The April Youth Optimist of the Month is Riley Humphrey, nominated by Mr. Dale Nelson.

“Riley’s optimistic attitude is very present in classrooms and hallways. He is a positive presence for his friends as he is very engaging. His great smile, eye contact, and communication gives me total confidence in his ability to do anything and everything. There is no doubt that he is a natural leader in the high school.” Mr. Nelson also comments that, “Riley accepts all challenges in the classroom; he is a top achieving student in his class. Everyone knows who Riley is when his name is mentioned, and the comments and feedback are always positive. The PLT spaces at the high school, which Riley helped design, are performing well due to his good vision and planning.”

Riley has been active with the debate team, Badger Boys State, and has helped at the Painted Sunset Ranch. He was also a class officer and the class president.

After high school, Riley plans to attend UW-Oshkosh for Political Science, then attend Madison Law School. “I aspire to move to Washington D.C. and work as part of the attorney general’s legal team,” he said.

Riley is the son of Laurie Humphrey.

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While most highway construction is being put on hold, motorists will likely encounter work zones requiring reduced speed, extra caution

To enhance traffic flow and accommodate higher traffic volumes expected over the Memorial Day weekend, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) will temporarily halt construction work on many highway improvement projects across the state. Although workers will open as many highway lanes as possible, motorists should still allow extra travel time and expect slower traffic in work zones and during peak travel periods.

Construction in most highway work zones will stop by noon on Friday, May 25, and will not resume until 6 a.m. on Tuesday, May 29. Peak travel times for the holiday weekend are expected to occur between noon and 8 p.m. on both Friday, May 25, and Monday, May 28.

“For the safety of motorists and workers, most highway construction is being put on hold for the holiday weekend, but drivers will still need to be patient and alert for slowing traffic, especially in work zones,” said WisDOT Secretary Dave Ross. “The State Patrol and other law enforcement agencies will be out enforcing traffic laws and assisting stranded motorists. We’re asking all motorists to plan ahead, buckle up, watch their speed and celebrate responsibly.”

To help prevent traffic deaths and injuries, law enforcement agencies across Wisconsin are watching for unbuckled motorists as part of the Click It or Ticket mobilization that continues through June 3rd. Other important traffic safety reminders:

Posted speed limits apply to ideal travel conditions. Drivers are required to slow to a “reasonable and prudent” speed based on weather and traffic conditions.

State law allows law enforcement to stop and cite motorists for failing to wear a safety belt. Drivers can also be cited for every unbuckled passenger in their vehicle. Penalties are higher for transporting unrestrained children.

Except for emergencies, it is illegal in Wisconsin for drivers to use a handheld mobile device in work zones. Texting while driving is prohibited at all times.

The state’s Move Over law requires drivers to slow down or shift lanes when coming upon emergency response vehicles stopped along a roadway with warning lights flashing. This includes police and fire vehicles, ambulances, tow trucks and highway maintenance vehicles.

Significant road construction projects that may impact Memorial Day weekend travel:

Milwaukee County: work continues on the Zoo Interchange project with a new traffic pattern in place. Closures include the system ramp from I-94 westbound to I-41/894 southbound. Access to I-94 westbound is restricted at 84th Street. The ramp remains open for traffic going to I-94 westbound or I-41 northbound. Various other on and off ramps remain under construction with detours posted.

Milwaukee County: there is ongoing work along I-94 and the Marquette Interchange. Lane and ramp restrictions are in place on the High Rise/Valley Bridge. The ramp from I-94 eastbound to head southbound over the bridge is closed with a detour using the nearby Hoan Bridge (I-794).

Milwaukee County: ongoing work along I-894 between 84th St. and National Ave. A traffic shift is in place, along with a lane closed from I-43 northbound to I-894 northbound in the Hale Interchange.

I-94 in Kenosha and Racine counties has impacts from the I-94 North-South project and local work due to the Foxconn development. Northbound lanes have only minimal ongoing work and no lane restrictions. Southbound I-94 is down to two lanes at County G in Racine County. Extensive delays are anticipated both Sunday and Monday as motorists return from up north. A reduced speed limit is in place for the southbound lanes between County G and WIS 142 in Kenosha County.

Racine County: US 45 north of Union Grove is closed to traffic as the roadway is reconstructed. Detours are posted.

Walworth County: WIS 67 is closed to through traffic between Williams Bay and Elkhorn near the Lake Geneva Area. A detour route is posted along I-43 and WIS 50.

Walworth County: work along WIS 120 near Lake Geneva will require a 30-day closure of the US 12 interchange ramps beginning May 29. Motorists are being detoured to the nearby WIS 50 interchange.

Dane and Rock counties: motorists on I-39/90 should be alert for lane shifts and crossovers.

Dane County: Verona Road (US 18/151): motorists should be alert for lane shifts and reduced speeds.

US 151 in Dane and Columbia counties: traffic is shifted and reduced to two lanes of traffic between Sun Prairie and Columbus.

I-41 near US 10 in Winnebago County: northbound and southbound lanes of I-41 are reduced to two lanes in each direction and have a 55 mph speed reduction and lane shifts throughout the WIS 441 Tri-Project work zone. Eastbound and westbound US 10 also have reduced lanes and lane shifts with a 55 mph speed reduction through the work zone.

Winnebago County: WIS 116 in the village of Omro and the village of Winneconne is closed and detoured. The Omro detour route includes WIS 21 to I-41 to US 45; the Winneconne detour route includes US 45 to US 41 to WIS 21.

Manitowoc County: US 10 is closed and detoured in the village of Whitelaw. The detour route includes I-43 to US 151 and County W.

Winnebago, Calumet and Outagamie counties: eastbound and westbound US 10 have reduced lanes and lane shifts with a 55 mph speed reduction throughout the WIS 441 work zone.

Brown County: northbound and southbound lanes of US 41/US 141 at the County B interchange in the village of Suamico have reduced speeds (55 mph) and lane shifts.

Waupaca and Outagamie counties: WIS 96 is closed and detoured at the US 45 intersection via WIS 110, US 10 and WIS 76.

Portage County: WIS 54 over I-39 is reduced to a single lane with temporary traffic signals controlling one-way movements (no impacts are anticipated on I-39).

Iron County: US 2 between WIS 122 and County B is reduced to a single lane with temporary traffic signals at a railroad crossing bridge.

