Afp 2 7 17

FREE PRESS AMERY

1892 - 2017

TUESDAY, FEBRUARY 7, 2017

125 YEARS STRONG

VOL. 121 NO. 31 www.theameryfrepress.com $1.00

SPORTS: Warrior Boys upset SCC, win third straight PAGE 23

11.5 million awarded in first of Christensen civil suits Jail administration ruled ‘deliberately indifferent’ toward past sexual complaints

BY JESSICA DE LA CRUZ EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

Civil decisions have been reached in two of the five lawsuits brought by sexual-assault victims of former Amery Fire Chief and Polk County Jailer, Darryl Christensen.

A Madison-based jury awarded a total of 11.5 million in damages Friday

afternoon. Four million of the award (two million per plaintiff) was granted against Polk County and Darryl Christensen jointly and severally; which means that both Polk County and Christensen have an equal obligation to pay the total sum. The remaining 7.5 million (3.75 million per plaintiff) was awarded against Christensen alone.

‘We need to get as much as possible in compliance.’

Sheriff Pete Johnson to Jail Administrator Nargis following the intial investigation into Christensen’s assaults

Yet to be determined are the limits of the county’s insurance policy, and how much of that four million dollars Polk County will have to pay.

Christensen pled guilty and was sentenced last February to criminal charges of sexually assaulting five female inmates while employed at the SEE COUNTY PAGE EIGHT

Council hires Arizona based organizational consultant

BY JESSICA DE LA CRUZ EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

Toftness Chiropractic in Amery.

Dave Toftness’s dad, Luther Toftness, began practicing in Amery in 1948, and moved to its current location in 1966.

It’s been a long run, for both Luther and Dave.

Visitors to Toftness Chiropractic will soon see a new face, but maybe not an unfamiliar one.

Jackie Peterson has taken over the reigns;

With five of six council members present at February’s regular council meeting, the council voted to approve the hiring of Mejorando Group to be its organizational consultant.

Two companies were able to bid the request for proposals; the Mejorando Group of Arizona, and Integrated Public Resources out of Brillion, Wis. The Finance Committee recommended the more expensive of the two choices for council approval. The Mejorando Group bid the project at $22,000 including travel expenses. Integrated Public Resources quoted the project at $12,500.

As discussion on the topic played out, council members appeared to dance around a topic that only they were privy to.

Alderman Strohbusch proposed waiting on hiring a company.

“Based on where we’re sitting currently, I think we need to table this for a month or two.

I think we need to let these other issues go by and then bring them in when we’re in a more stable environment,” said Strohbusch. “Plus $22,000 is a lot of money.”

“The reason we’re proposing it is because of the problem we’ve got to this evening,” countered Alderman Davis, who chairs the

SEE TOFTNESS PAGE TWO

SEE CITY PAGE TWO

JESSICA DE LA CRUZ | AMERY FREE PRESS

Dave Toftness (left) has officially sold his chiropractic business to Amery grad Jackie Peterson (right), who plans to keep the Toftness name.

Passing the torch at Toftness

BY JESSICA DE LA CRUZ EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

Locally, and throughout the country, the name Toftness is nearly synonymous with chiropractic medicine.

“There’s over 20 chiropractors in our family. The joke is we don’t have family reunions, we have chiropractic conventions,” says Dave Toftness, owner of

Dr. Rollyn Lee Dr. Heather Marks

We are always accepting new patients and same day appointments are generally available.

Call us today for a Healthier you!

1030 River Place Drive Amery, WI 54001 Phone: 715-268-2103 Fax: 715-268-7729 www.river-place-dental.com HOURS: Monday-Thursday 8-5, Friday 7-4

The Area’s Laser Dental Experts NEWS 715-268-8101 editor@theameryfreepress.com

ADVERTISING PUBLIC NOTICES 715-268-8101 715-268-8101 1030 River Place Drive phumpal@theameryfreepress.com phumpal@theameryfreepress.com

P.O. Box 106 Amery, WI 54001

SUBSCRIPTIONS 715-268-8101 dstangl@theameryfreepress.com

2

AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017 www.theameryfreepress.com

TOFTNESS: Peterson will keep Toftness name, and expand to regular business hours FROM PAGE ONE

something Toftness didn’t necessarily see coming.

But now, he says, everything about it feels right.

“She’s the instigator,” he chides.

And Jackie explains, “I approached him and asked him about his plans for retirement, because I was looking at starting a practice of my own. But I wanted to be in Amery. And it seemed like a good fit if he wanted to be done.”

Jackie graduated from Amery in 2008, exactly 40 years after Dave. She went to college in Winona, and then Chiropractic school at Northwestern in St. Paul, graduating last year.

“With this kind of practice, you have to be here for people,” explains Toftness. “And I was taking off more and more time. I never thought I’d retire this early. But Jackie is very sharp.”

The two spent months talking over the details. And Peterson officially bought the practice on February 1.

It’s an exciting change to see such a young business owner again, especially an Amery grad. She looks forward to starting her new career in her hometown.

“I was always interested in health care,” says Jackie. “Chiropractic is all about health, so I realized it would be a good fit for me. It’s almost endless the list of things that chiropractic

CITY: Davis says city ‘just trying to get its house in order.’

FROM PAGE ONE

Finance/Personnel committee.

Management Analyst David Chanski explained that Mejorando provided a wide range of experience in the area, as opposed to Integrated Public Resources which appeared to be just starting out.

In their proposal, Mejorando explained they would be conducting interviews with city personnel and department heads, reviewing city budgets and performance reports, assessing staffing levels, establishing goals, and making recommendations that they city would be at liberty to use or not use if they wished. Their proposal includes a public meeting to present a ‘Blueprint for Change’ to those in attendance.

“If a consultant is selected this isn’t something that would happen tomorrow,” added Clerk Treasurer Fran Duncanson.

“The fellow from Wisconsin really doesn’t have much experience,” said Alderman Rick VanBlaricom. “And the other thing I’d like to say is that we felt this might be a really positive thing when it comes to dealing with administrators and hiring new administrators. It’s things that probably the council should have done eight years ago when we evolved from a Mayoral coun-

cil to having a City Administrator. It may have tempered or enhanced some of the expectations and things that we understand about how that process developed.”

“I’m not opposed to the process, I just think the timing is bad,” Strohbusch responded. “$22,000 is a lot of money. If it were $7,000 it would be a no brainer.”

“I guess Rick kind of brought it up as well, if we’d done this a lot earlier, $22,000 is a lot less than we’re going to be spending for other things.”

The motion to hire Mejorando Group passed by a vote of 4 to 1, with Strohbusch casting the lone dissenting vote.

Funding for the consultant will come from the City’s Rainy Day Fund.

When asked to clarify what he meant by ‘spending for other things,’ Personnel Chair Rick Davis added, “There are no other things. We’re just trying to get our house in order that’s all.”

City Administrator Darcy Long was placed on paid administrative leave January 25. Davis was also asked if he would be willing to tell the citizens of Amery where that issue stands, he added, “We certainly will when we get there, but we’re not there yet.”

can help. Chiropractors are the major caregivers for conditions that effect the spine and nervous system.”

As for the transition, Peterson says she’ll be keeping the Toftness name.

It’s a solid name in the chiropractic business, after all.

She’s looking forward to growing the practice and getting up to speed on the patients and their treatment plans.

“He was only here a couple days a week. So now I’ll be here full time and building up the patient base,” says Peterson. “Being here Monday through Friday it should be fairly easy for people to get in and see me. I’ll be practicing pretty similar to how he’s practiced. I don’t want to change anything

that’s worked for someone.”

Some of Toftness’s patients have been coming to him for nearly 40 years, and that’s something neither he nor Peterson take for granted.

“It’s a very personal business,” says Toftness. “I always specialized in real gentle care. And a lot of the people who come here, that’s what they want.”

Toftness isn’t exactly sure what he’ll do with his ‘early retirement,’ but he feels that he’s leaving Toftness Chiropractic in good hands.

“It’s an opportunity for both of us. I want her to succeed, and I’m going to do everything I can do to make sure she succeeds. I’m confidant she will, otherwise I wouldn’t have done it.”

Council Notes

BY JESSICA DE LA CRUZ EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

The Amery City Council met on Wednesday, February 1, 2017 Mayor Kay Erickson and Alderman Dave Myers were both absent for medical reasons.

The meeting was led by Council President Julie Reimenscheider, who motioned to amended the agenda to remove item twelve— discussing ‘an agreement between the City Administrator and the City.’ The motion was seconded and approved.

Amery Police Chief Tom Marson presented results of the department’s annual report.

The department put on about 5000 more miles in 2016 than in the previous year. Citations were down. Arrests decreased by 30 percent.

Disorderly conduct and domestic disputes were up. Complete overview is available at the city website.

Public Works Director ‘Bones’ McCarty reports that Christmas decorations have been taken down and they’re in the process of switching lights over to LEDs. There’s also been lots of patching going on, but if you see any that have been missed please call.

Fire Chief Dale Koehler reported that 273 hours of service have logged for 2017 thus far. He also recapped and shared with the council how many of those are mutual aid responses. Amery will send four officers to Texas for training in the new airboat, along with a maintenance person. The department will also talk with neighboring departments about training for ice rescues. The boat is scheduled to be delivered by the end of February or early March. Koehler also notes they’ll be discontinuing use of the siren behind the fi re station. They are also looking for a buyer for the old siren system.

Clerk Treasurer Fran Duncanson reports that tax collections are wrapping up. She’s also working on year end reporting and oth-

er reports for the IRS. Duncanson reports that 70 percent of her office time is occupied with the new proposed development projects of Kwik Trip and a new hotel. Project managers will meet with city officials to keep projects on track.

Management Analyst David Chanski reports that the housing study will be presented at the March 1 City Council meeting. He’s working on policy alternatives for the walkability study. They should be scheduling a meeting on that soon. Work on the water recreation study has begun. A survey will be sent with the second quarter utility bills, with the purpose of evaluating interest in additional water recreation options in Amery.

RFPs have also been sent for the reconstruction of the Flagpole Park lift station, due Friday, February 10. Installation is planned for late summer. The city also continues to look for options for road access to the industrial park property. Chanski reports he also will have training on updating the website. If you see anything that needs updating please let him know.

The Finance/Personnel Committee met January 10 and met in open session to discuss RFPs for an audit firm. The City will use Clifton Larson Allen. The committee also met on the 18th and 31st in close session to deal with closed session issues. On the 31st, they also discussed RFPs for an organizational consultant. Only two companies were able to bid the service. They also discussed the upcoming renewal of the Community Center lease, and the committee will be putting together a new lease in the next month.

Public Safety met on January 31. They discussed the Polk County mutual aid agreement. As recommended by the committee, the full council voted unanimously to approve the mutual aid agreement.

Tolan Sworn In The entire roster of 10th District Judges were on hand, along with a standing-room-only courtroom full of observers for Dan Tolan’s official investiture ceremony Monday afternoon. Dan Tolan was appointed by Governor Scott Walker to fill the vacancy of Judge Molly GaleWyrick, who retired in November. Tolan was sworn in by long time friend and colleague, Judge Michael Bitney.

JESSICA DE LA CRUZ | AMERY FREE PRESS

JESSICA DE LA CRUZ | AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

OUT&ABOUT

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 7 Referendum Information Meeting

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.

A community information meeting on the upcoming school referendum will be held at the Amery Intermediate School Media Center on Tuesday, February 7 at 6:30 p.m.

The meeting will include referendum details, answering questions and concerns, and planning of a community campaign.

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.

Swedish Club Meeting The Amery Swedish Club meets at Our Saviors Lutheran Church Tuesday, February 7, at 7 PM for its annual fi lm night. Come join us to watch “Pretty Much 100% Scandinavian –Saga 2”, a look at the humor of Sweden by Swedish fi lmmaker Stephan Quinth.

Fika(refreshments)follow; everyone is welcome.

Preschool Screenings Free preschool development screenings will be held at the Amery Public Library, February 7 and 9 from 3 to 6:45 p.m.

The event is open to children in the Amery district who were born between September 15, 2013 and December 31, 2014.

Questions call Becky at 715268-9771 ext. 337.

FEBRUARY 9 Identity theft and social media seminar Royal Credit Union will conduct a presentation on Identity Theft and Social Media at 1pm at the Amery Area Community Center. We look forward to seeing you there. This is open to the public and free of charge.

FEBRUARY 10 Cupid’s Bake Sale Deronda Lutheran Church will host their Cupid’s Bake Sale at Bremer Bank in Amery, Friday, February 10 at 9 a.m.

Stop in for homemade treats for someone sweet.

FEBRUARY 11 ‘The Alzen Family’ in Concert Balsam Lutheran Church welcomes back “The Alzen Family,” Saturday, February 11 at 7 p.m. The family of eight from Roberts loves to use their fast pickin,’ tight-knit harmonies with their strong faith. A free will offering will be taken to help offset the cost. Bars and refreshments to following along with good fellowship.

FEBRUARY 14 Valentine’s Dinner St. Paul Lutheran Church in Deer Park hosts a Valentine’s Dinner from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Serving chicken alfredo, spaghetti, salad, candy and dessert for a free will offering.

3

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

CONTRIBUTED

Ice water rescue Members of the Amery Fire Department participated in ice water rescue training over the weekend. In this photo, Captain Ed White crawls to open water using a reach sling to remove Captain Trent Christensen from the water.

Both White and Christensen completed their training during Saturday’s event, hosted by Paul Vind and the McFarland Fire Department.

Singing Valentines Members of the Indianhead Chorus will spend their Valentine’s Day delivering singing valentines throughout the Amery, St. Croix Falls and Frederic areas. Cost is $30. To reserve your singing valentine call Duane Morris in the Amery area at 715-268-9063, Ken Mettler in St. Croix Falls at 715-483-9202, or Larry Fisk in the Frederic area at 715-4916711.

FEBRUARY 16 Ready made meals Come to the Community Center and have fun assembling at least 5 delicious and healthy freezer meals. The meals will serve 4-6 people. The cost is $37 and is open to the public. Register by calling 715-268-6605 or email Susan at aasc54001@yahoo.com.

FEBRUARY 18 Lincoln Day Dinner The Polk and St. Croix County Republican Parties invite you to a Lincoln Day Dinner with Governor Scott Walker and Congressman Sean Duffy at the St. Croix National Golf and Event Center in Somerset. Reception will be held at 4:30 p.m. followed by dinner at 6 p.m. Meal choices are beef or chicken for $30 per person.

Register online at stcroixrepublican.org or mail your check and dinner selection to Pat Peterson at 2004 110th Ave. Dresser, WI 54009. Call 715-7552644 with questions.

FEBRUARY 19 Presidents’ Weekend Dinner

Little Falls Lutheran Church will host a Presidents’ Weekend Dinner, serving Roast beef or pork, mashed potatoes, veggies, cranberries, rolls, dessert, and beverages for a freewill offering. Dinner will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Sunday, February 19. Carry outs available by calling 715268-9409.

FEBRUARY 26 Amery Lions Ice Fishing Contest Amery Lions will host an Ice Fishing Contest on Bear Trap Lake (South Shore Drive in Amery) from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sunday, February 26. Entry fee is $5 (kids 15 and under free) with prizes for each fo four divisions, and a grand prize drawing of $500, second prize $250, and third $100. More prizes and raffles after contest.

Skate to Defeat ALS Join Amery Youth Hockey in their support of families dealing with ALS (Lou Gehrig’s Disease) on Sunday, February 26 from 4 to 6 p.m. $5 per family to skate, rental available. Event also includes chuck-a-puck and raffle. Proceeds will be donated to the local ALS association.

APRIL 7 & 8

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)

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.

Amery Spring Show

Song Cirde

The Amery Free Press will host their 14th annual Amery Spring Show at the Amery Ice Arena, Friday April 7 from 5 to 8 and Saturday, April 8 from 10 to 5. Event features home, garden and recreation businesses from throughout the area. Call Pam now to reserve your space, 715-268-8101.

Song Circle meets the second Sunday of every month at the St. Croix Falls Public Library (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.

4 AMERY FREE PRESS

Never mind, Phil

OPINION

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

www.theameryfreepress.com

BY TOM STANGL FROM THE PUBLI SHER’S DESK

Last Thursday, Punxsutawney Phil, the official groundhog that predicts if spring will arrive early, saw his shadow, meaning six more weeks of winter.

The pageant and novelty of Groundhog Day is a nice, but all too brief distraction from the humdrum of mid-winter.

But how often does Phil get it right?

According to the folks who keep track of these things, Phil experienced three year slumps in his predictions twice: 1948-1950 and 2011-2013.

His longest accurate streak is 12 years, from 1958-1969.

In the records of the many groundhogs who have made the predictions there have been 99 of more winter and Publisher predictions only 15 predictions of an early Tom Stangl spring.

So, it’s probably a safe bet to go with “more winter.”

A Pennsylvania news outlet examined the rodent’s record over a 131 year period, and it turns out he is right about 65 percent of the time.

The folks that take care of Phil, “Seer of Seers, Sage of Sages, Prognosticator of Prognosticators and Weather Prophet Extraordinary” say that Phil is correct all of the time, if there is a mistake, it is due to a mistranslation of the prediction.

I imagine it is rather difficult to speak groundhog, and there is a lot of noise and commotion that takes place before the official prediction is made.

I can recall an old Warner Brothers Merrie Melodies cartoon about Groundhog Day, called “One Meat Brawl.” Grover Groundhog (they probably didn’t want to spring for the rights to Punxsutawney Phil) sings this song about seeing his shadow before using some very sophisticated equipment to make his prediction. As it usually does with cartoons, the groundhog ends up being hunted —

by Porky Pig of all people.

The groundhog becomes more like Daffy Duck or Bugs Bunny, tormenting Porky and his dog. It all ends happily.

In just about every winter, early February is the time when people begin to tire of the season.

Some folks go south for a few weeks or months, others embrace the winter and play in the snow.

It’s all a personal preference, but right about now, if the winter has been harsh (and this one hasn’t), people begin to get fed up with being indoors.

Since society and many debtors don’t readily accept human hibernation as viable lifestyle, we are all forced to find a way to carry on and push through until spring.

I take comfort in the fact that we are gaining daylight in the morning as well as the evening.

Slowly but surely, spring will return. During February, we gain two and a half minutes of daylight every day.

Yes, we will have six more weeks of winter, but we’ve already made it through what should be the worst of winter.

Yup, I probably just jinxed us by actually saying the words.

But I have an out — I can blame Punxsutawney Phil.

In the proud tradition of our society, I won’t have to “take the fall” for any bad weather that may or may not result from this column. I can simply say that it is the rodent’s fault.

When spring does finally arrive, it truly won’t matter what the groundhog said.

I prefer to focus on that happy day.

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.

Trump raises stakes for press, public

BY MARK PITSCH YOUR RIGHT TO KNOW

Two days before the new president’s inauguration, the Society of Professional Journalists and dozens of other media and government transparency groups sent a letter asking Donald Trump for a meeting to discuss his administration’s relationship with the press.

Among other things, the groups wanted Trump to Your right affirm his commitment to the to know First Amendment, assure meMark Pitsch dia access to his presidential activities, and allow expert government employees to talk to the media rather than muzzle them in favor of public relations officials.

Trump has yet to respond.

However, the new administration issued orders to employees of the Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Agriculture not to convey information to the media or public.

Officials also imposed a news blackout at the Department of Transportation.

Meanwhile, Trump claimed, with no evidence, that up to five million illegal voters participated in the election; his White House

spokeswoman used the term “alternative facts” to explain false claims that Trump’s inauguration audience was the largest ever; and chief strategist Steve Bannon called the news media an “opposition party” that should “keep its mouth shut”—views that Trump himself later endorsed.

All this happened within Trump’s fi rst two weeks in office.

Where does that leave us, as members of the press and guardians of your right to know what government is doing?

First, we must report on official efforts to withhold information from the public—which is, after all, footing the bill for government. On day one, the new administration scrubbed references to climate change from the EPA website (echoing similar actions by Wisconsin’s Department of Natural Resources and Public Service Commission). Expect more of the same.

Second, we must continue to be vigilant in the face of Trump’s tendency, fi rst as a candidate and now as president, to engage in bombast and exaggeration. It is our duty to expose unprovable, and outright false, claims.

Third, we must guard against politicians’ unwillingness to subject their actions to media scrutiny. It is our job to disclose what the administration is doing, even in the face of efforts to bypass the traditional White House press

corps.

As law professors RonNell Andersen Jones and Sonja R. West recently wrote in The New York Times, while the First Amendment prohibits government censorship and offers protection against lawsuits, journalists have few constitutional rights to government documents and sources, or from being maligned by people in power. Trump, they noted, appears set on blowing up the “mutually dependent” relationships the White House press corps has had with presidential administrations from both parties.

“This is why we should be alarmed when Mr. Trump, defying tradition, vilifies media institutions, attacks reporters by name and refuses to take questions from those whose coverage he dislikes,” they wrote.

It’s not just about the media. It’s about your right to know. To quote Jones and West, “Like so much of our democracy, the freedom of the press is only as strong as we, the public, demand it to be.”

Your Right to Know is a monthly column distributed by the Wisconsin Freedom of Information Council (www.wisfoic.org), a group dedicated to open government. Council member Mark Pitsch is an assistant city editor at the Wisconsin State Journal and president of the Madison chapter of the Society of Professional Journalists.

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.

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.

VIEWPOINTS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

5

Major changes may be coming to Medicare

BY TRUDY LIEBERMAN THINKING ABOUT HEALTH

What’s going to happen to Medicare?

That’s not an insignificant question given the political shift in Washington. Now, with Republicans controlling the presidency and both houses of Congress, some ideas they’ve been pushing for years have a chance of passing.

Thinking Those ideas would drastiAbout cally change Health the way Medicare works for Trudy those already Lieberman on it and those joining in the next few years.

Medicare is wildly popular, but that popularity doesn’t necessarily translate into understanding of a very complex program, what’s happened to it, and what may happen.

Writing about Medicare for nearly 30 years and watching it evolve, I’ve seen how easily Congress has already made big changes with hardly a peep from the press or the

public. The same could happen again. In this column I discuss a few of those possible changes gleaned from my decades of experience covering the program.

Since the election, there’s been talk of “voucherizing” or privatizing Medicare, an idea Republicans have been pushing for 20 years. Under a fully privatized arrangement Medicare would no longer be social insurance like Social Security but more like Obamacare with everyone eventually buying their coverage from private insurance companies.

Beneficiaries would receive a sum of money, likely to be called “premium support” instead of the more dire-sounding “voucher,” to help buy their coverage. The amount of support and how well it would keep pace with medical inflation would be buried in the details Congress would hash out.

Today, the government provides the benefits for hospital and physician care for most Medicare beneficiaries, but that could change with more privatization. There already is a lot of privatization in Medicare, and it came about step-by-step - usually with both political parties in agree-

ment and lots of buzz words like “consumer choice” to sell changes to the public.

The long steady march toward Medicare Advantage (MA) plans now used by about one-third of all beneficiaries and the prescription drug benefit are privatized insurance programs within Medicare.

Seniors in MA plans give up their traditional, standardized Medicare benefits for doctor and hospital services and buy them from insurers that receive subsidies from the government.

In a totally privatized arrangement, there may be no standardized benefits, and seniors would choose from a menu of insurance company options much the way drug plans are sold today.

It’s too early to say whether Congress will push for premium support this year.

Democrats have already signaled they will fight back. It’s more likely that other changes could slip through that would radically alter Medicare and force beneficiaries to pay a lot more for their care.

One of them is a change in the rules on balance billing: physicians charging seniors and disabled people on the program more than what Medi-

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR Can you believe it?

To the editor, Can you believe that one of our two political fi xtures has nearly sold our U.S.A. down the river toward political and economic ruin not once, not twice, but three times – not in the past century but in the present decade of the 21st century? Here’s how: The election of a president who was unfit for the highest office in the world, 2. The re-election of that person to a 2nd term during which he took our nation to the very edge of economic catastrophe and 3. the disintergration of the pathetic Tea Party and finally, setting the stage for the

emergence of a new leader who came to power by shouting (like Hitler) and carrying slander to a new height (or a new low?). The Party leadership asks us to trust our beloved nation and two centuries of democracy to its “care and feeding” for four more frightening years. Do you remember Ripley’s “Believe It Or Not”? This is it! CAN YOU BELIEVE IT? P.S. God help us! Amen.

Andrew Tetzlaff Korean War Vet Pastor since 1959

The Last Supper To the editor: If God wanted to feed the multitudes some jello He would need help.

So He asked some people from the news media and others to stir the jello and put it in the refrigerator. Well, they stirred and stirred and everyone wanted to stir the other guy’s jello. It never got put in the refrigerator. Some bowls were spilled and it was a real mess.

This is sort of like what is going on in our country today. Everyone wants to stir but no one wants to be cooled off.

God is trying to feed His people but there are too many cooks in the kitchen. We all have different ideas on what we want to eat, where dinner should be

and who should be invited. I wonder who will be at the last supper.

We are all made in the image of God. He is the one that formed and molds us. We are the one that fi lls the mold with good or bad and we can stir our own bowl of jello and others too. There comes a time when we are called by God to decide when to be put in the refrigerator to be formed into His image for keeps.

The love of Jesus can fi ll us when we are ready and are a willing empty vessel. We can come to Him just as we are.

Ted Zinn Amery, Wis.

care will pay. Most doctors accept Medicare’s payment as payment in full. Those who don’t can charge patients only 15 percent more than Medicare’s payment. This limit offers protection against the high balance billing charges patients with other kinds of insurance are facing.

The nominee for Secretary of Health and Human Services Tom Price is no fan of the 15 percent rule and once proposed eliminating it, which may explain why he has gotten such a strong endorsement from the American Medical Association. The AMA has called Price a leader in developing public policy to advance patient choice and “reduce excessive regulatory burdens.”

Many doctors who work with Medicare patients would like to charge as much as they want.

Congress may try to shift costs another way. The objective is to reduce what the government pays for beneficiaries’ care by making them pay more themselves. One solution is to combine the deductibles for hospital and physician care into one, and impose an out-of-pocket spending cap for beneficiaries still enrolled in traditional Medicare. Two-

thirds of beneficiaries are.

Currently no such cap exists.

(Seniors in MA plans do face such caps – last year as high as $6,700.)

If seniors in the traditional program also buy a Medigap plan, it’s possible they have what’s called “first dollar coverage.” That means medical expenses are covered from the beginning.

