Mrs. Joyce Walters, 85 died peacefully at Aspirus Wausau Hospital on Friday September 20, 2019. Joyce was born on July 22nd, 1934 to the late Frederick and Gladys (Schoessow) Kolbe in Wausau. She was best known as a loving mother and grandmother who enjoyed spending time with her children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren. She was a farmer and full-time mom. Her homemade bread, chili, potatoes and bologna, cabbage rolls, scalloped potatoes, peanut butter bars, pies and homemade custard ice-cream will be missed but never forgotten. She also loved listening to polkas, watching the Packers and playing with her many rescued pets. She was a member of WELCA and Home Makers for over 65 years. She was a member of Calvary Lutheran Church in the Town of Pine River. She will be missed by her children Debbie (Larry) Chashatt, Dawn (Denny) Reckner, Diane Walters, S. (Erica #2) Walters, Denise (Tim) Yarie, Dean (Paula) Walters, Doreen (Jimmy) Jasperson, Dana Ohde, her 16 grandchildren and 11 Great-grandchildren who she loved.

She is preceded in death by her parents and sister JoAnn Walters.

Funeral services will be 11 AM on Thursday, Sept 26, 2019 at Calvary Lutheran Church in the town of Pine River. Rev. Paul Heykes officiating. Visitation will be from 5-7 PM on Wednesday, September 25, 2019 at Waid Funeral Home and again on Thursday Sept 26, 2019 at Calvary Lutheran Church (N365 Cain Creek Rd., Merrill, WI 54452) in the Town of Pine River from 10 AM until the time of service. In lieu of flowers a memorial’s preferred to Calvary Lutheran Church W.E.L.C.A. (N365 Cain Creek Rd, Merrill, WI 54452).

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William H. ‘Bill’ Bauman, 65, of the Town of Pine River, Lincoln County, died Saturday, September 21, 2019 at U.W. Hospital, Madison.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 A.M. Friday, September 27, 2019 in the Holy Cross Chapel at Bell Tower Residence, Merrill. Father James Bartelme will preside. Burial will take place in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Cemetery, Merrill. A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2019 from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill.

Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

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A 17-year old Merrill man was arrested last Monday afternoon on a theft charge. A resident of the Town of Merrill reported a theft of money.

Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office K9 Deputy Nina.

A 35-year old Chippewa Falls man was arrested Wednesday evening on multiple charges following a traffic stop in the Town of Bradley. The K9 Nina alerted to the odor of illegal drugs in the vehicle. During a search, marijuana and methamphetamine were located. The driver also displayed signs of being under the influence an intoxicant. After field sobriety tests were performed, he was also charged with operating a motor vehicle while under the influence of a controlled substance third offense. The man was also charged with violating the terms of his parole.

A 23-year old Tomahawk woman was arrested Friday evening on charges of battery and bail jumping after deputies responded to a report of a disturbance in the Town of Wilson.

Nine people reported striking deer this past week. On Tuesday a motorist reported striking a turkey on US Hwy 51 at US Hwy 8 north of Tomahawk.

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William H. (Bill) Bauman, age 65 passed away on Saturday September 21, 2019 at UW Hospital in Madison, WI surrounded by his family after a brief illness.   Bill was born on September 30, 1953 in Merrill, Wisconsin, the son of the Lydia and the late Stanley Bauman.   He attended St Robert’s grade school and graduated from Merrill High School in 1971. As early as age 13, Bill helped out at Merrill Millwork, the patio door company founded by his dad.   He attended and graduated from the UW-Milwaukee in 1982 with a degree in Film and Art.   Bill was a very creative person and a talented artist.  This artistry transitioned to product design when he decided to step back into the family business.   At Merrill Millwork his innovations and patented part designs brought the company up to speed in a changing market. Bill was admired and loved by his business associates and employees.  According to his family Bill worked twice as hard to make things a lot or even a little easier for others, both at work and at home.  He was an all-around great guy. Bill was smart, quick witted with a wonderful quirky sense of humor, positive attitude and ever present smile.  This was true even in the face of the many challenges in his life.  He was an eternal optimist. Bill enjoyed golfing, fishing, classic movies, trips out west too and loved the ocean in Florida.   He designed and built, with the help of friends, a log cabin on the Haymeadow Creek.  It was one of his favorite places where he enjoyed trout fishing and deer hunting with family and friends. Bill was very close to his family and will be remembered as a wonderful dad and grandpa.  He was always there for his children, family and friends unconditionally.

