Amery Free Press August 26, 2025

Golden Age Manor’s new hospice suite aims to give families comfort in final days

BY JUSTIN RUNBERG EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

With a ribbon cutting set for Sept. 4, Golden Age Manor’s newly completed hospice suite will soon open its doors, offering families a more home-like

space to spend time with loved ones during end-of-life care.

In partnership with Adoray, the project has been completed, and an open house will be held for the community to view the new addition. A ribbon-cutting ceremony is scheduled for Sept. 4, from

City to review Keller Avenue ATV, UTV ordinance after first year

BY JUSTIN RUNBERG EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

Amery officials expect to revisit the city’s new Keller Avenue ordinance next year to gauge how well UTV and ATV riders are following speed limits, safety rules and restricted hours, with adjustments possible if problems arise

2 p.m. to 4 p.m., and it is open to the public. The hospice suite will include two rooms and will be used for endof-life care. It is designed to feel more

Klevgard closes PaperWorx chapter, prepares new venture in Amery

BY JUSTIN RUNBERG EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

After 23 years of running PaperWorx, Sally Klevgard is stepping into retirement—but not for long. The longtime Amery business owner is already planning to open Fabulous Finds by Sally, an

upscale consignment shop that she hopes will add another draw to Keller Avenue and continue her decades-long role in shaping the community’s business life

Instead of seeing PaperWorx in the building, people will now find Forest Lake Printing. They will be located in the

central space of the building, which will serve as a satellite office for their upcoming business in Amery. In the meantime, Klevgard has been assisting with the transition before stepping away. Additionally, Klevgard’s employee

SEE KLEVGARD, PAGE 2

The Amery City Council gave the green light for UTV and ATV riders to drive down Keller Ave. Riders are permitted to operate these vehicles on the road as long as they do not exceed 35 miles per hour. State law requires staying within this speed limit, but the city has added extra safety measures to ensure that only those with a driver’s license operate on Keller Avenue. According to Wisconsin law, anyone born after 1988 operating a UTV or ATV must be certified by the Wisconsin DNR to use the trails. While a driver’s license is necessary to operate on Keller, it is not required on the trails if the driver is properly certified.

The Public Safety Committee also reviewed the new ordinance

SEE ORDINANCE, PAGE 2

RUNBERG | AMERY FREE PRESS

Golden Age Manor adds onto their old building again with end-of-life hospice suites.

from PaperWorx but has another business venture to keep her busy in the meantime.

GOLDEN AGE: Adoray partnership

home-like so families can stay together during an important time.

“One side has a hospital bed, all of the patient things that they might need, and then attached is a family suite,” Dana Reese, Administrator at Golden Age Manor, said. “So there's going to be a couch and refreshments, a little fridge, a TV, everything that that family can be comfortable staying for those long hours when they're at the bedside, including a pullout area where someone can sleep in the room to be with their loved one.”

Golden Age Manor has been in operation since 1959. Over the years, improvements have been made to better serve the community. The regular patient rooms are smaller than the suites, which makes it hard for families to spend quality time with their loved ones. Reese explained that in the past, because the regular rooms were so small, families had to take turns going in and out. This is especially difficult for those with larger families. The new suites will help solve that problem.

Golden Age Manor also doesn’t have many private rooms, but the suites will help with that. Nursing homes have been adding hospice rooms and suites for some time. Golden Age Manor considered creating a space like this and checked their available options. They found some space in the North Wing near their CNA training area, which they felt would be a good location for those who need it.

Not only will family be there for their loved ones, but staff will also be ready to help with anything they might need. Staff will be assigned to care for the patient and will be available at all times of the day to assist when necessary.

Serious discussions about turning this into a reality began about a year ago. Golden Age Manor asked themselves how they could make it happen and what it might look like. After further planning, the suite started to take shape over the last six months with Adoray’s help. Golden Age reached out to Adoray, with whom they have a good relationship, and explained their plan. Adoray was excited to help and began assisting. Golden Age has several hospice contracts, with Adoray being one of them. People who can use the space don’t need to be on hospice or have any specific payer source. As long as the individual meets the endof-life criteria, they are welcome to use the suite.

Golden Age Manor is always looking for ways to expand their services, training, and education because of how important the facility is to the community.

“It's important, because we are just doing what we do, taking care of people through a lot of stages of life and disease and things that happen, it's just important to have another option for that level of care and being able to have their family and their friends,” Reese said.

Fatality in deer – ATV crash

A man from rural Balsam Lake died in an ATV crash this week, sparking renewed calls for rider safety in Polk County, where ATV and UTV use keeps increasing.

John Smith, 70, died Tuesday afternoon after his ATV hit a deer on 150th Avenue east of County Highway H in the town of Apple River, the Polk County Sheriff’s Office said. Smith, who was not wearing a helmet, was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and the sheriff’s office

are investigating the crash. Apple River Fire, Northwestern Municipal EMS, the DNR and the Polk County Medical Examiner also assisted.

Authorities advise riders to stay alert for wildlife and always wear helmets. Safety officials emphasize that as more people in the Amery area and throughout Polk County use ATVs for recreation and travel, collisions with deer and other hazards continue to be a concern.

ORDINANCE: Parking to be addressed

and made additional recommendations. Similar to driving a standard vehicle, one requirement is that riders must have proof of liability insurance and vehicle registration. There will also be designated hours for riding down Keller. Operations will be limited to one hour before sunset and one hour after sunrise. Not only must drivers and riders follow the rules of the road, but they also must use turn signals or hand signals when turning. Riders and drivers under 18 will be required to wear their seatbelts in accordance with state law.

The Public Safety Committee also wanted the ordinance reviewed after a year to assess if things are going well or if adjustments are needed. Before the vote, the council noted a couple of concerns. Alderperson Mike Manor raised a concern about parking on Keller. City Administrator Alex Mansfield explained that the ordinance states operators are not allowed to drive

was able to transfer to the new company, allowing them to keep their job and work for PaperWorx for the past seven years. During that time, Klevgard had the opportunity to work with several local businesses.

“I’ve worked for almost everybody in town, businesses and for just residents, and also in the area,” Klevgard said. “We've done the Amery event guide for the last ten years. We developed and printed that. And then we've also done calendars, school calendars, school newsletters, hospital newsletters.”

She also helped entities with their graphic design, supporting the farmers market, individuals, and the wider community. Klevgard has lived and worked in Amery for the past 35 years. During that time, she learned from others and expanded her multiple businesses. Her journey started at a local printing shop, where she spent 11 years gaining experience. After more than a decade, she started her own business with PaperWorx. Even while busy managing her businesses, she found time to give back to the community. She served as community club president and was one of the original people to help get Music on the River started. She has also supported the Fall Festival.

Although you may not see Klevgard working at PaperWorx, she will still be busy with Mustang Sally’s and another business venture. It will be called

in ditches, public parks, or on the shoulder of the road. Drivers would need to find acceptable parking within the city.  Another concern raised was the lack of seatbelts on ATVs and the issue with them on Keller. However, a similar point was made about motorcycle riders, but it was agreed that if they have a seatbelt, people need to wear it. Previously, discussions included putting up signs throughout the city. These would display routes for riders to safely navigate the city while following the law. Some funds are tentatively planned for the 2026 capital budget for signage.  Alderperson Sharon Marks also suggested that the city approve the plan for the trailheads around town. There is also an upcoming event for a cause that will bring a few hundred UTV drivers through town.

Some funds are tentatively planned for the 2026 capital budget for signage.

KLEVGARD: Consignment store coming

Fabulous Finds by Sally, an upscale consignment shop. Some items she has in mind for her Fabulous Finds include furniture, jewelry, and artwork, to name a few.

The idea came to her about a year ago after she sold her house. She began downsizing, moving some belongings to storage and others to her new living space. After renovating her area in Mustang Sally’s, she had less room and added more items to storage. The vacant space in the building with Forest Lake Printing moving in created another opportunity. After talking with a few friends, she received positive feedback.

“The store is going to be a very fun store for visitors, locals, and a great place to consign your items, your beautiful items that is hard to sell on marketplace,” Klevgard said. “My option was marketplace and piece it out and all the drama that goes along with marketplace, and we've all experienced that, or to have a lovely space that people come in and browse and then they can take home what they want.”

Klevgard also appreciates the business community on Keller. With the other shops on Main Street and the traffic they attract, she believed it would create another special spot for visitors in Amery. Although she doesn’t have a definite date for her new venture’s opening, it will be soon. Until then, she will enjoy her retirement until the next chapter begins.

OUT ABOUT&

2025 Fall Festival Medallion hunt is underway

It’s

that time of year again!

The 76th Fall Festival Medallion has been hidden in a public place within the city limits of Amery, clues will be given each week on Tuesday, until it is found. Seekers will

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27

Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous will meet at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 217 Deronda Street in Amery on Wednesday mornings at 10 a.m.

THURSDAY, AUGUST 28

Amery Al Anon Group

The Amery Al Anon Family Group will meet Thursdays at 7 p.m. at First Lutheran Church, 240 W Elm Street, Amery. Call 715-554-3344 for info.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous will meet at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 217 Deronda Street, Amery on Thursday evenings at 7 p.m.

FRIDAY, AUGUST 29

Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous will meet at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 217 Deronda Street, Amery on Friday evenings at 7 p.m.

SATURDAY, AUGUST 30

Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous will meet at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 217 Deronda Street, Amery on Saturday mornings at 10 a.m.

Amery Area Historical Society Museum Open

The Amery Area Historical Society will be open every Saturday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., which includes the museum and the FamilySearch genealogy research center. The Historical Society is located at 109

not have to break anything to find it. The person that finds the medallion should text 651-235-0515 with of photo of themselves with the medallion at the location where it was found to receive $50 in Amery scrip money. Good luck and remember to respect property while hunting!

CLUE # 2

If you have been looking north, you have been in the wrong, go the other way before I am gone.

Club 53 Comedy Hour!

Join Club 53 on Thursday, August 28th, starting at 6:30 for a night of laughs with Rio Hillman. Hillman was born in Chicago but raised in Wisconsin, brining hilarious charm with punchline after punchline. The event is 21+.

E. Maple St., Amery. For information, contact ameryhistory@gmail. com.

MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 1

Scout Pack/Troop/Crew 9146 Meeting

Join Scout Pack/ Troop/Crew 9146 at their meetings on Mondays from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at the Amery Congregational Church UCC, 201 Harriman Ave. N, Amery. Open to all children from kindergarten to 17 years old and their families. Please feel free to come to a meeting to visit us out before you sign up.

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 2

GriefShare

A grief support group for people grieving the death of a loved one will be held on Tuesdays from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

starting September 2 through November 25. There will be weekly video with insights from respected experts and relatable personal stories, followed by a time of sharing and support. GriefShare sessions will be held at the St. Joseph Catholic Church, 1050 Keller Ave. N, Amery. You are welcome to join at any time during the session. For more information or to register, call the St. Joseph office at 715-268-7717 or visit griefshare.org.

Amery Woman’s Club

The Amery Woman’s Club will meet on Tuesday, September 2, at the Lake Wapogasset Bible Camp. Social time is a 5 p.m., and a ham dinner will be served at 6 p.m. Wear red shirts for the annual picture. Member dues are due. The theme is about ending domestic abuse and sexual violence. In that regard, please bring items for the Community Referral Agency located in Milltown. A list is available from Gloria at 715-268-4095.

Alcoholics Anonymous

Alcoholics Anonymous will meet at Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church, 507 W Main St, Balsam Lake on Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m. and at the Clear Lake Community Center, 560 5th Street, at 7 p.m.

