Amery Free Press October 21, 2025

Lincoln seeks new terms as Amery fire contract nears deadline

BY JUSTIN RUNBERG EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

After pulling out of its automatic fire contract renewal with Amery, the Town of Lincoln is now on the clock to reach a new deal or find

another fire department before the current agreement ends Dec. 31.

The Town of Lincoln sent a letter to the City of Amery regarding its decision not to renew the current fire protection contract. This

City seeks to recover funds from special celebrations

BY JUSTIN RUNBERG EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

The City of Amery is exploring ways to recover spending on community celebrations before the budget vote next month. The Amery Community Club and the city have been discussing the best ways to move forward. Since the Community Club is a nonprofit, it funds its activities through fundraising. In their most recent meeting, they reviewed their financials to see where their money is spent. At the end of the year, they had a small surplus.

contract exists between the City of Amery and the Town of Lincoln.

In their letter, Lincoln stated that they want to adopt an updated, revised contract.

The letter also mentioned that the Town of Lincoln

Trick-or-Trot enters 12th year with another twist

BY JUSTIN RUNBERG EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

to a meat raffle, which will be held at UW Wanderoos.

The annual Trick-or-Trot is returning for its 12th year. Unlike previous years with a run and scavenger hunt, this year’s event will also look different. Although past years were fun and attracted lots of participation, last year’s numbers were low. Pam Humpal and her family decided to change it

Aside from the meat raffle, there will be other ways to win cool prizes with door prizes and drawings held during the event. Some of the items include stylish sunglasses and gift cards. The event will be on November 1, starting at 2 p.m. and running most of the evening. The first drawing will be around 2:30 p.m. Come dressed in a costume,

would need to give the city at least 60 days' notice. Additionally, the letter said that the adoption of the revised contract will occur at a future Town Board meeting.

for both adults and kids, for a chance to win even more prizes.

This has become a Kuhl family tradition that continues to benefit the community and make a local impact.

“We wanted to do something to give back to the community because my mom and dad were so big in the community,” Humpal said.

On the city’s side, some events end up costing the city more than others, totaling about $12,000 for staff wages and power. Fall Festival is a recent example that required police and public works to handle cleanup and safety measures. City Administrator Alex Mansfield wants to lower that amount.

“I have, at this point, met with the Community Club Board and various members as part of this

LINCOLN: Does not agree with the current contract

If the Town of Lincoln does not agree with Amery’s contract and fails to find a new fire department for their services before January 1st, the town could be left without fire protection. Lincoln’s main reason for wanting to revise the contract is that, after the latest property assessments, the town’s costs would exceed 50% of the Amery Fire Department’s budget.

Lincoln contributes part of Amery’s fire department operating costs each year, along with expenses for other municipalities that use Amery’s fire services. The amount the town pays is based on property values determined through equalized valuation. This is then compared to the contributions from other towns served by the Amery Fire Department, such as Alden, Black Brook, and Amery.

The contract also states that if a fire in Lincoln requires extraordinary assistance—such as additional firefighters, extra equipment, or chemical handling— Lincoln must pay those costs after receiving an itemized bill. The town is not responsible for expenses incurred by other towns.

The contract includes other items that outline the agreement. If a natural disaster occurs in the area and Amery Fire cannot provide services because of that, they cannot be held responsible. Lincoln must also follow Amery’s fire code and cannot permit a violation of it. Lincoln also has a seat on the Joint Advisory Fire Committee. The contract was effective through December 31st, 2023, but was automatically renewed each year until either party gives the 60-day written notice. If either party withdraws, Lincoln remains responsible for their share of debts incurred during the agreement. Changes to the contract must be in writing and signed by both parties.

The City of Amery is the nearest fire department for the Town of Lincoln. If the town decides to go elsewhere, the next closest departments are the Allied Fire Department or the Apple River Fire Department. The next Fire Commission meeting will be held November 13.

Salvation Army seeks more volunteers for annual kettle drive

BY JUSTIN RUNBERG EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

After raising more than $29,000 last year, the Salvation Army hopes to surpass that total when its annual bell-ringing campaign begins Nov. 14, funding local assistance for rent, utilities and food at a time when more families are struggling to get by. As November approaches, the familiar sound of bell ringing will fill the air. The Salvation Army will start its annual bell-ringing campaign on November 14 and run through December 31. This campaign is crucial for raising most of the Salvation Army's yearly operating funds. It also provides an opportunity for

SEE BELL RINGING, PAGE 15

TRICK-OR-TROT: First year organizing a meat raffle

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

“And Wilfred and Irving Kuehl and the grandkids decided that it had to be around Halloween because my mom's birthday was

on November 1st. This year it's appropriate that we have the first meat raffle on my mom's birthday. So we had it around Halloween because my mom loved that time of year.”

Since starting in 2014, the event has raised $76,000 annually. The funds are then distributed to local groups, including the Amery Food Pantry and the Salvation Army’s backpack program.

CITY: Collaborating to see what could work in future

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

discussion, to try and understand the feasibility of a degree of cost recovery as an extension of the special event permit process that was implemented in August,” Mansfield said. “In discussion with these event organizers or their supporters, the passion and support from volunteerism is highly positive, appreciated, and I encourage their feedback and their comments.”

During the discussions, Mansfield asked how much the Community Club might be able to repay of those costs. After reviewing the financials with the club and their board members, it became clear that the costs would be too burdensome for the Community Club to cover. At the Finance Committee meeting, Mansfield stated that pursuing the costs was not feasible because it could negatively impact the ability to deliver the supported special events.

Mansfield also believed the way forward was to explore alternatives to offset costs and efforts. A suggestion from the incoming Community Club President was the willingness to collaborate on volunteer efforts to help share the expenses and maintenance tasks related to the events. This aligns with what the Arts, Parks, and Rec department are doing by creating a volunteer program for spring and fall cleanup days. Broader efforts are also underway to encourage more community participation in events.

Other members of the committee discussed alternatives that would benefit both organizations moving forward. Mayor Rick Van Blaricom offered several suggestions. One was related to the response from the food vendors who set up at events. They were popular, but he explained that a way to reduce the cleaning workload for the public works department could also be managed by the food trucks. At the end of the event, they could be expected to stay and assist with cleanup or at least help move the garbage cans. Regarding activities like carnivals, he also mentioned it might not be a bad idea to pass those costs back onto the organizers. However, since the Community Club signed a two-year contract, they would not be able to negotiate that until the following year.

Alderperson Fran Duncanson also weighed in on the financial situation. She said the city has a long-standing tradition of serving and promoting its community and events. She also said that Music on the River and Fall Festival are premier celebrations for the entire county and Northwest Wisconsin. She

felt it was not a question of the value they bring to the area but rather of financial responsibility. Considering how much residents are paying in taxes, she did not want to add another burden. Duncanson reiterated the need to find different alternatives while still providing fun for the community at large.

Duncanson suggested setting up a Business Improvement District (BID) as a way to fund Community Club. She was Clerk/Treasurer in Osceola when they set up a BID. A BID district assesses a property tax on a designated retail area. Owners of a majority of the valuation of the property tax in the area has to agree for the district to be established.

The second part of the conversation centered on room tax revenue. Until recently, the Community Club received 100% of that revenue. Now, it is divided with 70% going to the Community Club and 30% to the city. Duncanson explained the state law and how a mistake was made earlier.

“Wisconsin Statute 66.0615 dictates room tax revenue and how that revenue is allocated,” Duncanson said. “And per that statute, the city designates the tourism entity that receives that money and the City of Amery has designated the Amery Community Club. But by statute, that is 70%. The 100% that was paid, I don't know what the thought process was behind that.”

Alderperson Roger Van Someren added as the meeting concluded the importance of collaboration and effective communication. Both would benefit the organizations and the people they serve. Representatives from the Community Club and the Finance Committee felt it was a good discussion to move forward and make changes.

OUT ABOUT& AMERY FREE PRESS

Boo-Bingo Bash

Join the Amery VFW for a scary good time on October 25 starting at 1 p.m.. Doors open at noon with fun company and a chance to win some prizes.

WED., OCT. 22

Alcoholics Anonymous

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

THURS.,

OCT. 23

Free Electronic Residential Drop-Off Stop by the South Industrial Park Rd. off Hwy. 46 across from the County Store in Amery on Thursday, October 23 from 1 to 5 p.m. to drop off your qualified electronic devices for free. Limit 200 pounds per vehicle. Line will enter into S. Industrial Park Rd. from the north on the west side of Hwy. 46. For a list of qualified electronics and more information, see the ad in the paper, call 715-483-1088, or email polk.recycling@ polkcountywi.gov

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.

OCT. 23-25

Huge Rummage Sale

Redeemer Lutheran Church, 600 S. Keller Ave., Amery, is hosting a Huge Rummage Sale on Thursday, October 23 from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., Friday, October 24 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Saturday, October 25 from 9 a.m. to noon. Free will offering unless marked. BBQ, bars, cookies, and cinnamon rolls are available Thursday and Friday only. Dine in/ take out. Something for everyone!

FRI., OCT. 24

Alcoholics Anonymous

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

SAT., OCT. 25

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

Business Trick or Treating in Amery

Participating Amery businesses will welcome trick or treaters from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. Look for signs in the door or window of participating businesses.

Democracy Protectors Vigil

The Democracy Protectors are holding a Vigil every Saturday at noon in downtown Amery at Soo Line Park.

Haunted Halloween

Trail in Deer Park

The Forest Timberwolves 4-H Club is hosting a Haunted Halloween Trail at the Village Park in Deer Park. The event is Saturday, October 25 from 5 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. It will be a night of eerie fun, wicked crafts and ghostly games. Free hot chocolate and popcorn will be provided.

OCT.

25 & 26

Family-Friendly

Haunted House

There will be a Family-Friendly Haunted House at the Clear Lake Community Center, 560 5th Street, Clear Lake, on Saturday, October 25 and Sunday, October 26 from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Free will donations are accepted for the Clear Lake Lifeline Food Pantry.

MON., OCT. 27

Polk County

Genealogical Society

The Polk County WI Genealogical Society will meet for lunch on Monday, October 27 at 11:30 a.m. at the former Dickie’s Diner in Luck. We will have the meet-

ing/program at 1 p.m. at the Luck Historical Society Museum. Topic: Organization by Pam Girtz.

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 before you sign up.

TUES., OCT. 28

Amery Community Blood Drive

Every 2 seconds, someone in the U.S. needs blood, yet only 3% of the population donates! The American Red Cross is hosting a blood drive sponsored by the Amery Knights of Columbus on Tuesday, October 28th, from 10 A.M. to 4 P.M. at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, 1050 Keller Ave. N. You can easily sign up on Facebook, call 1-800-RED-CROSS (7332767), or visit RedCrossBlood.Org and enter “Amery” to schedule your appointment. It’s a life saver! Thank you for donating!

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.

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. Amery American Legion Amery American Legion Post 169 will meet at the Post, 320 Memorial Dr., Amery at 7 p.m. the last Tuesday of the month. All honorably discharged veterans are welcome. For more information, call 612-237-9747.

WED., OCT. 29

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

Email events for consideration to editor@ theameryfreepress.com, deliver them in person to our office at 215 Keller Ave. S. or submit them online: www.theameryfreepress.com.

Rummage Sale

Something for everyone! Thursday, Oct. 23 9 am - 5 p.m. Friday, Oct. 24 9 am - 4 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25 9 a.m. - Noon

CONTACT US

Our offices are located at 215 Keller Ave. S., Amery, WI. Hours 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. Mon-Fri Call (715) 268-8101 FAX at (715) 268-5300, or visit www.theameryfreepress.com.

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Active member

pm Sat, Nov. 1, 9-Noon

Free will offering unless marked. BBQs, bars, cookies, and cinnamon rolls avaialble Thurs. & Fri. Only. Dine In/Take Out Redeemer Lutheran

OUT & ABOUT CALENDAR

Sorry not sorry, these words need to go

Our language is a wondrous thing. Words, chosen and used properly, are effective tools.

On the flip side, words, when misused, can inflict all sorts of agony on listeners, as well as confuse, frustrate, and obfuscate.

I’m sure this space provides a bit of both each week.

