Marshfield, WI -- In a heartfelt and emotional episode of Heroes from Home, a program produced by the Marshfield Now! Channel, local veteran Ken Bores sat down to reflect on his service in the United States Marine Corps during the Vietnam War.

​His story, filled with courage, loss, and unwavering commitment, offered viewers a raw glimpse into the realities of combat and the enduring impact of military service.

Bores, who joined the Marines in May 1966, recounted his rapid transition from basic training and tank school to deployment in Vietnam by the end of that same year. His firsthand accounts of life on the battlefield were harrowing. On February 28, 1967, he participated in a brutal battle that resulted in the loss of several comrades, including a close friend from tank school. “That was a rude awakening,” Bores said. “We had nine tankers either killed or wounded and lost about half our infantry.”

In another deadly encounter at Camp Carroll, Bores suffered significant injuries to his hand but remained on duty, continuing to operate weaponry until he was medevaced. He recounted the painful process of receiving care, including a series of makeshift medical stops before eventually reaching a doctor who treated his wounds properly. “I hadn't even had an aspirin yet,” he recalled.

Bores’ stories went beyond the battlefield. He shared moments of dark humor and the survivalist mindset necessary for enduring war, including anecdotes about the notorious C-rations and life in trenches under constant bombardment. He also described the heavy toll war took on mental health. “Hardly a day goes by that I don’t think about Vietnam,” he said. With the support of the VA, he sought help for nightmares and trauma—a decision he encourages other veterans to consider.

Reflecting on his return home in 1967, Bores noted he was fortunate not to encounter the hostility many Vietnam veterans faced. “If somebody would have spit at me at the airport, they’d have got it,” he said, acknowledging the mixed public reception returning soldiers received during that era.

Now married to his second wife Jean and embraced by her family,Bores remains active in the local veteran community. He recommended military service—or at least basic training—for young people as a way to instill discipline and respect.
Bores also brought with him several books that feature his experiences, including Con Thien: Hill of Angels by James Lee Cohen and Marine Tank Battles in Vietnam. His photo and quotes appear in these books, capturing moments of both heroism and humanity during one of America’s most controversial conflicts.

As the interview closed, Bores expressed gratitude for the chance to tell his story. “People have to know what vets have gone through,” Tom said. “We’re veterans every day—not just on Memorial Day.”

The full episode of Heroes from Home featuring Ken Bores can be viewed on the Marshfield Now! Channel.

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Kaitlyn Konrardy
Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield
[email protected]

Marshfield, WI – With just $50,000 left to raise, the Boys & Girls Club is calling on the Marshfield community to help close the final gap in the $1 million Operational Campaign for the Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield. Every donation, no matter the size, directly supports a safe, engaging place for local youth to go after school and during the summer. A place where they can learn, grow, and thrive. This is more than a campaign, it’s an investment in the future of Marshfield’s youth.

The campaign has already achieved 95% of its goal, a major milestone that has made it possible to launch operations in Marshfield and sustain them through the Club’s first two years. But the path to long-term impact is just beginning.

Thanks to the incredible generosity of local residents and businesses, the campaign has gained strong momentum and community-wide support. Several individuals and organizations have stepped up to join our Great Futures Founders group, including Felker Brothers Corporation, Jon & Annette Vandehey, Marshfield Area United Way, Marshfield Community Foundation, Nasonville Dairy, and many more amazing partners.

The $1 million goal was designed to cover key start-up expenses, including staff recruitment and training, essential programming supplies, and the launch of a school-based site this summer. But the Club’s vision extends far beyond just meeting this goal.

“We’re so close to the finish line, and this final stretch is where every community member can make a lasting difference,” said Danielle Belsky, CEO of the Boys & Girls Club. “This isn’t just about keeping the doors open. It’s about building something strong and sustainable for Marshfield’s youth for years to come.”

For more information or to contribute to the Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield, please visit https://tinyurl.com/yuf77t85 or contact Kaitlyn Konrardy, Director of Community Outreach, at [email protected].

