Laker 5 - July 21, 2023

Port of Call | Page 3A

HALF MOON LAKE

How are you already holding Laker #5 in your hands?

Laker #5 out of seven, means you should be still taking in your fair share of strawberries, popsicles, lemonade, toes in fresh cut grass, swimming and gazing at starry skies

This Laker sets sail on Half Moon and Horse Lakes.

Port of Call | Page 2B

Crew Members | Page 4A

JACK NOVAK

Fishery | Page 6A PERCH

Galley | Page 12A

RECIPES

Fishers of Men | Page 14A

CHURCHES

Ropes | Page 8B

Shore Leave | Page 2C

FAWN-DOEROSA

Riggings | Page 11C

LIFE JACKET

You will smile reading tales from Jack Novak, get schooled on perch, be ready to rock griddle recipes and see why the winter on Polk County lakes might not be so bad after all! You will also get the scoop on the family of FAWN-DOE-ROSA!

You know what they say, “Stay close to the serenity of a lake to meet your own peace of mind.”

The 2023 publication dates are:

Laker #1 – Friday, May 19

Laker #2 – Friday, June 9

Laker #3 – Friday, June 23

Laker #4 – Friday, July 7

Laker #5 – Friday, July 21

Laker #6 – Friday, August 11

Laker #7 – Friday, August 25

Enjoy your Laker and your summer!

April Ziemer, Editor editor@theameryfreepress.com

HALF MOON LAKE–IF ONLY THESE WATERS COULD TALK

By April Ziemer editor@theameryfreepress.com

Rich with history Half Moon Lake if FULL of stories. The tales that could be told by the gentle waves brushing up against the shores of Oscar Lane, Breezy Bay and County Road G would probably give away many secrets of summers past.

Half Moon Lake is a clear, spring-fed wonderland of nearly 570 acres. In fact, a test of the Half Moon Lake water in 1972 revealed the bacteria count was so low it approached drinking water standards!

The lake is conveniently situated not far from Balsam Lake, Milltown or Luck. It has a maximum depth of 60 feet, with a mean depth of 25 feet and features Walleye, Bass, Northern Pike and panfish. On any given day you will find paddle boarders, skiers, kayakers, canoers, pontoons and boaters.

Cherished activities throughout the years have included July 4th fireworks, boat parades and “Loon Ladies” sales.

The lake has one public beach on the south side of the lake and one public boat access.

Speaking of beaches, in the 1920s-1930s, Sandy Beach Sandy Beach, which is now Township of Milltown beach and public landing, was privately owned by Herman and Blanche Gutzmer. It was a popular weekend destination. Hundreds spent weekend afternoons fishing from rented boats, they swam, and soaked up the sun while meeting new lakeside friends. The beach house contained a concession stand selling pop and

candy. The beach, which cost a quarter to use, sported a 10-foot diving tower and a 20-foot slide. The slide had a pump at the top so with a squeeze on the pump water ran down the slide

making it slippery.

Arm floaties could be rented for ten cents. Woolen swimsuits could also be rented as well as lockers for storing clothing.

The Gutzmers could not hear or speak but communication with them was easy using hand signals and by writing on tablets. Mr. Gutzmer also sold freshly caught lake fish to fishermen who failed to catch their own.

When the Gutzmers passed away the beach was sold to Herb Anderson, a gentleman from Kentucky. Douglas Voss had permission from Anderson to swim at the beach. He kept it free from weeds by hitching a scoop to a horse and riding the horse back and forth, collecting weeds. Once he accidentally rode the horse over the drop off and had a very tense time getting back to where the horse had footing.

Around 1944 Anderson sold the beach property to Milltown and since, it has been a public swimming and picnic area.

According to the Memories of Half Moon Lake Booklet by Martha McMahon, Ruth McMahons kept a history of her families' summers at Half Moon Lake, beginning in 1936.

She depicted a very simple life in the early days. They cooked and heated with a wood stove, washed clothes in the lake, bought milk from the Munson or Lundsmen farms and brought it home still warm in Mason jars. They bought their ice from Oscar Johnson's ice house that he filled each winter with ice harvested from the lake. They also hauled their water from Oscar's well until Mr. Munson dug them a 30 foot well. Ruth remembered the Half Moon Dance Hall, which burned in the 1940s. She recorded receiving electricity in SEE 8A

MEET JACK NOVAK

Jack Novak has a heart for Balsam Lake and an uncanny way of sharing lake stories from his past that many can find relatable.

Jack shares with Laker readers how he came to call Balsam Lake home:

Back in 1957, I was 14, my mom and dad built a cabin on East Balsam Lake. We

lived at the cabin on summer weekends until about 1965. I got married that year and by 1968 I had 2 sons. After my kids became adults, their stepmom and I moved to Las Vegas for work in 1991. Both of my sons stayed in Minnesota most of that time. In 2012, I rented a cabin and a pontoon boat on Balsam and invited both of

my sons to join me for about a week of fishing. On the last day of our trip, one of my sons said "Dad, if you two moved back here, we could spend a lot more time together doing stuff like this." They then drove back home. That's all it took. I melted inside.

That afternoon, I told them to go fishing and I would join

them later. I had work to take care of on my computer. So, they both took off and fished most of the rest of that day without me. In the meantime, once I knew they were out of sight, I jumped in my rental car and drove into town looking tor homes for sale that would fit into my budget. I found several.

