Mayor proclaims Buddy Poppy Week

Mayor Steve Hass has proclaimed May 17-26, 2025, as the City of Merrill’s annual Buddy Poppy Campaign Week, supporting efforts by local VFW Post 1638 and its Auxiliary to raise funds for veterans in need.
Members of the Schmitt-Manecke-Donner Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 1638 and Auxiliary will distribute the iconic red poppies at locations throughout Merrill during the designated week. This year’s campaign is co-chaired by VFW Post 1638 Auxiliary President Denni Radloff, VFW Post 1638 member Kathy Palazzo, and Auxiliary member Jill Schmunk.
According to VFW guidelines, all proceeds from Buddy Poppy sales must benefit disabled veterans, veterans with unmet needs and their families, and the families and orphans of deceased veterans.
Community members can purchase Buddy Poppies at Dave’s County Market and the First Street Coffee Station/Park City Credit Union parking lot during the campaign week. Poppies will also be available at the Northwoods Veterans Post at 601 Johnson St. during regular business hours.
The red poppy has served as a symbol of remembrance for fallen service members who gave the ultimate sacrifice since World War I, inspired by the poem “In Flanders Fields” by Lt. Col. John McCrae.
For more information about the Buddy Poppy Campaign, contact co-chair Jill Schmunk at 715.536.9640 or jillschmunk@gmail.com.