Tuesday afternoon, Merrill Police Department officers teamed up with 31 area youngsters and staff with the Merrill Parks and Recreation Summer Program, for the second annual ‘Gutter Busters’ event at Les & Jim’s Lincoln Lanes.
“We had another great turn out and a lot of fun!” said police chief Ken Neff.
“We try and do similar events such as ‘Cops and Bobbers’ and ‘Badges and Bullseyes’ twice ever summer since acquiring the ‘Cops and Kids’ grant.”
As part of the two-hour event Tuesday, Neff was accompanied by School Resource Officer Mark Heckendorf, Officer Dane Mathwich and Captain Corey Bennett in enjoying soft drinks, popcorn and conversation with program participants.
As Neff alluded to, funding for the events are provided via grant from Sussex, WI based “Cops and Kids” Foundation.
According to the foundation: “The programs are designed to encourage positive interactions between law enforcement and the community, specifically children. These programs allow cops and kids to have fun together while teaching them positive alternatives to committing crimes.”
As Neff adds, the funding expires next year but the department has full intention to continue participating in Cops and Kids activities well into the future.
“We have had great participation and response from the community in terms of donations which is great. The founder of the ‘Cops and Kids’ visited us last summer and was very pleased with what he saw and the level of participation we had. We fully intend to re-apply for the grant from the foundation next year and hope to keep participating in events like this for many years to come.”
Merrill varsity tennis walked away victorious from a quad this past Tuesday, winning nine matches total – six in singles and three in doubles. Chippewa Falls won four of the matches – two in singles and two in doubles and Holmen won one match in doubles.
Sarah Altmann of Chippewa Falls High School started off the singles, defeating Katie Nelson of Merrill, 3-6, 1-6. Katie then defeated Lindsey Lichucki, 6-2, 6-2. Abbie Reed of Chippewa Falls defeated Lea Beckman of Merrill, 4-6, 1-6. Lea then defeated Lauren Grade, 7-5, 7-5. Seirra Severt of Merrill defeated Chloe Exner, 6-2, 7-5 and then defeated Cameron Larson, 5-7, 6-1, 10-8. Rachel Rell of Merrill defeated Maddie Clark, 6-2, 6-1 and then defeated Shelby Hornberg, 4-6, 6-0, 10-7.
For the doubles, Cate Murray and Allison Winter-Reed of Merrill defeated Kami Kuester and Breanna Zeinert, 6-4, 6-6, 7-5. Then, Ya Thao-Matti Vogel of Holmen defeated Cate-Allison, 6-1, 6-1. Maggie Burgess and Mikayla Runge of Chippewa Falls defeated Elizabeth Wagner and Anna Slovekia of Merrill, 0-6, 1-6. Elizabeth-Anna then defeated Lynzi Stauder and Ericka Schmelzer, 6-2, 6-6, 8-6. Kate Zielinski and Carley Meinen of Chippewa Falls defeated Olivia Wheat and Sierra Humphrey of Merrill, 3-6, 5-7. Olivia-Sierra then defeated Ericka Schmelzer-Ting-Jing Chen, 6-3, 6-0.
More quads are in store for varsity tennis. On Friday the Bluejay netters will face off against Rhinelander, Ashland and Ironwood at Rhinelander at 9 a.m. On Monday they will then face off against WI Rapids-Lincoln, Assumption and Green Bay East at Lincoln at 9 a.m.
A marker in honor of the late Merrill Police Captain Elmer Krueger, who lost his life in the line of duty on the evening of July 12, 1952. The marker stands near the original city jail and now Lincoln County Jail on E. 1st Street.
Jeremy Ratliff
Reporter
Park Place resident Lenore (Krueger) Elhert received a rather peculiar phone call from facility staff on Tuesday afternoon, advising her of a package awaiting her in the first floor commons area of the facility.
“I figured it was a birthday package,” she said with a chuckle.
Such an assumption was fair enough, considering Tuesday marked Lenore’s 99th birthday.
She soon made her way down to the commons area and quickly realized the “package” awaiting her was well beyond anything she could have imagined.
“It was a package alright, I was flabbergasted! I certainly was not expecting that.” she adds.
The package she was alerted to turned out to be the commons area packed with TV cameras, Park Place neighbors, family members and seven members of the Merrill Police Department consisting of Chief Ken Neff, Captain Corey Bennett, Patrol Lieutenant Greg Hartwig, Investigative Lieutenant Pat Wunsch, School Resource Officer (SRO) Mark Heckendorf, Officer Matt Waid and Officer Robert Caylor.
Lenore was escorted inside with son-in-law Gay (Sally) Oberg at her side. She was immediately greeted by each member of the Merrill Police Department with Happy Birthday wishes, as well as hugs from her many family members present.
“It was a pleasure to be included today in celebrating Lenore’s birthday,” said Neff. “We honor the sacrifice of her late husband Elmer Krueger every year, and it was an honor for us to be invited here today.”
As Neff alluded to, Lenore is the widow of the late Captain Elmer Krueger who lost his life in the line of duty in the early morning hours of July 19, 1952.
According to an account of the fateful summer night of July 12, 1952, 40-year-old Elmer was off-duty and attending a dance with Lenore at what was then Lincoln School (now Walgreens).
During the dance, Elmer was approached by concerned dance attendees who stated a “drunk was peeking in windows.”
Krueger excused himself and went outside to make contact with Joseph B. Weber.
Weber reportedly left the area, only to return a short time later. Krueger made contact with Weber once again at which point Weber reportedly stated he was “looking for a place to stay for the night.” Krueger offered to walk him across the street to the jail so Weber could “sleep it off.”
As the pair crossed the street, Weber reportedly drew a .22 handgun from his waistband and fired four shots, striking Krueger twice in the abdominal area and once in the leg.
Weber was taken into custody at gunpoint a short time later while Krueger was rushed to Holy Cross Hospital.
Despite various procedures to help him recover from his wounds, Captain Krueger succumbed to his injuries a week later, in the early morning hours of July 19, 1952.
