

DECEMBER 20, 2016

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AMERY FREE PRESS

Spend Christmas Eve and Christmas Day celebrating the birth of Jesus And we’ll call him Immanuel . . . meaning “God with us.”

Our Savior’s Lutheran Church

217 Deronda St. on CTH F in Amery

Saturday, Dec. 24 4 p.m. Christmas Eve Candlelight Service

Nursery care is provided for small children Handicap accessible

Sunday, Dec. 25

10 a.m. Christmas Day Service

United Covenant Church 348 5th St. NW, (Jct. Hwy. 63 & Cty. JJ) CLEAR LAKE Phone 715-263-2665

Amery Community Theatre

AUDITIONS

Saturday, Dec. 24 5 and 10 p.m.

Christmas Eve services Sunday, Dec. 25 9 a.m. Christmas Day service with Holy Communion

“The Odd Couple” WOMEN’S VERSION

Wednesday, Dec. 28 7 p.m. at Deronda Lutheran Church Cty. Rd. F west of Amery

6 WOMEN, 2 MEN

Production dates end March/first April For more information please call 715-410-4547

An Amery Free Press Subscription makes a wonderful Christmas gift!

Holiday films to lift your spirits Many families have their own unique holiday traditions, but some traditions transcend familial lines to become an integral part of many people’s holiday celebrations. One of the more popular traditions during this festive time of year is to watch a favorite holiday film with family and friends. With that in mind, the following are some of the most beloved holiday movies ever to make it onto the big screen.

• “It’s a Wonderful Life”: Perhaps no holiday film is more beloved than this 1946 Frank Capra-directed classic.

Screen legend Jimmy Stewart plays a desperate businessman contemplating suicide during the holiday season. But a guardian angel helps him realize all the good fortune in his life by showing him what life might have been like if he had never existed.

• “White Christmas”: This 1954 songand-dance film stars Bing Crosby and Danny Kaye as a pair of longtime friends and ex-military men who fall in love with a sister act team that includes famous singer (and aunt to George Clooney) Rosemary Clooney. Crosby and Kaye join forces to save the failing Vermont inn of their beloved former commander.

• “Miracle on 34th Street”: Natalie Wood stars in this 1947 classic that follows the trial of Kris Kringle, who claims to be Santa Claus and must prove otherwise to avoid being institutionalized. Nominated for Best Picture at the 1948 Academy Awards, “Miracle on 34th Street” won three of the prestigious statuettes, including a Best Supporting Actor Oscar® for Edmund Gwenn, who played the jolly old man in the red suit.

• “Bad Santa”: Though not quite as heartwarming as many holiday films, this 2003 black comedy stars Billy Bob Thornton as miserable, alcoholic con man “Willie,” who poses as a mall Santa Claus so he can rob a department store safe on Christmas Eve. But in spite of its rather raunchy take on the holiday season, the film is ultimately a story of redemption as Willie befriends a bullied youngster and begins to turn his life around.

• “A Christmas Carol”: Those looking for a more traditional take on holiday films need look no further than this 1951 adaptation of the Charles Dickens novella, which tells the tale of bitter miser Ebenezer Scrooge as he is haunted by three ghosts on Christmas Eve.

In a religion that was born in a barn, open doors go without saying . . .

The Willow River United Methodist Parish invites you to join us this Christmas season as we celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ SUNDAY WORSHIP:

8:30 a.m. Clear Lake United Methodist Church 9:45 a.m. Forest United Methodist Church 11 a.m. Deer Park United Methodist Church

CHRISTMAS EVE CANDLELIGHT SERVICE, SATURDAY, DEC. 24 4 p.m. at the Clear Lake United Methodist 5:30 p.m. at the Forest United Methodist 7 p.m. at the Deer Park United Methodist

We invite the public to come worship with us during the year 2017!

for

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CHRISTMAS DAY SERVICE, SUNDAY, DEC. 25

10 a.m. at the Deer Park United Methodist Clear Lake U.M.C. - 420 4th Ave. Trinity-Deer Park U.M.C. - 221 2nd St. W Forest U.M.C. - 1893 Co. Rd. D & Hwy. 64

CHRISTMAS EVE 4:30 p.m. Candlelight Service with Holy Communion CHRISTMAS DAY 10:30 a.m. Christmas Service with Holy Communion NEW YEAR’S DAY 10:30 a.m. Christmas Lessons and Carols

East Immanuel Lutheran Church 207 120th Street Amery, WI 54001 715-268-2143 www.eastimmanuel-lutheran.org

18A AMERY FREE PRESS

SPIRITUAL

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

OBITUARIES

Iona M. (Penny) Syverson

Leonard W. Kaehler

Gertrude E. Fredericks

Iona Merle (Penny) Syverson, age 94, passed peacefully in the presence of family on November 23, 2016 in Maple Grove, MN. She was born on June 7, 1922 in Hawley, MN to parents Florian H. and Verdiah (Wyland) Riedberger. Penny graduated from Hawley High School, where she played on the women's basketball team, and from Interstate Business College in Fargo, ND. On August 9, 1944 she married Clinton O. (Cy) Syverson in Hanford, CA while he was serving in the US Army Air Force.

Penny and Cy lived in Roseville, MN before moving to Ohio. After being transferred from Alliance, OH 19 years later, they lived in Bloomington, MN. Upon retirement, they moved to a home on Lake Wapogasset in Amery, WI where they resided for 16 years. They then built a townhouse on Pondhurst Drive, also in Amery. The couple enjoyed 62 years of marriage and adventure together before his death in 2006.

Penny was a loving and loved wife, mother, grandmother, and great grandmother who devoted herself to the care of her family and home and lived her life with strength and determination. She was also active in the community and held offices in the United Methodist Women's Organization and the League of Women Voters in Minnesota and Ohio.

She was always ready for ice cream (with plenty of hot fudge!) and had a special knack of convincing you to finish off the last bit of a dish no matter how full you were. Penny's bright, mischievous smile was a gift to be treasured by all who were lucky enough to elicit it.

She was preceded in death by her husband Clinton (Cy), her parents, her brother LuVerne and sisters Veretta Westlund, Floretta Cobler and Opal Burnside.

Survived by six children; Diane in Boston, MA, Clinton (Karen) in Oakland, MI, Larry (Jan) in Minerva, OH, Nancy in Plymouth, MN, Paul (Jill) in Frederic, WI, and David (Gini) in Apple Valley, MN, seven grandchildren and three great grandchildren. She leaves behind two sisters, Venda Aune, and DeLayne (Ron) Thorson, and two brothers, Melvin (Peg) and Orville (Donna).

A private memorial service was held at Centennial United Methodist Church in Roseville, MN where she and Cy were founding members. Interment of her ashes will take place at a later date at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, WI where Penny will rest eternally beside her beloved husband.

Memorials may be directed to the Cure Alzheimer's Fund to honor Penny's memory.

(November 17, 1938 - December 10, 2016)

Gertrude E. Fredericks, 96, of Turtle Lake died Monday, December 19, 2016 at Monroe Manor in Barron.

She was born April 25, 1920 in Turtle Lake, WI to William and Amelia (Andrick) Grewe. They lived in Almena for two years before moving to Amery. Gertrude graduated from Amery High School in 1938. After high school, she attended and graduated from UW River Falls with a teaching degree in 1941. She was a school teacher in Turtle Lake from 1942-1983.

Gertrude was married in Amery, WI on August 17, 1945 to Arthur R Fredericks who preceded her in death on May 12, 1995.

In her spare time, she enjoyed playing cards, bowling, doing cross stitch and her time as a Sunday school teacher at Zion Lutheran Church, Turtle Lake.

Gertrude is survived by her son, David (Marlys) Fredericks of Clayton; daughter, Arlyce (Neal) Langness of Amery; grandchildren, Jennifer (Mark) Hildebrandt and Jeffrey (Jessie) Langness, Christopher (Jess) Fredericks and Jason (Wendy Niesl) Fredericks; great grandchildren, Harlee, Alexis, Anika, Wyatt and Cooper and great great grandchild, Brantlee. She was preceded in death by her parents and brothers, Walt and Harold.

Funeral services will be held at 1:30 PM Wednesday, December 21, 2016 at First Lutheran Church, Arland, WI with Rev. Timothy Vettrus officiating. Burial will be in Mt Hope Cemetery, Turtle Lake, WI. Pallbearers are Christopher Fredericks, Jason Fredericks, Jeffrey Langness, Joe Colburn Mark Hilderbrandt and Dan Ritsche. Visitation will be from 12:00 - 1:30 PM at the church on Wednesday.

Skinner Funeral Home of Turtle Lake is serving the family.

Leonard W. Kaehler, age 78 of Apple Valley, passed away Dec. 10, 2016 after a short illness. He was born and raised in Clayton, WI. He is preceded in death by his parents, Ernie and Ruth, and sister, JoAnn Lien.

Every day he will be missed by his wife of 58 years, Diane; his daughters, Kelley (Tim) Nordvik, Karen (Kevin) Donovan, and Patricia (Brian) Maus; his grandchildren, Holly (Tom) Waggoner, Erin (John) Carmean, and Whitney (Andrew) Splinter, Jayme and Ryan Donovan, and Taylor and Brady Maus; great grandchildren, Tyler, Kenzey, Kyley, Mason, Owen, Emily, and Jack. He is also survived by his brothers, Ernie (Karen), Wayne, and Lyle; sister, Kathi (Scott) Wood.

Leonard was a kind and honest man who loved his family and friends. He enjoyed his time at the cabin, taking the pontoon out on the lake, hunting, playing golf and being part of the “Garden Club”. He was the best fan at his grandchildren’s many activities. Len was a great story teller, who loved his hometown of Clayton and seemed to know everyone where ever he went. For 45 years, Len was an active member of the Apple Valley and Rosemount Lions Club and received many awards for his contributions.. His life was full of people who loved and respected him. A loving husband, dad, grandfather, uncle, brother and friend, he will truly be missed by all.

A celebration of Life service was held 11 AM Friday, December 16, 2016 at Grace Lutheran Church, 7800 West County Rd 42, Apple Valley with visitation from 5-8 PM Thursday at White Funeral Home (14560 Pennock Ave) Apple Valley and one hour prior to the service at church. www.whitefuneralhomes.com

ining a m e R

December issues of the Amery Free Press are as follows ...

KANABEC COUNTY

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PINE CITYare The Tab and Amery Free Press, news and advertising, Deadlines Thursday, Dec. 22, at 4 p.m.

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The Amery Free Press office will be closed Monday, December 26 and Monday, January 2.

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PUBLIC NOTICES

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT, POLK COUNTY NOTICE AND ORDER FOR NAME CHANGE HEARING Case No. 16 CV 367 In the matter of the name change of: Ryan Joseph LaBlanc NOTICE IS GIVEN: A petition was filed asking to change the name of the person listed above: From: Ryan Joseph LaBlanc To: Ryan Joseph Gilbertson IT IS ORDERED: This petition will be heard in the Circuit Court of Polk County, State of Wisconsin, Branch 1 Circuit Court, 1005 W. Main St., Balsam Lake, WI 54810 on January 12, 2017 at 2 p.m.

If you require reasonable accommodations due to a disability to participate in the court process, please call 715485-9299 at least ten (10) working days prior to the scheduled court date. Please note that the court does not provide transportation.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED: Notice of this hearing shall be given by publication as a Class 3 notice for three (3) weeks in a row prior to the date of the hearing in the Amery Free Press, a newspaper published in Polk County, State of Wisconsin.

BY THE COURT: Howard W. Cameron December 12, 2016

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT, POLK COUNTY NOTICE AND ORDER FOR NAME CHANGE HEARING Case No. 16 CV 368 In the matter of the name change of: Jacqueline Jean LaBlanc NOTICE IS GIVEN: A petition was filed asking to change the name of the person listed above: From: Jacqueline Jean LaBlanc To: Jacqueline Jean Gilbertson IT IS ORDERED: This petition will be heard in the Circuit Court of Polk County, State of Wisconsin, Branch 1 Circuit Court, 1005 W. Main St., Balsam Lake, WI 54810 on January 12, 2017 at 2 p.m.

If you require reasonable accommodations due to a disability to participate in the court process, please call 715485-9299 at least ten (10) working days prior to the scheduled court date. Please note that the court does not provide transportation.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED: Notice of this hearing shall be given by publication as a Class 3 notice for three (3) weeks in a row prior to the date of the hearing in the Amery Free Press, a newspaper published in Polk County, State of Wisconsin.

BY THE COURT: Howard W. Cameron December 12, 2016

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT, POLK COUNTY NOTICE AND ORDER FOR NAME CHANGE HEARING Case No. 16 CV 369 In the matter of the name change of: Cashton Douglas LaBlanc By (Petitioner): Ryan Joseph LaBlanc By (co-petitioner): Jacqueline Jean LaBlanc NOTICE IS GIVEN: A petition was filed asking to change the name of the person listed above: From: Cashton Douglas LaBlanc To: Cashton Douglas Gilbertson Birth Certificate: Cashton Douglas Gilbertson IT IS ORDERED: This petition will be heard in the Circuit Court of Polk County, State of Wisconsin, Branch 1 Circuit Court, 1005 W. Main St., Balsam Lake, WI 54810 on January 12, 2017 at 2 p.m.

If you require reasonable accommodations due to a disability to participate in the court process, please call 715485-9299 at least ten (10) working days prior to the scheduled court date. Please note that the court does not provide transportation.

IT IS FURTHER ORDERED: Notice of this hearing shall be given by publication as a Class 3 notice for three (3) weeks in a row prior to the date of the hearing in the Amery Free Press, a newspaper published in Polk County, State of Wisconsin.

BY THE COURT: Howard W. Cameron December 12, 2016

(Dec. 20, 27, Jan. 3)

WNAXLP

(Dec. 20, 27, Jan. 3)

WNAXLP

(Dec. 20, 27, Jan. 3)

WNAXLP

James Krupa Attorney-at-Law

307 S. Keller, Amery Monday-Thursday 8:30 a.m.-4:30 p.m.

Closed Fridays Other times by appointment Phone 715-268-8135

Family Dentistry Members American Dental Association

D. P. Doroff, D.D.S. J. J. Lampi, D.D.S. A. G. Ott, D.D.S. T. P. VanSomeren, D.D.S.

ST. PAUL, Minn. – As part of a multi-faceted media campaign that is calling attention to the amount of shoplifting and other petty crimes that occur at Wal-Mart stores, and the use of police resources to deal with the crime, Minnesota state representatives, along with Making Change at Walmart and other community supporters held a press conference in the State Office Building at the Minnesota State House Wednesday, Dec. 14.

Speakers included Rep. John Lesch, District 66B; Rep. Mike Nelson, District 40A; Jennifer Christensen, president of UFCW Local 1189; Brooklyn Park citizen Linda Freemon; and former St. Paul School Board member and community activist Tom Goldstein.

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 Jessica de la Cruz: editor@ theameryfreepress.com

Rep. Lesch commented, “This is something that I think Wal-Mart should be addressing, but they have not. … Right here in Minnesota we have a tradition of ensuring that our public resources are shared fairly and equally, and right now, Walmart is consuming an inordinate share of those resources. … I’m hoping that with this initiative Walmart will start realizing that they cannot continue to consume those levels of police resources, that there are other area of the city that need to be addressed as well.”

The organization ‘Making Change at Walmart’ has been holding campaigns in metro areas throughout the United States, including Tulsa, Phoenix, Dallas, and Tampa.

TOWN OF LINCOLN Plan Commission

December 26, 2016 Meeting Agenda A quorum of the Town Board may be present The Plan Commission for the Town of Lincoln will hold their monthly meeting on Monday, December 26, 2016 at 6:00 p.m. at the Lincoln Town Hall -- 661 85th Street.

1. Call to Order 2. Roll Call 3. Verify Meeting Notice 4. Approve Agenda 5. Approve Previous Minutes 6. Public Comments 7. Reports of Chair/Commission Members 8. Minor Subdivision for Judy Roberts 9. 2 Lot CSM for Mike Gorres 10. Comprehensive Plan Discussion 11. Zoning Map Discussion 12. Set Date & Agenda for Next Meeting 13. Adjourn Note: Agenda items may not be taken up in this order.

Stephanie Marciniak, Town Clerk – 715-268-4747 Published December 20, 2016 – Amery Free Press

BUSINESS AND Mike Jacob: classifieds@ PROFESSIONAL theameryfreepress.com DIRECTORY Diane Stangl: dstangl@ theameryfreepress.com Christopherson Eye Clinic Bette Elmer: belmer@ Vision Examination Contact Lenses theameryfreepress.com Provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most insurances

Certified Public Accountant Accounting • Tax • Retirement Services

Our offices are located at 215 Keller Ave. S. 433 3 Ave, Clear Lake, WI • (715) 263-4111 • www.OverbyFinancial.com We are open from Novitzke, Gust, Sempf, Whitley and Bergmanis FAMILY EYE Attorneys-at-Law 8 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.