Congress has already begun to take that protection away.

Beginning in 2020 insurers can no longer sell certain Medigap plans that provide for the first dollar coverage beneficiaries want. However, if you have such a policy, you can keep it.

Medicare does face some long-term funding shortfalls, and so far the acceptable solution is to require that seniors pay more rather than raise taxes for everyone or impose cost controls with teeth, which doctors, hospitals, drug companies, and other healthcare providers don’t want. I will explore all that, including negotiating pharmaceutical prices, in a future column.

How do you think Medicare should change? Write to Trudy at trudy.lieberman@gmail. com.

A speech everyone should read

BY LEE H. HAMILTON

As a country, we make a habit of looking forward, not backward. But I’m going to ask you to turn your attention back a few weeks, to Barack Obama’s January 10 farewell address to the American people.

I’ve been reading presidential farewell speeches for many years. Most of them give good advice. This speech, however, was exceptional.

Why? To begin with, it is fi lled with confidence in ordinary people and respect for what workaday Americans can accomplish. This is a founding value of our country — both a promise and a call to civic arms. “Show up, dive in, stay at it,” Mr. Obama says.

“And more often than not, your faith in America and in Americans will be confi rmed.”

At the same time, he makes it clear that it’s challenging to make representative democracy work. As a nation, he argues, we have enormous potential — but we cannot take our success for granted. Indeed, our democracy is being tested right now by a disintegrating sense of common ground among Americans of different racial, ethnic, and class background, and by the growing ease with which people can retreat into “bubbles” — both geographic and ideological — in which we see only people we identify with and hear only information that fits our preconceived notions.

This makes the underpinnings of a successful representative democracy — the search for common ground, the

willingness to negotiate, the freedom to compromise — difficult if not impossible to pursue.

Yet what may be most striking about the farewell address is its optimism that we can overcome division and temporary steps backward. As you read this speech, it’s hard to avoid a sense of the basic strength of our country. There’s a celebration of the peaceful transfer of power, a straightforward discussion of race and ways to surmount the burdens that racial discord have imposed on our society, a magnanimity toward ideological adversaries, an underlying sense of inclusiveness and decency. These are wise words from a mature politician who clearly has confidence in the nation’s ability to forge ahead and meet its challenges.

I understand that a lot of people in this country don’t agree with former President Obama on many things.

But set aside the person who wrote it for a moment: this speech is instructive for all of us on what this country is all about and how we can make it better.

Lee Hamilton is a Senior Advisor for the Indiana University Center on Representative Government; a Distinguished Scholar, IU School of Global and International Studies; and a Professor of Practice, IU School of Public and Environmental Affairs. He was a member of the U.S. House of Representatives for 34 years.

6 AMERY FREE PRESS

RECORDS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

www.theameryfreepress.com

Superbowl Sunday marked by two crashes near Osceola

BY SUZANNE LINDGREN EDITOR@OSCEOLASUN.COM

Two serious collisions occurred within hours of one another last Sunday, the first on Highway 243 and the second on State Highway 35 between Osceola and Dresser.

Despite dry road conditions, a Mercury Milan westbound on Highway 243 hit the westbound guardrail shortly after crossing the Osceola Bridge at about 4:30 Sunday afternoon.

The driver, 25-year-old Danielle Lindquist of Hastings, Minn., reportedly overcorrected and traveled into the

eastbound traffic lane, colliding head on with an eastbound Dodge Ram pickup truck, according to the Minnesota State Patrol. The truck then struck the eastbound guardrail, went over the guardrail and rolled down the hill, stopping just short of icy marsh waters.

The driver of the Milan, who was not wearing a seatbelt, sustained life-threatening injuries and was transported to Regions Hospital.

The pickup truck driver, a 16-year-old male from White Bear Lake, Minn., received non-life-threatening injuries

SUZANNE LINDGREN | THE SUN

A Mercury Milan collided with a Dodge Ram at 4:30 Sunday afternoon. The Ram broke through the eastbound guardrail and rolled downhill, stopping just short of icy marsh waters.

CONTRIBUTED

A Chevy Silverado driven by Mickey L. Pugsley from Osceola crashed near Boyd’s Power Sports. Pugsley was cited for OWI after the crash which caused ‘incapacitating injuries’ to two juveniles in another car.

and was treated at the Osceola Medical Center. He was wearing a seatbelt.

The state patrol said a 24-year-old male from Minneapolis who was a passenger in the truck received life-threatening injuries, and that information would be released following family notification.

It is unknown whether alcohol was a factor in the crash.

At 6:18, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office received a call of a two-vehicle crash on Highway 35 south of downtown

Dresser, near Boyd’s Outdoor Power Sports, according to Captain Dale Hall.

One vehicle, a Chevrolet Silverado, was driven by Mickey Pugsley, a 56-year-old man from rural Osceola. He was injured and transported to the Osceola Medical Center and later taken into custody for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.

The other vehicle contained two adults and two juveniles.

The minors sustained “incapacitating injuries,” accord-

ing to Hall. It is unknown what type of injuries the adults received. Highway 35 was closed for approximately one half hour. The Osceola Police Department, Dresser Fire and first responders, Osceola Area Ambulance Service and Lakes Area Ambulance Service assisted onsite. The Sheriff’s Office will release more information on the crash as it is available.

Reports in Support of Probable Cause Polk County Sheriff’s Department Monday, February 6, 2017 Randall J. Arndt, 32, Somerset was arrested on January 27 for felony fleeing and OAR. Andrew J. Burhans, 24, Centuria was arrested on January 30 for possession of drug paraphernalia and felony bail jumping.

Andre A. Doby, 22, Frederic was arrested on January 31 for disorderly conduct.

Richard J. Lopez, 47, Osceola was ar-

rested on January 31 for trespassing.

Jenny A. Ralph, 38, Somerset was arrested on February 1 for bail jumping, battery and disorderly conduct.

Mindy K. Doll, 46, Osceola was arrested on February 2 for domestic disorderly conduct.

Casey L. Satter, 32, Centuria was arrested on February 3 for possession of meth and drug paraphernalia.

Taylor D. Hanson-Thompson, 21, Yucaipa, Cali. was arrested on February 5 for disorderly conduct.

Amery Police Report 1/27/2017 – 02/02/2017 01/27/17, 02:14AM, Assist EMS 01/27/17, 02:57PM, Criminal damage report 01/27/17, 04:20PM, Assist other agency 01/27/17, 06:09PM, Suspicious activity 01/28/17, 07:00AM, Assist other agency 01/28/17, 07:39PM, Assist with medical 01/28/17, 08:40PM, Disturbance 01/29/17, 07:38PM, Traffic complaint 01/29/17, 11:36PM, Suspicious activity 01/30/17, 03:34PM, Vehicle lockout 01/30/17, 04:05PM, Juvenile call 01/30/17, 04:25PM, Assist other agency 01/30/17, 06:22PM, Animal control call 01/30/17, 07:31PM, Emergency message call 01/30/17, 09:10PM, Assist other agen-

Shaye D. Strenke, 24, Rice Lake was arrested on February 2 for OMVWI 3, OAR, and ignition interlock violation.

Alfred W. Lietz, 58, Luck was arrested on February 4 for OWI 4.

Daniel J. Graham, 44, Cottage Grove, Minn. was arrested on February 4 for OWI 1 with minor in the vehicle.

Mark A. Leverty, 25, Balsam Lake was arrested on February 4 for OWI 1, OAR, possession of THC and drug paraphernalia.

Branden J. Nellessen, 30, Osceola

was arrested on February 4 for OWI 4.

Mickey L. Pugsley, 56, Osceola was arrested on February 5 for OWI causing injury (2+) and operating while revoked.

Buck A. Stauner, 33, Amery was arrested on February 6 for OWI 3.

Joyce M. Burhans, 54, Centuria was arrested on February 3 for probation hold.

Polk County Marriage Licenses Monday, February 6, 2017

cy 01/30/17, 10:35PM, Mental health call 01/31/17, 02:00PM, Juvenile call 01/31/17, 02:17PM, Suspicious activity 01/31/17, 07:32PM, Assist EMS 01/31/17, 09:24PM, Gas drive off 02/01/17, 02:08AM, Suspicious activity 02/01/17, 03:10AM, Suspicious activity 02/01/17, 09:00PM, Vehicle lockout 02/02/17, 02:55AM, Report of suspicious activity 02/02/17, 03:13AM, Arrest for OWI 3rd and Operating after Revocation 02/02/17, 05:50AM, Business alarm 02/02/17, 08:00AM, Traffic complaint 02/02/17, 01:44PM, Suspicious activity Arrests: Shaye D. Strenke, 34 of Rice Lake.

OWI 3rd, Operating After Revocation.

Jose Amado Gutierrez De Hoyos and Connie Ann Gallegos were issued a marriage license on January 25, 2017.

Tyler Daniel Funk and Heather Ann Strenke were issued a marriage license on January 26, 2017.

Eau Claire officer fatally shoots man EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (AP) — An Eau Claire police officer has fatally shot a man during a confrontation outside a hotel.

The Eau Claire Police Department got a 911 call Saturday morning about a man with a gun in the parking lot of Scottish Inns & Suites. The caller said the man was pointing the gun at passing vehicles and people.

Police say the fi rst officer who arrived found the 49-year-old man in the parking lot and, after a confron-

tation, shot him. Officers tried to revive him, but he died at the scene.

No officers or anyone else was hurt. The names of the 19-year veteran officer and the suspect were not released.

The officer is on standard administrative assignment. The La Crosse Police Department is investigating the shooting at the request of Eau Claire police.

YESTERDAY’S NEWS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

Amery News of 1890 The following is reprinted from the Amery Echo, dated Jan. 9, 1890.

On the 23rd day of July 1876, at Osceola Wis., Martha J. and John Shay were united in the holy bonds of matrimony. Two children aged eleven and eight years respectively, were the issue. Martha J. Shay yesterday filed her complaint in the district court, charging John Shay with having committed adultery with one Jennie Beecher, at Tipton and Cedar Rapids, Iowa, within the past three years, and praying for decree of divorce, together with the custody of the children, and a fair division of the defendant’s property.

Lumbermen are jubilant.

There is snow enough in the pineries to make good logging and the work goes merrily on.

The party at the Robbins House on last Friday evening was very well attended. Dancing was indulged in and a very enjoyable time was participated in by those present.

The Misses Nyke have removed their millinery store into the front rooms over Frank Brown’s meat market, where they will be pleased to welcome all their old and many new customers.

About ninety feet of the mill dam at this place washed away Monday night.

The coming summer will see a greater immigration into this part of the state than ever before.

Six weeks good hauling will allow jobbers to come out of the woods with something more than a “grub stake.”

105 Years Ago February 8, 1912 The delegation, which was sent to Balsam Lake Tuesday to secure the location of the proposed new asylum here, if possible, returned Wednesday evening. They report that no definite site was selected.

Nels Framsted, while crossing the Apple River above Amery last week, got one of his horses in the river.

The wind drifted snow over an air space making it impossible to see the condition of the ice. As a result, Mr. Framsted’s horse broke through and would have drowned had not help arrived in time.

Thirty-nine degrees below the zero mark was the coldest temperature recorded during the past week while 30 was the high for the week.

85 Years Ago February 4, 1932 Local Men Have Narrow Escape R. M. Houger and Frank Finney had a grueling and painful experience when returning from a business trip to the Twin Cities Friday night, in intense cold and blizzard conditions, which raged at the time.

Just out of Hudson they were stalled on the Burkhardt road, and after being shoveled out, turned around and drove to

Girl Scout Cookie Sale Girl Scout cookie representatives of the Amery Girl Scouts and Brownie troops, are shown presenting cookies to Palmer Sondreal at the Amery Free Press. Making the presentation are from left: Debbie Fredrick, Crystal Phillips, Brenda Johnson, Anna Gillstrom, Sandy Johnson, Melanie Terhark and Tricia Noah.

Just so you know - Girl Scout cookie sales begin February 11, 2017. Don’t forget to stock up on those delicious cookies and help out the Girl Scouts!

Baldwin expecting to stay there for the night but were unable to get into a hotel or other place of refuge and were forced to start for home at that extremely late hour over highway No. 46.

The roads were terrible and they were forced to shovel the greater part of the distance until they reached a point south of Deer Park. The two men were on the road from ten o’clock until after three in the morning. Both men were badly exhausted and chilled and Mr. Houger sustained a badly frozen foot and was forced to remain at home the first of the week. He was not among the delinquents at the “Monday Business Luncheon” even though he was forced to suffer considerable pain to get down.

Both men are recovering nicely. Mr. Houger’s frozen foot was the one, which was injured some time ago. This is the first time we have heard of Mr. Houger getting “cold feet” in any kind of a deal.

Conrad’s Grocery in New Building Conrad’s Grocery is now nicely settled in its beautiful new one, which by the way is one of the finest and most modern grocery stores in this section of Wisconsin.

The interior is beautifully decorated and the fixtures are of the very latest design for the display of merchandise and the convenience of the customer and the management. Mr. Nessen is to be congratulated for his progressive spirit and belief in the stability of the Amery community.

The building is equipped with the latest in heating and ventilating systems.

75 Years Ago February 5, 1942 Move Clocks Ahead 1-Hour Monday!

On Monday morning at 2 a.m. Amery will join the nation in putting daylight saving time into effect.

At that hour clocks will be turned one hour ahead. The

daylight savings law as passed by congress made the change mandatory for railroads, defense industries, etc., but not necessarily for civilian activity. However, the nation as a whole will follow the change, and Mayor Winchester said Amery will fall in line.

65 Years Ago February 7, 1952 How Not to Sell Chewing Gum If you are looking for some gum that students attending the Amery schools will leave around the house awhile…try Adams grape gum. There’s serious doubt whether most kids will even accept a stick today.

Let’s get back to the beginning of the story.

It all happened last Wednesday when, unbeknownst to school authorities, a salesman for the gum arrived at the local center of learning about noon and started to pass out sticks of his product like mad. Knowing youngsters, you can realize the tremendous hero’s welcome extended this “knight in shining armor.” But alas, his fame was short-lived.

Somewhere along the “grapevine” a slight question was raised as to the benefactor’s background. The why and wherefore of this philanthropic adventure began to spread like wildfire through the pupils in the elementary school.

As the talk progressed, it reached tremendous proportions. “Why, he may be a poisoner…a Russian spy trying to kill all of us…the gum was doped, he’s a dope peddler trying to make us his victims and so on.

“Spit it out!” was soon the cry on everyone’s lips when they observed anyone even so much as moving their lips the least bit.

And spit they did…all over the school. Mass hysteria gripped the youngsters and drove many of them to the verge of actual panic.

One child fainted from the experience, while some vomited and many others became

deathly sick from imagining what the gum contained.

Oh, yes, the janitors and the teachers will long remember the day too, for it will be a long time before all the wads of grape gum are discovered and thrown away. They sprayed the school like a heavy rainstorm.

Dogs Must be Kept on Own Property “If you want a dog in town, you’ve got to take care of them and keep them on your own land,” emphatically declared Chief of Police Art Phillipson this week.

The statement was prompted by several dog incidents within the city during the past week.

Chief Phillipson also pointed out that he is all through warning owners about their pets running around town. In the future, owners will be fined for their misbehaving critters.

60 Years Ago January 31, 1957 Building on “Last Leg” Another landmark on main street is rapidly disappearing these days. The former Lee’s Café building, one of the oldest remaining in the business block, is being razed to make way for the new Chet Johnson Drug store.

February 7, 1957 Freight Train Flagged Down at Wanderoos Soo Bridge Gerald Peterson, 17, is recovering at the ARVM Hospital from bruises and contusions suffered when his car left an icy curve in Wanderoos, struck a pole and came to rest, wedged in the railroad tracks about 2 a.m., Wednesday morning. He is a son of Mr. and Mrs. Clarence Peterson, Amery, route three.

Had the accident occurred but minutes later, the car would have been involved with the east bound Soo Line freight that wheels through Wanderoos about 2:20 a.m.

7

each morning.

Bruised and dazed, driver Peterson ran past the Art Martinson house in his search for help and ended up at the Ray Christenson residence. Fortunately, Eugene and Charles Martinson were arriving home at the same time and heard the crash and rushed to the scene.

They found it impossible to move the car. Hearing the approaching freight train, the Martinson brothers secured a flashlight from their car and another from their home and ran to the bridge, which spans the tracks west of Wanderoos.

In the Navy, stationed at Corpus Christi, Eugene was familiar with Morse code and flashed the S.O.S. It wasn’t, however, until he and his brother crossed flashlights that the train applied its brakes.

The freight train came to a grinding halt about 10 feet from the car on the tracks.

With the aid of the engineer plus Tom Olson and Tom Luke of Amery, the car was tipped over and removed from the rails.

55 Years Ago February 1, 1962 Schools Report Absentee Peak Reached Last Friday Students missing classes at the Amery schools are running two to three times the normal for this time of year, according to figures announced by L. L. Leadholm, dean of students at the high school.

Cause of the high rate of absence from classes is the flu bug, which has closed several schools in western Wisconsin, including Turtle Lake and River Falls last week.

High percentage of missing students occurred last Friday when 16 percent were gone from classes. The percentage figure is based on nearly 400 students attending the Amery High School.

Leadholm noted that the normal percentage for this time of year is five to six percent.

February 8, 1962 Young Man Found Dead in Woods Tom Luke, 21, a resident of this community, was found dead of a gunshot wound about 10:30 a.m., Wednesday morning.

An inquest into the circumstances surrounding the death is slated for Thursday morning, Feb. 8, at the Stenberg Funeral Home in Amery.

Sheriff Eugene Holmes made the discovery when the Luke car was found parked alongside a town of Alden road south of Wanderoos. He left home Tuesday morning and a search was being made for him.

He was found in a wooded area about 350 yards from the road with a gun lying near the scene.

The inquest was called following a consultation of medical and legal authorities.

8 AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017 www.theameryfreepress.com

PAYOUT: Four million of award to be shouldered by Polk Co. and its insurance comp.

FROM PAGE ONE

Polk County Jail from 2012 to 2014.

Christensen is currently serving a 30-year prison sentence at Dodge Correctional Facility in Waupun.

The civil suit also includes details of Christensen having had sex with at least one of the victims at the Amery Fire Hall.

Starting in 2015, civil cases were also filed by each of the five defendants, naming Christensen, Polk County, and its insurance company as defendants.

Thursday a jury concluded that the two plaintiffs proved their claims of eighth and fourteenth amendment violations, as well as constitutional violations by Polk County.

The jury also found sufficient evidence of negligent training and supervision practices at the Polk County jail.

Judge William M. Conley specifically noted ‘deliberate indifference’ on the part of Polk County jail administration when it came to following through on sexual complaints and investigations, and enforcing components of the Federally mandated Prison Rape Enforcement Act (PREA).

A thirty-page opinion rendered on January 3 by Judge Conley referenced statements and depositions from all levels of Jail leadership, including Sheriff Pete Johnson, his Chief Deputy, Steve Moe, and Jail Administrator, Captain Scott Nargis. The judge’s findings point to numerous missed opportunities for correcting inappropriate staff behavior and evidence that “jail administration turned a blind eye, and perhaps even fostered, a culture where inappropriate sexual comments were accepted as the norm.”

Polk County and its insurance company will be responsible for four million of the 11.5 million award. But considering sworn depositions given

by Polk County officers during recent proceedings, a damaged reputation of the Polk County Sheriff’s Department could be more difficult to quantify.

A checkered history The January 3 opinion sheds light on several incidents leading up to 2014—all of which should have been red flags to jail leadership.

In 2004 an inmate complained to Nargis and other officers that Christensen had entered a shower area while she was bathing and made sexual comments about her body.

Nargis spoke to Christensen about the complaints and essentially advised him that it would be in his best interest to avoid the area of the jail where that inmate stayed. No further action was taken.

In 2012, another jailer, Alan Jorgenson, was accused of in-

appropriate comments and contact with female inmates.

Nargis and Moe conducted an investigation resulting in a letter of reprimand in Jorgensen’s file, and the matter was closed. The investigation was reopened when five female coworkers came forward alleging inappropriate sexual

‘Jail administration turned a blind eye, and perhaps even fostered, a culture where inappropriate sexual comments were accepted as the norm.’

Judge William M. Conley in his January 3 Opion and Order

and an inmate’s right to report abuse without retaliation.

As Sheriff Johnson testified, he had no training in jail operations prior to becoming Sheriff in 2011, and that his training since then has been very limited. Johnson also testified that he does not handle the ‘minutia’ of running the jail, including training.

Sherriff Johnson admitted in his depositions that he was generally aware of the PREA, but “didn’t come anywhere to be[ing] an expert.” Johnson continued that he knew that sexual activity in the jail had to be acted on and investigated as soon as possible. He didn’t think Polk County could reach full compliance with the law because of fiscal concerns.

He knew that PREA required a compliance officer, but assumed that Nargis filled that role and that he would have had policies in place.

As soon as Christensen’s assaults came to light, Johnson testified as having told Nargis, “We need to get as much as possible in compliance.”

Chief Deputy Moe, who retired from the department in 2016 before depositions in the

ject of the PREA. Dietz provided the county with posters to warn inmates about their rights under federal law. Nargis testified that he didn’t display the posters because he was concerned that inmates might attempt to tunnel out behind them or hide contraband. When pressed,

me.”

Nargis testified that the county has not adopted every provision of PREA for various reasons. For example, jailers do not announce their presence when they enter living quarters because they want inspections to be unscheduled.

Polk County also has not adopted the recommended staffing because it was cost prohibitive, according to Nargis.

He testified that it would have cost Polk County an additional $600,000 in salary and benefits to staff the jail adequately for PREA, despite a national study estimating the annual cost of compliance to be $49,959.

‘Nargis testified that he didn’t display the [PREA] posters because he was concerned that inmates might attempt to tunnel out What next? rendered in behind them or hide theInfiarstjudgment two cases this December, Wisconsin County Mutual contraband.’

comments by Jorgenson. After Judge William M. Conley a second letter of reprimand, in his January 3 Opion and Order Jorgenson resigned. No further action was taken.

Nargis also testified that he Christensen named several was not aware of any real-life other jailers in his deposition incidents of inmates tunneling who would routinely engage in or hiding contraband behind sexual conversations with or posters, nor had he raised this about inmates. Nargis testified concern with Johnson that he’d heard Chrisor Dietz. tensen make similar Johnson added that he comments. He characwould ‘probably be disterized all of it as ‘typappointed’ if the postical tier talk’ amongst ers were not displayed employees that went because they are a cost back all of his sixteen effective means of eduyears, but clarified cating inmates. that he would not be Polk County’s sole part of it or tolerate means of inmate edustaff talking that way. cation on the topic has Through this, Judge historically been the inConley notes a reasonmate handbook, which able inference that the County failed to take JESSICA DE LA CRUZ | AMERY FREE PRESS states that an inmate’s only means to file a the threat of sexual ha- Darryl Christensen is escorted into the courtroom by grievance is to submit rassment and assault Captain Scott Nargis during his February 1, 2016 senby correctional offi- tencing. As Jail Administrator, Nargis shouldered much a form to the jailer on duty. cers seriously. of the blame for inadequate training policies for both In regards to staff He also argues that inmates and staff. training, Christensen the incidents with testified that he never Christensen in 2002 and Jorgenson in 2012 should civil proceedings, also testi- received training from Polk have placed [Nargis] on no- fied that he did not have any County that an inmate could tice as to the need for further specific training on the PREA, not consent to sex with a jailer.

As Judge Conley states, the or different training and the and did not know anything need to implement PREA-like about it beyond its general pur- only PREA-specific training for employees occurred in Febpolicies. pose.

Although Moe was noted as ruary of 2014, during the same being significantly involved time period of Christensen’s ‘Deliberate Indifference’ with supervision of jail staff, investigation. A scheduled Much of the court’s findings conducting investigations and training titled ‘Taser Re-Cert’ disciplinary was held, in which Nargis revolve around Polk County’s implementing failure to comply with the fed- procedures, he testified that briefly touched on PREA and erally mandated Prison Rape the responsibility for training what it was.

In an email sent to staff the Enforcement Act (PREA), fell on the shoulders of Jail Adwhich has been in place since ministrator Scott Nargis, who next day, Nargis states: “Seems to be that everyone has held the position since 2003. in in a tizzy to train their staff In the judge’s opinion, Polk 2000.

Department of Corrections on PREA. There is no requireCounty failed at a minimum to educate its inmates on their (DOC) officials have provided ment for us to be compliant right to be free from harass- PREA resources and training with everything that the law ment, what constitutes ha- information in writing, in- calls for, but nevertheless it is rassment, and how to report it cluding PowerPoint presenta- federal law. So we’ll hit the bawithout fear of retaliation. It tions, to jails statewide since sics of PREA training.

Do not allow/condone inapalso asserts that the Sheriff’s its enactment in 2003. But NarDepartment failed to adequate- gis could not recall ever hav- propriate conduct between inmates. ly train its staff in the basics of ing received those materials.

Do not allow/condone/enIn approximately the same PREA, such as who the PREA coordinator is, what consti- time period as Christensen’s gage in inappropriate contact tutes sexual harassment, how investigation in early 2014, between staff & inmate.

If someone (staff or inmate) to avoid inappropriate rela- Nargis and Johnson met with tionships with inmates, how Kristi Dietz of the Office of De- presents a concern about inapto detect and respond to abuse, tention Facilities on the sub- propriate contact, report it to

Insurance Corporation (WCMIC) was absolved of any obligation to defend or cover Darryl Christensen individually.

According to Polk County Corporation Counsel, Jeff Fuge, WCMIC will continue to cover Polk County’s liability in the matter. But it’s not yet clear to what extent.

An appeal of last week’s ruling and subsequent award remains a possibility, and is in the works from WCMIC’s standpoint, according to Fuge.

Lawyers representing Polk County did not respond to requests for comment in time for this article.

It’s not yet clear how the two judgments will impact the remaining three civil cases, which were filed later in 2016 and remain in litigation in U.S. District Court.

Those plaintiffs are represented by separate law firms.

On February 1, 2016, the same day as Darryl Christensen’s criminal sentencing, Sheriff Pete Johnson was asked about any changes that had been made in jail procedures or facilities. At that time he told the Amery Free Press that he didn’t have access to the full investigation yet, and said that a review couldn’t be completed until after the criminal case was concluded.