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 3

Alcoholics Anonymous Alcoholics Anonymous will meet at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church, 217 Deronda Street in Amery on Wednesday mornings at 10 a.m.

Alzheimer’s Family Support Group

First Wednesday of each month at 10 a.m. at the Amery Community Center, 608 Harriman Ave S. Call 715-268-6605 for more information. Memory Café

The Amery Community Center, in conjunction with ADRC, is hosting a Memory Café the first Wednesday of every month at the Community Center, 608 Harriman Ave. S, Amery, from 12:30 to 2 p.m. This free group is for caregivers and loved ones with dementia to attend together and enjoy activities, snacks, refreshments, and companionship. To register, contact Makenzie Gustafson at 877-4852372.

Friends of the Amery Area Public Library SEPT. BOOK SALE Thu, Sept. 4, 3-5 pm Sat, Sept. 6, 9-Noon

Large selection of fiction, all genres AMERY AREA PUBLIC LIBRARY (104

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Thoughts from Dreamville

The day that schoolchildren have been dreading and parents have been anxiously awaiting — the first day of school — is nearly upon us. The big Labor Day weekend is this weekend. Time to transition back to a regimented schedule.

But there are the last few days to be savored, like the final meal of a condemned man before they are executed. I can recall the panic I felt when I was a child and this time of year rolled around, along with the adrenaline rush to pack in as much swimming, bicycling, and games of kick the can with the neighborhood kids before zero day.

From the Publisher’s Desk

Tom Stangl

Over the past five years, I have developed a deep appreciation for the music of Tom Petty, both with and without the Heartbreakers. I’ve compiled a nearly eight-hour playlist of Petty songs that I listen to while I walk or when I have time to listen in the background at work. I’ve always been someone who finds listening to music helpful when I am focusing on something else.

This October will mark the eighth anniversary of Petty’s death at the far too young age of 66. I didn’t really start listening to his work seriously until I was recovering from a heart procedure and walking. Listening to songs with earbuds in brings another level of awareness because you can hear the tiny details you miss in casual listening. Some songs use the stereo effect, starting on the left and answering on the right side, which can only be appreciated with earbuds or headphones.

Petty was born in 1950, which makes him roughly the same age as my oldest sister. In several of Petty’s songs, he reflects on his childhood and teenage years. One of the songs I’ve come to love is called “Dreamville,” where he describes the time and place where he grew up.

Petty describes going to the local swimming pool with his mother: “The water was cold/My lips were blue/There was rock and roll/Across the dial/When I think of her/ It makes me smile.”

The chorus of the song describes the fondness he still carries for this place and time: “Like it was Dreamville/Where I was born/Light years from here/And the air smelled good/In Dreamville/Like it was Dreamville/A long time ago/Light years from here/And the trees were green/In Dreamville.”

I believe we all carry our own personal “Dreamville” inside our hearts. It’s the most ideal version of that place and time our hearts can imagine. I believe it’s there to comfort us during times of stress, chaos, and trouble.

I can still remember the feeling of the pool’s cool water on a hot July day in my hometown. It was on top of a hill about two miles from where I lived. We usually biked to the pool, either parking our bikes at the bottom of the hill or walking them up to the top.

I remember the sound and feel of the water when I went off the low and high diving boards. The burning sensation in my nose from the chlorine as I touched the bottom of the deep end before pushing off toward the surface.

If I had some money, I bought a Mr. Freeze from the concession stand.

They are good memories.

As the routine of the world closes in next week, visit your “Dreamville.”

As always, I welcome your comments. You can reach me by email at tstangl@theameryfreepress.com, by telephone at 715-268-8101, or by writing to P.O. Box 424, Amery, WI, 54001.

The Devil’s Lettuce, Mary Jane, Dope:

Should Marijuana be legalized in WI?

Many might not like this topic, but I’m surprised Wisconsin hasn’t adopted marijuana legalization yet. Before I left the news station down south in 2018, Wisconsin held its first advisory referendum on the issue. It aimed to see if people supported legalizing it for recreational and medical purposes. From what I’ve seen, another referendum on the same issue took place again in 2022.

From the Editor’s Desk

Justin Runberg

Statistics from the ACLU reveal that 63% of registered voters support recreational use, while 86% support medical use. Similarly, roughly 77% of people aged 18 to 44 support recreational use. Support declines noticeably for ages 45 and older, with 63% supporting those aged 45 to 59 and 49% supporting those 60 and up. Support for medical use remains strong across all age groups.

I wanted to highlight these stats for a few reasons. Before I left Wisconsin for the West, I thought

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that after the first referendum and seeing how popular it was, it would have passed before I got back. When I returned home, I was surprised to learn that all the states bordering Wisconsin have legalized the devil’s lettuce, while Wisconsin hasn’t. Here’s another kicker: Wisconsin residents spent about $121 million in 2022 in Illinois, which resulted in $36 million in taxes. That’s $36 million they could have kept in the state. And that is only one of the three states’ revenue.

However you feel about it, that’s your choice. My experience out west shaped my view, along with some people I knew in college, about the questionable plant. From my perspective, it isn’t a big deal. Most often, folks who smoked it out west would sit and watch movies or tear through the snack aisle. I’d meet hikers who would smoke and then head on their way. With alcohol, it’s more of a gamble on how someone will act under its influence.

Wisconsin is missing out on a chance to generate significant tax revenue, stay current with neighboring states, and provide medical benefits for those who oppose big pharma.

LETTER GUIDELINES

name, address, and phone number (address and phone number will not be printed). Anonymous letters will not be published. Only letters originating from writers who live, have lived or work in the Amery Free Press circulation area or have some other relevance to the community area will be published.

The Amery Free Press accepts election letters endorsing or advocating for or against a ballot measure, political party or candidate as a paid advertising announcement. The fee will be a $25 minimum for

Here’s the issue I see with this whole situation. It’s obvious that most people in the state want both options. It’s also clear to border towns, whether in Illinois, Michigan, or Minnesota, that people are crossing to buy marijuana and bringing it back for personal use. Kenosha has decriminalized it because of how often people cross the border.

Why even ask the question if you’re not going to follow through? Why bother spending time on it if it was just going to be pushed aside? The two entities I blame for this are state politician Robin Vos and the Tavern League.

For the Tavern League, it makes sense why they would oppose it. They are all about alcohol. Wisconsin counties, on average, drink more than nearly every other state in America, except North Dakota, and they are the second-highest. The drunk driving laws are also tougher elsewhere. Why is it that I see people with their 10th OWI ticket and they’re not in jail? Oh, I know why — we are in Wisconsin.

Robin Vos also disgusts me. When the people have spoken on what

SEE EDITOR, PAGE 5

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For questions about policies on letters contact the editor at 715-268-8101 x103.

County board maintains library funding

BY RAYMOND T. RIVARD RAY@SENTINELMEDIA.NET

Concerns about a possible decrease in funding for Polk County libraries were relieved this week when the county board approved the funding request at 95%, which is the same rate the county has approved in recent years.

Before the board discussion at the Aug. 19 meeting, several individuals offered comments about library funding during the public comment period. All who spoke at this meeting recommended that the county board continue to fund the library at the 95% rate that had been usual in recent years.

The individuals who provided public comments described their interactions with libraries and the positive impact libraries have had on their lives and the experiences of family members affected by library services.

Following public comments, the county board entered a Committee of the Whole to discuss three funding resolutions, including the library.

County board supervisors had little to say about it came to approving the library funding rates.

Only Supervisor Kim O’Connell raised a question about the recommendation for passage of the library funding at the 95% rate by the General Government Committee.

“It says ‘recommended by the general government.’ [General Government] didn’t see anything wrong with it or anything? What was the vote?,” O’Connell asked.

When he was told by County Administrator Emil “Moe” Norby that the vote of the General Government Committee was unanimous, O’Connell asked, “And it was unanimous? OK.”

County Board Chairman Jay Luke then added, “And we listened to a lot of comments.”

After a brief pause, the chairman asked, “Anything else on the library?”

When there were no other comments, Luke seemed somewhat surprised, adding, “OK. Very good.”

The committee then moved on to the next resolution.

CONCERNS

The questioning of funding processes and rates arose over the past months as the renewal of the five-year library plan was brought before the county library committee for approval.

While questions about language related to municipalities in another county but receiving Polk County funding (Turtle Lake) were addressed, the focus was on the rate.

Over the past few months, Library Committee Chairperson Fran Duncanson took the opportunity to define and explain the mechanisms of funding.

But it was the tone that raised a flag of concern for Duncanson, as well as many others. The fear the full county board would reduce the funding rate was palpable – something that Duncanson said in an interview that could cause significant alterations in services.

She publicly outlined the funding through a letter to the editor published a couple of weeks ago in the Amery Free Press - highlighting the many services libraries provide to the municipalities where located, as well as surrounding municipalities.

In that letter, Duncanson referenced state law, writing: “In Wisconsin, Statute 43.12 requires counties to reimburse public

libraries for serving residents who live in towns and villages that do not operate their own library at a minimum rate of 70%.”

While some area counties fund libraries at lower rates than the 95% (Barron 79%, and Burnett 75%), others fund them at 100% (Dunn and St. Croix).

Duncanson wrote, “Known as Act 150, this system ensures equitable access to library services for rural residents by requiring counties to levy taxes on those municipalities to fund the libraries their residents use.”

Duncanson also noted that the county acts only as a “passthrough” tax manager.

“Importantly, this is not a burden on county budgets,” Duncanson wrote. “The county simply acts as a pass-through: it levies the required amount on towns and villages, collects it, and forwards it to the libraries. The funds are not discretionary, cannot be used for other purposes, and do not affect the county’s own levy limits. No one ‘makes money’ off Act 150—it’s a fair and balanced system.”

That same message, along with how deeply libraries impact individuals, was reflected in public comments at the committee and full county board levels, as well as in several published letters to the editor.

Duncanson concluded her letter, saying, “Of the 14,737 users of the 11 libraries in Polk County 9,188 are non-residents and 5,549 are residents of the City or Village where the library is located … If we want thriving, modern libraries that serve everyone - including rural residents - we must support this system fully and consistently.”

The county board did just that.

Health officials monitor possible measles exposure in Roberts and Beloit

BY RAYMOND T. RIVARD RAY@SENTINELMEDIA.NET

With Wisconsin measles cases rising to 14 this month, health officials are urging residents to check their vaccination status after a traveler may have exposed people at stops in Wisconsin health officials are investigating potential measles exposures at travel centers in Roberts and Beloit after an out-of-state traveler visited both locations earlier this month.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services, working with St. Croix County and Rock County public health departments, is notifying people who may have been exposed on Aug. 4 at:

Flying J Travel Center #470, 1191 70th Ave., Roberts, between 7:15 and 10 a.m.

Pilot Travel Center #289, 3001 Milwaukee Road, Beloit, between 11:45 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.

These exposures are not connected to previously confirmed cases in the state. As of Aug. 22, Wisconsin has reported 14 confirmed measles cases this year, including nine in Oconto County earlier this month.

St. Croix County Public Health Administrator Elle Klasen said the department is conducting a “close contact” investigation with people known to have been at the Roberts location. “We follow the measles guidelines from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services,” she said.

The DHS urged everyone at the listed sites to verify they received the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. Immunization records can be

SEE MEASLES, PAGE 10

LETTER TO THE EDITOR

SAVE Act is a smoke screen

Contrary to Mr. Guanella's letter of last week regarding the SAVE ACT. A "Real ID" is not considered documentary proof of citizenship. A driver's license, social security card, student ID, military ID, tribal ID are also not considered proof of citizenship. None of these would be valid. Some border states however offer an EDL (Enhanced Driver's License) allowing you to enter the United States from Mexico,Canada or the Caribbean by land or sea but not valid for international air travel. These are proof of citizenship. Other than that the only valid proof would be a birth certificate or a passport. How many of you have your birth certificate or would even know how to get it? How many of you have a passport? Chances are you may be one of the 146 million Americans who do not possess one. Are you a married woman who took your husband’s last name? Good luck with trying to register to vote.