He will be sadly missed by his mother, Lydia Bauman of Merrill; fiancé, Judy McFarland of Manitowish Waters; daughter, Tori Bauman (Ben Asmundsen) of Merrill; sons, Nick Bauman of Merrill, Alex (Bobbie) Carlson of Merrill and Lee (Liza) Carlson of Wausau; Judy’s daughter, Olivia McFarland of Manitowish Waters; four grandchildren, Remy Bauman, and Stanley, Lola and Aubrey Carlson; and sisters, Ann (Stephan) Bauman-Kunz of Minocqua and Mary Bauman (Dan Jackson) of Gleason. Bill was preceded in death by his father, Stanley ‘Pee-Wee’ Bauman.

The Mass of Christian Burial will be celebrated at 11:00 A.M. Friday, September 27, 2019 in the Holy Cross Chapel at Bell Tower Residence, Merrill.  Father James Bartelme will preside.  Burial will take place in St. Francis Xavier Catholic Cemetery, Merrill.  A visitation will be held on Thursday, September 26, 2019 from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com

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Milno K. Kufahl, 83, of Merrill, passed away Sunday, September 22, 2019 at Pine Crest Nursing Home, Merrill, under the care of hospice and the staff at Pine Crest. Milno was born on May 13, 1936 to Paul and Elsie (Jaeger) Kufahl.  He was raised on the family farm in the Town of Pine River, Lincoln County.  Milno worked for Weinbrenner Shoe Company until his retirement in 2000.  Milno loved baseball.  He played for Henrich’s Club fast pitch league for many years.  In his later years, he enjoyed dining out with friends and family and watching the Brewers.  He also liked playing Sheepshead with family.

Survivors include a sister, Elvera Detert; a sister-in-law, Marilyn Kufahl; and many nieces and nephews.  Milno was preceded in death by his parents, Paul and Elsie Kufahl; brothers, Vernon Kufahl, Melvin Kufahl and Kenneth Kufahl; sister, Lorraine Kraft; brothers-in-law, Robert Kraft and Bernhard ‘Ben’ Detert; and sister-in-law, Fern Kufahl.

The funeral service for Milno will begin at 11:00 A.M. Monday, September 30, 2019 at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill.  The Rev. Greg Laska will officiate.  Burial will take place at Calvary Cemetery, Town of Pine River.  Visitation will begin at 10:00 A.M. Monday at the funeral home. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

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The public is invited to join Christ United Methodist Church, 300 N. Mill Street, for a work day making ‘Little Dresses for Africa’. The work day will take place on Saturday, October 5, from 9 a.m. -to 1 p.m. in the church Gathering Room. For those not familiar with the program, little dresses are made simply by reconstructing pillowcases and adding embellishments. Once completed, the dresses are sent to orphanages, churches and schools in Africa to be distributed to young girls. The intent of the mission project is not only to supply these girls with articles of clothing, but also to plant the message in the hearts of these young girls that they are worthy!
Bring your own sewing machine or come help with cutting, pinning, ironing or hand- stitching. All skill levels are needed and welcome! The dresses are simple, yet time consuming to put together. For more information, feel free to call the church office at 715-536-4676. Join us as we do mission work through fellowship with laughter and love. ‘We’re not only sending dresses… we’re sending hope.

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Jeremy Ratliff
Editor

The Bluejay varsity football team has certainly squared off with its share of talented, high octane offenses this season. But none compared to the offense they faced Friday night, in their homefield duel with the La Crosse-Central Red Raiders.
The Raiders not only brought a spread-style offense orchestrated via a variety of sets not exactly common in local high school football, but that offense was under the command of one of western Wisconsin’s top field generals, in senior quarterback Johnny Davis.
Prior to Friday’s contest, Davis had already crossed the 1,000 yard barrier in total offense, and then some. In just four games this season, he not only aired out 765 yards and delivered nine scoring strikes but rolled up another 523 yards and 10 scores on the ground.
Despite the intimidating numbers, the Jays’ stood tall.
Although their first win of the season eluded them yet again-falling short 14-28- they certainly didn’t let it go without a fight.

Junior running back Nik Zastrow turns the corner behind offensive guard Dawson Dengel Friday night. Zastrow proved to be a major contributor to the Bluejay offense, grounding out 74 yards on just 10 carries.

