Another gallery of photos from the 2015 Lincoln County Fair.

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Betty J. Wolff, age 90, of Merrill, died Friday, July 24, 2015 at Pine Crest Nursing Home, Merrill.
Betty was born November 2, 1924, in White Lake, Wisconsin, daughter of the late Wesley and Ann (Hehling) Turbin. She married Walter F. Wolff on May 17, 1947, at St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ, Merrill. He survives. Betty was a lifelong member of St. Stephen’s United Church of Christ. Betty worked at Weinbrenner Shoe Company in Merrill, and retired in 1984. In her younger years, Betty played softball for the Merrill Cardinals. She also enjoyed bowling, pitching horseshoes, shooting pool, shopping, and playing cards and BINGO. Betty had a great love for her grandchildren and great-grandchildren.
Survivors include her husband, Walter Wolff of Merrill; one daughter, Sandra (Ken) Mootz of Merrill; two sons, Gary (Diane) Wolff of Merrill and Scott (Sylvia) Wolff of Dalzell, South Carolina; four grandchildren Lisa (Brad) Sturm, Jason (Kristina) Mootz, Aaron (Katie) Mootz, and Stacey Parker; seven great-grandchildren, Valerie, Caylie, Damien, Zoey, Lincoln, Kensley, and Lucas; several step grandchildren and step great-grandchildren; and one sister, Dorothy Bellin of Wausau. Betty was preceded in death by her parents; her brother, Lloyd Turbin; her sister-in-law, Anita Turbin; and her brother-in-law, John Bellin.
The memorial service will begin at 11:00 A.M. Friday, July 31, 2015, at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. Pastor Missy Holdorf will officiate. Inurnment will follow in the Veteran’s Memorial Section at St. Francis Cemetery, Merrill. The family will receive friends beginning at 9:00 A.M. Friday at the funeral home.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

Harvey Stanley Fox, born September 20, 1941 to Morris Fox of Iron Mountain, Michigan and Marion Berzansky Fox of Milwaukee, Wisconsin, died July 10, 2015 at Aspirus Hospital, Wausau. Harvey is survived by his wife of 27 years, Irene Melonas, and four children to whom he was a beloved father: George Grammas (Carolynn), Annapolis, Maryland, Dean Grammas (Misty), Hudson, Wisconsin, Sarah Brock (Chris Gerboth), Wausau, Wisconsin, and Rebecca Macholl (Jerrad), Catawba, Wisconsin. He is also survived by seven grandchildren: Eleanor, Sebastian, Hunter, and Nick Grammas, Madelyn and Jackson Macholl, and Audrianna Harley Macholl, born July 12, 2015. In addition to his human family, Harvey leaves behind five rescue animals, two dogs and three cats: Rosie, Biddy, Lacey, Zoe, and Cuddles, and we know that he is joined over the rainbow bridge for four more: Andy, Wusha, Charlie, and Molly.
Harvey graduated with a Ph.D. in Mathematics from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. He taught at UW-Waukesha for many years, and for 15 years at UW-Marathon County. He retired in 2010. Harvey was a passionate educator and more than a bit of an undefined equation, who touched the lives of thousands of students with his humor and love of mathematics. He had a passion for books and collected and read over 2000 on various topics which kept his mind active and engaged when he was no longer able to spend his days with his students.

Rosella U. Moyer, age 98, of Merrill, died Monday, July 27, 2015, at Pine Crest Nursing Home, under the care of her family, the nursing home staff, and hospice services.
Rosella was born May 2, 1917, in Merrill, daughter of the late Erwin and Mabel Koehler. She married Morris Moyer on June 29, 1935, in Merrill. He preceded her in death on May 7, 1999. She attended Snow Hill School and was confirmed at St. Stephens Church, Merrill. Rosella and her late husband dairy farmed in the Town of Merrill for 25 years. After retiring, they moved to Division Street in Merrill. Rosella enjoyed cooking and baking, and playing cards. Family and family memories were very important to her. Rosella made sure that birthdays and anniversaries were celebrated.
Survivors include one daughter, Jane (David) Hill, of Phoenix, AZ; one son, Richard (Michele) Moyer, of Merrill; a daughter in law, Mary Ann Kufahl, of Merrill; eight grandchildren, Brenda (Curtis) Chase, of Mesa, AZ, Cheryl (Michael) Ott, of San Diego CA, Daniel (Melody) Hill, of Glendale, AZ, Debra (Todd) Berndt, of Merrill, Tim (Mary) Moyer, of Merrill, Lynn (Vern) Von Ruden, of Marshfield, WI, Julie (Marc) Ertl, of Blaine, MN, and Sheila (Todd) Olson, of Oakdale, MN; ten great-grandchildren, Tyler, Savannah, Christa, Megan, Alex, Phillip, Andrew, Catherine, Jack and Ian; two step grandchildren, Nicholas and Meredith; four step great-grandchildren, Noah, Weston, Willow, and Waverlynn; and one sister, Joan Lukes, Merrill. Rosella was preceded in death by her parents, Erwin and Mabel Koehler; one son, Arlan Moyer; one sister, Luella Storm; and three brothers, Ervin, Myron, and Kenneth Koehler.
The funeral service will be held at 2:00 P.M. Friday, July 31, 2015, at Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill. The Rev. Kenneth Albers will officiate. Burial will follow in Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery. Visitation will be from 4:00 P.M. until 7:00 P.M. Thursday at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, and after 1:00 P.M. Friday at the church.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com
“Rest in peace Grandma. I bet you’re already baking for Grandpa and your friends. Grandma is baking for all the angels. She is not hurting. She is really in Heaven.”

