Laker 1 – May 13, 2022

U.S. POSTAGE PAID MAILED FROM ZIP CODE 54001 PERMIT NO. PI24160

L KER Vol. 2022 • No. 1 • May 13 to June 2, 2022

FREE

FALLING IN LOVE WITH LOVELESS LAKE LONG LIVE LONG LAKE

Also Included BALSAM LAKE CAFÉ: FANTASTIC FOOD SERVED UP WITH A SIDE OF SMILES CHALK IT UP TO THE DOCK BOYS COOKING BY THE LAKE: FROM SURF TO TURF, LAKESIDE RECIPES YOU’LL LOVE Sentinel Publications: Amery Free Press, Baldwin Bulletin, Burnett County Sentinel, Country Messenger & Osceola Sun

The Cargo Manifest Port of Call LOVELESS LAKE

LONG LAKE

p. 3A

p. 1B

Galley BALSAM LAKE CAFE

FARMERS MARKETS

p. 9A

p. 1C

Welcome to the Laker Summer is just within reach, which means lake life is at its finest.

Take the time to skip a stone, dip your toes in the water, breathe in the serenity of the lake and read the season’s first edition of the Laker.

We shine the spotlight on two local lakes in this issue; Loveless and Long. You will be introduced to the Dock Boys, get a schooling on Yellow Perch, read about Balsam Lake’s small café with big flavor and learn about No Mow May. You will also find a story on life jacket safety, find out when to check out local Farmers Markets and how use these fresh ingredients in featured recipes.

You know what they say, “Just being at the lake fixes everything.”

The publication dates are as follows:

COOKING BY THE LAKE

p. 9B

Laker #1 – Friday, May 13 Laker #2 – Friday, June 3 Laker #3 – Friday, June 17 Laker #4 – Friday, July 1 Laker #5 – Friday, July 15 Laker #6 – Friday, July 29 Laker #7 – Friday, August 19

Enjoy your Laker and your summer!

Ropes LIFE JACKETS

NO MOW MAY

p. 6C

p. 3C

Fishery

Riggings

April Ziemer, Editor editor@theameryfreepress.com Got a comment or a story idea?

Email us at polkcountylaker@ gmail.com Cover photo by Loveless Lake Association

YELLOW PERCH

DOCK BOYS

p. 9B

p. 4B

Shore Leave p. 10B 2A

THE LAKER | MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022

Fishers of Men p. 11B

SENTINEL

PU B L I C AT I O N S © 2022 The LAKER is proudly published

by Sentinel Publications , carrying on from Ledger Publications

Port of Call

FALLING IN LOVE WITH LOVELESS LAKE

By April Ziemer editor@theameryfreepress.com

East of Centuria sits Loveless Lake, tucked away from the hustle and bustle of busy roads and not overly crowded, it is the perfect place to chill and fish.

Like Long Lake to the north, plentiful fish include panfish (bluegill, sunfish, crappie, pumpkinseed and yellow perch), Largemouth Bass and Northern Pike.

Loveless Lake spans 132 acres. It has a maximum depth of 20 feet and an average depth of 15 feet. Visitors have access to the lake from a public boat landing.

Colton Sorensen, Water Quality Specialist for the Polk County Land and Water Resource Department, shared CONTINUED ON 4A

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MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022 | THE LAKER

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Port of Call LOVELESS LAKE | FROM 3A Ni

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can disturb Planktothrix rubescens and suspend it in the water column. If there is any suspicion of a bloom report to Polk County Land and Water Resources Department.

Testing for toxins in the future is possible, however it is very expensive. Sample costs and overnight shipping is required because the sample can dissipate over time. Total sample costs would be near 200 dollars per sample. The amount of toxins can vary from one side of the lake to the other.

Polk County Health Department and LWRD have been working together to come up with a sampling protocol. The Staff at LWRD have been sampling and will continue to periodically sample until further notice. ■

id Re

Planktothix rubescens had been discovered on Loveless.

One Planktothrix rubescens bloom does not mean this is the new normal for Loveless lake. But the implementation of best management practices will reduce nutrients entering the lake not allowing for Planktothrix rubescens to be so prolific.

Monitoring for blooms throughout the summer is very important to understand when these blooms occur to identify possible triggers for the bloom.

Identifying a bloom in the open water season would be looking for small red/pink fragments in the water or the whole lake having a pinkish appearance.

During the open water season wave action and boat traffic

TOPOGRAPHIC SYMBOLS Submergent vegetation Steep slope Public Access LAKE BOTTOM SYMBOLS GR Gravel MK Muck R Rubble SD Sand SPECIES OF FISH PRESENT X Northern Pike X Largemouth Bass X Panfish

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THE LAKER | MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022

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Port of Call

Loveless Lake Association Loveless Lake is beautiful throughout the various seasons.

Your we-makeit-easy partner We know that life, kids and sniffles don’t follow a 9-to-5 schedule. That’s why we offer online scheduling and video visits – giving you the care you need, when you need it.