I immediately called my wife

back in Vegas and with no hesitation whatsoever, I told her what just happened, asked her to get on the very next plane, get her sister or a friend to drive her from the Twin Cities Airport to the grocery store in Balsam Lake. (Both of us grew up in St. Paul so we had many friends and relatives there who also were coaxing

us to move back home.) I met her at the store about 3:00 p.m. the next day. We looked at the houses I had visited and without question, we bought one and moved into our present home two months later, on October 12, 2012. A few months later, our home in Las Vegas sold. We have now been in this same home for almost 11 years. I look forward this summer for more fishing on Balsam with my wife and my family. I have no regrets whatsoever. That's what brought me to Balsam Lake.

We hope you enjoy the following short stories written by Jack Novak inspired by his lake experiences:

Willow sticks find drinking water at Balsam Lake

In the early summer of 1957, my parents and our next-door neighbor friends in Saint Paul decided to buy a 200-foot lake lot on the West shore of East Balsam, on the condition that good drinking water could be found on the site.

The first thing the two dads did was to ask Al Hackenson,“Old Hackey,” the seller, where they could dig a well on that property and get good drinking water.“Hackey” gave them an address and told them to go visit the old “water witch” guy in Milltown. The next weekend, the “water witch” showed up on the property with his Willow stick. All of us kids laughed and snickered when we saw him because we didn’t believe this could possibly work. But we were all eyes and ears to watch a REAL witch at work. The two dads and moms exchanged pleasantries (and hopes) with the “water witch”. But he just smiled, didn’t say a word and proceeded to hold the Y shaped stick by both thin branches, palm side of his hands up, stick base pointing straight ahead and slightly towards the ground, allowing the stick to move freely if it detected water. He then walked very slowly up and down a portion of the Southern border of the large lot, holding the Willow stick with a very lose grip. He told us kids

to be very silent. We could hear the twigs breaking with each footstep that he took. I was just 14 years old and was in aww while being mesmerized by the unbelievable, real “water witch” guy. Fortunately, I had a small camera with me, and I took this picture of him right as The Willow stick abruptly pointed directly straight down to the ground. The drilling company showed up the next weekend. Thankfully, the drilling was successful, so construction began.

The two dads began chopping down the minimal number of trees to make way for the future cabins, the moms prepared a much-deserved big lunch for all and we the kids began to clear the brush. It was truly a family affair for both moms and dads. The land was formerly used as cattle grazing ground by “Hackey” and no other cabins existed in the immediate area, except for “Hackey’s” one block to the South and the “Joker’s Wild” site ¾ of a block to the North. The two dads purchased the lake front footage for a total of $4,000.00, or $20.00 per front foot of lake shore. That was a lot of money in those days. Today that would buy about 2 months’ worth of groceries for the two dad’s families of four people each.

I believe that to this very day in June 2023, 66 years later, at least 3 cabins obtain excellent drinking water from that same well. WELL! WELL!

The one I threw back

When I was a kid in the late 1950s, we had a cabin on East Balsam Lake. I was more interested in water skiing, driving the Alumacraft Queen 16, the big boat with the massive Johnson 50 hp motor, and racing other boats, than I was in fishing or going for a walk. I also was not very interested in my dad’s favorite projects: cutting the grass, raking rocks off the beach, cutting weeds, scratching chigger bites, etc.

But then one fine Saturday afternoon in early June 1958, all 3 of our 6-gallon tanks for the boat were empty. Dad would fill them with gas at the 46 Store the next day on our way home from church. We had a 30-gallon drum filled with oil in the boat house, to mix

with all the new tanks of gas. (The current owners of the cabin tell me the drum is still there). Every Sunday he bought gas, and the best plain donuts that money could buy. My brother Jim and I loved that store for those very two reasons. But this late Saturday afternoon, I wanted to go fishing. We also had what we called the “little boat,” a 14-foot aluminum fishing boat with a 10 hp Johnson motor on it. Dad wouldn’t let me use the gas from the “little boat” for the “big boat”. That same “little boat” is in that same old boat house with the same old oil drum that dad had always kept filled. Usually, one of the doors to that old boat house is left open about 2 feet. From my pontoon boat today, I can peek in and see these fond memories come to life again.

Anyhow, while my dad was working on his “projects”, with no time for fishing, my mom, who hated going fishing, took me out in our “little boat”. Bless her heart!! To this day, I can just about pinpoint the spot where we fished 65 years ago.

After about 15 minutes of fishing, and with night crawlers from, you guessed it, the 46 Store, my rod and reel almost flew out of my hands. I was so excited I could hardly breathe. I wound, and I cranked, and cranked and wound some more, and I held the pole as tight as I could, squeezing the handle, between my knees. I started screaming “Mom, get the net, Mom, get the net” as loud and as fast as I could. I had never caught a big fish before. Mom grabbed the net, and she brought in what I thought was about a 15-pound bass. But in hindsight, it was probably a 1 or 2 pounder at best. She said it was too small to mount like a trophy, so I carefully, if not painfully, put him back in the lake. And now, every time I buy night crawlers at that very store, and every time I fish in that spot, I can’t help but think of that day in my life, with my very kind and giving mother. And I often wonder if the next fish I catch there with night crawlers, might just be a cousin to “The One I Threw Back”. ■

LIFE IS JUST BETTER WITH PERCH

By April Ziemer editor@theameryfreepress.com

Perch are found everywhere in Wisconsin and are very popular to catch and eat, this is partially because of the ease of the catch and mainly because of the sweet and nutty taste.