Penny M. Cherwenka Steinfest, age 45, of Poy Sippi, WI, fought a long, hard battle with cancer and on July 27, 2015, she won that battle. Penny was born on December 1, 1969 in Merrill to the late Edward and Betty (Davis) Cherwenka. She attended and graduated from Merrill High School.
During her adult years, she worked at Milestone Materials / Mathy as a scale operator for many years. Penny was also self-employed with T&P for 18 years, selling Christmas trees and flowers.
To Penny, her daughters were her world. She adored her girls and would spend as much time with them as possible. Penny was a “Cheer Mom” for her daughters while they were playing sports for school and she was their biggest fan! Being the loving and caring person that she was, Penny would put her girls and the rest of her family first at all times. Penny enjoyed 4-H and spending time with her family on their hobby farm with their horses, puppies and kittens. She would enjoy taking four-wheeler rides around the hobby farm, enjoying nature and her animals. Penny would often enjoy spending beautiful days riding on a Harley with Erik. She was a proud member of the Winona Co. Sheriff’s Mounted Posse Search & Rescue. Penny was a strong woman, and fought her battle with courage and strength. She will be sadly missed.
Penny is survived by her boyfriend: Erik Proehl and his son, Chance Proehl of Poy Sippi; her three daughters: Samantha Steinfest, Amanda Steinfest and Melinda Steinfest, all of Merrill; her beloved friend: Tim Steinfest of Merrill; her grandson: Colton Lee; sister: Wendy (Dave) Bartz of Wautoma, WI; brother: Jodi Cherwenka of Minnetonka, MN; nephews: Jeremy Bartz and Christopher Bartz; and niece: Shannon Bartz. Penny was preceded in death by her parents: Edward and Betty (Davis) Cherwenka.
Funeral Services for Penny will be held on Friday, July 31, 2015 at 2pm at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill. Visitation will be held on Friday, July 31, 2015 and will begin at 11am and continue until the time of the service, also held at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill. Pastor Gregory Laska will officiate. Burial will be at Snow Hill Cemetery following the service. Donations may be made in Penny’s name to the Breast Cancer Research Foundation. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Scott Steven Bonitz, age 47, died unexpectedly on July 23, 2015 at his residence in Merrill, WI. Scott was born on May 7, 1968 to Gary and Cynthia (Yonker) Bonitz in Edgar, WI. Scott attended and graduated from DC Everest High School in Schofield, WI. After high school, he enlisted in the United States Army.
Scott worked most of his adult life as a carpenter, known to be able to build anything and was a “Jack of all Trades”. His family was always impressed by his ability to craft something unique out of ordinary materials, whether it was building or cooking, Scott was an amazing cook. He loved being outdoors, whether it was just being in the woods or on the lake fishing. The relationship that Scott has developed with the Lord was very important to him. His children were also very important to him.
Scott is survived by his 3 daughters: Stephanie Leopold of Rothschild, Sonya Bonitz of Merrill and Sabrina Bonitz of Wausau; his mother, Cynthia Bonitz of Stevens Point; 6 grandchildren, Peyton, Chloe, Jonathan, Bella, Joslyn and Amari; his sisters, Betty (Dave) Boren of Washington, Virginia Anderson of Amberg, Tammy (Mark) Welch of Merrill, Tawny (Randy) Anderson of Merrill; Rainy Day of New York and Mindy (Chris) Cooper of Stevens Point; his Brother, Niron Bonitz of Neenah; Ex-wife, Sharon Glatczak of Merrill; and many nieces and nephews.
He was preceded in death by his father, Gary Bonitz.
A Memorial Service for Scott will be held on Friday, July 31, 2015 at 7pm at Waid Funeral Home in Merrill, WI. Visitation will be held on Friday, July 31, 2015 from 6pm – 8pm, also at Waid Funeral Home. Pastor Christopher Cooper will officiate. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences can be made at www.waidfuneral.com.