Once again-under the guise of "voter fraud"- the Republicans have come up with a plan to make it harder for people to vote. It is a fact that a large voter turnout generally benefits the Democrat party. Hmmmm.

I suggest you Google the "SAVE ACT". It's chalked full of voter suppression tidbits. This is the plan of the Republican Party-If they can't win the American people over with their policies then force it on them with their authority. Nowhere is this more evident than in the great state of Texas. Governor Abbott (coached by the convicted felon who resides in the White House) have a plan to gerrymander districts as to guarantee a Republican victory. In a democracy the people elect their representatives, the politicians do not pick their voters.

In my opinion the Democrats are afraid of lowering themselves to the level of the Republicans, although Governor Newsom appears to be taking a different approach.

I believe it was Michelle Obama that said "when they go low, we go high" Generally I espouse to this belief but if you have a boogie man in the basement you've got to open that cellar door, go down to his level, look him in the eye and kick him out of the house. Frankly... he doesn't belong in the Senate either.

John Salwei Amery

EDITOR: All bordering states have OKed sales

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 4

they want to see, through votes and representation, and you still shoot it down or make it go away, it shows poor practice. Elected officials should always do what is best for their constituents, especially if there is proof that contradicts personal beliefs, like his own. To do the opposite when the proof is clear makes me think he is grossly incompetent and not for the people but for himself. Regardless of what the issue is being voted on.

Whatever stance you take on the issue, I see it as an opportunity to act, or Wisconsin will keep losing money to neighboring states.

Feel free to reach out at any time. I always welcome your thoughts and opinions. You can reach me at 715-268-8101, or send me an email at editor@ theameryfreepress.com.

110 Years Ago

August 26, 1915

Notice

Notice is hereby given to all school patrons of Joint District No. 5, village of Amery, and town of Lincoln, that all children afflicted with whooping cough or any other contagious or infectious disease, will be prohibited from attending the public schools until they present a certificate from their regular attending physician to the effect that they are entirely free from all contagious or infectious disease.

All children coming from homes where whooping cough or any other contagious or infectious disease exists, will be prohibited from attending any of the public schools until the head of such home presents a written certificate from the regular attending physician, stating that such home and all the members thereof are entirely free from whooping cough and all other contagious or infectious diseases. All physicians’ certificates must be presented to the supervising principal of schools.

105 Years Ago

August 26, 1920

Escaped Convict Captured

Yesterday’s News

Diane Stangl

John Manson who was sentenced to serve six months in the county jail for the burglarizing of Frank Brant’s store at Joel two weeks ago, escaped from custody last week Wednesday morning but was caught at Turtle Lake and turned over to sheriff Mattson Thursday and again locked up. It is a cinch that his liberties will be few and far between the balance of his term.

Ball Game a Walkaway

The ball game here Sunday between Almena and Amery was a farce from start to finish. The visitors’ pitcher failed to arrive and the locals pounded the ball all over the lot and nearly ran themselves to death. The final score was 19 to 3 with Almena bringing up the rear.

95 Years Ago

August 28, 1930

Plans To Merge Amery Banks Underway

The Free Press has been informed that preliminary work preceding the consummation of one of the largest financial projects ever organized in this section of the state has been under way for many weeks –that of proposed merging of the Union State Bank and F. & M. State Banks of this city into one mammoth financial institution with total resources of over one and one half million dollars.

Amery Street Fair

The photo above is of the Amery Street Fair that was held in Amery sometime in September 1912. The street fairs were for the most part livestock auctions. The American Legion was in charge of the amusements, entertainment and refreshments during the two or three day event.

We are unable at this time to give official details, but have been unofficially informed that J. G. Burman will be president and Otto Bremer, a St. Paul financier, will be identified with the institution.

Amateur Crackmen Make a Clean Getaway with Loot

The clothing store of A. Feit & Sons was entered through a rear basement door Sunday night between ten o’clock and midnight and merchandise stolen amounting to about $500.

The loss was at first believed to be larger but after a careful check the amount was determined at the above amount. Peter Wike, clerk, had been in the store at ten o’clock and again at about twelve o’clock when he discovered the robbery.

The hinges were unscrewed from the basement door and entrance made in this manner.

The tire tracks of a small car or truck were found in the rear and it is believed that it was used to haul away the plunder.

All indications point to the work of an amateur as the goods taken were apparently picked promiscuously from the stock instead of loading up a much larger amount of high grade suits, etc. from the large stock, and had this been done the amount would have run into thousands of dollars.

No clue has been found aside from the tire tracks in the alley. The loss is covered by insurance.

80 Years Ago

August 16, 1945

Jorgenson Boy Burned Badly as Gas Explodes Larry Jorgenson, 7 yearold-son of Mr. and Mrs. Ray Jorgenson of Wanderoos, was severely burned about the face, hands and eyes as the result of a gasoline explosion.

It seems that he, with some of his companions, was playing by the gasoline storage tanks in front of the Wanderoos cheese factory, which is operated by his father. Having found a match, Larry decided to look into one of the tanks with it, thereby causing an explosion.

He was immediately taken to the Amery Hospital for treatment and is recovering satisfactorily.

Douglas Olson Missing on “Bonefish” Sub Motor Machinist Mate 2nd Class Douglas Olson, son of Mr. and Mrs. Herman Olson of Amery, is reported as missing following word received by his parents from the War Department recently.

He was a member of the crew of the submarine “Bone Fish”, which has been reported overdue from patrol and presumed lost. It has been three months since they have heard from him.

August

23, 1945

Gun-Toting Melodrama Enacted Thursday evening of last week found a melodrama worthy of something out of Hollywood being enacted in Amery.

For reasons of personal sanity, the identity of all individuals is being withheld, but here’s the story.

The mother of a young man in town was threatened by a youth brandishing a revolver and muttering statements that he was “going to get her son for going with his girlfriend.”

As luck would have it, the son was not home at the time and didn’t come home until after the youth had left.

The identity of the gun-totter is not at present known although the sheriff is investigating the case.

However, the real humor of the situation is that the man threatened hasn’t been keeping company with any lady friend and can’t imagine who the gun-totter was referring to.

Employed

on Atomic Bomb

Two daughters of Mr. and Mrs. Alfred Wenger, who reside in East Amery and formerly lived on a farm southeast of Deer Park, were employed at a Berkley, Calif., laboratory that helped develop the atomic bomb.

They are Mrs. H. P. Scott and Ruth Wenger who worked at the highly secretive project for the past several years. Al-

70 Years Ago

August 25, 1955

Brookview Motel Under New Owners

Mr. and Mrs. Hubert A. Metzger of Minneapolis are now operating the Brookview Motel in Amery.

Owners in Amery the fore part of August, Mr. and Mrs. Metzger have completed arrangements and have purchased the property from Bill Schoenhals and Jerry Widdes, builders of the structure.

In carrying out this theme, they have already started various projects to improve the appearance and function of the 19-unit edifice.

Loses Clothes But Not Wallet

though working on the atomic bomb for that length of time, they had no knowledge just what they were doing in the line of completed work.

Following the first bombing of Japan with the atomic bomb, they were informed of their part in the project and congratulated by Robert Patterson, under-secretary of war, for the part they played.

Mr. and Mrs. Wenger also have a famous son, Albert Wenger, who has been featured many times in the newspapers for his accomplishments with artificial limbs, which he has worn since he froze all his limbs 8 years ago. He is employed by the Trautment Artificial Limb Co., and also makes speaking engagements with his employer, Ray Trautment. He drives a car, dances and is employed as a machinist.

75 Years Ago

August 24, 1950

Frost Reported in Lowlands in Vicinity

Last Sunday morning at 6 a.m. found the temperature receding to a record low for this time of year when it stopped just short of the freezing mark at 35 degrees, according to the government observer, Ira Lindgren.

This was a sharp contrast to the high for the year record on Wednesday, Aug. 16 when the mercury soared to the figure of 96 degrees above zero. Tuesday also found a high registered when the temperature his 95 degrees.

But the cold created more news than the heat in this particular instance, for it found several low-lying fields touched by frost. Several low fields in the Clayton area were reported frosted to such a degree that it was necessary to start cutting the corn on them.

On the brighter side of the ledger for the week, a nice rainfall soaked this area Wednesday to bring some 2.13 inches of much needed moisture. This was the first rainfall in August with the countryside in a mighty dry state. The normal for August is 3.04 inches of rainfall.

Take it from Roland Marshall, it pays to tuck you billfold under your pillow at night…that is if you are sleeping in a “foreign land.

Showing cattle and sheep at the Tri-County fair, Superior, last week, he found the wisdom of his ways when an irate carnival worker ransacked the sleeping quarters of himself and three companions.

All told, he lost his show uniform, pants, overalls, two shirts, under clothes and $1.75 in change. His companions lost all their clothes along with their billfolds containing $16 and $20.

But all was not in vain. Exhibitor Marshall took home first in ram, ewe, and sheep flock; first in yearling heifer, bull and third in herd of cattle.

65 Years Ago

August 25, 1960

Pulls Knife in Holdup Try

An arrest by Polk Traffic Officer Jim Brown last Sunday evening brought to justice a 15-year-old Minnesota youth and a wanderer, after they had threatened Mrs. Gehrman, wife of the owner of Art’s Shady Rest Cabins and Filling Station, Turtle Lake.

According to Harry Jensen, Barron County Sheriff, the two had stopped at the filling station to get gas and after the tank was filled, the older man, William Trotter, last address somewhere in California, grabbed the woman.

He then pulled a knife and said, “This is a stickup.” according to Jensen. Mrs. Gehrman freed herself from the man and ran outside with the pair leaving.

Sheriff Jensen stated that the older man was intoxicated at the time of the incident.

About 10:30 p.m., Brown picked up the youth as he was returning to his home in the twin cities via highway 8. He told authorities that he had dropped the man off in Barron earlier in the evening.

With a description of the man given by the youth, the Barron sheriff’s office apprehended him in Barron about 1 a.m. Trotter is presently being held in the Barron county jail at Barron.

AMERY CONGREGATIONAL

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

Sunday, August 31: 10 am Worship; Church Potluck, Noisy KettleSalvation Army.

Monday, September 1: 6:30 pm Boy Scouts. Tuesday, September 2: 10 am Adult Studies.

AMERY FREE LUTHERAN

1 mile west of golf course on CTH F, Alan Arneson, Pastor, 715-268-9218, www.ameryflc.org

Sundays: 9:30 am Worship.

APPLE RIVER COMMUNITY

942 US Hwy. 8, Amery, Justin Hosking, Pastor, 715-268-2176, www.appleriverchurch.org

Wednesday, August 27: 10 am Men’s Bible Study. Sunday, August 31: 9:30 am Adult Sunday School, Children’s Sunday School, Women’s Sunday School; 10:30 am Worship Service.

BALSAM LUTHERAN

1115 Mains Crossing, Amery, Laurie Kenyon Woods, Pastor, 715-2689291, www.balsamlutheranchurch.org

Sundays: 8:45 am Youth Ed.; 9:30 am Fellowship; 10:15 am Worship. Wednesdays: 10:30 am Adult Bible Study.

BETHANY LUTHERAN CHURCH

415 Bridge Avenue, Star Prairie, 715-248-3730, blcsp.org

Sundays: 9 am Worship, Sunday School.