From the Publisher’s Desk

Tom Stangl

A few years ago, I learned that Lake Superior State University (LSSU) in Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan, annually releases a list of “banished words.” The humorous list is published at the end of each year, compiled from over 1,200 suggestions of words and phrases to be banished for “misuse, overuse, and uselessness,” according to the school’s website. LSSU has maintained an annual Banished Words List since 1976 to “uphold, protect, and support excellence in language by encouraging the avoidance of words and terms that are overused, redundant, oxymoronic, clichéd, illogical, nonsensical—and otherwise ineffective, baffling, or irritating,” according to the release announcing this year’s words.

Here are the 10 phrases that many people wish would go away:

1. Cringe

2. Game Changer

3. Era

4. Dropped

5. IYKYK (If You Know, You Know)

6. Sorry Not Sorry

7. Skibidi

8. 100%

9. Utilize

10. Period

I enjoyed the comments made by the people who nominated the words.

“Saying someone ‘caused you to cringe’ or stating that ‘you cringed at something’ is a pretty easy and proper way to use the word,” writes Ash from Newton, Alabama. “Hearing someone say ‘someone is so cringe’ makes me cringe!” “Nothing is a game changer if everything is a game changer,” writes Patrick of Washington, DC.

Leah of Holland, Michigan submits, “Thanks to the name of Taylor Swift’s tour, now there is an ‘era’ for everyone and everything! ‘He’s in his fatherhood era, ’ ‘She’s in her pottery-making era,’ etc., etc.. It’s overused and tiring.”

“Books, music, and all kinds of unnecessary things are currently being ‘dropped’ rather than introduced, released, or offered for sale. Banished for overuse, misuse, abuse, and hurting my head when all that “dropping” stuff lands on me!,” laments Susan of Littleton, CO.

If you know, you might agree it is time to let IYKYK go. Amy from Redford, MI feels this phrase should go for being both irritating and nonsensical.

A half-hearted apology masquerading as bold honesty, Sorry Not Sorry feels as disingenuous as it sounds. Sabrina from Wrenshall, MN writes, “It is really tiring to hear, and it is giving people another reason to be jerks to one another.”

Agatha from Denmark explains, “Nobody cares about a Skibidi toilet, Skibidi fizz, or Skibidi Ohio fanum tax. At this point, nobody even knows what it means and it just annoys people.” Is it possible to be over-enthusiastic about retiring the phrase “100%”? A phrase predominantly nominated for its overuse, some felt it was simply not applicable. “Since when should a percentage be used to describe your agreement

SEE STANGL, PAGE 18

Cooler heads prevail, even with a little heat

AFrom the Editor’s Desk

Justin Runberg

s you read this week’s paper, you might notice a small story about the back and forth between the City of Amery and the Amery Community Club. I don’t live in Amery, and my only connection to the city was eight years ago. I want to share my perspective on a few things that have been done and said.  First and foremost, the partnership between the two entities is unlike anything I’ve seen before. When I was in the La Crosse area, they organized Oktoberfest. The city hosts it with help from community partnerships and sponsors, similar to a community club. Realistically, the La Crosse is about 20 times larger than Amery. They have the resources to pull off these big events because of the population. Often times both the parks department and public works would be out on the streets cleaning or dealing with maintenance. This comes down to the City of Amery spending a significant amount of money to host these events with help from the Community Club. The two main offenders,

in my view, are the Fall Festival and some fireworks.

From the City’s perspective, I can see why this would be frustrating. They’re working from a less-thanideal position. City Administrator Alex Mansfield is doing his best to straighten things out, but considering the money spent, he wouldn’t be doing his job if he wasn’t looking for ways to recover some of the lost funds. He is also in the position he is in because of those who came before him.

Similarly, I understand why the Community Club is also frustrated. They organize many different events, big and small, to attract people to town. They are a nonprofit organization. And it does work. Whenever I attend town celebrations, I often visit a local business to have lunch or a beer or two. There is value in working together that benefits not only the residents and business members but also those visiting from out of town to experience Amery. The money they raise goes right into promoting the city and all the fun things there are to do.

Having listened to everyone, I noticed a lot of positive and constructive dialogue. Many comments focused on how the two organizations can collaborate better to lower prices for both, while still providing excellent experiences for the people here.

LETTER GUIDELINES

The Amery Free Press encourages readers to share their viewpoints of community issues by writing Letters to the Editor. Submit your letters via email to editor@ theameryfreepress.com, by mail to the Amery Free Press, P.O. Box 424 Amery, WI 54001, or by fax to 715-268-5300.

We reserve the right to edit for accuracy, clarity, libel, and civility. General letters to the editor are limited to 400 words or less. Readers may submit one letter for consideration every 30 days. Letters must include the writer’s full

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

There were some parts of the conversation that got pretty heated. People are passionate about the city. On one hand, the people have been burdened the past few years with less-than-ideal taxes from both the school and city in the form of the wastewater treatment facility. If that cost is put back onto residents, it would be tough. On the other hand if there aren’t any town events, people will go elsewhere, to neighboring towns, or spend their weekends in the Twin Cities. The City of Amery then misses out on business and traffic coming through town. Truth be told I do this. If there is nothing going on in any small towns in the area, I escape to the city. Bars are neat but I would rather spend my time elsewhere actually doing something.

I am not sure what the answer is. I can see it from both sides. The one thing I can really push people to do though is collaboration and compromise. That and keeping a cool head. I think we can all agree that working or talking to people when they are all jazzed up makes for an uncomfortable position for all those involved. In the wise words of Mike Tyson the mediator, “Now kith”

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.

up to 250 words and 10¢ for each additional word.

The Amery Free press has the right to reject letters which don’t meet publishing standards and will determine if the letter qualifies as a paid endorsement. Paid letters will be identified with a label and may or may not appear on the opinion/letters page.

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

Living with Felix

My cat, Felix, is lying at the foot of the bed. I wiggle my toes. Felix puts his teeth around them and I can feel the little points of his incisors. He lets me know he could bite— but he does not. That’s because both Felix and I have learned a lot.

The Postscript

Carrie Classon

We have had Felix for almost two years. Before we adopted Felix, he lived for two years on the street—at least that is what the vet said. The vet said teeth do not lie, and Felix’s teeth were two years old. My husband, Peter, is convinced that Felix is much younger because he was so small when we adopted him. And it’s true, he became much bigger and more muscular once he started getting regular nutrition. But Felix knew nothing about living in houses or living with people and, to be honest, we knew nothing about living with Felix.

The first time Felix felt comfortable enough to sleep on the bed, he bit our toes—hard. He bit them as if he planned to bite right through them.

“OWW!” Peter yelled the first time it happened to him. Peter took to wearing very heavy socks to bed. I’m not sure when or how it happened, but eventually Felix learned that those enticing little mice under the blankets were actually body parts that belonged to us.

The biggest problem wasn’t the toes, however. It was that Felix had never used a litter box. He used it right away when we adopted him—but not all the time, and that was a problem. We put down plastic to discourage him from going in the corners. We hid our dirty laundry to prevent him from peeing in that. We took him to the vet. She explained that he had to be stressed. Only stressed-out cats don’t use the litter box. Peter and I were skeptical.

Because Felix seemed entirely relaxed. In fact, when we caught him peeing where he shouldn’t, he seemed totally chill. “What’s the issue?” he seemed to be asking.

And again, I don’t know how he figured it out, but eventually he just stopped peeing anywhere but his litter box. He isn’t any less stressed. He just decided that peeing in one place was less hassle.

I’ve had other cats, but I have never had a cat as athletic as Felix. He quite literally bounces off the walls. He gets up speed in the hallway, then hits the wall at a high rate of speed and ricochets onto another wall before tearing off in the opposite direction. He makes a ferocious sort of growl when he does this. It is very exciting living with Felix. I don’t know if he will ever be as cuddly as other cats I’ve had, and I don’t really care. Felix likes

SEE POSTSCRIPT, PAGE 18

Seasons change W

e are in the fall season as evidenced by cooler weather, shorter days, longer nights, and wildlife making preparations. Seasons will continue to be experienced while we are on earth.

Life goes through seasons as well. Infants need their parents close at hand. There’s a period of education and maturing into adulthood. For some it’s marriage and families, experience in employment, and then the period of retirement, separation of family through death and extra care that’s needed to maintain a daily life.

About the Town

Gene Johnson

In this final period of life, we experience more deaths, more visits to doctors, and keeping a close eye on our resources so we can be self-sufficient and enjoy the time we have left on earth.

It brings more attention to our heavenly home for those who believe in the Bible and its promises.

Kathy and I are thankful every day that we have each other. So many of our friends have become widows or widowers due to severe illnesses and death.

MINNESOTA FRAUD

It seems like every few weeks something new has happened with inappropriate use and taking of our state taxpayer’s money.

Our state leaders are also overwhelmed and the federal government is sending people in to help uncover and bring to trial those with sticky fingers in the pie.

Many years ago a mentor, Pastor Lloyd Mattson of Duluth, told me about behavioral science. He said, “Gene, you need to realize that a third of the people are honest all the time, another third can be tempted, and another third are dishonest all the time.”

Over the 69 years in publishing community newspapers, I am aware of several embezzlements. We have reported on stories with breakins, robberies, and fraud, and this seems to continue.

A problem with democracy, which is a continuing experiment for the United States, centers around elections. When someone helps a person get elected through gifts of money, they also expect something in return. Many of the people appointed by presidents and governors are those who were helpful to them when they were candidates, but they are not always competent in the position they are appointed to. A lot of what we see happening is a result of incompetent people in government roles.

Now at this point in the history of our country, we have such a divided government and growing hate of each other that the American people are

SEE ABOUT THE TOWN, PAGE 17

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

Rule of Law

To the Editor, Trump, Vance, Bondi and Miller have stated that they are going to investigate and prosecute “left wing” terrorists. Who are these “terrorists”?

They are the people who believe in the rule of law

Who want to preserve the U.S. Constitution and its guarantees of democracy

Who believe that a government should attempt to relieve cruelty not worsen it

Who believe that immigrants are the historical source of strength and creativity of this country

Who believe in in the First Amendment and freedom to speak their minds

Who think that gender identity is personal business not government business

Who think that medical care is Science business not government flunky business

Who think that the US has a moral and global obligation to support climate science

Who believe that children should be educated by professionals not politicians

Who think our taxes should support our citizens not our billionaires

Who think that a US president should not use ICE as his private Gestapo

As this list notes, they are the people who are anti-fascist, who can make America great again and repair the damage being done by this rogue presidency. (lower case used deliberately for disrespect)

Arnold Potek Scandia, MN

Divided as ever

Our country is as divided as ever. It seems every

action that we take and every thought we express has some sort of political message behind it. We’re antagonizing our friends and neighbors because of who they vote for in elections, creating a rift between the American people.  America was built on the ideas of our founding fathers, but these founding fathers all had their own ideas of how the government should be run. George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, and Patrick Henry had their own ideas of how a government should be run, yet they still learned to respect each other despite their political differences.  George Washington believed that political parties divided citizens and pitted them against each other; time has proven him right. The idea of political groups working together has been lost, and all that remains is competition. People with opposing views shouldn’t be labeled as “the enemy”, they should be labeled just as they are: people. One word from the “Pledge of Allegiance” sticks out to me. That word being “Indivisible”. We’re supposed to be a unified nation, but every day we become more divided. We’re sending others’ voting histories to employers, we’re celebrating the deaths of people with opposing beliefs, and we’re threatening to cut funding to businesses if people with opposing beliefs aren’t removed. The disunity comes from both sides of the political compass, neither the Republicans nor the Democrats are saints, but it doesn’t have to be like this. We Americans must fight as one.

Riley Gagner Clear Lake

110 Years Ago

October 28, 1915

The New Flag Law

The legislature, which recently adjourned at Madison passed a new flag law (chapter 34), which amends section 436a of statutes relating to the use of flags on school buildings and provides it to be the duty of each board of education or district board and every principal or teacher in charge of the school, to cause the United States flag to be properly displayed in seasonable weather during the hours each day when school is in session. The flag is to be displayed upon the flagstaff of the schoolhouse or the school grounds. This law makes compulsory a custom, which should always have been and will always in the future be observed.