Jeremy Ratliff
Reporter
After nearly 45 years of service to the community and its participants, the Merrill Community Enrichment Center is ready for a change.
The first senior center in Merrill, known as the “Senior Drop-In Center,” opened in 1971 in the former city hall building on East 2nd Street. In 1977, when city hall transferred to its present location, the center followed and opened in the basement of city hall.
When Enrichment Center director Tammie Mrachek stepped in for the retired Jane Deau last summer, one of her immediate goals was to begin searching for a larger and more suitable location for the center.
Since then, the first-year director is optimistic based on the support she has received for the idea of a new center, but cites cost as the key hurdle to progress.
“I’m very pleased with the support we have received from city officials,” Mrachek explains. “City administrator Johnson and Kathy Unertl have been very supportive and are cognizant of our need for a new location as is our Committee on Aging. But it all comes down to finances. Everything does. We just don’t have the funding we need.”
Mrachek lists several factors which led to her plight for relocation, but safety tops the list.
“Above all else, I want our participants to be safe and comfortable when visiting the center. I feel we could provide a safe, conducive environment than we are right now, being located in the basement,” Mrachek adds.
Amidst the many safety concerns Mrachek mentions are limited access and exit to the center as well as limited parking within close proximity to the center.
“On a busy day, some of our visitors may have to walk a considerable distance. I would like to avoid that,” she adds.
Other concerns Mrachek has of the center’s current location include limited activity space and the lack of windows in the center.
“One of our primary goals for the center is to expand our services into the community. We would love to be able to conduct multiple activities at the same time. We would also like the opportunity to work with various community groups and clubs. As of right now, we just don’t have the space. When we have our community meal for example, we do not have room to run any other activity.”
The Enrichment Center’s meal program was made possible due to the generosity of the Bierman Family Foundation.
Thanks to the family’s donation, the Merrill Community Enrichment Center provides a community meal on three Thursdays each month.
With the help of volunteers, donations and wise shopping, the center has fed as many as 80 people with a tasty yet nutritionally balanced meal, in a cost effective manner. Leftovers from the meal are then delivered to HAVEN and in the winter months, meals are delivered to community members who are unable to leave their homes.
The Bierman Family has also donated funding used to purchase a new bus for the center, which has since enabled participants to visit other areas both within and outside the community.
“The bottom line is, the center is no longer adequate for the population we serve,” Mrachek said. “Our vision has changed over the last 44 years. Statistics show 50% of our population here in Lincoln County is aged 35 and older. That means we have a growing population of individuals who may be interested in our services and activities we offer.”
Currently, Mrachek is considering all available options.
“The challenge is finding an existing facility in Merrill, which would accommodate our needs.”
However, Mrachek is quick to add the center is still very open to moving to an existing location, if a suitable location is found.
The other option is the construction of a brand new facility, and thanks to the help of Wausau based Becher-Hoppe Architects, a conceptual site plan has been drawn for a new facility.
“The city works with Becher Hoppe on a variety of things,” Mrachek said. “In June we defined our need for a new facility and were approved to be on the capital budget. Cost is an issue either way. Moving to an existing location is the more cost effective option, with an estimated cost to be under a million dollars. A brand new facility would cost around two million.”
The current facility measures approximately 7,200 square feet, according to Mrachek. The goal for a different facility would be between 10-12,000 square feet.
Although there are many amenities Mrachek would like to see in a new center, she cites a larger dining area, a multi-purpose room and separate areas for crafts and fitness as the most essential.
“Many of our visitors enjoy craft work and sewing, so some type of craft area would be a priority,” she said. “A safe and comfortable place to exercise is also important to us and to our visitors. Whether it be a walking track or an exercise room, I would like to have some type of exercise area.”
Key requirements for a different location on Mrachek’s list include handicap accessibility, ample exits and the area be located on one main level to avoid the need for stairs or elevators.
“Ultimately, I would like to see an enrichment center that is highly visible to the community, welcoming and able to adequately serve our visitors.” Mrachek adds. “I know this will not be cheap by any means, but while we search for the best option, we are also seeking grants and other funding sources to help with the cost. We are prepared to do whatever it takes to make this happen.”