Tuesdays: 9:30 am Women’s Bible Study. 1st and 3rd Saturdays: 8 am Men’s Bible Study

CHURCH OF CHRIST – NEW RICHMOND 1491 Co Rd A, New Richmond, 715-600-1072, cocnr.com, Michael Hunt, Minister

Sundays: 9:30 am Adult and Youth Bible Study; 10:30 am and 6 pm Worship.

Wednesdays: 10 am Open Forum Bible Study; 6:30 pm Bible Study.

CLEAR LAKE SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTIST

76 20th Ave., Clear Lake, Scott Manly, Pastor, 715-566-4349; Head Elder Norman Britain, 715-263-2457, Church 715-263-3034, clearlakewi.adventistchurch.org

Saturdays: 9:30 am Sabbath School (All Ages); 11 am Worship.

CLEAR LAKE UNITED METHODIST

420 4th Ave., Clear Lake, Hakki Min, Pastor, 715-263-2700, www.willowriverparish.org

Sundays: 11 am Worship.

DEER PARK UNITED METHODIST

221 2nd St. W., Deer Park, Hakki Min, Pastor, 715-263-2700, www.willowriverparish.org Sundays: 9:45 am Worship.

DERONDA LUTHERAN

1239 65th Ave., Amery, 715-268-9577, Loren Teig, Synodically Authorized Minister, www.nuicparish.org

Sunday, August 31: 8 am Radio Broadcast on WPCA 93.1 FM; 9:30 am NUIC Combined Worship at Trinity.

EAST BALSAM BAPTIST

1816 108th St./CTH I, Balsam Lake, Jonathon Enger, Pastor, 715857-5411, www.eastbalsam.org

Sundays: 9 am In-Person Worship or Livestreaming on Website.

EAST IMMANUEL LUTHERAN

207 120th Street, Amery, 715-268-2143, Hillary Toulson, Pastor, www.eastimmanuel-lutheran.org

Sundays: 9:30 All Ages Learning; 10:30 am Worship. Tuesdays: 9 am Quilting.

EAST LINCOLN ALLIANCE

735 70th Ave., Amery, Eric Danielson, Lead Pastor; Kent Tollakson, Youth Director; Randy Schussman, Pastoral Care Pastor, 715-2682350, www.eastlincolnalliance.com

Sundays: 8:45-9:45 am Discipleship Hour; 10 am Worship Service, Discovery Land

Wednesdays: 6 pm Student Ministries (during school year)

EL SALEM CHRISTIAN CENTER

1751 100th Ave., Dresser, Pastor Steven and Debra Mayer, 715-749-6002, www.escc.church Sundays: 10 am and 6 pm Services. Wednesdays: 7 pm Fellowship Bible Study.

ELIM LUTHERAN

1277 60th St., Range, Laurie Kenyon Woods, Pastor Sundays: 8:30 am Worship.

FAITH FAMILY (UNITED METHODIST)

2692 154th Ave., Emerald, Hakki Min, Pastor, 715-263-2700, www.willowriverparish.org

Sundays: 8:30 am Worship.

FAITH LUTHERAN (ELCA)

301 1st Ave. E., Balsam Lake, Neal Weltzin, Pastor, 715-485-3800, www.faithlutheranbl.com

FAITH LUTHERAN (ELCA)

134 Prentice St. S, Clayton, Margaret Grant, Pastor, 715-948-2867, www.cllutheran.org

FIRST LUTHERAN

240 Elm St., Amery, Tim Bjorge, Pastor, 715-268-7135, www.flcamery.org

Please see our Facebook page “First Lutheran Church of Amery, WI or our website for weekly schedule changes.

FIRST LUTHERAN (LCMC)

811 South Ave. W, Clear Lake, Bryan S. Anderson, Pastor, 715-263-2846, www.firstluthclearlake.com

Wednesday, August 27: 9 am Prayer Shawl Group; 5:30 pm Supper; 6 pm Fellowship and Fun. Sunday, August 30: 9 am Summer of Unity Worship; 10 am Fellowship. Tuesday, August 26: 9 am Quilting.

GEORGETOWN LUTHERAN (ELCA)

877 190th Ave./Cty. Rd. G, Balsam Lake (Fox Creek), Diane Norstad, Pastor, 715-857-5580, www.georgetownlutheran.net

Sundays: 9:15 am Sunday School; 10:30 a.m. Worship Service. Mondays: 9:30 am Bible Study.

GRACE LUTHERAN (WELS)

460 4th St., Clear Lake, 715-263-2140 Saturdays: 9 a.m. Worship Service.

HOLY TRINITY ORTHODOX

523 1st St., Clayton, Chris Wojcik, Pastor, 715-948-2493, www.htocclayton.org

HOLY TRINITY UNITED METHODIST

1606 165th Avenue, Centuria (County Rd I between Balsam Lake and Centuria, Steve Rice, Pastor, 715-485-3363, htslumc@gmail.com, Facebook Sundays: 8:30 am Worship.

IMMANUEL EV. LUTHERAN (LCMS)

124 E. Church St., Clayton, Scott 715-641-0054, Sundays: 9 am Divine Worship.

IMMANUEL LUTHERAN

375 65th Ave., Clayton, Susan Anderson, Pastor, 715-202-3623

JOURNEY CHURCH

131 Broadway St. E., Amery, Isaac Karpenske, Lead Pastor, 715-268-2223, office@journeychurch.city, www.journeychurch.city Sundays: 9 am Worship Service, Available Online at Amery Journey Church YouTube. Nursery for birth-3 years; Kid’s Church 4 years2nd Grade; 10:30 am Sunday School for All Ages. Mondays: 5 pm Latino Bible Study in the Teen Center. Weds: 6 pm Kids Club (Grades 1-5); Youth Group (Grades 6-12). Thursdays: 6:30 pm Trail Life. Saturdays: 7 am Men’s Life Group in the Gathering Room.

LITTLE FALLS LUTHERAN

1272 44th Ave., Amery, 715-268-9577, Loren Teig, Synodically Authorized Minister, www.nuicparish.org Sunday, August 31: 8 am Radio Broadcast on WPCA 93.1 FM; 9:30 am NUIC Combined Worship at Trinity.

LIVING WORD CHAPEL

2746 Hwy. 64, Forest, Sean and Libby Higgins, senior leaders, 715-265-4810 or 715-781-8247, www.livingwordchapel.com

MOE LUTHERAN (ELCA)

451 30th St., Clear Lake, Margaret Grant, Pastor, 715-948-2867, www.cllutheran.org

NEW LIFE COMMUNITY

119 Birch St. W., Amery, Craig Jorgenson, Pastor, 715-268-6989, www.amerynewlifechurch.org

Sundays: 10 am Church Service. Tuesdays: 6:30 pm Prayer. Wednesdays: 5:30 pm Youth Group.

OUR LADY OF THE LAKES CATHOLIC

507 W. Main St., Balsam Lake, Father Jerry Harris, Pastor, 715-405-2253, ourladyofthelakes.ws

Masses–Thursday: 9 am. Saturday: 6 pm. Sunday: 8:30 am. OUR SAVIOR’S LUTHERAN

217 Deronda St., Amery, 715-268-7290, www.oslcamery.org

Wednesday, August 27: 10 am and 2 pm Sunday Worship Service on Channel 6; 12 pm Table Talk.

Thursday, August 28: 9 am Bible Study. Saturday, August 30: 9 am Eagle Crest Cove Annual Meeting. Sunday, August 31: 9 am Worship. Tuesday, September 2: 1 pm Quilting.

REDEEMER LUTHERAN (LCMS)

600 Keller Ave. S., Amery, Edward Clemens, Pastor, 715-268-7283, redeemerlutheranchurch-amery.com

Sunday, August 31: 9:30 am Worship; 10:30 am Fellowship.

REEVE EVANGELICAL FREE

205 1 1/2 St./Cty. Rd K, Clear Lake, Todd Groat, Pastor, 715-263-2126, www.reevechurch.org

ST. BARNABAS EPISCOPAL

365 5th St., Clear Lake, Rev. Geri E. Sola, 715-263-2961

ST. JOHN’S CATHOLIC

811 4th St., Clear Lake, Fr. John Long, Pastor, 715-265-7133, www.jbjsaints.com

Sunday: 10:30 am Mass. Wednesday and Thursday: 9 am Mass.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC

1050 Keller Ave. N., Amery, Father Jerry Harris, Pastor, 715-268-7717, www.stjosephamery.org

Masses–Saturday: 4 pm. Sunday: 10:30 am. Wednesday: 9 am. Friday: 9 am.

ST. JOHN LUTHERAN (LCMS)

2803 Hwy. 64, Glenwood City (Forest), Dan Moeller, Vacancy Pastor Sundays: 9 am Worship Service.

TRINITY LUTHERAN OF GARFIELD

1578 85th Ave., Amery, 715-268-9577, Loren Teig, Synodically Authorized Minister, www.nuicparish.org

Sunday, August 31: 8 am Radio Broadcast on WPCA 93.1 FM; 9:30 am NUIC Combined Worship at Trinity.

UNITED COVENANT

348 5th St. NW, Clear Lake, Dan Pearson, Pastor, 715-263-2665, www.unitedcovchurch.org

Wednesday, August 27: 5:30 pm Young Adult The Case for Christ; 6:30 pm Doing Life Together Men’s Bible Study at West’s. Thursday, August 28: 6:30 pm Men’s Bible Study. Friday, August 29-Monday, September 1: Labor Day Family Camp at Lake Beauty Bible Camp.

Saturday, August 30: 7 am Men’s Bible Study at Sigsworth’s. Sunday, August 31: 8 am Worship Team Practice; 8:30 am Worship Service; 10 am Worship Service. Monday, September 1: 6 pm Women’s Bible Study. Tuesday, September 2: 8 am Prayer Time; 9 am Women’s Bible Study.

WEST IMMANUEL LUTHERAN (ELCA) 447 180th St., Osceola, www.westimmanuel.org, 715-294-2936

Sundays: 9:30 am Worship; Holy Communion 1st and 3rd Sunday. Worship on 87.9 FM; Nursery and Children’s Bags; Coffee and Fellowship Following Service; 10 am Sunday School (3-3rd grade during school year); 5 pm Bible Study (3rd Sunday). Tuesdays: 10 am Bible Study.

Wednesdays: 9 am Mens and Womens Group, Quilters (3rd and 4th Wednesday); Family Meal, WOW (4th-6th Grade), 7th-8th Grade Confirmation; HS Youth.

What is a DORA?

DORA stands for Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area. It’s a clearly defined district where people can purchase alcoholic beverages from licensed businesses and carry them outside in approved containers.

Key points about Amery’s DORA for the Fall Festival:

Applies only to beer and wine (no hard liquor).

Runs Sept. 11–14, 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Boundaries: Broadway Street to Hyland Street, Harriman Avenue to the Apple River.

Drinks must be in designated containers and consumed within the DORA boundaries.

Public intoxication rules remain in effect.

The goal is to give attendees flexibility while maintaining responsible oversight and supporting local businesses.

BRIDGE RESULTS

Thursday, August 21

1st: Steve Sondreal and Denny Psick

2nd: Shirley Klopotek and Sydney Lund

Amery’s Fall Festival to test open-container district

BY JUSTIN RUNBERG EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

Amery officials say this year’s Fall Festival will be the first test of a new downtown open-container zone, with beer and wine allowed in designated areas. City leaders and business owners will review the trial after the event to decide whether the approach should continue in future years.