Your nearest clinic Amery Hospital & Clinic 265 Griffin St. E. Make your appointment at healthpartners.com/ schedule or call 715-268-8000

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THE LAKER | MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022

Galley

BALSAM LAKE CAFÉ: FANTASTIC FOOD SERVED UP WITH A SIDE OF SMILES

By April Ziemer editor@theameryfreepress.com

Whether it’s breakfast before you hit the beach or lunch after a lazy lake morning, the Balsam Lake Café will offer you a variety of options and is sure to become a favorite stop.

Angela Chandler recently celebrated her third anniversary as owner of the café. From the start, she just knew it was where she was meant to be.

Chandler spent many years working in the restaurant/bar industry. Three years ago, one of her regular customers at another establishment told her the Balsam Lake Café would be closing down and was going up for sale. “I think I thought about it for 18 hours. I met with the current owners and had the keys about two weeks later. It was one of those very spontaneous things that I don’t normally do. Usually I think things to death, but this just felt right,” said Chandler.

Chandler moved to the area with her family four years ago from Oregon. When she and her husband looked for the right place to plant new roots, Wisconsin seemed to fit them very

’s k c Ni

Trucking & Excavating

well. Chandler said, “There is amazing medical care, great property prices and family values. We are close to a big city, but we get to be in a small town we love,” She credits her family support for the café’s success. “I am the owner, but this is really a family business. My son cooks, my daughter works the front of the house and my husband takes many things when I need it,” said Chandler.

Contributed She said the last three years have been Angela Chandler serves up many tasty treats for drive thru a rollercoaster but feels it has been very customers. rewarding to be a part of the community.

Chandler said, “We had not even been in “What do you do, other than roll with it? I business for a year before COVID hit. It made have amazing customers and a fantastic me change a lot of what I do in my business.” community. COVID made me change the way Some of the changes included adding an I operate my business, but I am stronger for it,” outdoor patio for dining and offering “heat and Chandler said. eat” meal options to go.

The aftermath of the pandemic has While summers used to be so much busier brought challenges of employee and product shortages, along with skyrocketing prices.

CONTINUED ON 10A

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Galley BALSAM LAKE CAFE | FROM 9A than other times of the year, due to lake customers being around, Chandler said COVID has also caused changes in that. “People spent much more time at the lake because of COVID. They have been able to work remotely and have also realized maybe the commute really isn’t so bad,” she said.

The change has been good for the café. “Small town main street businesses need support, we are reliant on our customers and I have been fortunate,” she said.

The café makes all of their food from scratch and they use fresh ingredients. Chandler said, “I think people really appreciate the ‘home cooked’ offerings.”

Something the restaurant has become known for are their Mimosa flights. The tiny café does have a beer and wine license.

Feeling like the area is the home

of Bloody Marys with breakfast, they wanted to try something to set themselves apart. Their Mimosa flights have taken off, in fact some customers have called the drink option ‘Legendary.”

You can order a traditional orange juice Mimosa, or you can try one of their other 12 fun flavors. The flights are full size Mimosas and Chandler said, “It is great to just sit out on the patio with friends, try the Mimosa flavors and enjoy the sunshine.”

The café also offers a drive thru, online ordering and a full lineup of lattes, mochas, etc. and a small gift area.

The Balsam Lake Café is open 7:30a.m.-2p.m. Monday-Friday and 8a.m.-p.m. Saturday and Sunday. ■

Contributed Customers enjoy Balsam Lake Café’s outdoor dining area.

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Contributed Breakfast with a kick. Try the café’s famous Mimosa flights.

Welcome to beautiful Balsam Lake, a village living in natural harmony.

Established in 1905 the Village of Balsam Lake rests on the southwest shore of Balsam Lake in one of the most prime tourist locations of northwest Wisconsin. Whether you are looking to relax or take part in a wide variety of activities, both on and off shore, the Village of Balsam Lake is the place for you! The Village is nestled on the largest lake in the area, (2,054 acres), which is teeming with ¿sh to satisfy the most avid of anglers.

The unique shoreline stretches 65 miles and the lake is dotted with picturesque islands and bays. Fine Dining and casual eateries abound and over 50 businesses provide a vast array of services.

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THE LAKER | MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022

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THE LAKER | MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022

L KER SECTION B

Vol. 2022 • No. 1 • May 13 to June 2, 2022

April Ziemer | Laker Public access is available at a landing located off of Tanglewood Trail.

LONG LIVE LONG LAKE

By April Ziemer editor@theameryfreepress.com

Situated between Centuria and Balsam Lake, Long Lake is a 273acre oasis for a peaceful day on the water.

If you are looking for one of the less busy lakes in the area, you

have found it.

Visitors have access to the lake from two public boat landings located at the NW side of the lake off of Larsen Lane and at the Sunny Vale access point.

With a maximum depth of 17 feet and an average depth of

11 feet, plentiful fish include panfish (bluegill, sunfish, crappie, pumpkinseed and yellow perch), Largemouth Bass and Northern Pike.