Central would get the early jump late in the first when Davis picked his way through Jay Stadium defenders and broke loose 28 yards for the score. Things started to look a bit bleak for Merrill in the second, when Davis snapped off a 29-yard scoring scamper at the 7:53 mark and another 69-yard one-way trip to the end zone, with 1:30 left in the half.
The Jays may have been down, but were far from out and they wasted no time in showing it.
Following a huge Merrill defensive stand early in the third quarter, which left the once high-powered Red Raider scoring machine seemingly stalled and sputtering, it was the Jays’ turn to cash in on a trip to the end zone. With just three seconds left in the third, Quarterback Caleb Dejong capped off a steady, ground pounding offensive drive with a 1-yard scoring run. Dual sport kicker Caleb Novitch’s extra point narrowed the Raider lead 21-7. Davis and the Raiders responded with a 46 yard aerial strike early in the fourth, but the Jays countered just over 5 minutes later, when Dejong found the Bluejays-zone once again, this time on a 38-yard bolt down the west sideline.
“We may not have gotten the win, but I was very proud of how we responded tonight,” said head coach Rob Klug.
“We need to play every game, the we played in the second half tonight. We were down, but we came back out and made some good defensive stops, took control of the ball, moved the ball downfield and finished some drives.”
Despite the loss, the Bluejay offense enjoyed their most productive output of the season with 306 total yards. Fullback Eddie Collinsworth led the ground attack, while pounding the middle of the field for 97 hard-earned yards on 19 carries. Junior running back Nik Zastrow stretched the boundaries for the Bluejay offense, with a 75 yard performance on just 10 carries, in addition to Dejong’s 16 carries for 50 yards and two scores. Dejong rounded out his game resume with another 66 yards through the air and 4 completions.
Collinsworth enjoyed a big night on the defensive side of the ball as well (4 solo tackles, 2 assists) along with Ethyn Nowack (4 solo, TFL).

Bluejay defensive end Zachary Iribarren (#49) zeros in on Red Raider quarterback Johnny Davis Friday night. Iribarren would prove to be a key factor in the Merrill defense, tallying 3 solo tackles and 2 assists.

Friday night the guys will resume GNC action as they embark on their bi-annual trip north to Ashland for a showdown with the Oredockers.
“I think we will match up with them pretty evenly,” Klug said. “They’ve had some down games this year and are still in the hunt, same as we are. But they’re a solid team so we will need a good week of practice this week to get ready for them.”
As Klug alluded to, Ashland remains in the hunt for their first win of the season after falling 27-6 to Mosinee last week. Game time set for 7 p.m. at Ashland High School Friday night.

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September 13
At 1:31 p.m., an officer placed a female under arrest for a probation violation.

September 14
At 12:00 p.m., an officer was dispatched to a hit and run. An investigation is ongoing.

September 15
At approximately 9:57 p.m., officers were dispatched to a residence for a report of a physical altercation that had occurred between two males. The suspect in the matter had left prior to officers arriving, but was located as he was driving away from the residence. The suspect admitted to officers that he had gone to the residence to confront the other male. When he was not able to get into the residence due to the doors being locked, the suspect pushed out an air conditioner in a window and entered the residence. Once inside, he proceeded to punch the other male subject in the face prior to leaving. The suspect was arrested for criminal trespass, battery and disorderly conduct.

September 16
At 4:29 p.m., officers responded to a 911 hang up and yelling and screaming could be heard on the line. Contact was made at the residence with a mother and son who were having a verbal argument. The juvenile ran from officers but later returned to the residence where he physically resisted officers. The juvenile is being referred to Social Services for disorderly conduct and resisting.

At 8:05 p.m., dispatch received an anonymous call that a female party with an active warrant for her arrest was currently at a local business. Contact was made with the female who did have a warrant. She was arrested and was transported to the jail.

September 17
At 8:03 p.m., officers responded to a domestic incident. A female party had been cursed at and was called names by her boyfriend. During the incident she was also shoved into a door frame. The male party fled from the scene but was located and was arrested for domestic disorderly conduct.

At 9:25 p.m., officers responded to a domestic incident. A female party had been strangled by her husband and was shoved to the ground. He had also punched her in the hand. The male was arrested for domestic disorderly conduct and strangulation.

September 18
At 6:38 p.m., an officer responded to a report of an ATV driving recklessly through a neighborhood. The ATV was located abandoned near a baseball diamond and the operator description was obtained. Follow-up contacts will be made with the driver and enforcement will be taken.

