Denny Geiseman, president of the Veterans Resource Center (VRC) in Eagle River, announced during last Tuesday’s Eagle River City Council meeting that they had moved forward on the purchase of the lot at 1100 N. Railroad St. to install a veteran’s memorial.

The land is also in play to possibly house a dog park — something the city has been talking about since 2018 but has been unable to find a suitable location that checks all the necessary boxes.

VRC purchased the land from Aspirus Health for $280,000, and Geiseman said during the Sept. 8 meeting that he expected to close the following week. Fundraising and planning will begin soon on the designs for a veteran’s memorial.

Geiseman again reiterated his support for the dual land use saying “it only makes sense” to partner with the city by combining efforts to house a much-needed veterans memorial and dog park in the space.

“We feel that to build a memorial on one side and have a dog park, and partner with the city only makes sense, because it beautifies that whole section there as you’re coming into town… You see beautification right off the bat instead of just a plain piece of land,” he said. “I think it just enhances our whole community.”

“I don’t get a sense from the committee that they know what they’re gonna do over there. It’s difficult to get a straight answer out of anybody about that,” he said.

Although Mayor Deb Brown has expressed interest in coming to a conclusion sooner rather than later on where to put the dog park, Washelesky said with winter approaching he doesn’t see the harm in holding out as they look for an appropriate site.

“We’re in September now. I don’t think at this point it makes any sense to push something through that might not be well-planned,” Washelesky said.

Talks were again put on hold.

In the meantime, anyone who would like to donate toward the cost of purchasing the land or the memorial can stop into Nicolet Bank where an account is set up under Veterans Resource Center. More information will be released as plans are finalized.

A hero in our midst

Also during the Sept. 8 meeting, the Eagle River City Council commended Geiseman — a veteran himself —who has been selected to be inducted into the Heroes Hall of Fame in November.

A resolution was read into the record recognizing Geiseman for his efforts in community service along with all that he does for area veterans.

According to the resolution, Geiseman has “distinguished himself through his service to our nation and his continued commitment to the Eagle River community,” and “demonstrated an ongoing dedication to supporting local veterans through his involvement with and service to the Veterans Resource Center in Eagle River, helping ensure that veterans and their families have access to resources, support, and a welcoming community.”

The resolution goes on to say that the prestigious honor reflects not only upon Geiseman, but also upon the city and the many people whose lives have been positively impacted by his dedication and service.

“The city council of the City of Eagle River believes it is appropriate to publicly recognize and express its gratitude to Denny Geiseman for his service, accomplishments, dedication to local veterans, and the example he has set for others,” the resolution says. “The City of Eagle River proudly recognizes Denny Geiseman’s service to our country, his dedication to veterans in our community, and his contributions through the Veterans Resource Center, and extends its best wishes to him and his family as he receives this well-deserved honor on Veterans Day 2026.”

Mayor Deb Brown thanked Geiseman for his service, saying “We are very lucky to have you in our community.”

The induction ceremony will take place on Veteran’s Day, Nov. 11, at the Heroes Hall of Fame in Iron Mountain, Mich., in recognition of Geiseman’s service and contributions.