“Captain Krueger is the only Merrill Police officer to have lost his life in the line of duty,” Neff added. “He will never be forgotten. His memory makes this a special occasion for us.”
On Tuesday, following the initial “shock” as Lenore coined the surprise, she enjoyed cake and punch with those in attendance.
As Lenore explained, Park Place staff were quite effective in maintaining the element of surprise.
“I knew something was off because they postponed a club meeting this afternoon which has been meeting in here for years,” Lenore said. “I didn’t pay it much mind you know, I just figured something else came up. But boy I never imagined anything like this! I never expected this, not in a million years!” she adds with a warm smile as she glances around at her family members at her side.
“We knew ahead of time,” Sally adds. “We weren’t sure how she would react but this was very nice what everyone did for her today.”
Following Tuesday’s festivities, Lenore was wisked away by Sally and Gay Oberg (Merrill) as well her son Charles Krueger (Menomonie, Wis) daughter-in-law Mary Pat and several grandchildren, to dinner at 2510 Restaurant in Wausau.
Researched by Michael J. Caylor Jr
8-18-76
In area briefs: The Merrill Police Officers union has accepted a contract offer from the city. The union has agreed to a 7.8% wage increase retroactive to Jan. 1. The officers’ longevity will also increase .25 per month. A Tomahawk woman was killed in a car crash this past Saturday morning. The incident took place on Hwy. 51 north of Tomahawk at 4:45 a.m. Police suspect Linda Teal, 18, of Tomahawk, fell asleep before she crossed the centerline and struck a vehicle occupied by a couple from Riverside, IL. They suffered serious injuries in the crash and remain hospitalized. Det. Sgt. Dave Haskins of the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office has attended a special school at Appleton for crime prevention. Topics in the class, which was offered at Fox Valley Technical Institute, included lock security and parent youth relationships. This was the first such class offered in Wisconsin. Robert Southworth has announced the opening of his dentistry office at 110 N. Prospect St.
How is that for a serenade? More than two dozen Girl Scouts hiked from the newly created Girl Scout camp on Olivotti Lake to the home of William Olivotti the man who donated the land for the recreation area which now hundreds of young girls will call home throughout the summer. After a picnic on his lawn, William gave the girls a hay ride back to the camp.
A new restaurant is coming to Merrill. Donald and Gerald Whitburn, owners of Whitburn Motor Company in Merrill have announced their intention to build a restaurant in the Pine Ridge area east of Merrill off of State Rd. 64 and US Hwy. 51. Jim Lee of Marshfield has agreed to sign a long term lease for the facility which should be open by this fall. Lee plans on naming the restaurant Pine Ridge; Lee currently operates the Patio Restaurant in Marshfield but will be moving to Merrill. Lee predicts the restaurant will create a significant number of new jobs and will not only accommodate Merrill residents but travelers from the nearby highway as well.
The summer ball season is wrapping up with the city and county leagues. Thanks to Mark Simon’s no hit shut-out pitching performance the Merrill Giants captured the Lincoln County Baseball League crown this past Sunday, cruising to a 9-0 win over the Beacon Bar. Simon’s stellar pitching performance was almost spoiled after Beacon’s Bob Grunenwald hit what appeared to be solo homerun, only to have it pulled back by the Giant’s Greg Ament who had his back up against the fence as he made the catch with two out in the ninth inning. In the city slow pitch league Bud and Dee’s held off a 14-hit attack from the Blatz Bombers with a 6-4 victory. With the National Division title in hand Bud and Dee’s will now move to take on Paul’s Pub in the championship contest.
8-20-86
School is back in session as of Monday and Merrill’s Police Chief Charles Johnson is reminding motorists to use caution in school zones. The public awareness program is called “School’s open – drive carefully,” and it includes posters and bumper stickers which will be placed around the city to remind motorists of the need to use caution. Police Lt. Don Trantow is pictured on page one with Gabriel Steinagel, one of the patrol members of the safety patrol at St. John’s School.
The Family Medical Clinic in Merrill has announced two firsts this week, the first female doctor on staff and the first husband and wife doctor pair in the city. Dr. Greg Gill and his wife Dr. Kathy Krohn-Gill have taken up residence in Merrill and both will begin in September with the Gills splitting their work days in order to spend maximum time with their four-month-old daughter Molly. Dad will work Monday through Wednesday while mom will work Wednesday through Friday. Dr. Greg Gill is a native of Wisconsin Rapids, but you can expect to find him wearing blue this fall as he takes on the responsibility of team doctor for the Merrill Bluejays. Dr. Kathy Krohn-Gill is a native of neighbor Port Edwards; she does not have an emphasis in medicine but expects she will be seeing mostly children and women as her patients. Both doctors are graduates of UW Madison Medical School and were drawn to Merrill by their love for the north woods, excellent schools, and the family oriented community that Merrill has to offer. (Still here, still caring for the sick)
Hardee’s has a new burger and a big ad on page 11 bragging it up. This is called the mushroom and Swiss burger, and you can get it in a combo for only $2.59.
The first annual Irma State Fair is in the books and except for the lack of people it was a smashing success. The star of the weekend Forrest Tucker shared his comedic look at life with the audience and his anecdotes brought smiles to the faces of both young and old. Other headliners at the weekend event were Jaye P. Morgan, Tiny Tim, and Bill Halley’s Comets. Florence was also crowned Rock and Roll Queen for the weekend. Bill Rebane was the promoter of the event, and he noted that special commemorative 90 minute videos will be available for sale featuring Tiny Tim and the Midnight Wind Band. Rebane hopes to find some other local talent to add onto the video and is also looking at hosting an Octoberfest at his Shooting Bar Ranch and Motion Picture Studios. He also hopes to grow on the success of the Irma State Fair by bringing such acts as Tiny Tim, Bill Haley’s Comets, and the Beach Boys to Irma, with perhaps having Tucker back as well. (As I noted earlier, Tucker fell later this month when he was on his way to the ceremony for his star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame, dying by October)
8-21-96
A large feier will be held this weekend as congregants of Faith Lutheran Church in the Town of Maine celebrate their 125th year serving the Lord. In the early days of northern Wisconsin traveling preachers known as circuit riders worked as pastors to the settlers. Soon pioneers from Mecklenburg, Pomerania, Hanover, and other German cities decided to organize themselves as a Christian congregation in order to have a regular service instead of having to rely on the circuit riders. By 1870, 22 families had organized and purchased an acre of land from C. Erdman for use as their own church and cemetery. By 1871 the congregation was officially organized as Zion Lutheran Church and Rev. William Rehwinkel was the pastor. By 1876 fire had destroyed the first church but a second church was built and soon it was replaced by a much larger structure in 1901. The majority of the services were said in the German language until 1928 when they recognized the children had trouble following the services.