Jeremy Ratliff
Reporter
During its regular monthly meeting on Monday evening, the city Health and Safety Committee unanimously approved amending a standing city ordinance pertaining to the keeping of chickens.
The amendment was brought forth by 7th District alderman Rob Norton.
During Monday’s meeting, Norton stated he had been made aware of a residence in the city, illegally possessing chickens due to not following the proper channels.
“I felt we could change the wording of the ordinance so this family can be in compliance with city ordinance,” Norton stated.
The key changes Norton proposed includes the provisions:
• If the premises where the chickens are kept is not owner occupied, property owner must consent, and;
• The principal use of the property where a chicken coop and yards, and buildings or yards may be permitted is limited to one and two single- family dwellings.
Other provisions for the ordinance amendment include requiring an agreement between landlords and/or tenants on the keeping of chickens, as well as the name of the landlord and/or tenants being included on the city application to keep chickens.
During discussion, 6th District Alderman Dave Sukow spoke in favor of the amendment, but also voiced caution on potential ramifications of the amendment.
“I’m willing to send this on to let the council have a crack at it,” Sukow said. “But I just hope we aren’t opening Pandora’s Box at the same time.”
As Sukow alluded to, the measure will be passed on for common council approval at its August meeting.

On Wednesday at 2:22 p.m. the Merrill Fire Department and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources were dispatched for a tree that fell across a power line off Forest Drive and Council Grounds Drive. Smoke was coming up through the trees.
Engine 62, Medic 61, Brush 66 and Lincoln County Sheriff’s Department Deputy responded to Forest drive. Upon arrival it was determined that power lines were down on the ground and there was additional fire in Council Grounds in the area of the beach. Brush 66, Lincoln County Deputy and Merrill DNR Ranger responded to Council Grounds. The beach area was evacuated and the scene was secured for by-standers safety.
Wisconsin Public Service was called to evaluate and disconnect power to the lines that were on the ground. Power was disconnected and the lines were grounded so that fire crews could safely extinguish the ground fires that were caused by the downed power lines.
Fire crews from Engine 61, Brush 66 and Merrill DNR Ranger extinguished the fires by use of hand lines, bladder bags and hand tools. The total area of the fire involvement is being determined by Merrill DNR Ranger.

Lincoln County Highway Commissioner, Mike VanDeWeerd, advises that CTH J between CTH H and Wedlers Pond Road in the Town of Birch will be closed Thursday, July 30 from 6 a.m.–6 p.m.; and Monday, Aug. 3 from 6 a.m.–6 p.m. due to asphalt paving.

The following cases were heard in Municipal Court on July 27, 2015. All have pleaded guilty or no contest.

Operate MV w/out insurance
David J. Brandenburg, Merrill, $124, speeding, $98.80; Nathan J. Hoffman, Merrill, $124, non-registration of auto, etc., $98.80, fail to properly maintain exhaust system, $98.80; James L. Pankow, Athens, $124; Lisa M. Prueser, Merrill, $124; Derrick R. Simon, Merrill, $124; Cory B. Weiler, Tomahawk, $124, operate after rev./susp. of registration, $98.80.

Speeding
Cole A. Catlin, Merrill, $124; Lauren A. Crockett, Plover, $124; Lisa L. Kittel, Merrill, $174.40; Austin L. Sommer, Merrill, $98.80; Warren Yeskis, Merrill, $98.80.

Safe & sanitary maintenance of property
Gloria J. Clark, Merrill, $880.

Marijuana possession
Alexander P. Dettmering, Tripoli, $199.60, drug paraphernalia possession, $199.60.

Fail to yield right of way from stop sign
Rebecca J. Hehling, Merrill, $98.80.

Display unauthorized vehicle registration plates
Erin F. Kamrath, Merrill, $161.80.

Operate w/out valid license
Milton D. McCants, Merrill, $124.

Fail to yield while making left turn
Miranda C. Mccarthy, Merrill, $98.80.

Non-registration of auto, etc.
Gail L. Mccullough, Boulder Juncion, $98.80.

Inattentive driving
Patricia A. Mooney, Merrill, $111.40, operate MV w/out insurance, $124.

Operate after suspension
Jared J. Mootz, Merrill, $124.

Operate after revocation
T.J. L. Myers, Merrill, $124.

Unsafe backing of vehicle
Donald R. Schwartzman, Merrill, $98.80.

Fail to properly maintain exhaust system
Nicholas C. Smith, Merrill, $98.80.

Operate while under the influence
Dylan R. Van Camp, Merrill, $732.90.

Operate motorcycle w/out valid license
Crystal J. Vilter, Merrill, $124.

Jeremy Ratliff
Reporter
In just its third meeting since inception in June, the Fairgrounds Ad-Hoc committee finalized site plans for a new grandstand structure on Wednesday evening.

During discussion, the committee approved a 2,500 seat structure with an alternative option for a 3,500 seat structure, to go out for bid.
Initial discussions at last month’s meeting debated over a roof option, however after research of other similar grandstands around the state, city administrator Dave Johnson advised the committee of a roof serving minimal benefit.
“Unless you are seated directly in the middle, a roof allows very little protection. If it rains, you will get wet and if the sun is out, you will feel it.”
On Wednesday, the committee moved forward with an option to build footings along with the grandstand structure, which would allow for future addition of a roof, if that were to become a preferred option.