Not only are there many children in the schools of America who either were born in foreign or whose parents were and who should be taught to respect Old Glory, but the American children as well will be benefitted by the observance of this custom.

100 Years Ago

October 29, 1925

Tabernacle Campaign Drawing Immense Crowds

The Tabernacle Campaign is drawing immense crowds at each meeting and the sponsors are well pleased with the progress. We are informed that the meetings will continue until about Christmas.

Yesterday’s News

Diane Stangl

The mammoth parade Sunday afternoon contained representatives from Clear Lake, Balsam Lake, Reeve, Clayton, and Deer Park as well as from this city and the surrounding townships and tended to show the popularity of the meetings and the enthusiasm shown by the participants.

Infantile Paralysis

The first case of infantile paralysis reported in this community was reported by Dr. W. B. Cornwall the last of the week. The patient is the eight months old child of Mr. and Mrs. Geo. Gerrits who live on the Guanella farm west of this city.

Legitimate Business Gunning for Peddlers

The following concise article is one of many which will be used by the national association for the promotion of legitimate business. Many places have passed ordinances so strenuous that it is believed it will automatically eliminate the peddler.

An illuminating expose of the methods of house-to-house peddlers was recently made by the Oklahoma City Times,

J. P. Johnson Gift Shop

Back in December of 1974 this photo ran in an ad for the J. P. Johnson Gift Shop, which featured unusual items from Scandinavian countries such as Norwegian silver, hand-blown crystal from Sweden, Germany and Israel, stainless steel from Denmark and wooden hand-carved gifts from Italy. The ad stated, “Everything and everyone has a name, but it takes time and dedication to build a reputation. Try putting your faith in a name and a reputation and shop J. P. Johnson.”

which detailed one of its best reporters to take employment with a “direct-selling” house and afterwards write up his experiences.

The reporter told of the tricks to which he was taught to resort, in order to gain the interest of housewives; how positive rudeness was encouraged when necessary to get into the house; how persistence enabled salesmen to force women to make purchases against their will.

He told the trick of giving some trifling article as a means of “breaking the ice” and securing a second opportunity to gain admission to the home. Most important of all, he showed that in most cases the articles sold by order-takers could be bought for less in regular stores.

It was also shown that housewives are getting tired of bell ringers, who disturb them at all hours of the day and make their lives a burden. Still, a persistent peddler makes many sales, because a good-natured lady is too considerate to turn him down, as she ought to do.

80 Years Ago

October 25, 1945

Chicken Shoot Scheduled Sunday

The Future Farmers will sponsor their annual Chicken Shoot beginning at 12:30 p.m. and extending through 6:00 p.m., Sunday, October 28.

Ten marksmen will enter each contest in which they will receive three shots for the small charge of 20 cents. Contestants will provide .22 calibre guns or borrow one at the gallery. .22 Specials and telescopic sights will be barred.

Marksmen will be limited to a bag of five birds won.

The gallery will be erected on the Christenson Bros. farm, formerly the Fay farm,

getting very little rain and no high-powered display. Rain extended southward just a little ways past the county line.

But the residents of Amery can attest to the ferocity of the storm…some more than others.

In the Alme-Hayes neighborhood some peculiar goings on caused not a little excitement.

About 8:30 a.m. as the Melvin (Pete) Hayes family breakfasted, lightning struck near enough to knock the entire family flat on the floor. They were momentarily stunned but soon recovered and dashed for the outside. No damage, however, could be noted with exception of the electrical circuit.

“That’s as close as I want to come!” emphatically declared Dr. H. Alme when a bolt of lightning struck near enough to him in his home about the same time, to knock him flat on the floor. He theorized that it entered through the radiator and heating system. After being stunned for a while, he suffered no other ill effects from the blast.

one mile east of Amery on Co. Trunk F. Various kinds of prize poultry will be given as prizes.

Sportsmen, bring your lady, wet up the old sight, and enjoy an afternoon of competition, good clean recreation, and take home some poultry. Ammunition will be sold on the grounds.

Lt. Claude Jones at Beaumont 1st Lieutenant Claude R. Jones of Amery, is at William Beaumont General Hospital, El Paso, Texas, where he is being treated for wounds inflicted by enemy shrapnel in Germany.

Lieutenant Jones was a student at River Falls State Teachers’ college when he entered the Army, March 1941. He served one year in Europe where he saw action in France, Belgium, Holland and Germany.

He was tank platoon leader with the 10th Armored Division. He wears the European Theater Ribbon with three battle stars, the Purple Heart and was awarded the Silver Star.

75 Years Ago

October 19, 1950

Electrical Storm Causes Extensive Damage

Monday, Oct. 16, will go down in local annals as the worst thunderstorm in recent history. While it isn’t possible to catalog and record all extent of the damage done, it is without doubt one of the most costly ever to strike this section of the country.

Beginning in the early morning hours, the concentration of scintillating flashes and simultaneous claps of thunder rocked this fair city and the immediate area. Surprisingly enough, the electrical display was concentrated in a rather small area with Clear Lake

to some 100 or more service calls from broken circuits in the area.

70 Years Ago

October 27, 1955

Tot Munches Reducing Pills

Mr. and Mrs. Robert Davidson are breathing a little easier these days following a number of hectic hours Monday and Tuesday.

The trouble began when their 1½-year old son, Bartley, decided that he liked the taste of some reducing pills. He ate an undetermined number about 11:30 a.m., Monday at his Clayton home.

He was rushed to Amery for treatment and for 26 hours, the youngster never slept in the throes of the diet pills. Tuesday evening, he began his return to normal rest.

65 Years Ago

October 27, 1960

Halloween Festivities Set For Monday

The intermittent rain continued throughout the morning and it wasn’t until about noon that the disturbance ended with the rain quitting.

Throughout the countryside, many cattle were reported killed in the narrow path of the storm.

On Road to Recovery from Electrical Shock

Apparently on the road to recovery at the Amery Hospital is N. A. Husten, 70, farmer in the Deronda community, following a close call with death when lightning struck him as he lay on a daybed in his home Monday morning.

The bolt shattered the glass in the living room. It was believed to have followed the phone wires to the daybed he was reclining upon at the time.

Oliver Baillargeon rushed him to Amery where he was found to have suffered some burns and paralysis affecting his speech, one arm and other portions of his body. Hair on the back of his head and chest was completely singed off.

Fire was later discovered in the daybed but it was extinguished without any great damage.

Lightning Bolt Hits Local Company Hard

When electric current is shut down in Amery from 9:36 a.m. to 1:10 p.m., that’s news! For service here has always been “top shelf” with very little, if any, stoppage.

At 9:36 a.m. a direct shot of lightning struck the Amery substation near the Amery Motor Co., burning out two of the three 22,000 volt transformers and cutting current here. The crew went to work immediately but it took some time to move these units and replace them for each one weighed four tons.

Also included in the accounted casualties were about 15 rural transformers, which lead

Two Halloween events are set at the Amery high school on Monday for the Amery grades and junior high school. All grade children and some members of the kindergarten will parade in the big gym at 1:15 p.m. Following the parade they will have parties in individual rooms.

There will be no parade on main street, as this practice has been dropped because of the safety and weather viewpoints by school officials.

All junior high students have been invited to attend a party in the high school gym on Monday night beginning at 7 p.m. This party will last until about 9 p.m., when it will adjourn to the school cafeteria for lunch. Prizes and treats will be given at the party for the junior high.

A program has been set for the Monday night event and costumes will be the order of dress. Prizes will be awarded for the best attire. However, youths may attend whether they are in costume or not.

The party is planned by the Amery schools and the Amery Community Club with the costs being shared by the two groups and the city of Amery.

Tidbits

Oldest in Capital

The White House, the official residence of the President, was the first public building erected in Washington.

Druggists’ Mortar Old

The druggists’ mortar, which has come down to modern generations almost unchanged in shape, can be traced back to prehistoric times. The mortar in its present shape was used centuries before medicine, was known as an art, and was used to crush hard bodies. It was used by savages as well as civilized peoples.

AMERY CONGREGATIONAL

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

Friday, October 24: 5 pm Lefse.

Sunday, October 26: 9 am Congo Giving Meeting; 10 am Sunday Worship; 11 am Lefse; 2-4 pm Amery Community Youth Group.

Monday, October 27: 7 am Breakfast Club at Our Savior’s Lutheran Church; 6:30 pm Boy Scouts.

Tuesday, October 28: 10 am Adult Studies. Wednesday, October 29: 7 pm Acapella Group.

AMERY FREE LUTHERAN

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

Sundays: 9 am Sunday School; 10:15 am Worship. Call for more information on midweek youth group, bible study & small groups.

APPLE RIVER COMMUNITY

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

Sunday, October 26: 9:30 am Adult Sunday School, Children’s Sunday School, Women’s Sunday School; 10:30 am Worship Service; 6 pm Small Group Studies.

Tuesday, October 28: 9:30 am Women’s Bible Study.

Wednesday, October 29: 10 am Men’s Bible Study; 5:30 pm Youth Ministry.

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: 8:30 am Worship.

DEER PARK UNITED METHODIST

221 2nd St. W., Deer Park, Hakki Min, Pastor, 715-263-2700, www.willowriverparish.org Sundays: 11 am Worship.

DERONDA LUTHERAN

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

Sunday, October 26: 8 am Radio Broadcast on WPCA 93.1 FM; 9:30 am Combined Worship at Deronda; 6 pm Bible Study at Trinity. Tuesday, October 28: 5 pm Gather Community. Meal at Deronda. Wednesday, October 29: 5:30 pm JAM/Confirmation Family Meal; 6 pm JAM/Confirmation 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 am Discipleship Hour; 10 am Worship Service, Discovery Land. Wednesdays: 6 pm Student Ministries (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: 9:45 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

Saturday, October 25: 7:30 am Women’s Book Study; 6-9 pm Underground Church.

Sunday, October 26: Reformation Day–8:30 am Contemporary Worship; 9:30 am Fellowship; 10 am Sunday School, Traditional Worship with Confirmation Service; 11 am Fellowship, Choir Practice.

Monday, October 27: 9 am Lefse Prep; 7 pm Evening Grace Men & Women Bible Study.

Tuesday, October 28: 9 am Lefse Making.

Wednesday, October 29: 9 am Prayer Shawl; 5:30 pm Supper; 6 pm Fellowship & Fun; 6:15 pm 7th & 8th Grade Confirmation Classes; 7:30 pm 9th Grade Confirmation Class.

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, October 26: 8 am Radio Broadcast on WPCA 93.1 FM; 9:30 am Combined Worship at Deronda; 6 pm Bible Study at Trinity. Tuesday, October 28: 5 pm Gather Community. Meal at Deronda. Wednesday, October 29: 5:30 pm JAM/Confirmation Family Meal; 6 pm JAM/Confirmation 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 Chandra Ery 715-405-2253, catholiclakescluster.org & Facebook Sundays: 7:45 am Confession; 8:30 am Mass. Tuesdays: 8:30 am Rosary; 9 am Liturgy of the Word. Wednesdays: 8:30 am Confession; 9 am Mass, Adoration.

OUR SAVIOR’S LUTHERAN

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

Thursday, October 23: 9 am Bible Study.

Sunday, October 26: 9 am Worship. Tuesday, October 28: 1 pm Quilting.

Wednesday, October 29: 10 am and 2 pm Sunday Worship Service on Channel 6; 12 pm Table Talk; 5:30 pm Confirmation Cafe; 6 pm Confirmation; 7 pm Choir Practice.

REDEEMER LUTHERAN (LCMS)

600 Keller Ave. S., Amery, Edward Clemens, Pastor, 715-268-7283, redeemerlutheranchurch-amery.com Sunday, October 26: 8:30 am Adult and Children’s Sunday School; 9:30 am Worship; 10:30 am Fellowship, Voters Meeting; 2 pm Youth Event at Camp Wapogasset Bible Camp. Wednesday, October 29: 5:15 pm Confirmation; 6:30 pm Choir.

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 THE BAPTIST CATHOLIC

811 4th St., Clear Lake, Father Chandra Ery 715-268-7717, catholiclakescluster.org

Saturdays: 6 pm Mass; Thursdays: 9 am Mass.