The trip north will be a little shorter as paving is underway for the expansion of the US Hwy. 51 expressway. The project will provide a four lane road from where it ends just north of Merrill until just south of Tomahawk. It is hoped to have the new road open by October.
Jeremy Ratliff
Reporter
During Tuesday evening’s meeting of the Lincoln County Board of Supervisors, Highway Commissioner Kelly Reith brought forth a proposal in the form of a resolution. for a $20 vehicle registration fee for county residents. The agenda item was brought forth as a possible local solution to a statewide issue of lacking funding for road maintenance and repair.
“This is a statewide dilemma, not just a Lincoln County issue,” Reith stated. “We have had discussions about a number of communities who are looking at adopting something like this. Area communities such as Wausau are currently looking at this possibility. Costs for work have gone up, people are driving less miles and cars are getting more miles to the gallon. This has all led to a decline in funding from gas taxes and Wisconsin ranks as one of the lowest states in our area of the country, in terms of gas tax paid.
“By state statute these funds would be used only for road maintenance and repairs. The $20 per vehicle registration fee collected by the DOT would be turned over to the county. As of July 29, just over 29,000 vehicles in the county would qualify for this fee. Registration fees would be a very effective way to move forward as a significant funding source.”
If the resolution were to gain board approval, Reith added an estimated $534,000 would be generated annually to be applied toward highway funding.
16th District Supervisor Mike Loka spoke in opposition to the resolution.
“If we do this, we would be doing Madison’s dirty work for them. Rather than take the time to look at how to increase funding for the counties in the state, they will use this as an excuse to overlook us. If we stand together as a county and keep the pressure on the governor and the legislature, this issue will be solved at the state level where it should be.”
District 9 Supervisor Bill Zeitz and District 4 Supervisor Corey Nowak also opposed the measure.
“I agree with Supervisor Loka. I feel it would be inappropriate to consider this at this time,” Zeitz said. “Let’s wait a little bit to see what happens, if nothing happens then bring it back another time.”
“It’s just not fair to our local residents to pay for this locally, while other people from around the state come in and drive on our roads as well,” Nowak echoed. “I think it’s up to the state to fund this. It’s not fair to our tax payers.”
District 14 Supervisor Brian Hafeman agreed.
“If we keep going along with ‘ok we’ll fix it locally’ things will never get fixed at the state level.”
District 20 Supervisor Carl Vander Sanden was the only voice in favor of the action Tuesday.
“I don’t know of anyone in Lincoln County who cannot afford $20 to help fix the roads they are inflicting wear and tear on. These funds can only be used by the county for the intended purpose of road maintenance and repair. I am 100% in support of this.”
As a result of a roll call vote, the resolution was defeated 18-4.
Vander Sanden, District 19 Supervisor Julie Allen, District 21 Supervisor Kortney Pike and District 5 Supervisor Garth Swanson voted in favor.
In other matters on Tuesday, the board of supervisors unanimously approved a resolution to increase Lincoln County Jail staffing from 21 to 24 correctional officers.
“We ideally would have five staff on per shift,” Sheriff Jeff Jaeger explained. “But, due to a staffing shortage, we have been operating with four per shift. This has forced us to violate some of our own policies such as having one officer performing security checks rather than two, which we would normally have. I’m sure you can imagine the sort of safety risk that presents.”
Upon approval Tuesday, the sheriff’s office will proceed with filling three Correctional Officer vacancies.
The total value of taxable Wisconsin properties rose a modest 3% this year to $505.1 billion. However, they have still not reached their pre-recession peak recorded in 2008. This is the key finding from a Wisconsin Taxpayers Alliance (WISTAX) analysis of preliminary equalized value figures released by the state Department of Revenue.
Peak to trough, total state property valuations dropped 9.1% from a high of $514.4 billion in 2008 to a low of $467.5 billion in 2013. At prevailing appreciation rates, WISTAX estimates it will be 2017 before Wisconsin property markets erase the effects of an unprecedented five consecutive years of value decline.
The 2013-16 recovery in values has been steady, averaging 2.6% per year. However, that is modest compared to 2000-08, when statewide property valuation averaged growth of 7.6% per year.
Although total full-market property values increased 3% this year, appreciation was uneven, even spotty. Only 28 Wisconsin counties saw their values rise at rates that matched or exceeded the state average.
At the same time, 10 of the 72 counties reported valuation increases of more than 4%, and they were geographically limited. Six are centered in and around Eau Claire County, east of the Twin Cities. Three were in or near metro Madison, including Dane County. Kenosha, the other county in the top ten, is within commuting distance of greater Chicago.
Nine counties had values that declined or were flat. All are in the far northern part of Wisconsin, ranging from Sawyer and Bayfield in the west to Florence and Forest in the east. In most of these and neighboring counties, values of existing property declined even more, offset only slightly by new construction.
In the populous southeast, values in Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Waukesha, and Washington Conties rose at or slightly above the state average.
Lincoln County’s equalized value climbed just .4%, from $2.31 billion in 2015 to $2.32 billion in 2016.
Attorney Kevin J.T Terry of Ruder Ware Law Firm’s Wausau-branch, has been retained by the city to lead a formal investigation into removal of property authorized by City Administrator Dave Johnson, from the former Schultz Building at the Merrill Festival Grounds.