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Jeremy Ratliff
Editor

Of all activities most 16-year olds may have engaged in this past summer, touring the area and rendering live music performances most likely wasn’t at the top of the list.
But that is precisely how Bryce Thomaschefsky spent his summer; son of Brian and Desirae Thomaschefsky of Pine River.
“We never saw this coming!” Desirae adds with a laugh, of her son’s recent catapult into the local music scene.
“He’s always loved to sing, basically since he was old enough to talk. I still remember the first time I heard him sing along with a song. He was four and in the backseat of the car when the song “Pour Me” came on the radio. Next thing I know he’s back there in his car seat just singing along. Then about a year later he wrote his first song called “read my lamp.”
Bryce’s passion for music would only grow from there.
At the age of 10 he started taking guitar lessons.
“At first we just thought his interest in playing guitar was  just a phase,” Desirae adds. “But he stuck with it. He started taking lessons once a week for three-years and then intermittently for a year and a half. It was something he really enjoyed and we were happy for him. It was great to see him find something he loved to do.”
After four years of lessons-experimenting with bass, six-string electric and acoustic guitar- Bryce settled on the acoustic guitar as his instrument of choice.
Bryce echoes his mother’s sentiments.
“I’ve always loved music for as long as I can remember. I’ve always been one of those kids that could name most any song off the top of my head. I never really planned on getting into guitar, I guess it just seemed like a cool idea one day and I gave it a try. The more I learned, the more I enjoyed it.”
At the age of 14, just about the same time he mastered the six-string, Thomaschefsky developed an ear for bluegrass music. His attention then shifted to learning the mandolin, a key instrument in the decades-old Bluegrass genre.
Rather than take lessons, Bryce was determined to learn the instrument on his own.
His efforts paid off this past June, when his passion for Bluegrass led him to take the leap from playing for friends and family, to the live stage.
That stage happened to be at the 5th Annual Jessi’s Wish Fundraiser in June, at The Rock bar.
With his mandolin in-hand, Bryce performed the Bluegrass version of “Gin and Juice” originally covered by The Gourds, an Austin, Texas-based Alternative Country band. Unbeknownst to Bryce beforehand, his performance was slotted between two big hitters in the Central Wisconsin music scene; Joseph Huber and Phyl Wickham.
“Oh man I was nervous!,” Bryce adds of his first-ever live performance. “Going up on stage to play after Joe Huber was pretty nerve wracking. It was the first time I had ever played for anyone but my family.

Bryce Thomaschefsky picks a tune for his grandmother Terri Thomaschefsky, on her birthday.

“I had always thought about playing live someday, but I never imagined I would have the opportunity so soon, much less playing with guys like Joe and Phyl. The audience seemed like they enjoyed me getting up there to play, so that was a big confidence boost for me.”
The fundraiser performance would prove to be the just the beginning for Bryce, of an entire summer of live performances around the area. From open-mic nights at Sawmill Brewing Company to performing at the annual Jack Pine Jamboree in Birnamwood, over Labor Day weekend. Joining him at Jackpine- one of the premier summer music festivals in central Wisconsin – were an array of local household names of the Bluegrass genre, including Horseshoes & Hand Grenades, Huber, Dig Deep and Tuck Pence.
Just as his passion for music led him to the live stage, Bryce’s newfound confidence and enjoyment of performing live, has led him to take yet another step up in his music career; founding Thomaschefky Entertainment LLC.
“I know the name is pretty original,” he jokes with a grin.
“I just never imagined I would enjoy playing music for people as much as I do. The more I play, the more comfortable I get and the more I enjoy it.”
While Bryce admits Bluegrass and Folk music are his favorite genres to play, the guitar remains his instrument of choice. But that’s not to say his efforts to broaden his musical horizons have ceased.
Recently, Bryce decided to take up learning the banjo.
“It’s something different. I like the sound of it so we’ll see how it goes,” he adds with a laugh.
“We are just so proud of him, I don’t know how to explain it,” Desirae adds.
“This is such a great opportunity for him and he did it all on his own. We never saw this coming…we never imagined when he started singing so many years ago and taking guitar lessons…it would lead to this. But as long as he’s having fun that’s all that matters. We are his biggest fans!”
As for the future, Bryce has no expectations or concrete plans.
“I haven’t really thought about it. Right now I’m having fun singing and playing for people. I’ll ride it out and see where it takes me. I’m just very grateful for everyone who has been there to support me, especially Jonille Alft for inviting me to perform at Jessi’s Wish and the folks at the Sawmill Brewing Company for their support during open-mic nights.”
Bryce’s next live performance is set for Saturday, Oct. 12 at Fisher’s Bar in Parrish. Additional performance dates are still in the works.
For more information on Bryce’s future performances, he can be reached at (715) 212-3810 or visit Thomaschefsky Entertainment on Facebook.

