NEWS
MAPS budget calls for 8.54% tax levy hike
By Jeff Hovind
Merrill Courier
The final numbers may not all be in yet, but with the State of Wisconsin finishing its budget before July 1, the Merrill Area Public School Board was able to prepare its “conservative” 2009-10 spending plan for presentation to district voters at the annual meeting July 27.

BACK TO THE FUTURE
WIAA runs a reverse; sends MHS back to the Valley
By Jeff Hovind
Merrill Courier
Well, it was good while it lasted. Merrill High School’s one-year stint in the Great Northern Conference is over, and the Bluejays are headed back to the Wisconsin Valley Conference after all.

State sees continued decline in abortions
The number of abortions performed in Wisconsin dropped slightly last year to its lowest level since the state began keeping records three decades ago..

Convicted sex offender to be released
In accordance with Wisconsin State Statute 301.46(2m), the Merrill Police Department has determined that the following information on Jesse Brackett should be released to the local media:

OPINIONS/EDITORIAL
State budget like making sausage, only not as tasty
By Jeff Hovind
When all was said and done on the state budget, much more was said but much was done.

Vets’ trip to ballgame comes the hard way, down south
By Jeff Hovind
I don’t want to fuel a border war between the states, but you have to admit, there are some discernable charter traits that separate Cheeseheads and Illinois Flatlanders. Last week, we discussed driving skills, for example.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR
• Girl Scout Camps
• Relay for Life
• Protect the Earth

SPORTS
• Racing action heats up at Tomahawk Speedway
• Dairyland Baseball
• Merrill Church Standings
• Miner League - Golf Results
• Fast Pitch Softball League celebrates 60th
• Kirker Earns CCA Certification
• Retired Educator's Offer Scholarship