Smaller perch are easily caught, but it takes a veteran fisherman to consistently catch large ones as they can be a bit trickier and more put up a bit more of a fight.

In early spring, keep an eye out for yellow perch spawning, which typically occurs near aquatic plants. These plants are used for cover for the eggs and young. Adult yellow perch average 7 – 12 inches long. Though their size may seem small compared to other sportfish, the yellow perch is still a popular fish due to its flavor.

The perch eats almost anything, but prefers minnows, insect larvae, plankton and worms. They love to eat! Larger perch can reach a length of over

14 inches in inland waters.

You will find yellow perch in most Wisconsin lakes and sometimes the slow backwaters of larger rivers. They like large lakes with fertile warm water. They often eat on the bottom of lakes in a school, so you might catch several at a time. Smaller fish can be caught near shore, while the big ones can be found in 35 feet of water.

Because perch travel in large schools as they feed during the day, commercial catches have historically been possible. They also tend to move nearshore in the spring, making them a favorite catch of shore anglers. Through much of the 20th century, families lined the shore of Lake Michigan in the spring to fish for yellow perch. Because they were easily caught from shore, some refer to them as “the people’s fish.”

Yellow perch tolerate low oxygen levels. They were able to move into

/PolkCountyLaker

HALF MOON LAKE | FROM 3A

1941 and that they had the first Pontoon boat on the lake.

The McMahon book also shared Floyd Risvold is quite knowledgeable about the history of the area. His Grandfather was the Pastor of the North Valley Lutheran Church about seven miles west of Milltown, which was a stagecoach stop in the olden days. Between 1915 and 1920 the congregation would hold picnics on Half Moon Lake. The men would put out fish nets and the congregation would then spend the day fishing, picnicking and holding services. At the end of the day they would haul in the nets and fill wash tubs with fish to take home to eat.

During the early years of the Half Moon community, Native Americans had a sugar bush on Andrew Sandin’s 40 acres. A sugar bush is a stand of maple trees that are tapped for syrup. Every fall, the Native Americans would set up camp and pick cranberries on the South west side of the lake. About 500 would come. The women did the picking. Doug Voss remembers his brother played lacrosse with the Native American children. There was an Indian Mound on the Gutzmer property. It was taken down in the 1930s but arrows and pottery are still to be found in that field belonging to the Voss family according to McMahon’s book. ■

Contributed

Contributed

PERCH | FROM 6A

areas of the Great Lakes that developed poor water quality during the American Industrial Revolution. For example, by 1885, yellow perch were common in southern Lake Michigan and Green Bay where once lake whitefish, lake trout and lake sturgeon made up the largest part of commercial catches. Their abundance and mild taste made yellow perch a mainstay of the traditional Friday night fish fry enjoyed by many Wisconsin families at taverns and churches.

How do you fish for them in the winter? Yellow perch will keep you on your toes by giving you a sensitive nibbly strike, so stay alert. Use a short, stubby pole with a strong line with a sinker to get your bait near the bottom. A lightweight cork bobber on monofilament line will help you detect any light nibbles. Gently jig for perch at 35 feet. For bait, try small, live minnows or weighted ice flies and insect larvae. With

minnows, use No. 10 or 12 hooks.

The heaviest perch caught in Wisconsin was 3 pounds, 4 ounces on Lake Winnebago, in Winnebago County. The

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

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

By April Ziemer editor@theameryfreepress.com

Outdoor griddles are all the rave! Some swear by Blackstones and others prefer

Surf and Turf Quesadillas are like a fancy meal that you can still eat in your comfy clothes.

Extra special because...well...it’s surf and turf.

But no need to take it seriously because it’s served as a quesadilla. And not just any quesadilla because we are making these on the griddle.

Extra yummy and easy to make on the large cooking space.

Outdoor Griddle Surf and Turf Quesadillas

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 pound steak of choice (I used New York Strip) cut into bite size pieces

• 1 Tbsp Worcestershire sauce

• 1 Tbsp garlic paste or minced garlic

• kosher salt, pepper, steak seasoning (optional)

• 1 pound jumbo shrimp peeled and deveined

• 1 Tbsp lemon juice

• 1 Tbsp Old Bay seasoning

• vegetable oil or cooking oil of choice

• 4 large burrito size tortillas

• 4 cups shredded cheese of choice (I used Mexican blend)

• Optional toppings of choice: sour cream salsa, hot sauce

INSTRUCTIONS:

• Put the pieces of steak in a gallon size plastic bag. Add the Worcestershire sauce, garlic, kosher salt, pepper, and steak seasoning (if using). Massage the bag until combined and marinate in the fridge several hours.

• About 10 minutes before cooking these, put the shrimp in a bowl and add the lemon juice and Old Bay. Toss until combined.

• Preheat the griddle to medium heat. Once hot add some oil and the steak. Cook 1 to 2 minutes. Add more oil and the shrimp, cook both the steak and shrimp 2 to 3 more minutes.

• Move the steak and shrimp to one side of the griddle and add more oil to the empty side. Place 2 tortillas flat on the griddle.

• Add some cheese to one side of the tortillas, some steak and shrimp, and more cheese over top. Use hibachi spatulas to fold the empty side of the tortillas over the filling.

• Flip the quesadillas and remove from the griddle once the cheese is melted and tortillas are cooked to your liking. Repeat to make the rest of the quesadillas.