DORA stands for Designated Outdoor Refreshment Area. It is a clearly marked district where people can buy alcoholic drinks from licensed businesses and carry them outside in approved containers. This will let attendees move through certain parts of Amery with specific alcoholic beverages in accepted containers. City staff met with local restaurants that serve alcohol, and they are interested in joining the DORA for the Fall Festival. This event will give the city a chance to try a new method and learn from the experience to improve it in future years.

“I think it's good to have these conversations, and I like the fact that we're just trying to see how it goes,” Alderperson Roger Van Someran said. “And then in the

end, I think there's some really good valid points there that, are you sending the wrong message? And, if we are, then we haven't accomplished what we want to do. And I like the idea of being responsible.”

When meeting with business members, they are also willing to discuss after the event what worked and what didn’t. This will help determine whether they want to do DORA in the future. Members of the council also believed it was a way to help manage situations and provide tools to do so effectively.

Marketing Director April Ziemer also commented on the DORA activation as one of the co-chairs for Fall Festival. Although alcohol will be available, the main focus will be on the many activities happening throughout town. Implementing this will also strengthen the partnership between downtown and Michael Park. Being able to sell alcohol is also a key way the community club can fund future events.

“I just want the public to be aware that our focus on this certainly is not on the alcohol,” Ziemer said. “It's about providing

activities for a variety of people. This piece just helps us pay for that. So that's it.”

Alderperson Fran Duncanson also said that City Administrator Alex Mansfield and Police Chief Dan Peters are collaborating with public health. This is because underage drinking is a significant problem in the county. She also added that alcoholism costs the county more than any other substances.

The other aspect of activating the ordinance is that it would restrict alcohol to beer and wine only. No hard liquor will be permitted. Instead, people are encouraged to enjoy their drinks at the establishment where they purchased them before leaving. Bar owners are also informed of this. The DORA activation also includes provisions regarding public intoxication. The DORA will be in effect from September 11th through September 14th, from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., within the boundaries from Broadway Street to Hyland Street. It will also cover the area from Harriman Avenue to the Apple River, in conjunction with the picnic license for the Fall Festival.

Girls Tennis starts season with two wins in home quadrangular

BY JASON SCHULTE

SENTINELSPORTS48@GMAIL.COM

The Amery girls’ tennis team started its season with two wins in its home quadrangular on August 20.

The Warriors defeated Ellsworth 5-2 as it swept all four singles matches highlighted by Faith Halverson’s 6-0, 6-0 win over Bailey Oleson at No. 1. Charlotte Stewart then defeated Madi maxwell 7-5, 6-1 at No. 3, while Reese Anderson beat Maggie Pechacek, 6-1, 7-6 at No. 4. Myka McCarty then earned a forfeit win over

Clara Mendez Sanchez-Biezma at No. 2.

The lone doubles win came at No. 3 as Jolee Marquand and Kate Moskal defeated Anna Oleson and Aria Mennenga 6-3, 6-4.

Amery then posted a shutout win over Barron with three of the wins being by scores of 6-0, 6-0: Cali Widiker over Isobel Felber at No. 2 singles; Reese Anderson and Ella Chute defeating Kennedy Harrington and Bethany Bigner at No. 2 doubles; and Marquand and Moskal sweeping Annabella Bartels and Avery Mathews at No. 3 doubles.

Halverson earned a 6-0, 6-1 win over Graycin Miller, along with Addie Gould and Mia Byrnes beating McKenzie Ecklor and Emerie Sinclair 6-0, 6-2 at No. 1 doubles. Rian Wallberg (No. 3 singles) and Camille Kastanek (No. 4 singles) earned forfeit wins.

Superior then defeated Amery 5-2 in the final match. Widiker earned the lone singles win at No. 4, beating Lily Mahan 6-3, 6-0, while Chute and Marquand swept 6-4, 6-3 at No. 3 doubles.

Four of five of Superior’s wins were straight-set victories. Stewart went to three sets at No. 3, losing to Alli Mihalik, 5-7, 6-1, 15-13.

Warriors fall to Grantsburg in season opener

The Amery Warriors opened their 2025 football season on the road August 22 with a 35-7 loss to Grantsburg in non-conference play.

“It was a tough night for us on both sides of the ball, mixing in many new faces to Friday nights from the past couple of seasons,” Amery coach Ryan Humpal said. “It took us a little while to get going. We did a lot of nice things, but we have a lot of things to improve on as the season moves forward.”

Daxter Schultz led the Grantsburg ground game with 16 rushes for 114 yards and a touchdown.

Brock Matheny went 11-for-17 through the air for 188 yards and a touchdown while adding a rushing touchdown of his own.

“Turning points were when we could not capitalize on a couple of red zone possessions,” Humpal added. “Those are the possessions we need to come away with points. If we could have executed on those possessions early on in the game, it

may have been a different outcome.”

The loss drops Amery to 0-1 to start the year. Amery hosts Unity (0-1) 7 p.m., August 28. Unity fell 30-8 to St. Croix Falls in its opener.

“Unity is always a nice matchup for us,” Humpal continued. “It will be a test, just like everyone should be. Looking for improvement out of every player on the team. This is the main thing on a short week.” Statistical recap aided by AI.

Anderson’s three touchdowns help Clayton defeat Frederic

Owen Anderson ran for 109 yards and three touchdowns as the Clayton football team started its season with a 27-25 victory over Frederic August 22.

Dayne Mumm chipped in with 78 yards rushing and a touchdown. Mumm also threw for 81 yards with Nathan Peterson hauling in a 42-yard reception. Cain Casarez led the defense with 9.5 total tackles, along with a sack and two tackles for loss. Dayne Mumm was second at 8.5, followed by Anderson’s 6.5.

Leif Lahti led the Vikings with 18 rushes for 102 yards and three touchdowns. Royce Anderson went 8-for-12 with 166 yards. His top target was Riley Cummings, who had five receptions for 117 yards and a touchdown.

Clayton (1-0 overall) travels to McDonell Central (1-0) 7 p.m., August 28. The Macks routed Alma Center Lincoln 59-24 in its opener.

Borzova leads PF/Clayton girls golf at B-W Invite

The Prairie Farm/ Clayton girls’ golf team finished 11th at the Baldwin-Woodville Invitational on August 19 at Pheasant Hills.

Prairie Farm/Clayton finished with a 533. Prescot won the meet with a 350, followed by Ellsworth’s 361. St. Croix Central took third with a score of 365.

Alexandra Borzova led PF/Clayton with a 115, followed by Spencer Roemhild’s 131. Emily Zemke carded a 132, and Ava Hundley shot a 155.

SCC’s Addison Kofal earned medalist honors with a 73, seven shots

ahead of Prescott’s Layla Salay. Ellsworth’s Lexi Marks was third.

CLOVERCROIX CONFERENCE AT BLOOMER

Prairie Farm/Clayton finished fifth at its conference opener August 21 at Bloomer.

Colfax/Elk Mound had three of the top five scores to cruise to the title at 171. Bloomer was second at 200. Stnaley-Boyd shot a 213. Prairie Farm/Clayton carded a 236. Borzova shot a 50 to finish in a three-way tie for seventh. Roemhild and Zemke were next, as

each earned a 59, while Addison Lentz completed a 68 to round out the scoring.

Elk Mound/Colfax’s Belle Kongshaug earned medalist honors by seven shots over teammate Clara Kongshaug. Bloomer’s Illa Nelson was third.

BARRON SCRAMBLE

Prairie Faram/ Clayton shot a 93 at the season-opening Barron Scramble August 15.

Colfax/Elk Mound won the Division 2 portion with a 59, followed by Spooner’s 63. Ellsworth was third at 64.

Warriors open season with back-to-back invites

The Amery girls’ golf team opened its season with back-to-back tournaments on Aug. 18–19, competing in the conference meet at Amery and the Baldwin-Woodville Invitational at Pheasant Hills.

MBC MEET AT AMERY

The Warriors finished eighth with a team score of 234. Macie Warner led Amery with a 51, placing her just outside the top 10 overall. Kennedy Miller followed with a 54, and Emma Olson shot a 63. Emmy Yeske posted a 66 to round out the team’s scoring.

Prescott won the meet with a 183, while Ellsworth was second at 191. St. Croix Central took third. St. Croix Central’s Addison Kofal was the medalist with a 40, one shot ahead of Ellsworth’s Lexi Marks. Prescott’s Macy Reiter took third.

BALDWIN-WOODVILLE INVITATIONAL

The following day, Amery traveled to Baldwin-Woodville, placing eighth out of 12 teams with a team score of 452. Warner once again led the team, carding a 99. Miller finished with a 112, followed by Olson (119) and Yeske (122).

Kofal earned medalist honors by seven shots over Prescott’s Layla Salay (73-80). Ellsworth’s Lexi Marks took third. Prescott also took the team title with a 350, while Ellsworth was second at 361. St. Croix Central finished third.

Statistical recap aided by AI.

Warriors run to victory over Royall

The Clear Lake football team finished with 319 yards rushing and four touchdowns as it started its season with a 28-8 victory over Royall August 22. Royall led 8-7 at halftime, but Clear Lake scored three touchdowns in the second half to pull away. Lane Prusak had 10 rushes for 128 yards and a touchdown, followed by Anthony Holloman’s 91 yards and a touchdown, while Caleb Arcand added 84 yards and two touchdowns.

Holloman tied for the team lead in total tackles with 6.5, along with Miles Johnson. Connor Monson was next at 5.5.

Clear Lake (1-0 overall) travels to Webster (0-1) 7 p.m., August 28

A LOOK AHEAD

Thursday,August28

1 p.m. – Amery Boys Soccer vs.

Charles T. (Thomas) Clark

Charles T. (Thomas) Clark, age 91, passed away on Saturday August 23, 2025, at the Amery Hospital of natural causes.

Charles T. Clark was born on January 20, 1934, in Clear Lake, WI, the son of Oscar Alfred Clark and Theresa Christina Clark (Thomas). He grew up and spent his entire life in his beloved Clear Lake (the “Athens” of the north). He was baptized, confirmed, a lifelong member, and served as senior warden of St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Clear Lake. He married the love of his life Ardeth Arlene Dold on July 25, 1952, making their home in Clear Lake. His beloved Ardeth passed away on June 3, 2015. They raised four children, Mary, Thomas, John, and Charles.

Charles T. worked and retired from the Andersen Windows Corporation and was a very active member of the Clear Lake community serving on the village board, library board and as president of the cemetery association. He also donated his time for many years to supervise open basketball at Clear Lake High School on Saturday mornings. Along with his wife Ardeth and others, he was instrumental in starting the Clear Lake Area Museum. He and Ardeth started the Clear Lake Chronicle from scratch so there would be a local newspaper to cover/record local history including Clear Lake school events.

Charles T. and Ardeth enjoyed travel and took many trips in the United States and abroad including trips to England, Germany, Switzerland, and Greece along with taking numerous Buckley Baseball Tours.

Charles T. was a proud lifelong Democrat. His passions were his family, church, history, sports (especially baseball), and fiercely promoting Clear Lake including its two favorite sons Burleigh A. Grimes and Gaylord A. Nelson. Chuck also took pride in the appearance of his home and yard and meticulously maintained the church grounds at St. Barnabas. His favorite sports teams were Clear Lake High School, the Wisconsin Badgers, Milwaukee Brewers, and his beloved Cleveland Indians (Guardians). One of his favorite sayings was, “You’re either from Clear Lake or you want to be.”