ST. JOSEPH CATHOLIC

1050 Keller Ave. N., Amery, Father Chandra Ery 715-268-7717, catholiclakescluster.org & Facebook

Saturdays: 3:30 pm Confession; 4 pm Mass. Sundays: 10:30 am Mass; Tuesdays: 5 pm Mass. Wednesdays: 8:30 am Rosary; 9 am Liturgy of the Word. Fridays: 8:30 am Confession; 9 am Mass, Adoration.

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, October 26: 8 am Radio Broadcast on WPCA 93.1 FM; 9:30 am Combined Worship at Deronda; 6 pm Bible Study at Trinity. Tuesday, October 28: 5 pm Gather Community. Meal at Deronda. Wednesday, October 29: 5:30 pm JAM/Confirmation Family Meal; 6 pm JAM/Confirmation at Trinity.

UNITED COVENANT

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

Thursday, October 23: 6:30 pm Men’s Bible Study, Rebuilders Group.

Saturday, October 25: 7 am Men’s Bible Study at Sigsworth’s; 6-9 pm CREW Underground Church.

Sunday, October 26: 7:50 am Worship Team Practice; 8:30 am Worship Service; 9:45 am Sunday School; 10:45 am Worship Service.

Monday, October 27: 6 pm Women’s Bible Study. Tuesday, October 28: 8 am Prayer Time; 9 am Women’s Bible Study.

Wednesday, October 29: 5:30 pm Family Supper; 6 pm Kids Blast, CREW56; 6:15 pm CREW, Adult Studies, Men’s Group.

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.

Dorothy Ann Platson

On the early morning of October 10th, 2025, Dorothy Ann Platson (Leggett) passed away peacefully at Regions Hospital in St. Paul, Minnesota.

Dorothy was born April 21, 1942, to Leo & Ruby Leggett, and was raised in Kingston, Tennessee. Eventually, she relocated her family to Northern Wisconsin in 1980.

Dorothy had 7 children, 31 grandchildren, 54 great-grandchildren, and 2 great-great-grandchildren.

As a career, you would find Dorothy pursuing a CNA, LPN, or a Cook position within the local nursing homes, hospitals, and even restaurants.

Dorothy enjoyed spending time with her friends & family, going to the casino, especially with her great friend, “Grandma Bonnie”, attending live concerts, listening to her favorite artist, Charley Pride, cooking, road trips, being outside, shopping extravaganzas, and watching her favorite tv shows, Judge Judy, Steve Wilkos, First 48, Law & Order, and top favorite Golden Girls.

Dorothy was preceded in death by her parents, Leo & Ruby Leggett; her children, Kimberly & Mark; her best friend, Bonnie; her siblings; and granddaughter. She is survived by her children, Mike (Kim), Terri (Dan), Deb (Jeremiah), Renee, and Lori; her 31 grandchildren; her 54 great-grandchildren; and her 2 great-great-grandchildren. We also want to include her several nieces, nephews, and beloved bonus children.

Those who knew Dorothy will remember her for her infectious smile and overwhelming laughter,

Thomas “Swamp” Merth

Thomas "Swamp" Francis Merth, age 86, of Turtle Lake passed away on Wednesday, October 15, 2025 at Barron Care & Rehab surrounded by his girls. He was born May 16, 1939 in Clayton, WI to Frank and Frances (Carr) Merth.

Tom was born in a farmhouse east of Clayton on County Road D and was the second of 9 children. The family relocated and was raised on the home farm south of Turtle Lake. He attended White Clover School through 8th grade and graduated from Turtle Lake High School. He was drafted into the US Army in 1962. From there, his journey continued. He may not have attended 4 PM Mass but he attended many 9 AM church services just a couple miles south from his home on Sunday mornings. The fellowship brought many new faces to our home for meals and holidays. Those friends became extended family.

Tom and mom (Marge Miller) married on September 15, 1962. Together they raised 4 children; Lori, Terry, Kim and Cheryl "Punk". They later divorced, but their love and friendship for one another never ended. Several years later, Marge Frederick became part of his life and they shared many years and memories together.

Swamp's work ethic was not found in one career and he wore many hats. It included farming, school bus driver, working for the Town of Turtle Lake, and retiring from Lunda Construction as a carpenter. Along his journey, Swamp had a love for the outdoors which included hunting with his redbone hounds. He had a special place in his heart for his farm animals. Prior to his stroke in 2009, you often found him playing Dirty Clubs or involved in a good round of liar's dice at one of his favorite local establishments surrounded by many friends. He took great pride in being a member of the Turtle Lake American Legion Post 137.

her deep-rooted faith in Jesus, and her unwavering commitment to spreading love and kindness to everyone she encountered. She had a rare gift for making others smile and laugh, leaving a lasting impact on all who crossed her path.

Funeral services will be held at 11:00am on Friday, October 24, 2025 at Williamson-White Funeral Home in Amery, WI. A visitation will take place from 4:00pm-7:00pm on Thursday, October 23, 2025 at the funeral home. Burial will take place at a later date.

Dorothy’s pallbearers are Anthony McCarty, Brandon McCarty, Caleb McCarty, Braydin Lindner, Jerod Lyons, Treavor Sherrard, Christopher Oswald, & Andrew Johnson.

Honorary Pallbearers are Jordan Johnson, Nathan Ahlm, William Oswald, Timothy Bricker, and Britney Josephson.

There are no words that can express how grateful and blessed we are to our neighbors, social workers, friends, and family, who were there for us through her journey. Also, a heartfelt thank you to the Amery Hospital & Regions Hospital for doing everything they could.

Flowers will be accepted, or memorial contributions may be made to Dorothy’s GoFundMe. Your generous support will help cover the unexpected expenses associated with the funeral she envisioned.

Let us reflect on the past with gratitude, celebrate the present with enthusiasm, and face tomorrow with unwavering confidence.

We would also like to remember Dorothy’s cherished friends, Grandma Bonnie, Audrey, and Billy, whose love and friendship brought her so much joy.

There are a few things that will always remind us of Dorothy; her peanut butter sandwiches, golden girls on repeat, and her famous life motto she said to everybody: “I’m a hillbilly and proud of it.”

Swamp certainly left his mark on earth! His Irish Setter boots are going to be hard to fill. Anywhere you went, someone always knew him and had a story to tell, kind words expressing what kind of guy he was, or talked about a shenanigan or prank he might have pulled. If you knew our dad before his stroke, he may have been late or not even shown for his own funeral - but since...he became an expert clock watcher, pointing out if you were late.

Tom is survived by his children, Lori (Brad) Moen of Turtle Lake; Terry Merth of Minneapolis, Kimberly Eder of Turtle Lake and Cheryl (Kurt) Bussewitz of Clayton; 6 grandchildren, Jami (Nick) Shulz, Amber Bever (Paul Drees), Hunter Moen, Dusty Eder (Morgan Yeske), Jensyn (Jerrad) Lindfors, and Jaedyn Bussewitz; and great grandchildren, Blake and Bennett Bever, Landon, Kenzi and Logan Shulz, and Ryan Eder. Also his bonus grandchildren Jen (Joe) Styer family and Jason (April) Moen family. Siblings: Betty Peer family; Jim (Nada) Merth family; Jerry Webber family; Peggy (Dick) Smith family; Pat (Pauline) Merth family; Mike (Sondy) Merth family; Mary Kay (Ray Buhr) family; Karen (Jim) Kuntz family; and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and other family and friends.

Tom is preceded in death by his parents, Frank and Frances Merth; sister, Shirley Weber; brother in laws, Stan Peer and Ric Buhr; and mom (Marge), as well as many relatives and friends.

A Memorial Service will be held at 7:00 PM on Wednesday, October 29, 2025 at Skinner Funeral Home Turtle Lake, with visitation four hours prior, from 3 PM - 7 PM. To honor our dad's legacy, don't be afraid to wear your favorite work boots, jeans, flannel, and your favorite cap.

Interment will be at Northern WI Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Spooner, WI at 11 AM on Thursday, October 30, 2025.

Honorary pallbearers are his grandchildren: Jami Shulz, Amber Bever, Hunter Moen, Dusty Eder, Jensyn Lindfors, and Jaedyn Bussewitz; and his son-inlaws, Brad Moen, Tracy Eder, and Kurt Bussewitz. Skinner Funeral Home of Turtle Lake is serving the family.

Edwin J. Evenson

Edwin J. Evenson, age 70 of Deer Park, WI, died early on Tuesday, October 14, 2025 at the St. Croix Health Center in New Richmond, WI after a four year battle with cancer.

Edwin John Evenson was born on August 15, 1955 in Amery, WI the son of LeMoyne and Mabel (Zellmer) Evenson. He grew up on the family farm in Deer Park, WI and was baptized and confirmed at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church there. Ed attended Clear Lake Schools and graduated from Clear Lake High School in 1973. After graduating, Ed drove truck and made deliveries for UBC Lumber Company in Clear Lake. He later began working as a mechanic and over the years was employed by Jim Witthoft Auto Body , RVS in Clear Lake, Somsen Oil Company and for Jay Christensen at Clear Lake Auto. During all this time, Ed would also on occasion drive gravel truck for Gehrman’s Construction Company. In his spare time, Ed enjoyed buying and restoring old tractors and hit and miss engines often fabricating parts that could no longer be found. He liked being with people, playing cards, throwing darts and pitching horse shoe’s at Decosse’s in Deer Park. Ed took care of his parents toward the end of their lives and he enjoyed hunting but prefered tending to the stove for when the others returned from the hunt. He will be sorely missed by his family and friends.  He proceeded in death by his parents LeMoyne and Mabel Evenson.

He is survived by his brother - Irvin (Candy) Evenson - Osceola, WI; nephews, Jason (Margie) Evenson - Luck, WI and Christopher (Michelle) Evenson - Deer Park, WI; grand nieces and nephews, MacKenzie, Landon, Alex, Kaylee and Kiana.

A Celebration of Ed’s life will be on Saturday, October 25, 2025 from 3 - 6 pm at the Scheuermann Funeral Home in Clear Lake, WI. A Private Interment will be at the Calvary Cemetery in Deer Park, WI. Scheuermann Funeral Home and Cremation Services are handling the arrangements. www.clearlakefuneralhome.com

BY RAYMOND T. RIVARD

As of the first week of October, the Polk County Medical Examiner’s office has worked 103 cases, 23 of which were “signed out as accidental deaths,” Medical Examiner Jamie Holscher told the Public Safety/Public Works Department.

“These include nine ATV/motor vehicle accidents and motorcycle crashes,” Holscher said “We have nine deaths that were certified as falls, and complication of falls. So far this year, we have had four overdose toxicity deaths. … We’re seeing a lot of methamphetamines, as well as mixed drug overdoses, and we have had one exposure death due to our cold snap early in January,” Holscher added.

In addition, Holscher said the county also had five suicides, 74 natural deaths, and one death whose cause is still pending.

Wine terms to know

The world of wine is complex and has its own vocabulary. It can be intimidating to learn what is, in some cases, a whole new language. Don’t worry, we’ve got your back.

Acidity: The crispness in wine that activates the salivary glands.

Astringent: A wine tasting term that notes the harsh, bitter and drying sensation in the mouth caused by high levels of tannin.

Barrique: A 225-liter oak barrel originating in Bordeaux that is used for storing and aging wines.

Blend: A wine made from more than one grape varietal.

Body: A sensation describing the weight and fullness of wine in the mouth. Wine is usually described as being light, medium or full-bodied.

Botrytis: A beneficial mold that causes dehydration, resulting in a grape juice that’s high in sugar.

Brut: A term from the French denoting dry champagnes or sparkling wines.

Claret: The red wines of Bordeaux, according to the English.

Cork taint: The undesirable aromas and flavors in wine often associated with wet cardboard and moldy basements.

Corked: A wine that has suffered cork taint, not a wine with cork particles floating in it.

Cuvée: A blended batch of wine in Champagne.

Demi-sec: A French term meaning half-dry. It’s used to describe a sweet sparkling wine.

Fining: Adding egg whites or gelatin to clear the wine of unwanted particles.

Foxy: A term describing the musty odor and flavor of wines made from the North American varietal Vitis labrusca.