• Serve with toppings of choice such as sour cream, salsa, hot sauce,

Hibachi dinners regardless of whether or not it's in one of the Japanese steakhouse restaurants or in your own home can be amazing! Once you cook it for your family, you will know that there is no need to go out when it is so easy to make!

Hibachi Cooking Oil

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 tablespoon sesame seed oil

• 2 ½ tablespoon olive oil (extra virgin)

• ¼ cup rice cooking wine

• 2 tablespoon soy sauce

INSTRUCTIONS:

• Combine ingredients in a jar or squeeze bottle that you can seal with a lid to shake up the

contents, and for storing any unused portion (if desired).

• Shake container before using to cook hibachi style foods, such as this hibachi steak and shrimp, noodles, rice, vegetables, chicken, or seafood.

Hibachi Steak

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 teaspoon hibachi cooking oil

• 16 oz NY strip or sirloin steak (cut into 1 inch bite size cubes)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 pinch each, salt & pepper (more or less, to taste)

INSTRUCTIONS:

Bring a large skillet or griddle to medium high heat, or bring electric griddle to 360°F

• Add your hibachi cooking oil to the heated skillet. The oil should be shimmering when fully heated.

• Cut steak into bite-size cubes and place into your heated skillet with lemon juice. *It is up to your personal preferences if you want to cut the steak(s) into bite size chunks prior to or after cooking. If you want to cook your strip steak or sirloin as a whole, cook for about 4 minutes on the first side then flip and cook an additional 4 minutes on the second side for medium rare. Remove from heat and allow to rest for 4 minutes before cutting into cubes.

• Cook steak until seared on all sides and done to taste, about 4 minutes. Season with salt and pepper, if desired.

• Serve warm with Hibachi Mustard Sauce.

Hibachi Shrimp

INGREDIENTS:

• 1 teaspoon hibachi cooking oil

• 24 oz shrimp (large, peeled and deveined)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley

(chopped)

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 pinch salt (more or less, to taste)

INSTRUCTIONS:

• Bring a large skillet or griddle to medium high heat, or bring electric griddle to 360°F

• Add your hibachi cooking oil to the heated skillet. Add shrimp, sprinkle with salt, and cook for 2 - 3 minutes on each side. The shrimp should be opaque in appearance when done.

• Remove shrimp and cut into bite-

Contributed

size pieces. Sprinkle with parsley and lemon juice.

• Serve warm with Hibachi Ginger Sauce.

FISHERS OF MEN ◼ ◼ ◼ ◼

First Lutheran Church

240 W. Elm St. • Amery

Tim Bjorge, Pastor

Sundays: 9:00 am Worship

Weekly Live Stream on Facebook: FirstLutheranChurchofAmeryWI 715-268-7135 • www.flcamery.org

Georgetown Lutheran Church

715-857-5580

887 190th Ave., Co. Rd. G Balsam Lake, WI 54810

East of Milltown & Balsam Lake

Pastor Diane Norstad • Fully Accessible

All Are Welcome to Worship with Us!

Sundays: Worship 10:15 a.m. • Coffee Fellowship 9:30 a.m. Pastor Laurie Kenyon Woods

Our Lady of the Lakes Catholic Church

507 Main Street Balsam Lake (715) 405-2245

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

St. Joseph Catholic Church

1050 Keller Ave. N. Amery (715) 268-7717

Saturday Mass 6:00 p.m. Sunday Mass 8:30 a.m.

REDEEMER LUTHERAN - LCMS

Saturday Mass 4:00 p.m. Sunday Mass 10:30 a.m.

Sunday Services 10:30 am www.georgetownlutheran.net

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

LUCK LUTHERAN CHURCH

or join us for worship Sundays at 10:30 a.m. uploaded to YouTube or Facebook page: https:/www.Facebook.com/ Georgetown.Church Communion Every Sunday

DOUG DAVIS,INTERIM PASTOR

Join us for weekly online or in person worship on Sundays at 9:30 a.m. See our Facebook Page.

Sunday Worship 9:30 a.m. 715-472-2605

510 E. Foster Ave., Luck secretarypaula@lakeland.ws www.lucklutheran.org

Co-Interim Pastors: Maggie Isaacson & Mary Ann Bowman

Special Monday Summer Services

June 19 – Boat-in Worship on Big Butternut Lake

July 17 – S’more Campfire Worship

Aug. 21 – ATV Worship on the Trails Call the office for more details!

“Opening Doors of Faith For All People”

Amery’ $

Brought to you by the Amery Community Club with valued partnerships

SHOP BIG • WIN BIGGER

POP. FULL OF FANTASTIC

SHOP BIG • WIN BIGGER Amery’ $

Shop Big in Amery! • 10am-4pm

For every $20 spent at an Amery Community Club (ACC) business, receive a special card for your chance to win a BRAND NEW CAR, a TRIP and other FABULOUS prizes

Food & Beer • 4 pm • Michael Park

Game Time • 5:15 pm • Michael Park

Brought to you by the Amery Community Club with valued partnerships

Services, goods, food and drink, ANYTHING (legally allowed per type of trade) from an ACC business-Spend $20 and get a card.

Grab your lawn chairs...food trucks and a beer stand will be waiting for those with cards collected throughout the day to register to play “Amery’s Price is Right”.

Spectacular Showcase Showdown Sponsors:

The Chevrolet dealer for Amery. We believe that our customers are as special as our cars, so we take car shopping to a whole new level. Stop in and meet our friendly staff.