Whether you’re baitcasting, fly fishing or spinning your chances of getting a bite here are good.

According to local fisherman, the prime fishing times on Long Lake are between 4a.m. and 8a.m.

In the past there were issues with tannins, stain from decaying CONTINUED ON 3B

MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022 | THE LAKER

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Port of Call

April Ziemer | Laker Fisherman enjoy sunny days at Long Lake.

April Ziemer | Laker Lacking crowds, Long Lake is perfectly peaceful.

Unity Business Park • 1514 - 190th Ave. in Balsam Lake

715-825-4870

Showroom Open to the Public 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday-Friday E-mail: NCS@lakeland.ws www.nelsonconstrucctionservices.com

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THE LAKER | MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022

Port of Call matter. Tannins are natural and not a result of pollution.

Tannins can be distinguished from suspended sediment because the water, even though it's brown, it looks clear, like tea. Though tannins are not harmful per se, they are often not perceived as aesthetically pleasing as clear water. Tannins can also be important for decreasing light penetration into the water and decreasing algal growth.

Colton Sorensen, Water Quality Specialist for the Polk County Land and Water Resource Department, shared Long Lake has completed an Alum treatment which is intended to treat internal loading (the release of phosphorous from sediments within lakes). The results of the Alum treatment have made a big difference on the lake, it reduced the amount of algae, reduced the frequency of blooms, and the water is much clearer. ■

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Map art: Karen Engelbretson May, 2022

Track your electricity use Manage your electric account View and pay your electric bill View and report power outages

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TOPOGRAPHIC SYMBOLS Marsh Submergent vegetation Emergent vegetation Floating vegetation Steep slope Public Access LAKE BOTTOM SYMBOLS GR Gravel MK Muck R Rubble SD Sand

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Town of Balsam Lake, Town of St. Croix Falls Polk County, Wisconsin

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SPECIES OF FISH PRESENT X Northern Pike X Largemouth Bass X Panfish

For over 39 years

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Riggings

CHALK IT UP TO THE DOCK BOYS

By April Ziemer editor@theameryfreepress.com

Take one part entrepreneurship, mix in a combination of extremely hard work and remarkable team work and you have the successful business known as Dock Boys.

When Dylan Johnson was a senior at Amery High School in March of 2017, he and his friends were working on a science project together and started to procrastinate. Their procrastination led to a conversation about ways they could pay for college. Once that ball was rolling, Johnson had the idea to install docks and lifts and that they could call themselves the “dock boys.” Johnson said, “We laughed together at this. It almost started off as a joke when I was making the Facebook page at 11:00p.m. that night. Then the next day at school we kept the joke going and printed off flyers and started going door to door on Lake Wapogasset/Bear Trap.”

It then got serious when their first customer, Fred Norenberg, gave them a call for dock installation. “I remember us laughing together thinking, ‘Wow this could actually work out for us,” he said. That year Dock Boys did seven dock installation jobs and are still taking care of all of their dock needs to this day six years later.

Dock Boys specialize in dock, boat lift and track system installation. “Additionally, we assemble new boat lifts for customers at Warner's dock, transfer docks, boat lifts, and track systems from customer to customer,

Does Your

HOME OR CABIN Need a New Basement?

Contributed The team at the Dock Boys can assist with tackling many of your lakeside projects.

even floating them across water. We also do light repairs on docks, boat lifts, and track systems. That’s not all though, we also do exterior staining of decks and houses during the summer,” Johnson said.

Depending on the dock installation day, they have a crew size of 8-12 men. In total Dock Boys have 12 employees. Johnson said, “Every one of the guys on the crew has a valuable position that makes them a dock specialist. We’ve got it all figured out almost like an artform of how to efficiently install or remove docks, boat lifts, and track systems.”

Thus far, the group has worked from Bass Lake in New Richmond through Balsam Lake.

“Our bread and butter region would be Lake Wapo and Bear Trap,” said Johnson.

Although the team at Dock Boys encourage readers to save their backs and hire them, their biggest tip for those who are working with their docks themselves, is to go slow and think about how you can use your muscles less. Pry bars, ramps, wheels, floating systems, winches, and jacks are the tools CONTINUED ON 5B

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THE LAKER | MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022

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Riggings DOCK BOYS | FROM 4B you’d need to do a job yourself.

Johnson said, “We’d like to thank all of our friends across the lakes and rivers for helping us build the business to where we are

at today. We’ve enjoyed coming back on the weekends from college to provide the best dock service possible. We look forward to our future of Dock Boys as we

grow in the services we provide and the people we meet along the way.”

Dock Boys can be reached via call or text at (715) 554-4465. You

can also find more information at www.dockboysllc.com. ■

Fiberglass & Aluminium Repair Specialists

Contributed A before and after look at deck staining services offered by the Dock Boys.

MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022 | THE LAKER

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THE LAKER | MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022

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Licensed and insured in WI & MN

Fishery

Galley

THE YELLOW PERCH ARE CALLING

COOKING BY THE LAKE From surf to turf, lakeside recipes you’ll love

By April Ziemer

By April Ziemer

editor@theameryfreepress.com

editor@theameryfreepress.com

Abundant in the lakes of Polk County and quick to bite, Yellow Perch are feisty little panfish that provide fun fishing for novice and experienced anglers alike.

Yellow perch are easy to catch, and they are also considered some of the tastiest fish in fresh water.

Because they congregate in such great schools throughout most of year, catching enough for a meal is seldom a challenge.

Yellow perch have a stocky torpedo shaped body. They are pale yellow to bright orange with 6-7 dark, vertical bars on their side. Their mouth is small and points forward. One of the sure signs that you’ve caught a perch is that their dorsal fin is made up of two parts, divided by a space. The front portion is spiny and rear portion softrayed. Perch have two spines in their anal fin and a forked tail.

Young of the year yellow perch (those that hatch out in any given spring) feed on zooplankton, and then as they grow, they switch to benthic macroinvertebrates and finally fish. Yellow perch swallow their food whole. An esophagus, the tube between the mouth and stomach, is

Contributed A freshly caught Yellow Perch.

flexible. A fish esophagus usually can handle anything that fits into the fish’s mouth.

It can even adjust midswallow—just in case the fish eats something that happens to be considerably larger than it.

Female yellow perch mature between two to four years old, males usually mature one year earlier. Spawning takes place in the spring (April through early May) when the water temperature reaches 45 - 52°F. The average female will lay approximately 23,000 eggs. After deposition the eggs rapidly swell and harden.

Eggs hatch in 8 -10 days and the emerging fish are 4-7 mm in length.

To catch yellow perch, use a light action fishing rod spooled with 4-6 lb. test line.

While a basic hook will work fine, you can also try spinner rigs, beetle spinner, small jigs,

and curly-tail grub worms.

Jigs, flies & live bait work well at night in vegetation and off bottom or during the day in open water. Live bait such as nightcrawlers, red worms, crayfish, shiners, or fathead (crappie) minnows can increase your success.

When landing a yellow perch, smooth down the spines of the dorsal fin from nose to tail much like you would handle a sunfish.

On average, a yellow perch typically reaches peak swimming speeds of over 12 mph.

Yellow perch are relatively short-lived fish, few over seven years old are ever caught.

The biggest yellow perch ever caught in Wisconsin was 15 inches long. It was caught on Lake Hallie in Chippewa County on May 12, 2020. ■

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There are more than 130 species of perch in North America alone, which leads to tons of delicious perch recipes.

This delectable fish comes in yellow, white, and black lake varieties, as well as ocean species.

It has been said, one of the tastiest fish is the yellow lake perch.

Tender and moist, yellow perch is said to be one of the most flavorful for pan-frying, it also happens to be the type of perch found in many Polk County lakes.

Bratwurst, often shortened to "brat”, is a common type of sausage in Wisconsin, where the largest ancestry group is German, is known for its bratwursts.

Bratwurst was popularized Contributed in Sheboygan Brats on the grill.

County, Wisconsin, in the 1920s. In general, each local butcher shop would take orders and hand make bratwurst fresh to be picked up on a particular day. The fat content of the sausages was substantial, making daily pick up necessary at that time to avoid spoilage; some of the fat is lost on cooking over charcoal.

CONTINUED ON 11B

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715-554-7009 Located at: 311 West Main St., Balsam Lake MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022 | THE LAKER

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104 First Avenue East & Cty. Rd. I, Balsam Lake • 715-614-1569

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Daily Specials Happy Hour • Monday-Friday 4-6pm Catering Available Dine in or Carry out available

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Fri. & Sat. 10 a.m. - 2:30 a.m.

Sun. 10 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Hours: Sun-Thu 8am-close • Fri-Sat 7am-close Kitchen Hours: Sun-Thru 8am-9pm • Fri-Sat 7am-10pm

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JEFF’S BLACKSMITH SHOP BAR & GRILL New Menu

Sports Bar

Happy Hour M-F 4-6pm • Meat RaІe Sat @ 3pm Hours: Mon at 4pm till close • Tue-Sat 11am till close

BINGO: Every Thursday, 6 p.m.

HAPPY HOUR: Monday - Friday, 4-6 p.m.

KARAOKE: Fridays & Saturdays, 9 p.m. - 2 a.m.

NEW OUTDOOR BAR & PATIO SEATING 1873 W Bone Lake Dr, Balsam Lake • 715-857-5679

MAIN STREET • CENTURIA • (715) 646-2558

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THE LAKER | MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022

• • • •

Breakfast Served All Day Full Menu Take Outs Available Friday Fish Fry starts at 11am

715-948-2975

764 Hwy 63 • Clayton, WI

RESTAURANT

Galley RECIPES | FROM 9B Bacon Wrapped Perch • 1 lb perch fillets cleaned, skin-on • 1/2 lb bacon • 1 cup cherry tomatoes - halved • 1/2 tsp pepper • 1/2 lemon juice • avocado oil for spritzing fish basket Preheat charcoal or gas BBQ to about medium heat.