Oneida and Vilas counties: US 51/WIS 47 Woodruff/Arbor Vitae is reduced to one lane in each direction with a 12-foot width restriction.

Price County: WIS 182 in the city of Park Falls is reduced to one lane with temporary signals at the Flambeau River Bridge.

Dunn County: US 12 (Broadway Street) bridge in Menomonee – all traffic will be single lane on the westbound structure.

St. Croix County: I-94 (WIS 35 – US 12) in Hudson will have nighttime single and double lane closures. Various ramps will be closed with signed detours.

Douglas County: US 2/Belknap St. in Superior will have single lane closures from Hill Ave. to Ogden Ave. A signed truck detour and alternate route are available.

Bayfield County: US 2 bridge in Iron River – traffic is reduced to a single lane.

Chippewa County: WIS 124 near the town of Eagle Point is closed for bridge construction. Detour route includes County S, US 53 and WIS 64.

For up-to-the-minute information on work zones and incidents that may affect highway travel, motorists can access the state’s 511 travel information system by downloading the free 511 Wisconsin mobile app or following @511WI on Twitter. Users can also access the system by dialing 511 on a phone or visiting 511wi.gov on the web.

Wisconsin Division of Motor Vehicle customer service centers will be closed on Memorial Day, but citizens can conduct DMV business online 24/7 at wisconsindmv.gov.

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By Jared Schmeltzer
Reporter

On Thursday night several Merrill track athletes competed in the sectional track meet at D.C. Everest High School. Merrill’s Jared Olhoff took first in the triple jump, qualifying him for the state track meet next weekend (June 1-2), at UW-La Crosse.

Following up his top placing at the regional meet, Olhoff also won the triple jump at sectional with a jump of 44-03.00. Olhoff also competed in the boys long jump, placing sixth at sectional with a jump of 20-11.00, right behind Merrill teammate Adam Laehn, who placed fifth with a jump of 21-01.00.

For the Merrill boys runners, Dominic Laufenberg had a nice showing in his first sectional meet, placing eighth in the 1600 meter run with a time of 4:44.64. Taron Gutowski placed eighth in the 400 meter dash, running a time of 53.74.

Autumn Schenzel qualified for sectional in the 100 meter dash and would place fifth at sectional with a run of 12.99 seconds. Schenzel and three other Merrill girls including Faith Seliger, Dalie Thomas, and Brielle Thorson competed in the 4×200 meter relay and would end up with a sixth place finish, running a time of 1:49.89. Thomas would also compete in the 800 meter run, finishing with a time of 2:31.51, good enough to earn a sixth place finish. Schenzel and Faith Seliger competed in the 200 meter dash, with Schenzel finishing in fourth with a time of 26.83 seconds and Seliger taking sixth place with a time of 27.48 seconds.

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The Hatchet softball team got off to a great start in the post-season, crushing Wautoma 15-0 in the regional semi-final Thursday night. The mercy rule ended the game after four innings. Tomahawk hurler Rachel Dallman was dominant in the circle, pitching a perfect game.

“Rachel Dallman controlled the game from the start,” said Hatchet coach John Larson. “She faced the minimum, tossed a no hitter and as a result tossed a perfect game. She struck out 8 of the 12 batters she faced. Rachel did a nice job of moving the ball around and changing speed.”

The Tomahawk offense pounded out 12 hits in the game.

“Offensively we did a good job of adjusting to the speed of Wautoma’s pitching,” Larson said. “We were patient and disciplined at the plate and as a result hit the ball very well.”

Whitney Osero had a big night at the plate going 3-3 with 2 doubles and 2 RBI’s. Jordyn Kaminski, Megan Marcks and Haley Voermans-Dean also had two hits each.

“We also continue to run the bases very well,” Larson added. “We are always looking for that extra base and I really like how aggressive we are. The girls do a good job of taking advantage of any little miscue by our opponent. We ended the night also with eight stolen bases.”

While Wautoma wasn’t able to generate any offense, Tomahawk’s defense recorded no errors on the night.

“Biggest thing is that when your pitcher is in complete control of the game, you can get lulled to sleep,” Larson noted. “We did a good job of staying focused and when we needed to make a play we did.”

Tomahawk now hosts Peshtigo today in the Regional Championship game.

“We had an awesome crowd behind us on Wednesday,” Larson said. “I hope we can get that same crowd at the field on Friday.”

The Hatchets finished 9-3 in the Great Northern Conference and own a 12-7 overall record this season.

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Another successful regular season wrapped up last week for the Tomahawk Hatchet varsity softball team and senior Shortstop/Pitcher Courtney Theiler proved to be a key element to the ladies’ 9-3, 2^nd place finish in the Great Northern Conference (GNC).

Theiler not only finished her final season in Hatchet uniform as the GNC’s RBI leader (20), but also finished as the second ranked hitter in the conference (24) and second ranked overall batter with a .558 batting average.

A four-year member of the softball team, this past winter Theiler wrapped up a 4-year varsity career on the Hatchet Girls Basketball team as well as a 4-year varsity tenure on the Hatchet varsity volleyball squad last fall.

Aside from sports, Courtney has served three-years as a member of the THS Varsity Club, two-years on the THS Science Club and two-years as a member of the THS Student Council. When she does have free time, Courtney enjoys spending time with family and friends.

Daughter of Teri and Matt Theiler of Tomahawk, Courtney currently maintains a flawless 4.0 GPA. Following graduation in June, Courtney will move on to attend UW-Eau Claire; majoring in Nursing.

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By DNR Conservation Warden Curt Butler

For a lot of people, getting out on the water in a boat is one of their favorite ways to enjoy Wisconsin summers. That’s why it is important you go through your boat to make sure you have the required safety equipment — and it is all in good working order – before you hit the water.
I find that no matter what I do, every winter a mouse always finds a way into my boat and chews on something that I will have to replace. If you don’t detect and fix the problem on land before you launch, it will appear during your outing. It is common for people to use their boat all day. Then at sunset, when they need boat lights, the boater learns those needed boat lights are not working like they did last year. This could all be avoided by checking your boat lights prior to sunset and before you head out on the water because you will need them.