Glamorous Game Giver:

Bringing you PLINKO!

Serving the Amery, Clayton and Clear Lake area since 1892. Published on Tuesdays, the Free Press is a tireless promoter of life in beautiful southern Polk County.

The first five contestants will be called to “Come on down!” to bid on actual products from Amery stores. The closest bidder will play a Price is Right type game. Games will be followed by spins of the big wheel, and the show will end with the famous showcase showdown.

Breathtaking Big Wheel Sponsor:

Visit our old public school house, now bar, grill & event center in Amery, for a quick bite, date night, or a fun night out.

Show Supporters:

Thinking about buying or selling a home? Our team will guide you through the whole real estate process and help you discover an amazing house to call home. NorthwestCommunications www.nwcomm.net .nwcomm.net

Thank You also to Amery Lamperts, JETA Electric, Polk-Burnett and several

or TO LEARN MORE ABOUT THIS EVENT, OTHER AMERY EVENTS or ABOUT AMERY COMMUNITY CLUB BUSINESSES, VISIT

“Come on Down” Donors:

L KER

SECTION B

Half Moon Lake

Acres: 579

Total Shoreline: 7.1 miles

Maximum Depth: 60 feet

Town

Polk

HOORAY FOR HORSE LAKE

By April Ziemer editor@theameryfreepress.com

Horse Lake is located next to the unincorporated area known as Nye. Sitting east of Osceola, it is not one of the busiest bodies of water in Polk County and to those who reside near or visit the lake, it is like a tiny slice of heaven.

Horse Lake is a peaceful 221acre lake that measures 11 feet deep and is accessible by one public boat landing.

Behning Creek State public fishing area is situated northeast of Horse Lake.

Sitting near the lake is the Stower Seven Lakes State Trail. Built on a former railroad corridor, this 14-mile trail begins in Amery, travels through the communities of Deronda, Wanderoos and Nye, ending about one mile from Dresser at 90th Avenue. The trail passes through maple and oak forests, wetlands, prairies and farmlands and past seven picturesque lakes. The trail crosses between the North Twin and South Twin lakes in Amery, then skirts Bear Trap, Kinney, Dwight, Horse and Lotus lakes.

A unique area surrounded by blips on the map known as Nye, Ubet, Wanderoos and Horse Creek, Horse Lake was once farmland. A 1920’s map shows land around the lake being owned by farmers Smith, Hokanson, Nehring, Hendrick, Gustafson as well as several Andersons, Olsons and Johnsons.

Thus far, it looks like the only invasive species bothering Horse Lake is CurlyLeaf Pondweed. Recreational activities such as fishing and boating may spread aquatic invasive species. Some aquatic invasive species can attach to boats, while others can become tangled on propellers, anchor lines, or boat trailers. Many species can survive in bilge water, ballast tanks, and motors or may hide in dirt or sand that clings to nets, buckets, anchors, and waders. Fortunately, completing a few simple steps can prevent the transport of aquatic invasive species. Remember to clean, drain and dry your boats and other water sport products to prevent Curly-Leaf and other species.

Horse Lake’s fish include panfish, largemouth bass and northern pike.

And if fishing’s your thing, especially carp fishing, Horse Lake should be a go-to spot, because if there’s one thing this lake has an abundance of, it’s carp, one of the most common invasive fish species in Wisconsin.

“Lotus Lake flows into Horse Lake, then outflow goes to Cedar Lake, and there’s carp in all three,” said Polk County Water Quality Specialist Colton Sorensen. “What carp do is basically root up the bottom, and they’ll stir up sediment–releasing nutrients [and] causing more algae blooms.” Carp became widespread

Contributed

Contributed

in the United States in the late nineteenth century after being introduced as a food source, but quickly became a detriment to American waterways by muddying up lake bottoms, choking out aquatic vegetation and interfering with native species’ food supply. Though they already exist in high numbers, uninformed people can add to their populations through actions as seemingly innocuous as disposing of a pet goldfish. In the wild, goldfish can mate with carp, and will quickly revert to their natural grey color and expand drastically in size.

“With so much water coming in and leaving the lake, it’s really hard to tell how they got there,” Sorensen said. “Just even releasing goldfish–if enough people released one goldfish, and they mated, they could potentially make a population.” ■

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 fish 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.

Live & Work Where You Love To Play

Cool

Serving

BIRCH STREET BAR

WHAT ABOUT WINTER?

Your relationship with Polk County’s lakes can be a year-round love affair

By April Ziemer editor@theameryfreepressd.com

It’s July-nobody really wants to think about frozen lakes, but the reality is summer is slipping through our fingers. This does not have to mean we need to break up with our local lakes-in fact, according to some, the fun is just getting started...

Ice Fishing

When the snow flies and the wind howls, we know where to find Wisconsin anglers - on the ice! “Hard water” fishing for panfish is fun and may result in a fine dinner. Polk County has plenty of options. Ice fishing contests on Polk County lakes are a wintertime staple and favorites (depending who you ask) include Wapo/Bear Trap and Big Lake. Often time, winter fishing is a return to the familiar haunts of summer. Be sure to use tasty baits and reel in your full meal deal! Baits can vary as much as your local fishermen but mousies, wax worms, and spikes (all larva of insects) typically grace the ends of ice fishing jigs.

Know how to tie a knot. There are methods of tying on jigs and baits that create “bounce’ or wiggle that entice hesitant fish into biting.