Season all of the perch with pepper and lemon juice. Wrap each perch fillet in one piece of bacon, putting a 2-3 cherry tomatoes inside each parcel. Place each bacon perch parcel in an avocado oiled fish basket.

Place fish on indirect heat for 8-10 minutes per side. For charcoal BBQ, move charcoals to one side and place fish on the opposite side for indirect heat. Using a gas grill, preheat both sides, turn one side to lowest setting and place fish on the low side.

Once off the heat, season with a spritz of lemon juice.

Brown Butter Perch The key to this recipe is getting the butter to

a perfect nutty brown. When butter is toasted like this, it gives the perch a unique flavor you do not usually find in fried fish.

• 1 cup flour • 1 teaspoon salt • ½ teaspoon finely ground black pepper • ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper • 8 ounces fresh perch fillets • 2 tablespoons butter • 1 lemon, cut in half Whisk flour, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper in a bowl. Gently press perch fillets into flour mixture to coat, shaking off any excess flour.

Heat butter in a skillet over medium heat until butter is foaming and nut-brown in color.

Working in batches, place filets in skillet and cook until light golden, about 2 minutes per side. Transfer cooked fillets to a plate, squeeze lemon juice over the top, and serve.

Honey Mustard Beer Brats • • •

10 fresh bratwurst sausages 1 green bell pepper, sliced into long strips 1 red bell pepper, sliced into long strips

•

1 large sweet onion, sliced into rings and separated • 2 cloves garlic, sliced • 2 bay leaves • 1 teaspoon liquid smoke flavoring • 2 cups honey mustard barbecue sauce • 1 (12 fluid ounce) can beer, or as needed • 10 hoagie rolls, split lengthwise Place half of the bratwurst in the bottom of a 5-quart slow cooker. Arrange half of the green pepper, red pepper, and onion over them. Layer the remaining bratwurst over the top, and top with the remaining red and green bell peppers and onion. Throw in the garlic and bay leaves. In a separate bowl, mix together HALF of the honey mustard sauce, liquid smoke and beer. Pour into the slow cooker. Add more beer if necessary, to cover everything in the pot. Cover, and cook on Low for 4 to 5 hours.

Preheat an outdoor grill for high heat, and lightly oil grate. Remove bratwurst from the slow cooker but leave onions and peppers inside. Place bratwurst on the grill and baste CONTINUED ON 2C

Fishers of Men First Lutheran Church

All Are Welcome to Worship with Us! Sundays: Worship 10:15 a.m. • Coffee Fellowship 9:30 a.m.

Pastor Laurie Kenyon Woods

240 W. Elm St. • Amery

Tim Bjorge, Pastor Sundays: 9:00 am Worship

1115 Mains Crossing Ave. • Amery, WI 715-268-9291 • www.balsamlutheranchurch.org

East Balsam Baptist Church

Georgetown Lutheran Church Sunday Services 10:30 am

Sunday Worship 9:00 A.M.

or join us for worship Sundays at 10:30 a.m.

Join us in person or online at www.eastbalsam.org 715-857-5411 contact@eastbalsam.org

1816 - 108th St./Co. Rd. I Balsam Lake, WI

Fully Accessible

Come & Worship With Us

Faith Lutheran Church Sunday Worship 9:30 am

Pastor Diane Norstad 715-485-3800 County Road I and Mill Street, Balsam Lake

A hearty Welcome - Come as you are!

uploaded to YouTube or Facebook page: https:/www.Facebook.com/ Georgetown.Church

715-857-5580 887 190th Ave., Co. Rd. G Balsam Lake, WI 54810 East of Milltown & Balsam Lake Communion Every Sunday Pastor Diane House • Fully Accessible www.georgetownlutheran.net

St. Croix Valley

CHURCH OF CHRIST

Sundays: Bible Class 10:00 a.m. – Worship 11:00 a.m.

Evening Worship 6:00 p.m.

Wednesdays: Bible Class 6:00 p.m.

2245 County Road T (Stanton Town Hall) Deer Park, WI 54007 www.stcroixvalley.churchofchrist.info

Join us on Zoom! For more‫ݒ‬info, contact Eric at 715-431-0053

Weekly Live Stream on Facebook: FirstLutheranChurchofAmeryWI

715-268-7135 • www.flcamery.org

LUCK LUTHERAN CHURCH

Sunday Services 9:30 a.m.

715-472-2605 510 Foster Avenue East, Luck Pastor Greg Ofsdahl llcpastor@lakeland.ws www.lucklutheran.org

Special Monday Summer Services June 13 – Sundaes on Monday June 27 – Worship on the Water July 11 – Sundaes on Monday August 8 – ATV Worship August 22 – Sundaes on Monday

“Opening Doors of Faith For All People”

Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church 507 Main Street Balsam Lake (715) 405-2245

Saturday Mass 6:00 p.m.