CLINIC DON PAUL NOVITZKE JASON WHITLEY MondayW.- Friday GERALD N. GUST *ERIK M. BERGMANIS 341 Keller Ave. N Amery, Wis. 54001 Phone 715-268-2020

120 N. Keller Ave. Amery, WI 54001 Call 715-268-9010

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River Place Dental

FAMILY DENTISTRY Rollyn P. Lee, D.D.S. Heather Marks, D.D.S.

1030 River Place Drive, Amery Ph. 715-268-2103

BYRNES LAW OFFICE 123 Keller Ave. N, Amery, WI 54001 715-268-5000

Brian D. Byrnes

Hours: Monday-Friday 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

rd

Dr. Daniel C. Satterlund

404 Wisconsin Ave. Amery, Wis. Phone 715-268-7177

Group, speakers urge Wal-Mart to invest in more security

Pam Humpal: phumpal@ theameryfreepress.com

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(1937-2004)

*TIMOTHY T. SEMPF

314 Keller Ave. N., P.O. Box 200, Amery, Wisconsin 54001 Phone 715-268-6130 *Licensed in Minnesota and Wisconsin

Richard A. Davis, CPA Randy A. Paulson, CPA Dirk A. Prindle, CPA Margo A. Rosen, CPA Roger Van Someren, CPA Abby L. Williamson, CPA Cathy A. Gille, CPA, MN 301 Keller Ave. S, Amery WI Business: (715) 268-7999 Fax (715) 268-4161 www.carlsonhighlandcpa.com

20A AMERY FREE PRESS

LEGALS/PUBLIC NOTICES

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

IN MEMORIAM

IN MEMORIAM

In Loving Memory of Michael Frank Morrissey 11-13-1959 - 12-22-2009 On your angel day where do they go when they leave us?

They go beyond sorrow they go beyond pain they go beyond losses they go beyond gain.

Not beyond memory never beyond love they dwell in our spirit like wings on a dove.

Michael you were part of us yesterday, you are part of us Mike and his mom tomorrow and forever more.

From here to there from there to here, you are in our hearts forever and ever, our prayers and love to you into eternity.

Merry Christmas Michael Love always, Mom, Dad, Sue, Bonnie, Cindy

A YEAR WITHOUT YOU To My Precious Johnathan Thomas Carnine:

In Loving Memory

A year has already gone by.

A year full of unwanted change, agony and despair.

Months of unfulfilled longing to have you call me again and say, “Hey, Mom.” To hear you talk about all your dreams, hopes and wishes.

Twelve months that will turn into decades.

Flooding memories that bring me joy, laughter, gratitude, heartbreak and regret of knowing that there are so many who, first-hand, know my pain and being grateful that others will never have to.

A year of wondering how, exactly, am I suppose to feel?

A year of knowing that sometimes a mom’s love isn’t enough.

But knowing, with my whole heart and soul, that Jesus knows and cares. And that He will wipe away all our tears (Revelation 21:4).

I will not mark each passing year of your death. I will only celebrate your birthday. Because you were a gift from God to me.

I miss you so much I can hardly breathe. I love you always and forever.

-Mom

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year Kiley Munson Kindergarten

from all of us at Carlson Highland & Co.

Al Humpal

2017 Desk

Calendars

Born May 18, 1918 Died Dec. 22, 2004

Amery Free Press

The Amery Secret Santa Committee would like to thank the businesses, organizations, individuals and the following churches: Amery Free, Balsam Lutheran, Congregational, Deronda, East Immanuel, First Lutheran, Grace Community, Little Falls, Our Saviors, Redeemer, St Joseph’s and Trinity Lutheran for sponsoring families this Christmas. We are also appreciative of Dick’s Fresh Market for donating hams and Ulrich Farms for donating milk coupons to the families. As a result of your generosity and compassion, 97 families and 261 children were assisted during this Holiday Season!

Send/Receive Faxes AMERY FREE PRESS

Merry Christmas from all of us at . . .

Owen Gould Grade 2

Chase Prindle Grade 1

Closed Dec. 26th Closed Jan. 2nd

Dec. 23 closing at noon Closed Dec. 24, 25 & 26 Closing Dec. 30 at 3 p.m.

Closed Dec. 31, Jan. 1 & 2

Leadholm Insurance Agency’s Saturday business hours will now be offered by appointment beginning January 7, 2017.

Leadholm

301 Keller Ave. S, Amery, WI 54001 Phone 715-268-7999 www.carlsonhighlandcpa.com

Insurance Agency 212 N. Keller Ave. • Amery, Wis. Phone 715-268-7188

LEGALS/PUBLIC NOTICES

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

LEGAL NOTICE

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT, POLK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF STEPHEN G. VAN HEUKLOM DOD: March 31, 2009

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT, POLK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF CAROL J. STOLL DOD: November 13, 2016

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT, POLK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF NICHOLAS J. ALLEE DOD: September 25, 2016 NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Informal Administration) Case No. 16 PR 79 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: 1. An application for informal administration was filed.

2. The decedent, with date of birth March 11, 1982 and date of death September 25, 2016, was domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin, with a mailing address of 1344 101st Street, Amery, WI 54001.

3. All interested persons waived notice.

4. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is March 20, 2017.

5. A claim may be filed at the Polk County Courthouse, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin.

Jenell L. Anderson Probate Registrar December 8, 2016 Brian D. Byrnes Byrnes Law Office, LLC 123 Keller Ave. North Amery, WI 54001 715-268-5000 Bar Number 1032419

NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Informal Administration) Case No. 16 PR 89 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: 1. An application for informal administration was filed.

2. The decedent, with date of birth October 6, 1928 and date of death March 31, 2009, was domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin, with a mailing address of 1132 55th Street, Amery, WI 54001.

3. All interested persons waived notice.

4. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is February 28, 2017.

5. A claim may be filed at the Polk County Courthouse, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, Room 500.

Jenell L. Anderson Probate Registrar November 21, 2016 Brian D. Byrnes Byrnes Law Office, LLC 123 Keller Ave. North Amery, WI 54001 715-268-5000 Bar Number 1032419

NOTICE TO CREDITORS (Informal Administration) Case No. 16 PR 90 PLEASE TAKE NOTICE: 1. An application for informal administration was filed.

2. The decedent, with date of birth June 17, 1941 and date of death November 13, 2016, was domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin, with a mailing address of 227 George Street, Amery, WI 54001.

3. All interested persons waived notice.

4. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is March 10, 2017.

5. A claim may be filed at the Polk County Courthouse, Balsam Lake, Wisconsin, Room 500.

Jenell L. Anderson Probate Registrar November 28, 2016 Brian D. Byrnes Byrnes Law Office, LLC 123 Keller Ave. North Amery, WI 54001 715-268-5000 Bar Number 1032419 (Dec. 6, 13, 20)

WNAXLP

(Dec. 6, 13, 20)

WNAXLP

21A

Governor Scott Walker Commits to Holding the Line on Property Taxes in Upcoming Budget Waukesha – Governor Scott Walker traveled to Waukesha last week to highlight the savings taxpayers have seen in their property taxes since taking office. Estimated property tax bills for the typical homeowner will be $116 lower this year than they were in 2010, resulting in a six-year cumulative estimated savings of over $1,700 compared to the previous four-year trend.

“Our top priority is the taxpayers of Wisconsin,” Governor Walker said.

“We will be further prioritizing ways to ease the tax burden for hard-working Wisconsin families in the upcoming budget bill. In 2010, the property tax burden, as a proportion of personal income, rose to the highest level it had been since the mid-90s and it is now the lowest it’s been since 1946.”

Prior to Governor Walker taking office, property taxes on a typical home had increased 27 percent over a decade. In 2014, Governor Walker and the legislature dedicated an additional $406 million each year to property tax relief to protect working families, senior citizens, farmers, and small businesses. Nearly $500 more would be

coming out of the typical homeowner’s pocket this year if property taxes had continued to rise on the same trend they were prior to Governor Walker taking office in 2011.

Governor Walker was joined today by taxpayers Beth and Jeff, both of whom saw their property taxes go down as a result of the governor’s reforms. Beth, whose Waukesha-based company provides senior housing, says the property tax reduction she’s seen “helps to offset expenses related to recruiting, training, and retaining quality healthcare workers.” Meanwhile, Jeff saw property taxes go down on his home in Waukesha, saying “my property tax bill went down significantly for the first time in my life! I did not think this was possible.”

“We’ve taken big steps to lower the property tax burden on Wisconsinites and remain committed to holding the line on property taxes in the upcoming budget. Wisconsin property taxpayers needed a champion, and our efforts over the past six years have put them first,” Governor Walker added.

(Dec. 20, 27 & Jan. 3)

WNAXLP

MERRY CHRISTMAS

Happy Holidays!

Lincoln Heinn Grade 3

First Place winner in Grade 3 in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest

Erspamer Law Office Amery • 715-268-2550

Grace Williamson Grade 4

The Law Firm of Williams and Davis

PERSONAL INJURY, CRIMINAL, CRIMINAL, SOCIAL SECURITY DISABILITY SOCIAL SECURITY PERSONAL INJURY, DIVORCE,DISABILITY, BANKRUPTCY* DIVORCE, BANKRUPTCY* www.wisconsintriallaw.com www.wisconsintriallaw.com inquiry@wistriallaw.com inquiry@wistriallaw.com 715-268-8901 715-268-8901 314 WIWI 54001 314Keller KellerAvenue AvenueNorth North• Amery, • Amery, 54001

*We are a debt relief agency. *We are a debt relief agency. We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.

We help people file for bankruptcy relief under the Bankruptcy Code.

22A AMERY FREE PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

CWD Response Plan Evers congratulates eight new recommendations open National Board Certified Teachers for public comment Another 75 educators renewed their national certification

MADISON — Eight teachers from Wisconsin public schools joined the ranks of those holding national board certification, considered the gold standard in teacher certification. Another 75 Wisconsin educators renewed their national certification this year.

The class of 2016 includes 533 new and 3,384 renewed National Board Certified Teachers for a total of 112,000 nationwide. Wisconsin now has 945 active National Board Certified Teachers and is ranked 20th in the nation for the number of teachers who hold the national credential.

“I commend our board certified Wisconsin teachers for their dedication to their profession and their students,” said State Superintendent Tony Evers. “Achieving or renewing national certification is a demanding process that requires teachers to demonstrate their subject matter knowledge, instructional excellence, and commitment to the profession.”

Wisconsin teachers earning certification for the first time are • Debra Bowman, Spring Valley School District, Music/Early and Middle Childhood; • Natalie Buhl, West De Pere School District, English Language Arts/Adolescence and Young

Adulthood; • Sarah Hafenstein, Watertown Unified School District, Music/ Early Adolescence through Young Adulthood; • Nicole Horsley, South Milwaukee School District, Literacy: Reading-Language Arts/Early and Middle Childhood; • Jessica Krause, Jefferson School District, Generalist/Middle Childhood; • Amanda Mortimer, Beloit School District, Generalist/Early Childhood; • Lindsay Norrish, Madison Metropolitan School District, Generalist/Middle Childhood; and • Kathy Noteboom, Bayfield School District, Generalist/Middle Childhood.

National board certification is open to all educators who have a baccalaureate degree and three years of classroom experience in either a public or private school.

The National Board for Professional Teaching Standard’s 2016 National Board Certified Teachers founding mission is to advance the quality of teaching and learning through rigorous standards for what accomplished teachers should know and be able to do, a national voluntary system for certifying teachers who meet those

standards, and related education reforms to integrate national board certification in American education and to capitalize on the expertise of National Board Certified Teachers. Wisconsin has a number of educators who have achieved national certification who offer their support to others who are working toward the credential.

Wisconsin is among approximately two-thirds of states that provide salary incentives and cover some costs to achieve the advanced credential. Those who teach in state schools can receive up to $2,000 to reimburse the cost of earning national board certification. Among requirements to receive nine annual stipends of $2,500, teachers must remain employed as Wisconsin educators and be rated “effective” or “highly effective” in the applicable educator effectiveness system. Wisconsin teachers who work in high-need, high-poverty schools in the state can receive an additional $2,500 annually. Professional Educator License can qualify for the Wisconsin Master Educator License after earning NBCT certification.

MADISON – Wisconsin’s citizens have continued to embrace a larger role in deer management, and Tuesday, Dec. 20 marks the beginning of an opportunity to provide input regarding Chronic Wasting Disease Response Plan recommendations.

Over the past several months, the Department of Natural Resources, Department of Agriculture, Trade, and Consumer Protection, and Wisconsin Conservation Congress have sponsored a stakeholder-based CWD Response Plan review committee to discuss and review the DNR’s 15-year Chronic Wasting Disease Response Plan. The plan covers action items like CWD surveillance and monitoring, hunting season tools, captive deer regulations, biosecurity and safety, research, and public involvement.

Review committee recommendations will be released for online public comment from Dec. 20, 2016 to Jan. 3, 2017. To view the recommendations and provide feedback online, visit the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ website at dnr.wi.gov and search keyword “CWD response plan.”

Following the close of the public comment period, public feedback will be shared with each County Deer Advisory Council for review and discussion during January CDAC meetings.

Citizens can also send public comments directly to council members before January CDAC meetings or present their comments during the public comment section of these meetings.

A list of council members and meeting locations for each county can be found at keyword “CDAC” - click “find” to search for county information.

For more information regarding chronic wasting disease in Wisconsin, search keyword “CWD.”

Merry Christmas Zachary Hosking Kindergarten

Merry Christmas Mia Byrnes Grade 2

Cali Schanon Kindergarten

Season’s Greetings from ...

Joey Byrnes Grade 2

Second Place winner in Kindergarten in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest

Third Place winner in Grade 2 in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest

Byrnes Law Office BRIAN D. BYRNES

314 Keller Ave. North, Amery, WI 54001

715-268-5000

James Schanon Insurance Agency 219 Keller Ave. N, Amery 715-268-9211

115 Keller Ave. N. Amery, WI 54001 Phone 715-268-7832 www.Bridgewhatmatters.com

LEGALS/PUBLIC NOTICES

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

Wisconsin trees vendors operate as normal during US decline the public and seeing their happiness when they come out and get a tree and their excitement,” Nicholson said.

She noted Wisconsin and the rest of the U.S. sold more trees in the early 2000s. Wisconsin also had nearly 33,500 acres of Christmas trees in 2007 compared to the more than 23,600 acres this year.

Nicholson attributed the decline to the 2008 financial crisis and housing crash because families were cutting costs.

“The economy plays a big part in tree sales because if people don't have jobs or they're not making as much money, the Christmas tree may not be the thing they need to have,” she said.

JANESVILLE, Wis. (AP) — Christmas trees vendors in Wisconsin said returning customers have helped keep their businesses running as usual while the number of trees sold nationally declines.

The state's sales have been normal, although in recent years they've have fluctuated, Wisconsin Christmas Tree Producers Association executive secretary Cheryl Nicholson told The Janesville Gazette.

Vern Nauman, a volunteer at Toeelein-Nursery in Janesville, said family-owned lots often see the same families year after year.

“The fun part is out there selling to

23A

Wisconsin elections official says no security concerns MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A Wisconsin state elections official says despite concerns over security, no problems were detected in last month's election or the just-completed presidential recount.

Elections supervisor Ross Hein reported at a Wisconsin Elections Commission meeting on Wednesday that all election applications,

including the commission's website, all worked smoothly. He says “we saw none” of the security issues they were on guard for before the election.

Hein says, “Certainly we are happy with how the election was administered.”

Green Party presidential candidate Jill Stein requested a recount in Wisconsin, citing pos-

sible concerns about the security of the vote.

But Stein had no evidence of wrongdoing and state and local elections officials have repeatedly said they saw no evidence that voting machines were hacked or otherwise compromised.

Season’s Greetings and Good Wishes for the New Year from all of us at Northwest Communications!

Marcus Zacharias Grade 3

Nelson Wilcox Grade 4

Leo Jensen Grade 1

Griffin Wilcox Grade 1

Lola Gorres Pre-K

Oliver Gorres Pre-K

Norah Gorres Grade 2

Northwest Communications www.nwcomm.net

116 Harriman Ave. N., Amery, WI 54001 715-268-7101

If you have repair problems please report to our service department 715-268-7100 Our business office will be closed Dec. 23, 26 and Jan. 2

24A AMERY FREE PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2016 www.theameryfreepress.com

Musical Medley

Amery Middle School students performed their annual Holiday Concert to a packed house on Thursday. The sixth graders performed both choir and band pieces, including a piece that imagined what Santa would sound like if he were a secret agent. The eighth grade girls sang a special selection of ‘Welcome Christmas’ followed by the 7th and 8th grade boys in a singing/dancing rendition of ‘Up on the Housetop.” The evening was capped off by the Jazz Band’s performance of ‘You’re a mean one, Mr. Grinch,’ who even made a brief appearance to steal the show for a moment.