by Marshfield Now! Staff
Marshfield, WI — The Chestnut Center for the Arts is bustling with activity this summer, offering a wide range of events for all ages—from hands-on family fun to live performances and gallery experiences.
During Marshfield’s Hub City Days, the Center will host an open house featuring a variety of free, family-friendly activities. Highlights include a chainsaw carving demonstration, pottery on the wheel, and rock painting for children and families. “Kids can paint their rocks and take them with them, or leave them around town as part of a traveling rock project,” shared Edie, the center's program coordinator.
Visitors can also stop by the Center’s vendor booth downtown, where staff will share information about upcoming classes, events, and a basket raffle fundraiser.
Looking ahead to August, the Chestnut Center is set to host a special cultural celebration on Sunday, August 10. The day begins with a free classical concert at 2 p.m. featuring the chamber trio South Beach Up North. Following the concert, guests can enjoy an authentic Irish dinner at 5 p.m., catered by traveling chef Rob Arndt of Vila’s Farm to Table. The menu includes corned beef and cabbage, Irish poutine, brown bread, and bread pudding, with Guinness and wine available at a cash bar.
The evening concludes with a live performance by Gadan, a traditional Irish band visiting from Ireland. Tickets for the dinner and concert can be purchased in advance for $45 or $50 at the door. Dinner-only and concert-only options are also available.
“We really encourage people to reserve in advance so Rob knows how much food to prepare,” Edie noted.
In September, theater lovers can mark their calendars for Saturday, September 6, when a traveling Shakespeare troupe will present The Comedy of Errors in a fresh, modernized format. “Shakespeare doesn’t come to Marshfield very often,” said Edie. “This is a unique opportunity to experience it up close.” Advance tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for students, and $25 at the door.
The Center will also have a presence at the Marshfield Fair in August, offering interactive experiences for children at their booth in the Merchant Building.
Meanwhile, the Chestnut Center has debuted a new gift shop, Art Treasures at Chestnut, featuring work from 17 local artists including jewelry, pottery, and fine art. The shop is open during office hours (Tuesday through Thursday), and special arrangements can be made for weekend visitors.
Edie also put out a call for volunteers: “Whether it’s helping in the gift shop, bringing cookies for events, or assisting with kids’ activities—whatever your interests are, we welcome your help.”
With so many events on the horizon, the Chestnut Center for the Arts continues to be a vibrant hub of creativity and community in Marshfield.
For more information or to reserve tickets, visit www.chestnutarts.org or stop by the Center during open hours.

​The City of Marshfield will conduct scheduled maintenance on its VoIP phone system on Tuesday, July 29, 2025, resulting in temporary phone service downtime between 8:00 a.m. and 10:00 a.m. for all City buildings that use this system.
Facilities affected by this outage include, but are not limited to:

• City Hall
• Police and Fire Departments
• Street Division
• Marshfield Public Library
• Second Street Community Center (Parks & Recreation Department)
• Wastewater Treatment Plant
• Parks & Recreation Maintenance
• Cemetery Office

Emergency services will remain operational. This outage will not impact 911 service. Citizens can continue to reach emergency responders as usual.
The City’s IT Department will make every effort to complete the maintenance promptly and reduce the duration of downtime wherever possible.
For non-emergency matters during the outage, please consider using email or visiting the department's website for service information.

By Marshfield Now! Staff

The Marshfield Common Council held a full agenda on July 22, 2025, ranging from passionate public comment to key infrastructure decisions and long-term planning updates.

Citizen Addresses Monarch Decline
During the public comment period, Melissa Gwiazda of North Apple Avenue gave a powerful and emotional presentation on the declining monarch butterfly population. Speaking on behalf of the Marshfield Monarch page and invited by Council Member Brian Giles, Gwazda cited habitat destruction, pesticide use, and suburban development as major contributors to the species’ collapse.
Gwazda specifically highlighted how local areas like Trout Road and 21st Street, once prime locations for monarch egg collection, have been lost due to herbicide spraying and development. She estimated a loss of up to 82,500 monarch eggs from just one stretch of road. “Let’s find a way to help the problem,” she urged.

Council Business: Approvals and Updates
After the public comments, the Council approved minutes from its July 8, 9, and 17 meetings, followed by regular updates.

Mayor Lois TeStrake congratulated Deputy Clerk Ashley Drager on completing her third year at the Clerk Institute. She also reminded council members to communicate with staff regarding the CIP (Capital Improvement Plan) budgets to streamline meetings. A touch of humor was added as she praised the newly improved train tracks on Central Avenue.

Council Member Tompkins acknowledged the Plan Commission for their zoning work to improve housing accessibility.

City Administrator Steve Barg provided updates on two major grant applications submitted to Wood County and noted a forthcoming review of the city’s economic development organizational structure, to be discussed on August 12. Barg also reminded the council about the next CIP special meeting on July 31.

Ordinance to Replace Lead Water Lines Approved
A major milestone was reached as the council passed the second reading of Ordinance 1533, requiring the replacement of lead and galvanized water service lines. Presented by Marshfield Utilities General Manager Nicholas Kumm, the ordinance lays out a clear framework for compliance, enforcement, and a fine structure that prioritizes public safety over punishment. The utility commission and staff strongly supported the measure.

Infrastructure Budget Adjustments and TIF District Amendments
The Council approved a resolution to adjust the TID 12 fund budget to cover a shortfall for the Yellowstone Drive water main extension project. An additional $120,000 will be moved to support the construction, funded partially through economic development reserves and Marshfield Utilities.

