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EDITORIAL

Losing 1 of the good guys
By Jeff Hovind
The are a number of legislators on both sides of the aisle that we would like to see “retire.” Rep. Don Friske certainly is not among them. But to paraphrase Billy Joel, “only the good move on.” Or so it seems.
Friske announced last Friday he will not seek re-election this year.
In 10 years in the Assembly, the Merrill Republican has proven to be an effective, practical, productive lawmaker in an environment where that’s no easy task. Whether in the majority or minority, Friske had a knack for building consensus on all kinds of nuts-and-bolts issues that improve the quality of life and the economy in Wisconsin and the 35th district. As the Legislature descended into the partisan cockfight pit, Friske remained above the fray, doing the job we elected him to do.
The rest of the state should be so lucky.
There is a capable list of candidates lining up to replace Friske in November. Here’s hoping the eventual winner will carry on the legacy of this fine citizen-legislator.

LETTERS TO THE EDITOR

NO LETTERS THIS WEEK

NEIGHBOR TO NEIGHBOR- MERRILL
Do you have a need? Do you know someone in need? Maybe we can help! Call 539-0653
Neighbor to Neighbor needs for week of 3-8-10:
A single mom who is starting over needs dressers. M914
A single mom needs a twin mattress. M915 & M916
A family who is moving to a different apartment needs bunk beds. M912
A family who cannot afford it needs bunk beds. M907
A man who cannot afford it, needs an electric stove. M910
A large family needs 2 dressers and clothes: girl’s pants in size 18 and shirts in size large, socks and shoes in size 8 ½. M887
Neighbor to Neighbor is a group of Christians making the needs of our neighbors known to the community and then coordinating the need of one with the gift of another. It is a ministry of the Church of the Ascension Episcopal Church, Merrill. Visit us at www.merrillepiscopal.com.
Monetary gifts are accepted and appreciated.

The Merrill Area Concert Association announces their 2010-2011 concert line up.
This year’s roster includes 5 performances with lots of variety for every musical palate. Here is a short introduction to the upcoming programs:
The Marlins return to Merrill September 2010, and the four brothers will bring back a full spectrum of music, including country, rock, big band, pop, and more. Then, in November, Dance ‘n America gives us a taste of live dancing. “Dancing with the Stars” style competition spins this hot performance with the audience acting as judge. The James Sewell Ballet puts it on in stellar fashion. The new year brings Intersection in January. This Classical trio of violin, cello, and piano goes beyond the usual with layers of European folk music and modern American works. Come April of 2011 MACA brings in Abbey Road Band for The Beatles lovers in the community and an encore performance by Romanza who thrilled us with their wonderful tenor voices will again sing romantic ballads, charming us with a new show Tenorissimo.
The concert association operates on a reciprocal agreement with Minoqua, Antigo, and Medford area concert associations where by members of one get in free at the other area concerts. Usually an additional 12 concerts! Also, any new membership purchased by April 9 may attend a bonus concert of Home Free on April 13.
MACA operates on a membership basis to provide great concerts at reasonable cost to the community. Season Membership’s Adults $37.00, Students $15.00, Family $90.00. Admission to performances is by membership card only. For more information on how to purchase a season membership or to get a brochure contact Meagan (715-252-6295) or write to MACA@ntmtr.com