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Martha Ruth Mackin, 96, of Madison, WI, died September 17th, 2019.  She was born August 30th, 1923, to William and Bess (Turner) Howard, in Houston, Texas.  Marty received a B.A. from Pittsburg State University in 1944 and an M.S. in Chemistry from Iowa State University in 1945.   In 1947, she married John Howard Mackin. They lived in Chicago, IL, then Evanston, IL. He preceded her in death in 1996.  From 1947-1953, Marty was a chemistry instructor for returning servicemen, on the G.I. Bill, at the University of Illinois Chicago campus at Navy Pier. She went on to teach chemistry at Truman College, from 1960 through 1993. At age 65, Marty received the 1988-89 Distinguished Professor Award from the Chicago City Colleges.  A voracious learner, she enjoyed visiting museums, attending plays, volunteer ushering, and reading. She traveled to every continent except Antarctica.  Marty always fought for and supported social justice and environmental causes. During her time at the city colleges, she took on the roll of strike captain while on strike for better teaching conditions.

Marty is survived by four children: Joanna Mackin (Duane Wenzel), of Honolulu, HI; Lynne Wolforth, of Hilo, HI; Ross (Shirley) Mackin, of Thailand; and Scott (Becca) Mackin, of Merrill, WI; three grandchildren; and countless friends.

Funeral on Saturday, September 28, 2019 at 3:00 at Midvale Community Lutheran Church, 4329 Tokay Blvd., Madison, WI. Visitation at 2:00 at the church.  In lieu of flowers, the family requests donations to Union of Concerned Scientists or Doctors Without Borders.

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Ruth J. Schneider, 94, of Merrill, passed away on Wednesday, September 25, 2019 at Bell Tower Residence, under the care of her loving family, the staff at Bell Tower, and hospice services.

Ruth was born June 3, 1925 in the Town of Texas, Marathon County, daughter of the late John and Hattie (Hartwig) Cannon. She married George Schneider, Jr. on September 25, 1948 and he preceded her in death on February 28, 2001. Ruth had been employed at Weinbrenner Shoe Company, Merrill. She was also proud to be a ‘farm wife’. Ruth enjoyed gardening, hunting, fishing, and camping. Ruth was an active member of St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill, the Ladies Aid of the church, the Lutheran Women’s Missionary League, and the Christian Women’s Club. She was also a former member of the ‘Neighborhood Sewing Club’.

Ruth is survived by her daughter, Diane (David) Marnholtz, Merrill; three grandchildren, Becky (Burl) Byer, Merrill, Craig (Terri) Marnholtz, Merrill, and Brenda (Chris) Brisinte, Green Bay; and three great grandchildren, Seth and Sawyer Marnholtz, and Bianca Brisinte. Besides her husband and parents, Ruth is preceded in death by four siblings, Dorothy Krueger, and Ken, Bud, and Duane Cannon.

The funeral service is 11:00 AM Monday, September 30, 2019, at St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. David Szeto and Lay Minister Robert Schneider, Ruth’s brother in law, will co-officiate. Burial will follow in Merrill Memorial Park. Visitation will begin at 9:00 AM Monday at the church. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home & Cremation Services, Merrill is assisting the family. Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com. The family has requested that memorials be directed to St. John Lutheran Church, Merrill.