The Free Press awaits a more recent response on the matter, which was not received as of press time. Aside from the retirement of Chief Deputy Moe, all officials remain in their same administrative roles.

Lida Bannink, attorney for both plaintiffs commented after Friday’s decision, “Unthinkable tragedies happened to my clients and this verdict clearly sends the message that jails need to step up to protect those within their facilities from sexual assault. I hope that with this verdict the Polk County jail, operated by the Polk County Sheriff’s department, other local jails, and the Wisconsin legislature will take appropriate steps to protect inmates from assaults like these.”

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

9

County ends contract with Kinship mentoring program

BY SUZANNE LINDGREN EDITOR@OSCEOLASUN.COM

Polk County has opted not to renew its $38,000 contract with a local nonprofit mentoring program, Kinship of Polk County, for 2017.

With a history of at least some county funding since its inception in 1980, the Jan. 10 notification that Kinship would not receive funds this year came as a surprise.

‘The Kinship program will continue at the capacity it has.’

Lisa Thanig Executive Director, Kinship of Polk County

The amount cut, $37,993, was approximately 22 percent of Kinship’s projected annual income, according to the organization’s executive director, Lisa Thanig.

Gretchen Sampson, director of the county’s Community Services Division, said the decision to renew was a cost-saving measure.

“We had a very tight 2017 budget in the Community Services Division and face static or declining revenues in many program areas as well as continuing high costs incurred for children and adult placements,” said Sampson. “We support and value the work Kinship does in Polk County and

have provided resources to them on other potential grant and funding opportunities to explore.”

Rich Kammerud, a former Polk County Human Services director, founded Kinship in 1980. According to Thanig, county funding began then and increased over the course of Kinship’s operation to a high of $102,833 in 2001. Funding levels decreased in 2002, 2004, 2007, 2011 and 2013. From 2013 through 2016, Kinship was funded at $37,993.

Thanig will appeal to the Polk County Board of Supervisors in March, requesting a reversal of the decision.

County board members were told last year that the 2017 budget would keep funding for current county services in place. It was not immediately clear whether auxiliary organizations such as Kinship were meant to be included in that funding.

Whatever the board decides, Kinship “will continue at the capacity it has,” said Thanig. “We have several other revenue streams that will keep us moving forward.”

Thanig spoke to the program’s relevance, saying Kinship acted as a link in 360 mentor-mentee relationships last year and keeps a waiting list of children hoping to join.

“We currently have 21 children waiting for a mentor and we are working hard to recruit and train mentors for these kids,” said Thanig. “Community support is stronger than ever and our board and staff are dedicated and resourceful. We are looking into additional grants and are working on a

plan to increase donations on giveBig Day. We have also started planning our Annual Luau Fundraiser, which is always held on the fi rst Thursday of August. We are optimistic about these opportunities.”

Representative Adam Jarchow (R-Balsam Lake) visited Kinship of Polk County last week to present a proclamation from Governor Scott

Walker declaring January “Mentoring Month” in Wisconsin.

“It was my honor to present this proclamation from Governor Walker,” said Jarchow. “Mentoring has changed the lives of so many people, and has had such a positive impact on our communities. Thank you so much to Kinship of Polk County for their hard work and dedication to mentoring.”

Representative Adam Jarchow (R-Balsam Lake) visited Kinship of Polk County last week to present Governor Scott Walker’s proclamation that January be “Mentoring Month” in Wisconsin. In January, the nonprofit mentorship program found out its annual contract with Polk County would not be renewed.

Reviews mixed for rural school funding proposal Walker: Bad estimate for road costs no

BY JESSICA DE LA CRUZ EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

Multiple legislators have weighed in on Governor Walker’s proposals for funding rural schools in his 2017-19 biennial budget. Not surprisingly, the reviews have been mixed.

The proposal includes increased funding for sparsity aid and the High-Cost Transportation Aid program, expanded opportunities for teacher training and recruitment, increased flexibility in staffing through sharing services, and increased funding for Fab Labs.

State Superintendent Tony Evers applauded the Governor’s attention to the issue.

“For more than a decade, I have been working with leaders of rural schools and their communities to find ways the state can help them address the issues they face,” said Evers. “Many of the items included in the governor’s proposal originally came from that process and were included as part of the budget request I submitted.

“I am also encouraged by the piece included to help address the educator shortage experienced by many rural districts. But, to properly stem the tide of professionals leaving rural districts, the

state must provide a funding stream to equalize the differences between rural districts and their wealthier, often more urban, counterparts.”

Likewise, Representative Romaine Quinn was also optimistic about the proposal, but was quick to add that specifics of the funding sources would need to be looked at more carefully as to how they would apply to Northern Wisconsin.

“I believe this is a step in the right direction, and a win for the Rural Wisconsin Initiative,” said Rep. Quinn. “In the last budget, I added budget motions to protect consolidated school districts. Since then, the Rural Wisconsin Initiative has begun to bring the focus back to areas that are too often forgotten about in Madison. I applaud the Governor for bringing attention to the concerns of our local schools.”

Northern Wisconsin Senator Janet Bewley was critical of the proposal, however, calling it a drop in a bucket that already has a hole in it.

“Unfortunately, Governor Walker’s announcement pales in comparison to three budgets of school cuts, totaling $1 billion.

“Overall state aid, including the categorical aids noted in

the proposal, was less per pupil in our most recent school year than it was six years ago because of aid diverted to private schools. And property taxpayers are having to make up the difference,” added Bewley.

“Northern schools, and Northern property taxpayers, have taken the brunt of budget cuts to our schools.

Districts have had to go to taxpayers time and again to make up for deep cuts. Even worse – more diversions of state aid to unaccountable voucher and charter schools have put a hole in the bucket. Tax dollars that should be coming home are sent to private charter schools before our local public schools are even considered.

“Wisconsin taxpayers who work for a living will give $27 million to the statewide voucher industry this year alone.

“Instead of congratulating themselves on taking baby steps, it’s time for Republican leaders to plug the hole that is draining local schools that have been the foundations of our communities in the North for generations.”

reason to raise taxes

WAUWATOSA, Wis. (AP) — Gov. Scott Walker says he remains opposed to increasing the gas tax despite an audit last week that showed major highway projects in Wisconsin have cost more than initially estimated over the past decade.

The Republican governor said Wednesday that now is “not the time to raise any tax” because the state is seeing a big increase in tax collections.

The state audit released last

week found the Wisconsin Department of Transportation underestimated the cost of completed or ongoing projects by more than $3 billion.

The department faces a nearly $1 billion shortfall and Republicans who control the Legislature and Walker are at odds over how to fi x it.

Walker says he wants to know whether the underestimate of costs was due to staff miscalculations or market forces.

More than 240 schools to participate in voucher program MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin education officials say 241 private schools have signed up to participate in at least one of Wisconsin’s three voucher programs next school year.

State Department of Public Instruction officials said Tuesday that 163 schools registered to participate in the statewide program by the Jan. 10 deadline, including 11 schools that had previously participated in the Milwaukee or Racine voucher programs and 31 first-time appli-

cant schools.

DPI officials said 127 schools registered to participate in the Milwaukee voucher program, including five new schools and one school currently participating in the Racine program.

Twenty-three schools registered to participate in the Racine program, including four new schools. One of those schools is currently in the statewide program.

Some schools are participating in more than one program.

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

CLASSIFIEDS

10 AMERY FREE PRESS

Winter Special

FOR RENT

2 BR, 1 bath apartment

in Clear Lake Utilities included No pets Available NOW

715-643-6404 EHO

FOR RENT 460 SF secure storage space

Rear Shoppes of Amery

$250 per month Call Nate @ 715-441-1423

In Clear Lake

ALL UTLITIES INCLUDED!

Upstairs 1 BR unit available in March/April.

On-site laundry and huge storage lockers.

Rent based on 30% of income! For those 62+ or disabled of any age.

1-800-944-4866 Ext. 1125.

Equal Housing Opportunity

FEBRUARY 7, 2017 www.theameryfreepress.com

FOR RENT 4 bedroom, 2 bath, ranch house with finished basement $1000 month, utilities not included.

Located on north side of Amery. Two stall detached garage with a one stall tuck under Call 715-338-0647 for more information or schedule a viewing.

HELP WANTED Looking for full time Counter Person

Must have good customer service skills and have valid driver’s license, and clean driver record.

APPLY IN PERSON

Amery Auto Supply Inc. PARTS CITY AUTO PARTS 334 S. Keller Ave., Amery, WI 54001 715-268-7734

CHRISTIAN COMMUNITY HOME OF OSCEOLA Now has openings for the following positions: Regular PT Openings: CNAs • $500 Sign On Bonus All shifts available, ďƒ&#x;exible scheduling.

Housekeeper 20 Hours/Week • No Holidays

If interested please contact: Kristal Moen, Administrator CCH of Osceola, 2650 – 65th Ave., Osceola, WI 54020 715-294-1119 or kristal.moen@cchosceola.org Application available online at www.cchosceola.org

Now Hiring!

FOR SALE:

8 golf course lots located in Pondhurst, Amery, WI 54001 Also available attractive rural building sites.

Good Samaritan Society St. Croix Valley, is now hiring

Night Shift RN’s & LPN’s Competitive pay and 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.

WILL CONSIDER TRADE OF OTHER HOUSES

715-222-1706 Cell 715-268-6336 Home

NURSE PRACTITIONER/ PHYSICIAN ASSISTANT InterventionalPain Pain Specialists of Wisconsin is seeking a Nurse B Interventional Specialists of Wisconsin is seeking Practitioner or Physician Assistant to join ourtoteam providing Nurse Practitioner or Physician Assistant joininour team in comprehensive quality care to patients Rice Lake providing comprehensive quality care intoour patients in and our Rice Hudson offices.

Lake and Hudson ofďŹ DFT.

5hisThis position outgoing, professional position requires requires anan outgoing, caringcaring professional to provideto provide comprehensive patient assessment and support. You comprehensive patient assessment and support. You will work will work closely with thF Medical Director to provide closely with the Medical Director to provide comprehensive care comprehensive care plans via documenting medical/ plans via documenting medical/psychosocial history of patients, psychosocial history of patients, ordering diagnostic procedures ordering diagnostic procedures and medication, educating andpatients medication, educating patients regarding treatments and regarding treatments and interventional procedures, and interventional procedures, and providing follow-up care. providing follow-up care.

Candidates must be a graduate of an accredited program with Candidates must be a graduate of an accredited program with WI NCCPA or AANP certiďŹ cation, DEA registration and current NCCPA or AANP certification, DEA registration and current licensure.

WI licensure.

We offer competitive salaries, excellent beneďŹ ts, and a positive workWe environment offer competitive salaries, excellent benefits, and a positive work environment.

'PS DPOTJEFSBUJPO FNBJM ZPVS SFTVNF UP:

JQTXSFTVNF!HNBJM DPN

For consideration, email your resume to: ipswresume@gmail.com

8FCTJUF XXX QBJOTQFDJMJTUTPGXJ DPN Website: www.painspecialistsofwi.com &0& EOE

818724 10-30-16

Now Hiring!

Good Samaritan Society - St. Croix Valley, is now hiring a fulltime Maintenance Technician.

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.

C ertified Nursing Assistant Paid training available Are you looking for a new career path? Now accepting applications for individuals who want to become a certified nursing assistant.

NOW HIRING!

*Part-time Cashiers All Shifts

Stop by to fill out an application today North of Amery on Hwy. 46 715-268-7654

Deadline for the Classified page is Friday noon

Christopherson Eye Clinic has a part time opening for an office assistant/optician in our busy optometry practice. Optical experience is preferred, but we will train the right person.

The ideal candidate would possess strong organizational skills, the ability to multi task, sell our products and services and provide excellent customer service.

Computer skills are a must.

Please email resume and cover letter to eyedr@amerytel.net

N ow Hiring!

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

To learn more and to apply online, visit good-sam.com.

POSITIONS AVAILABLE

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-G1204

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

Farmington Mutual Insurance Company is looking for a part-time administrative assistant / bookkeeper.

June 9 (inservice day) through June 30, 2017; 8:00 a.m. to noon weekdays, plus one full day field trip.

Hours for this position are noon to 5 p.m., Monday-Friday. No insurance experience is necessary. However, some bookkeeping or accounting experience, along with a comfort level with Excel and other Word programs is. Please send resume to Mike Soldan, C/O Farmington Mutual Insurance Company, 264 Hwy 35, Osceola, WIÂ 54020.

Send completed applications to: Chris Petersen, Elementary Principal 135 Eighth Ave. Clear Lake, WI 54005. cpetersen@clwarriors.org

Applications available (teacher and para) online at www.clwarriors.org or can be picked up at School Offices.

Applications due by February 24, 2017

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS

Adoray Is Growing!

Testimonial from our Hospice Clinician: 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

Environmentalist fears Extinction of Public Lands

BY KITZ CLEARY, JOURNALIST AT LARGE

MENOMONIE -- Public lands could become as extinct as the passenger pigeon. That was the message delivered by environmentalist Jim Swanson at the monthly Community Conversations held in the Menomonie Public Library.

Public lands both in the state of North Team Wisconsin and nationally suffer (32 hours per week) from funding cuts, commercial enIdeal candidates will have a croachments, threats from industriminimum of two years RN al use and other forms of mismanexperience in a hospital, LTC, agement. A key element threatening Home Health, or Hospice setting. public lands is the decline in huntShould also have WI license ing and fishing, he said.

This job requires extensive Swanson, a member of the Wislocal travel consin Wildlife Federation board of directors, described the evoluFor detailed job descriptions on these tion of a pristine land under the positions, go to www.jobshq.com.

In the keyword search stewardship of native peoples to box, type Adoray the America of today where corpoSend resume to: rations offer to help underfunded T.Harrington@adorayhomecare.org or public lands if they get prominent mail to Adoray, 2231 Hwy. 12, Suite billing. Big name corporate name 201, Baldwin, WI 54002. 715-684-5020 plates and the right to name public lands.

Land and critters that had been respected by the native peoples as belonging to nature were turned into profit-making entities by the English and the Americans. Early settlers saw forests and wildlife as resources to exploit resulting mass extinctions.

Wildlife was harvested wantonly, Polk County offers careers that Matter stopping only when the passenger pigeon no longer darkened the skies Join us to make a difference, together we will as they passed in migration. Where strengthen our community! the native bison provided food and (includes every other We cannot function without great employees - talented, caring professionals are rewarded with a great, competitive total rewards weekend and every other pelts to native peoples, they were package. slaughtered to near-extinction by holiday) Economic Support Specialist — Government Center profiteering hunters. Other native KANABEC COUNTY species just quietly vanished. And Full-time - Non-exempt Position Starting Wage: $18.39 continue to vanish.

A specialized position receiving necessary training to determine Conflicting uses of public land eligibility, as well as provide ongoing case management for various exist today. For example, the prespublic assistance programs, including FoodShare, BadgerCare, etc.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, of 2222 the northern spotted 19 www.moraminn.com $1.00 (includes every other VOL. 131 NO.ervation NOTE—daily responsibilities will be divided between half of day in owl from logging. In Wisconsin, the call center and other half in office for case management and other weekend and every other wolf is blamed for vanishing deer related duties. Requires a minimum of an Associate Degree in a holiday) in northern ranges, Swanson pointrelated field and two (2) years experience utilizing investigative intered out. But, he said, much of their viewing techniques or related skills. Direct experience in determining Please stop in and talk to demise is due to reforestation in CITY eligibility for public assistance programs may bePINE considered.

Shelley for more details northern Wisconsin. Where once Deadline to apply: February 16, 2017 paper mills harvested timber leavYOU MUST COMPLETE AN ON-LINE APPLICATION TO BE ELIGIBLE. For complete job description, ing only grassland, the decline of position requirements, application, and details please visit our website at www.co.polk.wi.us, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 2222 paper industry has allowed the VOL. 131the NO. 19 www.moraminn.com $1.00 regrowth of trees.

Deer have aban215 Birch St. W, Amery doned the new forests for grasslands farther south.

In his initial remarks, Swanson told how President Ulysses Grant AMERY created the first public land when he signed an act of Congress creating Yellowstone Park in 1872. It was the THURSDAY, 2222 firstSEPTEMBER such 33,preserve on the planet but VOL. 131 NO. 19 www.moraminn.com $1.00 other countries imitated his act by creating natural parks of their own.

Theodore Roosevelt, America's premier conservationist, angered COUNTRY the wealthy and powerful by creating nearly 230 million acres of national parks and wild lands. An avid sportsman and hunter, Roosevelt THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 2222 said: “It is33, entirely in our power as Serving Marine-on-St. Croix, Scandia, May Township VOL. 131 NO. 19 www.moraminn.com $1.00 a nation to preserve large tracts of wilderness, which we value less for agricultural purposes and unfit for settlement, as playground for rich and poor alike.”

BURNETT COUNTY “Democracy is stronger when we have public lands,” Swanson said.

Through his presidency, Roos215 S. Keller Ave., PO Box 424, THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 2222 evelt’s determination to protect VOL. 131 NO. 19 www.moraminn.com $1.00 Amery, WI 54001 nature, reflected the attitudes of America’s native peoples, Swanson Phone 715-268-8101 said. email: dstangl@theameryfreepress.com The natives’ notion was that “Our

RN - Hospice

Join Our Team!

Amery Memory Care is looking for a full time afternoon Cook

TIMES

and a casual to part time (1-3 days per week) Dietary Aide

PIONEER

Subscribe to the . . .

FREE PRESS MESSENGER

Subscription Rates

Polk, Burnett, St. Croix and Barron counties,$30 per year Other Wisconsin and Minnesota $35 per year Other States $40 per year Students $20 nine months Service persons $25 per year

SENTINEL

FREE

FREE

ISANTI-CHISAGO

11

FREE

people should see to it that (natural lands) are preserved for their children and their children’s children forever, with their majestic beauty unmarred.”

The Roosevelt model of preserving nature in national forests, parks, monuments (Statue of Liberty), lake shores, riverways, seashores, trails, and grasslands exist in Wisconsin and other states. Here the Apostle Islands are a lakeshore preserve, the St. Croix and the Namekagon flow through 200 miles of national park, and the Chequamegon-Nicolet National Forest covers more than 1.5 million acres of forest.

Some of Wisconsin’s public lands were gifted by wealthy citizens.

Pattison State Park, south of Superior for instance, resulted from plans to destroy Big Manitou Falls and build a power dam on the Black River. Martin Pattison plotted to defeat the project when he secretly bought property from land owners along the river and donated the land to the state to save it. The area became Wisconsin’s sixth state park in 1920.

Public lands attract 175 million visitors per year Swanson said.

“That generates an awful lot of economic activity.”

But the privatization of some public park services, such as commercially run hotels and privatecontractor restaurants, have taken funds that the parks once used to maintain the park and exported the profits to private owners. Swanson forecast the day where private naming rights for corporations are just a short step from corporate ownership of the nation’s public lands.

“It’s a very short hike from 3M sponsoring land to owning public land,” he said.

Climate change has also taken a toll. Swanson said that half the annual budget of the National Forest Service went to fighting fires largely caused by drought.

And in Wisconsin, cutting funds to support public lands starve them of needed resources. Lacking public funds for support requires parks to raise user permit fees to maintain sites, trails, and so on. The state is looking to private sponsorships, Swanson said, because it is impossible to run parks on user fees.

State fund cuts mean the Red Cedar Trail in Menomonie, for instance, has no employees to monitor bikers for tickets. With no one to check for tickets, bikers ride the trail for free, further cutting funds for trail maintenance.

Swanson sees the decline of hunting as another serious threat to the future of public lands. Hunters are growing older and it is they who use and support the land. It was hunters and conservationists responsible for the Clean Water and the Clean Air act.

“Outdoorsmen – especially out west – are really upset. They understand the value of public land because they use it,” Swanson said.

Public land is their livelihood. They work as hunters and guides, and Swanson is worried about their future as well as that of public lands.

“Who’s going to advocate for that land?” he asked.

PUBLIC NOTICES

12 AMERY FREE PRESS

LEGALS/PUBLIC NOTICES

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

www.theameryfreepress.com

DATCP releases Top Ten Consumer Complaints of 2016 MADISON – Threatening phone calls about unpaid taxes. Calls offering to lower your credit card interest rate. Fake tech support calls warning about problems with your computer.

Wisconsin consumers' phones were attacked in 2016 by imposters looking to steal money or personal information. Telemarketing calls topped the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection's (DATCP) list of consumer complaints for 2016, and it is obvious these malicious imposter calls had a striking effect on the overall count. DATCP received 3,685 telemarketing complaints last year, an increase of nearly 45% over 2015.

"We heard from consumers, loud and clear, that these phone calls were a troubling and unwelcome interruption in their daily lives last year," said Frank Frassetto, Division Administrator for Trade and Consumer Protection. "The crooks behind these calls have no regard for your schedule or piece of mind and will use any trick to convince you to turn over money or personal information."

Scam calls claiming to come from the Internal Revenue Service or United States Treasury were the leading imposter calls in 2016, followed by "Card Services" credit card reduction and computer tech support calls (commonly known as "Microsoft tech support" scams).

"Phone scammers can 'spoof' or change what displays on your caller ID, so that information may not be trustworthy," said Frassetto. "Don't engage with questionable callers and report the calls to DATCP so we can track these operations and warn others," said Frassetto.

DENTAL ARTS, S.C. Family Dentistry Members American Dental Association

"When consumers report their experiences with fraudulent calls by filing a complaint, we are able to share this information with our federal partners," said Frassetto.

"A recent crackdown on a major IRS phone scam operation in India is a prime example of how the information gathered at the state level can help build a case against operators both within our country and abroad."

One promising highlight from the 2016 complaint list is the significant drop in identity theft complaints (fourth on the list, down from third in 2015). Wisconsin consumers filed 431 identity theft complaints with DATCP in 2016, down almost 48% from 2015. 75% of identity theft complaints in 2016 involved tax-related identity theft (where a fake tax return is filed using a victim's identity).

"A consumer's best protection against identity theft is to take additional precautionary steps like limiting the amount of information they share unnecessarily and using two-factor authentication and complex passwords for online accounts," said Frassetto.

Landlord/Tenant complaints dropped significantly in 2016 but remained in the number two slot on the list. Complaint allegations typically included disputes over security deposits, unauthorized entry, inadequate disclosures and evictions.

"The key to a productive relationship between landlords and tenants is to keep an open dialogue and to understand each party's rights under the law," said Frassetto.

To help both parties stay abreast of changes in residential laws, DATCP offers a comprehensive Landlord/Tenant Guide that out-

lines state laws regarding landlord/tenant relations. This free document is available both on the DATCP website and by calling the Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-422-7128.

Telecommunications-related issues moved up one spot to number three in 2016 despite a decrease in complaints. The telecommunications category includes bundling of services, cellular phones, internet service providers, long distance services, and satellite and cable television. Misrepresentations and excessive or unauthorized charges were the main issues expressed in the complaints.

Home improvement remained at number five on the list in 2016.

Some of the major factors in home improvement complaints included allegations of misrepresentation, failure to honor contracts, workmanship and theft.

Rounding out the top ten for 2016 were the gas pump accuracy (6th); motor vehicle repair (7th); motor vehicle sales (8th); computer and equipment (9th); and warranties (10th) complaint categories.

"In reviewing 2016 complaints for common themes, it's clear that there are best practices consumers should follow," said Frassetto.

"Don't give out your personal information over the phone or wire money to a stranger, refuse high-pressure sales pitches, request all information in writing, and read the fine print before you sign."

For additional information on the Top Ten Consumer Complaints of 2016 list or to file a complaint, visit the Consumer Protection Bureau at datcp.wi.gov, call the Consumer Protection Hotline at 800-422-7128, or send an email to datcphotline@ wisconsin.gov.

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

Town of Clear Lake

The Regular meeting of the Town of Clear Lake will be held at the Town Hall on Monday, February 13, 2017, at 7:00 p.m.

AGENDA: 1. Meeting called to order 2. Reading and approval of last meeting’s minutes 3. Treasurer’s Report 4. Chairman’s Report 5. Approve payment of monthly bills 6. Ordinance Commission Report 7. Old Business: 8. New Business: -Town Fee Schedule 9. Road Maintenance 10. Adjourned Janelle Johnson, Town Clerk WNAXLP

BUSINESS AND PROFESSIONAL DIRECTORY

D. P. Doroff, D.D.S. J. J. Lampi, D.D.S. A. G. Ott, D.D.S. T. P. VanSomeren, D.D.S. 404 Wisconsin Ave. Amery, Wis. Phone 715-268-7177

REGULAR MEETING

Christopherson Eye Clinic Vision Examination Contact Lenses

Provider for Medicare, Medicaid and most insurances

Certified Public Accountant Accounting • Tax • Retirement Services

341 Keller Ave. N Amery, Wis. 54001 Phone 715-268-2020

rd

433 3 Ave, Clear Lake, WI • (715) 263-4111 • www.OverbyFinancial.com

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

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.

Whitley and Bergmanis FAMILY EYE Novitzke, Gust, Sempf, Attorneys-at-Law CLINIC DON PAUL NOVITZKE JASON W. WHITLEY Dr. Daniel C. Satterlund

River Place Dental

(1937-2004)

GERALD N. GUST *ERIK M. BERGMANIS *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

LEGALS/PUBLIC NOTICES

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

Former governor works on health care changes MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Former Wisconsin Gov. Tommy Thompson says he's working with top Republicans in Washington to deconstruct the Affordable Care Act. Former President Obama's signature 2010 law covers about 20 million people nationwide, including 3.5 million in Wisconsin, according to the state Department of Health Service.

Thompson, who served as the secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services under former President George W. Bush, says he met with U.S.

House Speaker Paul Ryan and Tom Price, President Donald Trump's pick to lead the department, The Capital Times reported.

Thompson said it's paramount to pass health care reforms before the 2018 election season. He said he has confidence and faith in Trump and Ryan to take advantage of the historic Republican majorities in Congress.

“The path forward is going to find individual bills,” Thompson said.

He said those bills and some administrative rules changes will most likely be how Obama's health care law is decon-

structed.

Republicans will then have to agree on what a new health care model would include and rebuild it, Thompson said.

The law's critics say it hurts individuals and businesses, pointing to health insurance premium increases, and note people are forced to obtain it or pay a fine. Supporters say the law has led to more people being covered with health insurance and has enabled coverage for people who

have had difficulty getting it in the past, such as individuals with pre-existing conditions.

