Fotos from the Past

10-11-72

Despite a 7-2 vote approving its purchase, several citizens presenting their opposing viewpoints spoke as the Merrill City Council voted to purchase 40 acres of land for a new landfill. The landfill is contingent on DNR approval, but those opposed are frightened of the prospect of having a dump right next to the Prairie River. Lance Neinow speaking on behalf of the Lincoln County Sports Club, Dr. Erling Ravn and Miss Carol Green presented their concerns with Ms. Green providing the council with over 400 signatures opposing the site. City Engineer Charles Pierotti explained the alternate location was turned down because of the poor soil conditions.

Mrs. Margaret Stark is the recipient of the "Woman of the Year" award. Stark received the honor from the Merrill Business and Professional Women's Club for her "outstanding efforts in her chosen career and community achievements." Glorian Reinke presented the award to Stark who is the administrator of Pine Crest Nursing Home; she is one of four women nursing home administrators in the state.

Two former Merrill residents were honored at the Wisconsin Army National Guard retirement ceremonies held at Milwaukee recently. LTC Richard C. Hanson is retiring after 29 years of service, he served tours of duty in World War II and the Berlin Crisis. MAJ Harry Schweigert served 24 years including WW II and the Berlin Crisis. Both men served as company commanders of the Merrill unit during the 1950's and 1960's.

"Is there any justice" is one headline above photoss in this week's sports section after D. C. Everest put an end to the Merrill Blue Jay's undefeated season by knocking off the Jays 14-13. Coach Ira Rebella was fretting about his decision to go for a two point conversion after Steve Dahm scored on a quarterback sneak, an attempt that failed. A questionable penalty also devastated the team after an 83 yard punt return for a touchdown by Phil English was called back on a clipping penalty. The Blue Jays do not have much time to recover from the loss as undefeated Antigo comes to Merrill Saturday.

10-13-82

The City of Merrill should appoint rather than elect its City Clerk, Treasurer, and Street Commissioner says a group appointed to study Merrill's elected positions. The opinion was delivered by the chairman of the committee Michael Ravn at Tuesday night's city council meeting. The committee was formed by the mayor and city council last summer after the death of longtime City Clerk Robert Klug. The committee has not hammered out their final conclusions and noted a change would require city council approval as it effects a charter ordinance. Alderman Richard Hayes suggested the committee also study changing the mayor's job from part to full time.

Two Merrill Police Officers were injured after being rammed by a driver they were chasing. Officer Daniel Caylor pulled behind the stopped pickup truck after it lost control and drove onto the lawn at 902 Cedar St. The driver put the truck in reverse striking the front of the squad car before trying to drive away. The driver was stopped and arrested at the scene. Both Caylor and Officer Jay Proft, his passenger, refused treatment for injuries they suffered in the incident.

Bargains fill this week's paper: An ad for Century 21 offers 40 acres of land with a hunting cabin in the greater Newwood area for just $21,000. A requirement for the purchase is $3,000 down at the time of purchase. Woller Sales Agency - Montgomery Ward has a 1.5 cubic foot microwave oven for $298, a component stereo system which has AM-FM, turntable, cassette player and an 8 track all for only $139. And - Marie is retiring! Head down to Gene's Shoe Store during the special clearance sale with 30% off most in stock shoes.

10-7-92

After 42 years of music Jerry Goetsch and His Orchestra is calling it quits. The group has made six recordings, travelled around the world, and has had its own Sunday morning TV show. WSAW-TV Channel 7 will be taping their last performance entitled "Thanks for the Memories" Oct. 11 at Les & Jim's Lincoln Lanes in Merrill.

Two longtime postal workers will be retiring out of the Merrill Post Office. Roger Detert and Van Vanderkam are fellow graduates of Wausau East High School class of 1956, Vanderkam started as a letter carrier in Wausau and transferred to Merrill 15 years ago as the superintendent of the Merrill operation. Detert has been working for the postal system for 24 years with the majority of his time spent delivering mail on the west side of Merrill.

Despite recovering two fumbles and turning them into touchdowns, the Merrill Blue Jays' attempt at spoiling Wausau West's homecoming was stifled after a late turnover and two point conversion made the difference in the 15-14 game. The Jays host Antigo for homecoming this Saturday in what Coach Greg Schofield predicts will be a "smash mouth" football game.