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Jared Schmeltzer
Reporter

In the Bluejays opening meet of their Wisconsin Valley Conference dual meet season, the Jays would dominate the Warriors of Wausau West taking first place in each of the 11 events and winning the meet by a score of 106-58. Wausau West nearly outnumbers Merrill’s swim team two to one, however the Jays were able to lean on four swimmers to combine for eight first place finishes to take home the win.
Trinity Kanitz got Merrill going in the right direction, taking first place in the 200-yard freestyle with a swim of 2:06.82. Trinity later took first place in the 100-yard freestyle, swimming a time of 58.59. Evelyn Blennert would continue to assert herself as one of the best swimmers on the team, taking first place in the 200-yard IM with a time of 2:17.95, topping the second place finisher by over 20 seconds. Blennert then placed first in the 100-yard butterfly swimming a time of 1:03.63. Amber Winter took first place in the Amber Winter 50-yard freestyle and the 100-yard breaststroke swimming times of 26.45 (50-yard free) and 1:13.99 (100-yard breast). Erin Kanitz rounded out solo winners, taking first place in the 100-yard backstroke with a swim of 1:09.46, as well as taking gold in the 500-yard freestyle, with a time of 5:46.28.
Merrill’s 200-yard medley relay team consisting of Winter, Blennert, Erin Kanitz and Laney Zuelsdorff took first place with a combined time of 2:03.48. In the 400-yard freestyle relay-also swam by both Kanitz girls- Blennert and Aliyah Pillai destroyed the competition, swimming a time of 4:05.65, for a 23 second
victory. Winter and Trinity Kanitz then teamed up with Emma Pajtash and Alissa Kracht to take first place in the 200-yard freestyle relay with a time of 1:54.47.
“We are crossing into the mid section of our season now,” said Merrill head coach Kristie Winter. “The meets get tougher and the girls will have to dig deep to race their best. The team has been working hard for 6 weeks already, they are tired and the meet schedule does not allow for rest any time soon. The next few weeks will really challenge their stamina.”
Next up for the Jays will be a trip to Wisconsin Rapids on Thursday, Sept. 26 at 5:30 p.m. According to coach Winter, Rapids has an even larger team than Wausau, however that may not be such a bad thing.
“Rapids boasts over 45 swimmers. That’s three times as many as we have this season, which will test our small team. On a bright note there should be more time between events and give our girls a little more recovery time then they are used in to the fast meets like tonight that only took 58 minutes. Four races in a hour definitely challenges some of the newer team members they are just not used to that quick of a turn around between events and with only 14 swimmers they are often challenged to swim back to back events.”

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Jeremy Ratliff
Editor
The repaving project from Memorial Drive to Pine Ridge Avenue is nearly a month past due of it’s projected completion date (Aug. 26) and apparently mother nature is the culprit. According to Public Works Director Rod Akey, recent wet weather has been an issue for not only local projects but for construction projects around the area.
“All projects have been delayed due to weather and the volume of construction work that is taking place this year in central Wisconsin.” he said.
The good news is, the Memorial Drive-Pine Ridge project is expected to wrap up this week and the East Main Street paving project downtown is expected to be completed the week of Sept. 30.

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On Wednesday, Sept. 18, The Black Squirrel Scurry triathlon donated $1600 to VFW Post 1638 towards the “Raise the Flag” campaign. $100 checks were also donated to the VFW Post 1638 Auxiliary and the Scout Troop 503 for their volunteering efforts to help make the triathlon a success. The Black Squirrel Scurry was hosted by City of Merrill Parks and Recreation July 25.

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Jeremy Ratliff
Editor

The SPASH Panthers proved to be a formidable opponent for the varsity Bluejay tennis squad last Tuesday, Sept. 17; blanking the Jays 7-0 at MHS.
Merrill’s Kamille Ament fell short in a tight first-set duel with Stevens Point’s Abby Erwin In #3 Singles (5-7) only to have Erwin capitalize in the second set with a 6-1 victory.
“Alex Johnson moved up in the lineup today (#1 Singles) but ran into some stiff competition,” said assistant coach Brad Barton.
“Stevens Point is always one of the best teams in our conference. Kamille Ament gave it her all again but came up a little short.”
Varsity Tennis Results-SPASH. Tues. Sept. 17
Singles
No. 1 – Jessica Kleman,SPASH def. Alexandra Johnson, MHS, (6-0, 6-0); No. 2 – Estella Roerig, SPASH def. Amelia Skoviera, MHS, (6-1, 6-0,); No. 3 – Abby Erwin, SPASH def. Kamille Ament, MHS, (7-5, 6-1); No. 4 – Tatum Thielman, SPASH, def. Ashlynn Semling, MHS (6-0, 6-0)
Doubles
No. 1 – Meghan Debot – Anna Hlavac, SPASH def. Erin Murray – Anna Rydeski, MHS, (6-1, 6-0); No. 2 – Leah Olsen – Allison Rust, SPASH, def. Audrey Ladewig – Autumn Reissmann, MHS, (6-0, 6-0); No. 3 – Caroline Blakeman – Sabrina O’keefe, SPASH, def. Katelyn Hahn – Angela Hinner, MHS, (6-3, 6-0,)