Compassionate care or corporate care?

Choose well.

Find women’s health expertise and care at Cumberland Healthcare.

With everything from preventative wellness to more specialized OB/GYN services, Cumberland Healthcare ensures that the care you need is available where and when you need it.

Call 715.822.7500 to schedule an appointment.

Visit cumberlandhealthcare.com to find a provider.

Wishing you and your family a wonderful Holiday Season

Ben, Lisa, Dena, Nichole and Darren

1060 Riverplace Mall Amery, WI 54001 715-268-HOME (4663)

Closed Dec. 24, 25, 26 & 31, and Jan. 1 & 2

HOURS: Monday-Friday 9-5 Saturday 10-1 www.stonecreek custominteriors.com

KANABEC COUNTY

TIMES

To our readers and advertisers

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 2222

VOL. 131 NO. 19 www.moraminn.com $1.00

We love delivering news from around the area and we couldn’t do it without the support of our loyal readers and PINE CITY advertisers. Thank you for making us your newspaper of choice. We look forward to reporting to you in the new year!

PIONEER

From all of us to all of you . . .

Merry Christmas!

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FREE PRESS MESSENGER AMERY

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Enjoy viewing the children’s cards from grades COUNTRY Kindergarten through Grade 4 in this Christmas issue of the Amery Free Press THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 2222

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SENTINEL BURNETT COUNTY

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DECEMBER 20, 2016 www.theameryfreepress.com

COOKING WORLD Tidbit: Don’t believe all you hear and don’t say all you think. (unknown) Carolyn Lumsden 715-483-9738

This fudge is a no-fail fudge.

Everyone will have good results

with this recipe.

CHOCOLATE WALNUT FUDGE Bring to a rolling boil in saucepan: 2 cans (14 oz. ea.) sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk) Remove from heat and stir in: 1 pkg. (12 oz.) semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 pkg. (12 oz.) milk chocolate chips Stir until smooth and chips are melted.

Stir in: 1 c. chopped walnuts (or pecans) Mix well. Put into a 8” square pan lined with foil so it is easy to remove, leaving longer edges so it can be removed easily. Chill for 3-4 hours or until firm. Hint: If you wish, before chilling, top with more chopped walnuts or mini marshmallows for a Rocky Road type Fudge. Be very careful when cutting pieces so you don’t get pieces of foil in the candy.

This casserole has round steak for the meat. Add vegetables and you’ll have a good-tasting and comfort-food type meal.

SWISS STEAK CASSEROLE Heat oven to 350°.

In medium bowl, combine: 3 T. flour 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. paprika 1/2 tsp. pepper Cut 1 pound beef round steak into 3/4” cubes. Put the pieces into the flour mixture and toss to coat.

Heat 1 T. oil in skillet and add the coated round steak pieces and brown in the skillet on all sides, stirring occasionally.

Spoon into a 2-1/2 qt. casserole.

In same skillet, add 1 T. oil and add: 2 c. sliced mushrooms 1 c. frozen pearl onions (or fresh chopped onion) 1 clove garlic, finely chopped Cook the vegetables for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly until browned. Add this to the casserole dish.

Add and mix well: The rest of the flour mixture 4 c. sliced carrots (about 8 medium) 1 can (14.5 oz.) stewed tomatoes, undrained Put this into the casserole, cover casserole and bake at 350° for 1 hour and 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes or until meat and vegetables are fork tender.

Serves 4-6.

We’ve all heard of Buckeye cookies. This fudge recipe is called Buckeye Fudge. It’s another no-fail recipe. It will turn out for everyone who tries it. Great for kids of all ages to make, too.

BUCKEYE FUDGE Line 9” square pan with foil, then spray with cooking spray. Leave foil longer so there will be handles to help remove the fudge more easily.

In large microwavable bowl, microwave on Medium (50%) power: 3 c. peanut butter chips Microwave at 1 minute and then stir, microwave and stir until the chips are all melted. Stir well after each time until smooth.

Stir in: 1 can (14 oz) sweetened condensed milk (not evaporated milk) 1/2 c. creamy peanut butter 1/3 c. finely chopped cocktail peanuts Mixture will be thick. Press mixture evenly in lined pan. Refrigerate for 30 minutes.

In smaller MW bowl, microwave on High 60-90 seconds or until melted: 1 c. dark chocolate chips 1/2 heavy whipping cream Stir until smooth. Spread evenly over the first layer. Refrigerate for about 2 hours or until chocolate is set. Remove and take the bars out of the pan with the foil ‘handles’. When cutting be very careful not to get foil into the chocolate pieces. Store fudge in the refrigerator.

This is a simple recipe from back in the Depression era but still popular today. Make it in your skillet in a very short time.

POOR MAN’S SKILLET Cook on medium heat until partway done, stirring occasionally: 3 T. olive or veg. oil 3 chopped potatoes 1 chopped onion Add, stir and let warm: 4 T. tomato sauce Add and cook until potatoes are soft: 4 sliced hot dogs (your choice) 1/2 c. water Hint: If you’d like add a veg. like corn, peas, beans etc. Add a bit more tomato sauce and water if needed.

Serves 3-4.

These bars contain pumpkin and nuts for a good tasting and attractive dessert.

PUMPKIN PRALINE DESSERT In medium bowl, beat together until smooth: 1 can (15 oz.) pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix) 1 can (12 oz.) evaporated milk 3 eggs 1 c. sugar 4 tsp. pumpkin pie spice Pour into a 9x13” (sprayed bottom and sides) baking pan.

Sprinkle on top: 1 box regular size yellow cake mix (or spice cake mix) Sprinkle on top: 1-1/2 c. chopped nuts (pecans or walnuts) Pour over everything: 3/4 c. melted butter Bake at 350° for 50-60 minutes or until done (knife inserted in center comes out clean). Cool for at least 30 minute and cut into bars. Serve warm with a dollop of whipped cream sprinkled with some pumpkin pie spice, if desired. Store any leftover bars in the refrigerator.

Tip: Make your own pumpkin pie spice by combining 1 tsp. cinnamon, 1/4 tsp. nutmeg, 1/4 tsp. ginger and 1/2 tsp. cloves. Store in an airtight container.

WEDNESDAY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

25

CHRISTMAS Community Center: 2 pm Christmas Day Dinner

MONDAY

26 Community Closed

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

21

22

23

Community Center: 8 am Coffee Club, 9 am Pool, 9 am Circle of Sisters, 12:30 pm Hand & Foot, 7 pm Alcoholics Anonymous 6:30 pm Bingo at the Amery VFW 7 pm HS Hockey vs.

Highland Park, here 7:15 pm HS Boys Basketball at Clear Lake 7:15 pm HS Girls Basketball at Spooner

Community Center: Closed 7:30 pm John Legut Memorial Cup at the Amery Ice Arena

24

Community Center: 8 am Coffee Club, 9 am Silver Foxes, 10 am Alcoholics Anonymous, 1 pm Bridge, 7 pm Alcoholics Anonymous

28

29

30

31

December 21 - 31

SUNDAY

THURSDAY

CHRISTMAS EVE

TUESDAY

Center:

27

Community Center: 8 am Coffee Club, 9 am Pool, 9:30 am Quilting, 1 pm Wii Games, 6:30 pm 500 Cards 7

Community Center: 8 am Coffee Club, 9 am Silver Foxes, 10 am Alcoholics Anonymous, 1 pm Bridge, 7 pm Alcoholics Anonymous

Community Center: 8 am Coffee Club, 9 am Pool, 12:30 pm Hand & Foot, 7 pm Alcoholics Anonymous 6:30 p.m. Bingo at the Amery VFW

Community Center: 8 am Coffee Club, 9 am Silver Foxes, 8 pm Alcoholics Anonymous

NEW YEAR’S EVE

SPONSORED BY:

Amery • 715-268-7161 Member FDIC

Amery2.25x1.indd 1

For All Your Communications Needs 715-268-7101 3/10/15 11:31 AM

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

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

3B

Amery: Cozy at Christmas The weather outside is . . . blustery, nasty, threatening, maybe even frightening, but inside it’s toasty and safe.

Though I dislike and avoid those trite words, Good Old Days, this is what I felt as a kid growing up in It was a safe and picturesque Growing Amery. community, though not quite Norman up in Rockwell. Too Midwestern. But at least in December, it was all a person Amery could hope for.

Loren Elkin Teaching history to junior highers, we’d talk and read about nostalgia for a few days before Christmas break. This included some good “F” words and other phrases, cozy and comforting terms: family, fire, candles, fireplace, food, fun, trimmed trees, presents, candy, carols, and family customs. For this I often drew on my memories from Amery.

Amery in December included the free movie for kids at the Amery Theater and a bag of candy treats afterward, the huge Christmas tree anchored at the center of Amery’s main intersection, shopping for gifts at Burman’s Ben Franklin and the drug stores, and a beautiful Christmas program at the high

school.

Usually a week before Christmas, Milt Simon would put together a mix of songs for band and choir to entertain the community. This often took place in the big gym, decorated by English teacher Marie Halverson. He’d present a mix of popular Christmas songs and religious carols. It wouldn’t be a concert without the band playing Sleigh Bells, ending with a neighing horse (trumpet) and the crack of a whip (slapstick).

Then smiles galore from the packed gymnasium as they applaud.

The “Real Christmas” I wrote about in my first

book told the story of the Elkin family in Alden Township. They gathered on Christmas eve to talk, eat, and watch the kids recite their church “pieces”, their part of the Christmas story. The smells, how wonderful-- the food, the newly cut pine tree, and farmhouse (good) aromas. For all, a little lutefisk, a few Norwegian phrases, and reminiscing in a safe, inviting atmosphere in that massive old farm house. More on this another time, I’ll save it for next December. If you can locate a copy of my book GROWING UP IN AMERY, you can read it there.

So what does all this mean? At a time of the year when it’s the darkest, sometimes the coldest, and often the bottoming out of the seasons, all we see, smell, and hear adds hope and the distraction of bright lights, music, and unique food. People gathering for the holidays in December isn’t the same as getting together at other times of the year. Christmas is about Christ’s birth, but it’s so much more; I’m sure He would understand.

Write to Loren for an emailing he sends out that contains stories, photos, humor, and trivia, sometimes about Amery—1) Elkfarm Hearth Society as well as the 2) Fort Sedgwick Bugle. Contact Loren at: elkfarm@wctc.net.

Merry Christmas!

Adam Jurisch Montessori

Patten Sweeney Kindergarten Open Christmas Eve 5 a.m.-6 p.m.

Open Christmas Day 7 a.m.-7 p.m.

Cenex/Countryside Cooperative 319 Keller Ave. S, Amery

Macie Warner Grade 1

First Place winner in Montessori in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest Mon.-Fri. 9-6, Sat. 9-4 Closing Dec. 24, 1 p.m.

CLOSED DEC. 25 & 26

AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR • MACHINE SHOP 715-268-7400 Andy and Colleen Orvold, Owners 846 State Road 46, Amery, WI 54001

Gifts for the entire family are available at Chet’s

128 Keller Ave. Amery Phone 715-268-7052

HEARING

HAPPENS IN THE BRAIN

CONNECTIONS

This !

In t s Ju

HAPPEN IN THE HEART

Book an appointment and receive: • Free NEW technology demonstration • Free batteries for 3 years with select technology

715.268.8000 Amery Medical Center AmeryRegional Hospital and Clinic

hudsonhearing.com

Additional Locations:

Hudson Hospital and Clinics Baldwin Area Medical Center New Richmond Westfields Hospital

4B AMERY FREE PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2016 www.theameryfreepress.com

Wisconsin Interstate Park hosts ‘First Day Hike’

Polk-Burnett sponsors another successful Holiday Gift Drive Polk-Burnett employees are making the season bright for local kids with their 11th Annual Holiday Gift Drive. Gifts collected at their Centuria headquarters were delivered to Polk County kids through Operation Christmas. Gifts collected at the Siren branch office will go to Burnett County kids through Interfaith Caregivers. “Thank you to our employees, members and friends for your donations, and Merry Christmas from all of us at Polk-Burnett Electric Cooperative,” said General Manager Steve Stroshane.

McKenzie Braatz Grade 3

Is it too early to contemplate a New Year’s Resolution? Wisconsin Interstate Park has a great idea to start your New Year off by joining them for a “First Day Hike” on January 1, 2017.

The event will include three trails in the park— the St. Croix River, Civilian Conservation Corp Quarry, and Silver Brook. Refreshments will be served in the Ice Age Center. Join them New Year’s Day, 9:00-11:00 a.m. and start the year out on the “right foot!”

Interstate Park is located in St. Croix Falls, Wisconsin, on WI Hwy 35 just ½-mile south of Hwy 8.

Vehicle admission to the park is required during the January 1, 2017 event. For more information call 715-483-3747, visit www.wiparks.net or become a friend on Facebook at Friends of WI Interstate State Park.

Memphis Hamrick Grade 2

Tyler Ellefson Grade 4

Haylee Witt Grade 4

Tori Ellefson Grade 1

Katelin Graski Grade 4

Third Place winner in Grade 4 in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest

Riley Woodbeck Grade 2

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Closing Christmas Eve at 5 p.m.

Closed Christmas Day

Christmas Eve closing at 5 p.m.

Christmas Day closing at 1 p.m.

Closing Christmas Eve at 5 p.m.

Closing Christmas Day at 1 p.m.

Amery Express Experience the Difference at Dick’s Hometown Store LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED River Place Mall, Am,ery Open 7 days a week 6 a.m.-10 p.m.

PHONE 715-268-7513

210 Keller Ave. South, Amery Phone 715-268-8350

YOUR FULL LINE GROCERY STORE Super Store, Everything In One Stop 210 Keller Ave., Amery Downtown Amery Phone 715-268-5872

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

5B

Reminder: No ice is safe ice; ask locals for conditions

Girl Scouts Delivering Warmth From the Amery Service Unit, 4th Grade Girl Scout Troop 56021 and 9th grade Girl Scout Troop 52992 made and delivered tie blankets for the children at Children’s Hospital of MN St. Paul Campus. The two troops worked together for 2 meetings to cut and tie these soft, fuzzy blankets. Top row: Carmen Klugow, Olivia Pettersen, Lydia Monson, Emma Wolf, Amanda Edwards, Carly Vincent, Laura Kastanek. Bottom row: Alexandra Edwards, Alessandra Hayes, Maya Valley, Maren Dodge, Kaylee Burstad, Marley Cran (missing from the photo are Ashlyn Majeske, Izzy Iwaszko, Olivia Chaves, and Alexis Repka). Troop 56021 is lead by Jean Edwards and Troop 52992 is lead by Jana Kastanek.

STEAM TEAM Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning IICRC Certified Master Textile Cleaner Deep Restorative Cleaning Scotchguard Truck Mounted Equipment

JOHN A. HUMPAL 25 years experience

800-553-3677 or 715-632-2109

Need a High Efficient Furnace or Central Air Conditioning?

Call

Fall Electric Clear Lake

715-263-2121

www.steamteamcleaning.com

Violin Lessons

ALL AGES Beginning to Advanced Teacher in Amery since 1988 Graduate of American Conservatory of Music, Chicago.

Member of American String Teachers Association

Janette Cysewski 715-268-6610

MADISON -- Wisconsin again is witnessing winter's annual sudden and severe arrival, dropping snow and temperatures to form early-season ice on ponds, lakes and rivers. The Department of Natural Resources reminds winter enthusiasts that ice should never be considered safe and early season ice conditions varies from waterbody to waterbody.

Outdoor enthusiasts - cross-country skiers, ice fishers, hikers and snowmobilers - are urged to ask local businesses and sporting organizations about the area's ice conditions before they go on the ice and be prepared if they do venture out.

The recent storms have brought sub-zero temperatures into the state, which are just starting the process of forming ice on lakes, flowages and ponds.

The DNR does not monitor ice conditions, making it individual's responsibility to learn those conditions. Good sources of local ice conditions include bait store operators, fishing clubs around lakes, ice fishers and snowmobile clubs. These are the places locally most likely to have the most current information about the lakes and areas.

The ice conditions on any lake can vary from location to location. Remember, even though it may look thick on the surface, moving water from streams, rivers and springs can cause ice to form

J&S Heating & Cooling

unevenly.

People who do venture out on the ice should: Dress warmly in layers and consider wearing a life jacket or vest.

Not go alone. Head out with friends or family. Take a cell phone and make sure someone knows where you are and when you are expected to return.

Know before you go. Don't travel in areas you are not familiar and don't travel at night or during reduced visibility.

Avoid inlets, outlets or narrow that may have current that can thin the ice.

Look for clear ice, which is generally stronger than ice with snow on it or bubbles in it.

Carry some basic safety gear: ice claws or picks, a cellphone in a waterproof bag or case, a life jacket and length of rope, and a spud bar to check ice while walking to new areas.