For panfish, keep your line light (2- to 4-pound test monofilament) and the terminal tackle small: rat finkys, marmooskas, tear drops and ice jigs need to be kept to scale with a panfish mouth, such as # 12. The same goes for floats or spring bobbers...keeping them sensitive and offering minimal resistance means more bites. But if the bite isn’t happening, don’t be afraid to switch it up and offer up a big meal...sometimes big aggressive fish will take a large flashy lure. Be quiet (which can be hard when you are out chuggin’ beer and swappin’ fish stories with pals) but more often than not, it’s the quiet focused anglers that fill their pails. Fish spook and avoid vibration and noise. To keep disturbance to a minimum drill extra holes when you first arrive so when the bite gets hot you can maximize the potential of the area you are fishing. If fish aren’t biting, take a walk and see if others are enjoying any success. Hole –hopping, even small distances, can produce fish. A hole that isn’t fishy

isn’t going to put dinner on the table...

Safe hiking on frozen lakes

Snow-covered lakes are the most majestical and often the easiest routes into winter wilderness. Those who have spent years of plying frozen ponds in the upper Midwest, have learned to pay attention to the nuances of ice formation. Some of the most picturesque frosty lake landscapes include the Butternuts and Deer Lake. Here are some tips:

Check with DNR about current conditions.

Each year’s ice is a little different, depending on snowfall and seasonal temperature variations. If heavy snow arrives before the ice thickens, for instance, it can insulate the ice, resulting in a weak layer.

• Avoid known weak spots such as springs. Moving water hampers ice formation, so note where streams enter and leave the lake. There might also be a slight current at narrow spots in a lake.

• Favor the south shore. Since trees typically shelter the south shore of a lake from direct winter sunlight, the strongest ice is usually there.

• Scan ahead for dark areas that may indicate water seeping up through a crack or thin ice.and avoid protrusions such as rocks or logs that radiate solar heat, creating a surrounding ring of weaker ice.

• Know your animals. Fresh deer tracks usually indicate solid ice, while otter tracks often lead to openings.

• Use a ski pole to probe the ice ahead of you, listening for the “tick” sound of solid ice. Back off if you hear the “tock” sound of weak ice. Oneinch-thick freshwater ice will probably hold you up; 2 inches certainly will.

• Distribute your weight by wearing skis or

snowshoes. This reduces your chance of breaking through weak ice.

• Always have a “claw” handy to help you pull yourself out if you do fall in.

Ice Racing

Cars and ATV/UTVs alike have ice racing fans that see them hitting the frozen lakes in winter months. Lake Magnor is well known for ice racing in the frigid temps. Balsam Lake is famous for their annual Iceman 500 race each February. The

race advertises itself to be the world’s fastest side by side race that races on bare ice 500 miles on a formula 1 style track.

In 1954 many cars entered in Milltown ice race on Half Moon, according to the Amery Free Press, car dealers experienced a boom in junker sales the two weeks prior as the ice racing fever swept the area.

The Milltown Jalopy race committee was getting a record number of entries for the affair, which was scheduled for 2 p.m., Sunday, Feb. 7. The racing area was at Sandy

Beach on Half Moon Lake.

The Women’s race, which was a special event, created a lot of excitement among the female drivers. Practice sessions indicated a more slam-bang exhibition than the men.

The Backward Race, also promised to be exciting, with glass taped and a safety belt holding the driver, it was almost impossible to see where to drive.

Other special events gave

WINTER | FROM 9B

the crowd a full afternoon of thrills. Spectators could park on land or on the ice and can sit in their cars during the races.

Snowmobiling

Unfortunately, many snowmobile accidents featured in the news seem to involve a trip across a frozen lake gone wrong. In Polk County, snowmobilers love to jet across Bone Lake as well as North Twin and Pike.

Across Wisconsin, 30% of all snowmobilerelated fatalities occurred on a frozen lake or river, but only 25% resulted from breaking through the ice. The other 75% resulted from collisions with fixed objects, such as docks, rocks, ice huts or bridges, or other snowmobiles and vehicles.

A common denominator was alcohol and/or drug use while riding snowmobile on waterways. Of all fatal accidents occurring on frozen waterways, 75% involved drugs or alcohol.

However, the most common risk factor for fatal accidents on frozen water was lack of daylight. Last year, 83% of fatalities that occurred on frozen lakes or streams occurred at night.

These statistics suggest some clear tips for riding on frozen waterways.

• Don’t drink and ride. Drinking always impairs judgment. And whether this means not checking ice conditions or

driving too fast, lack of judgment and frozen (or not frozen) water can be deadly.

• Slow down (and slow down even more at night). Especially at night, it’s hard to know what’s out there on the lake. Whether sketchy ice, a bridge column or an ice fishing hut, you won’t see it in time if you override your headlight.

• Check the condition of the ice. Experts say there’s no way to know for sure if the ice is safe. That means extreme caution is required. Snowmobiles need 5 inches of clear solid ice. Check with a trusted local source (like a bait shop) and check the ice yourself when you get there. Don’t ride alone. And make a ride plan. Riding with a buddy can be a lifesaver in any number of situations. Even if you are travelling with a friend, tell someone else your plan and check in when you arrive safely.