Johnson also added estimated cost for a roof would be an additional $300,000.
6th District Alderman Dave Sukow was in agreement.
“From the grandstands I have seen at both fairgrounds and high schools, there was no roof. It’s a luxury we can do without.”
Sukow and Mayor Bill Bialecki had just returned from a trip to Spooner, WI prior to the meeting, in which they evaluated fairgrounds and grandstands both in Spooner and surrounding areas.

Both RFP (Request for Proposal) options will call for a mix of both stadium and bench seating which would be numbered for event purposes.
Stadium seating would consist of individual, molded plastic seats measuring 23” across for accommodation and comfort, and in turn could be sold at a slightly higher cost.
Another benefit to stadium seating as explained by Johnson, is that of attracting a wider variety of entertainment.
“When we are looking to book entertainment, one of the first questions promoters will ask is what sort of venue and seating we have. If we don’t have stadium seating, they will pass us up for the next in line.”
Bench seating would consist benches and backrests, however the exact materials will not be realized until the return of RFP’s. Handicap and companion seating is also planned in the front row of each seating section, as well as wheelchair accessibility.

Johnson and Finance Director Kathy Unertl stated RFP’s for the project would go out next week with a 30 day deadline.
The committee will meet again following receipt and public opening of RFP’s.

Ione Marie Lemmer, age 82, of Merrill, passed away Wednesday, July 29, 2015, at Pine Crest Nursing Home, under the care of her family and nursing home staff.
Ione was born February 18, 1933, in Kendall, Wisconsin, daughter of the late George and Minne Saxby. She was a graduate of Merrill High School. Ione married the love of her life, Marvin Lemmer on June 23, 1951, in Merrill. He preceded her in death on September 14, 2004. Ione was a devout Catholic and a member of St. Francis Xavier Catholic Church. Ione and her late husband, Marvin, owned, built and operated the family dairy farm in the Town of Harding from 1951 until 1995. She was involved with the farm well into her retirement. Ione was proud to provide private home care nursing. She also drove school bus. Ione was most proud of her family and the family farm. She was the rock of the family. Ione was a devout wife, mother and grandmother through the joys and tragedies of life. She made every family holiday and gathering special with her cooking and love.
Survivors include two daughters, Mary (Kenneth) Stewart, of Somerville, AL and Marsha Eckerle, of Merrill; two sons, Mike Lemmer (Cindy Bushar) of Petersburg, TN and Matt Lemmer, of Merrill; eight grandchildren, Jason, Jamie, Jenny, Melissa, David, Samantha, Ashley and Mark; six great-grandchildren, Lauren, Cody, Mariah, Caden, Abby, and Aaron; two sisters, Margy (William) Seegar, of Cottonwood, AZ and Virginia (Fred) Roum of West Allis, Wisconsin; and one brother, Norman (Joyce) Saxby of Merrill. Besides her husband and parents, Ione is preceded in death by one son, Mark Lemmer; one grandson, Jon Manthei; a son in law, Dave Eckerle; and two sisters, Baby Leila Jean Saxby, and Elaine Kleinschmidt.
A private family service was held. Father Chris Kemp presided at the graveside service. Pall bearers were her sons Mike and Matt, her daughters Mary and Marsha, and her grandsons Jason and Shane. The Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill, assisted the family.
Memorials can be directed to the Lincoln County Humane Society in Ione’s name.
The Lemmer family would like to thank Dr. Gregory Gill and Dr. Hamied Rezazadeh, Ione’s life-long friend Dorothy Mussell, and the Pine Crest staff who provided her excellent care.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