Lincoln County is home to many rivers, streams and dams which have fast-moving water that can
become hazardous. One of my greatest fears is getting caught in a dam or pinned under a tree and
ultimately drowning. That being said, the dams should be avoided as they can create dangerous
recirculating currents, which can drown a person or even a whole boat. The rivers and streams can have
rapid sections and downed trees, which pose hazards to boaters.
Also, there is a new law that creates an option for boat operators towing water skiers in lieu of the
traditional observer requirement. A motorboat equipped with a mirror that provides the operator with a
wide field of vision to the rear is no longer required to also having an observer in the boat. Here are a
few things to keep in mind:

* An actual spotter is recommended to safely observe towed participants.
* Boaters are encouraged to consult with their boat manufacturers and watercraft
accessory retailers for recommendations.
* Operators should use good judgment in selecting a mirror that will allow them to easily
and safely monitor their towed participants, while ensuring its mounting does not
obstruct the field of view required for them to maintain a safe lookout.

Keep in mind, however, certain municipalities have options to enact local ordinances still requiring the observer. So, if you travel to an unfamiliar body of water you should read the posted signs or check with your local law enforcement agency about local regulations. Always remember to have the required life jackets and you’re encouraged to wear them while on the water. Fall overboard or capsizing is the leading type of boating incident and wearing a life jacket could
save your life should this this occur – Wear It Wisconsin.

As always before you go afield, review the regulation pamphlet specific to your activity. For questions not found in the regulation pamphlets, contact WDNR call center staff available 7 days a week (7 a.m.-10 p.m.) call toll free 1-888-WDNRINFo (1-888-936-7463). Also, to report WDNR violations call 1-800-TIP- WDNR (1-800-847-9367) 24/7, 365 days a year, or contact me at (715) 416-0068.

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This week’s featured question was submitted for an officer of the Tomahawk Police Department.
The question reads:
“I was told it is illegal and I can get a ticket for riding my four wheeler in the city after dark even with headlights on and even on roads marked for ATV’s, is this true? If so, is there a set curfew or time ATV’s have to be off the roads? What is the reason for this if headlights and tail lights are working fine? Are there any other rules I should know about? I tried looking around online but couldn’t find much. Thank you”

Answer as given by Tomahawk Police Officer Alysia Watruba:

Tomahawk Police Officer Alysia Watruba

“There is nothing in state statute, county or city ordinance which states it’s illegal to operate an ATV or UTV during the hours of darkness as long as you have legal headlamp(s) and tail lamp(s). There is not a curfew for ATV or UTVs. The state statute addressing the question regarding specific ATV or UTV headlamp(s) and tail lamp(s) is in state statute 23.33(6).

“You can look this up online under Wisconsin State Statutes and then search for this specific statute. There are other laws/city ordinances to be aware of regarding the operation of ATV or UTVs. The PD currently has Lincoln/Oneida County ATV/UTV maps regarding routes/trails and some of the general laws are listed. If you have specific questions regarding ATV or UTV operation you can call your local law enforcement agency, or DNR warden.”

Have a question or concern you would like to address? Simply send your question or concern to jratliff@mmclocal.com along with an indication of which entity your question or concern pertains to. Current participants are the Merrill Police Department, Tomahawk Police Department, Merrill City Administrator Dave Johnson, Merrill Area Housing Authority Director Paul Russell, Lincoln County Clerk Chris Marlowe, Lincoln County Forestry Land and Parks Director Kevin Kleinschmidt, local DNR Conservation Warden Curt Butler and Merrill Area Public Schools (MAPS) Superintendent Dr. John Sample. Please note: Those who submit to the ‘Ask an Official’ feature remain anonymous.

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Beatrice Catherine (Blaisdell) Zastrow, age 83, of Merrill, formerly of Neillsville, WI, died on Saturday, May 26, 2018 at Good Samaritan Hospital, Merrill.

Beatrice was born on February 18, 1935 in Minocqua, WI to the late John Wm “Jack” and Clara M. (Zimmerman) Blaisdell.  She graduated from Merrill High School.  Beatrice married Franklin Zastrow on August 4, 1956 at First Presbyterian Church, Merrill. He preceded her in death.

Beatrice worked for Cardinal’s Resort in Trout Lake, WI,   the former Holy Cross Hospital as a nurse’s aide, and Abby Vans Inc, Neillsville.  She also served as Den Mother for Boy Scouts Pack 402 and was involved in many church groups.  Beatrice enjoyed sewing, tending to her house plants, traveling, fishing, camping, and especially time spent doing things with her children and grandchildren.

Beatrice is survived by her sons; Steven E. (Julie) of Merrill, Leon D. of Menasha, Mark A. (Yvonne) of Wausau, and Michael L. of Neillsville; daughter Catherine (Corey) Dornbrack of Merrill, grandchildren; Stephanie (Tim) Koller, Brenda (Don) Gardner, and Marcus Zastrow, and Laura (Tyler Linzmeier) Jones and Kevin Jones , Carl and Rose Dornbrack; and one great grandson Anthony Linzmeier, son-in-law; Mark (Peggy) Jones.

Besides her parents and husband, she is preceded in death by her son; Clay Franklin, daughter; Cynthia Marie Jones and sister; Jacqueline Blaisdell.

Graveside Service will be held at 2:00 pm on Thursday, May 31 at the Town of Levis Cemetery, Neillsville WI.

Waid Funeral Home & Cremation Service of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements.  Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

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A 20-year-old Tomahawk woman was injured Monday morning after a one vehicle rollover in the Town of King. The woman was traveling west on County Rd .D when she went off the side of the road, over corrected and then went off the roadway on the south side of the road. The driver was transported by Tomahawk EMS to Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital for treatment of minor injuries.

An 18-year-old Merrill man was arrested Monday morning on a warrant charge. Deputies went to a home off of State Rd. 107 in the Town of Merrill and arrested the man for violating the terms of his probation.

A 56-year-old Tomahawk man was taken into custody Wednesday evening for a traffic violation. Tomahawk Police requested deputies be on the lookout for a vehicle that was involved in a hit and run crash in the city of Tomahawk. Just before 6 p.m. a deputy found the vehicle on County Rd. D and found that the operator was intoxicated. The man was cited for a first offense of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated and will face a criminal charge for the crash.