Sunday Mass 8:30 a.m.

St. Joseph Catholic Church 1050 Keller Ave. N. Amery (715) 268-7717

Saturday Mass 4:00 p.m.

Sunday Mass 10:30 a.m.

MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022 | THE LAKER

11B

JOIN US ON THE PATIO W kly TUESDAYS Joker’s Wild 5-8 pm

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SUNDAYS

5/20 - County Line

6/3 - Shane Martin

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5/21 - PERFECT KRIME

6/4 - Legacy of the Loud

5/22 - Rich Schroeder

6/5 - Cover 2 Cover

5/27 - Rhino

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6/10 - Varsity Rejects

5/29 - Shirts & Skins

6/11 - Second 2 None

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Take out & curbside also available! Grill open late. Check us out on Faceb k!

Open Daily at 11 a.m. • 1301-105th Ave (County Rd C) • Amery 715-268-8572 12B

THE LAKER | MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022

L KER SECTION C

Vol. 2022 • No. 1 • May 13 to June 2, 2022

April Ziemer | Laker A variety of offerings are available at Polk County Farmers Markets.

FARMERS MARKETS: offering the freshest and finest lakeside cooking ingredients

By April Ziemer editor@theameryfreepress.com

In an essay entitled “How to stay happy” the following advice was given: drink good tea each morning, sit in the fresh air, swim in lakes and wade in streams, work hard at both what you love and what you hate and lastly; eat food from farmers markets.

Great cooking is about being inspired by the simple things around you available at fresh markets. It doesn't necessarily have to look fancy to be delicious.

Polk County offers several Farmers Markets that offer local, fresh ingredients perfect for

lakeside meals. Local markets include: Amery’s Farmer Market: Mondays 3p.m.6p.m. and Saturdays 9a.m.-Noon at Soo Line Park in downtown Amery Balsam Lake Farmers Market: Fridays 3p.m.5p.m. at Lady of the Lake Catholic Church, 507 West Main. Street Osceola Farmers Market: Fridays 2p.m.6p.m. Located at 306 River Street in Osceola St. Croix Falls Farmers Market: Saturdays 10a.m.-1p.m. in downtown St. Croix Falls at 203 Washington Street You know what they say, “Keep your friends close and your farmers closer.” Farmers'

markets are one of the oldest forms of direct marketing by small farmers. From the traditional "mercados" in the Peruvian Andes to the unique street markets in Asia, growers all over the world gather weekly to sell their produce directly to the public. In the last few decades, they have become a favorite marketing method for many farmers throughout the United States and a weekly ritual for many shoppers.

Shopping at a farmers' market is a great way to meet local farmers and get fresh, flavorful, CONTINUED ON 2C

MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022 | THE LAKER

1C

Galley RECIPES | FROM 11B

FARMERS MARKETS | FROM 1C

with some of the remaining honey mustard sauce. Turn occasionally until slightly charred.

Place bratwurst on rolls and use tongs to pull out a few of the onions and peppers from the slow cooker and drape them over the sausage.

locally produced foods.

World renowned Chef Jose Andres has said, “Look at our farmers markets today, bursting with heritage breeds and heirloom varieties, foods that were once abundant when we were an agricultural nation, but that we have lost touch with. Bringing all these back helps us connect to our roots, our communities and helps us feed America the proper way.”

Organizers of local Farmers Markets have been working hard to ensure a variety of vendors piques the interest of all those who frequent the markets. The summer of 2022 sees expanded local Farmers markets featuring many new vendors as well as returning favorites.

Offerings of proteins, produce, specialty products and smiles are bound April Ziemer | Laker to keep you coming Shoppers snatch up produce at a Saturday Farmers Market in Amery. back. ■

Grilled Bratwurst with Brie and Spiral Apple Slaw • • • • • • • • •

4 bratwurst, about 4 ounces each 4 pretzel hotdog buns, split Melted butter, for brushing 6 ounces Brie, thinly sliced 2 tablespoons cider vinegar 1 tablespoon honey 2 teaspoons grainy mustard 1/2 teaspoon dried dill Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper • 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil • 2 crisp apples (like Fuji or Honeycrisp), unpeeled • 1 extra-large carrot, peeled • 3 scallions, thinly sliced For the bratwurst: Prepare a gas grill for medium-high heat. Grill the bratwurst until cooked through (160 degrees F on an instant-read thermometer), turning once, 20 to 25 minutes.

For the slaw: Meanwhile, in a large bowl, whisk together the vinegar, honey, mustard, dill, 1/2 teaspoon salt and a generous grinding of black pepper. Whisk in the olive oil to make a dressing.

With a spiral slicer, cut the apples and carrot into spirals; add to the dressing. Add the scallions and toss well. Refrigerate the slaw until ready to serve.