In what has since been coined ‘The Schultz Building Incident’ occurring last month, Johnson authorized a private individual from outside the county, to remove items from the building. The items had been stored there by Lincoln County and other entities, prior to the city taking ownership of the grounds from Lincoln County last year. While no documentation or inventory was ever created as to what was stored there or what exactly was removed, the items did include doors and tables which had originally been brought from the Lincoln County Courthouse.
County officials have since claimed ownership of some of the removed items and have indicated they were unaware the property had even been removed until July 16.
During Tuesday’s meeting of the Lincoln County Board, county Maintenance Director Pat Gierl indicated he had made contact with Johnson on several occasions, following an initial verbal agreement with Johnson last summer.
According to Gierl, Johnson agreed to allow items from the courthouse to be stored in the Schultz Building, pending completion of new county storage facility which was under construction at the time of the agreement. Gierl indicated he had intentionally made repeated contact throughout last summer and fall, so Johnson was aware the county was still interested in the property.
“We continually followed up with the city so they knew we would be coming back for our stuff,” he stated Tuesday night.
“It was an ongoing process, there was a lot of stuff to go through. The city was aware of our property being in the building, as I kept a set of keys to access the building when we were ready to recover our property. When I went to the building on July 16 to recover these items, they were gone. I contacted Mr. Johnson and indicated the property was gone. He indicated he had given the property away.”
Gierl indicated Merrill Fire Chief Dave Savone, who coordinated the removal of the property was coordinating the return as of Tuesday evening. The property has since been returned and as of Wednesday, is being stored at a county owned storage facility.
Last Tuesday the city’s Committee of the Whole discussed the matter at length and ultimately voted 6-2 (4th District Alderwoman Kandy Peterson and 5th District alderman/Council President John Burgener opposing) to pursue an outside investigation into the matter.
During discussion, 1st District Alderman Pete Lokemoen said there is no provision in the city code for a city employee to give away items.
“Even if the city was the owner of the items, there is no provision for a city employee to give them away to a private entity,” he added.
“He shouldn’t have done it, period,” Lokemoen said.
Mayor Bill Bialecki noted when the ordinance regarding disposition of property was drawn up, the city did not have a city administrator.
Alderman Tim Meehean made the motion to order an outside investigation.
“The city code needs to be interpreted as it relates to this case,” he indicated.
“The only way to get answers to this is to have a formal investigation from an external individual. Some people say Dave (Johnson) had the right to give away property under $1,000, some people say that’s not what the code said. The only way to get to the bottom of this is to have somebody impartial do an investigation and come back with a report.
“I just think this needs to be resolved and the only way to get it resolved is to have a formal investigation from somebody outside the city and make a report. We should have somebody like (attorney) Dean Dietrich do it. He can interpret the city code.”
Dietrich and Terry are both employed with Ruder Ware and specialize in local government representation and affairs.
Terry has indicated he intends to work with Dietrich in performing the official investigation.
While this is Terry’s first time working with the city, Dietrich has worked with the city on various occasions in the past for outside consultation, negotiations and union contracts.
During an interview with Terry on Thursday, he declined to go into any detail on projected length of the investigation, cost or what exactly the investigation will entail.
He did however indicate results will be turned over to the Common Council upon completion.
“When these types of investigations occur, people want results like yesterday,” he added.
“But I can tell you the investigation will be very thorough and the results will be reported to the city’s Common Council upon completion of our investigation.”
Terry has been employed with the firm since 2011 and has performed several similar investigations in both the private sector as well as local government and school districts.
During last week’s council meeting, Mayor Bialecki indicated the city does have money set aside for outside legal counsel which can be used in this case.
August 15
12:01 p.m.- An officer took a report of damage that had been done to a vehicle sometime in the past two weeks. No known suspects.
1:21 p.m.- An officer took a report of a domestic incident where the reporting party was struck by the other half. The officer obtained a statement and spoke to the other party. The report will be forwarded to the District Attorney’s office for review.
1:37 p.m.- An officer responded to the 100 block of West First Street after taking a report of light smoke coming from a hole in a tree. The investigating officer arrived and discovered that it appeared as if someone had attempted to burn a bee hive that was in the tree. Merrill Fire Department responded and extinguished the fire the rest of the way.
8:50 p.m.- Officers responded to a residence after receiving information that a male subject had struck a female subject. Contact was made with the individuals and it was found that the male subject had struck the female subject in the face. The male subject was arrested and transported to the jail on charges of battery and disorderly conduct.
August 16
7:05 a.m.- An officer took a report of damage to property at an apartment building. A suspect was identified and the officer will be speaking with the suspect.
An officer met with a subject who wished to report the theft of their handicap parking placard. No known suspects at this time.
11:40 a.m.- An officer was dispatched to a local business for a shoplifting complaint. The officer was able to review the video and the suspect was identified. The investigation is ongoing.
12:35 p.m.- Officers and deputies from the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office took a report of a vehicle that was traveling towards the city driving erratically. An officer located the vehicle and noted the same erratic driving behavior. A traffic stop was conducted and the operator displayed signs of impairment. The male operator was arrested for operating while under the influence 2nd offense. After the OWI processing and subsequent drug classification exam by the Merrill Police Department Drug Recognition Expert, the male subject was transported to the jail and was booked on charges of OWI 2nd, bail jumping and a probation violation.
August 17
9:59 a.m.- An officer conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle. The driver did not have a valid license and had numerous warrants for his arrest. The male party was cited for operating without a valid driver license, 4th offense and was arrested for the two active warrants.
4:47 p.m.- Officers responded to a bail jumping complaint. The female caller stated a male party who has a court bond to have no contact with her, came into her residence and used the bathroom and then left. The male was located riding his bicycle and was arrested for bail jumping.
August 18
7:45 p.m.- An officer responded to a stolen vehicle complaint. The caller stated they got information that their vehicle was seen in Wausau, which is when they found their vehicle had been stolen. Investigation is ongoing.
6:45 p.m.- An officer observed a male party who he knew had active warrants for his arrest. Contact was made with the male party and the three active warrants were verified. The male party was transported to the jail.