Wear creepers attached to boots to prevent slipping on clear ice and take extra mittens or gloves so you always have a dry pair.

If you go through the ice: Carry a set of ice picks in your pocket to help you climb out of the ice hole.

Once out of the water, do not stand up.

Rather, walk on your forearms until the majority of your body is on solid surface.

Try to remain calm, call for help and take steps to get out of the water as soon as possible.

Quality Service and Installation on Forced Air & AC units Gas piping

BOOKING NOW FOR SPRING OPENINGS

Jeff Young, Amery 715-529-1419 cell 715-948-2229 fax

715-558-6299

FREE ESTIMATES

STUMP GRINDING AND REMOVING

Steel Roofs

Call for your Free Estimate

800-282-8103 • 715-417-0303

Reliable Professional Insured Free Estimates Light Landscaping

Piper Brown Kindergarten

Paige Ralidak Grade 4

Second Place Winner in Grade 4 in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest

n’s o s Sea tings! e Gre

Merry Christmas from . . .

Closed Dec. 24, 25, 26 & 31, and Jan. 1 & 2

131 Keller Ave. North, Amery, WI 715-268-4441

127 Keller Ave. North, Amery, WI 715-268-9164

1101 Cornwall Ave., Amery 715-268-7676 www.amerychevrolet.com

Closed Dec. 24 Normal Hours Dec. 26 & 31 and Jan. 2

6B AMERY FREE PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2016 www.theameryfreepress.com

AMERY AREA COMMUNITY CENTER

Activities and events scheduled Although the weather outside is frightful, we have lots of fun activities and events scheduled to keep you warm in our beautiful Community Center.

We have a new intergenerational program which we are very excited about!

Each month, Miss Amans will bring her 4th grade students to visit the Community Center to interact with our members. They will come prepared with a variety of activities and their first visit is scheduled for Monday, December 19th at 10:15am and their next visit will take place on January 18th at 10:15am. We want to encourage any of our members that can, to attend.

Join us for a fun painting party on Friday, Jan-

uary 13th at 6pm. We provide all of the materials and each painter will go home with their own beautiful painting. The cost is $30, snacks will be provided and adult beverages will be available for purchase. Please make your checks out to “Brush Strokes Paint Party” and drop them off or put them in the mail to be registered by January 9th.

On Monday, January 23rd at 6pm we will be hosting a sign painting class. You do not have to be crafty or creative to participate. The cost is $25 and you can register

by January 19th . Please make checks out to Lisa Moggo and mail them or drop them off at the Center.

ADRC will present a seminar on Long Term Care Planning on January 30th at 1pm. They will discuss such topics as: starting the conversation, putting your affairs and important papers in order, and many other subjects. This seminar is free and open to the public. Register by calling 715-268-6605.

Looking for a place to enjoy Christmas Day with a nice meal and the company of many wonderful people? Come to the Center on December 25th at 2pm to enjoy our Annual Christmas Day Dinner hosted by Michele Gullickson, Arthur Logue and crew. The first 96 people through the door will receive a Christmas Gift! This is a free

December

will donation and open to the public.

Tuesday pool winners were Gary Snelling in first, Mary Fisher took second, Paul Seidel placed third, Jim Webb took fourth place and Val Hansen went home with the consolation prize.

Thursday pool winners were Gary Snelling in first, Mary Fisher in second, Jerry Fisher placed third, Paul Seidel came in fourth and Roger Lovald won the consolation prize.

Monday bridge winners were Ruth Ann Riley in first and Joann Hallquist in second.

Congratulations to all!

Have a safe and wonderful week…..Susan Shachtman, Assistant Director

Season’s Greetings!

Third Place winner in Grade 1 in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest

FT Die Cutters FT & PT Electronic Assemblers First Shift-Flexible Start/End Time Voluntary Benefits Available Pay BOE

APPLY TODAY! www.gdsiswitches.com Send resumes to Cheri at richardsc@gdsiswitches.com

Rosy cheeks and tingling nose, Compared to sand burning the feet and toes, We have four seasons here, many ways to keep up the cheer, Maybe I sound like sour grapes, trying to share the southern capes, We all can’t pick up and go south to roam, Just face the weather and stay at home, Before long spring will be here, We feel excited by facing another year, December is filled with exciting times, I'll stay and forgot about the southern climes.

Larry is a poet laureate of Amery Wisconsin.

Typed by Ashley Johnson

from all of us at Bremer Bank

Alexis Repka Grade 4

Hayden Madison Grade 4

Help Us Make a Difference!

Seeking GDSI Team members! www.gdsiswitches.com

So we'll stay and face the cold, maybe go south when we get old, Skiing, skating, winter sports to do, we can’t forget the fun of the snow too,

Happy Holidays

Gavin Harris Grade 4

Lars McElrath Grade 1

The year is winding down, December is coming around, Cold winds and snow are too, warm climes are hopes for the new,

Holiday Hours: Christmas Eve: Lobby: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Drive up: 8:00 a.m.- 12:00 p.m.

December 26: Closed New Year’s Eve: Lobby: 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Drive up: 8:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Alexandra Edwards Grade 4

Closed Dec. 24 and 25, Dec. 31 and Jan. 1

January 2: Closed

Rollyn P. Lee, DDS Heather Marks, DDS 1030 River Place Drive Amery 715-268-2103 Mon.-Thurs. 8-5 Fri. 7-4

Amery • 715-268-7161 800-908-BANK (2265) Bremer.com Member FDIC

HolidayHoursAmery.indd 1

12/16/16 10:32 AM

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

7B

Vibrant Health Earns Family Friendly Workplace™ Certification Vibrant Health Family Clinics recently received silver level certification as a Family Friendly Workplace™ from the United Way St. Croix Valley’s Success by 6 initiative. This certification recognizes businesses that actively invest in programs and practices that support employees and their families.

The family friendly practices Vibrant Health Family Clinics was recognized for included flexible work schedules (to accommodate family needs), partially paid family health insurance, generous employer contributions to an Health Savings Account and offering a flexible spending account which includes a dependent care account. The clinic also provides family-friendly play areas and resources for patients and employees regarding early childhood development.

“We know that a child’s brain development in the first three years of life is critical to social and emotional well-being over a lifetime,” said Vibrant Health pediatrician Dr. Amber Morgan. “We aim to not only optimize this important developmental period for the families we serve, but also for our staff/employees and their families.”

Family Friendly Workplace™ is a program of United Way St. Croix Valley’s Success by 6, developed specifically for employers in Pierce, Polk and St. Croix Counties. Businesses can achieve certification by earning points for family friendly practices. There are three certification levels, bronze, silver and gold. Certification fees paid by the business support educational programs and service delivery for early childhood development.

“Policies that promote work-life balance increase employee productivity and loyalty as well as having a positive impact on families,” said Success By 6 Engagement Specialist Lara Otsuka. “With certification fees supporting early childhood programs that in turn help to develop a solid future workforce, we really see this as a win for businesses, families and the community. We commend Vibrant Health for championing families and early childhood programs in the St. Croix Valley.”

For more information on Family Friendly Workplace™ certification go to FamilyFriendlyWorkplace. org.

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year!

Paige Komanec Grade 4

Miley Brotzel Grade 2

First Place Winner in Grade 4 in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest

Hwy. 46 North, Amery 715-268-8161

Closed Dec. 23, 24, 25 & 26 Closing at noon on Dec. 30th Closed Dec. 31, jan. 1 & 2

Jenna Van Someren Grade 3

Open Dec. 24, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

CLOSED DEC. 25 Open Dec. 31, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Open Jan. 1, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Dental Arts Holiday Hours

Closed Monday, Dec. 26 and Monday, Jan. 2

Dental Arts 404 Wisconsin Ave., Amery 715-268-7177

900 S. Keller Ave., Amery (across from River Place Mall) Phone 715-268-8149

CLEARANCE CENTER 201 N. Keller Ave., Amery Phone 715-268-2131

8B AMERY FREE PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2016 www.theameryfreepress.com

BIRTHS St. Croix Regional Medical Center, St. Croix Falls Ellyana Harper Zart, 4 lbs. 13 ozs., born on December 2 to Darbi Young and Isaac Zart of Webster.

Nora Ann Donovan, 8 lbs. 4 ozs., born on December 2 to Jessica Koran and Joseph Donovan of North Branch, MN. Nolan Brent Mathson, 8 lbs. 1 oz., born on December 7 to Jessica and Van Mathson of St. Croix Falls.

Gregor Scott Ford, 8 lbs. 11 ozs., born on December 11 to Trisha and Justin Ford of Siren.

Jessa Lee Hougdahl, 7 lbs. 5 ozs., born on December 13 to Toshia Johnson and Kevin Hougdahl of Osceola.

Rudi Ivabelle Karsten, 8 lbs. 3 ozs., born on December 14 to Tina and Ryan Karsten of Siren.

Amelie Rae Schmidt, 8 lbs. 4 ozs., born on December 14 to Ceanna and Adam Schmidt of Grantsburg.

Theodore James Clark, 4 lbs. 15 ozs., born on December 15 to Melinda and Kevin Clark of Frederic.

Spreading Holiday Cheer Members of the Tuesday Night Ladies Bowling League at Spare Time in Turtle Lake donated various food items and some cash to be donated to the Turtle Lake Food Pantry.

Katie Lester Grade 4

General Contractors Steel • Commercial • Residential New & Remodel Construction P.O. Box 152 702 Clayton Ave. W. Clayton, WI 54004 Phone 715-948-2811 Fax 715-948-2456 www.berghammerbuilders.com

Merry Christmas Katelyn Osero Grade 2

AmTec 241 Venture Drive Amery, WI 54001 Phone 715-268-8146

Happy Holidays Carson Marciniak Kindergarten

Hailey Marciniak Grade 4

from . . .

Gerry, Kim, Dan, Earl, Sandra, Nancy, Paula, Alan, Ralph

Publishers’ Printing Service, Inc. Amery

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

9B

ARNELL MEMORIAL HUMANE SOCIETY

Adoptable pets are ready for “Home for the Holidays” Kittens have the magic adorable ticket. While some are able to remain indifferent toward a full grown cat, a kitten never fails to steal your heart. They have the advantage of proportionally large round eyes that draw us in. They are curious and adventurous, traveling in hops, skips and jumps for our entertainment.

Kittens come in a variety of feline colors, hair length and personalities. They can be a chatty tabby with chirps and mews and are happy with simple toys.

A paper bag, string or even Christmas wrapping paper and bows will keep them busy for hours.

Kittens are even adorable when they sleep. And this may be on your chest.

For double the fun, adopting two kittens at the same time is highly recommended.

There are seven baby 2-month old kittens and four young 3-4 month old kittens available at Arnell Humane Society this holiday season. Our featured kitten this week is Winter. She and her siblings, Cornelius, Hermie and Mistel-

toe are nine weeks old. All are petite bundles of fluff.

Winter is a short hair Black and White Tuxedo with mittens, as is her sister Misteltoe. Brothers Cornelius and Hermie are short hair Blue Grey and White.

They are nine weeks old. The boys are neutered and female kittens are adoptable with a redeemable spay deposit. Remember, two are better than one.

Kringle, Ralphie and Tinsel are 10

weeks old. They are soft Grey Tabbies and Ralphie is Grey and White. If you are looking for a kitten with extra toes, Poinsettia is for you. She is polydactyl on her front paws and sports a Brown Tabby coat with Auburn highlights.

Sugarplum has a black coat as soft as mink. She is spayed and five months old.

Oakie is a young man, also 5 months, of action. He wears a Medium length Tuxedo coat. Oakie has white mittens and long white eyebrow and face whiskers.

Winter and all of our adoptable kittens are ready to make your holiday season, jolly good fun.

Adult cats Rachel and Midge are mature versions of these furball kittens. A well behaved, quiet purring cat in your lap is sure to settle your nerves and make the moment bright.

We are thrilled to be able to report that two long term Arnell pets found their new homes last week. Both came to the shelter as strays in July. Black and White female cat, September, will be adding her charm and stature to a home with another cat and a happy couple.

Having recovered from his leg surgery, Milo, the wire hair Jack Russell Terrier mix found the perfect, active home complete with a walker, a runner and three other dogs to play with – in the country.

He will be in heaven there, hunting varmints, helping with chores, chasing the wind and exercising his new owners.

We are over-the-moon with his recovery and new life.

All of our adoptable pets, cats and dogs, can be seen on our website, ARNELLHUMANE.ORG. They all need homes. “Home for the Holidays” means more to a shelter pet.

If you are unable to add another pet to your home but want to support our work for the homeless animals from your community, please consider making a yearend, tax-deductible donation to Arnell Memorial Humane Society.

Your gift will help us help them. Have a wonderful Christmas. Arnell Memorial Humane Society, 185 Griffin St East, Amery, WI 54001, 715 268-7387.

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 800642-1336 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., 7 p.m., Thursday 7 p.m., Friday 8 p.m., Saturday 10 a.m., Sunday 7 p.m. at Amery Community Center, 608 Harriman Ave. S. 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 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 Regional Medical Center, BirthDay Suites Waiting Room. Join at any time. No charge.

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 info. 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.

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.

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 - domestic violence (DV), sexual assault (SA) and the children’s group are every Monday (DV) and Tuesday (SA) beginning at 6 p.m. Call CRA to find out more info and for the location. Burnett County call CRA for info (the day and time will be changing). For more information call CRA 715-825-4414 or the 24 hour crisis line 1-800-261-7233.

All groups and services are free of charge.

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 Amnerican 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 Professonals 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.

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 west 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/sup-

port 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.

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.

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 First Baptist church, Amery, Mondays from 1:30-2:30 p.m. Contact Jen at 715-268-5408 with questions.

MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) is a group for moms and their kids. Every mom who is pregnant or has children 5 years of age and under is welcomed, accepted, and challenged to meet her potential. Better moms make a better world! For more info go to clmops@hotmail.com and call 715-263-2665 for location/dates/ time.

NA meetings. There’s hope. Every Saturday 6 p.m. St. Croix Casino & Hotel, Turtle Lake. Room 121. Everyone welcome to attend. Info call Pat at 715-553-2859.

Overeaters Anonymous. Tuesdays 10 a.m. at St. Croix Alano Club, across from hospital in St. Croix Falls.

715-825-3416.

PEPTalk - P(arents)E(ncouraging)P(arents)... exists to encourage, support, and build up a community of homeschool families in Polk County, Wisconsin.

Through our regular activities we provide opportunities for families to come together to enrich their students’ learning experiences with special classes, field trips, play dates, and celebrations. We facilitate regular time together which provides social, academic and character-building activities for our children while parents encourage and support each other through the homeschooling journey. We also strive to serve our surrounding communities through projects that emphasize selflessness and provide opportunities for parents and children to use their gifts and talents to serve others. 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 Nancy 715-646-1464 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.

Veteran’s Support Group. 1st Tuesday monthly 5:30-6:30 p.m. at Amery VFW, 130 Wisconsin Ave. Spouses/significant other also welcome and encouraged to attend. Contact Dan 715-768-0679, Amanda 715-429-0467 or Dianna 715-607-1898. Sponsored by Amery VFW Post 7929 and American Legion Post 169.

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..

10B AMERY FREE PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

Public Health reports secondhand ‘vaping’ emissions are not harmless On December 8th 2016 in a landmark report, the Office of the Surgeon General affirmed the growing body of research about the health hazards of electronic smoking devices such as e-cigarettes and other vaping devices.

"E-Cigarette Use Among Youth and Young Adults: A Report of the Surgeon General" is a call to action for governments and institutions to close gaps in smokefree policies that leave people exposed to secondhand smoke or secondhand e-cigarette emissions.

“Secondhand aerosol from electronic smoking devices is not harmless water vapor,” said Surgeon General Dr. Vivek H. Murthy at the press conference announcing the report. “The aerosol created by e-cigarettes can contain ingredients that are harmful and potentially harmful to the public’s health, including: nicotine; ultrafine particles; flavorings such as diacetyl, a chemical linked to serious lung disease; volatile organic compounds such as benzene, which is found in car exhaust; and heavy metals, such as nickel, tin, and lead. State and local leaders should take action to address e-cigarette use and exposure to secondhand aerosol by including e-cigarettes into smokefree policies and laws, preventing access to e-cigarettes by youth, price and tax policies, retail licensure, regulation of e-cigarette marketing likely to attract youth, and edu-

cational initiatives targeting youth and young adults."

This report reaffirms why Americans for Nonsmokers’ Rights (ANR) has long advocated for protecting nonsmokers from exposure to secondhand e-cigarette aerosol in venues like airplanes, workplaces, and other smokefree spaces.

“Regardless of the debate over whether these products serve a role in tobacco smoking cessation, there is simply no need to use them inside shared air spaces where others are then subject to the hazardous secondhand emissions,” said Cynthia Hallett, MPH, President and CEO of ANR. “E-cigarettes create a new form of indoor air pollution and should be used in ways that do not negatively impact the health of nonsmokers.”