During his talk at a WisPolitics luncheon in Madison on Tuesday, Thompson also said a shift to a block grant model for the federal Medicaid program is on the horizon. Under such a model, states would get a fixed amount of money and decide for themselves how to best spend it instead of billing the federal government.

TOWN OF LINCOLN NOTICE OF TOWN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS MONTHLY MEETING The Town Board of Supervisors Monthly Meeting of the Town of Lincoln will be held on Thursday, February 9, 2017 at 7:00 p.m. at the Lincoln Town Hall -- 661 85th Street.

MONTHLY MEETING AGENDA 1. Call Meeting to Order 2. Verification of Meeting Posting 3. Approval of Agenda 4. Approval of Minutes of Previous Meeting 5. Public Comment 6. Minor Subdivision for David & Dawn Lundgren 7. Presentation By Lee Shambeau, Representative From 4Control, About Weed Control Products & Application 8. Volga Cemetery Request for Funds 9. Reports: Treasurer, Clerk, Road Work Issues, Plan Commission 10. Presentation and Approval of Bills 11. New Business 12. Unfinished Business 13. Adjourn. *Action may be taken on any agenda item* Stephanie Marciniak, Clerk 715-268-4747 Published February 7, 2017 - Amery Free Press

13

Apple River Protection and Rehabilitation District (ARPRD) Board of Commissioners Meeting Saturday Feb. 18, 2017 9:00 a.m. Ida Mae’s Café Back Room, Amery, WI AGENDA 1. Call to Order/ Set the Agenda/ Recognize Official Notice of meeting 2. Members and Others Present 3. Reports: A. Approval of the July 23, 2016 minutes B. Approval of the Treasurer’s Report 4. Action Items: A. Update on awarded grants and applications 1. 2016 harvesting report submitted 2. 2016 CBCW grant project completed; final payment received 3. 2017 CBCW grant project submitted 4. 2016-17 Healthy Lakes projects -4 completed; application submitted 5. 2017-18 Healthy Lakes Project -5 projects submitted 6. 2017 Surface Water Grant application submitted a. To update the APM Plan b. APM Plant survey conducted in summer 2016; report coming 7. 2017 Weed Harvesting Application a. Submitted in Nov. 2016 b. Must be approved by the DNR and Tribal Council B. Approval of the Audit Committee’s Final Report for 2016 C. Update regarding the rental/ purchase of additional harvesting equipment D. Discussion on 2017 activities, issues, concerns E. Update on equipment insurance, truck license, other harvesting issues 5. Adjournment WNAXLP

Schone’s Tax Service LLC

2152 Hwy. 63, Deer Park

Tax Preparation Starting at $35 per return

Over 40 years experience Hours Monday-Saturday 8 a.m.-8 p.m.

Call 715-263-2435

WNAXLP

Child Development Days

A resolution we can help you keep A New Year has arrived and it’s the perfect time to make a resolution — to plan for your financial future. Now is the right time to find an experienced financial advisor that’s committed to helping you create a comprehensive financial plan with your goals in mind.

Whether you want to review an existing plan or create a new one, I’m committed to helping you keep that financial resolution. Working together, we can create a personalized plan that identifies your life goals for this year and beyond. Contact me today to learn more about how we can take the next step toward building your financial plan.

(Free preschool screening)

What is Child Development Days?

Pat Gherity Financial Advisor 715-268-3297

Free preschool developmental screenings held throughout the community.

Watch your mail for more information, then attend your choice of screenings listed below.

Who may attend?

Children who reside in the School District of Amery with birthdates between: September 15, 2013 – December 31, 2014 We also welcome preschool children of any age to attend a screening if there are concerns about vision, hearing, and/or general development.

Where and when?

Watch your mail for more information, then attend your choice of screenings.

No appointment necessary. · Tuesday, February 7th at the Amery Public Library, 3:00pm – 6:45pm · Thursday, February 9th at the Amery Public Library, 3:00pm – 6:45pm

Have questions or didn’t receive a mailing? Call Becky at 715-268-9771 x 337

Amery • 715-268-7161 New Richmond • 715-246-5711 Bremer.com

Securities are offered through Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. member FINRA/SIPC. Securities are not insured by bank insurance, are not deposits, obligations or guaranteed by the bank and are not insured by the FDIC or any other government agency and are subject to risks, including the possible loss of principal. Investment advisory services are offered through Raymond James Financial Services Advisors, Inc. Bremer Investment Services and Bremer Bank are independent of Raymond James. Be sure to consider all of your available options and the applicable fees and features of each option before moving your retirement assets. Bremer Investment Services, 8800 Hwy. 7, St. Louis Park, MN 55426, 800-908-2265 ResolutionsGherity.indd 1

1/13/17 3:30 PM

14 AMERY FREE PRESS

LEGALS/PUBLIC NOTICES

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

www.theameryfreepress.com

THANK YOU

THANK YOU

CARD OF THANKS

The family of LeRoy Monio would like to thank the staff at Willow Ridge Healthcare and Dr. Ann Seagren for the great care dad received. Thank you to Adoray Home Health and Hospice for all you did for him and the kindness you extended to the family during his passing.

We would like to thank Skinner Funeral Home, Parkview United Methodist Church and Pastor Sudhama Ananda for the care and love put into his visitation and funeral arrangements. Thank you to the United Methodist Women for the wonderful lunch that they served. Thank you to the family and friends of LeRoy for their thoughts, prayers and love they gave to the family. We would like to thank Jennie-O, Saputo Cheese, Adoray Home Health and Hospice and family/ friends that sent plants/flowers received in memory of LeRoy. Sincerely, The family of LeRoy Monio

We would like to thank Miki Jo and staff for the benefit they did for our family, the kindness and love we cannot express.

Also like to thank Ed and Tyler with Williamson-White Funeral Home; they go above and beyond to help with everything.

Also also all our friends and family. We would not get through another loss like this without the love and support of everyone. There aren’t words to express our love and appreciation for you all!

Thank You. We love you all!

The family of Cody Handrahan

While I was a patient at Amery Hospital and Regions, I express many, many thanks to the EMTs for their quick response, all their help and concern. I extend very special thanks to my family who all did everything possible and for which I’ll always be grateful.

I sincerely thank Father John and Father Ron for their visits and prayers. Lots and lots of thanks to relatives, friends and neighbors for their prayers, visits, cards, food brought to the house etc.

I thank the nurses for their kindness, comfort and caring and the doctors.

It seems to me there are so many good, kind people.

May God bless all of you.

Joleen Hanson

THANK YOU

Fishing fun on Lake Wapogasset during the Wanderoos Area Community Club’s annual ice fishing contest

Dear Friends, Just a little note to say Thank You for the opportunity to help you with your Post Office needs for the past 25+ years.

I will miss seeing all the faces of family and friends that walk through that front door.

It is a pleasure to be able to greet so many of you by name. I will miss that.

Thanks again. It’s been a “great run.” Stop in on Friday, Feb. 10, for cake on me!

Fondly in Retirement, Julie Schanon

PUBLIC NOTICE

Electronic Ballot Tabulation

Wanderoos Area Community Club held their annual Ice Fishing Contest on Lake Wapogasset Saturday, Feb. 4.

Thank You . . .

Wanderoos Area Community Club would like to thank everyone who joined us for our fishing contest held on Lake Wapogasset for the 28th Annual Ice Fishing Contest. We would also like to thank local businesses that donated door prizes, and a big thank you to all of our contest sponsors:

Bremer Bank, Chet Johnson Drug Store, Clear Choice Printing, Jim’s Auto, Leadholm Insurance, Irlack’s Outdoors, Russell’s Sport and Bike, Slumberland, St. Croix Outdoors, True Value, UW Wanderoos, Wolter’s Shoreview

Thank You!

Wanderoos Area Community Club would like to thank all the kids and parents for bringing kids that participated in our kid’s fishing contest held February 6th.

About $1200 in prizes were given away with 98 kids participating.

Congratulations to the parents and to the kids!

The following businesses all helped to make this contest another memorable one!

Star Prairie Fish & Game, Gibby’s Lanes, Central Auto Body & Repair, Polk County Sportsmen, Russell’s Sport and Bike, Balsam Lake Rod & Gun, Panfish Plastics, Dave’s Service, Cattle Connection, Main Street Pizza, Bernick’s Pepsi, Frontier Ag & Turf, 46 Bait Store, Irlbecks’, Wanderoos Area Community Club (WACC)

Under Wisconsin State Statute 5.84(1), public tests of the electronic ballot tabulation system will be held to ascertain that the equipment will correctly count the February 21, 2017 Spring Primary Election votes cast for all offices and on all measures. All tests are open to the public.

City of Amery - Thursday, February 16 at 2 p.m.

City Municipal Council Room, 118 Center St. W, Amery Fran Duncanson, Clerk, 715-268-7486

Village of Clayton - Monday, February 13 at 6 p.m.

Clayton Village Office, 111 Clayton Ave. W, Clayton Dave Fall, Clerk, 715-948-2460

Village of Clear Lake - Tuesday, February 14, at 10 a.m.

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

Town of Apple River - Thursday, February 16, at 2 p.m.

Town Hall, 612 US Highway 8 (Range), Amery Lisa Carlson, Clerk, 715-768-5002

Town of Beaver - Wednesday, February 15, at 6 p.m.

Town Hall, 1541 Cty. Hwy. T, Turtle Lake Wendy Coleman, Clerk, 715-986-4725

Town of Black Brook - Thursday, February 16 at 6 p.m.

Town Hall, 99 75th St., Clear Lake Sally Pickard, Clerk, 715-268-2926

Town of Clayton - Tuesday, February 14, at 6 p.m.

Town Hall, 462 105th Ave./Cty. Rd. D, Clayton Tracy LaBlanc, Clerk, 715-948-2036

Town of Clear Lake - Tuesday, February 14, at 10 a.m.

Home Office, 209 50th Ave., Clayton Janelle Johnson, Clerk, 715-948-2189

Town of Garfield - Thursday, February 16, at 10 a.m.

Town Hall, 690 Minneapolis St., Wanderoos Sue Knutson, Clerk, 715-268-4414

Town of Lincoln - Tuesday, February 14 at 10:30 a.m.

Town Hall, 661 85th St., Amery Stephanie Marciniak, Clerk, 715-268-4747

Town of Vance Creek - Monday, February 15 at 2 p.m.

Town Hall, 174 2nd Ave., Cty. Hwy. A, Reeve Marge Marlett, Clerk, 715-948-2670 Glennis Lynch, Deputy Clerk, 715-455-1432

WNAXLP

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

LEGALS/PUBLIC NOTICES

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

AMERY CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS

January 4th, 2017 The City of Amery met for a regular meeting on January 4, 2017 at City Hall. Mayor Kay Erickson called the meeting to order at 5:00 p.m.

Present: Erickson, Rick Davis, Kristen Vicker, Julie Riemenschneider, Rick Van Blaricom, Tim Strohbusch, and David Myers.

Staff present: Darcy Long, Fran Duncanson, David Chanski, Tom Marson, Dale Koehler, James Nalen, Chanz Green, and Bones McCarty.

Others present: Larry Stelter, Bob Zank of WPCA, Jessica de la Cruz of the Amery Free Press, Gloria Lansin, Malia Malone, Kate Murtaugh, and Tim Laux.

Roll call was taken by Clerk Duncanson.

Rick Van Blaricom led the Pledge of Allegiance.

Motion by Myers and seconded by Strohbusch to approve the minutes of the November 17th, 2016 City Council meeting.

Ayes-6 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Officers Reports Police Chief - Marson: Gave the activity reports for November and December with the annual report to be presented at the February meeting. The K-9 vehicle is being outfitted and the new squad will be delivered later in February. Marson reminded that handicapped parking is for those with the proper permits displayed.

DPW Director - McCarty: We do not do Christmas tree pickup, but if it is out at the curb we will get it.

Another option is to bring it out to the landfill during business hours until 4:00 p.m. If you have needed to run water in the past to prevent freeze ups, you may do so again but please notify City Hall when you do.

There have been two water main breaks so far this year. There have been lots of calls about the ice on the streets. Sanding has been done but is blowing off. We are using hotter mix and not neglecting any streets on purpose.

Library Director - Nalen: School will be off January 20th and the library will have live raptors. A new service the Library is offering is Flipster electronic downloadable magazines with 25-30 titles available.

2016 circulation numbers are slightly up over 2015.

It is becoming more common for people to bring their own computers and use the library Wi-Fi. Fire Chief - Koehler: The December run report is in the packet. The Fire Dept. responded to 487 calls in 2016. Thank you to all the firefighters who answer the call as volunteers. The Dept. collected Toys for Tots in December and collected the most for one location in Polk County. Dept. members did bell ringing for the Salvation Army at Dick’s Market.

City Administrator - Long: Stated the first day back to work from paternity leave was yesterday.

Long reminded people to pick up your garbage off the ice. Marson reminded there is no parking at the boat landing area.

Management Analyst - Chanski: The Walkability Study conducted analysis and policy alternatives and now the goal is to give the presentation in February. The RFP for audit services is due January 9th for Finance Committee review. Tomorrow is the DOT public information meeting on the road diet, purpose, congestion, accidents, and accessibility.

DOT will present proposed road improvements with a timeline and then take public comments. The goal is to calm traffic, slow down, and improve safety issues for pedestrians and cyclists.

Committee Reports: None New Business Motion by Myers and seconded by Van Blaricom to approve Ordinance 1-2017 “To Amend the Code of the City of Amery Chapter 2-4 Boards, Commissions and Committees” with the purpose to establish a Tourism Commission in accordance with 2015 Wisconsin Act 55 with the revision of replacing the past president of the community club with a member of AEDC for composition of the commission.

Ayes-6 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Vicker and seconded by Strohbusch to approve Ordinance 2-2017 “To Amend the Code of the City of Amery Chapter 3-1-20 Room Tax” Ayes-6 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Van Blaricom and seconded by Strohbusch to appointment Riemenschneider as the Alderperson representative to the Tourism Commission for a one-year term.

Ayes-5 Nays-0 Abstain-Riemenschneider Motion carried.

Motion by Strohbusch and seconded by Riemenschneider to approve Resolution 1-2017 “International Migratory Bird Day” Ayes-6 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Strohbusch and seconded by Riemenschneider to approve alcohol operator’s licenses for Yager and Dunham.

Ayes-6 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Davis and seconded by Vicker to go in to closed session proceedings at 6: 06 p.m. under WI §19.85 (1)(c) to consider employment, promotion, compensation or performance evaluation data of any public employee over which the governmental body has jurisdiction or exercises responsibility.

This is in regards to the City Administrator position.

Roll call vote: Ayes-Van Blaricom, Davis, Vicker, Erickson, Myers, Riemenschneider, and Strohbusch.

Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Myers and seconded by Strohbusch to come out of closed session at 7:09 p.m.

Roll call vote: Ayes-Van Blaricom, Davis, Vicker, Erickson, Myers, Riemenschneider, and Strohbusch.

Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Myers and seconded by Vicker to acknowledge the City Administrator review has been completed, to honor his contract, and designate a pay increase of 2.5% retroactive to June 15th, 2016.

Ayes-5 Nays-1 (Strohbusch) Motion carried.

Motion by Vicker and seconded by Van Blaricom to table and take to Finance for review and forward to City Council for recommendation and possible action in February whether or not to amend the2017 General Fund budget to fund the hiring of an organizational consultant.

Ayes-6 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Agenda item #15 regarding a request for proposals for the hiring of an organizational consultant was not discussed or acted on.

Motion by Strohbusch and seconded by Van Blaricom to adjourn at 7:15 p.m.

Ayes-6 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Frances Duncanson, City Clerk

WNAXLP

SPECIAL AMERY CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS January 18th, 2017 The Amery City Council met for a Special Meeting on January 18, 2017 at City Hall in Council Chambers. Mayor Kay Erickson called the meeting to order at 5:20 p.m.

Present: Erickson, Rick Davis, Julie Riemenschneider, Kristen Vicker, David Myers, Rick Van Blaricom, and Tim Strohbusch.

Staff present: Fran Duncanson Other present: Larry Stelter, Tom Revnew, Tom Stangl of the Amery Free Press, Bob Zank of WPCA, and Matt Johnson.

Roll Call was conducted by Clerk Duncanson.

Rick Davis led the Pledge of Allegiance Motion by Van Blaricom and seconded by Davis to change the order of the agenda and move up for action agenda items #6-7-8.

Ayes-6 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Davis and seconded by Vicker to approve an agreement with Carole Wondra to provide WisVote and election related services.

Ayes-6 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Strohbusch and seconded by Van Blaricom to approve an agreement with Cheryl Slind to provide accounting services.

Ayes-6 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Strohbusch and seconded by Davis to send out request for proposals for the hiring of an Organizational Consultant.

Ayes-6 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Strohbusch and seconded by Riemenschneider to go in to closed session proceedings at 5:30 p.m. under WI §19.85 (1) (c) to considering employment, promotion, compensation or performance evaluation data of any public employee over which the governmental body has jurisdiction or exercises responsibility. This is in regards to the City Administrator and City Clerk-Treasurer/Office Manager positions.

Roll call vote: Ayes-Van Blaricom, Davis, Vicker, Myers, Riemenschneider, Strohbusch Nays-0 Motion carried.

The Committee will continue in closed session proceedings under WI §19.85 (g) to confer with legal counsel for the governmental body who is rendering oral or written advice concerning strategy to be adopted by the body with respect to litigation in which it is or is likely to become involved. This is in regards to the City Administrator position.

Motion by Davis and seconded by Van Blaricom to come out of closed session proceedings at 7:15

15

p.m.

Roll call vote: Ayes-Van Blaricom, Davis, Vicker, Myers, Riemenschneider, Strohbusch Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Davis and seconded by Strohbusch to a extend a written employment contract to Frances Duncanson, City Clerk-Treasurer, Office Manager pending legal review.

Ayes-6 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Strohbusch and seconded by Riemenschneider to adjourn at 7:20 Ayes-6 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Frances Duncanson, City Clerk

WNAXLP

AMERY CITY COUNCIL PROCEEDINGS

January 25th, 2017 The Amery City Council met for a Special meeting on January 25, 2017 at City Hall. Mayor Kay Erickson called the meeting to order at 7:15 p.m.

Present: Erickson, Tim Strohbusch, Julie Riemenschneider, Rick Van Blaricom, Kristen Vicker, and Rick Davis participated via phone.

Excused: David Myers.

Staff present: Fran Duncanson Others present: Larry Stelter, Tom Stangl from the Amery Free Press, Bob Zank from WPCA, Tom Revnew via speakerphone.

Roll call was conducted by Clerk Duncanson.

Julie Riemenschneider led the Pledge of Allegiance Motion by and Riemenschneider seconded by Van Blaricom to go in to closed session proceedings at 7:17 p.m. under WI §19.85 (1)(c) to consider employment, promotion, compensation or performance evaluation data of any public employee over which the governmental body has jurisdiction or exercises responsibility. This is in regards to the City Adminstrator and Clerk-Treasurer/Office Manager positions.

Roll call vote: Ayes-Strohbusch, Riemenschneider, Vicker, Van Blaricom, Davis Nays-0 Motion carried.

The Committee will continue in closed session proceedings under WI §19.85 (1) (g) to confer with legal counsel for the governmental body who is rendering oral or written advice concerning strategy to be adopted by the body with respect to litigation in which it is or is likely to become involved. This is in regards to the City Administrator position.

The Committee will continue in closed session proceedings under 19.85 (1)(b) to consider dismissal, demotion, or discipline of any public employee.

This is in regards to the City Administrator position.

Motion by Strohbusch and seconded by Riemenschneider to come out of closed session proceedings at 7:41 p.m.

Roll call vote: Ayes-Strohbusch, Riemenschneider, Vicker, Van Blaricom, Davis Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Van Blaricom and seconded by Strohbusch to approve the contract for City Clerk-Treasurer Fran Duncanson as modified.

Ayes-5 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Vicker and seconded by Van Blaricom to immediately place City Administrator Darcy Long on paid administrative leave until further notice.

Ayes-5 Nays-0 Motion carried.

Motion by Strohbusch and seconded by Riemenschneider to adjourn at 7:44 p.m.

Frances Duncanson, City Clerk

WNAXLP

FREE! On-line version to all Amery Free Press Subscribers!

To subscribe just call 715-268-8101

www.theameryfreepress.com

16 AMERY FREE PRESS

SPIRITUAL

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

www.theameryfreepress.com

AREA CHURCHES AMERY FREE LUTHERAN, 1 mile west of golf course on CTH F, Eric Christenson, pastor www.ameryflc.org 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: 9:30 a.m. Sunday school for all ages; 10:15 a.m.

Coffee & Fellowship; 10:30 a.m. Worship/Children’s Church.

Tuesday: 9:30 a.m. Women’s Bible Study.

Wednesday: 10:15 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 5:30 p.m. OneWay Club.

BALSAM LUTHERAN, 1115 Mains Crossing, Amery Wednesday, Feb. 8: 9 a.m. Bible Study; 6:30 p.m. Confirmation class.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 8:30 a.m. Sunday Youth Sessions; 10:15 a.m. Worship.

Tuesday, Feb. 14: 8:30 a.m. Quilting at Elim; 9 a.m. Pack backpacks.

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: 8:30 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, Feb. 8: 3:30 p.m. Homework & Hangout/Confo Make Up; 6 p.m. Family Dinner; 6:30 p.m. WOW/Youth Group; 6:45 p.m. Money Management Class; 7 p.m. Choir Rehearsal.

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

Friday, Feb. 10: 9:30 a.m. Senior Dining Hall opens.

Saturday, Feb. 11: 6 a.m. Food setup for Ruby’s Pantry; 8 a.m. Car Care; 9 a.m. Ruby’s Pantry Food Distribution.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 8:30 a.m. MT17 meeting; 10 a.m. Worship/ Confirmation Mentor Recognition; 11:15 a.m. Trustee meeting; 11:15 a.m. Valentine Dinner hosted by Youth Group.

Monday, Feb. 13: 9:30 a.m. Senior Dining Hall opens; 7 p.m.

Boy Scouts.

Tuesday, Feb. 14: 6:30 a.m. Men’s Bible Study; 9:30 am. Senior Dining Hall opens; 6 p.m. Council Meeting.

DEER PARK UNITED METHODIST, John Hazen, pastor Sunday: 11 a.m. Worship.

DERONDA LUTHERAN, 1239 65th Ave., Amery Lori Peper, pastor 715-268-9577 Wednesday, Feb. 8: 6 p.m. JAM and Confirmation at Deronda; 7 p.m. High School Youth at Deronda.

Thursday, Feb. 9: 9 a.m. Deronda Quilting; 5 p.m. Gather Meal at Deronda.

Friday, Feb. 10: 9 a.m. Deronda Bake Sale at Bremer Bank.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 8 a.m. Deronda Worship; 5:30 p.m. Financlal Peace University at Deronda.

Tuesday, Feb. 14: 7 p.m. Church Councils meet at Little Falls.

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 Wednesday, Feb. 8: 6 p.m. Confirmation.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 9:30 a.m. Education; 10:30 a.m. Worship.

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, Mark Peters, pastor Sunday: 8:30 a.m. Worship.

Holy Communion 1st and 3rd Sundays.

Tuesday: 8:30 a.m. Quilting.

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 LUTHERAN, 240 Elm St., Amery Tim Bjorge, pastor Wednesday, Feb. 8: 5:15 p.m. Supper; 6 p.m. Friends in Faith and Hi League; 6 p.m. Confirmation Mentor Night; 7 p.m. Church Council.

Thursday, Feb. 9: 8 a.m. Bible Study at Ida Mae’s; 8:30 a.m.

Quilters; 7 p.m. Al Anon.

Saturday, Feb. 11: 8 a.m. Car Care.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 9 a.m. Worship; 10:15 a.m. Sunday school, Hi League Tuesday, Feb. 14: 6:30 a.m. Women’s Bible Study; 8:30 a.m. Property Committee; 9 a.m.-6 p.m. WIC Clinic.

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

Thursday, Feb. 9: 11 a.m. Priscilla at Gail Clark’s; 2 p.m.

Joanna Circle at Ridgeview Apartments; 6:30 p.m. Church Council.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 8:30 a.m. Contemporary Worship; 9 a.m.

Choir practice; 9:30 a.m. Fellowship; 9:40 a.m. Sunday school; 10 a.m. Traditional Worship; 11 a.m. Church Potluck; 6-8 p.m. Knotty Pine 4-H meeting.

Monday, Feb. 13: 10 a.m. Staff meeting; 3 p.m. Service at Golden Age Manor.

Tuesday, Feb. 14: 9 a.m. Quilting; 9 a.m. Pastor at Clergy 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: 9:45 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 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.

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

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

Learn Something New Every Day “The heart of the discerning acquires knowledge, for the ears of the wise seek it out.”

—Proverbs 18:15 NIV

T

he advice to learn something new every day is akin to saving something for a rainy day, since skills and knowledge are powerful tools which we will someday need. We just don’t know when. You never know when those Spanish classes will pay off, but you can rest assured that you will eventually run into someone who speaks Spanish but doesn’t speak English. Learning also satisfies what psychologists call “stimulus drives,” that is, drives such as curiosity and a desire for novelty which make us more open to the world around us and more competent in our interactions with the world. A former professor of mine used to say that knowledge was like the empty bags from the grocery store that we keep under the sink. We don’t know when, but we know we will eventually use them. So, besides the inherent joy and interest that comes from learning something new, it’s money in the bank that will pay healthy dividends. – 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

Williamson-White Funeral Home and Cremation Services Amery

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

SPIRITUAL

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

AREA CHURCHES CONTINUED JOURNEY CHURCH (formerly First Baptist), 131 Broadway St., Amery 715-268-2223 office@journeychurch.city Sunday: Worship service 9-10:15 a.m. Nursery is available for ages 0-3 anytime, ages 3-4 during the sermon only; 10:30-11:30 a.m. All Ages Sunday school, nursery is available for ages 0-3.

Monday: 1:30-2:30 Moms in Prayer Group (during the school year).

Wednesday: 6-7:30 p.m. Kids Club Remix, ages Pre-K-5th grade, meets in the church, free dinner at 6 p.m; 6-7:30 p.m.

DW Youth Group, grades 6th-12th, meets in the church at 6 p.m. for free dinner and then in the Teen Center for the remainder of the time.