6:59 p.m.- An officer responded to a battery complaint. A juvenile was punched by another juvenile. The juvenile suspect was located and was taken into custody. Social Services was contacted and advised the juvenile could be released to a parent. The juvenile was released to their mother and the juvenile is being referred to Social Services for battery.
Merrill Area Public Schools Board of Education president Jen Seliger has been named in a civil action alleging the school board did not give proper notice of a closed session discussion in May.
According to the complaint filed July 26 by District Attorney Don Dunphy in Lincoln County Circuit Court, the board held a closed session at its May 25 meeting “for which a public notice, reasonaly likely to apprise the public of subject matter of the session, was not provided.”
The agenda for the May 25 meeting included a notice of the closed session, along with the statutory exemption allowing it. “The purpose of the closed session is for a presentation by administrators regarding a personnel matter,” the notice futher stated.
Whether that last statement was too vague is at the center of the issue.
A scheduling conference in the case is set for Sept. 28. If Seliger is found to be in violation of the state statute governing open meetings, the penalty is a forfeiture ranging from $25 to $300.
The Board of Education discussed the case in closed session Wednesday night, but did not take any action in open session.
Justin Mondeik of Gleason is back to his winning-ways this summer, and has continued to impress the auto racing community on and off the track. The local driving sensation was crowned Golden Sands Speedway’s Rookie Of The Year two weeks ago, and has his sights set on winning that same award at State Park Speedway and Marshfield Speedway in the upcoming weeks.
Last night at State Park Speedway, Justin made his debut in a new AGRA Industries Pathfinder Chassis Super Late Model. The team earned a heat race win, and after leading a majority of the laps in the feature race, he finished on the podium in 3rd place.
“Justin has a lot going for him right now,” said Ernest Hinner of AGRA Industries. “He’s 19 years old, clean-cut, comes from a great family, tutors physics at NTC, is a transfer officer and mechanical engineering major at Michigan Tech University, and is an engineering intern at AGRA. He is also a phenomenal driver, and continues to get better every race.”
Nicholas M. Hebert, 26 of Merrill, was charged August 17 with Felony-1st Degree Sexual Assault-Sexual Contact with person under the age of 13.
According to court records, Hebert was involved in an incident in the Town of Merrill in December of last year, during which he reportedly made unwanted sexual contact with an eleven-year old victim. According to court records, Hebert had attempted other unwanted contact a few months prior.
The incident was reported to the Lincoln County Sheriff’s Office via the Antigo Police Department on May 30th of this year and was immediately investigated.
Emmanuel P. Reyes, 29 of Lac Du Flambeau-was charged August 15 with Felony-Strangulation and Suffocation and Misdemeanor charges of Battery and Disorderly Conduct.
Reyes was reportedly involved in an incident in the City of Tomahawk on August 10 during which he was reportedly involved in an altercation with a female party.
According to court records, Reyes reportedly became upset after the victim turned the speakerphone off during a phone conversation. Reyes demanded to know why she turned the speakerphone off then reportedly threw a lighter at the victim. Reyes then reportedly dragged the victim by her hair into a bedroom and choked the victim several times. The victim reportedly suffers from a heart concidtion which reportedly caused her to lose consciousness as a result.
Selena E.A Flores, 17 of Merrill– was charged August 17 with Misdemeanor Retail Theft (under $500) and Misdemeanor Bail Jumping.
According to court records, Flores was involved in an incident in the city of Merrill on July 21, during which she was reportedly identified as a female party observed shoplifting two bottles of Vodka at a local store, via video surveillance. According to court records Flores admitted to the theft and had been cited on June 4, for shoplifting a bottle of liquor from another local store. When asked why she stole the liquor by the investigating officer, Flores reportedly told the officer she planned to get drunk.
Peter R. Gervais, 59 of Merrill– was charged August 16 with a Misdemeanor charge of Battery.
According to court records, Gervais was involved in an incident in the city of Merrill on August 15, during which he reportedly struck a female party in the face while on the front porch of her residence. According to court records, Gervais reportedly admitted to striking the victim due to being upset.
Gervais appeared in court once again on August 18 facing a Misdemeanor Bail Jumping charge.
According to court records, Gervais was involved in an incident in the City of Merrill on August 17 during which he visited the home of the victim of the pending Battery case. Gervais reportedly arrived at the residence, entered without the victim’s consent, used the restroom and departed on a bicycle.
As part of a signature bond signed on August 16, Gervais was to have no contact with the victim. The victim advised officers she has known Gervais for over 40 years and is now afraid of his behavior.
Craig S. Nance, 50 of Merrill– was charged August 17 with Felony-Forgery and a Misdemeanor charge of Theft of Moveable Property (under $2,500).
According to court records, Nance was involved in an incident on July 11 in the city of Merrill during which he attempted to cash a check belonging to another individual, in the amount of $800. Nance reportedly forged the proper owner’s signature to the check which caught the suspicion of bank staff where he was attempting to cash the check. Nance reportedly admitted to removing the check from a home without the victim’s consent, as the victim is currently residing in a care facility
A 29-year-old Merrill man was arrested on Monday evening at a home in the Town of Scott. Just after 7 p.m. a tipster related the man who was wanted by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections and the Marathon County Sheriff was outside of a home in the county. Deputies located the man in the yard and brought him to the Lincoln County Jail.
November is a long way off but Lincoln County Sheriff Jeff Jaeger is reminding residents to respect the rights of others this political season. This past week a deputy investigated the theft of several campaign signs on US Hwy. 8. Historically, campaign sign thefts are reported from both sides of the political aisle in the weeks leading up to major elections. “My deputies will treat each theft the same and hold anyone responsible that we are able to identify,” said Sheriff Jaeger. Residents placing signs are also reminded you cannot place them on public property or on highway right of ways.
A 24-year-old Merrill man was taken into custody early Friday morning after a traffic stop in the Town of Merrill. A deputy stopped the vehicle on Hillside Drive at Airport Road after he observed it cross the centerline. The driver was placed through field sobriety tests, as a result was taken into custody for a first offense of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. He was later released to a responsible party.