Herbaceous: A term used in tasting that describes odors and flavors of fresh herbs, such as basil, oregano, rosemary and others.

Lees: Sediment made of dead yeast cells, grape pulp, grape seeds

and other matter that accumulates during fermentation.

Must: A term for unfermented grape juice, including seeds, skins and stems.

Nose: A tasting term that describes the aromas of wine.

Oaky: A term that describes the smells and flavors of vanilla, baking spices, coconut, mocha or dill caused by barrel aging.

Sec: The French word for dry. Tartaric acid: The principal acid in grapes. It promotes flavor and aging in wine.

Terroir: A French word that refers to geographical characteristics unique to a specific vineyard.

Ullage: The space left in bottles and barrels as wine evaporates.

Vegetal: A tasting term that describes characteristics of fresh or cooked vegetables on the nose and in the flavors of the wine. Common vegetal descriptors include bell peppers, grass and asparagus.

Pouring a perfect pint

Pouring a beer properly isn’t as straightforward as pulling a tap or popping a top and dumping out the drink.

A proper pour can enhance the flavor and appearance of a beer, correctly controlling the release of carbon dioxide so that beer’s aroma and mouthfeel are as the brewer intended.

GLASSWARE

First, choose the right glass.

Pint glasses are a common choice for a range of beers and come in two sizes, 16 ounces and 20 ounces. The larger glass, called Imperial or Nonic, has a slight ridge towards the top and is preferred for beers with crowning heads. The svelte curves of the Weizen glass are made for wheat beer and spotlight the beer’s color while leaving plenty of room for fluffy heads associated with wheat beer. Pilsner glasses are 12 ounces and shaped like a horn and may come on a small stem (this is called a pokal, or European pilsner glass). Lagers and goses are great in these glasses, which show off the beer’s effervescence.

If all of this seems overwhelming, pint glasses are perfect for just about everything. Lighter beers go in taller glasses and darker beers in shorter, wider glasses. With that rule of thumb, any glass can become a beer glass. Even champagne flutes.

TEMPERATURE

Temperatures affect how a beer tastes. Generally speaking, cold temperatures are great for lighter beers and warmer temperatures for darker beers.

Consult the packaging or talk to the pros at your local liquor store for the proper serving temperature for your favorite brews.

POURING THE PERFECT PINT

Start by making sure the glassware you’ve chosen is clean and free of any dirt or residue and is appropriate for the beer you’re about to pour. Hold the glass at a 45-degree angle to prevent too much foam from forming too early. Pour the beer slowly down the side, aiming at the inside wall of the glass. As it fills, slowly straighten the glass, aiming for about an inch of foam at the top.

Before sipping, observe the color and clarity of the beer. Take a deep breath in, capturing the aroma and prime your taste buds. Sip, then let the beer linger in the mouth while analyzing the taste and texture.

Chocolate cocktails hit sweet spot

Rich and sweet chocolate is having a moment behind the bar. Indulge in these decadent drinks the next time you’re looking to unwind.

BRANDY ALEXANDER

Makes one drink. Recipe is from Liquor.com.

Ingredients

1 1/2 ounces cognac

1 ounce dark crème de cacao

1 ounce cream

Grated nutmeg for garnish

Directions

1. Add cognac, dark crème de cacao and cream into a shaker with ice. Shake until well chilled.

2. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass or a coupe glass. Garnish with grated nutmeg.

COCOA BLISS

Makes one drink.

Recipe is from ABC Fine Wine & Spirits.

Ingredients

Chocolate syrup

2 ounces vodka

5 ounces hot chocolate

Whipped cream

Grated cinnamon

Chocolate chips

Directions

1. Line the inside of a mug with chocolate syrup. Add the vodka and hot chocolate. Stir to combine.

2. Garnish with whipped cream, grated cinnamon and chocolate chips.

CHOCOLATE MARTINI

Makes one drink. Recipe is from Baileys.

Ingredients

2 ounces chocolate Irish cream

1 ounce vodka 1/2 ounce simple syrup

Directions

1. Add all the ingredients to a cocktail shaker.

2. Shake and fine strain into a coupe or martini glass.

Bourbon vs. Scotch

but not all

And, yes, in the U.S. it’s usually whiskey, with the ‘e,’ but in other countries, it may be whisky, without the ‘e.’ Either way, it’s the same umbrella of potent brown liquors. Keep reading to learn more.

WHAT IS BOURBON?

Bourbon, like Scotch, is a type of whiskey. It’s made only in the United States and is most commonly associated with the state of Kentucky, where about 95% of bourbon is made. It must be 51% or more corn grain and aged in new, charred American white oak barrels. There’s no specification for its aging, but two years is usually the minimum. If it’s aged less than four years, it must say so on the label.

Because it’s mostly corn, bourbon tends to be sweeter. It can be served neat, with water, over ice or in mixed drinks or cocktails. Historically, it’s been used for medicinal purposes as well. WebMD says that while alcohol use can lead to health issues, low or moderate consumption may reduce bodily inflammation. The drink also has high levels of polyphenols, plant-based antioxidants linked with lowering the risk of heart disease.

WHAT IS SCOTCH?

Like bourbon can only come from the U.S., Scotch can only come from, you guessed it, Scotland. The first mention of Scotch whisky (no “e,” because we’re in Scotland) comes from the Exchequer Rolls of Scotland in 1494, when the king gave a friar eight bolls of malt for distilling.

Scotch is a malt whisky or grain whisky, or a blend. It’s usually made with a single grain type, such as the original barley, although rye or other grains may be used. It must be less than 190 proof, greater than 80 proof, and wholly matured in Scotland in oak casks for at least three years. Caramel color may be added,

but otherwise, the Scotch must retain the color, aroma and taste of the materials used in production. Scotch comes in two basic types: Single malt and single grain. Single malt Scotch must have been distilled at a single distillery using pot still distillation and made from a 100% barley mash. It has not been blended with whisky from other distilleries or grains. Single grain Scotch is distilled at one distillery, but may involve whole grains of other malted or unmalted cereals. It can be distilled in continuous or column stills. The single in the name of single grain Scotch doesn’t refer to the grains but the distillery. From these two types, blends can be made. Blended malt Scotch means a blend of two or more single malt Scotches from different distilleries. Blended grain Scotch means a blend of two or more single grain Scotches from different distilleries. Blended Scotch means a blend of one or more single match Scotches with one or more single grain Scotches.

Clear Lake Volleyball stays undefeated in conference play

BY JUSTIN RUNBERG EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

The Clear Lake Volleyball team ended their season on a high note by remaining undefeated in conference play. The girls wrapped up their season carrying that momentum to sweep all their opponents at the Shell Lake Quad. The Warriors beat Shell Lake and Winter in two sets and were taken to the third with Washburn but won the last match.

When playing at home, the girls didn’t hold back. The Warriors went on to beat Chetek-Weyerhauser in all three matches. Abby Tibbetts led the attack with 18 kills, with Alissa Burbach adding

11 more. Ayla Monson also had a strong performance, assisting the team 25 times and securing three aces.  Clear Lake finished their conference play against Colfax while on the road. Again, the Warriors swept the matches. The offense was firing on all cylinders, with Tibbetts leading with 10 kills,

followed by Natalie Jarchow with 10 more, and Burbach adding nine. Monson provided additional support during the game, accumulating 21 assists, with Taryn Niles adding another 17. The defense was also strong that night, with Brena Dimler leading with 17 digs. Sophie Tellijohn contributed by maintaining a strong presence at the net, getting seven total blocks.

With the regular season now finished, the Warriors are focused on the postseason. Holding an undefeated conference record of 8-0 and an overall record of 27-8, the girls carry strong momentum into the final stretch of their season.

Warriors notch back-to-back shutouts over Osceola and Regis

The Amery boys’ soccer team put together a strong week on the field, earning two shutout victories on the road against Osceola and Regis.

On Oct. 14, the Warriors traveled to Osceola for a Middle Border Conference matchup that stayed scoreless through the first half. Amery broke through after halftime with a pair of goals to secure a 2-0 win. Jacob Stauner and Leithan Aikin-Duncan scored

the goals, while Aikin-Duncan and Till Erdmann had the assists.

Two days later, the Warriors carried that momentum into a non-conference game at Regis, where their offense exploded for an 8-0 victory. Stauner finished with four goals and two assists, while Frankie Christopherson tallied two goals. Aikin-Duncan and Erdmann contributed two assists each.

The Warriors finished the regular season with a 3-5-2 conference record and a 6-7-2 overall record. Statistical recap aided by AI.

Bears sweep Siren after busy week of play

The Clayton volleyball team wrapped up a packed week of volleyball with strong performances at home, highlighted by a 3-0 sweep over Siren Oct. 16.

The Bears defeated Siren 25-13, 25-12, 25-17, highlighted by Izzy Schradle’s 15 kills, while Addyson King added seven kills, 17 assists, and six aces. Isabelle Dosch chipped in six kills and 11 digs, and Kyleigh Luoma tallied 10 digs and 11 serves received.

Clayton started the week going 1-2 in a home quadrangular Oct. 13. The win was against Luck by scores of 1625, 25-23, 15-7.

Schradle added 14 kills, followed by King’s 12. The pair also combined for five service aces. Dosch led the team with 10 digs, while King had nine, and Schradle finished with eight. King also led the team with 12 set assists.

Lily Carter recorded nine kills for Luck, as Grace Olson recorded seven service aces.

Boyceville defeated Clayton by scores of 25-22, 2519. King, Schradle, and Lange recorded four kills each while Schradle added 10 digs.

Zoey Hellendrung led Boyceville with nine kills as Chelsi Holden added eight. Gretta Guy was the team leader in set assists (19) and digs (seven).

Mellen then defeated the Bears by scores of 25-19, 25-11. Schradle was the team leader in kills with eight, while King and Emily Zemke were the team leaders in digs with seven each.

Clayton finished its regular season 2-6 in conference action and 10-20 overall.

Statistical recap aided by AI.

Boe finishes second at conference meet

Macie Boe was second at the girls cross country conference championship Oct. 16 at Tower Ridge Ski Area in Eau Claire. The Amery sophomore clocked in with a time of 18 minutes, 43.9 seconds, five seconds behind winner Altoona’s Abbie Hoage. Prescott’s Kyra Dix was third. Anna Williamson was next for the Warriors in 27th place (22:25.4), followed by Virginia Livingston in 42nd (24:52.5), Violet Eskro in 45th (35:42.2), and Audriana Medina in 46th (35:52.2).

St. Croix Central edged Osceola to win the conference title by six points, 58-64. Somerset was third. Amery was seventh at 162 points. Meanwhile, the boys finished eighth overall with a team score of 157 points in a deep conference field. Elijah Ivey paced the Warriors with a 15th-place finish in 17:49.7. He was followed by Brandon Teigen in 27th (19:29.3), Liam Zinn in 29th (19:37.8), Miles Ivey in 37th (20:17.3), and Mateo Fleischauer in 49th (22:29.3). Avery Swanson

also crossed in 51st (25:42.4) to round out the lineup.

Osceola had four runners in the top nine to repeat as conference champion with 36 points. SCC was second with 60, followed by Prescott’s 97.

Central’s Jack Schauer was the individual champion at 16:08.9, 24 seconds ahead of Osceola’s Dawson Eckerman. Somerset’s Kaleb Mroz was third.

Statistical recap aided by AI.

Prairie Farm/Clayton captures girls’ conference title

The Prairie Farm/Clayton cross country team wrapped up their regular season at the Lakeland Conference Meet Oct. 14 at Sand Greens Country Club in Webster, where they earned the girls’ conference championship. The boys’ team placed fifth overall in a competitive field.

GIRLS CLAIM CONFERENCE CROWN

The girls’ team brought home the top spot with a team total time of 1:59:24.33. Kira Dunn led the team and the entire field with a firstplace finish in 20 minutes, 1:15 seconds. Anastasia Nedland followed in fourth (21:51.81), while Ashlyn

Olson finished 15th (24:00.72). Avery Lentz crossed in 27th (26:39.12), and Willa Gitzen completed the top five in 29th (26:51.53).

