The views and opinions expressed are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Merrill Foto News, its publishers, Editor, or staff.
To the Editor:
Regarding the future of the former American Legion Building
I would like to urge the Merrill City Council not only to make it possible for Jonathon Malm to acquire the former American Legion building, but also to support him in his endeavor to turn it into an Art Center which could become a very attractive asset for the whole community and beyond.
I disagree with City Alderman Steve Hass that the City needs to be run as a business. The Aldermen’s responsibility and duty is to look out for the Common Good of the citizens. We need to preserve historic buildings, we need ART. These are not just frivolous things for only rich people. The Riverside Walk and famous library, the Historical Society, the old City Hall and Courthouse, and our wonderful parks are all examples of what makes our city special. They “belong” to everyone, nourish us, and make us into the unique community we want to be part of.
I commend Mr. Malm for stepping up as a private citizen and wanting to contribute to the well-being of our town.
Please, dear Aldermen of Merrill, vote in his and the Historical Society’s favor and also in favor of our good community.
– Susanna Juon-Gilk
Merrill, Wis.
To the Editor
Backpacks!
He hugged his backpack, looked at us with a smile and said, “Now I’m ready to start school!” The little boy had just picked up his backpack and supplies and could hardly contain his excitement! We invite you to help put that same smile on another young person’s face this year.
Merrill Forward Together Healthy Community Initiative, the Optimists, and Children’s Wisconsin are coordinating a community-wide collection of backpacks and supplies for children who qualify for free or reduced lunch in grades K-6.
You can help! (1) Purchase supplies; drop off by Thursday, August 12, at Incredible Bank, Rich’s Discount, Walgreens, or Walmart; (2) Donate to MFTHCI – Backpacks, PO Box 793, Merrill; or (3) Call Linda Becker at 715-873-4564 to volunteer.
Supplies needed: Backpacks, 1” and 1.5” binders, colored pencils, crayons, disinfectant wipes, chisel tip dry erase markers, paper folders, glue sticks, hand sanitizer, kleenex, washable markers, pencils, plastic supply pencil boxes, 3” x 3” post it notes, scissors, black sharpie markers, and quart or gallon Ziploc bags.
Families served by the Backpack Project often have a hard time making ends meet. With your help, we can provide them with basic supplies needed. Thank You!
– Linda Becker and Debi McGregor
Backpack Project Coordinators
To the Editor:
The Fill the Gazebo Committee would like to give a huge shoutout to Culvers of Merrill. As they’ve done for other community groups, the managers offered to dedicate a day to our cause. On that day, July 29, 10% of all restaurant profits were donated to the Fill the Gazebo Food Drive. In addition, a Bake Sale was held, with 10% of those proceeds going to the Gazebo Drive, as well.
Our committee members observed a friendly, bustling crew during the four hours we helped. Business was hopping, and all staff members exhibited a purposeful politeness that was impressive. Thank you, Culvers, for managing a business which strongly supports the Merrill community, as well as providing a pleasant dining experience to customers. We’re indeed lucky to have you in our town.
– Marie Rein
Fill the Gazebo Planning Committee
Merrill, Wisconsin
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