Charles T. lived in the same house for 85 plus years, was married for 63 years, was retired for longer than he worked, enjoyed great health until recently, and had many great friends. His family would like to thank all his friends for their help, especially in the past few years. He truly lived a blessed, full, and wonderful life. He is proceeded in death by his parents, Oscar and Theresa Clark; sister, Virginia (Ginger) Johnson; sister in-laws, Geraldine Becker and Yvonne (Putsy) Fredrick; and brother- in-laws, Hippocrates (Hippy) Mastromichalis, Marvin Johnson, Rodney Becker, and Jack Fredrick.

He is survived by his sister, Eva Mastromichalis; daughter and sons, Mary Kay (Craig) Brenholt – Eau Clarie, WI, Thomas Charles (Tia) Clark – New Richmond, WI, John Michael (Diane) Clark – Amery, WI, Charles Arthur Clark – Clear Lake, WI; grandchildren, Michael (Sarah) Brenholt, Thomas (Sarah) Brenholt, Katherine (Adam) Haugerud, Ashley (Andrew) Emig, Dana (Brandon) Kasper, Marie (Matt) Owens, Lisa (Kurt) Gehrman, and Courtney Clark; great-grandchildren, Lucille (Lucy), Franklin, Ingrid (Honey), Dinah, Josephine (Josie), Brenholt, Adelyn (Addie), Robert (Bobby), and Miriam (Minnie) Emig, Hank and Elle Gehrman, Joanna (Jo) Kasper; cousins, nieces, nephews, and friends.

Private (due to limited seating capacity) Mass of Christian Burial: 10:00 AM Thursday August 28, 2025, at St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Clear Lake, WI. Clergy: Father Philip Morgan. Visitation: Wednesday August 27, 2025, from 4-7 PM at the Scheuermann Funeral Home Clear Lake, WI. Casket Bearers: Michael Brenholt, Thomas Brenholt, Adam Haugerud, Andrew Emig, Brandon Kasper, Matt Owens, and Kurt Gehrman. Honorary Pallbearers: Ray Cress, Dennis Eckwall, Tim Petersen, Joe Pieters, Corey Munson, Bruce Ward, and Tim Wyss. Interment will be at the Clear Lake Cemetery in Clear Lake, WI following the funeral service. Memorials: St. Barnabas Episcopal Church in Clear Lake, WI or Clear Lake Area Museum. Scheuermann Funeral Home and Cremation Services of Clear Lake handled the arrangements. www.clearlakefuneralhome.com

John Francis Smith

John Francis Smith, age 70, of Balsam Lake, WI, died August 19, 2025 after an ATV accident. He was born on July 15, 1955 to Raymond Smith and Alice (Gay) Mesecher in Wichita, Kansas. As a child, John attended Osceola Elementary School and then graduated from Taylors Falls High School in 1974.

John worked a variety of jobs throughout his life, including working for the City of Taylors Falls, coaching Taylors Falls little league, and working at Doboy Feedmill, Jerome’s Foods, Peterson Construction, and lastly SMC where he retired on December 31, 2024. Most important to John, he was a proud member of the National Guard. He had 25 years of military service and was deployed to be a part of Desert Storm as well as Operation Iraqi Freedom. During his military career, John received numerous Army achievements, commendations,

Ruth Evelyn (Weigang) Shafer

Ruth Shafer passed away on Thursday, August 14, 2025 at Riverbend in Amery, WI.

Ruth Evelyn (Weigang) Shafer was born on March 18, 1928 in Clear Lake, WI to George and Martha (Voidt) Weigang. Ruth was confirmed at Balsam Lutheran Church on June 20, 1943. She attended Volga Grade School and graduated from Amery High School in 1946. After graduation, she worked at Wisconsin Hydro Electric as a secretary for six years. In 1946, Ruth met Gordon Shafer at the Avalon Roller Rink. They both loved to dance and went to wherever there was old time music. Ruth and Gordon married on December 14, 1948. They had two children, Rebecca (Becky) and John. Ruth loved being a homemaker. The house was always spotless and there were always cookies or some type of goody. Her colorful flower gardens kept her busy in the summer; there was nothing that made her happier than making the yard look nice. Summertime also meant motorcycle rides, which much to everyone’s surprise, she loved! Ruth and Gordon owned Gordy’s Bar in Amery from 1963-1979 and she waitressed there on Saturday nights, something else

DEATH NOTICE

Dean E. Scholz, age 80 of Clear Lake, WI, died on Friday, August 22, 2025 at the Amery Hospital in Amery, WI.  Visitation will be on Tuesday, September 2, 2025 from 4-7 pm at Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services 728 S Knowles Avenue New Richmond, WI and on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 from 10-11 am at church.  A Funeral Service will be held on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at 11 am at First Lutheran Church 811 South Avenue W Clear Lake, WI.  Interment will be in the Northern Wisconsin Veteran’s Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, WI.  Arrangements are with Bakken-Young Funeral & Cremation Services.

MEASLES:

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

accessed through the Wisconsin Immunization Registry, with instructions available in English, Spanish, and Hmong.

Klasen said no measles cases have been confirmed in St. Croix County since 2011. “Our public health team is working directly with the locations involved and contacting individuals known to be at-risk,” she said. The county

and medals, including: Combat Infantryman Badge, Army Commendation Medal, Army Achievement Medal, Army Good Conduct Medal, National Defense Service Medal, and Global War on Terrorism Medal. He was also a proud 128th Red Arrow member. In his free time, John was an active participant at the Fox Creek and Richardson’s Gun Clubs.

John was preceded in death by his parents, Raymond (Florence) Smith and Alice (Ercell) Mesecher; brother, Bill Smith; and sister, Cynn Marie Flodquist. He is survived by his siblings, Melvin (Sam) Smith, Jim (Laurel) Smith, Brenda Woodard, Michelle Mesecher, and Ercell Mesecher; sister-in-laws, Angie Smith, Sam Smith, and Laurel Smith; and many other loving family and friends.

A Celebration of Life will be from 4:00 to 7:00pm on Wednesday, September 3, 2025 at the Williamson-White Funeral Home in Amery, WI. There will be a burial with Military Honors at the Northern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, WI on Thursday, September 4, 2025 at 1:00pm.

To sign an online guestbook, please visit www.williamsonwhite.com. Arrangements were made with the Williamson White Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Amery, Wisconsin.

she enjoyed. The winter months would be her time for embroidery and candlewicking. And of course anytime was a good time to visit with the Grandkids! Unfortunately in her later years she was forced to give up many of her hobbies due to poor eyesight caused by Macular Degeneration.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Becky Green and son, John Shafer (Sonia); grandchildren, Holly Green, Sarah Riendeau (Aaron), Melissa Shafer, Alana Rouland (Aaron), and Bryan Shafer; and great-grandchildren, Vanessa, Addison, Nolan, and Finley Riendeau, Ashlyn Behrman, Jadon Presley, and Ava and Ana Rouland.

She was preceded in death by her husband, Gordon Shafer; her parents, George and Martha Weigang; her brothers and their wives, Wayne and Kay Weigang and George and Florance Weigang; and her son-in-law, DuWayne Green.

Ruth’s life will be celebrated on Saturday, September 6, 2025 at the Congregational Church in Amery, WI. Visitation will be held from 1:00-2:00pm, followed by a funeral service at 2:00pm and burial at Amery Cemetery. Luncheon to follow. To celebrate Ruth’s 97 years of life and her love of the beautiful flowers in her gardens, feel free to wear something colorful.

To sign an online guestbook and view a video tribute, please visit www.williamsonwhite.com. Arrangements were made with the Williamson White Funeral Home and Cremation Services in Amery, Wisconsin.

has also launched a dedicated measles information page at sccwi. gov.

Health officials noted measles remains highly contagious, lingering in the air up to two hours after an infected person leaves. Symptoms typically develop 10 to 21 days after exposure and include a high fever, runny nose, cough, red eyes and a rash that spreads across the body.

Anyone experiencing symptoms is urged to stay home, avoid public spaces and call their doctor before seeking care.

The MMR vaccine is available through doctors’ offices, clinics, health departments and some pharmacies. Those without insurance may qualify for assistance through the state’s Vaccines for Children and Vaccines for Adults programs.

Nitrogen is the main nutrient to add when fertilizing.

Ideal timing for fertilizing lawns

Early September is an ideal time for fertilizing lawns. Properly fertilized lawns will not only look better but will have fewer issues with weeds and certain disease problems. Key decisions to be made include choosing quality fertilizers and applying the correct amount to your lawn.

WI Yard & Garden

Bruce Spangenberg

Nitrogen, which provides green color and improves lawn density, is the main nutrient to add when fertilizing lawns. Wisconsin law limits phosphorus application on lawns to newly established lawns or lawns where soil test results show phosphorus deficiency. Similarly, potassium, available in winterizer fertilizers sold in fall, is not necessary to add in any significant amounts unless soil test results indicate deficiencies. How do you choose a quality nitrogen fertilizer for your lawn? Refer to the guaranteed analysis section on the bag, usually on the back, which provides details about nitrogen and other nutrients in the package. Look for controlled-release nitrogen in the product. Controlled-release nitrogen, often referred to as slow-release or extended feeding on the package, will release smaller amounts of available nitrogen over a longer period, providing uniform lawn growth.

Examples of specific controlled-release nitrogen sources found in fertilizers include sulfur-coated urea, ureaform, coated urea, IBDU, and activated sewage sludge. Some products, in particular organic materials, may use the term water insoluble nitrogen, or WIN. These are all examples of good nitrogen fertilizer sources for use on lawns. Although they are more costly, controlled release nitrogen fertilizers are highly suggested for overall lawn health, and these benefits support the higher cost. After purchasing a quality fertilizer, how much should be applied to a lawn? Apply about one pound of actual nitrogen for every 1,000 square feet of lawn. As an example, a fertilizer with 20 percent nitrogen (first of the three numbers on the bag) requires five pounds of fertilizer product to supply this one pound. Also to assist you, fertilizer labels often have suggested setting guides and indications on the lawn coverage the bag will provide, usually based on the one-pound nitrogen rate.

When using nitrogen fertilizers, take your time and use caution to both uniformly apply correct amounts and make sure the fertilizer is applied only to the lawn. Avoid fertilizer landing on impervious surfaces, as this creates potential problems with nutrients washing into storm drains, waterways, or other nontarget areas. Research shows turfgrass is very efficient at holding nutrients in place, not running off, if fertilizer is applied directly to lawns.

Regardless of the overall annual fertilization level, early September is a key time to add nitrogen by fertilizing your lawn. For more information on lawn care practices for Wisconsin lawns, refer to https://go.wisc.edu/WILawnCareCalendar

BRUCE SPANGENBERG is a Horticulture Outreach Specialist with UW-Madison Division of Extension. Get answers to your lawn, landscape, and garden questions anytime at www.go.wisc.edu/GardenQuestions

St. Croix Valley Orchestra receives donation from Johnson Motors

Johnson Motors in St. Croix Falls, WI recently celebrated its 100th anniversary! As part of the dealership’s celebration, they launched a campaign, "100 days of Giving," that raised funds for local charities and non-profit organizations. As customers bought new vehicles, or paid for vehicle service during the 100 days leading up to August 12th, 2025, Johnson Motors donated a portion of the sales to community organizations. The St. Croix Valley Orchestra was honored to receive a generous gift of $2,000. The orchestra is deeply grateful for this support, which helps share the gift of music and enrich the lives of people throughout the St. Croix Valley. The St Croix Valley Orchestra has three winter, two spring and a summer concert schedule for 2025-2026. The orchestra is under the direction of Matthew Poon, Asst Professor of Music Theory, UW Eau Claire and Associate Conductor, Zachary Bartsch, Music Instructor, St Croix Falls, WI School District.