A 41-year-old Tomahawk woman was taken into custody early Saturday morning on a traffic charge. A deputy observed a vehicle drive out of a business on North Fourth Street in the City of Tomahawk just after 2 a.m. without its headlamps lit, the deputy observed the vehicle run over a curb and then cross the center line as it drove north on County Rd. CC. The deputy stopped the vehicle and placed the driver through field sobriety tests and arrested her for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated first offense. She was later released to a responsible party.
A 30-year-old Michigan man was arrested early Sunday morning after law enforcement responded to a report of a fight in the town of Scott. A 911 call reported the incident at 2 a.m. Deputies learned the suspect, who was from Gwinn, Mich., was intoxicated and had started fighting with several people at the home. The man was brought to the Lincoln County Jail where he was charged with disorderly conduct. He was released late Sunday morning after posting a cash bond. The Merrill Police Department assisted with the incident.
A 64-year-old Irma man was injured and cited after a one vehicle crash early Sunday morning in the Town of Merrill. At 4:12 a.m. a caller reported a vehicle had struck a power pole on State Rd. 107 near Taylor Drive. The man was transported to Ministry Good Samaritan Health Center before being transferred to St. Joseph’s Hospital for treatment of his injury. Alcohol was a factor in the crash and the driver was cited for a first offense of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated.
A 32-year-old Weston man was taken into custody early Sunday morning on a traffic charge. The man was passed out behind the wheel of a motor vehicle which was parked in a yard on Mile Square Road in the Town of Pine River. The deputy was investigating a report of a suspicious vehicle when he found the vehicle off the road. The driver was later released to a responsible party after he was cited for operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated first offense.
The number of car deer crashes has more than doubled as compared to previous weeks. Eight people reported striking deer in the county this past week. A bear was also struck, that animal was on US Hwy. 8 near Meyer Road when it was struck late Sunday night.
August 19
10:32 a.m.- An officer investigated a theft in the 700 block of South State Street. The investigation is ongoing.
12:07 p.m.- Officers investigated child abuse complaint. As a result, a female was arrested for Physical Abuse to a Child and Resisting Arrest.
4:21 p.m.- Officers located a male at the Library who had an active arrest warrant. The male was arrested and taken to the jail.
5:46 p.m.- A female was arrested and taken to the jail for an active arrest warrant.
7:58 p.m.- An officer located a male on East 3rd Street with an active arrest warrant. The male was taken to the jail.
10:29 p.m.- An officer conducted a traffic stop on South Center Avenue. As a result, a male was cited for failure to stop at a stop sign. The officer saw a meth pipe and also located a gem bag containing methamphetamine. The male was arrested and transported to the jail.
August 20
5:17 a.m.- Officers responded to the Econolodge for a disturbance. As a result, a female was arrested for Disorderly Conduct.
10:01 p.m.- Officers responded to a domestic disturbance on Liberty Street. As a result, a male was charged with Domestic Disorderly Conduct and False Imprisonment.
August 21
7:01 p.m.- An officer investigated a disturbance on Memorial Drive. As a result, a male was arrested for a Probation Violation.
Lowell G. “Manie” Wyma, age 80, of Merrill, passed away Sunday, August 21, 2016 at his home under the care of hospice. He was born in Racine, WI on August 7, 1936, the son of the late George and Marguerite (Ybema) Wyma.
Lowell served in the U.S. Army in 1955-1957. On September 8, 1956 he and Carol Hunter were united in marriage in Tacoma, WA. They moved back to Racine and raised their family. Lowell worked as an independent owner operator for twenty seven years and twelve years at Case Fleet. After retirement they moved to Merrill. There he drove another eleven years for Merrill Pavers. Lowell enjoyed his morning coffee with friends, motorcycle racing, camping, restoring old farm tractors and hunting. He was a member of The American Legion, Antique Tractor Club and Teamsters Union. Lowell was always there for his family, was a loving husband and a very hard worker. He was a member of St. Paul Lutheran Church, Pine River.
Survivors include his wife of nearly 60 years; Carol Wyma, Merrill; three children: Jeffrey (Beth) Wyma, Cheryl (Randy) Routheaux, and Dawn (Joseph) Hojan, all of Merrill; nine grandchildren: Jacob Wyma, Lizabeth (Mike) O’Malley, Rachel (Dustin) Gruett, Bradley Routheaux, Jillian (Colin) Schooley, Hannah Hojan, Samantha Hojan, Lauren Hojan and Reid Hojan; ten great-grandchildren: Isaiah, Samuel, Benjamin and Elliana Gruett, Gracie Wyma, Jack, Will, and Mike O’Malley, Adalyn and Beckett Schooley; sister: Susie (Donald) Jaeck, Racine; brother: Charles (Carolyn) Wyma, Racine; brother-in-law: Howie Latshaw, Kenosha; and many nieces, nephews and special friends. He was preceded in death by his parents and twin sister, Lois Latshaw.
Funeral services for Lowell will be held at 1:00 PMFriday, August 26, 2016 at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Pine River. Rev. Greg Laska with officiate. Visitation will be from 11:00 AM until the time of service, also at the church. Burial will follow in St. Paul’s Lutheran Cemetery, Pine River. Military Honors will be performed by VFW Post #1638 at the cemetery. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made atwww.waidfuneral.com.
Douglas A. Thums, 72, of Westboro, passed away at his home, surrounded by his family on Sunday August 21, 2016.
Doug was born March 7, 1944 to Leonard and Lorraine (Griffin) Thums, in Rib Lake, WI. He is a graduate of Rib Lake High School. Doug had been previously married three times.
He is survived by his significant other of twenty three years: Diane Dittrich of Westboro, Children:Lanny (Deanna) Thums of Westboro, Scott (Shelly) Thums of Rib Lake, Cameron (Page) Thums of Rib Lake. Stephchildren: Kelly, Lindsey, Kristen, Danny, Ricky, Seven grandchildren, and his best companion, Bear. He is further survived by two Brothers: Richard Thums, Robert (Sandra) Thums both of Rib Lake, Sisters: Arlene Fallos of Rib Lake, Alice Corbisier of Cudahy, Phyllis (Michael) Kolecheck of Rib Lake.