HomeServices of America, Inc., a Berkshire Hathaway affiliate, has announced the acquisition of First Weber Realtors®, Wisconsin’s leading residential real estate brokerage firm, and its subsidiary Priority Title Corporation together with ownership interests in eight regional title operations in Wisconsin. Terms were not disclosed.
Headquartered in Madison with additional support staff in Milwaukee, First Weber serves all Wisconsin markets with nearly 1,200 sales associates in 58 offices throughout Madison, Milwaukee, central Wisconsin, the Fox Valley and the Northwoods. In 2014, First Weber closed $2.5 billion in sales and ranked in the top 20 U.S. brokers based on closed units. Through Priority Title Corporation, the company provides title insurance and escrow services to its clients.
Founded in 1971, First Weber is best known for its commitment to providing its agents and clients with the highest level of customer service, expertise, and resources. James Imhoff, president and CEO, is known for his industry expertise and leadership. Imhoff, together with the executive management team of Kevin Donnell, Tamara Maddente and Robert Weber will continue to lead First Weber’s strategic planning and growth initiatives as well as manage the day-to-day operations along with their sales management teams.
HomeServices is the nation’s second-largest, full-service residential real estate brokerage firm and, through its operating companies, is one of the largest brokerage-owned settlement service providers in the U.S. The acquisition further expands HomeServices’ presence in Wisconsin along with another of its companies, Minneapolis-based Edina Realty, which serves western Wisconsin.
With this transaction, HomeServices has nearly 26,000 real estate professionals operating in 26 states. In 2014, HomeServices’ associates closed $67 billion in sales, nearly 200,000 real estate transactions, and approximately $3.5 billion in home mortgage loans.
“First Weber is a strong company with excellent brand recognition and long-term ties to the communities it serves,” said Ron Peltier, chairman and CEO of HomeServices. “This transaction aligns with our vision of acquiring distinguished companies in leading markets that share our core values.”
“We are proud to be part of HomeServices of America,” noted Imhoff. “We are joining an organization known for its strength and stability—one that is consistent with our high standards of service, integrity and community involvement, making this a win–win for our customers and brokers.”
“This is an important transaction for HomeServices and we are looking forward to having Jim, Kevin, Tamara, Robert and their teams join the HomeServices family,” concluded Peltier.

Lincoln County 4-H will be hosting two upcoming 4-H Open Houses. The first will be on Saturday, Aug. 8 at Memorial Park in Tomahawk and the second will be on Saturday, Aug. 22 at Normal Park in Merrill.
Both events will run from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. and provide an opportunity for the public to learn about what 4-H has to offer for youth and their families.

Motorists can expect a single lane closure on northbound US 51 at WIS 86 (Exit 229) in Lincoln County beginning Tuesday, Aug. 4 at 7 a.m.
The US 51 northbound off-ramp to WIS 86 and Lincoln County D will be closed. WIS 86 traffic will be detoured via Lincoln County S (Exit 225).
The closures are necessary for highway crews to complete pavement repairs. All work is scheduled for completion before the end of the day Wednesday, Aug. 5.
Motorists are reminded to drive with caution in work zones, be alert for slower trafficand allow extra time for travel.
The schedule is subject to change based on favorable weather conditions and construction status. For more information regarding traffic impacts and improvement projects in Wisconsin’s north central region:
Follow us on Twitter: @511WI_NoCentral
Visit the region’s 511 website: http://projects.511wi.gov/region/north-central/
Alerts and updates provided via these sites are not intended for use while driving. When driving, your focus should always be on driving.

In true Crazy Daze spirit, the Friends of T. B. Scott Library cordially invite you to our wild and wacky summer book sale, featuring FICTION for everyone. Whether you’re searching for hardcover, paperback or electronic media, you’ll find reading to help you enjoy the last few days of summer.
The Friends’ Crazy Daze book sale will run on Thursday, Aug. 13 from 9:30 a.m.-7 p.m., and again on Friday, Aug. 14 from 9:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.—just before the library closes at 5. Last year’s two-day sale was such a big success, we’re doing it again—and extending the hours so even those working 9-5 can join in on the fun.
New at this summer’s book sale will be wacky one-hour specials; visit early and often to get great deals. Some specials will be posted on web at www.tbscottlibrary.org and the library’s Facebook page (T.B. Scott Free Library), but others will only be announced on the bulletin board at the sale.
Bring your shopping lists and prepare to be helped by our great volunteers, working to keep our inventory sorted by genre and alphabetically by author for your shopping convenience. Weather permitting, we’ll sell paperbacks outdoors, but for sure you’ll want to shop in the library’s air-conditioned Community Room, where a great selection of quality hard covers and large trade paperbacks await.
As always, proceeds from the Friends’ book sales will be used to support library activities and projects. This is a great way to support your local library and prevent books from being forever lost in a landfill. We also encourage you to join our local Friends organization—it’s just one more way to show your support for our fabulous T. B. Scott Free Library.