A 55-year-old Illinois man was arrested early Thursday morning after leading deputies in Lincoln County on a high speed chase. A deputy was traveling on US Hwy. 51 just after midnight when the saw the vehicle traveling in excess of 100 MPH near County Rd. S. The deputy pursued the vehicle north on US Hwy. 51 but stopped the pursuit after the vehicle exited at US Hwy. 8 and was no longer in sight. A short time later an Oneida County deputy came across a vehicle matching the description of the suspect vehicle rolled off the roadway on US Hwy. 8 near County Rd. N in the Town of Woodboro. The driver who is from Ingleside, IL was transported by Oneida County EMS to Ascension Sacred Heart Hospital where he was treated and released. He was cited for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated and charged with a felony for knowingly fleeing an officer.

A 32-year-old Merrill man was arrested Thursday morning on a warrant charge. The deputy who performs security in the court house was aware the man at a court hearing was wanted for violating the terms of his probation and arrested him on the warrant issued by the Department of Corrections.

A 16-year-old Rhinelander youth will be referred to social services after fleeing from a deputy this past Friday evening. The deputy was on patrol on State Rd. 17 north of Gleason when he spotted a vehicle traveling at 90 MPH in the 55 MPH zone. When the deputy tried to stop the vehicle the driver accelerated and turned down a town road and then onto a logging road. Oneida County Deputies came to the scene and helped locate the suspect in the woods. He will be cited for the speed offense and referred to the court on a felony charge of fleeing. The driver and his 14-year-old passenger were both released to their parents.

Deputies reported heavy traffic through the county during most of the weekend. Increased patrols were conducted on US Hwy. 51 for aggressive and impaired drivers. Over 20 complaints about driving were received in the past week and 16 disabled motorists were checked on.

The Recreation Deputy reported a busy weekend for outdoor enthusiasts. He reminds you to make sure your boat is equipped with enough flotation devices before you hit the water and you operate your watercraft in a safe manner watching out for no wake signs and other occupied vessels. On Sunday evening the Rec. Deputy and the Town of Russell Fire Department searched the Harrison Hills area after two parties were reported to be missing on an ATV. The parties were eventually located at Otter Lake Campground where one claimed an injury after falling off of the machine but refused medical transport.

The number of car deer crashes has gone up considerably in the past week with 14 being reported. A Minocqua woman struck a bear on Saturday night on US Hwy. 51 near County Rd. H killing the animal.

The post Lincoln County Sheriff’s reports appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

May 21
8:27 a.m.- Officers made contact with a female party after receiving a call to check her welfare. During the contact, dispatch advised the female and a male party at the residence both had warrants for their arrest. Both parties were taken into custody and transported to the jail.
5:23 p.m.- Officers responded to a probation violation complaint. The caller stated a male party was at an elementary school and was a registered sex offender. Contact was made with the male party who stated his agent had told him he could be at the school event. Contact was made with probation and parole and the male was in violation of his rules. He was arrested for the probation violation.
9:52 p.m.- Officers were dispatched to a domestic complaint. The caller stated they could hear a male and a female arguing inside a residence and a baby crying. Contact was made with the male and female at the residence. The female had injuries consistent with her version of events. The male party was arrested for domestic disorderly conduct and domestic battery.

May 22
3:25 p.m.- Officers responded to a disorderly conduct complaint. The reporting party advised there was a disagreement at a residence and one male party was arrested on a probation violation.
4:25 p.m.- An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle for a moving violation. The driver displayed signs of impairment and after an investigation was arrested for operating with a prohibited alcohol concentration.

May 23
8:56 a.m.- A male was arrested for a probation violation at the request of Probation & Parole.
10:43 a.m.- A male was arrested for a probation violation at the request of Probation & Parole.
3:34 p.m.- A male was arrested for a probation violation at the request of Probation & Parole.

May 24
10:38 a.m.- A male was arrested for a probation violation at the request of Probation & Parole.

May 25
6:12 a.m.- Officers responded to a damage to property complaint. The caller advised they had a brick thrown through their car window overnight. Investigation is ongoing.
4:16 p.m.- An officer responded to a damage to property complaint. The caller advised a vehicle had drove into their garage door and left the scene. Investigation is ongoing.
11:42 p.m.- Officers responded to a noise complaint. The caller advised there was what sounded like a party coming from the residence. Officers could hear loud music and voices coming from the residence. Contact was attempted and all parties hid inside the residence. Three parties did come outside and they were spoken to. One party was located later after being observed leaving the residence. The male was cited for underage drinking.

May 26
6:11 p.m.- Officers were dispatched to a juvenile who was out of control. Officers made contact with the caller and juvenile. The juvenile admitted to smoking a cigarette as a way to act out. The juvenile’s social worker will be advised. 8:41 p.m.- Officers responded to a local business for a probation violation. Contact was made with the suspect who has probation rules to not be at the business. The male was arrested for the probation violation.

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Friday evening, 154 graduating seniors crossed the stage as part of the 135th Merrill High School Commencement Ceremony at the MHS Field House. Joining the class of 2018 (the smallest graduating class in 62 years) were members of the MAPS Board Of Education, MAPS administration and faculty.

Despite being one of the smallest classes in school history, according to information from MHS administration, it will certainly be a busy class, as the 154 teens embark on their respective post-secondary paths.

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Speaking of "The Past," Catherine Murray was among the student speakers who addressed their classmates during the commence ceremony.

Nerarly 80% of the entire class plans to pursue post-secondary education, as 71 reported plans to attend a four-year university and 48 plan to attend NTC. Eight plan to pursue military careers and 27 plan to immediately enter the work force. This year’s graduating class not only leaves their mark based on numbers, but has also re-written the books on the most scholarships earned in school history ($2 million) and thanks in part to the class of 2018, more advanced placement tests were taken this school year than any other year in school history. The MHS Youth Apprenticeship Program has now become the largest in the state.

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The Merrill Noon Optimists put up a fund raising gauge at Normal Park last week as they intensify their efforts to construct an all-inclusive playground at the park.

Through mostly private donations, the Optimists have thus far raised over $65,000 toward a goal of $175,000 to complete the first phase of the project. The playground will be accessible to all children, including those with handicaps.

The completed playground will feature 42 play events, capable of accommodating 187 users ages five to 12. The playground will occupy an area of 114×65 feet at the southwest corner of Normal Park.

According to Optimists president Carrie Kennedy, the group will now start the grant writing process as it seeks larger donations.

The Magic Paper Boxes, which appeared around Merrill last year, continue to be a fund raising source for the playground project. Merrill residents are asked to deposit their newspapers, magazines and junk mail in the boxes, with the recycling proceeds to benefit the playground. Boxes are located at Cenex, the Eagles Club, Jenny Towers, Dave’s County Market, the Sixth Ward Holiday station and Pine Ridge Mobil. Some local businesses have also raised funds or made donations to the project. A portion of the Optimist cheese curd sales also go toward the playground fund.