Today, more than 566 localities and 10 states now specifically prohibit the use of e-cigarettes and other vaping devices in all smokefree spaces, and it is now a standard component of smokefree indoor air laws.

E-cigarette industry proponents, including tobacco companies, aggressively lobby to allow use of their products inside smokefree environments. Their goal is not public health, but rather to maximize profits by enabling product consumption inside otherwise smokefree environments and to create a new generation that is addicted to nicotine.

While smoking rates continue to decline

across the U.S., the rates of e-cigarette use are increasing among youth and young adults, as confirmed by today’s Surgeon General’s Report.

Research shows that e-cigarettes and vaping devices produce high levels of harmful ultra-fine particles that can damage the respiratory system. E-cigarette proponents may falsely claim that the chemical aerosol emitted by these products is completely harmless and only contains “water vapor.” In fact, these products produce a dense visible aerosol of liquid sub-micron droplets consisting of glycols, nicotine, volatile organic compounds, and carcinogens (e.g., formaldehyde, metals like cadmium, lead, & nickel, and nitrosamines).

While some may believe the product is “safer” than a conventional cigarette, the use of and exposure to e-cigarettes certainly isn't harmless or risk-free.

Even substances used to flavor e-cigarette liquids that might be safe for eating have not been tested for safety as a heated, inhaled aerosol.

E-cigarettes and vaping devices are unregulated – there is simply no way to know what is in one device vs. the thousands of others. They are not one standardized chemical product, but thousands of different ones - many of which are produced off-shore, then

bought and sold with no requirement for ingredient disclosure or quality control. These devices can also be used to vape a wide range of substances from nicotine e-juice and hash oil to flakka (a synthetic drug). Some devices even have multiple chambers for vaping different products.

The Surgeon General’s Report confirms that we have enough science to make an intelligent decision that secondhand aerosol from electronic smoking devices is not harmless and that it is a new source of air pollution. Communities and states should take the opportunity to protect public health from exposure to secondhand aerosol by prohibiting the use of electronic smoking devices in all smokefree spaces.

For more information: E-cigarette fires and explosions: http://www.no-smoke.org/pdf/dangers-of-e-cigarettes.pdf For more on local tobacco prevention control efforts: •Visit the W3TFL website: www.W3TFL.org •Like us on Facebook: https://www. facebook.com/W3TFL •Quitting smoking : www.wiquitline. org or Call 1-800-QUIT NOW •Smoke Free Housing: www.wismokefreehousing.com

Merry Christmas

Anna Tjepkes Grade 2

Matthew Danielson Grade 1

First Place winner in Grade 2 in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest

Nilssen’s Market Has All Your Holiday Needs Second Place Winner in Grade 1 in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest Open Dec. 24, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.

Closed Christmas Day, Dec. 25 Open Dec. 31 and Jan. 1, 9 a.m.-9 p.m.

“Western Wisconsin’s Largest Variety of Fine Wines and Spirits at Discount Prices!”

Amery Discount Liquor 1015 Cornwall Ave., Amery OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 9 A.M.-9 P.M.

From our Smokehouse we have our Famous Smoked Hams and Turkeys

ALSO FOR THE HOLIDAY WE HAVE: Lutefisk, Herring, Smoked Fish & Swedish Potato Sausage, Made to Order Fruit Baskets, Cheese and Meat Trays, Veggie Trays and Cheese & Sausage Gift Boxes!

Don’t forget we have Gift Cards too!

CALL TO RESERVE ONE TODAY!

We will be closing at 4 p.m. Christmas Eve and will be closed on Christmas Day

Nilssen’s Market •ATM Inside •Postage Stamps •Kemps Dairy Products

265 NW 5th St., Clear Lake • Phone 715-263-2513 Family Owned Since 1903 Check out our weekly ad at: nilssensfoods.com

STORE HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 7 a.m.-8 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

Relay For Life teams now forming in New Richmond The American Cancer Society Relay For Life event is a life-changing experience that gives everyone in communities across the globe a chance to Celebrate the lives of people who have battled cancer, Remember loved ones lost, and Fight Back against the disease. Each year, more than 4 million people in over 20 countries take part in this global phenomenon and raise much-needed funds and awareness to save lives from cancer.

The Relay For Life of New Richmond encourages anyone with a connection to cancer to form a team and join us in the fight against cancer. Forming a team is easy! Teams are forming now! Our Kick Off meeting, which provides an oppor-

tunity to find out more about Relay For Life will be held February 27, 2017 6:30 pm at the Westfield’s Hospital & Clinic Conference Center.

Contact Patty Berger at 715-2220376 or Betty Swanson 715-248-3062 or email them at newrichmondrelayforlife@gmail.com for more information.

The American Cancer Society is a global grassroots force of more than three million volunteers saving lives and fighting for every birthday threatened by every cancer in every community. As the largest voluntary health organization, the Society's efforts have contributed to a 20 percent decline in cancer death rates in the U.S. since 1991, and a 50 percent drop in

smoking rates. Thanks to our progress, nearly 14 million Americans who have had cancer and countless more who have avoided it will celebrate more birthdays this year.

As we mark our 100th birthday in 2013, we're determined to finish the fight against cancer. We're finding cures as the nation’s largest private, not-for-profit investor in cancer research, ensuring people facing cancer have the help they need and continuing the fight for access to quality health care, lifesaving screenings, clean air, and more.

For more information, to get help, or to join the fight, call us anytime, day or night, at 1-800-227-2345 or visit cancer.org.

11B

POLK COUNTY SENIOR DINING MEAL SITES Everyone age 60 plus is invited for lunch. Meals are served Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday.

Check your site for specific serving time. Suggested donation is $4 per meal. Please call the meal site 24 hours in advance for a reservation.

Amery 715-268-6818.

Centuria 715-540-2022.

Frederic 715-327-8623.

Luck 715-472-8300.

Sites closed on Wednesday.

Thursday, Dec. 22— Beef noodle casserole, carrot coins, WW dinner roll, orange.

Friday, Dec. 23— Meal sites closed.

Monday, Dec. 26— Meal sites closed.

Tuesday, Dec. 27— Meatloaf, garlic mashed potatoes, beets, WW dinner roll, peach crisp and topping.

Alison Emerson Grade 1

Rian Wallberg Grade 1

First Place winner in Grade 1 in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest

Closed Dec. 24, 25 & 26 and Jan. 1 & 2

Season’s Greetings from . . .

Amery Area Public Library

Cattle Connection Keller Ave., Amery, WI Phone 715-268-2629

225 Scholl Ct. • Amery • Phone 268-9340

Merry Christmas!

Lifestyle Choices for Seniors…

“Your Life, Your Style”

e... g her n i v i l o!

I love will to u o y and

Jacey Smith Grade 3

HOLIDAY HOURS: Dec. 24, 6 a.m.-7 p.m.

Dec. 25, 7 a.m.-11 p.m.

Dec. 31, 6 a.m.-11 p.m.

Jan. 1, 7 a.m.-11 p.m.

800-542-4243 www.countrysideph.com 321 Wisconsin Drive • New Richmond, WI 54017

FREEDOM VALU CENTERS 237 Keller Ave. S., Amery 715-268-8957

“I moved here July 2015 when I could no longer manage on my own. My family was relieved that I was safe. CCH is a friendly, homey atmosphere and the staff is excellent.”

Ramona was involved with the formation of CCH she said “the dream was to connect the Ramo na Paulso on, hospital, nursing home, assisted 91 Ye ars Young living and exercise facility to create a complete wellness environment” she takes pride in her involvement to see the dream fullled.

Christian Community Home of Osceola 2650 65th Ave., Osceola, WI 54020 • 715-294-1100 www.cchosceola.org

Our Campus includes:

24-Hour Skilled Nursing • Assisted Living Apartments Transitional / Short-term Rehabilitation Call today to learn more or to schedule a tour!

12B AMERY FREE PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

Wisconsin sees 200 percent increase in drug-related traffic crashes MADISON, Wis. – Last year, 149 people were killed in drug-related traffic crashes in Wisconsin. This is a nearly a 200 percent increase over the previous decade, according to Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) statistics.

To help combat this deadly crisis, the Wisconsin Department of Justice (DOJ) and WisDOT have teamed up to produce new TV and radio public service announcements that warn of the dangers of drugged driving.

Premiered at a news conference in Madison today, the TV and radio messages are part of DOJ’s “Dose of Reality” campaign to combat prescription drug abuse and WisDOT’s “Zero In Wisconsin” effort to prevent traffic crashes. The ad, titled, “Drugged Driving,” compares the dangers of driving under the influence of prescription drugs to the dangers of driving under the influence of alcohol. The TV spot may be viewed on YouTube.

“The Dose of Reality campaign has been raising awareness about prescription drug abuse and correcting the myths surrounding this epidemic,” said Attorney Gen-

eral Brad Schimel. “The myth that prescription drugs are totally safe because they are prescribed by doctors is just not true. The dose of reality is driving under the influence of prescription drugs is just as dangerous as driving under the influence of alcohol. I am grateful for the chance to team up with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and look forward to working together to prevent injuries and deaths on Wisconsin roads.”

WisDOT Secretary Mark Gottlieb said, “In addition to illegal drugs, the overuse and abuse of prescription medications, especially when combined with alcohol, severely impairs driving ability and judgment. Drugged drivers are in grave danger of killing or injuring themselves and innocent victims.

Law enforcement officers have extensive training and experience in identifying drivers impaired by alcohol and use many of those same procedures to identify drugged drivers. With our collaboration with the Wisconsin Department of Justice, we are striving to prevent drugged driving through effective education and enforcement efforts.”

DOJ and WisDOT advise everyone to be aware of the following points regarding prescription drug abuse and drugged driving: •The serious legal and financial penalties for a drugged driving arrest are the same as drunken driving arrests.

•Do not mix drugs and alcohol.

•Report impaired drivers to law enforcement by calling 911.

•Take prescription medications only as prescribed to you.

•Store prescription medications safely and securely.

•Dispose of unused prescriptions properly and promptly.

•Heed the warning labels on prescription drugs and over-the-counter remedies about the drugs’ effects on driving.

•Four out of five heroin addicts started with the abuse of prescription pain killers.

•More than 70 percent of people abusing painkillers get them through friends or relatives.

Prescription painkillers are involved with more overdose deaths than heroin and cocaine combined.

Garrett Beauvais Grade 4

The holiday season is the perfect time to say to our members and friends.

We wish you a warm and bright New Year.

800-421-0283

Reagan Thompson Grade 3

CHET’S HOLIDAY HOURS Friday, Dec. 23, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 24, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 25, closed Monday, Dec. 26, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 27, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 28, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 29, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 30, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 31, 8 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 1, 10 a.m.-12 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 2, 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

thank you

Madisyn Heacock Grade 2

We Wish You A Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

From all of us at Chet Johnson Drug, Johnson Drug @ Amery Hospital and Ellie’s Ice Cream & Coffee

ELLIE’S HOLIDAY HOURS Friday, Dec. 23, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 24, 7 a.m.-2 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 25, closed Monday, Dec. 26, 7 a.m.-9 p.m.

Tuesday, Dec. 27, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

Wednesday, Dec. 28, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

Thursday, Dec. 29, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

Friday, Dec. 30, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

Saturday, Dec. 31, 6 a.m.-5 p.m.

Sunday, Jan. 1, 8 a.m.-5 p.m.

Monday, Jan. 2, 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

Closed Dec. 25 and Jan. 1

204 Keller Avenue N. • P.O. Box 17 Amery, WI 54001 Phone 715-268-8121

265 East Griffin St. Amery, WI 54001

Specializing in Old-Fashioned Ice Cream Treats and Coffee Downtown Amery next to Chet’s

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

13B

Solstice Chase Fat Bike Race Brings Over 200 to St. Croix Falls ST. CROIX FALLS— Just over 200 fat bike racers took on the challenging Wooly Mountain Bike trail system, one of Polk County’s premier outdoor recreation facilities, Sat., Dec. 17.

The forth annual Solstice Chase Fat Bike race, had competitors from Wisconsin, Minnesota, Michigan, Iowa, Illinois, Oregon and Ontario, Canada, in two tough races, one 42 kilometers long and the other 21 kilometers, at the 2017 season’s first regional fat bike race.

With four inches of new fluffy snow the night before, the course was soft and slow.

Racers got their money’s worth, and laughed at the “dangerous” weather conditions predicted by the Twin Cities media.

The 2017 Great Lakes Fat Bike Series will have 7 races spread over the Midwest states of Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Michigan, with the final

and Charles Thompson, Amery.

Complete results are available at: www.gopherstateevents.com

race, the Fat Bike Birkie, in Cable, WI, in early March, when the Fat Bike World Champions of 2017 will be decided. More information on the series is at: www.greatlakesfatbikeseries.com SOLSTICE CHASE 2017 PODIUM RESULTS 42K Men’s race: 1—Cole House, Oneda, WI 2—Jeff Hall, Farmington, MN 3—Jeffery Young, Monticello, MN 42k Women’s race: 1— Jenna Rinehart, Mankato, MN 2—April Morgan, Hopkins, MN 3—Sonia

Merry Christmas

Pond, Bloomington, MN 21K Men’s race: 1— Nicholas Hard 2—Daniel Neitz, Plymouth, MN 3— Brian Headlee, New Richmond, WI 21K Women’s race: 1— Patty Bobzin, Dresser, WI 2—Erika Pond, St. Louis Park, MN 3—Ridge Pidde, Bloomington, MN Local racers included: Greg Atkinson, Frederic. Chad Christiansen and Shawn Minor, Luck.

Patty Bobzin, Katie Weinberg, Therese Durkin, and Lisa Thanig, Dresser. Cory Pratt and Jeremy Buberl, Osceola.

Dan Campion, Danbury

Fat bikes are a relatively new version of the couple hundred year old bicycle. They are an evolution of the now 30+ year old mountain bike, combining the mountain bike’s low gearing, that allows climbing steep hills, with very wide (4 inches), soft, low pressure tires that float over trail surfaces even a mountain bike would sink into. A new world of winter biking has been made possible with the fat bike, from icy roads to trails that previously have been impossible to ride. Like everything else, when the first one was built, it was fun, when the second one was built, there was a race.

For more information on area fat biking opportunities: www.cyclovaxc. com and woolybikeclub. blogspot.com.

Merry Christmas Abbie Sarsland Kindergarten

CENTRAL AUTO Central LLC Auto & Towing, 715-268-6681 & Towing, LLC

Amery • Clayton • 715-268-6681 CENTRAL AUT Clear Lake Amery • Clayton • Clear Lake &70th Towing, 560 70th Ave., 560 Ave., CTH J & JJ LL

Merry Christmas

Amery Clayton • Clear Lake CTH J &• JJ

•TUNE-UPS •BRAKES

Mateo Aizpurua Kindergarten

560 70th Ave., CTH J & JJ •COLLISION REPAIR •TIRES •DEER DAMAGE •TOWIN

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Within 30 miles of Amery, Clayton or Clear Lak We Tow For Free If We Do The Work (Mechanical Repair Over $150)

715-268-6681

WE WILL HELP COVER YOUR DEDUCTIBLES

Warm Wishes from . . .

Park Lakes & Land Realty Here’s hoping this Christmas finds you surrounded by your loved ones and the warmth of home and health Luciana Aizpurua Grade 4

Jaxson Cran Grade 1

4 DAY COUPON

Buy 2 items get the 3rd item FREE Coupon good Dec. 21- 24, 2016 only Open Dec. 24, 9-1

Downtown Threads

the style that fits you STORE HOURS: Tues.-Fri. 10 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m.

Closed Monday

109 Maple St. E • Amery, WI • 715-268-8200 GIFT CERTIFICATES

Mark Kopp

Cary Dean

Char Sunde

Joel Sunde

Closed Dec. 24th and 26th

Family Eye Clinic Dr. Daniel Satterlund OPTOMETRIST 120 Keller Ave. N, Amery 715-268-9010

Thanks for a great year!

638 Keller Ave., Amery

715-268-9442

14B AMERY FREE PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2016 www.theameryfreepress.com

Wisconsin FFA Foundation seeks candidates to fill open positions –Executive Director and Operations Manager that growth we are given new opportunities to better support our student-members," says Amber Keller, Wisconsin FFA Foundation Board President. “We are excited to welcome two individuals who will bring new perspectives and ideas to our team while advancing our strategies and overall mission.”

Candidates are asked to submit a cover letter, resume and contact information for three references to the board’s Executive Committee via apply@wisconsinffafoundation.org or via mail to Wisconsin FFA Foundation, Attn: Executive Committee, 1241 John Q. Hammons Drive, Suite 200, Madison, WI 53717. The application deadline is December 12, 2016.