Senior Planner Josh Miller of Cedar Corporation presented an amendment to TID District #11 to accommodate a major campus expansion by I-State Truck Center. The amendment adds approximately 10 acres and updates project plans to include infrastructure development, a traffic impact analysis, and expanded road access. The project is expected to generate $21 million in new value over time.

Fairgrounds Commission Funding Restored
A request was approved to release $25,000 from the 2025 budget to the Fairgrounds Commission for city-owned building repairs. Council Member Jen Delis clarified that although the city had budgeted funds in 2024, they went unused and reverted to the general fund. The motion included a one-time rule suspension to allow funds to be used on buildings, not just land, as previously required.

Strategic Plan Progress Report
City Administrator Barg delivered a detailed review of the city’s 2022–2024 Strategic Plan, highlighting both accomplishments and challenges. Notable achievements included:

• Completion of the citywide property revaluation.
• Improved public engagement through expanded communications and outreach.
• Strong financial strides, including an improved bond rating and increased reserve fund.
• Completion of key park projects and tree management efforts.
• Launch of the Daniel’s Addition housing project and development of TIF 12 as a certified industrial site.

The report recognized staffing challenges but praised city staff for making significant progress despite turnover and post-COVID disruptions.
​
Looking Ahead
Council Member Koran requested that the Jeff Hill subdivision update be added to the next agenda. The council then moved into closed session to discuss negotiations related to the Weinbrenner redevelopment and the Visit Marshfield agreement.​

MARSHFIELD — One of the city’s most anticipated summer traditions is back. Hub City Days returns to downtown Marshfield from July 24 through 26, bringing three full days of activities, entertainment, and community spirit.
Organized by Main Street Marshfield and a dedicated team of volunteers, Hub City Days has grown over the past 21 years into a regional attraction, drawing visitors from across Wisconsin and beyond.

The celebration kicks off Thursday, July 24, with Business After 5 hosted by the Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce & Industry, followed by a free family movie night at Wenzel Plaza. “We’ve improved the sound and viewing experience this year,” said Paul, a member of the promotions committee. “It’s a beautiful place to watch a movie. Bring a lawn chair or blanket and enjoy the evening.”

Friday night features a packed lineup, starting with the Bike Cruise, a Toy Car Hunt, and extended hours for downtown businesses during Shop the Block. Music lovers won’t want to miss the final installment of the Hub City Concert Series, headlined by Steven Page, former lead singer of the Barenaked Ladies, performing from 7 to 10 p.m. at Wenzel Plaza.

Saturday, July 26, brings the main event — a massive car show expected to fill 10 blocks of downtown with over 600 classic and custom vehicles. “We’ve heard from people coming in from all over — even as far as the Dakotas,” said Ben, also a committee member. “It’s one of the top car shows in the region.”

Families can enjoy a Family Zone in Veterans Park from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., featuring a dunk tank, kids’ activities, live demonstrations, and booths from local organizations. The craft show will be held in the Soo Line parking lot, showcasing over 20 vendors offering everything from handmade gifts to maple syrup.

Also on Saturday is the Hub City Brew Fest at Wenzel Plaza from 12 to 3 p.m., featuring craft beer tastings from more than a dozen local breweries and live music throughout the day. Attendees will receive a commemorative cup and T-shirt with ticket purchase.

Other events include a Horsepower Show at Upham Mansion and a BBQ Cook-Off at the Elks Club, offering a little something for every interest.

Organizers encourage residents and visitors alike to not only attend the weekend’s festivities but to also support downtown Marshfield businesses year-round. “Hub City Days is all about showcasing the heart of our city,” said Ben. “We want people to explore, shop, and enjoy everything our downtown has to offer.”
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For full event details, visit Main Street Marshfield’s Facebook page or website.

Marshfield, WI — At the July 17 “Senior Talk” session, community members gathered to hear from Michelle Meidl, a nurse practitioner with Family Health Center, as she shared vital information on hypertension—often called the “silent killer”—and the wide array of services offered by the center.
​
Family Health Center, which has served the Marshfield area for over 50 years, partners with the Marshfield Clinic to offer dental, AODA (Alcohol and Other Drug Abuse), and now primary care services. Meidl highlighted that Family Health Center accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and private insurance, and also offers a sliding scale for uninsured patients. The primary care clinic is located on the sixth floor of the Patriot Tower, formerly City Hall, with AODA services on the seventh and dental care on the hill near the Marshfield Clinic.

Meidl’s presentation focused heavily on hypertension. She explained the causes, risks, and importance of regular monitoring. “Hypertension is often symptomless,” she said, “and long-term high blood pressure can lead to kidney damage, heart failure, and other serious conditions.”