Phase I of the project will cover the major pieces of play equipment and the rubber matting play surface. The city of Merrill has agreed to donate the site prep work and Peterson Sand & Gravel has agreed to donate the fill material.

Kennedy said the Optimists plan to break ground on the playground next year.

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By Jared Schmeltzer
Reporter

On Tuesday night the Merrill softball team traveled to Mosinee for sectional softball action. Merrill was the first team to score, however was unable to hold their lead as they lost by a score of 5-1.

Kelsie Belfiori got Merrill started, leading off the game with a solo home run to center field. Patience Pyan then singled, followed by a Madix Bonnell walk. The Jays weren’t able to score those runners as they finished the inning leading 1-0. In the bottom of the second inning Mosinee responded with a home run of their own. A single got a runner on base and Osowski of Mosinee homered to center field, giving Mosinee the lead.

In the bottom of the fourth inning, Mosinee added to their lead with a solo homer leading off the inning. With Mosinee up 3-1 in the sixth inning they would add two more runs on another Osowski home run. The game would end with Mosinee scornig five runs to Merrill’s one.

As a team Merrill was only able to come up with four hits. Belfiori led the Merrill offense, going 2-3 with a solo home run. Pyan would end with one hit, as would Madi Weix.

Taylor Krueger pitched the whole game for the Jays, going six innings, allowing five runs on seven hits.

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EMALEE ALEXANDER- Carl & Wella Orin Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

TYLER BAADE- Lincoln Co. Medical Society Scholarship; Merrill Baseball Assoc. & Golf Outing Scholarship; ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Gold Tassel

ZHANE BARLOR- * GI Bill (US Army)

NICHOLAS BAUMANN- Walter & Mabel Fromm Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

OLIVIA BAUMANN- ** Gold Tassel

ALLISON BECKER- Carl & Wella Orin Scholarship; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** Gold Tassel

LEA BECKMAN- Eagles Auxiliary #584 Scholarship; Optimist Club Scholarship; * Horatio Alger Assoc. Wisconsin Scholarship; * Merrill Ice Reflections Figure Skating Club Scholarship; ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

LOGAN BENNETT- Genevieve Bowell Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

ASHLIN BERRY- * Academic Scholarship (Mary Baldwin Univ.); * GI Bill (US Air Force); ** Gold Tassel

BONNIE BLAISE- Park City Credit Union Scholarship; William T. Evjue Memorial Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

KOBE BLAKE- Eagles Auxiliary #584 Scholarship; Merrill Baseball Assoc. & Golf Outing Scholarship; Pine River Elementary School Scholarship; Silver M Club Scholarship in Memory of Arnold Krombholz; * Frank J. Steffes Memorial Scholarship (UW-Marathon Co.); ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

ZACHARY BOEHM- Martin & Marcella Lahni Scholarship; Robert & Jo Ann Opsahl Scholarship; * Staats Memorial Scholarship (Saint Stephens United Church of Christ); * Polytechnic Scholarship (UW-Stout); ** Gold Tassel

NOAH BOLLING- Lee J. & Lillian Leidiger O’Reilley UW-Madison Scholarship; Merrill Wrestling Club Scholarship; Walter & Mabel Fromm Scholarship; * American Legion Scholarship; ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** President’s Education Award; ** Gold Tassel

KADE BONNELL- Silver M Club Scholarship in Memory of Arvo Britten; * Neale Alumni Honors Freshman Scholarship (UW-Stevens Point); * Pointer Scholarship (UW-Stevens Point); ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

MADDIX BONNELL- Ronald & Ellen Nicklaus Scholarship; * Pointer Scholarship (UW-Stevens Point); ** Klug Award; ** MHS Hall of Fame Inductee; ** US Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Award; ** WIAA Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** President’s Education Award; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

STEVIE BOOHER- Genevieve Bowell Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

MEGAN BREWER- David & Emily Streich Scholarship; Jefferson Elementary School Scholarship; * Robert & Ruby Neugebauer Scholarship (UW-Marathon Co.); ** MHS Outstanding Artist of the Year; ** Gold Tassel

DELANEY CAMPBELL- Blanche Krueger Youth Bowling Scholarship; ** MHS Outstanding Band Member Award; ** Gold Tassel

LINDSEY CASPER- Dr. Jerome Mayersak – Urology Specialists of WI Scholarship; Kiwanis Club Scholarship; * First Impressions, SC Scholarship (NTC); ** Mickelson Award; ** MHS Hall of Fame Inductee; ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** Gold Tassel

DOMINIC DAVIS- ** Gold Tassel

IVAN DEBROUX- Agra Industries Designing Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

ADAM DETERT- Walter & Mabel Fromm Scholarship; * EATS Scholarship (UW-Marathon Co.); ** Mickelson Award; ** MHS Hall of Fame Inductee; ** Richard V. Geiger Memorial Award; ** US Marine Corps Distinguished Athlete Award; ** WIAA Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** Gold Tassel

CHRISTINA DOERING- Merrill Police Department Scholarship; Park City Credit Union Scholarship; Rotary Club Technical College Scholarship; * Employee’s Children Scholarship (Church Mutual Insurance Co.); * Weinbrenner Shoe Co. Scholarship (NTC); ** Gold Tassel

JULIA DOWIS- ** MHS Daughters of the American Revolution Good Citizen Award; ** President’s Education Award; ** Gold Tassel

BRADLEY DRAXLER- Walter & Mabel Fromm Scholarship; * Merit Scholarship (UW-Platteville); ** President’s Education Award; ** Gold Tassel

RACHEL ELLERMAN- Ascension Good Samaritan Scholarship; Marshfield Clinic Health Scholarship; * Bierman Family Foundation Scholarship (NTC); * Employee Children Scholarship (EO Johnson Business Technologies); * Technical Excellence Scholarship (State of Wisconsin); ** Gold Tassel

ALLYSON ENGLISH- Haunted Sawmill Scholarship

TORI FOLZ- ** MHS Outstanding Artist of the Year

LANI FORD- WA Marquardt Scholarship; ** Dale Smith Directors’ Award; ** Gold Tassel

BRODY GEHRKE- Merrill Wrestling Alumni Club Scholarship; ** Senior Athletic Award

