Researched by Michael J. Caylor Jr.
2-6-80
Once again residents have been made aware that the road to the White House goes right through Merrill as former Texas Governor John B. Connally has announced he will attend the Mid-Winter State Convention of the VFW being held at Les & Jim’s on February 16th. The Democrat turned Republican is trying to gain the nomination of his party to face off against President Jimmy Carter this November. Connally served as Governor of the State of Texas from 1961 to 1969 and as Secretary of the United States Treasury under President Richard M. Nixon. Connally will arrive at Central Wisconsin Airport and then travel directly to Lincoln Lanes where he will meet with reporters before speaking to those here for the convention. (He was best known for a car ride he took in downtown Dallas in 1963)
Sister Mary Charles has announced that the restrictive visiting policy is now in effect at Holy Cross Hospital. The hospital is reported to be quite full with flu cases and as a result only immediate family members are allowed to visit in an attempt to try and slow the spread.
In briefs: Pat’s Pizza is officially opened at 606 W Main St. Pat and Bob Drury are pictured cutting the ribbon to their business with Mayor Ralph Voigt and Wayne Smith, President of the Chamber. The Drury children, Kelly, Jill, Ann, Sarah and Todd are also pictured. The staff makes freshly made un-baked pizzas as well as submarine sandwiches. Harvey Woodward, Chief Deputy of Lincoln County has been elected president of the Wisconsin Sheriff and Deputy Sheriff’s Association. Woodward began his career with the former Marathon County Traffic Patrol and then became a sergeant when that agency merged with the Marathon County Sheriff’s Office. He came to Lincoln County to become its first chief deputy in 1969. Several ads in this week’s paper feature Tony Canez, candidate for the 8th ward of the Merrill Common Council. The political newcomer is an in law to Jim and Angie Busterud, owners of South of the Border restaurant, and manages the Frank Bolea Motors body shop. His candidacy will cause a primary with Anita Gebert and Walter Proft also running in that district. Henry Golde has announced he will be a write-in for the 8th district of the Lincoln County Board. Jean Rogers held that post but did not file for reelection. Golde is the only declared candidate. Four people phoned the Sheriff’s Office this past Sunday to report UFO’s. Reports were received from Gleason to Pine River of something in the sky with changing colored lights which flashed.
2-7-90
Another promotion from the Merrill Chamber has finished up and the Steve Storm family is heading to Disney World. Sally Storm is shown with Foto News sales rep Kevin O’Day accepting the prize. Her name and 65 others were drawn by Mayor Ken Sparr and City Clerk Judy Stockowitz wrapping up the month long sales event. Jennifer Joy’s name was drawn for the Las Vegas get away.
It was a close battle but in the end the Merrill Blue Jay wrestling team was edged out by Wisconsin Rapids at the conference tournament. Mitch Runge (160), Pete Deates (189) and Chad Meyer were the three champs for the local squad. Merrill will host the Regional tournament this weekend.
2-9-2000
Valentine’s Day is Monday, but local merchants are hoping you celebrate all weekend. Diamond Dave’s has a special of a prime rib dinner for $13.95, Club 64 will run a buffet on Sunday featuring beef tips, ham, chicken and lasagna all for $7.50 with Bloody Mary’s only $2. Out at the Arena you can get a T-bone steak and shrimp dinner for $21, Hugo’s Pizza has a to go special with a large pizza for just $7.95, Club Modern has sirloin for two which includes shrimp or a small lobster and a bottle of champagne for just $30.95, and 3’s Company is featuring the same specials Friday through Monday with prime rib, shrimp and lobster. Gail’s Place has a ham or chicken dinner and a dance with the music of Finn Power Monday evening, the cost is just $8.95 per person. Laurie Lee’s Blues Bar will feature the music of Tuck Pence Friday and Older “Budwiser” on Saturday, no cover. In an ad on the entertainment page, Eddie’s Bake Shop tells you to ignore the rumors as they have not sold and they have great specials for Valentines.
The Merrill Blue Jay girls’ basketball team continues their winning ways by defeating Wausau East 57-29 this past Tuesday giving them a 16-0 record on the season. Michelle Kaminski finished the game with 19 points, going 3-4 on three pointers. Coach Bob Yuska is so impressed with the Kaminski, who is a Junior, that he jokingly speaks of getting her signed on a long term contract. Merrill will host Marshfield Friday.