The Wisconsin FFA Foundation, a 501 (c)(3) organization, unites individuals, organizations and companies who share a common interest in the advancement of agriculture and community leadership through FFA. You can support today’s FFA members by supporting the programs that have been core tenets of the FFA: proficiency awards, career development events, state FFA degrees, sectional leadership workshops, scholarships, chapter awards, agri-science fair, state FFA convention and state officer support. Learn more about the Wisconsin FFA Foundation and sponsorship opportunities by visiting www. wisconsinffafoundation.org.

MADISON, Wis.– The Wisconsin FFA Foundation is now accepting applications for a full-time Executive Director and a full-time Operations Manager. It seeks candidates with strong organizational and communication skills with the ability to work independently on multiple projects and deadlines.

The Wisconsin FFA Foundation builds resources through the development of partnerships that support the Wisconsin FFA mission of premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agricultural education. There are three staff positions that maintain finances and coordinate all fund development efforts including corporate and individual donor outreach, direct mail, golf outings, and state convention activities. In addition, they plan and execute outgoing communications by website, newsletters, email, social media, faceto-face meetings as well as coordination with the Foundation’s board of directors and Wisconsin’s Team Ag Ed. The Executive Director leads this successful team by being client-focused, entrepreneurial-minded, and a strategic thought leader. The Operations Manager maintains attention to detail with donor communications, information management, and financial reporting.

Position descriptions for both roles may be found at http://bit.ly/2gA8VVt. “Wisconsin FFA is growing, and with

DOW COVERING NDOW COVERINGSALE SALE

AMERY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY

Public Library offers groups Storytime Storytime is held on Wednesdays at 10 a.m.

Join Miss Riss for interactive stories, songs, and more. Stick around after storytime for engaging art, music, or other early learning activities.

Geared toward 2-5 yearolds and their caregivers. A special intergenerational storytime will be held at Golden Age Manor on December 21 at 10 a.m. This storytime will be followed by Christmas carols with musical accompaniment.

1,000 books before kindergarten and Baby book bees These ongoing early literacy initiatives encourage families to establish a strong foundation of reading in young children. Visit the library to sign up for the program that is right for your child.

Teen advisory board Open to 12-18 year olds, the Teen Advisory Board meets on the first Friday of each month, 3:45 p.m.—5:00 p.m., to plan events, talk about

books and more.

Book discussion groups The Inspirational Reading Book Club meets on the first Monday of the month at 10:30 a.m. The Friends of the Library Book Discussion Group meets on the third Monday of the month at 1:30 p.m. to discuss general fiction and literature. The Great Seniors Book Club meets on the third Monday of the month at 10 a.m., at the Amery Area Community Center.

Tech help program Have questions about using your computer, tablet, or mobile device? Need some help with Microsoft Word or Excel? The library offers tech help on Mondays and Wednesdays, 4 p.m.—7 p.m. Help with basic computer skills is offered on Fridays, 10 a.m.—12 p.m.

Book sales The Friends of the Library Book Sale is held on the first Saturday of the month, 9 a.m.—2 p.m., and on the Thurs-

day evening prior to the Saturday sale, 4 p.m.—7 p.m.

Friends The Friends of the Amery Area Public Library Foundation meets on the third Monday of the month at 4:30 p.m.

Meetings are open to all members and to the public.

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

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

Hours Library hours are Monday through Thursday 9 a.m.—7 p.m., Friday 9 a.m.—6 p.m., and Saturday 9 a.m.—2 p.m. The library will be closed on December 2426 and on January 2.

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Emersyn White Grade 1

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HOURS: MAIN STREET or 1 Luminette Privacy Sheer REET MAIN STREET Privacy Sheer or 1 Luminette www.jensenfurnitureluck.com www.jensenfurnitureluck.com or 1 Skyline Gliding Window Panels Mon.-Fri. 9 a.m.-6 p.m. www.jensenfurnitureluck.com www.jensenfurnitureluck.com or 1 Skyline Gliding Window Panels LUCK Custom Draperies • Floor Covering Complete unit) Home Furnishings (plus $100 rebate each •additional LUCK Custom Draperies • Floor Covering Complete unit) Home Furnishings K Sat. 9 a.m.-4 p.m. (plus $100 rebate each •additional Measure & Measure & on any of the following purchases: Installation on any ofSince the following purchases: Installation Out 1956...Find ®

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4 Duette® Honeycomb Shades ® 4 Duette Shades ® Soft Honeycomb Shades or 4 Solera ® Softadditional Shades unit) or 4rebate Soleraeach (plus $25 (plus $25 rebate each additional unit) ® Approved Credit. ® Window Shadings 2 Pirouette*With ® *With Approved Credit. ® Window Shadings 2 Pirouette ® ® Hours: Shadings Window or 2 Silhouette ® ® Hours: Shadings or 2 Silhouette Monday a.m.

- 5:30Shades p.m.; ® - Friday 8:30Window ® 101 MAIN STREET Modern Roman or 2 Vignette Monday Friday 8:30 a.m. - 5:30Shades p.m.; ® - a.m. ® 101• MAIN STREET LUCK, WI 715-472-2487 Saturday 8:30 4:00 p.m.

Modern Roman or 2rebate Vignette (plus $50 each additional unit) LUCK, WI • 715-472-2487 Saturday 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. www.jensenfurnitureluck.com (plus $50 rebate each additional unit) www.jensenfurnitureluck.com Custom Draperies • Floor Covering • Complete Home Furnishings ® ® Shade 1 Duette Vertiglide Honeycomb Custom Draperies • Floor Covering • Complete Home Furnishings ® ® Honeycomb Shade 1 Duette® Vertiglide *Manufacturer’s rebate offer valid for qualifying purchases made 9/15/12 - 12/15/12. A qualifying purchase is defined as a purchase of any of the product set forth above in the quantities set forth above.

If you purchase less than Privacy Sheer ormodels 1 Luminette ® ® any other Hunter Douglas offer or the specified quantity, will not be entitled to a for rebate.

All rebates will bemade issued in U.S.- 12/15/12. dollars, in Athequalifying form of an American Express® Reward Card.

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1062 RiverPlace Mall, Amery

now through now through Nov. 4, 2014 Nov. 4, 2014

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715-268-7111

222 Harriman Ave. N. • Amery, WI

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

Cumberland Healthcare holds successful open house for new extended care unit

SCHOOL LUNCH MENUS AMERY SCHOOLS Thursday, Dec. 22— Lien Elementary lunch: Homemade spaghetti, garlic toast, green beans, garden bar, fruit choices.

Intermediate & Middle school lunch: Homemade spaghetti, garlic toast, green beans, garden bar, fruit choices.

High school lunch: Homemade spaghetti, garlic toast, green beans, garden bar, fruit choices.

No school Dec. 23-Jan. 2.

CLEAR LAKE SCHOOLS Thursday, Dec. 22— Elementary breakfast: Cereal or cinnamon roll, scrambled eggs.

Elementary lunch: Toasted cheese sandwich or PB&J “Uncrustable,” tomato soup, crackers, carrots & broccoli/dip, strawberries, frozen yogurt.

High school breakfast: Entree options: Cereal, cereal bar, cinnamon roll, cheese omelet, Krave S’mores.

High school lunch: Toasted cheese sandwich or oriental chicken salad, tomato soup, crackers, vegetables with dip, strawberries, mandarin oranges No school Dec. 23-Jan. 2.

15B

CUMBERLAND, WI – On Monday, December 12, 2016, the Cumberland Healthcare Extended Care Unit held an open house to celebrate a new addition consisting of 16 private rooms, a dining area and a rehabilitation services treatment space. In an effort to keep services local, Cumberland Healthcare used many local contractors on the project.

Cumberland Healthcare partnered with Care and Rehab, Inc.

Care and Rehab, Inc. will assume operations of the Extended Care Unit beginning on January 1, 2017. Cumberland Healthcare will continue to own the building and lease the premises to Care and Rehab, Inc. The open house brought in over 150 community members and included a short presentation, ribbon cutting ceremony, tours of the new area and light refreshments.

“We are very excited

about the new addition onto the Extended Care Unit,” says Mike Gutsch, CEO at Cumberland Healthcare. “The Cumberland Healthcare Extended Care Unit has achieved a 5 star rating, which is the highest rating awarded by Medicare. Our partnership with Care & Rehab, Inc. will ensure that exceptional nursing home services will continue to be provided in Cumberland now and for years to come.”

Maggie Elmer Grade 1

Levi Thayer Grade 3

Traditions of Frederic has expanded $500 OFF FIRST MONTHS RENT

We have immediate availability Full Time RN on Staff Free RN Assessments

Isaac Thayer Grade 1

Call us today for more information or a tour!

715-327-4888

107 East Oak Street, Frederic, WI

Michael Elmer Pre-K

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Pickard Trucking AMERY

Merry Christmas Siri Yuhas Grade 4

Miles Hartmann Kindergarten

Holiday Hours: Closing at noon on Dec. 23 Closed Dec. 24, 25, 26 Closed noon on Dec. 30 Closed Dec. 31-Jan. 2

Best Wishes from the staff and residents at

Willow Ridge, Inc. 400 Deronda St., Amery • 715-268-8171

216 North Keller Ave., Amery, WI 54001 Phone 715-268-8159 Fax 715-268-2064

Reg. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat. 8 a.m.-12 p.m.

16B AMERY FREE PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2016 www.theameryfreepress.com

Statewide crackdown on drunken driving begins

Christmas Dreams and Gift

‘Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over’ campaign runs from Dec. 15 to Jan. 1

Law enforcement officers throughout the state will be out in force to combat drunken driving during the “Drive Sober or Get Pulled Over” campaign from Thursday, Dec. 15, through New Year’s Day. To get drunken drivers off the road before they kill themselves or innocent victims, 24 impaired driving (OWI) task forces in Wisconsin coordinate and combine expertise and resources from multiple law enforcement agencies for high-visibility enforcement efforts.

Overtime for task force officers is covered by federal funding administered by the Wisconsin Department of Transportation’s (WisDOT) Bureau of Transportation Safety.

Impaired driving task forces typically notify the public in advance of their enforcement initiatives as a deterrent to drunken driving. Roadside signage and vests on officers

let the public know that intensified enforcement is underway, according to David Pabst, director of the WisDOT Bureau of Transportation Safety.

“Law enforcement officers are well trained in identifying the signs of impaired driving, and they know where and when to look for drunken drivers,” Pabst says.

“If drivers make the irresponsible and reckless decision to get behind the wheel while impaired, officers are ready to stop, test and arrest them. Last year, there were nearly 24,000 convictions for drunken driving in Wisconsin. However, our goal is to get people to drive sober, not to make more arrests.”

To help prevent drunken driving, WisDOT offers a free Zero In Wisconsin Drive Sober mobile app, which includes a finda-ride feature that uses a smart phone’s GPS to locate alternative transportation, a blood alco-

hol estimator, designated driver selector, and interactive games that help determine whether drivers should give up their keys.

The Drive Sober app can be downloaded for free at: www.zeroinwisconsin. gov/drivesober/.

In addition to the serious problem of drunken driving, people are increasingly being killed and injured in drugged driving crashes. Last year, 149 people were killed in drug-related traffic crashes in Wisconsin, which is nearly a 200 percent increase in the last 10 years.

To help combat this deadly crisis, the Wisconsin Department of Justice and WisDOT have teamed up to produce new TV and radio public service announcements (http://www.zeroinwisconsin.gov/) that warn of the dangers of drugged driving—especially driving under the influence of prescription medications.

Oh, holiday, with dreams of glistening snow, in thought, we would forego the tropics ease.

When our arms pull in our coats to hold the warmth, our noses turned bright pink from the nipping breeze.

We'd brace against the chilly, piercing wind, for just a glimpse, snow's sparkle on the trees.

Aglow, street lights emit a festive gleam, so like the radiance we have felt years past.

With or without the snow, conveys the dream, a deeper image, perception that will last.

Whatever clime, city, or country place. upon the earth a meaning deep is cast.

And, " I don't care." we shout or whisper tenderly, "where on this earth the wondrous light would shine."

Aglow, the essence, the gift that we receive, the ember of the hoped for promise we enshrine, breaks forth in hearts awaiting to receive.

The dream, reality, from God, the gift is mine.

Carol Morfitt Welch

Wishing You and Yours a Very Merry Christmas!

TOM HARTMANN REALTOR®

Office: 715.268.7125 Cell: 715.222.1752 Tom.Hartmann@Century21.com TomHartmannRealEstate.com

SMARTER. BOLDER. FASTER.

Jezebel Sain Kindergarten

Mickayla Reeves Pre-K

Third Place winner in Pre-K in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest

Forrest Inn Motel 1045 River Place Drive, Amery 715-268-4100

First Place Winner in Kindergarten in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest Closed Dec. 24 Open New Years Eve 8 a.m.-noon

Amery, WI

715-268-8142

Ella Chute Grade 3

Third Place winner in Grade 3 in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest Closing Christmas Eve 6 p.m.

Christmas Day open 6 a.m.-10 p.m.

North of Amery on Hwy. 46 715-268-7654

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

Did you know?

What would Christmas gift-giving be without a tree under which to place the presents? Tree shoppers have plenty of variety to choose from when selecting that ideal tree. Approximately 21,000 Christmas tree farms exist in the United States, and these farms sell between 30 and 35 million real trees each year. Those who prefer artificial trees can shop for everything from trees that appear to be natural to pastel-hued boughs. The first printed reference to a Christmas tree was made in 1531 in Germany. Since then, Christmas trees have grown in popularity through the centuries.

Did you know?

Leaving cookies and milk for Santa Claus is a Christmas Eve tradition. Children regularly place a dish of cookies and a glass of milk by the tree on Christmas Eve so that Santa has enough energy to complete all of his gift-giving before kids wake up on Christmas morning. The tradition of leaving cookies out on Christmas Eve may trace its origins to Saint Nicholas.

On the feast of St. Nicholas on December 6, children would leave food and drink for the saint and any attendants. The treats would be exchanged for gifts. While that’s one theory behind the tradition, others think it is linked to the history of the Christmas tree and the edible decorations that adorn it. Santa would snack on the ornaments. Even after edible decorations gave way to inedible ornaments, the tradition of leaving a snack for Santa remained. Whatever the origins behind the tradition, millions of children dutifully leave milk and cookies for Santa on Christmas Eve.

320 Keller Ave., Amery • 715-268-5626

17B

The man behind the beard Every Christmas Eve, children go to bed eagerly anticipating a visit from Santa Claus.

This merry gentleman is purported to visit the home of every good girl and boy, delivering gifts and cheer along the way.

Before the modern evolution of Santa Claus lived a very real and generous individual named Nicholas. In the third century, Nicholas served as the Bishop of Myrna in present-day Turkey.

He had a reputation for secret gift-giving, believing that giving should be done secretly and sacrificially in Jesus Christ’s name rather than one’s own.

Stories tell of Nicholas paying the dowry for poor daughters to enable them to get married.

He reportedly put coins in the shoes of those who left them out for him. It is believed Nicholas helped to restore the hope of hundreds of people in his community, making him a beloved and revered Bishop. Throughout his ministry, Nicholas fervently shared his life and fortune with others.

Nicholas continued to be revered and commemorated by many Christians even after his death. His charity and unselfish works helped inspire generations of the faithful, and he eventually was named the patron saint of everyone from merchants to sailors to pawnbrokers.

No one really knows what St.

Nicholas looked like. But in 2005, a forensic laboratory in England reviewed historical data and photographs of the remains taken from St. Nicholas’ grave in the 1950s.

Researchers concluded that he was a small man, perhaps no more than five feet in height, with a broken nose.

This image certainly does not fit with the robust frame and other imagery awarded St. Nicholas in more modern years. St. Nicholas is

believed to be the inspiration for Santa Claus, which was a name taken from the Dutch Sinterklaas, a contracted form of Sint Nicolass, or St. Nicholas.

Tales of the real St. Nicholas’ giving spirit were blended with a fictional personification by New York-based newspaper writers who blended the St. Nicholas name with the appearance of a Dutch town citizen. The goal was to reach out to the primarily Dutch immigrants living in New York at the time. This jolly elf image was given a boost by the publication of “A Visit From St. Nicholas,” which was published around the same time.

Eventually, the merry Santa Claus portrayal began to outshine the more accurate St. Nicholas version as a religious man, fostered by political drawings and caricatures that depicted Santa as a chubby sort in a red suit. That image prevails to this day.

Beneath the Christmas symbolism, the beard and the presents associated with Santa Claus lies a tale of generosity that originated with St. Nicholas.

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Kennedy Miller Grade 2

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MARTH WOOD SHAVINGS 6752 State Highway 107 North Marathon, WI 54448

715-842-9200 www.marthwood.com

Olivia Ellefson Grade 1

Jim’s Auto Repair Jim and Pat Ellefson Wanderoos • 715-268-2917

Evan Greenberg Grade 1

Our future’s in good hands.

FFA helps teach leadership, responsibility and teamwork to tomorrow’s farmers and ag leaders. Like FFA we believe that investing in our future farmers and ag leaders ensures that our future is in good hands.