BOYS TAKE FIFTH IN LAKELAND FIELD

The Prairie Farm/Clayton boys finished fifth overall with a combined team time of 1:41:49.80. Brett Feather led the team with a strong

fourth-place finish in 17:25.12. He was followed by Maxim Severson in 19th (19:10.88), Sven Briggs in 34th (19:52.06), Mason Zemke in 46th (24:44.56), and RJ Hoffman in 50th (23:37.18).

Statistical recap aided by AI.

of the

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.

Are

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.

Warriors qualify for playoffs for first time since 2016

The Amery football team advanced to the WIAA playoffs for the first time in nine years thanks to a 46-27 victory over St. Croix Central Oct. 17.

“The effort and intensity level were high all night,” coach Ryan Humpal said. “We had many things go our way on Friday in all phases of the game.

The ground game finished with 258 yards rushing and four touchdowns. Keaton Wollan had 12 carries for 115 yards and two scores, while Jacob Maxon and Vante Allen also reached the end zone.

Maxon was 6-for-14 through the air for 104 yards and a touchdown.

“It was great to see us get the passing game going when Central forced us to,” Humpal continued. “Alex Siebenaler led the way with four receptions to loosen up the defense.”

Wollan was also a force on the defense end, registering 20 solo tackles, along with James Densow having an interception. Wollan and Maxon both recovered a fumble.

“There were many defensive players who had great nights to help

us to victory,” Humpal continued.

Wollan also had an 83yard kickoff return for a touchdown while Maxon converted two field goals.

“Great to see all units have impacts on the outcome of a big-time game late in the season,” Humpal added.

Wollan’s return touchdown was huge, Humpal explained, as Central cut the lead to one score.

“We also had a huge fourth down stop on our goal line to take all the momentum into halftime,” he said.

Owen Matzek was 13-for-18 for 263 yards and one touchdown for Central (0-7 conference, 2-7 overall).

“We knew going into the game that Central was not going to give us anything for free, and that was the case,” Humpal said. “In the first half, they kept answering our scores; we would get up by two scores, and they would answer right away. We seemed to take a sigh of relief a little at times, but it was great to see the boys find another gear in the second half to put them away.”

Amery ends the regular season 3-4 in the conference and 4-5 overall. The reward for the playoff berth: Top-seeded Aquinas (9-0) in the first round of the Division 4, Level 1 playoffs, 7 p.m., Oct. 24, at G-E-T High School.

“Looking forward to the whole week; playoff football is something this group of players and coaches has been chasing all season,” Humpal concluded. “Being able to get to this point of the year is going to make for intense practices all week. We will be traveling to La Crosse Aquinas this Friday; they are a really good opponent that has had great success in the playoffs in recent years. It will be a great test for us, and we expect the boys to put in a great effort this week. I know it will not be hard for them to get excited for the game on Friday.”

Statistical recap aided by AI.

Warriors pick up two wins in Cumberland Invite

The Amery volleyball team earned two wins at the Cumberland Invitational Oct. 11.

The Warriors defeated Cumberland by scores of 25-22, 25-17, and Menomonie 25-21, 25-23 before losing to Grantsburg 22-25, 25-14, 15-13 and Cadott 25-8, 25-19.

“The team played well together all morning and stepped up to the challenge of the ranked Grantsburg team, which was fun to see them play to their potential,” coach Lisa Markee said.

In those four matches, Kylie Meyer had 15 kills, followed by Josie Maxon with 11, and Sophia Trandum and Miley Brotzel with 10 each. Meyer was also the team leader at the service line with seven aces, while Brotzel had six, and Maxon followed with five.

Jenna Van Someren dug out 17 balls as Kallie Anderson dished out 31 set assists, along with Krista Markee’s 30. Kaleigh Wilson posted four blocks.

Amery then hosted Ellsworth Oct. 14 on Senior Night. The Panthers defeated Amery 25-8, 25-18, 25-20.

“It was great to see the seniors (Kallie Anderson, Jenna Van Someren, Libirty Andrews, Kylie Meyer, and Ellie Dietrich) on the court together and thank them for all their dedication to the program over the years,” Markee said.

Meyer finished with a team-high seven kills as Brotzel and Wilson earned five each. Van Someren was the team leader in digs with 13, while Markee and Anderson combined for 21 set assists.

The final match of the regular season was against Osceola, who defeated the Warriors, 25-9, 25-13, 25-16, Oct. 16, officially clinching the conference title.

“Their serve and attacks kept us on defense much of the night,” Markee said.

Maxon and Wilson combined for eight kills, as Brotzel and Meyer finished with six digs each. Meyer had two service aces.

Amery finished the regular season 0-7 in the conference and 3-22 overall.

Statistical recap aided by AI.

“Villkommen To An Authentic German Menu and Oktoberfest Beers”

A LOOK AHEAD

Thursday,October23

4 p.m. – Amery Boys Soccer at Columbus Catholic (if they win Tuesday) (Regional)

Wednesday-Saturday nights September 24-October 31

Osso Buco PorkSlow-roasted in sauerkraut SauerbratenMarinated roast beef & gravy

German PlatterPork Schnitzel, sausage

All entrees include: Buttered spaetzel, red cabbage, sauerkraut, German potato salad, soup, salad bar and dessert

7 p.m. – Amery Volleyball at Grantsburg (if they win Tuesday) (Regional)

7 p.m. – Clear Lake Volleyball vs. Hurley/ Washburn winner (Regional)

7 p.m.

Friday,October24

vs.

Crosse Aquinas (at G-E-T) (Division 4, Level 1 playoffs) 7 p.m. – Clear Lake Football at Johnson Creek (Division 7, Level 1 playoffs) 7 p.m. – Clayton Football at McDonell Central Catholic (8-player, Level 2 playoffs)

Saturday,October25

OCTOBER 6 – DECEMBER 12

Panel by Panel: A Comic Book Reading Challenge Tim Bruckner has worked for DC Direct and DC Collectibles for close to 20 years. Read comics, graphic novels, and manga for a chance to win a sculpture from his studio! Thank you to Mary and Tim Bruckner for donating a collection of sculptures for this challenge. Ages 6 and up, including adults.

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 23

Non-fiction Book Club – 2:30 - 3:30 p.m. This month's theme is apples. Read any non-fiction book on the subject, then come share what you learned. We can’t wait to hear all about what you chose to read!

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 25

NEW DAY AND TIME: 10 a.m. History Talk at the Library! Join Kevin Iverson for an informative discussion of The Kensington Runestone Books and Boos: Annual Book Giveaway – 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Drop by during the Amery Community Club's Trick-or-Treat event for free candy and books! We can't wait to see your costumes!

MONDAY, OCTOBER 27

Amery Area Public Library Board of Trustees Regular Meeting

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 28

Pokémon Club – 4 p.m. Get ready for Pokémon Club: October Edition! Trade cards, color spooky Pokémon coloring pages, and do a luminaria craft!

ARNELL MEMORIAL HUMANE SOCIETY

Our pet of the week this week is CJ! This 3-year-old Australian Cattle Dog is a 45-pound trifeca of awesome—smart, loyal, and completely unfazed by being deaf. Yep – he’s deaf, but don’t let that fool ya—CJ’s sharp as a tack and ready to herd squirrels, kids, or your every move. He’s looking for a home where he can flex his working-dog smarts and soak up all your chatter. He’s the perfect co-worker for someone who always has a project (or two), preferably outside. CJ’s also the ultimate listener—nods along, never cuts you off, and you can tell him anything – he’ll never share your secrets.

October is Adopt a Shelter Dog Month, and we’re pushing hard to get Bronx (70+ days) and Hugo (50 days) into homes. Their adoption fees are waived with an approved application, and both boys are ready to trade kennel life for couch life.

Bronx, our almost 6-year-old Doberman mix, is a total sweetheart who loves people and most dogs. His old family adored him, but another dog at home was a bully.

Wisconsin Leadership Seminar!

Faith Halverson was chosen as the Amery school district’s winner of the Wisconsin Leadership Seminar (WILS) scholarship. Faith is the daughter of Clare and Luke Halverson. The scholarship is provided by the Amery Woman’s club, represented here by Ruth Mugerauer and Julie Riemenschneider. The seminar will take place in June, 2026. Congratulations Faith!

Let’s get Bronx settled in time for his 6th birthday—stop by and meet him!

Then there’s Hugo, our sassy, fluffy Husky with jokes and charm for days. He’s got that classic Husky humor and a personality that fills a room. We’ve also got Mack (a brown Husky mix) and Oscar (a Husky/Malamute mix) if you’re into that wolfy vibe.

Prefer your dogs low to the ground? Enter Bert and Ernie,

two-year-old small breed mixes who rolled in as strays. They’re neutered, hilarious, and don’t need to be adopted as a duo—though we won’t blame you if you can’t pick just one.

5J’s Sports Bar in Centuria is throwing their weekly meat raffle on Sunday, Nov. 2 at 3pm, with six rounds of meat and a 50/50 cash round to cap it off—and this week it is to support Arnell’s animals! 5J’s is located at 418 4th Street in Centuria - come grab a drink, try to win some delicious prizes (or cash), and help us continue our mission.

Before Halloween hits, a quick reminder: stash the candy (especially chocolate and sugar-free treats), skip the glow sticks (no one wants a neon-drooling pet), and keep decorations pet-safe. Wagging tails and open flames don’t mix! Come meet our adoptable pets at 185 Griffin St. E, Amery—no appointment needed! We’re open weekdays 12–5pm and Saturdays 12–4pm. Reach us by phone at (715)268-7387 or check us out on Facebook or at arnellhumane.org.

BELL RINGING: A third of people live in poverty

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 2

those in need to receive help. With nearly a third of Wisconsin's population living below the poverty line, community needs are increasing.

“This is one we've raised 35 to 40% of our operating costs for the shelter. Now the shelter in Barron is where that serves Polk County, is the operating cost for that,” Amy Clay, Fundraising and media manager said. “But what I also want to speak about since we're specifically talking about Polk County is the amount of people that are below the threshold. So, 35% of Wisconsin households are below the threshold of being able to pay their bills.”

Many recent calls to the Salvation Army have been seeking help with rent, utilities, and gas bills. As daily expenses increase, many people are struggling to make ends meet, especially those on fixed incomes. They not only need assistance with regular bills but are also having a hard time getting enough food. The Salvation Army has been addressing these issues since the late 1800s.

The Red Kettle campaign began in 1891 to provide Christmas dinners for about 1,000 people in need. Although the foundation for the campaign was laid that night, the actual ring of bells didn't start until 1900. Salvation Army Officer Amelia Kunkle was a kettle worker at that time in New York City. At just 16 years old, Kunkle, dressed in her navy blue uniform, waited for donations. Some people gave right away, but many passed by. After talking with other leaders in the organization, she was told to bang a stick on the side of the kettle to attract attention. Instead, she found a bell and saw her success increase with donations. Today, it has grown into one of the most recognizable donation campaigns in the U.S., with thousands of volunteers participating each year.

When the bell ringers take to the streets to raise money, all of the money raised stays within the communities where it was collected. Hundreds of hours are spent locally trying to fill their buckets as several hundred people combine their efforts. Although many people volunteer their time and effort, more are still needed for the season. It's perfect for those who are retired or have free time to step out and make a difference in their community. Last year in Polk County, the campaign raised over $29,000 that remained within the county.

“We will ask you for your support when that campaign comes along. But throughout the year, we're just silently helping people that need it the most,” Clay said. “People who need backpacks and need help don't really want their story to be shouted from the rooftop. So we give people hope when there is no hope. And that's really why the Salvation Army is so important, because of hope.”

Anyone interested in volunteering this season should contact Amy Clay at 715-912-2834, email Amy.Clay@usc.salvationarmy.org, or visit the Salvation Army’s website to sign up online.

League of Women Voters celebrates 10 years with humorous take on suffrage history

CONTRIBUTED

The League of Women Voters of St. Croix Valley will celebrate its 10th anniversary later this month with a humorous yet thought-provoking readers’ theater performance that highlights the struggles and victories of the women’s suffrage movement.

Is it ladylike or gentlemanly to snort? What about to chortle, guffaw or howl with laughter? When was the last time a history lesson made you smile?