• Know what to do if you go through. Going through the ice is a bad situation. But it doesn’t have to be fatal. Review what to do before you go out, and if something should happen, stay calm but act quickly. Carry ice picks and use them to pull yourself out on the edge where you broke through, which is a good video demonstrating the use of ice picks. ■

Horse Lake

Acres: 227

Total Shoreline: 3 miles

Maximum Depth: 11 feet

Town of Osceola

Polk County, Wisconsin

SECTION C

SURROUND YOURSELF WITH NATURE (AND CUTENESS OVERLOAD) AT FAWN-DOE-ROSA

By April Ziemer editor@theameryfreepress.com

Located smack dab in the center of western Polk County is Fawn-Doe-Rosa (FDR), a company with fundamentals based mainly on the letter F: Family, fun and furry, fluffy and feathered friends!

Jeanne Fick (owner) and her three children; Terri Larson, Scott Hansen and Tammi Hasselquist. Said they are all about family, which is great because FDR hosts thousands of families to their park each year.

FDR first open in 1963. It is family owned and operated. FDR started with a young couple Dick and Jeanne; an animal lover and an educator, with the support of their parents they made a dream come true. FAWN-DOE-ROSA was first called Bambi Land – however, Walt Disney did not like that and asked for the name to be changed. A naming contest was held in 1964 – a local boy came up with the name FAWNDOE-ROSA and he won a pony! This was just the beginning...

Jeanne shared, “Back in the day it was our dream to help animals. To give animals a home who didn’t have one. Dick was good with animals and knew how to care for them. I was a teacher at the time and knew just how to use resources and to apply education to our new adventure.”

It wasn’t long before they had an educational park where they could help animals and animals could help others. FDR was and still is, a learning experience. As the years went on, their family grew; Family of animals and of their own as Terri, Scott and Tammi came into the picture. It has always been a family adventure!

FDR has several animals who truly are family members; from Bob the Bobcat, Gordon the Elk, Owie the Porcupine, Poppy the Llama, Jake the peacock, and many many more...

Each of their furry, shelled, scaly, or feathered animal members have names and stories to highlight their uniqueness. Throughout their wildlife park you will find several animals. Along the path, within the

deeryard section – guests will see and meet North American wildlife. Right out the giftshop door, guests are often greeted by Chevy their buck and his deer friends. They have over 50 whitetail deer that roam freely throughout the park. They are not penned up as some guests might say when they see them over a guard fence. Deer can easy go in and out of their resting areas. They also have several benches along their creek and by pond areas for guests to sit, relax and to be entertained by many of their bird friends. “There’s a lot of chatter to be heard from not only our birds but from all of our farmyard friends!”

Down on their farm, guests will be able to meet, pet and feed several farmyard critters. From mini horses, sheep, llamas/alpacas, donkeys, variety of birds, Kiki the pig and several kids... Goat kids and their mamas that is! “FDR has over hundreds of animals we care and love for. We encourage our guests to ask questions while on their FDR Adventure.”

“We have several animals native to North America. We have had a few exotic friends that have visited or stayed for a few like fallow deer, hedgehogs, tortoises, along with others. But if we change the word exotic to unique... well we have a lot of that!”

They can honestly say, each animal they have is unique in their own way. Each of their animal family members has a story, a name and is loved. “They

teach us so much and we continue to learn from them. When you ask the family what are some of their favorites... we will go on and on! Jeanne talks about raising grizzly bears. Terri can probably name every horse or pony we have had. Scott is quick to share about porcupines and loves the deer. Tammi agrees with Scott about the porcupines but shares how there are so many fun facts to be told on many.”

This year FDR added more reptiles. That is another favorite thing of the family’s– sharing fun facts about animals. Did you know the opossum is the only North American marsupial? Porcupines have over 30,000 quills. Did you know a baby goat is called a kid?

FDR is a family business and there's many family members who are involved. "It truly takes a team to make great things happen and we are blessed to have each other,” said Jeanne, “We, as a family, rely on each other. It takes a great deal of time, dedication, education and hard work when working with our animal friends and family. We are always learning... We have 45 staff members we work with during the "on season." FDR is open to the public May-October. But family is there every day throughout the year. Spring, Summer, Fall and Winter... everyday a family member is on site.”

•

FAWN-DOE-ROSA | FROM 3C

When asked how much food the animals eat, the family responded, “A lot!” Each animal species has certain dietary needs. For example; Tater Tot and Earl Tortoise. They are both tortoises yet different kinds therefore, having different dietary needs. Education, research and collaboration with other animal specialist is all apart in seeing that animals’ needs are being met. FDR has specialized pellets made for different animals. They also have strict daily routines the family does to see their animals are getting what they need for care, health and enrichments. Their guests also have the opportunity to feed some of these feeds to the animals during their visit. But this is only a treat as they do have specialized dietary needs that the family oversees. They are thankful to local coops, food shelters and local farmers for helping them in the areas of animal food.

What do we do during those cold winter months or “off season”? We continue to do what we love and that is to be with our animals. During the winter months, most of our animals stay right at the park. We make adaptions to help provide them with what they will need for the cooler weather. Our deer herd go into the wooded area on the backside of our park with shelters and feeders. Many of our wild friends like Flower the skunk or Polly Opossum will go into our warm buildings. We see that all of our animals have warm shelters/bedding

and water warmers to keep their water source with fresh water whatever the winter weather may bring. Some of our farmyard animals will go home with family members as well. Family members keep a schedule so there is no fighting on who goes out complete the daily routines even on the snowiest of days or the coldest of weather. Daily routines are followed to see our animals have what they need each and everyday at FDR.