When the brats are nearly finished cooking, brush the cut sides of the pretzel buns lightly with melted butter and grill, cutside down, on the upper shelf until crisp at the edges, 1 to 2 minutes. Turn the buns cut-side up and top with the sliced brie; grill until the brie just begins to melt, about 1 minute.

Serve the bratwurst on the buns, topped with slaw. Serve any extra slaw on the side.

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Ropes

‘NO MOW MAY’ GROWS THROUGHOUT WISCONSIN

By April Ziemer editor@theameryfreepress.com

While perfectly manicured lawns are quite appealing to the eye, there is a movement gaining speed across Wisconsin for yards to have a more shag carpet look-at least for a month-it is called ‘No Mow May.’ The title is pretty self-explanatory -- you let the lawn grow freely during the entire month of May. Keep the lawnmower in the shed. It’s ecologically beneficial and you can save yourself mowing time for 31 days.

The idea is to give homeowners the option of letting their lawns get a bit overgrown for a few weeks to ensure that bees that are coming out of hibernation have plenty of options for the nectar and pollen they need.

Avoiding regular mowing during May promotes the maturation of flowering plants such as dandelions, violets, clover and creeping Charlie, which provide food for bees and other pollinators early in the growing season.

People often think of dandelions and clovers that can grow in lawns like weeds, but pollinators love those flowering plants.

Lawns typically provide poor habitat for bees. But if allowed to flower, lawn weeds — perhaps better characterized as plants other than grass — can provide rare spring food for bees emerging from hibernation.

Metro Creative Connection Bees feasting on flowers.

No Mow May was first adopted in Appleton, WI. in 2020 and is spreading across the state and beyond. Appleton was the lone city to participate the first year.

Other participants now include La Crosse, Green Bay, Oshkosh, Stevens Point, Wausua, Cross Plains, De Pere, Egg Harbor, Fort Atkinson, Fox Crossing, Greenfield, Hortonville, Kaukauna, Medford, New Holstein, Rib

Mountain, Rockland, Sun Prairie, Superior, Verona and Wisconsin Rapids.

The expansion didn’t stop at the state border as there is participation in cities such as Edina, Minnesota, and Rochester, New York.

Israel Del Toro, an Appleton biology professor discovered the concept of a No-Mow May from an environmentalist group in the

United Kingdom and he was the driving force behind Appleton's pioneering initiative.

There are many factors that are hurting bee populations including climate change and irresponsible uses of pesticides and herbicides.

Studies have shown steep declines in wild bee populations in the 21st century. It's a serious enough problem that the United Nations characterizes it as a threat to the global food supply.

In 2020, a sampling of No Mow May lawns in Appleton found a fivefold increase in bee abundance and a threefold increase in bee diversity compared to nearby parkland that was mowed regularly.

Not everyone is allowed to freely participate in the No Mow May initiative. Some cities, like Neenah, WI. For example, have codes enforcing grass and weeds to 8 inches or lower.

Appleton, like Neenah, has an ordinance that restricts the height of grass and on developed lots, but under No Mow May, the city suspends enforcement of the rules until June 1. Participation in No Mow May is voluntary.

Approximately 450 participants registered the first year and 2,500 registered the second year.

Organizers said they wouldn't be surprised if it doubled across the state and beyond. ■

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715-483-3229

715.268.6262 1361 100th St, Amery

WHETHER BIG OR SMALL, ALL OCCASIONS ARE SPECIAL OCCASIONS Our Event Center is the largest facility of its kind in the area. It provides the community with a gathering place for parties, banquets, weddings, dances, and live entertainment.

Weekly Specials Thursdays – Coming soon!

Friday Night Fish Fry Buffet – AYCE $16.99 serving 4-9pm

OPEN Monday-Wednesday Closed Thursday - New Hours Coming Soon Friday 4:00 PM to Close Saturday 11:00 AM to Close Sunday 11:00 AM to 9:00 PM

Saturday – 50+ Burger Baskets $8.99 serving 11-9pm Sunday Brunch Buffet – AYCE $17.99 adults, $16.99 65 and up, $9.99 kids, 5 and under free

Visit our Facebook Page for more information on Specials, Meat Raffles and More!

MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022 | THE LAKER

5C

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BEFORE YOU BOAT-PREPARE TO STAY AFLOAT Life Jackets save lives

By April Ziemer editor@theameryfreepress.com

According to the U.S. Coast Guard, drowning is the top cause of death in most recreational boating fatalities, and the majority of those who drowned were not wearing life jackets. In 2019, 79% of fatal boating accident victims drowned. Most people who drown in boating accidents know how to swim but become incapacitated in the water.

Known for its many lakes and waterways, Wisconsin is where boaters and paddlers can get close to nature and have fun. Make sure safety is part of the plan.

Natural bodies of water are very different from pools. The water may be cold; there are wakes that can quickly carry you away; or there may be hidden underwater hazards, such as submerged trees and sudden drop offs. Even strong swimmers have needed to be rescued or even drowned because they were overcome by the water.