AMERY AREA COMMUNITY CENTER

608 Harriman Ave S., aaccjen@outlook.com, 8:00am to 3:00pm Monday – Friday.

A rumor is defined as a currently circulating story or report of uncertain or doubtful truth. A rumor has a way of skating under our mental defenses before we think to question them; and can get the best of us by bypassing common sense. Rumors are ultimately a piece of unverified information that we pass around to make sense of the world. What makes a rumor effective? Successful rumors needle our anxieties and emotions; according to Psychology Today. Why do rumors start? They say fear breeds rumors; the more anxiety a group has the more inclined it will be to start a rumor; rumors can be started to help decipher scary or uncertain situations. This actually relieves our uneasiness by giving us a sense of trying to know what is happening. Rumors tend to “stick” if they surprise us but still fit our existing biases; meaning if we already have a preconceived notion about someone or something we are more likely to believe something that is made up about that topic. Why do we believe rumors? Evidence proves that people can be quite gullible; and most rumors we hear don’t need us to question the validity of the rumor. Rumors are, in part, of who we are as a person, they represent something basic, central and significant about who we are. How can we squelch a rumor? Be careful what you say and who you say it to, see if you can find the truth in what you say before you share it. If it is not your news to share don’t share it until it is shared from the source. Stay healthy and hope to see you all soon!

**We have a new Foot Clinic Nurse! Every second Tuesday of each month moving forward, from 10:00-3:00 every half hour; for $25 cash or check only. Now booking for October! Please call us here at the Community Center to get your date and time!

Our annual rummage sale is coming up! September 4th & 5th, this is your last chance to dig through your closets to donate items; all proceeds go back to the Community Center to help offset operating costs. Call to schedule a time to donate items or if you want to volunteer to help. Free will offering.

Amery Area Community Center Members Memberships! Stop in or mail your dues to us, remember membership at the Community Center is January 1st to December 31st. Fees for ALL members, new or renewing, are $20, cash or check only; please. Consider becoming a Patron of the Center with a donation of an additional $10 or MORE

Rentals: Now booking all your Fall (can you believe it?) events! If you are looking for a place to host a graduation party, family reunion, birthday party, bridal or baby shower or celebration

of life consider the Community Center; rental of the main hall includes use of commercial kitchen. We will also work with profit and nonprofit organizations to help with the perfect meeting place. The commercial kitchen can also be rented on its own, call for details! The fitness center; for an additional $10 per month; we have a treadmill, elliptical, recumbent bike and more, stop in and see what we have to offer! No contract fees or commitment required.

Tues Aug 19th: Pool winners are Gary Snelling in 1st, Mary Fiher placed 2nd, Dean Elken with 3rd, Janet DeLong in 4th & Norm Fougner with the consolation prize.

Wed Aug 20th: Bridge winners are Steve Berestka in 1st, Matt Saarem in 2nd, & Peg Bavin with 3rd. Thur Aug 21st: Pool winners are Dean Elken in 1st, Dave Olson placed 2nd, Norm Fougner with 3rd, Gary Snelling with 4th & Wendell Anderon with the consolation prize.

Congratulations to all!

Jen Tyman- Director

Members of the St Croix Valley Orchestra accept a check from Johnson Motors. Pictured L-R: Brad Johnson, General Manager, Johnson Motors, Kathryn Paulson, SCVO Board, Joel Anderson, SCVO Board Chair, Brad Nygren, Sales Manager, Johnson Motors.

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

Our law firm is the largest and most experienced personal injury law firm in Polk County. We have three lawyers, six legal assistances and a full-time investigator. From our offices in Amery and Oakdale, we have handled thousands of cases across Wisconsin and Minnesota. Our primary areas of practice are personal injury, car accidents, worker’s compensation, Social Security Disability, and insurance litigation.

Our lawyers and staff are great supporters of the Amery community. We sponsor an annual college scholarship and contribute to more than a dozen local charities. Our success would not be possible without our dedicated and talented staff and for that we are grateful. Thank you Sarah, Carolee, Lisa, Faith, Peggy, Valerie and Wong. Visit us at www.amerylaw.com or see us on Facebook.

JUSTIN RUNBERG | AMERY FREE PRESS

Back Row L-R: Faith Swager, Peggy Green, Wong Vang, Carolee Swanson, Valerie Schultz. Front Row L-R: Timothy Sempf, Sarah Tischer, Jason Whitley, Erik Bergmanis, Lisa Swanson.

HELP WANTED

Worn Again, Inc., a local Thrift store is looking for a full-time (28-35 hours/wk) self-motivated and energetic person to join our team! Must be able to lift 30 lbs and work every other weekend. Employer paid benefits. Apply in person or email resume to wornagaininc@gmail.com, Attn: Colleen

207 Keller Ave N • Amery • 715-268-6080

Clayton School District, WI is accepting applications for:

PARAPROFESSIONAL

(Part Time Position)

DUTIES MAY INCLUDE:

Individual provides a variety of student support services.

• Up to 29 hours/week part-time when students are in attendance.

REQUIRED KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS:

• High School Diploma or equivalent

• Effective communication skills

• Ability to maintain confidentiality Experience working with students with diverse learning styles and/or needs, preferred but not required

STARTING WAGE: $17.63 per hour

TO APPLY: If interested in applying for the part-time paraprofessional position please send letter of interest and resume’ with references as soon as possible to District Administrator Patrick Sturzl, 236 Polk Ave. W., PO Box 130, Clayton, WI 54004 or email to sturzlp@ claytonsd.k12.wi.us . Call the District Administrator at (715) 948-2163 if you have any questions regarding the position.

The Clayton School District is an Equal Opportunity Employer.

STATE OF WISCONSIN

CIRCUIT COURT

POLK COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE ESTATE OF

Daniel T. McGlinch

DOD: 7/6/2025

Notice to Creditors

(Informal Administration)

Case No. 25 PR 72

Scan this QR Code to see Employment opportunities in eastern Minnesota and western Wisconsin communities.

PLEASE TAKE NOTICE:

1. An application for informal administration was filed.

2. The decedent, with date of birth November 21, 1961 and date of death July 6, 2025, was domiciled in Polk County, State of Wisconsin, with mailing address of 2514 170th St., Luck, WI 54853.

3. All interested persons

waived notice.

4. The deadline for filing a claim against the decedent’s estate is November 26, 2025.

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

/s/ Cheryl Winberg

Probate Registrar

WANTED

Semi-truck drivers pulling hopper bottom trailers only. Full-time and part-time. Running 150 mile radius, WI and MN. Home every night and no weekends required. Competitive wages and 401k plan. Located by Connorsville, WI

Cell: (715) 495-1233 • Office: (715) 643-2307

Email: Jeff@qualitygrainservices.com

August 11, 2025

Ryan C. Cari Heywood, Cari & Anderson, S.C. 816 Dominion Drive, Suite 100 Hudson, WI 54016

715-386-5551

Bar Number 1052279

WNAXLP (Aug. 19, 26, Sept. 2)

To subscribe, just call 715-268-8101

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

Tips of the Week

from Gene Johnson and Matt McMillan

LIABILITY DISCLAIMER INDEMNIFICATION

The Newspaper shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of the advertisement.

The Newspaper shall not be liable or responsible for any error in any advertisement except to give the Advertiser credit for so much of the space occupied by the advertisement as is materially affected by the error; credit shall be by refund or republication of the advertisement at the election of Newspaper. Such credit shall only be given for one incorrect insertion if the Publisher is notified in writing of the error before the repetition of the insertion. When the Advertiser wishes to correct or change the copy submitted as a “proof,” the Newspaper shall not be liable for the changes or corrections unless the Newspaper receives them within a reasonable length of time before the deadline for publication.

If an advertisement is requested to run after the copy deadline, the Newspaper will not honor an adjustment request if an error occurs.

No specific page or position shall be guaranteed.

The Advertiser or Agency shall indemnify the Newspaper for any attorney’s fees incurred in defending against claims, pay any judgments against the Newspaper, and pay associated expenses and losses that are caused by the publication of any advertisement submitted by or published at the direction of the Advertiser or Agency, including claims for libel, copyright infringement, and invasion of privacy.

Exciting Opportunities Available at Northwood Tech Helpdesk/Media Technician New Richmond Campus (FT)

Ready to turn your tech skills into meaningful impact? Northwood Technical College is looking for a dynamic professional to provide hands-on technology support, empower users, and help bring events and innovation to life—all while working in a values-driven, collaborative environment.

Success Coach

Shell Lake HEC (PT/LTE)

Rice

Ready to turn your tech skills into meaningful impact? Northwood Technical College is looking for a dynamic professional to provide hands-on technology support, empower users, and help bring events and innovation to life—all while working in a

collaborative environment.

Maintenance

Northwood Technical College is hiring for a parttime, grant-funded position focused on supporting students in the Automotive Maintenance & Light Repair Technician Program for the St. Croix Chippewa Indians of Wisconsin. In this role, you’ll provide oneon-one coaching, tutoring, and resource referrals.

Join a mission-driven team where your skills in repairs, preventative maintenance, and facilities upkeep directly support student

PUBLIC NOTICES

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT

POLK COUNTY IN THE MATTER OF NAME CHANGE OF Cheryl Ann Laux

By (Petitioner) Cheryl Ann Laux

Notice of Name Change Hearing Case No. 25CV211 NOTICE IS GIVEN:

A Petition was filed asking to change the name of the person listed above:

From: Cheryl Ann Laux

To: Cheryl Ann Miller Laux Birth Certificate: Cheryl Ann Miller

This Petition will be heard in the Circuit Court of Polk County, State of Wisconsin before Honorable Daniel J. Tolan at 1005 W. Main St.,

ORDINANCE 18-2025

CITY OF AMERY – POLK COUNTY, WISCONSIN

CH. 358 ARTICLE II– ALL-TERRAIN AND UTILITY VEHICLES

AN ORDINANCE AMENDING CH. 358 ARTICLE II OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF AMERY

The Common Council for the City of Amery, Polk County, Wisconsin do ordain on, August 20, 2025, as follows: WHEREAS, the City Council for the City of Amery has determined that in conformity with other relevant sections of the Municipal Code; for the orderly operation and development of the City; and to protect the health, safety, and well-being of its citizens that it is an appropriate exercise of its authority and power to amend, create, and recreate its municipal ordinances so as to implement rules, policies and regulations pertaining to the orderly operation of the City;

NOW THEREFORE, the City Council for the City of Amery does hereby approve, amending Chapter 358 within the Code of Ordinances for the City of Amery to modify who can operate an all-terrain vehicle on City of Amery streets, how it can be operated, and what streets it can be operated on.

The full ordinance can be viewed at the City Clerk’s office located at the City of Amery, 104 Maple Street West, Amery, WI – Monday through Thursday from 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted, Taylor Larson, City Clerk-Treasurer City of Amery WNAXLP

theameryfreepress.com

ADDENDUM

TOWN OF ALDEN POLK COUNTY, WISCONSIN NOTICE OF ADDENDUM

“CEDAR LAKE BOAT RAMP REPLACEMENT”

The Town of Alden issues the following Addendum for the “Cedar Lake Boat Ramp Replacement 2025” project in the Town of Alden, Polk County, per the plan of Proposed Construction.

The Town of Alden cancels the request for Proposals, originally scheduled for 11:00 a.m. on Friday September 5, 2025. at the office of the Town of Alden: Town of Alden Town Hall, 183 155th Street, Star Prairie, Wisconsin 54026.

Authorized by: The Town of Alden, Chairman, Keith Karpenski, 183 155th Street, Star Prairie, Wisconsin 54026

There will be no Proposals accepted at 11:00 a.m. Friday September 5, 2025, at the office of The Town of Alden as shown above.