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

LITTLE FALLS LUTHERAN, 1272 44th Ave., Amery Lori Peper, pastor 715-268-9577 Wednesday, Feb. 8: 6 p.m. JAM and Confirmation at Deronda; 7 p.m. High School Youth at Deronda.

Thursday, Feb. 9: 9 a.m. Little Falls Quilting; 5 p.m. Gather Meal at Deronda.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 9:30 a.m. Little Falls Worship; 5:30 p.m.

Financial Peace University at Deronda.

Tuesday, Feb. 14: 7 p.m. Church Councils meet at Little Falls.

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, Feb. 8: 12 p.m. Men’s Table Talk; 3:30 p.m.

Holy Bash; 5 p.m. Confirmation Cafe; 5:30 p.m. Confirmation; 6:15 p.m. Evening Prayer Group; 6:30 p.m. BRB. Thursday, Feb. 9: 8:15 a.m. Weigh-In Club; 8:30 a.m. Bible Study Group 9:30 a.m. Apple River Conference at Faith Lutheran in BL; 1:30 p.m. Martha.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 9 a.m. Contemporary Worship Service with Holy Communion; 10:15 a.m. Sunday school; 10:30 a.m.

Adult Education - Luther.

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, Feb. 8: 5:30 p.m. Confirmation.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 8:30 a.m. Lay Ministers; 9:30 a.m. Worship and Sunday school; 10:30 a.m. Fellowship; 5 p.m. Valentine Dinner.

Tuesday, Feb. 14: 7 p.m. Parish Planning.

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.

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

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: Feb. 11 & 12: Youth Social Fundraising after Masses; Sunday, Feb. 12: Baptism Class 12 to 1 p.m.; Tuesday, Feb. 14: KC meeting 6:30 p.m.

ST. JOHN LUTHERAN, Forest, John Wilman, pastor Thursday, Feb. 9: 1 p.m Bible Study.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 8 a.m. Worship; 9 a.m. Coffee Fellowship.

Monday, Feb. 13: Pastor visiting shut-ins.

Tuesday, Feb. 14: 4:30-7:30 p.m. St. Paul’s Valentine’s Dinner.

ST. PAUL LUTHERAN, Deer Park, John Wilman, pastor Wednesday, Feb. 8: Pastor visiting shut-ins.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 8:45 a.m. Sunday school; 9 a.m. Coffee Fellowship; 9:30 a.m. Worship; 10:30 a.m. Confirmation.

Monday, Feb. 13: Pastor visiting shut-ins.

Tuesday, Feb. 14: Pastor visiting shut-ins; 4:30-7:30 p.m.

Valentine’s Dinner; No Bible Study.

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, Feb. 8: 6 p.m. JAM and Confirmation at Deronda; 7 p.m. High School Youth at Deronda.

Thursday, Feb. 9: 5 p.m. Gather Meal at Deronda.

Saturday, Feb. 11: 11 a.m. Baby shower for Ali Heidemann.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 11 a.m. Trinity Worship; 5:30 p.m. Financial Peace University at Deronda.

Tuesday, Feb. 14: 2:30 p.m. Trinity WELCA Valentine Party at Willow Ridge; 7 p.m. Church Councils meet at Little Falls.

See our website for up-to-date scheduling www.trinity lutheranchurchofamery.com UNITED COVENANT, 348 5th St. NW, Clear Lake Dan Pearson, pastor Wednesday, Feb. 8: 5:45 p.m. Worship Team 2 Practice; 6:15 p.m. CREW (Youth Group); 6:30 p.m. Adult Study Groups.

Saturday, Feb. 11: 7 a.m. Men’s Prayer Breakfast.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 8:30-9:45 a.m. Sunday school, Confirmation, Youth; 9:30 a.m. Worship Team 2 Practice; 10 a.m.

Worship Service (potluck following service); 11:30 a.m. CHIC Parent Meeting in Sanctuary.

Tuesday, Feb. 14: 8 a.m. Sweet Hour of Prayer; 1 p.m. Study at Ridgeview.

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, Feb. 8: 6 p.m. Confirmation Meal; 7 p.m. Confirmation classes; 7 p.m. HS Youth Group.

Sunday, Feb. 12: 8 a.m. Worship; 9 a.m. Coffee Fellowship; 9:15 a.m. Sunday school; 10:30 a.m. Worship.

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.

17

Johnson, Walker once opposed Trump’s Muslim ban; now, mum

BY SCOTT BAUER AND IVAN MORENO ASSOCIATED PRESS

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The top two elected Republicans in Wisconsin had previously criticized President Donald Trump for proposing a Muslim ban as a candidate, but neither Gov. Scott Walker nor U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson were talking in the wake of the president’s travel ban affecting seven predominantly Muslim countries.

Other critics of Trump’s executive order, including every Democratic member of Wisconsin’s congressional delegation, were speaking out. Republicans in the delegation were either supportive or silent on Monday.

Immigrant advocates joined with elected officials in denouncing the order at a news conference Monday at the Islamic Resource Center in suburban Milwaukee.

Those who work with resettling refugees said the order was hurting their efforts.

“This goes against everything our country represents, going back to our founder’s conviction in the United States as a nation where the government does not discriminate against any religion,” said Emilio De Torre, youth and program director at Wisconsin’s American Civil Liberties Union.

Trump has insisted that the order he signed is not a ban on Muslims entering the country but is instead a measure designed to keep the country safe.

Trump’s order includes a 90-day ban on travel to the U.S. by citizens of Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia and Yemen, and a 120-day suspension of the U.S. refugee program.

A a 24-year-old man escaping violence and torture in Sudan did not arrive in Wisconsin as scheduled Monday due to the temporary immigration ban, said Mary Flynn, program director of Lutheran Social Services

of Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. The man’s case had been expedited because he was a victim of torture, Flynn said.

Six other individuals who were to be helped by the group in the next few months have had their cases cancelled as of Monday, Flynn said.

Fessahaye Mebrahtu, executive director Pan-African Community Association in Milwaukee, said many of the Iraqi, Somalian and Sudanese refugees his organization worked with have been waiting for family members to arrive. The executive order now puts those plans on hold, he said.

Both Johnson and Walker were critical when then-candidate Trump last year called for an outright ban on Muslims entering the country. Johnson, who is chairman of the Senate’s Homeland Security Committee, said then that “the best way to prevent the homegrown-inspired attacks is literally positive engagement with Muslim communities.”

Johnson was traveling Monday and not immediately available for comment, said his spokesman Ben Voelkel.

Walker said last year in disagreeing with Trump’s much broader total ban on Muslims that the country’s founding principles are based on protecting religious liberties. Walker’s spokesman Tom Evenson did not immediately return a message seeking comment Monday.

Republican U.S. Rep. Jim Sensenbrenner reversed himself over the weekend after initially saying Saturday that green-card holders affected by Trump’s order shouldn’t be allowed in the U.S. On Sunday, Sensenbrenner said he misspoke.

The president’s executive order was applauded

by House Speaker Paul Ryan, of Janesville, who said it is “time to re-evaluate and strengthen the visa-vetting process.”

18 AMERY FREE PRESS

SPIRITUAL

OBITUARIES

DEATH NOTICE

Jacqueline L. Dixson

Austin B. Woodbeck

Jacqueline Louise Dixson was born on June 21, 1950 in Omaha Nebraska. She is the daughter of Leonard and Patricia (Casey) Earl. She attended Catholic school in Omaha and graduated high school. She was united in marriage to her late husband Douglas Dixson on March 27, 1970 and together they raised two children. She was mother and home maker. While her children were growing up she served as a 4H leader.

She worked for the Amery school district as a special needs bus driver, and lunch server. They made their home in Deer Park Wisconsin. When she was not running her children to various sporting and art events she could be found doing arts and crafts, painting and gardening.

Jacquie suffered acute DVT and passed at Hopes and Dreams in Boyd, Wisconsin January 14, 2017 at the age of 66. Her mother and father precede her in death.

Left to mourn her passing are her two children, daughter, Tammi Dixson, and son, William Dixson (Melissa Munoz); brothers, Mike and Wesley; sisters, Linda, Chris, Becky, and Julie, along with many relatives and friends.

Memorial Services will be held on Saturday February 11, 2017 at Redeemer Lutheran Church in Amery with Pastor Tom Hahn officiating. Visitation will be held for one hour prior to the services at the church.

Internment of cremains will be held at the Fort Snelling National Cemetery in Minneapolis, Minnesota in the Spring.

To sign an online guest book and view a video tribute please visit www.williamsonwhite.com Arrangements were entrusted to the Williamson-White Funeral Home and Cremation Services, 222 Harriman Avenue North Amery, Wisconsin 54001.

Austin Brian Woodbeck age 17, of Amery, Wisconsin passed away on Friday, February 3, 2017 at his home in Amery.

Austin was born on August 15, 1999 in Wyoming, Minnesota to Brian and Christine (Bronson) Woodbeck. Austin was an avid outdoorsman. He loved hunting, fishing, listening to Hard Rock music and spending time with his little sister, Riley. Austin was an amazing big brother to Riley and she always idolized him.

Austin is survived by his parents, Brian and Christy Woodbeck of Amery, Wisconsin; sister, Riley; brother, Trevor; his grandparents and many other relatives and friends.

Funeral Services will be held at 11 AM on Wednesday, February 8, 2017 at the New Life Community Church with Pastor Craig Jorgenson officiating.

Visitation will be held on Tuesday, February 7th at the Williamson-White Funeral Home from 4 to 7 PM and for one hour prior to the service at the church on Wednesday. Interment will take place at a later date in the spring.

To sign an online guest book and view a video tribute please visit www.williamsonwhite.com Arrangements have been entrusted to the Williamson-White Funeral Home and Cremation services, 222 Harriman Avenue North Amery, Wisconsin.

Wisconsin artist who cast Mary Tyler Moore sculpture dies MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Gwendolyn Gillen, a Wisconsin artist whose bronze sculpture of Mary Tyler Moore tossing her hat became a downtown Minneapolis landmark, has died. She was 76.

Gillen's daughter, Alessandra Gillen, says her mother died Friday in hospice care at Madison Heights Senior Community in Madison, where she had lived since 2013.

Gwendolyn Gillen died two days after Moore died at the age of 80.

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

www.theameryfreepress.com

Alessandra Gillen tells the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel her mother was most proud of the Moore statue.

In 2002, Gillen's lifesized statue of Moore was dedicated on Nicollet Mall, a pedestrian mall near where Moore threw her tam in the opening credits of her 1970s TV show, “The Mary Tyler Moore Show.”

The statue is now on display in the Minneapolis Visitor Center during mall reconstruction.

Ruby Peterson Tepfer died on Feb. 1 at the age of 90.

She was predeceased by her husband Norm in 1978.

She is survived by her family - Pat and Al Petri, Jackie Peterson, Jeff, Teri and Makenzie Tepfer.

Lola Mae Fouks, 87, Deer Park, died Monday, Feb. 6 at American Heritage Care Center in Hammond.

Funeral services will be at 2 p.m. on Friday, Feb. 10, from St. Paul Lutheran Church in Deer Park.

Burial will be in the Calvary Cemetery in Deer Park.

Visitation will be from 4 to 7 p.m. on Thursday at the Williamson-White Funeral Home in Amery and 1 hour prior to services at the church.

For further information and to sign online guest book please visit www.williamsonwhite.com.

Arrangements are being made with the Williamson-White Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Amery.

Copies made and Faxes sent Amery Free Press 215 S. Keller Ave., Amery

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

Read the

ONLINE!

www.theameryfreepress.com All print subscriptions include FREE online access

Want to subscribe?

Have a question?

Call 715-268-8101 or email dstangl@theameryfreepress.com

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

19

BOB JOHNSON

Celia Becker and Lexi Grunder sing a skit during the talent show.

SNOW DAYS FUN Amery High School students celebrated Snow Days last week, with a full week of fun events.

BOB JOHNSON

Dani Meyer creates an original painting during the talent show.

BOB JOHNSON

Ruben Moreno performs a song at the talent show.

ZACH DE LA CRUZ

Bethany Marquand and Dylan Thompson were crowned the Snow Days King and Queen.

BOB JOHNSON

Megan Robertson performs a song that she composed herself for the talent show.

Money Talks.

NEW RICHMOND SOMERSET

Strong & Secure Since 1919

So save more of your money with us

www.fn-cb.com

715-246-6901

715-247-4501

HUDSON

DRESSER

715-386-9301

NMLS #412555

715-755-2174

SPORTS AND OUTDOORS

20 AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

www.theameryfreepress.com

Waalen, Dudgeon claim second at Conference Tourney

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Amery’s wrestling team picked up a sixth-place finish at the eight team Middle Border Conference Tournament on Feb. 4. Individually, the Warriors had two second-place finishers.

At 145 pounds Shawn Waalen pinned St. Croix Central’s George Vondriska in 2:51 in the quarterfinal round and

followed with a 5-2 win over Osceola’s Diego Lowney in the semifinals. In the championship match, Waalen lost a 9-1 major decision to Ellsworth’s Cole Skelton.

Kody Dudgeon had similar success in the 152-pound bracket, opening with a 2:38 pin against SCC’s Logan Knapton and following with a 7-0 decision over New Richmond’s Dylan Wachter. Ellsworth’s Logan Melstrom won

the conference title by defeating Dudgeon, 6-2.

Mike Smith claimed third place at 120 pounds, winning by fall over Somerset’s Tyler Hantsbarger in 1:30, then losing, 5-4, to Ellsworth’s Sawyer Hamilton in the semifinals.

Smith bounced back for a 19-3 technical fall victory over Osceola’s Aaron Schmidt in the consolation semifinals and finished the day with a 3:00 fall over St. Croix Central’s Ja-

cob Nyhagen.

Placing fourth were Noah Zinn (126 pounds), James Baillargeon (138 pounds) and Carl Oman (170 pounds). Zinn earned victories over New Richmond’s Christian Moeller (Fall 1:09) and Prescott’s Mason Cable (8-4 decision).

Baillargeon picked up a 13-5 major decision win over Osceola’s Nick Abernathy.

Oman topped Baldwin-Woodville’s TshaJ-Luag Lee (Fall

0:58) and Somerset’s Ethan Wegscheider (Fall 1:52).

Claiming fi fth-place finishes were Andrew Prindle (106 pounds), Canyon Schwartz (160 pounds) and Mason Goulet (182 pounds).

Team Scores Ellsworth 312, New Richmond 145, Prescott 133, Baldwin-Woodville 126, Osceola 117, Amery 113.5, Somerset 113, St. Croix Central 109

ERIC PAULSON

Carl Oman watches the count of the referee in his match. Oman placed fourth at the tournament.

ERIC PAULSON

James Baillargeon placed fourth at 138 pounds.

ERIC PAULSON

Mason Goulet placed fifth at 182 pounds.

ERIC PAULSON

Noah Zinn placed fourth at 126 pounds

ERIC PAULSON

Andrew Prindle (left) placed fifth at 106 pounds.

SPORTS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

21

Strong second half pushes Warriors past Osceola

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Amery got off to a sluggish start, shooting just 20 percent from the field in the first half of its Feb. 2 showdown with Middle Border Conference rival Osceola in girls basketball. But the Warriors rebounded to shot 11 for 18 in the second half and pick up a 40-25 victory over the Chieftains in Osceola.

“They rebounded the ball great once again, limiting Osceola to only two second chance points,” said Amery Coach Gabe Brotzel. “Another good road win for this team.”

Overall, Amery tallied 34 rebounds, compared to 20 for the Chieftains. All but five of Amery’s rebounds came on the defensive end of the court.

Madelyn Granica led the Warriors with 15 points, nine rebounds, three assists and three steals. Abby Schmidt contributed 10 points and five rebounds.

Also scoring for Amery were Gabby Fredrick (four points), Dani Meyer (four points), Brianna Wundrow (three points), Cheyenne Edwards (two points) and Shawna Wiese (two points). Wundrow also tallied five rebounds and a block. Meyer pitched in three steals and two assists.

HEATHER GRANICA

Amery players; Esmee Luchtenberg, Dani Meyer, Shawna Wiese, Brianna Wundrow and Abby Schmidt, defending the inside

HEATHER GRANICA

Cheyenne Edwards defending her player.

HEATHER GRANICA

Amery players, Ashley Vansomeren, Rachel Fouks & Kallie Wisenbeck going up for a rebound

WINTER ISN’T OVER YET! GET YOUR FURNACE RUNNING MORE EFFICIENTLY! CLEAN, TUNE & SAFETY INSPECTION SPECIAL $129 GOING ON NOW!

Good things happen when you’re dedicated to living an active and healthy life. Take care of yourself and your loved ones in 2017 by scheduling well visits and preventive care. amerymedicalcenter.org | 715-268-8000

22 AMERY FREE PRESS

SPORTS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

www.theameryfreepress.com

Warriors stop Rails in their tracks

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

The Amery boys’ basketball team dominated Spooner, 66-35, on Jan. 31 in Amery. While both teams fired off 53 shots, the Rails (1-15) managed to sink just 12 of the while the Warriors (6-11) more than doubled that number with 27 made baskets.

Connor McBrayer led the way for Amery, shooting 11-for-13 from the field and finishing with 23 points. He also tallied a team high nine rebounds and added a pair of steals and assists.

Overall, the Warriors outrebounded, Spooner 41-27, doubled the Rails in assists, 12-6, and at least tripled them in steals (10-3) and blocks (3-1). Amery committed just 11 turnovers, compared to 15 by Spooner.

Seth Amundsen was another strong contributor for the Warriors, tallying nine points, seven rebounds, two assists and a steal.

Also putting points on the board were Caleb Ladwig (six), Lane Christensen (six), Noah Rademaker (five), Zach Swenson (five), Dylan Johnson (four), Mason Spafford (three), Dalton Gilbertson (three) and Sam Fornengo (two).

The Warriors’ rebound dispersion was equally as balanced with the same 10 players getting marks in that category. Ladwig and Christensen each tallied five rebounds. Rademaker and Swenson each grabbed four.

Six Warriors recorded assists with Ladwig leading the way with three.

Christensen and Rademaker were the team steal leaders with three each. Swenson led the squad in blocks with two.

LISA MCBRAYER

#20 Dalton Gilbertson drains a three pointer

Wedding Expo

32 nd Annual

Sunday, FEBRUARY 19, 2017 • 11 AM - 2 PM

LISA MCBRAYER

#14 Dylan Johnson puts up a shot.

Best Western Plus White Bear Country Inn 4940 Highway 61 • White Bear Lake, MN OVER 40 VENDORS, SAMPLES, CAKE WALK & HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS IN DOOR PRIZES

Brides are Free•Guests are $5 REGISTER TODAY!

By sending your name, address, phone number and wedding date to: marketing@presspubs.com or call 651-407-1213 to: m arketiing@prees

Cake walk 11:30AM SPONSORED BY BREAD ART S

Arthur Murray Dancers 12:30PM

Fashion Show with Flowers 1PM SPONSORED BY SAVVI FORMALWEAR, ANGELIQUE’S BRIDAL & JUBILEE FLORAL

Big hearts or big business?

Choose well.

Early detection with advanced 3D breast imaging at Cumberland Healthcare.

Did you know up to 30% of cancers go undetected with 2D breast imaging? Get a more accurate diagnosis and effective treatment plan the first time with our new 3D breast imaging.

Call 715.822.7390 to schedule your mammogram.

Visit cumberlandhealthcare.com to find a provider.

SPORTS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

Clear Lake boys down Clayton; extend winning streak to four

23

This week’s sports Amery Boys Basketball

The Clear Lake Warriors boys basketball team continued their winning ways on Thursday, February 2, by defeating the Clayton Bears 73-20.

The Warriors made the short trip to Clayton and from the opening tip-off, they made their presence known. They dominated at both ends of the court and led the Bears 45-13 at the end of the first half.

Several Warriors contributed offensively to the victory. Four Clear Lake players recorded double figures: Bailey Blanchard scored 15; Jordan Ramis tallied 13; while Matt Fisher and Marshall Cain each scored 10.

Warrior assist leaders in the contest were Ramis with 6, Daymond Bad Horse with 4 and sophomore Kincaid Hughes with 3.

Leading rebounders for the Warriors were Cain with 5, and Ramis and Fisher each with 4. Ramis also played tough defense, stealing the ball from Bears’ players seven times.

The win brings the Warriors season record to 13-3. Clear Lake will host the Spring Valley Cardinals in a non-conference game on Feb. 7 and travel to Northwood on Feb. 10.

Feb. 7 @ Ellsworth Feb. 9 vs. Osceola Feb. 13 vs. Unity

Amery Girls Basketball Feb. 10 vs. Baldwin-Woodville Feb. 14 vs. New Richmond

Amery Hockey Feb. 11 vs. Black River Falls Feb 14 WIAA Regional vs. Grantsburg Co-op

Amery Wrestling Feb. 11 WIAA Regional @ SCC

Clayton Boys Basketball Feb. 13 vs. New Auburn

Clayton Girls Basketball Feb. 10 vs. Prairie Farm Feb. 14 @ Bruce

Clear Lake Boys Basketball Feb. 7 vs. Spring Valley Feb. 10 @ Northwood Feb. 14 @ Lake Holcombe

Clear Lake Girls Basketball Feb. 10 @ Northwood Feb. 14 @ Lake Holcombe

Youth Hockey

Central Lakeland Conference Standings

PeeWee A 2/5 Amery vs Somerset

Cameron ............................8-0 Clear Lake ......................... 7-1 Turtle Lake ....................... 5-3 Northwood ........................ 5-3 Prairie Farm .................... 2-5 Clayton .............................. 1-8 Shell Lake .........................0-8

KENT HUGHES

Marshall Cain scores on a reverse layup for two of his 10 points.

Amery boys win third straight, upset SCC

BY BRETT HART CONTRIBUTING WRITER

Loss 3-7 2nd Period Goal: #5 Justin Walter , Assist #12 Max Mike Goal: #22 Danny Tylee 3rd Period Goal: #7 Kruse Yuhas, Assist #8 Maddison Johnson 22 Saves #1 (Goalie) Avery Starzecki

Amery Squirt A vs Superior Spartans lost 2 to 3 Goals: Vincent Greene 1 assisted by Mike Kelly Cayden Meyer assisted by Jacob Maxon Goalie Carter Meyer 19 shots/16 saves

Bantams place second at International Falls Amery’s boys’ basketball team shot 70 percent from three-point land on Feb. 2 to earn its third consecutive victory with a 47-40 win over Middle Border Conference rival St. Croix Central in Amery.

Lane Christensen was the sharpshooter on the night, sinking 4-of-5 long range attempts while teammate Seth Amundsen was 2-for-2 from 3-point range.

Christensen finished with a team-high 16 points.

Amundsen lit it up all over the court, hitting 3-of4 free throw attempts, grabbing a team high 12 rebounds, team high six assists and one steal. He also finished just one point behind Christensen with 15 points.

Overall, the Warriors (6-11, 4-6 MBC) finished with 37 rebounds, 11 assists, four steals and three blocks.

The MBC’s third-place Panthers (8-7, 7-3 MBC) notched 28 boards, three assists, eight steals and four blocks.

Other scorers included Noah Rademaker (six), Mason Spafford (four), Connor McBrayer (two), Zach Swenson (two) and Galen Coy (two).

McBrayer also tallied a team-high three blocks and pitched in seven rebounds, two assists and a steal.

Swenson finished with six rebounds and two assists.

This weekend the Amery Bantams took home the 2nd Place Trophy in the 4-Game International Falls Bantam B Tournament, Battle on the Border.

Game #1 - Mora - They edged out Mora on Friday night beating them 4-3.

Game #2 - International Falls - Amery won 3-2.

Game #3 - Proctor – Amery wins in overtime, 6-5. Miles Troff scored a hat trick plus the winning overtime goal!

Game #4 - Lake of the Woods, who are ranked #5 in the state of MN, took home the Championship trophy.

Layton Borst, Nick Bush, Sam Otto, Asher Page, and AJ Simpkins also contributed goals on the board.

Lauren Sobzcak and Cole Luer were goal tenders.

LISA MCBRAYER

#3 Lane Christensen 3 pointer

24 AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017 www.theameryfreepress.com

COOKING WORLD Tidbit: We must find time to thank the people who made a difference in our lives. (Dan Zada, Austrian lawCarolyn Lumsden yer and politician) 715-483-9738

This soup recipe has fresh zucchini.

You can use your leftover chicken or turkey and have a nice soup in no time at all.

CHICKEN ZUDDLE SOUP Put into Dutch oven or soup pot and heat over medium heat and add: 1 T. olive oil 1 large chopped onion 2 medium carrots, sliced (about 1 c.)

3 medium celery stalks, sliced (about 1 c.)

1 tsp. chopped fresh thyme leaves 1/2 tsp. salt 1/4 tsp. pepper Cook for 5-7 minutes or until vegetables soften.

Stir in and cook 1 minute longer: 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped Stir in and heat to boiling: 2 cartons (32 oz. ea.) chicken broth Stir in: 2 c. shredded cooked chicken or turkey 2 medium zucchini, peeled, julienned and cut into 1” pieces Reduce heat and simmer, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes or until vegetables are tender. When ready to serve, sprinkle some chopped fresh Italian (flat leaf) parsley onto each bowl. Serves 6. Hint: if you do not like zucchini, add some potatoes with the carrots and celery.

This casserole is another quick meal. It can be made in less then an hour.

RICE, BROCCOLI AND CHICKEN CASSEROLE Heat in large skillet over medium heat: 1 T. oil Add and cook, stirring, for 5 minutes: 1 lb. skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-size pieces 3 c. small broccoli florets 1 onion, chopped Stir in and bring to a boil: 1 c. chicken broth Stir in and mix well: 1-1/4 c. instant white rice, uncooked 1 tub (8 oz.) cream cheese spread 2 T. milk 1 tsp. dried Italian seasoning Spoon mixture into a sprayed/greased 8” square baking dish.

Top with: 1 c. shredded Italian five cheese with touch of Philadelphia Bake at 375° for 25 minutes or until heated through, uncovering for the last 10 minutes. Serves 4-6. Hint: if you have cooked leftover chicken (or turkey) you can use that. Cook the broccoli and onion, then add the cooked leftover chicken (turkey) and heat and stir for about 1-2 minutes.

This dessert uses a refrigerated sugar cookie dough, a can of cherries. You have dessert. What could be easier to make?

Make a watermelon Fruit Pizza for a pretty meal, dessert or fruit treat.