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Renewal
“Go to the poor: you will find God.”-St. Vincent de Paul
The Society of St. Vincent de Paul imposes term limits for those serving in elected offices. So, after twelve years as the St. Francis Conference president, I am required to step down. It is now time for change and for new leadership to take over.
I have been blessed to participate as a servant leader in our Society for all these years. To serve our friends in need and my fellow Vincentians gives me a joy that I can not adequately put into words.
I know that our newly elected president, Dick Duginski, will continue serving the Conference and the poor in our community, following in the footsteps of our founder, Blessed Frederic Ozanam.
“The poor are messengers from God sent to test our justice and our charity and to save us by our works”.-Frederic Ozanam.
The changes in leadership will not alter our mission but rather give it renewal and strength. The reality that when we help our brothers and sisters in need, we are helping Christ Himself will remain constant.
“Whatever you did for the least of my brothers and sisters, you did it for Me”-Matthew 25, 34-46

As Vincentians we will always remain true to our God and our mission of service to those most in need. May God bestow His blessing upon you in abundance.

Denis N. McCarthy, SVDP President

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Researched by Michael J. Caylor Jr
10-3-79
An early morning smoldering fire destroyed a large amount of stock at the Lincoln Wood warehouse early Saturday morning. A call to the Merrill Police Department from a concerned neighbor who smelled smoke led to the discovery of the fire. Fire Chief Ray Priebe feels the fire likely started near a fork lift and spread to nearby storage racks filled with cut stock. A call for all off duty fireman was placed once the alarm was turned in at 4:48 AM; even retired firefighter and neighbor of the plant Marvin Neuman was placed into service as he ferried additional equipment to the scene. It is believed that Lincoln Wood is the only major woodworking plant in the city without a night watchman.
In news briefs: Holy Cross Hospital has increased their daily rates, a private room at the hospital will now be $97. Hospital Controller Dan Deemy blamed inflation for the raise. Congressman Dave Obey walked through the Ward Paper Company this past week and is pictured with plant manager Bruce Skofronick. Obey is touring paper mills throughout his district to learn about issues those factories have been having. Police are still clearing their complaint blotter after homecoming festivities led to multiple reports of property damage and toilet papering of houses and trees. Nearly two dozen MHS students spent the Saturday after the big game cleaning lawns. On a positive note from the event, Patty Lindquist was selected Homecoming Queen; she is pictured with her escort John Drengler. Tragedy struck a local family as 12 year old Troy Duginski drowned while trying to save a friend while they were swimming in Hockessin, Delaware. Duginski was brought back to Merrill and was buried at Bloomville, his local grandparents are Mr. and Mrs. Edward Duginski. SSG Roger Peck of Merrill has been awarded the special skill qualification label of Master Gunner. Peck is the first Wisconsin Army National Guard member to receive this distinction. SSG Peck is the only remaining active member of Company A, Merrill, who served at Fort Lewis, WA during the Berlin Crisis.
There was no come from behind victory this week as the Merrill Blue Jay football team took on the Wisconsin Rapids Red Raiders in front of 3400 fans at Jay Stadium. The Jays started the season 4-0, but each victory was punctuated by the phrase “heart attack alley” as they came from behind in the final quarters to pull out wins. This past week however the boys jumped out to a lead of 28-0 before settling on a 35-20 victory for a 5-0 perfect record. The Jays will next take on the Newman Cardinals this Saturday at home.
10-4-89
Two weekends have been set aside for the official open house and grand opening of the Merrill Historical Museum. The museum is the fruit of ten years of hard work on behalf of the association to preserve the history of Merrill. The museum is known as the first home of T. B. Scott, lumber baron and the city’s first mayor. Mr. Scott died in that house in 1886. It was later a funeral home before being purchased by Christ United Methodist Church. They are now leasing the building for $1 to the Historical Society. Another tour this weekend for you to take in is at the new corporate headquarters of Hurd Millwork on South Prospect St. The new 31,000 square foot building is a showcase to Hurd’s commitment to the community.
Martin Dietrich has passed away. The 85 year old native of Nebraska formerly owned the Merrill Box Company. He was a member of Trinity Lutheran Church in Merrill and wintered in Lake Wales, Florida. The legacy he leaves upon Merrill will likely be here for at least a century as he was the founder of the Merrill Golf Club. Coach Greg Schofield is calling this past Friday one long night, as his Blue Jays were defeated at D.C. Everest by a score of 45-3. Quarterback Jeff Bonnell along with Todd Zulliger, Chad Meyer and Jason Bootz were all standouts in the lopsided loss. The team hopes to regroup against the Wausau West Warriors this Friday night at Jay Stadium.
10-6-99
Homecoming is this weekend and a large class is slated to enter the Silver M Club. New members include: Randy English, Joel Juhlke, Dave Saal, Dave Borchardt, Doug Grisa, Tom Lutzke, Steve Rajek, Steve Strom, Don Wendorf, Pat Nelson, Steve Ferries, Mike Norris, Mike Saal, Al Detert, Robin Kudick, Jon Malm, Bob Semling, Russ Yanda, John Zuelsdorff, Bob Henson, Kelly O’Day, Mark Schultz, Doug Freeman, Steve Lutterbach, Rick Plautz, Dan Stiver, Tim Wanless, Dennis Yorde and Bill Folta. Reaching Gold M status: Ronald Coty, Donald Edmund, Rodney Gustin, David Knospe, Phil Kamke, Steve Kluetz, William Kluetz, Jack Langlois, Jerry Muderloh and John Slewitzke. Reaching the exclusive Diamond M status is Ewald Schulz.