Doug is preceded in death by his Parents, and Brothers in Law: Claude Fallos and Francis Corbisier.
Doug worked with the 139 Operating Union at Merrill Sand and Gravel. Doug was proud of his community and enjoyed constructing and restoring buildings. In 1974 he built Little Rib and Pebble Valley Mobile Home Parks. He also owned Rustic Trail and The Other Corner Restaurants in Westboro. He also was a logger throughout his entire life, and enjoyed working in the woods. Doug will always be remembered as being a hard worker.
He was a member of 139 Operating Union and Good Shepherd Catholic Church.
A funeral mass will be held at 11:00 AM, Thursday August 25, 2016 at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Rib Lake, With Father Otto Bucher. Interment will follow St. Ann’s Cemetery, Town of Greenwood, Wisconsin. Visitation will be held 4:00 – 7:00 PM, Wednesday August 24, at Good Shepherd Catholic Church, Rib Lake, a prayer service will be held at 7:00 PM, and visitation will resume Thursday morning at Good Shepherd at 9:00 – 10:45 AM.
Hemer Funeral Service of Medford and Rib Lake has been entrusted with arrangements.
Memorial donations in honor of Douglas A. Thums can be given to his family, for designation at a later date. Online condolences can be left at www.hemerfuneralservice.com
Charles “Chuck” Pierotti, age 74, passed away peacefully at his residence while surrounded by his loving family on Saturday, August 20, 2016.
Chuck was born, the oldest of four children, on October 13, 1941 to the late Hans and Dorathy (Hansen) Pierotti at their home in Pearl Lake, WI. He graduated from Wautoma High School and continued his education at Oshkosh State College for two years. He then transferred to the University of Wisconsin-Madison where he graduated with a Bachelor’s Degree in Civil Engineering.
Chuck served as City Engineer for the city of Merrill for 34 years until he retired in 2001. During his tenure, he oversaw the building of a sewage treatment facility, the addition of a new water tower and the building of a new water utility building and warehouse. He was also a certified water and wastewater operator and a member of the Wisconsin Wastewater Operator’s Association. He was very active in the Wisconsin Section of the American Water Works Association (AWWA) where he served as a Small Systems Advocate on the Board of Trustees. He was recognized in 1996 by the Wisconsin Water Association with the Leon A. Smith Award in recognition of distinguished service to the Association and for exceptional activity on behalf of the waterworks industry. In 2000, he was recognized nationally by the American Water Works Association with the George Fuller award for distinguished service to the water supply field, and in particular, for his efforts to champion small systems. In 2007 he received the Wisconsin Water Works Lifetime Achievement Award. He was also very active in the community. He was a member of St. Francis Church, and a past member and officer of the Merrill Jaycees and Kiwanis Clubs. In 1976 he received the Merrill Jaycees Distinguished Service Award. He also served on the Board of Directors of the United Way and Merrill Area Development Corporation and the Merrill Action Committee. He was also a member of the Lincoln Stockmen, Lincoln Sportsmen’s club, Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited and Whitetails Unlimited.
Chuck is survived by his loving wife of 53 years: Kathy Pierotti, son: Michael (Cindi) Pierotti, daughter: Kris (John) Tsau, grandchildren: Nicholas Pierotti, Bailey Pierotti, Ryan Tsau and Anika Tsau, sisters: Jane (Jerry) Doro, Janice (Chester) Blader and Peggy (Tom) Heschke and many nieces and nephews. He is preceded in death by his parents: Hans and Dorathy (Hansen) Pierotti.
A Mass of Christian Burial for Chuck will be held on Friday, August 26, 2016 at 11am at St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church in Merrill. Fr. Jon Gerritts will officiate. Visitation will be held on Thursday, August 25, 2016 from 4pm-8pm at Waid Funeral Home, and again on Friday, August 26, 2016 from 9:30am until the 11am Mass, at the church.
Family wishes to extend their thanks and appreciation to Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services for their excellent care given to Chuck and to Aurora Medical Center in Oshkosh for their outstanding care and compassion they gave to Chuck and his family. In lieu of flowers, family requests that any memorials for Chuck be directed to the River Bend Trail, Water For People, The PolioPlus Program of The Rotary Foundation, Prostate Cancer Foundation or Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services.
Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com.
Presented are the Merrill Area Public School new hires for the 2016-2017 academic year.
Front Row L to R:
Chase DeCleene: Social Studies, MHS
Kim Fanzen-Hoff: Social Studies/Literature, PRMS
Amanda Goeden: 4th Grade Teacher, Kate Goodrich
Amber Englebert: Music (Choir), PRMS
Tiffany Townsend: Elementary Music, Washington
Kasie Holt: Counselor, MHS
Jane Schoepke: Special Education, PRMS
Karen Baker: Special Education and Pupil Services Director, District
Back Row L to R:
Doug Coddington: Kate Goodrich Principal
Joselyn Janz: Social Studies, MHS
Alyssa Yirkovsky: Science, MHS
Hannah Burmesch: English, MHS
Marcie Hanson: Special Education, PRMS
Lynn Curry: Instrumental Music, PRMS
Josh Olson: Music (choir), MHS
Jered Severt: Math, PRMS
Jacob Schalow: Elementary Physical Education, Jefferson
Alexandra Libby (McNamus): Counselor, MHS
Jordan Kratz: Technology Education, MHS.
Not pictured:
Nathan Hanson: Library/Media Technology, MHS
Robert Karl: Technology Education, MHS
David Olson: Special Education, MHS
Amy Owen: Special Education, Kate Goodrich
And of course, a certain district employee photobombing in the back…
In the wake of apparent intent by the Marathon County Board of Supervisors to terminate the 44-year-old Tri-County agreement of North Central Health Care, Lincoln County Supervisors weighed in on a drafted letter to Marathon County during last week’s monthly meeting.
If the withdrawal were to take place, Lincoln and Langlade counties could be left in a precarious position in terms of finding services currently provided by NCHC including mental health, AODA, children’s services from ages birth to three years of age as well as adult protective services.