ANDREOU GOETSCH- Al & Elayne Saeger Memorial Scholarship; David H. Eckerle Memorial Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

NATHANIAL GREFE- Matthew Zocher Memorial Scholarship; Robert & Jo Ann Opsahl Scholarship; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** Gold Tassel

MARIA GRUND- Ascension Good Samaritan Scholarship; Lincoln Co. Assoc. for Home & Community Education Scholarship; * Merrill Ice Reflections Figure Skating Club Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

ETHAN HALFMANN- ** Gold Tassel

ANDREI HEISINGER- ** Gold Tassel

MAKAYLA HELLER- Remembering Kyle Memorial Scholarship; Shirlaine Drew Memorial Scholarship; Steger Family Scholarship; Tyler Holbach Memorial Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

ISAIAH HEYEL- Alan C. Vecchio Memorial Scholarship; Merrill Lions Club Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

DESIRAE HOFF- ** Gold Tassel

SHANIA HORNISCHER- Social & Sick Benefit Society Scholarship

LOGAN HUMPHREY- Social & Sick Benefit Society Scholarship; * Mutual of Wausau Insurance Co. Scholarship; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

RILEY HUMPHREY- Leonard F. Schmitt Pre-Law UW-Madison Scholarship; * US Constitution Contest Scholarship (Wausau Elks Lodge #248); ** Gold Tassel

JACOB JOHNSON- UFCW #688 Scholarship; * G3 Industries, Inc. Scholarship (NTC); * Marathon Co. Central Labor Council Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

BRANDON KERCHEFSKI- ** Gold Tassel

ALEXIA KLEINSCHMIDT- Carl & Wella Orin Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

ALLISON KLOTH- Lincoln Co. Assoc. for Home & Community Education Scholarship; William Hinke & Jeanne Kroeplin Memorial Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

JARED KNIESS- ** Gold Tassel

MAKAYLA KOELSCH- ** Gold Tassel

TAYLOR KRUEGER- Martin & Marcella Lahni Scholarship; Rich & Jane Poirier Scholarship; * Berlin-Hamburg Lions Club Scholarship; * Crown Grant (Crown College); * JD Williams Scholarship (Crown College); * President’s Scholarship (Crown College); ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** President’s Education Award; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

KAITLYNN KRZANOWSKI- * Community Blood Center Gallon Grad Award

NEVADA LAABS- Lincoln Co. Tavern League Scholarship; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** Gold Tassel

ADAM LAEHN- Lincoln Co. Sports Club Scholarship; ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Gold Tassel

WILLIAM LEISCHER- ** MHS Outstanding Vocal Performance; ** Gold Tassel

JORDYN LONDERVILLE- Walter & Mabel Fromm Scholarship

BRIANNA MAAS- Genevieve Bowell Scholarship; * Merrill Ice Reflections Figure Skating Club Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

CASIE MCALLISTER- Eagles Aerie #584 Scholarship; Kate Goodrich Elementary School Scholarship; Optimist Club/Octagon Club Service Scholarship; Prairie River Middle School Student Council Scholarship; * Academic Achievement Scholarship (UW-River Falls); * Connexus Assoc. Scholarship; * Macdonald Foundation Work Ethic Scholarship; * Teacher Education Scholarship; (WI Rural Schools Alliance); ** Gold Tassel

ISAAC MEYER- Silver M Club Scholarship in Memory of LeRoy Dahm; Washington Elementary School Scholarship; * Rath Foundation Scholarship (UW-Stout); ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** President’s Education Award; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

EMERSON MILLIS- * US Constitution Contest Scholarship; ** MHS Outstanding Artist of the Year

RENEE MOONEN- Sherry Simon Success Education Scholarship; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** Gold Tassel

ZACHARY MOOTZ- Silver M Club Scholarship in Memory of Earl “Bud” Schuman; ** Klug Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** Gold Tassel

TROY MORGAN- ** Gold Tassel

CATHERINE MURRAY- Beta Sigma Phi Sorority Scholarship; Kate Goodrich Elementary School Scholarship; ** US Marine Corps John Philip Sousa Award for Musical Excellence; ** Gold Tassel

MATTHEW MYSZKA- * Merit Scholarship (Concordia University)

JOSIAH NOHR- Robert & Jo Ann Opsahl Scholarship; * Univ. of Northwestern Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

JACOB NOVITCH- Optimist Club Scholarship; Optimist Club/Octagon Club Service Scholarship; * Academic Excellence Scholarship (State of Wisconsin); * Hans Berg Scholarship (Wausau Nordic Ski Club); ** US Air Force Math & Science Award; ** US Marine Corps Scholastic Excellence Award; ** President’s Education Award; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

CALLI OBERG- Lincoln Co. Tavern League Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

BLAKE OESTREICH- ** Gold Tassel

JARED OLLHOFF- ** MHS Hall of Fame Inductee; ** Senior Athletic Award

JOSHUA PALAZZO- Agra Industries Engineering Scholarship; Haunted Sawmill Scholarship; * Academic Achievement Scholarship (UW-River Falls); ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

KATE PETERSON- ** MHS Outstanding Artist of the Year; ** MHS Hall of Fame Inductee; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** Gold Tassel

KONNOR PETERSON- Lucas Anderson Memorial Scholarship; * Jesse J. Fleischman Memorial Scholarship (NTC)

ALEXANDER PFINGSTEN- Agra Industries Welding Scholarship; Gleason Community Club Scholarship in Memory of Richard Bernsdorf; * Bierman Family Foundation Scholarship (NTC); * Technical Excellence Scholarship (State of Wisconsin); ** Gold Tassel

FREDRIC PIEPENBROK- * GI Bill (US Air Force); ** Senior Athletic Award

PATIENCE PYAN- Martin & Marcella Lahni Scholarship; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** Gold Tassel

CADE RAJEK- Gleason Lions Club Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

BRANT RALEIGH- Pine River Elementary School Scholarship; Rich & Jane Poirier Scholarship; * US Military Academy West Point Appointment; ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** President’s Education Award; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

LILY REIMANN- Lee J. & Lillian Leidiger O’Reilley UW-Madison Scholarship; * Culver’s Foundation Scholarship; ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** President’s Education Award; ** Gold Tassel

BENJAMIN REINDL- Beta Sigma Phi Sorority Scholarship; * Community Blood Center Gallon Grad Award; * Community Blood Center Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