She walked attendees through proper blood pressure measurement techniques and emphasized the importance of regular annual physicals. “We often hear patients say, ‘I feel fine,’ and avoid doctor visits. But hypertension doesn’t always make you feel sick—until it causes real damage.”

Lifestyle factors like stress, poor diet, alcohol consumption, and lack of exercise are leading contributors to high blood pressure. Meidl encouraged attendees to reduce sodium intake, quit smoking, and increase physical activity. She also acknowledged genetic predispositions and aging as risk factors that must be managed with vigilance.

A key takeaway was the importance of knowing your numbers. Meidl said, “The only way to truly know if you have high blood pressure is to get it checked. Don't wait for symptoms.” She advised seniors to bring up concerns about blood pressure, cholesterol, and bone density—especially in men over 50—with their primary care providers.

The session concluded with a Q&A and optional blood pressure checks. For future Senior Talk topics, Meidl encouraged participants to share their interests with Marshfield Parks & Recreation.

This health education event is part of the “Senior Talk” series, produced in collaboration with Marshfield Parks & Recreation and featured on Marshfield Broadcasting - Producers Channel 989.

MARSHFIELD, Wis. — The Marshfield Common Council will meet Tuesday evening at 6:00 p.m. at City Hall to address a range of topics including infrastructure improvements, financial contributions, and development planning.
One of the major items on the agenda is the second reading of Ordinance No. 1533, which would require property owners to replace lead and galvanized water service lines within the city. The ordinance, presented by Marshfield Utilities General Manager Nicolas Kumm, aims to modernize the city’s water infrastructure and protect public health.

The Council will also consider Resolution No. 2025-24, which proposes amendments to the project plan and boundaries for Tax Incremental District (TID) #11. Josh Miller of Cedar Corporation is scheduled to present the changes, which are designed to support targeted redevelopment and economic growth.

Councilmembers Delis and Spiros are requesting approval for a $50,000 city contribution to the Fairgrounds Commission, representing $25,000 annually for facility improvements in both the 2024 and 2025 budget years.

Other agenda items include an update on the city's 2022–2024 Strategic Plan, a debrief from the recent July 9 special Council meeting, and approval of bids and agreements through the consent agenda—such as a contract for the Yellowstone Drive water main extension and a city-wide traffic modeling project.

A closed session is also scheduled to discuss the Weinbrenner redevelopment project and a possible new tourism agreement with Visit Marshfield.

The meeting will be open to the public and broadcast live on Marshfield Broadcasting, cable channel 991, and the Marshfield Broadcasting app on Roku, Amazon Fire TV, and Apple TV. A full recording will also be available online following the session.
​
Community members interested in sharing comments may do so during the public comment period at the start of the meeting.

Marshfield, WI - March 15, 2025 
In a recent City Public Works meeting, officials greenlit key infrastructure projects aimed at enhancing water services and traffic management across the city.
Water Main Extension for Yellowstone Drive
During the meeting, the board approved the low bid submitted by Earth Incorporated of Arpin for the Yellowstone Drive water main extension. This project stems from a development agreement with NextGen Agronomy, a new facility on Yellowstone Drive. The city is committed to extending a 200-foot water main and installing a sanitary sewer lateral to support the new business.
The bid totaled approximately $136,000, with the project budget set at $163,000, primarily funded through Tax Increment District (TID) 12. The project includes a contingency and engineering costs, with most funding expected to come from the TID. The city also benefits from a program where utility providers cover the cost difference when upsizing mains beyond eight inches.
City officials clarified that while the bid exceeds initial estimates—crafted at just under $120,000—the increase is considered reasonable. A budget resolution is forthcoming to finalize funding, with approval pending at the next council meeting.
Enhancing Traffic Flow with Citywide Signal Analysis
In addition, the city approved a federal grant-funded project to improve traffic signal coordination. The initiative aims to analyze and optimize 27 traffic intersections throughout the city, aligning signal timing to reduce congestion and improve travel efficiency.
Funded through the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law’s Carbon Reduction Program, the project has an estimated cost of $120,000, with the city’s share at $24,000. The project is scheduled for delivery in the 2026-2027 fiscal years, with proposals to be solicited later this year.
City officials highlighted that this analysis will help synchronize traffic lights—potentially easing bottlenecks on major roads like Veterans and Vine Streets—especially during peak hours. The goal is to improve green-light coordination and reduce wait times, making city travel smoother and more efficient.
Looking Ahead
The public works board emphasized the importance of these projects in supporting economic development and quality of life. With approvals secured, city staff will proceed with finalizing contracts and budget resolutions, paving the way for infrastructure improvements later this year.
Public Input and Future Meetings
No citizens' comments were recorded during the meeting, and the board adjourned after confirming plans for upcoming projects.