Audiences may find it difficult to suppress their laughter during “Oh Dear, What Can the Matter Be? Women Are Wanting to Vote,” an original reader’s theater production that recounts the history of women’s suffrage in verse. The League of Women Voters of St. Croix Valley is presenting the show as part of its 10th anniversary celebration.

When the League’s leadership team brainstormed ways to celebrate the milestone, members wanted something creative and different — not a typical speaker or panel discussion. They also looked for something fun because League work can be serious and

demanding. Program Chair Vicki Harmon’s theater background inspired the group to choose a readers theater format.

Research revealed that suffragists sometimes wrote rhymes to chant as they marched through the streets demanding the right to vote. To bring that idea to life, Harmon brought in Neil and Ellen Johnson — playwrights known for the popular “Ollie and Lena” comedies — along with Michael Hansen and Lori Lee Webster. Together, they crafted a script that tells the suffrage story in rhyming verse, mimicking the cadence of nursery rhymes.

An example:

“There was a little girl and she had a little curl, Right down the middle of her forehead.

When she got the vote, she was very good indeed,

But when they kept it from her, she was horrid.”

The production also features poems written by suffragists and songs from the early 20th century, performed by 13 readers, a narrator, and a banjo player.

Performances are scheduled for 7 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 25, and 2 p.m.

Sunday, Oct. 26, at the New Richmond Heritage Center Pavilion. Birthday cake and conversation will follow each show. A $10 donation is suggested but not required, and all events are open to the public.

The Wisconsin Historical Society’s traveling exhibit, We Stand on Their Shoulders: A History of Wisconsin Women and Voting, will also be displayed at the Heritage Center. The exhibit highlights Wisconsin’s role as the first state to ratify the 19th Amendment on June 10, 1919, and traces the ongoing expansion of voting rights for women through later legislation, including the 1921 Wisconsin Equal Rights Act.

The League of Women Voters of St. Croix Valley includes members from Burnett, Polk, and St. Croix counties. Members actively participate in voter registration efforts and regularly sponsor community programs on democracy and civic engagement. The League remains nonpartisan, neither supporting nor opposing candidates or political parties, while promoting issues that matter to voters and the public.

608 Harriman Ave S., aaccjen@outlook.com, 8:00am to 3:00pm Monday – Friday. Responsibility is defined as the state or fact of having a duty to deal with something or having control over someone. In short, responsibility is the ability to respond, NOT being paralyzed by fear, anxiety, procrastination or pretending the problem doesn’t exist. It means being prepared and not in a state of panic, planning but not controlling someone or something. It means accepting uncertainty; knowing what you can control and let go of the things you can’t. It is important to us because it provides us with purpose; sidestepping responsibility may feel good in short term circumstances but can lead to worse pain and suffering in the long term. In order to be responsible, you must start by being responsible for yourself; prioritize your sleep, nutrition and exercise; it is then that you can be responsible within your family; according to Steve Rose, PHD. This will then come from a place of genuine giving, without it, codependent relationships could result in which one does things to fulfill a lack of self-esteem in oneself and can be toxic. It is then that you can find a place to be responsible in society by contributing in a way that fits you and your unique personal strengths. Remember you may not be responsible for social or personal issues; you are still responsible for being part of the solution. Stay healthy and see you soon!

Upcoming events: Join us on Thursday for our HandiCraft Club; bring your crafts such as; knitting, crocheting, counted cross stich… etc. at 9:00am.

*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. Only TWO spots available for November 11th! Please call us here at the Community Center to get your date and time!

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 NEW members are $20 through December 2025. Starting in 2026 for ALL members, renewing or new, dues will be $25, cash or check only; please. Consider becoming a Patron of the Center with a donation of an additional $10 or MORE

Tues Oct 14th: 500 Card winners are Henry Utecht in 1st, Janet DeLong placed 2nd, Virginia Spreeman with 3rd, & Kim Rosen with the consolation prize.

Wed Oct 15th: Bridge winners are Bernie Peterson in 1st, & Pat Carlson in 2nd.

Thur Oct 16th: Pool winners are Gary Snelling in 1st, Mary Fisher placed 2nd, Dean Elken with 3rd, Janet DeLong with 4th & Wendell Anderson with the consolation prize. Congratulations to all! Jen Tyman- Director

ABOUT THE TOWN: Observed a lot of government

not served in the best way, on both on national and state levels.

In years past I have observed a lot of government dealings held in the back room and not in the public. They hammered out legislation and programs that were for the benefit of everyone and when the conflict or debates were over, they went down to the corner bar and celebrated their accomplishments and maintained friendships.

The best example I remember was between Tip O’Neill and Ronald Reagan, who never lost the respect or friendship of each other.

Hollywood actor Clint Eastwood made it clear that we need to judge people by their actions, not their affiliations.

Free speech is important to maintain a democracy. Let’s protect it and practice it. Letters to the editor are welcome.

SCREW LOOSE

Some people who read this column think I have a screw loose in my head. That’s okay, because we appreciate your opinion. In fact, you have a right to express it.

The truth is after a recent dentist visit, a loose tooth was discovered in my mouth. Actually, it was the crown of an implant that was loose and not noticeable to me.

After detailed investigation by the dentist and removal of the crown, it was discovered that part of the screw in the implant was broken. He was able to get at least a temporary fix by screwing it in tighter, but it may mean having the implant replaced. Not fun. Now you can be honest when you suggest I have a screw loose.

POWER OF THE PRESS

The National Newspaper Association 139th Convention was held in Minneapolis on Oct. 9 and 10. This organization is special to Kathy and I as we served in leadership 39 years ago when the 100th anniversary was held in Minneapolis.

The interesting part of this association is it was founded by publishers meeting at the Chautauqua House in Mahtomedi in 1884.

Many of you know small newspapers and even large dailies have suffered losses, closures, mergers, and many changes in their approach to news reporting, especially with the impact of the internet.

This was very evident at the trade show, with all of the services provided by the vendors that relate to the use of the internet along with print media.

It’s always a good time to visit with friends, but there were fewer in attendance due to our aging. There were many second generations of both newspaper publishers as well as vendors.

Probably the best part is being able to visit with a variety of people over problem solving and to meet a number of our printing customers.

HARVEST MOON

The moon that is now closest to our planet with its size and color is a reminder that this is the harvest season. It’s amazing how corn and bean production has increased through the use of fertilizers and the development of the genetics. I remember the day when 100 bushels of corn per acre was considered great and now it’s over 200 bushels stretching toward 300 bushels per acre.

A little statistic that might not be well known is 30% of the corn is used for the development of ethanol, not food. That’s rather interesting when there are areas of the world that are suffering from starvation. Another factor this season is China has chosen not to buy soybeans from the United States, but rather from other countries in the world because of tariffs. This is tough on our farmers and the Department of Agriculture is seeking ways to provide a subsidy for this loss.

A PRAYER FOR ABUNDANCE

Deuteronomy 24:19 tells us, “When you are harvesting in your field and you overlook a sheaf, do

not go back to get it. Leave it for the foreigner, the fatherless and the widow, so that the Lord your God may bless you in all the work of your hands.” In a prayer to the Lord, “We praise you when the harvest is plenty. We thank you for abundance and overflow of goodness and blessings you give us. How humbled we are for your favor is our lives. As we find ourselves in a season of richness, may you cause our hearts to remember others. As your word instructs us, guide us to be helpers to those in need, givers to those who have less, and generous with our time, talents, and resources. We want to be obedient and faithful to you by giving to others the overflow of what we have, so that you would bless the work of our hands. We ask to be cheerful givers and to be representatives of your love in the world.”

FINISH THE JOB

Congress is acting like spoiled children when they can’t get together and solve problems that are in the best interest of the American people. So now they shut down government and many salaried people are living without an income. It’s time to fix the problem.

My suggestion is that people in Congress should not receive a paycheck when other people employed by the government are not getting paid. They need a taste of their own medicine.

Another solution, stay in town until you get the problem solved. Work day and night to get it completed.

The way it’s going, no one benefits.

GENE JOHNSON, Publisher Emeritus, Press Publications, White Bear Lake, MN can be contacted at ppinfo@presspubs.com.

Be the welcoming face of Amery Congregational Church!

We’re hiring a Part-Time Office Manager to keep our office organized and our community connected. 20 hrs/week.

To find out more about our Office Manager position, see our website at ameryucc.org under “Staff” Amery Congregational Church 201 N. Harriman Ave., Amery, WI

Career Planner – WIOA Services

Rice Lake Campus

Full-time/LTE (1950 hours/year)

Join Northwood Technical College as a full-time, limitedterm Career Planner and help adults and dislocated workers overcome employment barriers and re-enter the workforce with confidence. You’ll play a vital role in shaping futures and strengthening your community. This position will be serving out of the Eau Claire Job Center.

For

and to

What You’ll Do:

• Build and maintain relationships with local businesses

• Help clients create effective advertising campaigns that get results

This position is a great fit if you:

• have strong communication and customer service skills are motivated, organized, and goal-oriented enjoy working with people and being part of your community

We offer a supportive, local work environment where your ideas matter and your efforts make a real difference.

Compensation includes: Consistent base pay, commission, paid time off, health, vision, dental, life insurance, 401K and flexibility.

Send your resume to: Tom Stangl • tstangl@ameryfreepress.com P.O. Box 424 • Amery, WI 54001

Exciting Opportunities Available at Northwood Tech Helpdesk/Media

Rice Lake Campus (PT)

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.

Call Staff – Conference & Event Center

Rice Lake Campus (PT/On-Call)

Northwood Technical College is seeking friendly, detail-oriented individuals for a part-time/on-call Conference & Event Center Call Staff role. You'll provide exceptional customer service, support event operations, and assist with Talent & Culture projects in a dynamic, community-focused environment. If you’re flexible, hospitality-driven, and ready to make a difference, we want to hear from you! Learn

PUBLIC NOTICES

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT

POLK COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Jerry James Bender By (Petitioner) Jerry James Bender

Notice of Name Change Hearing Case No. 25CV270

NOTICE IS GIVEN:

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

From: Jerry James Bender

To: Jerry James Colbert Birth Certificate: Jerry James Bender

This Petition will be heard in the Circuit Court of Polk County, State of Wisconsin

TOWN OF VANCE CREEK NOTICE OF PUBLIC HEARING PROPOSED 2026 BUDGET

Notice is hereby given that on November 11th, 2025 at 7:30 P.M. at the Vance Creek Town Hall, 174 2nd Avenue, Co. Hwy. A, in Reeve, a Public Hearing on the Proposed 2026 Budget of the Town of Vance Creek will be held. Immediately following completion of the Public Budget Hearing on the proposed 2026 budget, a special town meeting of the electors, called by the town board pursuant to Section 60.12 (1) (c) of Wisconsin Statutes will be held for the following purposes:

1. Elector vote for exceeding the levy limit to increase to 32.4%

2. To adopt the 2025 town tax levy to be paid in 2026 pursuant to Section 60.10 (1) (a) of Wis. Statutes

3. To approve the total year 2026 highway expenditures pursuant to Section 81.01 of Wis. Statutes. Lisa Norberg Town of Vance Creek - Deputy Clerk WNAXLP

AMENDED

TOWN OF ALDEN NOTICE OF OPEN BOOK ASSESSMENT EXAMINATION

Pursuant to Sec. 70.45 of Wis. Statues the assessment roll for the Year 2025 assessment will be open for examination on Saturday, November 1, 2025, at the Town Hall located at 183 155th Street, Star Prairie, Wisconsin from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. The Open Book session provides property owners with the opportunity to informally discuss their assessments with the Town Assessor. Instructional material about the assessment and Board of Review procedures will be available at that time for information on how to file an objection and the Board of Review procedures under Wisconsin Law.