Any questions can be directed to: DJ Fedderly Management Consultant LLC, Daniel J. Fedderly P.E.; P.L.S., 603 South Broadway, Menomonie, Wisconsin 54751, 715-505-9242, hwype@wwt.net

By Order of the Town of Alden Board. Keith Karpenski Chairman Town of Alden

Daniel J. Fedderly P.E.; P.L.S Engineer DJ Fedderly Management Consultant, LLC WNAXLP

Branch 1, Balsam Lake, WI 54810 on October 3, 2025 at 8:30 a.m.

If you require reasonable accommodations due to a disability to participate in the court process, please call 715-485-9299 prior to the scheduled court date. Please note that the court does not provide transportation.

NOTICE TO NEWSPAPER AND PETITIONER:

Notice of this hearing shall be given by publication as a Class 3 notice for three weeks in a row prior to the date of the hearing in following newspaper: Amery Free Press.

WNAXLP (Aug. 26, Sept. 2, 9)

ORDINANCE 17-2025

CITY OF AMERY – POLK COUNTY, WISCONSIN CH. 322 – SPECIAL EVENTS AN ORDINANCE CREATING CH. 322 OF THE CODE OF ORDINANCES OF THE CITY OF AMERY

The Common Council for the City of Amery, Polk County, Wisconsin do ordain on, August 20, 2025, as follows: WHEREAS, the City Council for the City of Amery has determined that in conformity with other relevant sections of the Municipal Code; for the orderly operation and development of the City; and to protect the health, safety, and well-being of its citizens that it is an appropriate exercise of its authority and power to amend, create, and recreate its municipal ordinances so as to implement rules, policies and regulations pertaining to the orderly operation of the City;

NOW THEREFORE, the City Council for the City of Amery does hereby approve, creating Chapter 322 within the Code of Ordinances for the City of Amery to establish a fair and orderly process for permitting special events that require exclusive use of public parks, streets, sidewalks, or right-of-way in the City of Amery. The full ordinance can be viewed at the City Clerk’s office located at the City of Amery, 104 Maple Street West, Amery, WI – Monday through Thursday from 7:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted, Taylor Larson

City Clerk-Treasurer

City of Amery WNAXLP

TOWN OF BLACK BROOK NOTICE OF MEETINGS

WEDNESDAY, AUGUST 27, 2025

99 75th Street, Clear Lake WI 54005

6:00 PM - PLAN COMMISSION MEETING

AGENDA:

1. CSM – presented by Michael Markee for Brenda Boe

2. CSM – presented by Joe Granberg for Jennifer Thompson

7:00 PM - MEETING OF THE TOWN BOARD OF SUPERVISORS

AGENDA:

Call to order; Pledge of Allegiance; proof of meeting notice; approve agenda; approve minutes; approve vouchers & pay bills; readings of reports; public comments

OLD BUSINESS:

1. None

NEW BUSINESS:

1. Consider enforcement action for violation of nuisance ordinance for 547 State Hwy 46

2. Review of Building Code Ordinance, Title 15

3. LP Contract

4. 2026 Bridge aid project on 85th St. ¾ mile south of County Road A

5. Recycling Event next Spring

Discussion, consideration, and action may occur on any of the above agenda items.

Agendas are subject to change; the final agenda will be posted on our website and on the town hall door as per state statute.

Submitted and posted by Janel Belle Isle, Clerk Web Site: www.blackbrookwi.gov WNAXLP

NOTICE OF JOINT REVIEW BOARD MEETING FOR TAX INCREMENTAL DISTRICT IN THE CITY OF AMERY, WISCONSIN

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN, that the City of Amery will hold an organizational Joint Review Board (JRB) meeting on Monday, September 8th at 10:00 AM at Amery City Hall, 104 Maple Street, Amery, WI. The purpose of this meeting is to fulfill the requirements of WI 2016 Act 257 in holding an annual JRB meeting and reviewing all active TIF Districts. The meeting is open to the public. A copy of the agenda is available and will be provided upon request. For information on the meeting or to obtain an agenda please contact the City Administrator at 715-268-3411.

Alex Mansfield

City Administrator

NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING

The PLANNING COMMISSION of the Village of Clear Lake, Polk County, Wisconsin, having before it for consideration, a request for rezoning for the following parcel owned by The Derricks Group Inc - Parcel # 11300220-0000 (225 5th Street) described as PT LOT 18 CSM #1207 V6 P23 (453347) & PT LOT 20 ASSESSORS PLAT VILLAGE OF CLEAR LAKE.

Request is to Rezone from B-1 Business / Commercial to R-3 Single Family Residential.

NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN that a public hearing will be held before the Planning Commission on Thursday September 4th at 1 p.m. at the Clear Lake Municipal Building, 350 4th Avenue, Clear Lake, Wisconsin, where opportunity will be afforded to all interested parties to be heard. A detailed description of the rezoning request is available for public inspection at the office of the Village Clerk, 350 4th Avenue, Clear Lake, Wisconsin.

THEREFORE, THE PLANNING COMMISSION will consider this rezoning request on Thursday September 4th at 1 p.m. at the Clear Lake Municipal Building, 350 4th Avenue, Clear Lake, Wisconsin.

Dated this August 12, 2025.

Albert L. Bannink

Village Clerk - Treasurer

Village of Clear Lake

AMERY LAKES P&R DISTRICT ANNUAL MEETING AGENDA

SEPT. 2, 2025 7:30 PM AMERY CITY HALL

I. Call to order

II. Annual meeting minutes from 2024

III. Financial report and internal audit results

IV. Public concerns/comments

V. 2024-25 activities summary

VI. Grant updates

VII. Plant management/AIS update

VIII. Land purchase update

IX. Long-term plans

X. 2025-26 budget

Election of directors: Tom Hartman and Chad Leonard positions

Election of officers for 2025-26

Submitted by Steve Schieffer, Chair

CPA

CPA

Margo A. Rosen, CPA | Abby L. Williamson, CPA

P. Honl, CPA | Susan L. Hartman, CPA 301 Keller Ave. S, Amery, Wisconsin Business: (715) 954-4995 Fax (715) 954-4998 www.carlsonsv.com

What a night to remember! Arnell Memorial Humane Society recently celebrated our 25th anniversary, and we want to extend a heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us. We loved sharing memories, visiting with our four-legged alumni, and spending the evening surrounded by so many friends and supporters.

Many guests gathered to page through the scrapbooks put together by Mary Bruckner, Arnell’s director for over two decades. We deeply appreciate not only the time and effort she dedicated to creating these special keepsakes, but also the years of care and commitment she gave to the shelter and its animals. We’d also like to give a big thank-you to Hog Wild BBQ for being on-site and serving up delicious food - it was the perfect addition to a truly special celebration. Looking ahead, we are excited to continue serving our community for many more years to come—helping pets and people find joy in one another.

This week, our Pets of the Week are Tails and Dexter, a bonded pair of orange tabby boys who are hoping to find a forever home together. Tails is a 3-year-old manx with a shortened tail, a silly streak, and the sweetest personality. His best buddy Dexter is 1.5 years old with a gorgeous long-haired coat. Dexter can be a little shy at first, but with Tails by his side, he’ll come out of his shell. These boys will do best in a quieter household with patient adopters willing to give them time to adjust. Stop by and meet them any time we are open – no appointment required!

We’ve got back-to-back meat raffles coming up! On Friday, September 12th, the Dresser Lions will be hosting a meat raffle at Ward’s Bar in Dresser starting at 6:30pm. The very next day, Saturday, September 13th, Jack Pot’s Bar-N-Grill in Osceola will host a meat raffle beginning at 3:30pm. Both events promise good company, delicious prizes,and a chance to support the animals in our care—we hope to see you at one (or both)!

As always, we welcome you to visit us during open hours: Weekdays from 12–5pm and Saturdays from 12–4pm. Our staff is happy to answer calls during those hours at (715) 268-7387. You can also learn more about adoptable pets, upcoming events, and ways to get involved by visiting us online at arnellhumane. org.

Steer clear of Big Butternut

Health officials are urging residents and visitors to avoid contact with Big Butternut Lake after Polk County issued a water advisory this week due to potentially toxic blue-green algae blooms.

The advisory, announced Thursday by the Polk County Public Health Department, cautions that algae can produce toxins dangerous to people and animals if swallowed, inhaled, or contacted through the skin. County officials said the blooms may persist through late summer as warm, calm weather continues.

Blue-green algae, or cyanobacteria, are common in Wisconsin lakes but can multiply quickly in warm, shallow water exposed to sunlight. When that happens, the blooms can discolor the water or form green paint-like scums on the surface.

“People should treat any water that looks cloudy, like pea soup, or has floating scum as unsafe,” county health staff said in the advisory. “Do not swim, swallow the water, or allow pets to drink from the lake until conditions improve.”

Exposure to algal toxins can cause stomach cramps, vomiting, diarrhea, fever, muscle weakness and difficulty breathing in both people and pets. Severe cases may result in liver or respiratory failure, and in rare cases, death.

Health officials recommend contacting a doctor or the Wisconsin Poison Information Hotline (800222-1222) if symptoms develop after exposure. More information is available on the Polk County Health Department’s website or by calling 715-485-8400.

Hard-Working Farms!

Farming is a lot of hard work. Farmers need to think about the condition of the soil, the weather, caring for plants or animals, harvesting, shipping and selling products at the market. The days are long! Check out my two cool farm crossword puzzles.

What’s up, little chick?

Just enjoying the quiet... there are hundreds of peeping chicks in the incubator!

T

1. Lots of animals live on farms. Can you place the names of farm animals scattered in the puzzle above into the puzzle frame?

2. Read the clues below to fill in the crossword on the right with different kinds of farms.

1. grown for clothing, bedding

2. tap tree sap to make syrup, candy

3. vegetable grown in the ground; has “eyes”

4. turkey, chicken

5. in warm areas, fruit, juice

6. used for "butter," oils

7. animals for beef

8. wheat, corn, oats

9. for yards, forests, Christmas 10. cows, milk, cheese, butter

Working and Running a Farm

Farms have buildings for shelter, storage and sales. It also takes many pieces of equipment to run a farm. Can you find and circle the items below that you might find on different farms?

hoe silo rake barn plow truck pump fences baler reaper ladder tractor planter buckets windmill combine shovel wagon sprinkler pitchfork crop duster pickup truck milking machine drainage system

This farm puts on a great feed!

Can you find and circle 10 words that begin with the consonant blends cr, dr, fr, gr, pr and tr?

Every day we can crow about all the hard work our Moms and Dads do to keep our families running smoothly.

Can anyone see where Chitter is working?

Oh, it's a machine used in a field to cut wheat or corn.

Did you know that there are __ __ __ farms?

Do you know what a “combine” is?

Honey

Hey, hay! Hey! You found me!

Can you find and circle 5 words that are spelled with “ee” and have the long “e,” or “e” sound?

Have you ever been to a chicken farm for __ __ __ __?

Use the word list below if you get stuck!

dairy cattle orange potato grain tree maple sugar peanut poultry cotton

A combine also separates and gathers seeds from the plants!

and orchards

of hard work.

Hard-Working Farms!

Did you find and circle all the words that start with consonant blends?

Hey, don’t look at me, Bud! I get paid chicken feed to work around here, so I farmed that job out.

Working and Running a Farm

e g g s

Did you know that there are __ __ __ farms? Have you ever been to a chicken farm for __ __ __ __?

Oh, don’t mind him. He just thinks he rules the roost. We found: crossword, crow, drainage, fruit, grain, great, ground, grown, products, tractor, tree and truck.

Hey, crunch starts with the consonant blend “cr”!