The Town of Russell Fire Department along with deputies responded on Monday afternoon after a report of a camper trailer fire. At 4 p.m., a Merrill man reported he was traveling west on County Rd. C near State Rd. 17 when he blew a tire on his pull behind camper and he feared a fire had started. When deputies arrived they found smoke coming from the camper but no fire. Town of Russell firefighters also checked the vehicle over and found no active fire.
A 23-year-old Merrill man was arrested Monday evening after a traffic stop in the Town of Scott. At 7:37 p.m., a deputy stopped a vehicle on State Rd. 64 at County Rd. E after a check showed the registration was suspended. A check on the driver showed his driver’s license was revoked and he was violating the rules of his probation by driving. The man was brought to the Lincoln County Jail on the probation violation charge and held.
A 19-year-old Berlin, Wis. man was arrested early Wednesday morning on drug charges after a traffic stop in the Town of Merrill. A deputy stopped the vehicle the man was driving on US Hwy. 51 near County Rd. C just before 3 a.m. After noting some suspicious activity, the deputy requested the K9 unit from the Merrill Police Department to assist. As the deputy was citing the driver the K9 unit, Eros, arrived and indicated the vehicle contained drugs. A search turned up marijuana, drug paraphernalia and alcohol. The man was brought to the Lincoln County Jail where he was booked on charges of possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. He was also cited for speeding and for transporting alcohol as a minor before he was able to post a cash bond and be released.
A 36-year-old Merrill woman suffered minor injuries after a single vehicle crash Wednesday morning in the Town of Merrill. Just before 6 a.m., cell 911 callers reported a vehicle had struck a light pole on County Rd. K just north of County Rd. G. The driver told the deputy that distracted driving led her to crash her vehicle. She refused medical transport for her injuries but was cited for inattentive driving.
A 17-year-old Merrill man was arrested Friday evening after deputies investigated a disturbance that took place Wednesday evening in the Town of Merrill. Just after 4 p.m., a caller reported an incident on Smith Lane where two children were injured. The suspect had fled prior to the arrival of deputies but he was found on Friday evening after a tipster reported the man was at a business on North Center Avenue in the City of Merrill. When a deputy and officers from the Merrill Police Department arrived, they located the suspect and took him into custody. During a search a deputy located marijuana and a pipe used to smoke it. The man was brought to the Lincoln County Jail where he was booked on charges of misdemeanor disorderly conduct, and felony physical abuse to a child along with possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. The marijuana possession charge is a felony charge as the man has a prior conviction for the offense. The man will have a bond hearing on Monday afternoon.
A 31-year-old Tomahawk man was arrested early Friday morning on several charges after deputies responded to a disturbance in the Town of Bradley. Just after midnight a cell 911 caller reported a man had entered a residence on Kahn Road and confronted the victim in the bedroom of her home. The victim initially got the suspect to leave the house but when she went inside and locked the door he kicked the door open, it was then that a physical disturbance took place. The man admitted to deputies he drank several beers and then went to the home to see the woman. He refused field sobriety tests and was taken into custody for a first offense of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. At the jail he was later booked on charges of disorderly conduct, criminal trespass to a dwelling and criminal damage to property. Unable to post bond the man remained in the jail until a bond hearing on Friday afternoon where he was released on a signature bond by a Lincoln County Judge. On Friday evening the man was again taken into custody after the victim notified deputies that he was using a third party to contact her, a violation of both his signature bond and the 72-hour no contact provision of his arrest. The man was again brought to the Lincoln County Jail where he was booked on charges of bail jumping and violating a 72-hour no contact. He will have another bond hearing on Monday afternoon.
A 54-year-old Merrill man was arrested Friday evening on a criminal charge after receiving a complaint of a threat. The victim came to the Sheriff’s Office after receiving a threatening voice mail from the suspect. Deputies spoke to the suspect who admitted leaving the message as a result of an ongoing dispute. The suspect was brought to the Lincoln County Jail where he was booked on a charge of Unlawful Use of a Telephone. He was able to post a cash bond and be released later Friday evening.
A 26-year-old Merrill man was arrested early Friday evening on a warrant through the Wisconsin Department of Corrections. Two deputies were leaving the Sheriff’s Office when they saw the man walking on North Center Avenue at First Street and suspected he had a warrant. A check showed the man was wanted for violating terms of his probation. The man was taken into custody and then brought to the Lincoln County Jail where he remains.
A 51-year-old Gleason man was arrested Saturday afternoon on warrant charges. Deputies have been searching for the man since January after warrants were issued for failing to pay child support and violating terms of his probation. Just after noon on Monday a deputy watched the man come out the back door of his home on Town Hall Road and enter a garage. They later made contact with the suspect in the garage and took him into custody. He was brought to the Lincoln County Jail and held.
A deputy assisted after a vehicle started on fire Saturday evening south of Tomahawk. The deputy was on patrol on US Hwy. 51 when he heard a Trooper from the Wisconsin State Patrol report he was out with a vehicle near Tamarack Lane that had caught fire. When the deputy arrived he was able to use his fire extinguisher to knock down the majority of the flames. Firefighters from the Tomahawk Fire Department were able to extinguish the remaining hot spots.
A 24-year-old Merrill man was taken into custody early Sunday morning after a deputy stopped an impaired driver. The man was stopped for speeding after a deputy observed him traveling at nearly 90 MPH on County Rd. W and stopped him on Alpine Lane. The man completed field sobriety tests and as a result of those tests was taken into custody for a first offense of operating a motor vehicle while intoxicated. The man was also cited for speeding. He was held in the Lincoln County Jail until Sunday afternoon when he was sober enough to be released.
Stormy weather kept the 911 center staff busy through the weekend but no significant damage was reported. The National Weather Service issued two severe thunder storm warnings, both on Sunday morning as different storm fronts came through. Deputies monitored the storms and reported heavy hail falling during the first storm in the one o’clock hour Sunday morning. The severe portion of the storm seemed to lessen as it moved across the southern part of the county.
The number of car deer crashes remains steady with another eight being reported this past week. A bear was also struck on Tuesday night outside of Tomahawk. Just after 9 p.m., a Lake Tomahawk woman struck the bear on US Hwy. 51 south of County Rd. D. The animal had to be put down.