WATERMELON FRUIT PIZZA You will need 1 large slice of watermelon (about an inch thick), with the rind still attached, for the pizza part. Put it on a large serving plate.

Arrange on top of the slice of watermelon: 1 medium banana, sliced a handful of fresh blueberries some grapes, cut in half Sprinkle on top: 1-2 T. shredded coconut When serving, cut like pizza. You can add a dollop of whipped cream or topping, if desired. Hint: You can vary the fruit to your liking, too.

If you want Alfredo sauce, you need not buy it in a jar. Make your own by using this simple recipe without any added ingredients.

FOUR INGREDIENT ALFREDO SAUCE Put together in blender and mix until just thickens: 3-4 garlic cloves 1/2 c. freshly grated Parmesan cheese 1-1/2 c. heavy whipping cream salt and pepper to taste. Use in any recipe calling for Alfredo Sauce.

This soup can be made in about 30 minutes.

30 MINUTE TOMATO AND BEAN SOUP Brown (or until meat is done) in Dutch Oven, larger skillet or saucepan: 1/2 pound ground turkey or beef 1 T. olive or veg. oil 2 cloves minced garlic 1 smaller onion, chopped (optional) Add and stir together: 1 c. grape or cherry tomatoes, halved 1 c. sliced mushrooms, sliced Add and combine: 2 c. chicken broth 1 can (15 oz.) white cannellini beans 2 T. chopped fresh basil leaves Cook about 3-5 minutes or until well heated but not boiling. Serves 2-4. You can easily double or triple this recipe for more people.

It seems everyone likes spaghetti. This recipe has a few less calories than some so you won’t have to feel guilty when enjoying it.

MILLION-DOLLAR SKINNY CASSEROLE Cook in skillet until browned: 1 pound ground turkey Stir in: 1 jar (25.5 oz.) tomato basil pasta sauce (or your favorite) Cook as directed on package, then drain: 12 oz. spaghetti pasta While above is cooking, combine in bowl: 1 egg 1/2 c. grated Parmesan cheese 1/4 c. fresh chopped parsley 2 T. melted butter Add the cooked spaghetti and toss until evenly coated.

Put mixture into a greased/sprayed 9x13” baking pan.

Combine in medium bowl: 1 c. low-fat cottage cheese 4 oz. low-fat cream cheese, softened and cubed Spread the above onto the spaghetti mixture.

Sprinkle the cooked turkey onto the top.

Sprinkle over all: 1 c. shredded mozzarella cheese Bake at 350° for 35-40 minutes or until hot all the way through and cheese is melted on the top and lightly browned. Let stand 5 minutes, then sprinkle 1/4 c. freshly chopped basil leaves. Serves 6-8.

Tip: Instead of making French Fries, wash potatoes and lay the potato on a flat surface. Cut the potato almost thru, making several slices. Put potato onto a baking pan. Sprinkle with oil and put melted butter into the cut slices, add salt and pepper to taste. Bake at 350° for about 40 minutes or until done. Hint: You can add some shredded cheese, while hot to melt into the potato, and/or sprinkle with bacon bits if you want.

WEDNESDAY

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

12 6

CHERRY PIE SQUARES Press half of mixture into a sprayed 9x9” baking pan (or lined with parchment paper): 1 package (16 oz.) refrigerated sugar cookie dough Spread over the dough: 1 can of cherry pie filling Sprinkle the remaining sugar cookie dough on top so it looks like a cobbler crust. Bake at 350° for 4045 minutes or until medium golden brown. Let cool completely before cutting. Hint: You can vary the dessert by using other flavors of pie filling.

MONDAY

13

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

8

9

10

11

15

16

17

18

Community Center: 8 am Coffee Club, 8:30 am Foot Clinic, 9 am Silver Foxes, 10 am Alcoholics Anonymous, 1 pm Bridge, 7 pm Alcoholics Anonymous

February 8 - 18

SUNDAY

THURSDAY

Community Center: 8 Community Center: am Coffee Club, 9 am 8 am Coffee Club, Pool, 12:30 pm Hand 9 am Silver Fox& Foot Cards, -Iden- es, 9:30 am Polish tity Theft Seminar, 7 Poker, 12 pm Potpm Alcoholics Anon- luck, 1 pm Bingo, 8 pm Alcoholics ymous 8:15 am Amery Hous- Anonymous ing Authority Month- 9 am Deronda LuChurch ly Board meeting at theran Bake Sale at the AHA office 6:30 p.m. Bingo at the Bremer Bank 7:15 pm HS Girls Amery VFW 7:15 pm HS Boys Bas- Basketball vs. Baldketball vs. Osceola, w i n - Wo o d v i l l e , here here

10:30 am HS Wrestling, WIAA Regional at St. Croix Central 7 pm HS Hockey vs.

Black River Falls, here

TUESDAY

Community Center: 8 am Coffee Club, 9 am Silver Foxes, 12:30 pm Bridge, 1 pm Grief Support, 7 pm Alcoholics Anonymous 7:15 pm HS Boys Basketball vs. Unity, here

14

Valentine’s Day

Community Center: 8 am Coffee Club, 9 am Pool, 10:30 am Mrs. Amans Class visits, 1 pm Wii Games, 6:30 pm 500 Cards 4:30-7:30 pm Valentine’s Dinner at St. Paul Lutheran Church, Deer Park 7:15 pm HS Girls Basketball vs. New Richmond, here

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, 11:30 am 6-5-4 Dice, 12:30 pm Hand & Foot Cards, 1 pm Amery Memory Cafe, 6 pm Freezer Meal Class, 7 pm Alcoholics Anonymous 6:30 pm Bingo at the Amery VFW 7:15 pm HS Girls Basketball vs. Unity, here

Community Center: 4:30 pm Polk and St. Croix Co. Re8 am Coffee Club, publican Parties 9 am Silver Foxes, Lincoln Day Din9 am Mah Jong, ner at St. Croix 6 pm Lee Elmer, National Golf and 8 pm Alcoholics Event Center in Anonymous Somerset 7:15 pm HS Boys Basketball at Baldwin-Woodville

SPONSORED BY:

Amery Spring Show is set for Friday and Saturday, April 7 & 8

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

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

SCHOOL LUNCH MENUS AMERY SCHOOLS Thursday, Feb. 9— Elementary lunch: Popcorn chicken, mashed potatoes & gravy, corn, garden bar, fruit choices.

Intermediate & Middle lunch: Popcorn chicken, mashed potatoes & gravy, corn, garden bar, fruit choices.

High school lunch: Popcorn chicken/bread, mashed potatoes & gravy, corn, garden bar, fruit choices.

Friday, Feb. 10— Elementary lunch: Grilled cheese, tomato soup, garden bar, fruit.

Intermediate & Middle lunch: Grilled cheese or cold cut sub, tomato soup, garden bar, fruit choices.

High school lunch:

Grilled cheese or cold cut sub, tomato soup, garden bar, fruit choices.

Monday, Feb. 13— Elementary lunch: Corn dog, sweet potato fries, garden bar, fruit choices.

Intermediate & Middle lunch: Corn dog or steakhouse hoagie, sweet potato fries, garden bar, fruit choices.

High school lunch: Corn dog or steakhouse hoagie, sweet potato fries, garden bar, fruit choices.

Tuesday, Feb. 14— Elementary lunch: Deluxe nachos, refried beans, black bean salsa, garden bar, fruit choices/ cookie.

Intermediate & Middle lunch: Deluxe nachos or

chicken quesadilla, refried beans, black bean salsa, garden bar, fruit choices, cookie.

High school lunch: Deluxe nachos or chicken quesadilla, refried beans, black bean salsa, garden bar, fruit choices/cookie.

Wednesday, Feb. 15— Elementary lunch: Chicken tenders, peas, garden bar, fruit choices.

Intermediate & Middle lunch: BBQ pork sandwich or teriyaki chicken rice bowl, stir fry veggie blend, garden bar, fruit choices.

High school lunch: BBQ pork sandwich or teriyaki chicken rice bowl, stir fry veggie blend, garden bar, fruit choices.

CLEAR LAKE SCHOOLS Thursday, Feb. 9— Elementary breakfast: Cereal or oatmeal, cereal bar.

Elementary lunch: Mini corn dogs or peanut butter sandwich, potato wedges, steamed broccoli, cheese sauce, pears, milk.

High school breakfast: Entree options: Cereal, cheese omelet, Nutri Grain bar, muffin, waffles, yogurt parfait.

High school lunch: “Brunch Lunch,” cheese omelet, sausage links, muffin, hash browns, bell peppers, orange wedges, juice, (chef salad option).

Friday, Feb. 10— Elementary breakfast: Cereal or cinnamon roll, hard cooked egg.

Elementary lunch: Ham & cheese sub or PB&J “uncrustable,” fresh vegetables, chips, applesauce, mandarin oranges, milk.

High school breakfast: Entree options: Cereal, cheese stick, “Gripz” gra-

ham crackers, cinnamon roll, sausage links, Pop Tart.

High school lunch: Ham & cheese sub or grilled chicken sub, fresh vegetables, tangy broccoli salad, strawberries, grapes, chips, milk.

Monday, Feb. 13— Elementary breakfast: Cereal or french toast sticks, sausage links.

Elementary lunch: Pizza sticks or Italian flatbread, spaghetti sauce, garden salad bar, strawberries, blueberries, milk.

High school breakfast: Entree options: Cereal, hard cooked egg, Krave S’mores, muffin, Pop Tart, donut.

High school lunch: Pizza sticks or Italian flatbread, spaghetti sauce, milk, garden salad bar, applesauce, blueberries, “Jonny Pop” fruit bar.

Tuesday, Feb. 14— Elementary breakfast: Cereal or Mini Cinni, smoothie.

Elementary lunch: Meatballs or hot dog on

a bun, tator tots, steamed corn, orange smiles, milk.

High school breakfast: Entree options: Cereal, “Gripz” graham crackers, muffin, yogurt, bagel with jelly, ham & cheese sandwich.

High school lunch: Meatballs or hot dog on a bun, tator tots, steamed corn, orange wedges, sliced pears, milk.

Wednesday, Feb. 15— Elementary breakfast: Cereal or cheese stick or ham & cheese bagel.

Elementary lunch: Stromboli or PB&J uncrustable,” or “Goldfish bowl” garden salad bar, grapes, pudding cup, milk.

High school breakfast: Entree options: Cereal, yogurt, cereal bar, blueberry lemon bites, PB&J “uncrustable,” banana bread.

High school lunch: Stromboli or garlic cheese french bread, garden salad bar, sliced apples, sliced peaches, pudding cup, milk.

25

Crex Meadows hosts several February and March events GRANTSBURG, Wis. – Winter weather means fun winter events at Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area join Department of Natural Resources staff and the Friends of Crex for upcoming events in February and March.

Feb. 6, Feb. 20, March 6 and March 20 (Mondays) from 5-7:00 p.m. - Crex Conservation Book Club Join a DNR wildlife conservation educator this winter for bi-monthly Conservation Book Club events. As a group, attendees will read conservation-related book per month and discuss personal and societal connections. This event is for participants ages 16 and older - pre-registration is required. Books will be provided at cost.

Feb. 3 and Feb. 17 (Fridays) from 10–11:00 a.m. - Snowshoe Hikes Join DNR staff for a series of guided snowshoe hikes on the trails at Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area. Participants will learn more about winter wildlife and skills and develop confidence hiking in snowshoes. Snowshoes will be provided.

Saturday, Feb. 4, 6–8 p.m. - Crex Candlelight Snowshoe Hike Enjoy a peaceful evening walking or snowshoeing on the 1.25 mile trail be-

hind the Crex Visitors Center. Luminaries will light the way through the woods, and hot chocolate and baked goods will be available afterward.

Snowshoes will be available on a first come, first served basis. Participants may also bring show shoes from home - all ages are welcome.

March 13-16, 9a.m. to 12 p.m. Kids Winter Recreation Days This day camp offers a unique opportunity to learn science and conservation through hands-on outdoor experiences, including snowshoeing, finding winter wildlife sign, tracking and challenge courses. This event is recommended for youth ages 8 to 15 and parents are welcome to join. , Class size is limited to 20 students - pre-registration required.

For more information, contact Lauren Finch, DNR wildlife educator/ technician, at 715-463-2739. Crex Meadows State Wildlife Area is located at 102 East Crex Ave., Grantsburg, Wis. Wildlife conservation education programs are supported by Friends of Crex. For more information, visit www.crexmeadows.org [EXIT DNR] or follow the group on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

Please report your Crex wildlife observations via email: information@ crexmeadows.org.

Amery FFA Chapter and Amery Free Press are cooperating to produce a special supplement for the Tuesday, Feb. 21, edition.

KANABEC COUNTY

TIMES

PIONEER

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 222

VOL. 131 NO. 19

www.moraminn.com $1

PINE CITY

COMMERCIAL & INDUSTRIAL ELECTRICIANS LOOKING FOR WORK! We have a Full-Service Team of Electricians who specialize in Installation & Maintenance Projects for Commercial and Industrial buildings!

COMPETITIVE * LOCAL * QUALITY WORK * DEPENDABLE * HIGHLY SKILLED We’d Appreciate the Opportunity to Bid on Your Heating • Cooling • Geothermal • Electrical • Plumbing • Fireplacess Project!

(800) 370-6545

Osceola, Ellsworth & Hudson, WI • ComfortByDesign.Net

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 2 If you have not been contacted or have a question about the supplement, please contact Pam at 715-268-8101.

Deadline is Friday, Feb. 10, 2017.

FREE PRESS MESSENGER

VOL. 131 NO. 19

www.moraminn.com

AMERY

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 2

VOL. 131 NO. 19

www.moraminn.com

215 S. Keller Ave., Amery, WI 54001 Phone 715-268-8101 Fax 715-268-5300 Email: phumpal@theameryfreepress.com www.theameryfreepress COUNTRY

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 2

26 AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017 www.theameryfreepress.com

AMERY COMMUNITY EDUCATION If you did not receive a Community Education brochure in your mail, you can pick one up at any of the 4 schools or the public library. You can also view the entire brochure and register online through the Community Ed link on the Amery School website www.amerysd. k12.wi.us Pre-register for all classes and events by mail, in person, online (www.amerysd.k12.wi.us) or by phone. For more information call 715-268-9771 x220 or email commed@amerysd.k12.wi.us.

Rumble Jumble Open Gym for toddlers and preschoolers in the Intermediate School on Tuesday mornings through March from 11-11:45 am.

Pickleball - Open Gym in the High School on Wednesday nights from 5:45-8 p through March (closed Mar 8) Open Gym for Families sponsored

by PowerUp on Sundays - Feb 19 & March 12 from 1:30-3:30 p in the Intermediate – enter through the doors facing the NORTH parking lot.

Basketball Winter Rec for youth and families on Sundays in the Middle School from 1:30-3:30 p until March 12.

Grades 4-12 and younger if with parents.

Enter through North doors.

After School Martial Arts Club: 4K through Grade 5 will have fun with the skills of Kyuki-Do while learning about Courtesy, Humility, Integrity, Perseverance, Self-Control and Indomitable Spirit. Ten-week class on Tuesdays from Feb 7-Apr 18 (skip Mar 7) after school until 4:10 p. Fee $100 includes uniform. Optional belt fee in class $20. Pre-register with Comm Ed. Pre-Robotics for Grades 3-5 will introduce and/or enhance STEM and learning skills for grades 3-5 using Lego blocks and a computer coding interactive program. Tues & Thurs, Feb 7 through Mar 2, after school until 5 p.

Fee $84, pre-register with Comm Ed. Knitting a Shawl: With just a few basic stitches you will be able to knit a triangle-shaped shawl with a pattern of eyelets. Knowledge of knitting and purling are required, and you will learn how to yarn-over to create the lacy pattern.

Bring sz 4 needles, 400 yds fingering weight yarn (sz 3 on the ball band), and a yarn needle for sewing in ends. Feb 9, 16 and Mar 2 from 6-8 p. Fee $27, pre-register with Comm Ed Snowshoe, Yoga & Brunch: Snowshoe and explore the beautiful trails of the Amery School Forest then head inside for a yoga session designed to relax the body and calm the mind. To finish,

we will enjoy a delicious breakfast in community. Everyone is welcome, no experience needed. Snowshoes provided. Sat, Feb 11 from 8-11 a. Fee $25, pre-register with Comm Ed. Gymnastics – Tiny Tumbling Warriors, Beginners & Intermediate classes on Tuesday & Thursday evenings. New session begins Feb 14 with classes at 4:00, 4:45 and 5:30. Pre-register.

CPR/AED/Basic First Aid certification/recertification: learn to recognize emergencies, perform CPR, use an AED and perform first aid until EMS arrives.

Feb 15 from 5-9 p. Fee $43, pre-register with Community Ed. MS Word Beginning: Learn word processing basics and tips to create, edit and format documents; understand files and folders; check spelling and grammar; change font and font size; create tables, tabs, envelopes, labels, borders and shading and much more. Basic computer and keyboarding skills required.

Feb 16, 21 & 23 from 5:30-7:30 p. WITC fee $24.05 or Sr fee $4.50. Pre-register with WITC: www.witc.edu or 1-800-2439482 ext 4221. WITC ID #27343 Learn to DRAW with Confidence with artist Paul Oman: learn to "see" as an artist. Paul will show basic, readily available "tools" that participants can use to achieve correct angles, proportions, and perspectives. Any ability level is welcome: all ability levels will benefit. For age 14 or older. Feb 16 & 23 from 6:30-8:30 p. Fee $41, pre-register with Comm Ed. Wheys to Use Milk! Make a soft cheese (similar to ricotta) with a gallon of whole milk! Add a few herbs and spices, and create your own signature cheese. Learn to use the remaining protein-rich whey in other foods. Feb 21 from 6-8 p. Fee $14, pre-register with Community Ed. Supply fee pay at class $5 Essential Oil Basics: Discover the history, safety and many uses for essential oils. Feb 27 from 6-7 p. Fee $9 to Community Ed, pre-register Instant Pot - Homemade Soups: Join Katie and make “bone broth” using scraps you would have usually thrown away. We’ll take that broth and use it to make some healthy homemade soups: dairy free sausage and kale, chili, and one other. Ask questions, share recipes and sample our creations. All skill levels welcome. If you have an Instant Pot, bring it with you. Feb 27 from 6-8 p. Fee $14, pre-register with Community Ed. Supply fee $10, pay at class.

Catching Up— While working on this week’s column, a family emergency Growing came up and up in I was away for Amery awhile.

Loren Elkin My wife Marilyn’s sister died in Bloomer. I find times like this a slow down and inventory time, trying to figure out what’s really important. So I’m going to write a short column, catching up on calls and emails from you Free Press readers. The NUTS column will have to wait for a week.

Ralph Johnson has been mentioned by several people, and one talent he had that I neglected to mention was his singing ability.

He was in choir 2 years, according to the AHS yearbook, but participated in choral (solo and ensemble) contests all four years at Amery High School. His stuttering disappeared when he sang. Baseball was the only sport he participated in all four years.

Former music in-

structor Dick Olson contacted me and told me that Doris Johnson did participate in choir at Our Savior’s on a regular basis. My oversight, and Dick’s mom was the choir director there for years (the old Our Savior’s). He also enlightened me about other details of the JP Johnson family. JP had a severe hearing problem which influenced what he did and how he communicated.

Smoky’s daughter Janet called me for a

story idea concerning the long time veterinarian Renee Ganade (sp) in Amery. Her energy impressed me, and I found myself smiling at her comments, even when she wasn’t trying to be funny. To make it brief, she said her dad Smoky and a Jim Anderson were responsible in part for talking the long-time veterinarian into staying in the Amery area.

More later.

Good healing wishes to Dave Myers and his recent surgery. Still thinking that someone at the UM Athletic Dept. would be interested in your adventure.

Upcoming story has to do with nuts and the Amery area. Just wondering if anyone recalls the heated nut displays at both Chet’s and Danielson’s Drug Stores. White, turntable in the middle, and a variety of warm nuts for sale on display. Maybe Chet’s still has the item in their basement archives. Anyone, help?

That’s it, just want to write two more ideas.

First of all, I know that many of you read the column and either it applies to you or you have information that would add to the topics. The problem is I hear from so few of you.

I’ll include my phone number when possible, that might get more of you contacting me.

Secondly, I want to thank the Amery Free Press for printing my column. It costs me nothing to have it in the weekly Free Press. Hats off to them for helping me get the word out, the column out, and aspects of Amery to the world.

Web site coming soon, Loren will post the name when is ready to go. Otherwise call Loren at 715-887-2170 or email him at elkfarm@ wctc.net.

CALL NOW 1-800-661-2240

New stock has arrived for Valentine’s Day www.1866GetAPro.com

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

27

Local non-profits benefit from Edina Realty grant

Community Center Support Jim Richison of Bremer Bank was presented with a certificate of appreciation from Amery Area Community Center board members (left to right) Carl Johnson, (recipient Jim Richison), Milt Johnson, and Wendell Anderson. Bremer Bank provided financial support to the center, and is a sustaining partner of the organization.

Amery Area Community Center President Todd L. Beaver presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Fran Duncanson, who accepted on behalf of the City of Amery in its support of the organization.

Edina, Minn.—January 26, 2017 — The Edina Realty Foundation announced that the St. Croix Falls office recently awarded grants to Northwood Homeless, Positive Alternatives, Inc. and Salvation Army Serenity House.

Northwood Homeless provides shelter to homeless families and individuals in Polk County, Wisconsin and the surrounding area. They provide support and case management while their residents are addressing the issues that caused the homeless situation, and assist them in the process of identifying and moving into affordable, permanent housing.

Positive Alternatives, Inc., is a private non-profit, community-based, multi-service organization serving youth and families in Wisconsin.

Through a continuum of family and strengthbased services, Positive Alternatives strives to equip at-risk youth and young adults with the social, emotional and developmental skills needed to flourish.

Salvation Army Se-

renity House provides safe temporary shelter to homeless individuals and families without discrimination, while giving guidance to promote independent living. Residents are provided with food and personal care items and are assisted in their search for affordable housing. Securing permanent employment for residents is also an important part of their program.

“Our primary purpose is to help people buy and sell homes,” said Patti Katzmark, Foundation Representative, Edina Realty St. Croix Falls office. “But adequate shelter and other basic needs are a major issue for some people in our community.

We are proud to support organizations like Northwood Homeless, Positive Alternatives, Inc. and Salvation Army Serenity House that are helping provide vital services for people who need our support.”

Created in 1996, the Edina Realty Foundation supports organizations that help homeless children, families and individuals in the communi-

ties where Edina Realty does business. Much of the grant money comes directly from REALTORS® and employees as well as from Edina Realty Home Services real estate, title and mortgage companies. Edina Realty agents and employees hold events throughout the year to help raise additional contributions. To date, the Foundation has donated $9 million. Over 97% of funds raised go directly to organizations that provide housing and other services to the homeless. And 20 years later, we remain steadfast to our commitment to this cause.

On any given night, over 10,000 Minnesotans are homeless, according to Wilder Center research. Nearly half of homeless persons are under age 21, and one-third are children with their families.

For more information about the Edina Realty Foundation, visit edinarealty.com or contact the Edina Realty St. Croix Falls office, call 715-4833833.

Grants Available for 14th Annual Non-Profits to Help Amery Spring Show Veteran Entrepreneurs Featuring Home, Garden and Recreation Applications due February 10, 2017

MADISON — The Wisconsin Department of Veterans Affairs (WDVA) today reminded groups that grant applications are being accepted from registered 501(c)(3) or 501(c)(6) non-profit organizations that provide entrepreneurship training, or technical, business or other assistance to veteran entrepreneurs to improve employment outcomes.

Non-profit organizations interested in applying for this grant opportunity must submit their completed applications by February 10, 2017.

“The veterans community is best served when all veterans organizations work together to provide the best possible services to veterans and their families,” Kathy Marschman, interim secretary for the WDVA said. “Growing veteran employment and creating more veteran-owned businesses is not only good for the veteran, but it is good for our state. We look forward to partnering with organizations that help veterans succeed in entrepreneurship and improve employment outcomes in our state.”

The following criteria will be evaluated as part of the grant application: •Background and Organizational His-

tory •Organizational Qualifications and Past Performance •Experience Working with Veterans •Need for Grant Funding •Outreach and Referral Plan •Program and Implementation Timeline •Monitoring and Program Evaluation •Program Goals and Objectives •Past Working Relationships with other Start-up Businesses and Entrepreneurship Programs The Entrepreneurship Grant program was passed by the legislature and signed into law by Governor Walker and includes a maximum total of up to $400,000 during the period of July 1, 2016 – June 30, 2017. To qualify, non-profit organizations must be located in this state and registered and in good standing with the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions.

Application materials for this grant are available online by clicking here or by going to www.WisVets.com. Applications and questions about the grant application process should be directed to Chad McCafferty at 1-800-WIS-VETS.

Sponsored by the

Friday, April 7, 5 to 8 p.m.

Saturday, April 8, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

AMERY ICE ARENA

River Place Drive, Amery

Businesses call now to reserve your space We’ll have displays of building suppliers, financial institutions, car dealerships, home furnishings, water conditioning, contractors, electronics, appliances, ATVs, boats, docks, landscaping, heating/air conditioning, and more . . .

Contact Pam at the Amery Free Press 715-268-8101 today to get signed up! phumpal@theameryfreepress.com

28 AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017 www.theameryfreepress.com

National “Give Kids a Smile” Day was in Amery on Friday, Feb. 3 offering dental services to area students

Dental Arts

River Place Dental

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 Journey Church (formerly First Baptist), Amery, Mondays from 1:302:30 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..

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

29

This February artZ gallery goes “Just a Little Wild” The theme this February at artZ gallery is “Just a little wild,” with various artists presenting their interpretation of the theme.

New Richmond Clothing and textile artist, Carol Reanne Jones started sewing garments when she was 10 years old, and has always experimented with making things. In 2015 Carol attended the “Women’s Art Institute”, a joint venture between St. Catherine’s University and the Minneapolis Institute of Art. This experience helped her to see herself as an artist. “I enjoy the architectural nature of sewing; that is, taking an idea from 2 to 3 dimensions. I start with a concept, designing step by step, looking for unexpected details along the way. “”I have had the privilege of sewing for people for their most important events. My favorite projects have been making baptism dresses from wedding gowns.” In this show, Carol will include unique women’s shirts, capes, quilted wall pieces and some over-the-top display pieces.

influenced by her two favorite artists: Henri Matisse and Gustav Klimt, the use of color and her need to embellish with “Loose Threads”.