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The Wisconsin Job Center is now offering employment assistance at T.B Scott Library every Thursday from 9:30 a.m.-Noon and 12:45 p,m.-4 p.m.Services offered include assistance with searching for jobs, registering on the job center website, creating and revising resumes, filing for unemployment benefits and weekly claims.
Hours are subject to change,
For more information, contact Audrey at (715) 261-8747 or email audrey.kostroskigut@dwd.wisconsin.gov.

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The Lincoln County Humane Society would like to thank the following donors for their support in August! Your support resulted in more than $4,000 for the animals calling the shelter their temporary home!
Kyle Tierney, Merrill Foto News, Nadine Appel, Cecil Ballou, Hilda Bukovic, Carol Peterson & Alice Andraski, Kathryn Brewington, Jean Orcutt-Schulz, Terri Kufahl, Diana Berenz, Cindy Steen, Shirley Mae Engel, Lakeland Dog Training Center, Monica Fenhaus, Chalk It Up, James & Judy Locke, Pamela Welch, Janet Selnes, Dan Lara, Shyanne Kuntz, Andrea Bennett, Ken & Judy Kuntz, Tasha Wassink, Larry Peck, WCAR, Skutak Dental, S.C., Kathleen Monnot, Network for Good, Rita Yaeger, Amy Hameister, Diane & Brian Brunelle, Irene Melonas, Jamie Diestelhorst, Jacqueline Johnson, The Benevity Community Impact Fund, Lange Auction, Darin Gille and the Dugout – Volleyball Tournament – 1st & 2nd Place Team.

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On Thursday September 26 from 6:00-7:00 p.m. is the scheduled meet and greet with Stephanie Kohli, the artist of The Great Mural Project at Kate Goodrich Elementary School located at 505 W. 10th Street.
Stephanie, having grown up in Merrill, Wisconsin and graduated from Merrill High School in 2003, has had the pleasure of learning art through some very dedicated and inspirational teachers. She was encouraged to paint large murals and to share her art and ideas with the community. After getting a degree in graphic design, and later creating her own art business in Wausau, Stephanie Kohli Art LLC, she began painting large scale murals throughout Wausau and surrounding communities. Her most recent mural on the 400 Block in Wausau earned Best of Show recognition.

Pictured is Stephanie Kohli.

Stephanie had the idea to bring people together through art to teach the healing benefits of painting and group art projects for all ages. This passion helped pave the way for starting a non-profit business in Wausau called Rise Up Central Wisconsin. She is also a board member and volunteer artist for the Wausau Children’s Museum.
“It is a beautiful thing to see a child’s joy from what they’ve created from being immersed in a mural of colors and characters they’ve seen in storybooks,” exclaims Stephanie. “To a child, this is like magic and will be a positive experience they carry with them throughout their life. I am overjoyed to have the opportunity to create a mural for Kate Goodrich and give the children something they can remember and treasure their early school years.”
More murals can be found throughout the community at places such as; Daly’s Restaurant, Patron Restaurant, Wausau Children’s Museum, North Central Health Care, 3rd Street in Wausau, and Aspirus Hospital.

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