We’re proud to be a Platinum Sponsor of FFA in Wisconsin.

Zack Greenberg Montessori

AgStar.com 866-577-1831

Ethan Wojchik Grade 2

Merry Christmas Closed Dec. 24, 25, 26

Christopherson Eye Clinic 341 Keller Ave. N, Amery Phone 715-268-2020

18B AMERY FREE PRESS

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

Donors help raise $100 million for UW-Madison scholarships MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Donors have helped raise $100 million for student scholarships at the University of Wisconsin-Madison by matching one of the largest individual gifts ever given to the university.

The fundraising effort was spurred by a $50 million donation of matching funds from alumnus Albert “Ab” Nicholas and his wife, Nancy, in June 2015. The effort will enable the school to distribute $4.5 million each year in scholarships to undergraduates, student-athletes and graduate students, the Wisconsin State Journal reported.

More than 250 donors contributed money to match the couple's gift, according to the university. Campus officials said last year that the donations would fund both need- and merit-based financial aid packages.

The Nicholas family had donated a combined $50 million for financial aid between 1982 and 2014, before giving another $50 million for the scholarship program. UW-Madison said the gift was the second-largest ever given to the university.

Ab Nicholas earned his undergraduate and business degrees at UW-Madison during the 1950s, and also played on the school's basketball team. Nancy Nicholas graduated from the university in 1955.

“It would be impossible to overstate the impact that the Nicholas family has had on this university,” said Mike Knetter, a university spokesman. “Our university won't be the same without Ab's presence, but his legacy will endure here forever.”

How to handle holiday homesickness The holiday season is meant to be enjoyed with family and friends, but not everyone can make it home to see their loved ones on the holidays. Commitments to work or school prevent some people from heading home for the holidays, and such situations often inspire feelings of homesickness.

Holiday homesickness may not fully hit some people until the day of the holiday, when people separated from their families miss both the company of their relatives and the holiday traditions they have enjoyed since childhood. But there are several ways to conquer holiday homesickness so you can still enjoy this festive time of year.

• Make technology work for you.

Though you might not be able to sit at the holiday dinner table with your family this holiday season, that does not mean you still can’t lay your eyes on your those closest to you. Arrange to video chat with family members sometime during the holiday. If you’re shipping gifts

home, ask your family members to open their gifts during your video chatting session so you can see the reactions on their faces when they open their presents. This can allow you to enjoy the thrill of seeing a loved one open the perfect present, even if you happen to be thousands of miles away as he or she tears off the wrapping paper.

• Volunteer in your community.

Another way to combat holiday homesickness is to volunteer in your community. Knowing you’re doing your part to make someone else’s holiday special can make it easier for you to be away from family on the holiday. Whether you feed the homeless at a local shelter, distribute toys at a nearby children’s hospital or visit an assisted living facility and spend time with an equally homesick elderly person, putting a smile on someone else’s face is sure to put a smile on your own face as well.

• Stay true to traditions. If your family adheres to certain traditions every holiday, then do your

best to maintain those traditions.

Watch that holiday movie your family always watches or cook that special dish you only enjoy during the holiday season and invite your friends who also won’t be leaving town to join in the fun.

• Participate in community events. Loneliness on the holiday can contribute to feelings of homesickness, so make an effort to celebrate the holiday with your community. Many communities host special holiday events, be it tree lighting ceremonies, parades or local theater performances of classics such as Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol. Participate in these events, which can lift your holiday spirit and ensure you aren’t spending the holiday alone at home.

Holiday homesickness can be a tough pill to swallow, but there are many ways for men and women to enjoy the holidays even if they won’t be able to see their families.

Travis Vierkandt Grade 3

Amaris Vierkandt Grade 1

Merry Christmas from . . .

from

M&M Barber Shop 126 Keller Ave. N, Amery

Phone 715-268-2225

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year Lacey Maxon Pre-K

Dr. Tamara Smith, Dr. Doug Podoll and staff

Josie Maxon Grade 2

New Hours startring Jan. 2

Jacob Maxon Grade 3

Mon.-Fri. 8 a.m.-6 p.m.

Sat. 8 a.m.-3 p.m.

Deer’s Food Locker Deer Park • 715-269-5118

Anna Judith Wagner Grade 4

Offices in Amery 715-268-8109 Baldwin 715-684-5858 New Richmond 715-246-5165

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

Enjoy “A Small Town Christmas” house decorating contest, busy Christmas week activities ‘Tis the week of Christmas, and all is calm…unless you are still trying to finish up your Christmas shopping(or start it in some cases), send those Christmas cards, make the Pounding traditional cookies, wrap the presents, the attend sporting events, entertain, go Paveto work…yes, all is ment calm.

Walking out Pam Humpal this morning to 25 degrees above was a pleasant change compared to the frigid temperatures over the weekend. On cold days like Saturday and Sunday, it makes a person wonder why we live in this country, but then we realize, it is a great place to live!

Winter officially begins on Wednesday, so while you are out shoveling or plowing the snow this season, just keep in mind a saying that I have on a sign… “A snowflake is Winter’s butterfly”. Now doesn’t that make you feel better?

As you have noticed while reading this issue, it is filled with wonderful holiday greetings from area businesses with the assistance of students in grades Pre-K thru 4th. Each of the boys and girls did and great job with their drawings. Thank you to the students for sharing their masterpieces with us, and also to Renee Anderson and Kevin Olson, the art teachers in Amery.

Still looking for the perfect gift to give that special someone? Give the gift of health this holiday season by purchasing a gift certificate to THE FITNESS CENTER, AMERY HOSPITAL & CLINIC. The certificate can be used for a massage, fitness membership, or personal training. For just $20, you can purchase a $25 gift certificate, but hurry, the offer ends Dec. 31.

Voting has begun for “A Small Town Christmas”, Amery’s Christmas House Decorating Contest. The houses that have registered for the contest can be found on the Amery Community Club’s facebook page along with the voting form. You can also pick up a ballot at the Amery Free Press, WESTconsin Credit Union, and Chet Johnson Drug. Judging ends on December 26. So grab your phone or a ballot with the entries addresses, and enjoy a road trip.

As I have said many times before, we love viewing the Christmas lights and decorations around town and the countryside. Thank you so much to everyone who has decorated for the season. We appreciate your efforts, and understand how frustrating and challenging Christmas lights can be.

The 24th Annual John Legut Memorial Cup will be held at the Amery hockey rink on Friday, December 23, at 7:30pm. The Amery hockey alumni will “hit” the ice… let’s hope not too hard. Each year there are some sore bodies after the game, but it is always a fun night for the players to get back on the ice. Proceeds from the game will benefit the hockey scholarship program given to graduating players. Come join the fun!

Also, the Amery Youth Hockey Association is celebrating their 40th anniversary with a FREE Holiday Community Skate open to the public.

The event will be held on Wednesday, December 28, from 6-8pm at the rink with free skate rentals and access to the decorated indoor skating rink. There will be free hockey jerseys to elementary school age kids while supply lasts, free hot drinks, holiday music, and an outdoor bonfire sponsored by the Amery Fire Department. Please consider bringing non-perishable food items or cash donations

DOING WHAT WE SAY SINCE 1935.

for the local food pantry. Congratulations to the Amery Youth Hockey Association on 40 years!

In celebration of Christmas, the Amery Free Press will be closed on Monday, December 26. The early deadline for the issue of Tuesday, December 27, is at 4pm on Thursday, December 22, for the Amery Free Press and The Tab. Area businesses who would like to get an advertisement in the paper on the 27th for their after-Christmas sales, New Year’s activities and hours, may also use the kids cards that were drawn at school. Please let me know which child/children’s cards you would like to use.

The Amery Free Press will also be closed on Monday, January 2, for New Year’s Day. The deadline for the January 3 issue is on Thursday, December 29, at 4pm fro The Tab and the Amery Free Press.

During this very busy time of year please take time to really enjoy the meaning of Christmas, be thankful for your many blessings, and share the moment with family and friends. Dave & I have been very blessed, and would like to wish each and every one of you a very Merry Christmas!

Holiday music releases on the horizon Traditions vary from family to family, but many families share a love of holiday songs and carols at this time of year. Many notable performers have lent their voices to timeless classics or created entirely new songs that have gone on to become perennial favorites. Every year new singers showcase their talents with Christmas releases, and 2014 is no different. Holiday albums available this year include country artists’ collaborations, a carol collection from a singer-songwriter and a surprise swing-jazz release from an actor and voiceover artist.

• Grammy-winning vocalist Michael W. Smith teams up with a bevy of country music greats on his “Michael W. Smith & Friends: The Spirit of Christmas.” Popular artists Lady Antebellum, Jennifer Nettles, Little Big Town, and even U2’s Bono appear on this album, which features an orchestral flavor. The album is Smith’s fourth holiday release.

• Those looking for another Christmas album to freshen up their collections can look to

“Sings Christmas Carols” from Mark Koselek.

The singer-songwriter and frontman for the band Sun Kil Moon lends his baritone and guitar chops to several classic Christmas carols, including “Oh Come All Ye Faithful” and “The First Noel.”

• Seth MacFarlane may have Oscar and Grammy nominations to his name, but soon he will have a Christmas album to his credit as well. MacFarlane recorded “Holiday for Swing” during the holiday season last year.

The release follows MacFarlane’s critically acclaimed musical debut, “Music Is Better Than Words.” The actor collaborates with Norah Jones, Sarah Bareilles and others on the tracks, which have a jazz-blues feel.

In case you happened to miss the release of the variety of Christmas albums last year, choose among “I Wanna Go Surfin’ With Santa,” by the Hollyberries; “Horror Xmas,” from The Misfits; “Snow Globe,”

by Erasure; or “On This Winter’s Night,” from Lady Antebellum.

An Amery Free Press Subscription will make a nice Stocking Stuffer!

Happy Holidays!

HAPPY WINTER!

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19B

Ashlyn Majeske Grade 4

Closing Christmas Eve at 11 a.m.

Closed Dec. 26 & Jan. 2

Amery Country Store Hours: Mon.-Fri. 7 a.m.-6 p.m., Sat. 7 a.m.-1 p.m.

554 St. Rd. 46, Amery 715-268-7482

Ian Bursik Kindergarten

THINK SPRING!

Gardener Gift Certificates PLEASE CALL 715-268-7660

1 mile south of Amery on Hwy. 46 715-268-7660

20B AMERY FREE PRESS

ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

Also check the Out & About page for area events Free Community Holiday Ska3ng

Help Celebrate 40 years To celebrate the Holidays and the 40th anniversary of the Amery Youth Hockey Association we are opening the rink to the public for a Holiday Community Skate.

From 6 - 8 pm on December 28th come to the Amery rink for free skate rentals and access to the decorated indoor skating rink.

Free hockey jerseys to elementary school age children (while supplies last) Free hot drinks, holiday music, holiday movie and an outdoor bonfire sponsored by the Amery Fire Department.

Cookies and food available for purchase.

Please consider bringing a non-perishable food or cash donation that will be given to a local food shelf.

at Sassy Snips in Clayton

An Amery Free Press Subscription makes a wonderful gift that last all year long!

*Holiday Special* Buy a $50 Gift Card and receive $5 for you . . .

Sophie Zarbok Kindergarten

Kallie Andersen Grade 3 Second Place winner in Grade 3 in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest

Room for Private Parties

Third Place winner in Kindergarten in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest CLOSED Dec. 24 Dec. 25 Jan. 1

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

H Co. Rd. F

Merry Christmas from . . .

Amery Family Restaurant

418 Keller Ave. S. Amery 715-268-2100 Gift Certificates Available Open Dec. 24, 6 a.m.-2 p.m.

Closed Dec. 25

Open 7 days a week 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Musclemedix

By Toni

Toni Bar, LMT 110 Prentice St. N Clayton 715-948-2900

Holiday Special

Buy Package of 4 - One Hour Sessions for $205 (Savings of $15)

Valid thru Dec. 31, 2016.

ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

AREA BOWLING SCORES Spare Time Bowl Bar & Grill, Turtle Lake SUNDAY NIGHT MIXED COUPLES Division 1 Yeske/Nevin ........................................ 39 Becker .....................................................33 Pabst/Graber ........................................31 Wick/Heintz ........................................ 29 Larson/Kern .........................................25 BBT ..........................................................25 Division 2 Brown/Everson ...................................43 Off Constantly..................................... 39 Hegg/Carlson...................................... 34 Becker/Monson ....................................31 Nottom/Zemke....................................31 Anderson/Johnson ............................ 18 High game, men: Gary Warner 246, Tony Cifaldi 236, Gary Nottom 225, Jim Becker 225, Hjalmer Gerloff 215, Mike Elwood 212, Aram Khardian 210, Dave Yeske 208, Pat Wick 194, Stretch Broker 192.

High game, women: Connie Graber 203, Trudi Pabst 176, Lori Larson 172, Debbie Thill 167, Donna Utecht 158, Ali Blomberg 155, Val Hegg 154, Betty Deunow 148, Diane Nottom 145, Cherie Evenson 144.

High series, men: Tony Cifaldi 650, Gary Nottom 600, Jim Becker 589, Hjalmer Gerloff 576, Gary Warner 575, Pat Wick 533, Aram Khardian 531, Mike Elwood 528, Larry Larson 518, HB Becker 517.

High series, women: Connie Graber 508, Lori Larson 492, Trudi Pabst 486, Debbie Thill 446, Ali Blomberg 417, Val Hegg 413, Diane Nottom 393, Heidi VanHeuklom 385, Kim Shafer 384, Cherie Evenson 373.

MONDAY NIGHT LADIES Division 1 Countyline Dairy..................................74 Spare Time Bowl.................................73 Becker’s Truckin..................................69 Bye ........................................................... 14 Division 2 Bowlin Buddies...................................101 No Wicks Moravit ...............................66 Austad’s Super Valu..........................60 Clear Lake Auto ...................................47 High game: Deanne Moravitz 198, Kathy Eggers 192, Lori Larson 185, Judy Ullom 183, Connie Graber 174, Brenda Levine 170, Karen DeGolier 168, Amy Anderson 166, Laurel Cap 161, Shannon Bents 157, Melody Meyer 157.

High series: Lori Larson 533, Judy Ullom 519, Deanne Moravitz 505, Karen DeGolier 460, Laurel Cap 460, Amy Anderson 458, Brenda Levine 457, Kathy Eggers 453, Connie Graber 432, Jamie Elfers 428.

SENIOR’S Alley Kats...........................................42.0 Tom Kats...........................................40.0 Handy Kats ....................................... 37.0 Kool Kats ...........................................35.0 Top Kats .............................................34.0 Leinie Kats.........................................33.0 Old Kats............................................. 30.0 Bad Kats.............................................29.0 High game, men: Hjalmer Gerloff 222, Bill Gelting 215, Harvey Becker 204, Jim Glowe 196, Bill Pickard 190, Jim Pickard 170, Merle Eder 167, Bud Merriman 166, Davie Yeske 154, Conrad Kellermann 151.

High game, women: Renee Glowe 156, Betty Duenow 137, Judy Benes 134, Sandy Berglund 133, Jinnie Lietzow 121, Carol Hannula 115.

High series, men: Hjamler Gerloff 608, Harvey Becker 541, Bill Pickard

541, Bill Gelting 516, Jim Pickard 500, Jim Glowe 479, Bud Merriman 443, Conrad Kellermann 436, Ralph Kolstad 409, Davie Yeske 403.

High series, women: Renee Glowe 423, Betty Duenow 394, Sandy Berglund 377, Judy Benes 363, Carol Hannula 336, Jinnie Lietzow 283.

SPARE TIME MEN’S Division 1 Spare Time......................................281.0 Scheps Dairy .................................. 249.5 Hoff’s Construct ............................ 241.0 Anderson Storage ........................ 231.0 Division 2 7 Brothers ........................................ 310.5 Austad’s Super Valu.....................287.0 Perfect Image ............................... 276.0 Floor’s & More ............................... 270.0 Division 3 Narrows Waterfront ................... 282.5 Danca’s Kar Korral ....................... 234.5 Grosskreutz Crop...........................207.0 Sanmina ..........................................182.0 Division 4 Busy B’s ............................................ 241.0 Hotel Bar & Grill ............................ 224.0 Elfers Resident............................... 212.0 Lefty’s Hookers...............................191.0 High game: Rob Erickson 270, Dean Munkelwitz 251, Scott Danca 248, Alex Dix 243, Jeremy Schradle 238, Brandon Kahl 234, Anthony Mizer 227, Randy Bremness 227, Adam Zemke 227, Tom Roessler 227, Mark Ullom 227, Dallas Solfest 225, Larry Anderson 225, Chuck Bier 224, Hjalmer Gerloff 224, Sprout Molls 223, Korey Kirwan 222, Jim Glowe 222, Mike Davis 217, Jeff Olson 216, Marty Helgeson 214, Paul Schumacher 212, Bill Pickard 210, Jim Becker 206, Tony Cifaldi 206.