John H. Schult, age 72 of Merrill, passed away unexpectedly at his home on Thursday, July 30, 2015.
John was born April 27, 1943 in Merrill, son of the late Fred and Ella Schult. He married Paulette Paque on October 26, 1963, in Merrill. John had been employed at Ward Paper Company, American Tissue and Marathon Cheese Corporation. He enjoyed camping, playing cards, dancing, snowmobiling and riding his moped. He was a hard worker and a handy man who could fix anything. John was a dedicated family man who also enjoyed spending quality time with his close friends. He was also a lifelong member of Trinity Lutheran Church.
Survivors include his wife Paulette Schult, Merrill; daughter, Lisa (Dave) Mussell, Merrill; son, Steve (Toni) Schult, Greenville; granddaughter, Ashley Mussell, Merrill; sisters, Phyllis (Duane) Byrd, Rib Lake, and Ruth (Donnie) Kleinschmidt, Merrill; brothers, Willie (Karen) Schult and Jim (Diane) Schult, both of Merrill; and sister-in-law, Ruth “Rudy” Schult, Merrill. Besides his parents, John is preceded in death by a brother, LaVern Schult.
Visitation will be from 4:00 P.M. until 8:00 P.M. Monday, August 3rd at the Taylor-Stine Funeral Home, Merrill. Visitation continues at 9:00 A.M. Tuesday at Trinity Lutheran Church, Merrill, with the funeral following at 10:30 A.M. The Rev. R. Brian Stolarczyk will officiate. Burial will follow in Merrill Memorial Park Cemetery.
Online condolences may be made at www.taylorstinefuneralhome.com.

Arthur Levernier, age 87, of Merrill, formerly of Illinois, passed away peacefully at his home Sunday, August 2, 2015, surrounded by his family and under the care of Aspirus Comfort Care & Hospice Services. He was born August 24, 1927, in Northbrook, IL to the late Arthur Peter and Louise (Beinlich) Levernier. On September 4, 1948, Arthur and Florence Ferraro were united in marriage in Hubbard Woods, IL. She preceded him in death April 21, 2014.
Arthur graduated from St. George High School in Chicago. He was drafted into the US Army in 1945 and was stationed in Panama. Arthur worked for many years as a firefighter in Glenco, IL, and remained a member of the Professional Firefighters Association ever since. He had also worked as a landscaper in Highland Park, IL, before his retirement. Arthur was an avid musky fisherman and grouse hunter and was very passionate about gardening, both flowers and vegetables. One of his favorite places to spend time was his beloved home in Moose Lake, WI. Arthur was a true dog lover and happily supported the Lincoln County Humane Society. He adored his grandchildren and great-grandchildren and rejoiced in the birth of his newest great-grandson, Connor.
Arthur is survived by his daughter: Dorothy Malm, Merrill; son: Dr. James ‘Jim” Levernier, Little Rock, AK; three grandchildren: Andrew (Angie) Malm, Raleigh, NC, Adam (Melanie) Malm, Oshkosh, WI, and Kathryn Malm, Los Angeles, CA; three great-grandchildren: Taylor Malm, Madison Malm and Connor Malm; niece: Kathy Golden, Charlotte, NC; sister-in-law: Norma Rogan. Bristol, RD; nephew: Bob (Sue) Rogan, Bristol, RD, and their daughters, Samantha and Stephanie; and many friends through his wives’ golfing and bowling leagues. He was preceded in death by his parents, wife, Florence, grandson, Christopher Malm and his beloved dog, Barney. He was also preceded in death by his brother, Leroy Levernier, and his sister, Ruth Skidmore.
Per Arthur’s request there will be no services. His ashes will be buried in Northbrook Cemetery in Glenview, IL, at a later date. Memorials may be given in Arthur’s name to the Lincoln County Humane Society. Waid Funeral Home of Merrill is assisting the family with arrangements. Online condolences may be made at www.waidfuneral.com .