Having a life jacket available can most certainly save your life.

There are 3 basic kinds of life

jackets that can be selected for your activity and swimming skill level. It is important to understand the types of jackets and when they should be used: • Inherently Buoyant (Primarily Foam): These lowmaintenance life jackets are both comfortable and reliable and come in wearable and throwable fashions.They are designed for swimmers and non-swimmers, and come in Adult, Youth, Child and Infant sizes.

• Inflatable: Inflatable life jackets are lightweight and comfortable to wear.

They are only available in wearable, Adult sizes. This kind of flotation should NOT be worn by poor or nonswimmers.

• Hybrid (Foam and Inflation): These reliable jackets are available in Adult, Youth, Child and Infant sizes and wearable styles. They are recommended for both swimmers and nonswimmers, and some are

designed for water sports.

Today’s life jackets are much more advanced than they used to be. You can find comfortable, lightweight, and stylish options at your local marine supply retailer or even online. Many people don't realize the variety of new life jackets that are on the market today--belt packs and other jackets that are low profile, lightweight, easy to move in, and come in many sizes, styles and shapes for every person and every sport.

There are even ones for pets!

All life jackets must be: •

In good and serviceable condition, which means no tears, rips, broken straps or snaps; • Readily accessible, which means you can put the life jacket on quickly in an emergency; • Of the proper size for the intended wearer. Sizing for life jackets is based on body weight and chest size.

Try on and test the fit of your life jacket. Your life jacket should

fit comfortably snug. To quickly check the fit, fasten and secure all of the straps and raise your arms.

Your vest should stay and not ride up. You can also have someone lift the jacket up at your shoulders; it should not go above your ears.

Be prepared for an emergency.

Choose a brightly-colored life jacket that is highly visible and easy for others to spot. It is also a good idea to attach a whistle and an emergency light to your vest, just in case you accidentally fall into the water or get caught in the current. It could help search and rescuers find you.

Life jackets are required for boating. In the State of Wisconsin, a number of water safety laws were passed to improve the use of life jackets and prevent drowning: • Children 13 years old and younger must wear a life jacket that fits them on moving boats on coastal waters.

• Recreational boats must carry one U.S. Coast Guardapproved life jacket for each person aboard. ■

Off the Top

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SALES & SERVICE. SPECIALIZING IN OUTBOARD & INBOARD MOTORS.

SOUTHBAY PONTOONS YAMAHA & MERCURY MOTORS LUND & CRESTLINER BOATS PIER PLEASURE DOCKS & LIFTS

FOAM WATERMATS Boat Accessories and Engine Parts

Boat Bumpers

Towables

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Water Ski Ropes

Interstate Batteries

1956 Highway 8, St. Croix Falls 715-483-2880 www.arrowmarineon8.com

INDOOR STORAGE PONTOON REFURBISHING

Business Hours: Mon-Fri 10am-6pm; Sat. 8am-3pm; Sun. Noon-4pm Terry Peer, Owner

ROYAL FLUSH PLUMBING & HEATING, LLC YOUR LOCAL, TRUSTED, LICENSED AND INSURED PLUMBING & HEATING CONTRACTOR

Plumbing • HVAC • Sewers • Soil Testing

715-268-6565

www.royalflushpandh.com THE BEST “HAND” YOU CAN GET

KEMIS CARPET & FLOORING Carpet, Vinyl, Solid Wood, Engineered Wood, Luxury Vinyl, Sheet Vinyl, Vinyl Tile

Residential & Commercial Showroom Hours: Fri 2-7 pm • Sat 8am-1 pm

Call Rick for an Appointment or Home Showing

715-553-0843 715-825-3591

Serving Polk County for over 45 years 104 2nd Avenue & Hwy 35 • Milltown MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022 | THE LAKER

7C

OPEN HOUSE Saturday, May 28 11am-2pm

“Installing & Maintaining Sustainable Landscapes”

Landscape Services • Boathouses • Firepits & Patios • Landscape Lighting • Master Plan Design • Outdoor Structures • Rain Gardens • Retaining Walls & Steps • Shoreline Restoration • Water Features • Turf Installation

Property Maintenance • Irrigation

Retail Products

• Mowing

• Huge Selection of: Perennials Annuals Trees Shrubs

• Fall/Spring Cleanup

• Landscape Materials

• Fertilization

• Garden Center

• Weed Control

• Floral Arrangements

• Winter Services

• Wood-Fired Brick Oven

• Enhancement Crew • Lawncare Services

OPEN HOUSE Saturday, May 28 11am-2pm Join us for Food from the Grill and Greenhouse Specials

916 BADGER DRIVE • BALSAM LAKE • 715-485-3131 • 888-374-8894 May and June Hours: Monday-Friday 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 pm.; Saturday 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.; Sunday 10:00 a.m. - 2 p.m.

8C

THE LAKER | MAY 13 - JUNE 2, 2022