New Richmond jewelry artist Edna Grotjahn Early’s diverse art experiences extend from her art degree at UW-River Falls, teaching art at the New Richmond Middle and High Schools, studying heritage weaving in Greece, glass blowing with Erwin Eisch in

Star Prairie fiber artist Barb Erickson has a strong background in Graphic Arts. Her cottage industry “Loose Threads” centers on the creation of wearable art, handbags, scarves, clothing and table wear. Her work is most

Traffic deaths in January were tied for third lowest since WWII Last month 32 people died in Wisconsin traffic crashes, which tied it for the third safest month of January in terms of traffic fatalities since World War II, according to preliminary statistics from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT).

The safest month of January was in 2010 with 20 fatalities. January 2010 also had the lowest number of traffic deaths of any month since fatality records were first compiled in 1937. The deadliest January was in 1964 with 82 fatalities.

Traffic fatalities last month equaled January 2016 and were five fewer than the five-year average for the month of January. So far this year, 21 drivers, 10 passengers and one pedestrian have died in crashes.

Distracted driving by motorists of all ages continues to be a major factor in a large number of fatal and serious injury crashes, according to David Pabst, director of the WisDOT Bureau of Transportation Safety.

“To help prevent fatal and serious injury crashes, you need to pay strict attention to traffic and road conditions while behind the wheel,” Pabst says. “If you use a cell phone, eat a meal, or search for items inside your vehicle while driving, you’re increasing your risk of a crash. Eliminating distractions while driving is even more critical this time of year when winter weather conditions reduce your visibility and your vehicle’s traction. If you don’t pay attention to your driving, you’re much more likely to cause a crash or fail to avoid one.”

Frauenau, Germany, teaching private art lessons at Freie Kunst Studieren in Wiesbaden, Germany, designing unique jewelry and instructing painting classes at The Space in New Richmond. Her personally designed jewelry takes rather flat mundane items (beads/metals) and putting them together with unexpected shiny items (crystals/pearls); she prefers the juxtaposition of shiny with dull, the everyday exotic. Edna started to explore 3-dimensions in her jewelry, which encouraged the show theme, "Just a Little Wild".

Osceola photographer Earl Duckett’s panoramic scenes are always changing at artZ gallery. “A couple of years ago, I decided to do a series of photographs of the St. Croix River. The pieces in this exhibit are the first photos of that series.

These photos are primarily centered on the St. Croix River gorge. Most are taken from a boat so it gives the viewer a sense of being on the water, looking at the amazing landscape. I hope you enjoy them as much as I enjoyed taking them. The St. Croix River is a beautiful place. If you haven’t been on the river, I encourage you to set up a trip. If you do get a chance to go, I hope to see you on the river.”

artz Gallery is an artist owned and operated gallery, with changing monthly exhibits featuring member and guest artists. Artists who are interested in exhibiting can pick up application information at the Gallery or: www.artzgallery.org artZ Gallery is located at 208 North Keller Ave. in Amery, Wisconsin. Hours are Monday through Saturday, 10–5:00.

AMERY AREA COMMUNITY CENTER

30th Anniversary Open House planned for April 3 We want to sincerely thank all of you who became new members during our January matching program, as well as our anonymous donor! We are very excited about our 30th Anniversary Open House which will take place on Monday, April 3rd from 11am-1pm and hope to see many of you there. Thank you to Dairy Queen, Amery Family Restaurant and RCU who have offered to supply refreshments for this event.

Congratulations to our 2017 Board of Directors who were voted in during our Annual Meeting. The Board consists of Todd Beaver- President, Milt JohnsonFirst Vice President, Judie Johnson- Second Vice President, Sue Johnson- Secretary, Dirk Prindle- Treasurer, Jerry Tessman- Finance, Pete Waggoner- Personnel, Carl Johnson- Director, Wendell Anderson- Director, and our newest member- Joyce Gullickson- Director. We truly appreciate all you do for the Center!

We are still looking for vendors to participate in our Annual

Health & Wellness Expo which takes place on Friday March 17th.

Tables must be reserved and paid for by March 15th and cost $30 for an 8’ table.

Our next vendor event will take place on Saturday March 18th from 10am-1pm. Table rentals are $25 if you are not a member of the Center and $10 if you are. We do not allow duplicate product names so please contact us at 715-268-6605 if you have any questions.

Identity theft continues to be a growing problem in the world today. Royal Credit Union will present information on this subject at Centennial Hall on Thursday, February 9th at 1pm. This is open to the public and free of charge.

There will be a drawing for a door prize as well! Please RSVP to 715268-6605.

Miss Amans 4th Grade Class will visit the Center again on Tuesday, February 14th at 10:30am.

The kids will interact with our members doing various activities, reading and coloring. We hope to see a lot of our members here that

day to participate in this wonderful intergenerational program!

If you like playing cards we have two fun games you might be interested in. Our 500 Card Party takes place on the 2nd and 4th Tuesdays at 6:30 and Hand & Foot Cards take place on Thursdays at 12:30pm. You just have to be a member of the Community Center to participate.

Tuesday pool winners were Paul Seidel in first, Mary Fisher took second, Carl Johnson placed third, Stinger took fourth and Roger Lovald went home with the consolation prize.

Thursday pool winners were Gary Snelling in first place, Carl Johnson came in second, Roger Lovald placed third, and Paul Seidel came in fourth.

Wednesday bridge winners were Pat Carlson in first, Lila Ward came in second, and Barb Harris placed third.

Congratulations to all!

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

30 AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017 www.theameryfreepress.com

Foreign Persons Must Report U.S. Agricultural Land Holdings (Balsam Lake, WI) – February 1, 2017-- The Executive Director for the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Farm Service Agency USDA (FSA) in Polk United States County, Aaron Department reminds of Agriculture Moore, foreign persons Aaron Moore with an interest in agricultural lands in the United States that they are required to report their holdings and any transactions to the U.S. Secretary of Agriculture.

"Any foreign person who acquires, transfers or holds any interest, other than a security interest, including leaseholds of 10 years or more, in agricultural land in the United States is required by law

to report the transaction no later than 90 days after the date of the transaction," said Moore.

Foreign investors must file Agricultural Foreign Investment Disclosure Act (AFIDA) reports with the FSA county office that maintains reports for the county where the land is located.

“Failure to file a report, filing a late report or filing an inaccurate report can result in a penalty with fines up to 25 percent of the fair market value of the agricultural land,” said Moore.

For AFIDA purposes, agricultural land is defined as any land used for farming, ranching or timber production, if the tracts total 10 acres or more.

Disclosure reports are also required when there are changes in land use. For example, reports are required when land use changes

from nonagricultural to agricultural or from agricultural to nonagricultural. Foreign investors must also file a report when there is a change in the status of ownership such as the owner changes from foreign to non-foreign, from non-foreign to foreign or from foreign to foreign.

Data gained from these disclosures is used to prepare an annual report to the President and Congress concerning the effect of such holdings upon family farms and rural communities in the United States.

For more information regarding AFIDA and FSA programs, contact the Polk County FSA office at 715485-3138 or visit the USDA website at http://www.usda.gov.

Inauguration 2017 "The nations rage," was said, while some rejoice.

Even within, double-side vibes arise, parties on each side heed every voice.

What high goals aspired, honoring each choice, with contest intense waged to gain the prize.

"The nations rage," was said, while some rejoice.

Near cheers of congratulations, angry noise, glass breaks, burned car sends flames into the skies; parties on each side heed every voice.

Does Lady Liberty stand high with awesome poise?

Passions discordant, protest and support comprise.

"The nations rage," was said, while some rejoice.

Children and grandchildren proud to see the choice, peaceful, changed administration, wise, Parties on each side heed every voice.

Inauguration launches what is new; we pray the healing and the nation's rise.

As nations rage, inevitable, rejoice; A Nation Under God; We'll heed His voice.

Carol Morfitt Welch

EXPRESS LOAN®

Wild Rivers Habitat for Humanity Announces Changes in ReStore Management St. Croix Falls, Wis.— Wild Rivers Habitat for Humanity (WRHFH) has announced changes to its ReStore retail management staff. These changes are the final phase of the organization’s 2013 merger resulting in an expanded service area of Burnett, Polk, Rusk and Washburn Counties. “ReStore operations are a key component to the organization’s sustainability and sales, and along with grants and donations, fund our housing efforts. These management changes are a direct reflection of our leadership team’s focus on professionalizing our organization and a commitment to serving all of the communities within our service area.” said Jennifer Johnson, Executive Director of WRHFH. Laura Baker has been promoted to ReStore Manager and will oversee all retail operations.

Baker joined WRHFH in 2013 as the Spooner ReStore Assistant Manager and was promoted

to Store Manager in 2014.

Under Baker’s supervision, the Spooner ReStore has experienced growth in both sales and donor base.

“Laura’s eight years in big box retail has been a tremendous asset and will be key in the successful leadership and the growth of our retail operations. Our leadership team will draw upon her knowledge and experience to continue the success of the Spooner location, improve our business operations in St Croix Falls and establish retail operations in other portions of our service area.” stated Johnson.

Bing Ellingworth and Sandy Nusbaum will oversee the daily operations at the St Croix Falls ReStore and Spooner ReStore, respectively. Ellingworth joined WRHFH in 2014 as the St Croix Falls Assistant Manager.

Nusbaum joined WRHFH in 2014. “We are fortunate to have leaders on staff like Bing and Sandy who aren’t afraid to try new things. Bing has already implement-

ed many new ideas intended to improve the customer experience in St Croix Falls. Sandy is the heart of the Spooner ReStore. Her exceptional customer service skills, volunteer management and understanding of retail operations have been key to the success of the Spooner ReStore. Both Bing and Sandy fully embrace our organizational goals and are well respected among our volunteers, staff and customers.” said Johnson.

Customers will have the opportunity to meet all of the new managers at the ReStore Customer Appreciation Day on February 14th in St Croix Falls and February 15th in Spooner. The day features complimentary cookies, coffee and hot chocolate along with the opportunity to win a 50% off coupon by guessing the number of pieces in the candy jar. In addition, customers will receive a 14% discount off of their purchases that day.

No shovel required.

WINTER WONDERLAND GOT YOU DOWN? WESTconsin’s Express Loan makes it easy to get out of town when you can’t even get out of the driveway!

NOT JUST VACATIONS, EITHER. You can finance your remodeling project, buy a new family vehicle, or even consolidate snowballing holiday bills.

Competitive rates Flexible terms A convenient application process

(800) 924-0022, or conveniently apply online at westconsincu.org.

Call us at

YOUR MONEY IS OFTEN READY IN ONE DAY OR LESS!

Federally insured by NCUA

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

AMERY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY No school program Magic Norm presents his magical comedy show, February 20 at 10 a.m.

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.

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

Check out the website Check out the library website at 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.

Long Term Care: Planning for My Future Needs – Live webinar – February 23, 2017 A webinar entitled “Long Term Care: Planning for My Future Needs” will be held, Thursday, February 23, at the Polk County UW-Extension office in Balsam Lake. This webinar is the sixth in a series of webinars from UW-Extension that will focus on a variety of farm succession topics. This two-hour long webinar begins at 1 p.m.

Farm business owners looking to the future of their farming operations have many issues to consider. Succession planning includes planning for the owner generation’s later years; business planning to ensure the operations has financial capacity; developing the successor’s management skills; and estate and tax planning.

One important planning step that can be overlooked or may be avoided because it’s an uncomfortable topic is planning for long term care needs.

Careful consideration of your goals and the options available is important to develop the right care plan for care in your later years.

This webinar is for both the owner and successor generations to learn

Wisconsins’s Birkebeiner Ski Race seeks volunteers CABLE--In just over two weeks, the Winter Olympics will come to Wisconsin in the form of the American Birkebeiner Ski Marathon, the largest ski race in the United States, Sat., Feb. 25.

Celebrating 44 years of bringing skiers from all over the world to ski 52 kilometers from Cable to Hayward, the Birkie offers a unique opportunity to see Olympic-class athletes competing in our area. Athletes, and members of international skiing teams, who compete for their countries in Olympic years, will travel to northwest Wisconsin to ski the Birkie.

Several million dollars are pumped into Northwest Wisconsin’s economy each year by the Birkie, and people stay as far away from Hayward as Siren, to be part of the event.

Over 12,000 skiers are registered to take part in Birkebeiner events that are held around the Hayward area Feb. 23-26.

Over two thousand volunteers are needed each year to provide liquids and on-course nutrition to the skiers during the race. There are nine food stations on the race route,

spaced over the 52 kilometers, and race organizers are in need of volunteers every year to provide this support. This can be used as a community service project for most students.

Volunteers receive Birkie hats and event pins, lunch, and a volunteer party invitation with a chance to win door prizes.

If you would like to be part of this rich history of the American Birkebeiner Ski Marathon, and would consider helping for a few hours on Friday,

Feb. 24, or Saturday, Feb. 25, email local Birkebeiner Race Chief of the Gravel Pit Food Station, William Johnson, wfjohnson004@ gmail.com for more information.

New in 2017 is the Korteloppet race being held on Friday the 24th and volunteers are also needed at the Gravel Pit food stop for a couple hours.

Registration to volunteer is easy on-line. Just go to www.birkie.com and click through the steps under volunteering, scroll down and click on

31

the Gravel Pit food station from the list of options.

You can choose the Korteloppet on Friday, or the full Birkie on Saturday (or both, if you really feel like being a mega-volunteer!)

Every year there are skiers from all 50 States and as many as 20 Countries competing at the Birkie. This is a chance to show off the best of the USA to the world. For more information on the race and its unique place in Wisconsin history visit www.birkie.com.

about long term care options and how to evaluate long term care insurance.

Steve Shapiro, a Medigap Insurance Counselor for the State of Wisconsin, Medigap Helpline, will lead the webinar and topics include: •What is Long Term Care?

•What is the definition of Long Term Care?

•When do I need Long Term Care?

•What are the costs of Long Term Care and who pays for Long Term Care?

•Medicare vs Long Term Care Insurance?

•Types of Long Term Care Insurance/Philosophy of need for LTCI. •Long Term Care Insurance Consumer protections and purchase scenarios.

•Long Term Care Insurance Costs and Benefits/Alternative resources.

The webinar is free of charge but pre-registration is required as space is limited. For more information or to register call the Polk County UW-Extension office – (715)485-8600.

Copies made and Faxes sent Amery Free Press 215 S. Keller Ave., Amery

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

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

“I chose Hearthside Assisted living because it was the ideal location for being close to family! The food is excellent and I enjoy all the different activities.

I can’t think of one thing to say that isn’t good about living here!”

Betty Aspenson, Moved in June, 2016

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 A food stop at the American Birkebeiner Ski Race.

Call today to learn more or to schedule a tour!

32 AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017 www.theameryfreepress.com

COLLEGE HONORS AND ACCOLADES Students for fall term receive Chancellor’s Award Menomonie, Wis. - The following students from the area have received the University of Wisconsin-Stout Chancellor’s Award for the fall 2016 semester.

The award is presented to students who have a grade point average of 3.5 or above.

Amery, WI Amanda Hatella, B.S. human development and family studies Olivia Mills, B.S. business administration Andrea Ollig, B.S. information technology management Balsam Lake, WI Karlie Moening, B.S. criminal justice and rehabilitation Kyle Sorensen, B.S. manufacturing engineering Centuria, WI Cash Hickethier, B.S. business administration Clayton, WI Jake Anderson, B.S. game design and development-computer science Kelsey Anderson, B.S. human development and family studies Bryce Befort, B.S. science education Jami Donath, B.S. human development and family studies Jeni Donath, B.S. human development and family studies Joni Donath, B.S. vocational rehabilitation Carter Kindschy, B.S. applied science, pre-physicians assistant/pre-professional Clear Lake, WI Brittney Hoglund, B.F.A. graphic design and interactive media Collin Kuhn, B.S. hotel, restaurant and tourism Dylan Schramski, B.S. engineering technology Megan Talbert, B.S. dietetics Dresser, WI Victoria Anderberg, B.F.A. entertainment design Dillon Hopke, B.S. mechanical engineering, B.S. engineering technology Casey Mikl, undeclared Joshua Schaefer, B.S. computer engineering Frederic, WI Nicole Nelson, B.S. health, wellness and fitness Milltown, WI Justin Aronson, B.S. engineering technology Jared Peper, B.F.A. industrial design Osceola, WI Jade Beaver, B.S. cross-media graphics management Bailey Carlson, B.S. business administration Kelly Ellwanger, B.S. psychology Thomas Rosik, B.S. game design and development-computer science Derrick Schmidt, B.S. health, wellness and fitness Saint Croix Falls, WI Kierstyn Campbell, B.F.A. interior de-

Need a High Efficient Furnace or Central Air Conditioning?

Call

Fall Electric Clear Lake

715-263-2121

sign Drew Dumke, B.S. health, wellness and fitness Noah Olson, B.S. psychology Erik Segelstrom, B.S. health, wellness and fitness Brenna Sullivan, B.S. cross-media graphics management Star Prairie, WI Mitchell Dulon, B.S. engineering technology

Concordia Univ. Wisconsin releases Fall Honors List CONCORDIA, Wis. - Concordia University Wisconsin officials have released the Fall Honors List for the 20162017 academic year. To be eligible for the honor, students must achieve a minimum 3.50 GPA. Among the area students named to the list were: Amery: Lisa Humphrey, Freshman, Rehab-Sci-Transitional Luck: Alicia Sund, Senior, Nursing-Tradit Undergrad

Gustavus Adolphus College Announces 2016 Fall Semester Dean’s List ST. PETER, Minn. - The Fall Semester Dean’s List at Gustavus Adolphus College has been released. The list comprises students who have earned a 3.7 grade point average (based on a scale in which 4.0 = A) or higher for the semester ending in December 2016.

The following local students were named to the Dean’s List at Gustavus Adolphus College: Olivia Ward, Osceola

PTCC Honor Students Announced PINE CITY, Minn. - Pine Technical & Community College is pleased to announce the fall 2016 honor students.

Full-time students who have received a 4.0 GPA for fall semester are included on the President’s List. Full-time students who earn a GPA of 3.0-3.9 are included on the Dean’s List. Part-time students who are enrolled in 6-11 credits and have maintained a GPA of 3.5 are named to the Notable Achievement List.

Balsam, WI Joy Randall, Notable Achievement Centuria, WI Luke Becker, Dean’s List Clear Lake, WI Brady Hoglund, Dean’s List Frederic, WI Chad Splittstoesser, Dean’s List Ruth Taylor, Dean’s List Milltown, WI Bailey Soper, Notable Achievement Saint Croix Falls, WI Deon Maassen, Notable Achievement Lauren Houston, President’s List Kalyn Waterman, Dean’s List

320 Keller Ave., Amery • 715-268-5626

We service all makes and models

Oil Change • Tires • Exhaust • Suspension

WE DO IT ALL!

Clear Lake Junior/ Senior High 2nd Quarter Honor Roll Grade 12— “A” Honor Roll: Christian Briesemeister, Jake Doyle, Kyle Fritz, Allen Kobernick, Makayla Madison, Autumn Ninke, Courtney Swagger, Elaine Ullrich, Kaysha Vinzant.

“B” Honor Roll: Cameron Fouks, Tiana Frank, Jordan Iverson, Abigail Johnson, William Laursen, Mikaela Lemons, Haley Monette, Logan Raschick, Andrew Renteria.

Grade 11— “A” Honor Roll: Erin Cockroft, Gabriel Colbeth, Julianna Erickson, Samantha Hurd, Nichole Keller, Thomas Knops, Mason Krueger, Malena Larson, Shawna Larson, Joshua Levra, Hunter Levy, Camryn Lillie, Clara Pearson, Parker Reindahl, Calvin Rosen, Sean Singh, Rhett Steffen, Regina Strenke, Jessica Warner, Krystalaina Weiss, Noah Wieczorek.

“B” Honor Roll: Madeline Andersen, Austin Anderson, Ryan Anderson, Jayden Bowell, Brett Brabec, Hunter Brenne, Vania Daniels, Nicholas Elmer, Lucas Kaczmarski, Trevor Kivi, Montana Niles, Madelynn Powers, Conner Schramski, Grace Tolzman, Jennica Warner, Kyle Whitmer, James Williams.

Grade 10— “A” Honor Roll: Brittany Avery, Bailey Blanchard, Korey Catts, Alexis Cunningham, Elizabeth Grahovac, Jackson Heibel, Aleena Krueger, Kasey Larson, Brandtsen Laursen, Gabriella Loenser, Katherine Petersen, Evan Rogers, Emma Schmidt, Aubree Schramski, Abby Warner, Megan Zimmer.

“B” Honor Roll: Joseph Espeseth, Kincaid Hughes, Kenneth Johnson, Jeremy Kuhn, Alixander Logan, Isaac Pearson, Mallory Pigman, Bailey Robl.

Grade 9— “A” Honor Roll: Abigail Aune, Jalyn Bad Horse, Kenedi Brenne, Alex Burbach, Nichole Catts, William Fitzer, Samantha Haley, Ryan Hayden, Mason Iverson, Samantha Kelly, Natalie Kreier, Peyton Lillie, Kaylee Madison, Kiley Mott, Julianna Rosen, Maggie Rosen, Ivan Ruble, Rayne Vangsness, Madison Zimmer. ”B” Honor Roll: Taylor Atkins, Rayna Brandt, Rhianna Campion, Timothy Knops, Elizabeth Larson, Michael Lillie, Cameryn Matson, Jesse Rogers, Dylan Schwerdtfeger, Jassmyn Warner.

Grade 8— “A” Honor Roll: Mariah Anderson-Nelson, Halle Carlson, Angel Guillen, Leo Hatch, Abigail Keller, Joseph Knops, Shane Larson, Lydia Mara, Julia McIntire, Hannah Monson, Ellen Paatalo, John Pearson, Molly Petersen, Kierra Pickard, Logan Reindahl, Sean Ritterpusch, Rachel Sanftner, Kaylee Sunday, Torian Sylte, Vivian Tulgren, Mackenzie Ward.

“B” Honor Roll: Ashton Duden, Avery Flanum, Lucas Hawkins, Teagan Iverson, Morgan Johnson, Adam Loenser, Edward Monette, Hannah Newville, Joseph O’Connor, Courtney Slobodian, Alexander St. John, Wyatt Steinberger, Kasey Ziemer.

Grade 7— “A” Honor Roll: Kallie Barthman, Lukas Becker, Tyson Blanchard, Brooke Cress, Brooke Hadac, Samantha Hoefferle, Kristyn Katz, Carter Lillie, Jacob Pearson, Josie Peterson, Clara Rasmussen, Emily Roessler, Elizabeth Rosen, Brooklyn Tolzman, Madeline Young.

“B” Honor Roll: Reece Atkins, Wyatt Brihn, Mariah Dutton, Nicholas Haley, Kiyah Krueger, Caleb Logan, Austin Moll, Riley Peterson, Madeline Rosen, Lilly Schone, Michael Walker.

A person needed to care for an elderly person in exchange for room and board.

Any questions call 715-690-7316

J&S Heating & Cooling

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

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

Amery Spring Show

Friday and Saturday April 7 & 8

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

33

Valentine’s Day . . . Meet Your Amery Business Happy Valentine’s Day! Yes I know I am a little early for the special day but with it falling on a Tuesday, if I waited until next week then I would be too late. So let me be the first to say, have Pounding a very special Valentine’s Day! the Looking for just the Pavement right way to show that special someone how Pam Humpal much they mean to you? In this issue are several great ideas such as beautiful flowers, balloons, dining out, ice cream treats, recliners, plus a wonderful reminder to be good to your heart and take care of your health.

of the FFA members during the past year. Area businesses who would like to Congratulate and thank the young men and women involved with Amery FFA should please give me a call today at 715268-8101 to be a part of the special FFA section.

Well did the team you were cheering for win this year’s Super Bowl? I was pulling for Atlanta because with a quarterback named Matt Ryan I figured it was just right for me to go with that team. In case that does not make sense, our sons are Matt & Ryan. And just to

rhinos, etc. But overall, the commercials on Sunday night were very bizarre and disappointing.

Congratulations to Bryan Rubendall of Amery for winning the AFP Super Showdown Contest. Thank you to everyone who sent in their entries/predictions.

One more thing about the Super Bowl…I think Luke Bryan did an awesome job with the National Anthem, and Lady Gaga was very energetic.

The following picture is one that I meant to put in before but now with the end of the football season, I wanted to

“Meet Your Amery Business”…this week’s featured business is DENTAL ARTS. They have been serving the Amery area with dental needs for more than 70 years. Dental Arts offers a professional environment that makes the patient feel comfortable. Their office is located on the north end of Amery looking over North Twin.

Attention parents and grandparents… here is a chance to show off your new little blessing in the paper. Next Tuesday, February 14, we will publish “Bundles of Joy” - Babies born in 2016. Please send in the entry form found in this issue, a colored photo of your 2016 baby along with $35 to the Amery Free Press office. Enjoy your precious little ones as they grow up so fast!

On February 21, the AFP will have a special section for National FFA Week with the assistance of the Amery FFA Chapter. The section will feature activities, projects, and accomplishments

be clear, I did not cheer for Atlanta when they played the Packers…it was just a Super Bowl thing.

More importantly, how did you like the Super Bowl commercials? The one I liked was the Kia commercial with Melissa McCarthy saving the trees, whales,

include it. When we went to the Packer game in Nashville this past November, this flag in the shape of the United States was proudly displayed on the field during the National Anthem. It was very cool!

And staying with sports, Good Luck to the following high school athletes as they begin tournament play… *Wrestling Regionals this Saturday - Amery at St Croix Central, Turtle Lake/Clayton at Cumberland, Clear Lake at home. *Hockey Regionals on Tuesday, February 14 - Amery home vs Grantsburg Coop The 14th Annual Amery Spring Show is set for Friday and Saturday, April 7 and 8, at the Amery Ice Arena.

There will be displays/information on recreation, siding, windows, roofing, vehicles, finances, heating, bathworks, building/remodeling, plumbing, home decorating, and much more. For details on being a part of the Amery Spring Show please give me a call. Proceeds from the show will benefit the Amery Youth Hockey Association, the Amery Area Food Pantry plus a scholarship will be presented to a student. The 14th Annual Amery Spring Show is sponsored by the Amery Free Press.