When asked how FDR has

changed, Jeanne responded, “Oh golly! We could go on and on with stories. It has been mentioned several times we could write a book. But sometimes, the best stories are kept close and are told as the generations go on.”

When asked of Jeanne, she said she couldn’t even begin to pick just one. Though in conversion about stories, she will often share about raising grizzly bears.

Terri likes to recall stories growing up when there were

wagon and trail rides with an olde time western theme.

Scott shared he likes the story of how FDR got its name. But when at the park, he is quick to point out the history wall within the giftshop and a special picture of Jeanne who is surrounded by her young animal friends. He chuckles as he likes to say how he too is in the classic photo (Jeanne was pregnant with Scott the first year they opened). Tammi who gets the title of being the Family’s storyteller, giggles as

she does not deny that title. Having their business reach 60 years of operation is one of their greatest accomplishments. The stories their guests have to share, the memories that are being made, the lives that have been touched through their business over the years touches their hearts.

“We are very proud of our family and all the hard work that has been done throughout the years. We are inspired and motivated to carry our

family business on to other generations to come... With all this, comes challenges and with challenges come learning. We have learned to embrace change and to navigate through what is to come our way. For example, in our line of work there are many laws and regulations that are set, and we need to follow.”

They shared this can be hard and has changed the business through the years.

“Recently, we had COVID which only made us stronger in many ways. It takes an open mind and open heart to take on these big challenges but with a supportive, positive and inspiring team one finds they truly can-do great thing together.”

FDR is truly a special place. It has touched the lives of many.

The family said it is hard to come up with a favorite thing as there are so many favorites. “When the family is asked this question; we all struggle a bit. But then oh how all the stories started to flow... The concept of family came up by each

member over and over.”

Jeanne mentioned how FDR is a good place for all kinds of families to be together.

Terri loves the animals and

the amazement on people’s faces as they can reach out and actually touch many of them. She said, “It is smiles all the way... it’s truly amazing

what animals can do for the soul.”

Scott shared how he likes to watch people with the animals and how it brings smiles to

their faces.

Tammi wrapped up the conversion by saying, “It’s the simple things. The animals. The guests. The learning. The giggles to be heard and the smiles to be seen.”

FDR offers more than looking at animals they offer the experience to be close to their animal family, to learn from them, about them and to enjoy them as they do! Tehy have family members throughout the park, working with animals, cleaning the grounds and being there to share with the guests during their FDR Adventure!

“We encourage questions as that is how we learn. FDR is all about family learning together. We have VIP packages perfect for special family celebrations. We also offer educational tours to organizations and have a lot of fun with groups during their FDR Educational Adventure. FDR is a place that brings family and friends together.”

They have a playground,

FAWN-DOE-ROSA | FROM 5C

several picnic tables, and two picnic shelters perfect to enjoy a picnic lunch or a take-out order from one of their local food venues (there’s many in the area)! They also offer pony rides (Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day) to young cowboys and cowgirls! Don’t forget about their large giftshop where there is something for everyone.

The family said, “FAWN-DOEROSA is a special place. Each animal is unique and special. Our Park is divided up into areas: Farmyard, Deeryard, Interactive Area, and Giftshop. Many of our guests will comment on how our covered wagon or farmyard equipment reminds them of childhood memories. How they enjoy just walking around or even sitting with the animals. Some recall a certain pony by name that they or their child rode from year to year. Our welcome sign has also been a place for family poses year after year. Social media has been a place for our guests to share memories, a photo and/or comment. It brings us great joy to

know that FDR is a place for families.

“FDR is all about family and when we say family, we mean everyone who is involved; from our animal friends, to staff members, to our own children, to our guests that visit. We hope that everyone who comes to FDR feels like family.”

Drowning. It is human nature to think it can't happen to me-but it can. The majority of people who drown in boating accidents know how to swim but become incapacitated in the water.

Sometimes they are injured or unconscious.

Others develop hypothermia or become exhausted.

Some are weighed down by clothing.

It is important to wear a life jacket at all times while boating. An accident can happen without warning.

Usually, after an accident, the life jackets are not within reach-in cabinets, trapped under the vessel, floating far away in the water.

Sandbars are not permanent. Sandbars are constantly moving, and the downstream end is often unstable and will not support a person walking on it (think quicksand). This is particularly true when the sandbar is covered by a few

inches of water. Life jackets will keep you on top of the water if you walk off an unexpected drop off.

Make sure your life jacket

Has the right fit – it should be snug when fastened. You don't want it too large or too small. Is free of rips, waterlogging or mildew.

Is fully dried after use and stored in a dry place when not boating.

For inflatable life jackets, be sure to test regularly to ensure it can inflate orally and hold air for 16-24 hours. Be sure to also inspect the cartridge for discharge or corrosion.

Life jackets for all water sports

The common reasons people give for not wearing a life jacket are that it is too hot, or it will mess up their tan line, or they are simply not comfortable.

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!

It's the law

All vessels (including canoes, kayaks, and paddleboards) must have at least one USCGapproved wearable life jacket for each person on board.

All vessels 16 feet or more in length must have one USCGapproved throwable personal flotation device onboard that is

immediately accessible.

Every person on board a personal watercraft must wear a USCG-approved life jacket.

Sailboards and windsurfers are exempt from life jacket requirement but are highly encouraged to wear one.

Federal law requires children under the age of 13 to wear a USCG-approved life jacket while underway in an open vessel on federally controlled waters. ■