RACHEL RELL- Leonard Niles Anson Memorial Univ. of Notre Dame Scholarship; * Academic Excellence Scholarship (State of Wisconsin); ** US Air Force Math & Science Award; ** US Marine Corps Scholastic Excellence Award; ** President’s Education Award; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

NICOLAS ROMAN- Merrill Golf Booster Club Scholarship; Rotary Club Technical College Scholarship in Memory of Roger Nelson; X to C Golf Scholarship

JACOB ROMANG- Kiwanis Club Scholarship; Martin & Marcella Lahni Scholarship; * Impact Scholarship (Michigan Technological Univ.); * National Prominence Scholarship (Michigan Technological Univ.); ** President’s Education Award; ** Gold Tassel

CRISTIANA RUELAS-WOOD- Merrill Firefighters Scholarship; * Community Blood Center Gallon Grad Award

JADEN RUSCH- Jessica & David Alft Memorial Scholarship; Neil Callahan Memorial Scholarship

AUTUMN SCHENZEL- Nicklaus Agriculture Scholarship; WA Marquardt Scholarship; * Community Blood Center Scholarship; * Merrill FFA Alumni Scholarship; * Outstanding Academic Achievement Scholarship (UW-River Falls); ** MHS Hall of Fame Inductee; ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** President’s Education Award; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

AARON SCHNABL- * WI Automotive & Truck Education Assoc. Scholarship; * Snap-On Industrial Tools Award

ANGELA SCHOONE- ** Gold Tassel

MELINDA SCHUBERT- Tim Volz “79” Memorial Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

HAILEY SCHULT- Carl & Wella Orin Scholarship; Martin & Marcella Lahni Scholarship; Washington Elementary School Scholarship ; * US Air Force Academy Appointment; ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** President’s Education Award; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

MADISON SCHULZ- WA Marquardt Scholarship

MAKAYLA SCHULZ- Shannon L. Hall Memorial Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

JORDAN SCHWARTZ- ** Gold Tassel

EMILY SCZYGELSKI- Robert & Jo Ann Opsahl Scholarship; Varsity Hockey Blueline Club & Merrill Youth Hockey Assoc. Scholarship ; WA Marquardt Scholarship; * Central WI Storm Booster Club Scholarship; * John F. Kennedy Scholarship (St. Norbert College); ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** Gold Tassel

JONATHAN SHUMAN- ** Gold Tassel

ZOE SLEWITZKE- Sherry Simon Success Scholarship; ** MHS Outstanding Artist of the Year; ** Gold Tassel

PAIGE SONDELSKI- Walter & Mabel Fromm Scholarship; * Berlin-Hamburg Lions Club Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

ALISSA SOSNOVSKE- Gleason Lions Club Scholarship; Lawrence & John Frederick Agriculture Scholarship; Lincoln Co. Beef Producers Scholarship; * Heartland Cooperative Services Scholarship; * Lincoln Co. Farm Bureau Scholarship; * Merrill FFA Alumni Scholarship

IAN SPRINGBORN- Gerald & Charmaine Whitburn Scholarship; * Chancellor’s Scholarship (UW-Stout); * Winds Paradox, Inc. Employee Scholarship; ** President’s Education Award; ** Gold Tassel

JENNISA STRAND- Ascension Good Samaritan Scholarship; Merrill Firefighters Scholarship; * Hamburg Fire & EMS Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

AIDAN TAUTGES- Herbert F. & Elizabeth S. Guenzl; UW-Madison Scholarship; ** President’s Education Award; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

MARK THOMPSON- * Trustee Scholarship (Carroll Univ.); ** Louis Armstrong Jazz Award; ** MHS Outstanding Vocal Performance; ** President’s Education Award; ** Gold Tassel

EMILY TOTH- Genevieve Bowell Scholarship; * Music Major Scholarship (UW-Marathon Co.); * Rib Mtn. Adventure Challenge Music Scholarship (UW-Marathon Co.); * River Valley Jazz Society Scholarship (UW-Marathon Co.); * Wausau Lyric Choir Scholarship; * What I’ll Bring Scholarship (UW-Marathon Co.); * Young Women in the Arts Scholarship (Wausau Pro Musica); ** Concert Choir Award; ** Gold Tassel

ELIZA TROJANOWSKI- Walter & Mabel Fromm Scholarship; ** MHS Outstanding Student Council Leader; ** President’s Education Award; ** Gold Tassel

ABIGAIL TVETEN- Paul Simon Memorial Business Scholarship; Sgt. Ryan Jopek Memorial Scholarship; * William K. Gottschalk Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

MORGAN WARDALL- Lee Wardall Memorial – Merrill Teachers Assoc. Scholarship; Rotary Club University Scholarship; Sally Pfund Memorial Scholarship; * Lincoln Co. 4-H Leaders Assoc. Scholarship; * Linda Osness Memorial Scholarship; ** Conference Scholar-Athlete Award; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** National Honor Society Cords; ** Gold Tassel

MARIYAH WEBER- Paul Simon Memorial Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

MADISEN WEIX- Leone Torzewski Memorial Scholarship; Merrill Administrators Assoc. Education Scholarship; ** MHS Hall of Fame Inductee; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** Gold Tassel

MOLLY WEIX- Ascension Good Samaritan Scholarship; Elsie H. Heckman Memorial Scholarship; Knights of Columbus Scholarship; ** MHS Hall of Fame Inductee; ** Senior Athletic Award; ** Gold Tassel

DEVON WINN- Walter & Mabel Fromm Scholarship

RILEY YOUNG- WA Marquardt Scholarship; ** Gold Tassel

Key:
Local Scholarship
* Outside Scholarship/Award
** High School Award/Recognition

The post Merrill High School Class of 2018 Scholarships & Awards appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

Collin Lueck
Editor

After more than 20 years of experience as a physical therapist assistant, Michelle Odegard decided to broaden her skillset and take on her own practice. She opened 7 Oaks Bodywork and Massage at 925 E. Main St. in Merrill at the beginning of March 2018.

Along with her licensure as a physical therapist assistant, Michelle is also a licensed massage therapist, certified cupping therapist, certified personal trainer and certified acupressure practitioner. All that together gives Michelle a deeper understanding of the human body and allows her to provide a wide range of treatments to benefit her patients.

Combining elements of Eastern and Western medicine, Michelle offers additional treatments including myofacial release, micro-current point stimulation, auricular therapies, and kinesio taping.