NOTICE OF BOARD OF REVIEW

Town of Alden, Board of Review will meet on Saturday, November 8, 2025, 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Alden Town Hall located at 183 155th Street, Star Prairie, Wisconsin, for the purpose of calling the Board of Review into session, pursuant to Wisconsin Statutes Sec. 70.47 (1).

a. No person will be allowed to contest the assessment at the board of review if the person has refused a reasonable request by certified mail of the assessor to view the property.

b. After the first meeting of the board of review and before the board’s final adjournment, no person scheduled to appear before the board of review may contact or provide information to a member of the board except at a session of the board.

c. Persons objecting to their assessment must advise the board of review 48 hours in advance of their hearing if they are asking to remove one of the members of the board; and if so, which member is being asked to be removed; and the person’s estimate of the length of time the hearing on the person’s objection will take.

d. An objector must specify in writing the objector’s estimate of the value of the property and specify the information that the person used to arrive at that estimate. (This should be written on the objection form filed in advance of the hearing. More on when the objection should be filed later in this article).

e. If the assessor used the income method to value the property of a person (such as an apartment house or retail property), but the property owner refused to supply the assessor with information about income and expenses of the property, the property owner may not object before the board of review to the assessment.

Notice is hereby given this 2nd day of October, 2025 by:

Christine Genung, Town Clerk WNAXLP

before Honorable Jeffrey L. Anderson at 1005 W. Main St., Branch 2, Balsam Lake, WI 54810 on November 7, 2025 at 11:45 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.

WNAXLP (Oct. 7, 14, 21)

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT

POLK COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Emily Melinda Maier By (Petitioner) Emily Melinda Maier

Notice of Name

Change Hearing Case No. 25CV271

NOTICE IS GIVEN:

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

From: Emily Melinda Maier

To: Emily Melinda Cunningham

Birth Certificate: Emily Melinda Maier

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., Branch 1, Balsam Lake, WI 54810 on November 19, 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 transpor-

tation.

WNAXLP (Oct. 7, 14, 21)

STATE OF WISCONSIN CIRCUIT COURT

POLK COUNTY

IN THE MATTER OF THE NAME CHANGE OF Karen Irene Dixon

By (Petitioner) Nicole Ashley Dixon

By (Co-Petitioner) Tyler Patrick Ziehme

Notice of Name

Change Hearing Case No. 25CV278

NOTICE IS GIVEN:

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

From: Karen Irene Dixon

To: Karen Irene Ziehme

Birth Certificate: Karen Irene Dixon

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., Branch 1, Balsam Lake, WI 54810 on November 18, 2025 at 9:15 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 (3) weeks in a row prior to the date of the hearing in the Amery Free Press. WNAXLP (Oct. 21, 28, Nov. 4)

STANGL: Users nominate words for ‘banning’ annually

in a conversation?” asked Stephen from Sudbury, Ontario.

A classic offender, “utilize” proves that longer is not always better. Why complicate things when “use” works just fine? Everett from Cumby, Texas encourages readers to “Write like you talk,”

and added, “Lord, I hope you don’t talk like that.”

Yes, we understand your point— no need to verbally punctuate it. Overuse has turned “period” into a period we are ready to end. Theresa from Detroit, MI, recommends that we banish this word by putting it in a bottle and sending it out to sea.

NOTICE OF PUBLIC BUDGET HEARING FOR TOWN OF CLAYTON

Govern yourself accordingly. 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. Thanks for reading. I’ll keep in touch. Feel free to do the same.

Notice is hereby given that on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Town of Clayton Town Hall the Town Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed budget for 2026. The following is a summary of the proposed 2026 budget. A detailed account of the 2026 proposed budget is on file with the Town Clerk and can be obtained by contacting the clerk at 715-948-2564.

Notice is hereby given that on Thursday, November 13, 2025, at 7:00 p.m. at the Town of Clayton Town Hall the Town Board will hold a public hearing on the proposed budget for 2026. The following is a summary of the proposed 2026 budget. A detailed account of the 2026 proposed budget is on

with the Town Clerk and can be obtained by contacting the clerk at 715-948-2564.

The 2026 proposed budget does not contain the addition of any newly provided services or the deletion of any currently provided services.

NOTICE OF SPECIAL TOWN MEETING FOR THE TOWN OF CLAYTON

Notice is hereby given that on Thursday, November 13, 2025, immediately following the completion of the Public Budget Hearing, which begins at 7:00 p.m. at the Town of Clayton Town Hall, a Special Town Meeting of the electors is called pursuant to Sec. 60.12 (1) (c) of Wisconsin Statutes by the Town Board for the following purposes:

1. To adopt the Town tax levy to be paid in 2026 pursuant to Sec. 60.10 (1) (a) of Wis. Statutes.

to be petted but won’t sit on a lap. He sleeps in the bed, but always far enough away so we can’t touch him. He does not like being picked up or carried around, although he now tolerates it for a short while. Maybe living on the streets for a couple of years made him a little more independent. Maybe that’s just how he is made. But I think, as much as people and cats can understand one another, we’ve come to an understanding with Felix. He is part of our family. He misses us when we are gone. He always wants to know what we are doing. He purrs loudly and often. And he doesn’t bite our toes anymore—at least not very hard. Till next time, Carrie Photos and other things can be found on Facebook at CarrieClassonAuthor

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FINANCIAL ADVISORS

Richard A. Davis, CPA | Dirk A. Prindle, CPA

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

Adam P. Honl, CPA | Susan L. Hartman, CPA

301 Keller Ave. S, Amery, Wisconsin

Business: (715) 954-4995 Fax (715) 954-4998 www.carlsonsv.com

Payroll Services

WI (715) 268-2711 Clear Lake, WI (715) 263-4111 St. Croix Falls, WI (715) 483-3782 www.OverbyFinancial.com

FAX: 715-268-5300

Email: Tom Stangl, Publisher tstangl@theameryfreepress.com

Justin Runberg, Editor editor@theameryfreepress.com

Donna Jilk, Media/Sales Advisor marketing@theameryfreepress.com Laura Alvarez, Media Advisor marketing@theameryfreepress.com

Cindy Fouks, Public Notices legals@theameryfreepress.com

Diane Stangl, Office Manager dstangl@theameryfreepress.com

Sue VanBuskirk, Employment Ads classifieds@theameryfreepress.com

Nicole Gagner, Graphic Design ngagner@theameryfreepress.com

Rebecca LaMar, Graphic Design design@burnettcountysentinel.com

Twin Cities Live exposure expected to boost Amery business community

BY JUSTIN RUNBERG EDITOR@THEAMERYFREEPRESS.COM

Amery’s small-town character — from vintage treasures to homemade ice cream — reached tens of thousands of Twin Cities viewers this week as Twin Cities Live aired a feature filmed downtown. Local organizers say the exposure could bring a lasting boost in

visitors and online interest for the city’s business community.

Thanks to the partnership between the Amery AEDC and the owner of Bittersweet Homestead, Kim Castagnetta, Twin Cities Live visited Amery. While here, they featured three local businesses on their show: Bittersweet Homestead, Ellies Coffee and Ice Cream, and Ruby Mae’s Treasures.

By the end of July, the process of assembling a crew to promote the businesses and city began to pick up speed. Paul Shafer and his wife, fans of the show, started wondering why not Amery. Shafer reached out with a list of businesses that fit the demographic they target for the show. Finally, a sales representative from KTSP channel 5 contacted them to set up a meeting.

Later, Shaefer spoke with Castagnetta to get her perspective on the opportunity. Some customers who had previously stopped out recommended reaching out to the show based on what her store offered.

“There's a lot to choose from in Amery, but we tried to stay with a

demographic. And of course, everybody likes food, likes ice cream, so we thought of Ellie's Ice Cream and Coffee,” Shafer said. “And then we thought about one of our vintage shops, because again, we have several in town with Acme Junk and others. We talked with Ruby Mae's to see if they'd be interested because of the mural on the wall, plus their clock out front, so we kind of looked at those kinds of things. We did find out that three is the number of businesses that they would feature when they come live in a community, so that's why we went with three.”

The on-air personality is Kelly Hanson, and she arrived in town with her photographer. During her visit, she engaged with owners of all three businesses while recording b-roll footage for the story. B-roll offers additional footage to help visually expand the story for viewers at home.

Shafer believed that fall would be the best time to showcase the city before the holiday season to attract more foot traffic. He also saw it as a good opportunity for extra

marketing for the whole city. The show attracts about 86,000 viewers daily and is also broadcast on their sister stations, KAAL in Rochester and WDIO in Duluth. During the noon slot, WCCO, the closest competitor, has only around 35,000 viewers.

Although KTSP stopped by this time to check out what the city has to offer, Shafer was involved in a similar situation back in 2017. Back then, it was WCCO that stopped by, and afterward, showed the value of having the news station highlight the city.

“I know some of the stores at the time got a lot of big bumps in business because people saw and they were kind of flocking to Main Street if you will,” Shafer said. “All of our stores, all our business owners have a way to promote stuff on their website, and collectively the city's website, etc and that kind of thing. But getting the exposure to the Twin Cities, it's pretty huge.”

The segment aired on October 16. If you missed it and want to watch, it will be available on Twin Cities Live’s website at www.twincitieslive.com. A link will also be sent to the owners so they can view and share it on their social media or website. The link for the story will expire after one year.

NowI’vegot tofigureoutmycostume!

Trick-or-Treat only at houses that are well-lighted.

Read the clues to fill in the crossword:

Fun!

Happy Halloween!

I’ve just finished carving my jack-o’-lantern. I’m going to use a batteryoperated light in it.

It is the season of costume making, witches and bats in flight, spooky parties and favorite candy treats. All of this fun, fun, fun fills my mind, but I also know that it’s important to follow a few safety rules while celebrating.

1. October 31, __________, is a time of pumpkin patch visits, parties, parades and special treats!

2. A __________ is lighted and grins from the porch.

lots of chooses to do! We’re making orange popcorn balls.

3. People dress up in ___________ and turn into pirates, clowns and princesses.

4. Kids ___________ up and down the streets.

5. Battery-powered ___________ glow, lighting their way.

6. Doorbells ring, __________ of candy and small toys are tossed into bags.

7. Zombies and __________ sit in the graveyard placed in the neighbor’s front yard.

8. A __________ stirs her cauldron, mixing a potion and casting a spell.

9. Tractor-powered __________ creep through fields full of spooky creatures.

10. __________ roam a school’s hallways tonight, flying from room to room.

11. A haunted ___________ gives us “scares” and we laugh with friends and family.

12. A dog howls, an ________ hoots, a cat hisses and children shout.

13. A giant web spun by a hairy __________ hangs in the corner of a porch.

14. A full __________ glows and lights up the houses and streets below.

15. The next morning the sun rises and all the creatures and shadows of the night __________.

My sister, brother and I are ready for the parade!

Sweet Treats - Counting up the Goodies Who Am I ?

6 lemon drops 2 peppermint patties + 3 small toys 13 lollipops 17 chocolate bars + 4 popcorn balls 8 coins + 5 mini bags of candy corn = This is my bag full of treats! treats treats treats treats total treats in bag treats treats +

Our eyesight may not be too good, but we have an echolocation system. This means that we make sounds and “listen” for returning echoes. We can find anything in the dark!

...in your candy bag is fun. Add up each group of treats, then total all the goodies to find out how many treats are in the ghost’s bag.

CHOCOLATE

1. I roam at night: my black cape and sharp fangs give people a fright!

Very good arch. Now practice your hissing!

3. I wear a pointy black hat; I fly with my broom and my cat!

4. Yo Ho! I have a dagger and a hook; I’ve hidden a treasure map in a book!

2. I have hair almost everywhere! A full moon makes me howl in the air!

Spooooooky Sayings!

Match each saying to its meaning!

and

E.

F.

G. to have nothing to say

H. only a very small chance of success

I. to search for people to find guilty

J.

5. I arch my back when I smell a rat; I hiss and spit I am a black...

Hey! So, what’s the problem with turning into a pumpkin at midnight?

Trick-or-Treat only at houses that are well-lighted.

1. skeletons in your closet

2. cat got your tongue

3. as the crow flies

4. to turn into a pumpkin

5. to start a witch-hunt

6. blind as a bat

7. white as a ghost

8. scaredy-cat

9. a ghost of a chance

10. like a kid in a candy store

Happy Halloween!

Spooooooky

Sayings!

A. very nervous; fearful

B. to stay out late

C. dark or shameful secrets you keep hidden

D. the straightest possible path

E. happy and excited

F. very pale; frightened

G. to have nothing to say

H. only a very small chance of success

I. to search fro people to find guilty

J. not able to see very well