The letter expressed both encouragement for Marathon County to uphold the agreement, as well as a warning of sorts.
In the letter on behalf of the board dated Aug. 16, reference partnership with Langlade and Marathon counties to operate a multi-county department of community programs known as North Central Health Care, the letter states;
“Since 1972, the governing bodies of Marathon, Lincoln and Langlade counties have partnered together to operate a multi-county department of community programs, known as the Northcentral Community Services Program or North Central Health Care (NCHC). We understand that the Marathon County Board of Supervisors will be asked to consider approving a resolution to withdraw from this partnership in the near future. “We believe our partnership can come together to modernize our current agreement to include stronger controls on service, quality and costs for services provided without initiating the withdrawal process. “The purpose of this letter is to advise you that Lincoln and Langlade counties remain committed to the partnership with Marathon County. In the event that Marathon County withdraws from this partnership, the joint agreement provides that North Central Health Care can continue with sponsorship by Lincoln and Langlade counties. Before the Marathon County Board considers a resolution to withdraw, we respectfully request that we first have the opportunity to discuss the matter as partners. Whether to withdraw from this partnership is a monumental decision which will have long-lasting implications for our communities. “Just as the creation of this partnership required all three counties to work together toward a common goal; we believe that it is in our best interests to work together at this time and provide us with the opportunity to improve the system we created over 40 years ago.”
2nd District Supervisor and board vice-chairman Bob Weaver spoke in favor of the letter.
“As Marathon County has continued the process of considering withdrawing from NCHC, they have excluded Lincoln and Langlade counties,” he said during discussion last Tuesday. “We believe we are at a point in the Marathon County decision making where the Marathon County Board must hear from the Lincoln County Board.
“Official and public statement from the Lincoln and Langlade county boards must make it clear we have had a great relationship for over 40 years. If they (Marathon) pull out, Lincoln County will not wait around and follow their lead. We are under the understanding, Marathon County feels if they pull the rug out from everyone, Lincoln and Langlade will contract with them for services. There are quite a few problems with that.”
District 12 Supervisor Paul Gilk spoke in caution of the letter and particular wording of the associated resolution.
“I feel language regarding ‘notice about preparations being made’ is not necessary and could be seen as being provocative,” he explained. “I don’t think we should tell them we will not use their services. We may end up having to use them. I’m not happy about it but it’s a possibility.”
The language in the resolution Gilk is referring to reads: “WHEREAS, given the actions undertaken by the Marathon County Board, Lincoln County is compelled to and is currently reviewing its options. At this time, the Administrative and Legislative Committee recommends providing notice to its partners (Marathon and Langlade County Boards) regarding the preparations being made by Lincoln County to transition the delivery of its community programs and WHEREAS, among the options being considered by the Committee include joining an existing multi-county departments of community programs, and/or continuing Northcentral Health Care with Langlade County, and at this time, it is appropriate to notify our partners that Lincoln County is considering contractual arrangements with other counties and service providers to ensure smooth transition of these services to residents of Lincoln County”
“I don’t think we should be sticking our thumbs in anyone’s eye,” Gilk continued. “I don’t want this body to send any message which may be perceived as we are a bunch of snots. Even if we are angry and disappointed, courtesy is still important.”
“I am under the impression Marathon County is trying to dissolve NCHC as an entity and then have Lincoln and Langlade contract with them,” argued County Corporation Counsel Nancy Bergstrom. “The difference between NCHC being owned by three counties and Marathon County delivering all services is, Marathon County alone sets the price and we just go along with it. That paragraph is written as is, to send the message for them not to assume we will just go along with this.”
11th District Supervisor Hans Breitenmoser spoke in favor of the need for a strong message to be sent across the southern county border.
“If Corporation Counsel is correct and Marathon County thinks they have us over a barrel, maybe our language needs to be even stronger,” he added. “I’m confident some Marathon County supervisors have the idea they have us over a barrel and we will come to them for services, so maybe we should make it clear they should not assume we will use their services.”
“I have read the letter over several times and I think the language states exactly what we have been feeling and discussing as a board,” added 20th District Supervisor Carl Vander Sanden.
“I don’t like the idea of talking tough either,” said board chairman Bob Lee. “But I think we are sending an honest message here. I don’t think we are insulting anyone here, but we are taking a position with this letter.”
Administrative Coordinator Randy Scholz indicated he planned to take the board’s message to a public hearing held Monday evening by the Marathon County Health and Human Services committee.
“I plan to speak at the hearing but I won’t be sticking my thumb in anyone’s eye,” Scholz said. “My message will be polite, but I think it’s important they know where we stand on this.”
“The saddest part of all this is the need for these services will not go away,” added 1st District Supervisor Bill Bialecki. “I commend this board for pursuing this.”
As Scholz alluded to, the Marathon County Health and Human Services Committee adjourned Monday evening with a public hearing.
As noted on that meeting agenda, the explanation of the hearing is as follows:
“Recommendation adopted by this committee to be forwarded to the County Board for further action: Marathon County shall terminate the existing tri-county agreement with the intention that Marathon County seek to contract for behavioral health and AODA services with service providers through its standard procurement process. For the first three years following the effective date of the termination (calendar years 2018, 2019, 2020), North Central Health Care would be the provider of these services unless equal levels of services can contracted for a lower cost. In the event equal levels of care and equal levels of service quality can be obtained at a lower cost from a provider other than North Central Health Care, Marathon County is free to contract with said providers.”
“We need to make sure we are providing for our tax payers and continue with services required and mandated of us,” Scholz stated following board approval of the letter and resolution last Tuesday. “We’re not going to sit around and wait to see what Marathon County chooses to do, that would not be fair to our county residents.
“We will be proactive in seeing what options are out there and available to us. Our board and the Langlade County board hopes to continue with the NCHC agreement. If Marathon chooses to pull out, we have to look at ways to provide those services. It will be a bit tougher for us seeing as how the NCHC facility is located in Wausau and under Marathon County control.”