High series: Rob Erickson 712, Larry Anderson 652, Jeremy Schradle 650, Dean Munkelwitz 630, Sprout Molls 628, Tom Roessler 626, Chuck Bier 615, Jim Glowe 614, Hjalmer Gerloff 613, Tony Cifaldi 612, Dallas Solfest 605, Scott Danca 601, Jeff Olson 596, Ethan Kettenacker 580, Alex Dix 576, Randy Bremness 573, Ryan Monson 572, Anthony Mizer 570, Mike Davis 567, Dave Anderson 566, Bill Pickard 565, Steve Elfers 564, Adam Zemke 564, Paul Schumacher 563, Jim Becker 549.

Club 53 Bar & Lanes, Amery MONDAY NIGHT MEN Division 1 Tac Two ............................................ 162.5 Shoreview ........................................123.5 Division 2 Amery True Value .........................146.0 Dick’s Fresh Market ......................128.0 High games: Todd Zemke 258, Bob Gillis 240-217, Jim Swanson 214203, Gary Nottom 211, Chris Wolter 205.

High series: Bob Gillis 652, Jim Swanson 597, Todd Zemke 589, Chris Wolter 584.

TUESDAY NIGHT MEN Division 1 Northwest Communications .... 155.5 Club 53 ..............................................140.5 Division 2 Chet Johnson Drug .......................138.0 Waterside ........................................120.0 High games: Will Schaffer 244, Bob Oulette 244-230-223, Wade Prindle 225-218, Bill Peterson 224, Chris Sobottka 223, Luke Harris 218, Scott Jensen 204 .

High series: Bob Oulette 697, Wade Pirndle 642, Will Schaffer 599, Bill Peterson 592, Scott Jensen 563.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEN Division 1 Amery Fire Department ............. 132.0 Preeferred Lawn ............................ 121.0 Division 2 Club 53 ...............................................147.5 Lamperts .........................................146.5 High games: Jerod Wollan 260, Denis Carteron 258, Beau Gorres 256-213-201, Jim Knutson 236-211, Adam Witthoft 217, Chris Sobotka 201-201.

High series: Beau Gorres 670, Jim Knutson 640, Denis Carteron 637, Jerod Wollan 593, Chris Sobottka 563.

THURSDAY-FRIDAY NIGHT WOMEN Division 1 Club 53 ..............................................160.5 Northwest Communications .... 142.5 Chet’s ................................................109.5 Division 2 Amery Fire Dept. ...........................144.5 Amery Hospital ............................. 142.5 Bremer ..............................................140.5 High games: Pam Humpal 199166, Anne Wollan 188, Marcia Clark 175-154-151, Laurie Harris 169-152, Lori Kopacz 165-158-155, Nicki Pettay 163-161, Karen Gorres 161, Sherry Martin 159, Diane Lewis 155, Kelly Fansler 153, Sid Jones 152-150, Bev Gorres 152, Jess Sine 150.

High series: Pam Humpal 496, Marcia Clark 480, Lori Kopacz 478, Anne Wollan 465, Arica Boudreau 438, Karen Gorres 434, Sid Jones 430, Laurie Harris 426, Nicki Pettay 425.

21B

Dine with us New Year’s Eve! on Beautiful Pike Lake

Saturday, Dec. 31, 2016

DINNER & DANCE with JIM ARMSTRONG 8 entrees to choose from Serving at 4 p.m.

Dinner Reservations Recommended

Call us about your parties before or after Christmas

Friday - Fish Fry & Prime Rib Saturday - “Featuring” Prime Rib Sunday Breakfast - 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Jenna Hardina Grade 4

On Pike Lake, Amery, Wis.

One mile north of Amery on Hwy. 46, 1/2 mile west on Cty. Rd. H

715-268-8774

CENTRAL AUTO & Towing, LLC Amery • Clayton • Clear Lake 560 70th Ave., CTH J & JJ

•TUNE-UPS •COLLISION REPAIR •TIRES •BRAKES •DEER DAMAGE •TOWING •Engine & Transmission Repair •Alignments •Install Interlocks

Within 30 miles of Amery, Clayton or Clear Lake, We Tow For Free If We Do The Work (Mechanical Repair Over $150)

HOURS: Sun.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-Midnight Fri. & Sat. 10 a.m.-2:30 a.m.

948-7777

715-268-6681

WE WILL HELP COVER YOUR DEDUCTIBLES

Saturday, Dec. 24, 10 a.m.-5 p.m.

Customer Appreciation Day! Free Tom and Jerry’s!

Snacks and Munchies!

DOOR PRIZES!

Camille Kastanek Kindergarten

Open Christmas Eve 11 a.m.-6 p.m.

Closed Christmas Day

Alibi Bar Downtown Amery Phone 715-268-8928

Open Dec. 24, 9 a.m.-noon Closed Christmas Day

Mobil 1

Lube Express

St. Croix Falls Phone 715-483-1367

NEW YEAR’S EVE Specials! *PRIME RIB:

King Cut $24.95, w/Shrimp $28.95 Queen Cut $21.95, w/Shrimp $25.95

*SHRIMP:

Garlic Butter Shrimp $19.95 Deep Fried Shrimp $17.95 ALL DINNERS INCLUDE: Choice of Potato, Veggie, Soup & Salad Bar, Dessert, Champagne CALL FOR RESERVATIONS

Live Music with “Jukebox Live” 9 p.m.-1 a.m.!

22B AMERY FREE PRESS

ENTERTAINMENT

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

www.CricketsBarAndGrill.com

Season’s Greetings

Sawyer Madsen Kindergarten

Theo Whitley Montessori

Closing Dec. 24 at 3 p.m.

Closed Dec. 25

Hayden McGrane Pre-K Second Place winner in Pre-K/Montessori in the Amery Community Club Christmas Card Contest

Seasons Greetings from . . .

CLOSED CHRISTMAS DAY

7th annual Dart & Bean Bag Tournament

SATURDAY, DEC. 31 FREE Lasagna Dinner for all players DRINK SPECIALS * PARTY FAVORS Sign up at 6 p.m. • Dinner 7 p.m.

Tourney starts 8 p.m. $5 entry fee

309 Keller Ave. S, Amery 715-268-9966

Amery, Wis.

FULL MENU DAILY FOOD SPECIALS

Now Booking Weddings & Banquets for 2017!

Largest Full Service Wedding Venue in the area! www.CricketsBarAndGrill.com

Merry Christmas!

Snow Raking Remove snow now before ice dams form!

FREE Quote

1/4 mile north of Hwy. 8 on Cty. H 715-268-6262 Open Daily 10:30 a.m.

Check the ads for special Holiday Hours and Events

24th Annual

John Legut Memorial Cup Friday, Dec. 23, 7:30 p.m.

AMERY ICE ARENA

Amery local 715-529-2812

Merry Christmas!

1065 RiverPlace Drive, Amery

Enjoy a great hockey game with Amery Alumni and help raise the funds to award educational scholarships.

Admission $3 adults, $2 students, 6 & under free

Your support is appreciated for this effort.

Hockey Alumni interested in playing please contact Andrea Legut andrealegut@ yahoo.com, phone 715-781-0710 or Annette Elkin 715-268-9126

Carter Sorensen Grade 3

Friday, Dec. 23 Music by “The Big Smooch” NICI PEPER

Christopher Wiese Grade 3

Jaxson Robinson Grade 1

Open Christmas Eve 10 a.m.-7 p.m. (?)

Closed Christmas Day Join us for

New Year’s Eve Dinner Specials Music by “Two Is Enough”

Ida Mae’s Cafe

TAMMY JO

UW Wanderoos

Wanderoos, WI 715-268-9217

OPEN Mon.-Thurs. 6:30 am-2 pm Fri. 6:30 am-7 pm Sat. 6 am-2 pm Sun. 7 am-2 pm Closed Christmas Day

Homestyle Breakfast & Lunch CATERING & CONFERENCE ROOM Breakfast served all day Lunch specials from 11 a.m.

Owner/Operators Rog and Barb Anderson 121 Keller Ave. N • Amery • 715-268-4242

325 N. Keller Ave., Amery, WI 715-268-7010 HOURS: Mon.-Thurs.

11 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Fri. & Sat. 11 a.m.-11 p.m.

Sun. 8 a.m.-9:30 p.m.

Closing Christmas Eve at 4 p.m.

Closed Christmas Day

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

CLASSIFIEDS DECEMBER 20, 2016

AMERY FREE PRESS

Adoray Is Growing!

Testimonials from our Hospice Clinicians: It is not just what I do it is the whole team! I can just reach out to my co-workers because they are there for me! Best career choice/change I ever made! Even on the stressful days, I love my job and what I do!!

—Sandi

RN - Hospice

North Team (32 hours per week) Ideal candidates will have a minimum of two years RN experience in a hospital, LTC, Home Health, or Hospice setting. Should also have WI license

Home Health Aide Less than 20 hours per week

Ideal candidates will have a minimum of two years CNA experience in a hospital, LTC, Home Health, or Hospice setting. Should also have WI license These jobs require extensive local travel

FOR RENT 460 SF secure storage space

Rear Shoppes of Amery

Send resume to: T.Harrington@adorayhomecare.org or mail to Adoray, 2231 Hwy. 12, Suite 201, Baldwin, WI 54002. 715-684-5020

1 BR apartment

Includes heat, water, sewer, garbage

Call Shirley 715-808-4060

$250 per month Call Nate @ 715-441-1423

Join Our Team!

Amery Memory Care is looking for part time 2nd & 3rd shift Resident Care Assistants Interested applicants please apply in person

FOR RENT Dec. 1

Bottom half of house on Harriman

Stove, refrig., washer, dryer. Two bedrooms, one bath, full basement. Garage. $600 + deposit.

You pay electric and share. You pay 2/3 of water, sewer & heat.

Remove snow from walks & mow lawn in summer. No dogs.

Call 715-268-8451 or 715-222-2653

HELP WANTED Looking for full time Counter Person

Must have good customer service skills and have valid driver’s license, and clean driver record.

Now Hiring!

Good Samaritan Society - St. Croix Valley, is now hiring a Cook.

AM & PM hours available.

Competitive benefits offered.

To find out more, visit good-sam.com/stcroixvalley.

2 BR, 1 bath apartment

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, religion, marital status, color, genetic information, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other protected status.

Amery Auto Supply Inc. PARTS CITY AUTO PARTS 334 S. Keller Ave., Amery, WI 54001 715-268-7734

715-643-6404 EHO

Help Us Make a Difference!

FT Die Cutters FT & PT Electronic Assemblers First Shift-Flexible Start/End Time Voluntary Benefits Available Pay BOE

Good Samaritan Society – St. Croix Valley is now hiring fulland part-time CNAs. Competetive benefits offered.

To find out more, visit good-sam.com/stcroixvalley.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, religion, marital status, color, genetic information, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other protected status. 16-G0493

Deadline for the Classified page is Friday noon

Now Hiring!

Good Samaritan Society St. Croix Valley, is now hiring Housekeeping - Part-time days.

Competitive benefits offered.

To find out more, visit good-sam.com/stcroixvalley.

All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to gender, race, religion, marital status, color, genetic information, age, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, veteran status or other protected status.

For classified ads call Mike or Pam at the Amery Free Press 715-268-8101

The primary duties of the graphic designer are to create high quality, accurate and creative artwork in a timely manner to meet the needs of the clients and editorial staff. The graphic designer works closely with the sales staff to create, modify and update advertisements in time to meet advertising deadlines. The designer also works directly with the editorial staff to build the weekly newspaper. Editorial production includes laying out pages under the Sentinel’s style-guidelines.

• Proficient with Adobe InDesign, Illustrator & Photoshop • Knowledge of Web design a plus • Excellent communication and time management skills • Good organizational skills, accuracy and attention to detail • Ability to perform job responsibilities in a timely manner with minimal supervision • Flexibility in performing tasks outside of basic responsibilities Send your resume to: tstangl@theameryfreepress.com or mail to Sentinel Publications Attn: Tom Stangl P.O. Box 424 • Amery, WI 54001 Employment Opportunity GRAPHIC DESIGNER

WITC New Richmond Campus

Seeking GDSI Team members! www.gdsiswitches.com

N ow Hiring!

Sentinel Publications currently has an opening for a part-time Graphic Designer. The ideal candidate must be proficient with Adobe InDesign, Photoshop and Illustrator.

Custodian

in Clear Lake Utilities included No pets Available NOW

Employment Opportunity GRAPHIC DESIGNER

QUALIFICATIONS:

215 Birch St. W, Amery

APPLY IN PERSON

FOR RENT

For detailed job descriptions on these positions, go to www.jobshq.com.

In the keyword search box, type Adoray

FOR RENT IN AMERY

23B

APPLY TODAY! www.gdsiswitches.com Send resumes to Cheri at richardsc@gdsiswitches.com

Golden Age Manor

Applications are being accepted from qualified candidates for a full-time Custodian position at the Wisconsin Indianhead Technical College New Richmond Campus. This position will work 3:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m. with a weekend rotation and is responsible for performing a variety of tasks required to maintain the cleanliness, good order, and secure conditions of the campus. Applicants must attend and pass qualifying testing in order to be considered for the position. Testing will be held on 1/4/17 at 3:30 pm at the New Richmond Campus.

For a complete job description, list of qualifications, testing information and to apply visit our website at https://witc. peopleadmin.com/postings/1785 Deadline to apply: January 3, 2017 WITC is an Equal Opportunity/Access/Affirmative Action/Veterans/Disability Employer and Educator

TTY 711

in Amery, WI would like you on our team!

Career Opportunity - RN– Overnight

Shift

Hours: 10:30pm-6:45am Starting Night Shift RN Wage: $26.86-$27.86/hr .8 position / 31 hours guaranteed per week with opportunity to pick up additional hours Deadline to apply: December 31, 2016

This position offers a comprehensive benefit package, including participation in the Wisconsin Retirement program for government employees, Paid Time off, and optional health, dental and vision insurance. Polk County promotes the health and well-being of their employees with opportunities to support your level of involvement in a Worksite Wellness Program. Call today with any questions.

YOU MUST COMPLETE AN ON-LINE APPLICATION TO BE ELIGIBLE. For complete job description, position requirements, application, and details please visit our website at www.co.polk.wi.us, Employment Opportunities. AA/EEOC

Polk County offers careers that Matter Join us to make a difference, together we will strengthen our community!

We cannot function without great employees - talented, caring professionals are rewarded with a great, competitive total rewards package.

Heavy Equipment Operator/Laborer — Lime Quarry Full-time-Non-exempt Wage: Depends on Qualifications Provides safe and efficient operation of equipment and general operations at the Lime Quarry located in Osceola; assisting with customers and maintenance of equipment. Requires a valid Wisconsin CDL license (minimum Class B) and certification of training from the Mine, Safety and Health Administration (MSHA) Deadline to apply: December 27, 2016 YOU MUST COMPLETE AN ON-LINE APPLICATION TO BE ELIGIBLE. For complete job description, position requirements, application, and details please visit our website at www.co.polk.wi.us, Employment Opportunities. AA/EEOC

24B

AMERY FREE PRESS

CHRISTMAS/WINTER CARD WINNERS

DECEMBER 20, 2016

www.theameryfreepress.com

Community Club announces Christmas/ Winter Card winners

PAM HUMPAL|AMERY FREE PRESS PAM HUMPAL|AMERY FREE PRESS

Community Club President Dan Young and Amery Art Teacher Renee Anderson pose with the Pre-K/Montessori winners. From left: First place – Adam Jurisch, Second place – Theo Whitley and Third place – Mickayla Reeves.

Community Club President Dan Young and Amery Art Teacher Renee Anderson pose with the Kindergarten winners. From left: First place – Jezebel Sain, Second place – Zachary Hosking and Third place – Sophie Zarbok.

PAM HUMPAL|AMERY FREE PRESS

PAM HUMPAL|AMERY FREE PRESS

Community Club President Dan Young and Amery Art Teacher Renee Anderson pose with the Second grade winners. From left: First place – Anna Tjepkes, Second place – Estella Chaves and Third place – Joey Byrnes.

Community Club President Dan Young and Amery Art Teacher Renee Anderson pose with the First grade winners. From left: First place – Rian Wallberg (absent), Second place – Matthew Danielson and Third place – Lars McElrath.

PAM HUMPAL|AMERY FREE PRESS

Amery Art Teacher Kevin Olson and Community Club President Dan Young pose with the Third grade winners. From left: First place – Lincoln Heinn, Second place – Kallie Andersen and Third place – Ella Chute.

PAM HUMPAL|AMERY FREE PRESS

Amery Art Teacher Kevin Olson and Community Club President Dan Young pose with the Fourth grade winners. From left: First place – Paige Komanec, Second place – Paige Ralidak (absent) and Third place – Katelin Graski.