“The human body is intriguing to me,” Michelle said. “Finding ways to get it to work again is interesting.”

In just a short time, Michelle has found there is a demand for the services she offers. Some of her former physical therapy patients are now coming to 7 Oaks. Other practitioners are also referring patients who they feel will benefit from Michelle’s services.

“It spread by word of mouth,” Michelle said. “I can offer other options that people may have not heard about.”

Combining her physical therapy background with additional licenses and certifications has allowed Michelle to draw from a wide range of techniques to help free her patients from pain or dysfunction.

“My background didn’t necessarily open the door, but it allowed me to bring all my skills with me,” she said.

Having her own practice allows Michelle to make the decisions that will restore her patients to balance and good health.

“It gives me the choice to do everything I need to do,” she said.

Her cozy building on Main Street has been transformed from an office into a space of tranquility.

New patients are welcome to come in for a consultation without commitment.

7 Oaks Bodywork and Massage can be reached at 715-218-8400, or visit online at 7OaksBodyworkandMassage.com.

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The post Scattered showers and thunderstorms today appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

Wisconsin Heat Awareness Day is observed on June 6. While many people look forward to the warmer summer temperatures, it’s important to remember that hot conditions can turn dangerous quickly and pose a risk to health and safety.
According to the Department of Health Services, 39 people have died in Wisconsin over the last five years and thousands of residents have fallen ill or even been hospitalized due to heat-related conditions. Nationwide there are an average of 618 deaths in the U.S. each year caused by extreme heat, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
“Lincoln County has a higher rate of emergency room visits due to heat stress than Wisconsin as a whole,” states Kristin Bath, Public Health Educator for Lincoln County Health Department. “Lincoln County’s rate of emergency visits is 19.7 per 100,000, and Wisconsin’s rate is 16.5 per 100,000.”

Lincoln County is fortunate to have locally designated cooling centers in Merrill, Tomahawk and Gleason. A cooling center is an air-cooled facility where Lincoln County residents are invited to get relief from extreme heat. We would like to thank the following businesses and organizations that have agreed to participate as a cooling center this year. Cooling center signage will be displayed at each location.
•Les and Jim’s Lincoln Lanes
•Riverside Athletic Club
•Smith Multi-Purpose Center (MARC)
•T.B. Scott Library
•Merrill Enrichment Center
•Tomahawk City Hall
•Tomahawk Public Library
•Tomahawk Senior Center
•Strikers Tomahawk Bowl
•Gleason Bowling Alley

In addition to seeking relief from the heat at local cooling centers, individuals should take the following steps to be safe in the sun this summer.

•Drink lots of water.
•Avoid alcoholic beverages, coffee, tea and sodas.
•Limit outside activity to early morning or late evenings.
•Avoid going outside in extreme heat.
•If you don’t have air conditioning, keep shades drawn and blinds closed, but windows slightly open.
•Rotate ceiling fans counter clockwise.
•Keep electric lights off or turned down.
•Limit the use of the stove.
•Wear loose, light-colored clothing.
•Take cool baths and showers.
•Don’t leave anyone (including pets) in a parked car – even for a few minutes.
•Check up on family, friends, and neighbors during extreme heat. If you are unable to reach them, call 911 and request a well-being check.

For more information about extreme heat and local cooling centers, visit www.ReadyLincoln.org or contact Kristin Bath at 715-539-1373 or at kbath@co.lincoln.wi.us. For more information about Lincoln County Health Department’s programs and services, visit lincolncountyhealthdepartment.com or find us on Facebook. Lincoln County Health Department is always working for a safer and healthier Lincoln County.

The post Beat the heat this summer: 2018 Cooling Center listing appeared first on Merrill Foto News.

The month of June typically sees a spike in deer activity, and safety officials with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) are asking motorists – and especially motorcyclists – to be extra alert. Deer activity increases in June as females search for places to give birth and young deer separate from their mothers. While crashes between deer and motor vehicles tend to peak in the fall, June is typically when motorists are most likely to be injured in a deer/vehicle crash.

“It’s that time of year when we see an increase in traffic volumes, in vehicle speeds and deer activity,” said David Pabst, Director of WisDOT’s Bureau of Transportation Safety. “The best advice to prevent deer crashes and protect yourself is to be alert, slow down, buckle up – and if you’re motorcycling – always wear protective equipment.” Last year in Wisconsin, nine people were killed in deer-related crashes – six were motorcyclists.

Wisconsin law enforcement agencies reported 20,482 deer/motor vehicle crashes last year. Dane County had the most with 959, followed by Waukesha County with 869 and Manitowoc County with 788. In five counties, more than half of all crashes reported in 2017 involved deer: Green Lake, Kewaunee, Lafayette, Oconto and Shawano. A county-by-county breakdown of deer/vehicle crashes in Wisconsin last year is available on the WisDOT website.

WisDOT offers the following tips to avoid deer crashes and motorist injuries:

Deer can be spotted any time of day, but are most active in early morning and evening hours.

Slow down, eliminate distractions, and make sure all vehicle occupants are buckled up.

If you see a deer, slow down and blow your horn with one long blast to frighten it away.

If a collision with a deer is unavoidable:

Brake firmly. Stay in your lane.

Avoid sudden swerving which can cause you to lose control of your vehicle and result in a more serious crash.

The one exception is if you are operating a motorcycle, in which case you should slow down, brake firmly and swerve if necessary to avoid hitting the deer. Try to stay within your lane if possible to avoid hitting other objects.

If you do hit a deer:

Get your vehicle safely off the road if possible and call law enforcement. Be prepared to describe your specific location.

Generally, it’s safest to stay buckled-up inside your vehicle. Walking along a highway is always dangerous as you could be struck by another vehicle.

Don’t attempt to move an injured deer.

The increase in motor vehicle travel and deer activity this time of year also results in more car-killed-deer along Wisconsin roadways. WisDOT works with private vendors or counties to manage deer carcass removal. The agreements require vendors to dispose of deer carcasses along the State Highway System (all numbered highways) within two business days after receiving a report. Reporting car-killed-deer for disposal depends on the location of the deer carcass:

•Along Interstates, U.S. and state highways, contact the appropriate county sheriff’s department;

•Along county highways, contact the county highway department;

•Along town, village and city roads, contact the appropriate local municipality.

More information on this topic can be found on the WisDOT website.

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