Happy Birthday wishes this week to my nieces, Lisa on February 10, and to Kristi on February 12. Enjoy your special days!

FULL MOON is this Friday, February 10. It sounds like mild conditions ahead of us so hopefully we will be able to view the beautiful moon.

With this crazy Winter we have been observing with snow, rain, melting and freezing, it has not been good for walking on sidewalks and parking lots. Take it from someone who experienced an icy patch firsthand this week, be careful walking!

Have a great week!

ARNELL MEMORIAL HUMANE SOCIETY Maggie is a two year old Grey Tabby with mittens and medium length hair.

She has beautiful large round green eyes and a

petite frame. Maggie appears to be a timid gal at first, but when she knows she is safe, Maggie is most happy and content.

In your arms she will purr and snuggle with her paws kneading you to continue. Loud noises tend to frighten her. She would do well in a quiet home with older children.

Maggie was surrendered to the shelter from a home with more cats than they could care for. This delicate little sprite is looking for just the right place to

call home.

Café Wren in Luck, WI is adding a Friday night “Trivia with a Twist” contest to the Luck Winter Carnival. Trivia contests aren’t new to Café Wren, but this one has a new twist. Trivia teams will be vying for the honor of picking the recipient of a $1000 charitable donation to an area nonprofit organization.

Teams of four will register to participate with a $25 entrance fee. Seven area nonprofits will be eligible for the prize money, including the Salvation Army, Interfaith Caregivers, Habitat for Humanity, Kinship, the Ice Age Trail, Community Referral Agency and Arnell Humane Society.

The winning team gets to pick where the money goes.

Join the fun with a team or to cheer one on to victory. Trivia with a Twist will be held Friday, February 10, beginning at 7 p.m. in Café Wren’s community room. Triv-

ia questions will cover a broad variety of topics and a range of difficulty levels. A cash bar and snacks will be provided.

Teams of four are encouraged to register in advance by calling Café Wren at 715-472–4700.

The status of pets in our homes has risen considerably over the last 25 years. Most pets are considered a member of the family and receive care and pampering in loving homes. Dogs and cats have enjoyed the benefits of this enlightened approach to pet care. In rural Wisconsin, and across the nation, the outdoor cat population continues to expand and grow with each kitten season.

With too few homes, many cats are left to fend for themselves; finding food and shelter where they can find it. Many a homeowner has called the shelter to say, “They just showed up and I couldn’t just let them starve.” These kind folks

offer daily food and a barn or shed for the cats to find safety and shelter.

And before they know it, they have a colony of cats calling their barn, home.

Without intervention, these cats will produce generations of outdoor cats.

Unsterilized outdoor cats contribute about 80% of the kittens born each year and are the most significant source of cat overpopulation. These cats are

un-owned or semi-owned by the people who care for them. Without access to low cost sterilization, barn cat colonies multiply at an alarming rate and soon the well intentioned caregiver is overwhelmed with meowing mouths to feed.

Arnell Humane Society is offering low cost spay and neuter assistance to Barn Cat caregivers in Polk County. Caregivers supporting feral and semi-feral cat colonies, who offer long term care providing food and shel-

ter, will be eligible for the program.

Applications are available at the Arnell shelter. In addition to financial assistance, Arnell will advise and offer support. It is the goal of the program to offer a humane and proven way to reduce outdoor cat populations, prevent disease outbreaks and lessen the impact of domestic cats on wildlife. For further information, please contact the Arnell shelter, 715 268-7387 (PETS).

CENTRAL AUTO & Towing, LLC Amery • Clayton • Clear Lake 560 70th Ave., CTH J & JJ

Suburban . Commercial . Agricultural Horse Barns & Arenas

Quality Buildings Since 1958 For More Information Call

Ed Beese 715. 768. 5299 Toll Free 800. 225. 2591 waltersbuildings.com

•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)

715-268-6681

WE WILL HELP COVER YOUR DEDUCTIBLES

34 AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017 www.theameryfreepress.com

North Ridge

Meet Your Amery Business

Hearing Company

Stop struggling with Hearing Loss.

•Free 60-Day Trial •Free 4-Year Warranty •Leasing Options Available

Braces & Invisalign as low as

$189/Month NO DOWN PAYMENT

Quality Hearing Care from a state licensed Audiologist.

Deirdre Worrell, F-AAA / CCC-SLP 228 N. Keller Avenue, Amery, WI 54001 751-381-3111 www.NorthRidgeHearing.com

Call 715-246-5165 or visit KristoOrthodontics.com

Amery Discount Liquor 1015 Cornwall Ave., Amery

Good thru Feb. 12, 2017

Coors &12Coors Light pk. cans

Buy 2 Get 1 FREE

“Western Wisconsin’s Largest Variety of Fine Wines & Spirits at Discount Prices”

Golden Age Manor

Back row, left to right: Dr. Van Someren, Becky, DeEtte, Kim, Jen. Middle row: Terri, Michelle, Jess, Chris, Dr. Ott, Lori, Angie.

Front row: Jodi, Sue, Dr. Doroff, Dawn, LuLu. Missing: Dr. Lampi, Cheryl, Kelly, Deb.

220 Scholl Ct., Amery, WI Phone 715-268-7107

David P. Doroff, D.D.S. James J. Lampi, D.D.S. Thomas P. VanSomeren, D.D.S. Amy G. Ott, D.D.S.

Duane R. Swanson Philip N. Kluge Jordan T. Wold 115 Keller Ave N., Amery, WI 54001 (p) 715-268-7832 (t) 888-890-0787 www.bridgewhatmatters.com

FAMILY DENTISTRY

Hwy. 46 and Griffin St. Amery, Wisconsin (Near River Place Mall) Phone 715-268-8149

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

KANABEC COUNTY Sales & Service

TIMES

PIONEER PINE CITY 211

S. Keller Ave. Amery, Wis. Phone 715-268-7882

FREE PRESS MESSENGER Serving Marine-on-St. Croix, Scandia, May Township

CHECK OUT OUR SPECIALS AT www.amerymeatmarket.com M-F 8:30-6, Sat. 8-noon

Willow Ridge Healthcare 400 Deronda St. Amery 715-268-8171

Dena Cress and Darren Booth

1060 Riverplace Mall, Amery

The dentists and staff at Dental Arts have been addressing the dental needs of Amery and the surrounding area since the 1940’s. We want to thank all of our current patients for the trust and confidence they show by referring friends and family to our office. There is no higher compliment than choosing us to provide care for a new family member, friend or neighbor. Dental Arts always eagerly welcomes new patients to join our practice.

We address your dental concerns in a professional environment that is comfortable, compassionate and low pressure.

Give us a call and join our Dental Arts family.

Don’t forget to check us out on Facebook at Dental Arts-Amery Wisconsin or visit our website at www.amerydental.com.

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 2222

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

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 2222

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

Featured dates of participating businesses . . .

AMERY

215 S. Keller Ave. Amery, WI 54001 www.theameryfreepress.com Phone 715-268-8101COUNTRY Fax 715-268-5300 Email: phumpal@theameryfreepress.com

404 Wisconsin Avenue Amery, WI 54001 715-268-7177 www.amerydental.com

116 Central St., Amery WI 54001 715-268-7515

Jan. 24 - Amery Free Press THURSDAY, 33, 2222 Arts SC Feb. 7 SEPTEMBER Dental Feb. 21 - iam Investments March 7 - Bridge Investment Group April 11 - Amery Meat Market April 25 - Stone Creek Custom Interiors VOL. 131 NO. 19 www.moraminn.com $1.00

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 2222

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

May 9 - Golden Age Manor June 6 - Apple River TV & Appliance June 20 - Amery Discount Liquor July 11 - Riverbend Assisted Living July 18 - Novitzke, Gust, Sempf, Whitley & Bergmanis Law Office

Aug. 8 - Kristo Orthodontics Aug. 22 - Erspamer Law Office Sept. 5 - Slumberland Oct. 3 - Amery Hospital & Clinic Nov. 20 - Willow Ridge Healthcare Dec. 5 - North Ridge Hearing

Phone 715-268-HOME (4663) info@stonecreekcustominteriors.com

Erspamer Law Office 571 State Rd. 46 Amery 715-268-2550

Novitzke, Gust, Sempf, Whitley and Bergmanis Attorneys-at-Law

DON PAUL NOVITZKE (1937-2004) GERALD N. GUST *TIMOTHY T. SEMPF JASON W. WHITLEY *ERIK M. BERGMANIS

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

475 Golfview Lane Amery, WI 715-268-9949 Redefined Senior Living

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS www.theameryfreepress.com

AREA BOWLING SCORES Club 53 Bar & Lanes, Amery MONDAY NIGHT MEN Division 1 Tac Two ................................................. 49 Shoreview ..............................................41 Division 2 Dick’s Fresh Market ...........................60 Amery True Value ..............................50 High games: Todd Zemke 270243-203, Bob Gillis 258-221, Ken Nelson 256, Chris Wolter 222-202, Gary Nottom 210-202.

High series: Todd Zemke 716, Bob Gillis 664, Chris Wolter 608, Gary Nottom 604, Ken Nelson 557, Jim Swanson 551.

TUESDAY NIGHT MEN Division 1 Club 53 .................................................... 61 Northwest Communications ...........41 Division 2 Waterside .............................................64 Chet Johnson Drug ............................ 34 High games: Wade Prindle 232215-202, Will Schaffer 223, Bob Oulette 206, Jan Knutson 204.

High series: Wade Prindle 649, Scott Sorensen 574, Will Schaffer 570, Bob Oulette 552.

WEDNESDAY NIGHT MEN Division 1 Amery Fire Department ...............53.0

Preferred Lawn................................52.0 Division 2 Club 53 ................................................45.5 Lamperts ...........................................36.5 High games: Jerod Wollan 237, Beau Gorres 236-225-203, Denis Carteron 225, Jan Knutson 220-204, Billy Vierkandt 216, Dave Fox 216, Lee Jones 215-204, Steve Waterman 206.

High series: Beau Gorres 664, Jerod Wollan 623, Lee Jones 591, Steve Waterman 582, Dave Fox 579, Jan Knutson 568, Billy Vierkandt 556.

THURSDAY-FRIDAY NIGHT WOMEN Division 1 Club 53 ................................................63.0 Northwest Communications ......52.0 Chet’s ................................................. 44.0 Division 2 Amery Fire Dept. ............................ 65.0 Amery Hospital ..............................48.0 Bremer ................................................28.0 High games: Sherry Martin 201175, Jess Sine 174-152, Janet Martinson 172-155, Bette Elmer 159-159, Anne Wollan 159, Shelby Cockrell 151-150.

High series: Sherry Martin 498, Bette Elmer 467, Janet Martinson 459, Jess Sine 457, Shelby Cockrell 445, Cindy Hardina 433, Kelsey Monteith 426.

An Amery Free Press Subscription makes a wonderful gift that last all year long!

Contest winner is Bryan Rubendall, Amery

Congratulations!

Thank you to everyone who entered the contest!

KANABEC COUNTY

TIMES

THE ANSWERS:

Alibi Bar: offense Amery Chevrolet: quarterback Amery Express/Hometown Liquor: sidelines Amery Hospital & Clinic: receiver Birch Street Bar: hail mary Country Store/Countryside Co-op: fieldgoal Cricket’s Bar & Grill: coach PINE CITY Deer’s Bar & Grill: penalty Dick’s Fresh Market: football 7 Brothers Bar & Grill: fans Slumberland/Slumberland Clearance: runningback Super America: kicker Tac Two: exrtra point UW Wanderoos: touchdown Wolter’s Shoreview: defense

PIONEER

Which team won the opening coin toss?THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 2222 VOL. 131 NO. 19 www.moraminn.com $1.00 Atlanta Which team made the first touchdown?

Atlanta Which team made the most field goals?

New England Which team won the game? New EnglandTHURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 2222 Which player will be MVP? Tom Brady

VOL. 131 NO. 19

www.moraminn.com $1.00

Point spread: 6

FREE PRESS AMERY

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

COUNTRY

THURSDAY, SEPTEMBER 33, 2222

VOL. 131 NO. 19

www.moraminn.com $1.00

35

36 AMERY FREE PRESS

ENTERTAINMENT

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

www.theameryfreepress.com

Balsam Lutheran Church

1115 Mains Crossing Ave., Amery

Phone 715-268-9291

Welcomes Back . . .

“The Alzen Family”

Combine fast pickin’, tight-knit harmonies, and over-flowing joy, and the result is the talented Alzen Family. Hailing from Roberts, Wisconsin, this family of eight loves to merge their musical abilities with their strong faith to gladden people’s hearts with music and the love of Jesus Christ.

Saturday, Feb. 11, 7 p.m.

Please stay for bars and refreshments after concert A freewill offering will be taken to help with cost.

Also check the Out & About page for area events

WANTED: 1964 Amerian Yearbook

We carry many kinds of labels at the Amery Free Press

Contact jrcasper10@ comcast.net

Amery VFW

(at the Holiday Inn Express, St. Croix Falls)

Saturday, February 18 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Big Lake, Wisconsin All proceeds go toward stocking Big Lake, Round Lake and Church Pine Lake

BINGO

CASH PRIZES FOR PANFISH, BASS AND WALLEYE AND NORTHERN Come on out for a great time!

Adults: First Place $100, Second Place $50, Third Place $25 Kids: First Place $25, Second Place $15, Third Place $10

Progressive Jackpot

Your share is over $1,989

Bar Open 4 p.m.-? Thursdays & Fridays HAPPY HOUR 4-6 p.m.

Only $1.50 beer during Happy Hour (Reg. $2.25)

•INN SHAPE Fitness Center

FISHING CONTEST 2017

730 N. Wisconsin Ave., Amery

Every Thursday 6:30 p.m.

It’s time to get in shape!

BIG LAKE

•24 Hour access to Fitness Equipment •Community Pool access starting at 4 a.m.

“Say JEAN PIERRE sent me” for

Tickets: $12 (kids 5 and under fish free and receive a prize) Tickets can be purchased in advance or the day of the event at the Big Lake Store (715) 294-2342)

Hundreds of door prizes!

ALL PARTICIPANTS ARE ENTERED TO WIN DOOR PRIZES. Need not be present to win.

For more information or to sponsor this event call 651-485-2451

New Parents and Grandparents . . .

•1 Week Trial Membership •2 Months Free on prepaid annual membership •Waived signup fees

Offer valid on NEW MEMBERSHIPS ONLY. Offer expires April 1, 2017

2190 US Hwy. 8 St. Croix Falls 715-483-5775

Here’s a chance to show off your new pride and joy HOURS: Sun.-Thurs. 10 a.m.-Midnight Fri. & Sat. 10 a.m.-2:30 a.m.

948-7777

Bundles of Joy Babies born in 2016

5-10 p.m. Tuesday, Feb. 14

2 for $20 Pasta

includes Champagne, 2 Pasta Entrees, Salad Bar & Dessert

Baby’s Name _____________________________________

NIGHTLY SPECIALS:

Birth Date _______________________________________

*Margarita Monday: $3 Margaritas all day $1.50 Tacos 5-10 p.m. (Dine in only) *$2 Tuesday: $2 Domestic Bottles and Rail Drinks all day “Tuesday Night Pasta Special” $9.95 (includes salad bar) *Windsor and Wings Wednesday: $2 Windsor all day 50 Cent Wings 5-10 p.m. (dine in only) *Thirsty Thursday: 2 for 1’s 3-6 p.m.

Build Your Own Steak Sandwich 5-10 p.m. *Friday Fish Fry: Fish and Shrimp Specials Soup and Salad Bar featuring “7 Brothers Chowder” 5-10 p.m. *Saturday Prime Rib: 5-10 p.m.

Includes Soup and Salad Bar *Sunday: Prime Rib Sandwich served all day Daily Lunch Specials and Salad Bar Monday-Friday 11 a.m.-2 p.m.

Photo Enclosed Parent

Digital photo to be emailed

Grandparent

Parents or Grandparents name _______________________________________________ Address_________________________________________ City, State, Zip____________________________________ Daytime Phone ___________________________________

Bundles of Joy ENTRY FORM Please print Send this entry form and color photo of your baby along with $35.00 to BUNDLES OF JOY, Amery Free Press, PO Box 424, Amery, WI 54001 or drop off at the Amery Free Press Office.

Entrants should have a self-addressed, stamped envelope to have their photos returned.

Photos must be received by 4:00 p.m.

Feb. 10, 2017.

On Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2017, the Bundles of Joy - Babies 2016 full-color page will appear in the Amery Free Press.

Bundles of Joy is open to babies born between January 1, 2016 and December 31, 2016.

Entrants must furnish an original color photo no smaller than 3x5” and no larger than 5x7” OR digital photo emailed to phumpal@theameryfreepress.com.

ENTERTAINMENT

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

AMERY FREE PRESS

www.theameryfreepress.com

Happy Valentine’s Day

To: Gerri Happy Valentine’s Day With Love Ross

Happy Valentine’s Day to my wife, Neta, my sisters, Kaylene and Kristy, and to my aunt Gloria

Sera and Sephie!

Love, Nana and Papa Stangl

Happy Valentine’s Day to our wonderful grandsons!

Happy Valentine’s Day

Avah Brady

37

Love, Grandma & Grandpa Elmer

Gavin & Bentley

Love, Grandpa & Grandma

Graeme & Finn

Also, Happy Valentine’s Day to Matt & Ariel, Ryan & Rachel

Valentine’s Day Dinner Valentine’s Day is Tuesday, Feb. 14

Tuesday, Feb. 14th 4:30-7:30 p.m.

Sweetheart Special!

Buy One Menu Item and receive a Second Menu Item FREE Mention this ad to receive this Sweetheart Special all day Tuesday, February 14

St. Paul Lutheran Church 214 North St. W Deer Park

Chicken Alfredo, Spaghetti, Salad, Candy, Dessert Free Will Offering

Located next door to Chet’s in downtown Amery HOURS: Mon.-Sat. 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

Sun. 8 a.m.-7 p.m.

Valentine’s Specials

VALENTINE’S SPECIAL $100 off Individual +1 12 Month Membership Offer valid from February 13 through February 17, 2017.

Price with special discount is $550. Valid on 12 month Individual +1 membership only - no other discounts or offers may apply.

Locations Fitness Center - 220 Keller Avenue N., Amery 715-268-1008 Luck Fitness Center - 2547 ST Road 35, Luck 715-472-5225

Serving Tuesday, February 14, 11 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Chicken Cordon Bleu with Wild Rice Mix

Regular menu available

King Cut or Queen Cut Prime Rib with sauteed mix Caribbean vegetable and choice of potato

Enjoy Beer & Wine with your meal

Steak Diane 8 oz.

Sirloin with mushroom wine sauce, side of alfredo fettuccino and spinach Three cheese Chicken Rigatoni Pasta. A blend of Italian cheeses topped with a rich mix of rotini pasta, grilled chicken, bruschetta - tomatoes, fresh basil and creamy alfredo sauce

Open 7 days a week 6 a.m.-9 p.m.

Amery Family Restaurant

418 Keller Ave. S, Amery 715-268-2100 Gift Certificates Available

38 AMERY FREE PRESS

VALENTINES

www.theameryfreepress.com

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

“Join us on Beautiful Pike Lake”

Valentine’s Dinner SPECIAL MENU for Friday & Saturday, Feb. 10 & 11 and Tuesday, Feb. 14

Seafood Platter 8 oz. Filet Mignon Slow Roasted Prime Rib (King Cut) Jumbo (Tiger) Shrimp Walleye Pike Chicken Kiev & Shrimp Combo

Includes potato, soup and salad bar, plus dessert, glass champagne MAKE YOUR DINNER RESERVATIONS EARLY!

Valentine’s Day is Tuesday, Feb. 14

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

Sunday, Feb. 14th, 2016

Garibaldi’s Dinner for Two Valentine Special

Place Your Order Today by contacting the Service Counter 715-268-7513

2 Dinner Platters (except Combo Fajitas)

2 House drinks 1 Dessert $

32

plus tax

Special good Tuesday, Feb. 14, 2017 only

Beautiful Bouquets, Blooming Plants and Breathtaking Roses to choose from ORDER TODAY! Angus Farms USDA Choice Boneless

Beef Tenderloin

13.99 lb.

$

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

Lobster Tails 4 to 5 oz.

4.99 lb.

$

Angus Farms USDA Choice Boneless Beef

New York Strip Steak FAMILY PACK

7.99 lb.

$

AMERY Hwy. 46/Keller Ave.

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

Fresh Frozen Canadian Cold Water

H Co. Rd. F

River Place Mall, Amery 715-268-7513

VALENTINES

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

www.theameryfreepress.com

AMERY FREE PRESS

39

Amery Community Club Commercial Promotions committee encourages Amery businesses to “Paint The Town Red” during the month of February

Pre-order Rose Special!

Call by Friday, Feb. 10 and receive:

6 FREE Roses with purchase of 12 Roses

Valentine Weekend Hours Saturday, Feb. 11, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.

Sunday, Feb. 12, 10 a.m.-2 p.m.

Monday, Feb. 13, 9 .m.-6 p.m.

Tuesday, Feb. 14, 9 a.m.-6 p.m.

18 roses for the price of 12!

Show her how special she is!

Heart disease is the Number 1 killer of women in America. Risk factors include smoking, high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, heredity, stress and fatigue.

Grab and Go Fun Bunch arrangements starting at $7.99 Vase arrangements starting at $9.99

Talk to your doctor so that any early signs of heart disease can be addressed.

Make an appointment to stop heart disease today.

Delivery available to all surrounding areas

FREE Balloon with any walk-in purchase on Valentine’s Day We also have stuffed animals, balloons, and chocolate to include with your order

Stop by now through Feb. 12 to enter a drawing for a FREE Custom Valentine’s Day Arrangement

from the

FLORAL & GIFTS

715-268-8000 | amerymedicalcenter.org

Arrangement will be available for pick up on Valentine’s Day. Delivery available. Winner will be drawn and notified on Feb. 13th.

Bring in the coupon below, or mention this ad when you call, for FREE DELIVERY on your Valentine’s Day order, within Amery City Limits River Place Mall Amery 715-268-9000 www.stemsfromtheheart.com

Stems Heart

Be Good to Your Heart

Reg. Hours: Mon.-Fri. 9-6, Sat. 10-4

is celebrating all February! Thank you to all of the customers, donators and volunteers that makes this much needed non-profit successful!

•ANNIVERSARY SALES!!

•DRAWINGS •TREATS VOLUNTEER

Stems From the Heart coupon:

Free Delivery on Valentine’s Day within Amery City Limits $25 minimum order Available on Valentine’s Day only

Kids Clothing $1-$3

DONATE GENERAL PRICES

Adult Shirts, Shorts, Shoes, Skirts $2

207 Keller Ave. N, Amery

SHOP

Pants, Sweaters, Sweatshirts, Dresses $3

715-268-6080 wornagaininc@gmail.com

40 AMERY FREE PRESS

FEBRUARY 7, 2017

www.theameryfreepress.com

Johnson Motors of St. Croix Falls

Johnson Motor Sales Inc.

2180 US Hwy. 8 St. Croix Falls, WI 54024 Local 715-483-2000 www.jmscf.com

620 Deere Drive New Richmond, WI 54017 Local 715-246-2261 www.johnsonmotorsales.com

Sales: M-Th 8-7, Fri. 8-6, Sat. 8-5 Service: M-Fri. 8-5, Sat. 8-12

Looking for a career opportunity!

We are growing!

Stop in and meet the owner!

Locally Owned & Operated Team Since 1925!

118 Used Vehicles in stock!

427 New Vehicles in stock!

Up to $14,000 Off MSRP ‘16 Chevrolet Silverado HD LT Crew 6.0L Stk#67417 MSRP $52,730

Sale Price $38,730

Sale Price $38,355

Up to $7,000 Off MSRP ‘16 Chevrolet Malibu LT Sedan Stk#67314 MSRP $26,790

Sale Price $19,790

1. Includes financing with GM Financial Down payment assistance of $2000, on approved credit.

Please see sales for details. Offer valid through 02/28/17 and must take delivery by 02/28/17. Purchase of Stk#67417 MSRP $52730 Sale Price $38730. All rebates to dealer, while supplies last.

2. Includes financing with GM Financial down payment assistance of $2000, on approved credit. Please see sales for details. Offer valid through 02/28/17 and must take delivery by 02/28/17. Purchase of Stk#68616 MSRP $49355 Sale Price $38355. All rebates to dealer, while supplies last.

Stk#68616 MSRP $49,355

Up to $7,000 Off MSRP ‘16 Chevrolet Cruz LT Sedan Sale Price $18,335

Stk#67149 MSRP $25,335

Up to $6,500 Off MSRP ‘17 Chevrolet Equinox AWD

Up to $9,000 Off MSRP ‘16 Chevrolet Trax LT FWD

Stk#67428 MSRP $31,095

Stk#67778 MSRP $24,035

Sale Price $24,595 Disclaimers:

Up to $11,000 Off MSRP ‘17 Chevrolet Silverado LD Crew

Price $15,035

3. Includes financing with one of Johnson Motors’ preferred lenders of $1000, on approved credit.

Please see sales for details. Offer valid through 02/28/17 and must take delivery by 02/28/17. Purchase of Stk#67314 MSRP $26790 Sale Price of $19790. All rebates to dealer, while supplies last.

5. Includes financing with one of Johnson Motors’ preferred lenders of $1000, on approved credit.

Please see sales for details. Offer valid through 02/28/17 and must take delivery by 02/28/17. Purchase of Stk# 67428 MSRP $31095 Sale Price $24595 All rebates to dealer, while supplies last.

4. Includes financing with one of Johnson Motors’ preferred lenders of $1000, on approved credit.

Please see sales for details. Offer valid through 02/28/2017 and must take delivery by 02/28/17.

Purchase of Stk#67149 MSRP$25335 Sale Price of $18335. All rebates to dealer, while supplies last.

6. Includes financing with one of Johnson Motors’ preferred lenders of $1000, on approved credit.

Please see sales for details. Offer valid through 02/28/17 and must take delivery by 02/28/17. Purchase of Stk# 67778 MSRP 24035 Sale Price $15035 All rebates to dealer, while supplies last.

Johnson motors reserves the right to correct any mistakes within this ad.

Questions & Reservations 855-922-3753 OFFICIAL Lease Return Headquarters Schedule your ‘equity check’ or Lease Return today!

We Buy Used Vehicles!

Even if you don’t buy ours!

20 minute hassle-free appraisals!