Market Messenger is in the process of creating a Keepsake Booklet that will go out in all of the papers and preserved in a time capsule!  If you’d like to advertise or sponsor, please contact them.  In addition, they are also seeking advertisers for the next “Change Makers” booklet.  See info below!

Click here for printable form.

Five F-35s: EAA Chapter 1710 Gets Rare Look Inside Hardwood Range

Finley, WI – Monday, August 10, 2026, Members of EAA Chapter 1710 were given a rare opportunity to tour the historic Hardwood Air-to-Ground Weapons Range, a military training area with decades of aviation history. Since the range is no longer open to the public, the private visit provided 14-chapter members with a firsthand look at a facility few aviation enthusiasts ever get to experience.

The visit became even more memorable when five F-35 Lightning II fighter jets from Madison, only a 10-minute flight away, conducted training operations over the range. Members watched as the aircraft performed simulated weapons training, including practice bomb drops and gun-training exercises.

For aviation enthusiasts, it was about as close as you can get to experiencing military aviation training without being in the cockpit.

“This was one of those days where you had to stop and take it all in,” said EAA Chapter 1710 President Mathieu. “Standing in a place with so much history while watching five F-35s conduct training right in front of us was absolutely incredible. We’re incredibly thankful to everyone who made this private tour possible.”

EAA Chapter 1710 extends its sincere appreciation to the military personnel, range personnel and everyone involved in making the visit possible. It was a day to remember and another reminder of why aviation is so much more than simply flying airplanes.

EAA Chapter 1710, based in Clintonville, WI, continues to grow as a vibrant hub for aviation enthusiasts, offering hands-on building projects, educational programs, and community events that inspire the next generation of aviators. They hold monthly gatherings on the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m.

For additional information about EAA Chapter 1710 activities and upcoming events, please contact the chapter directly or follow the chapter’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/EAAChapter1710

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EAA Chapter 1710 Hosts Retired U.S. Air Force Reserve Combat Photographer

Clintonville, WI – Wednesday, August 19, 2026 – Members of EAA Chapter 1710 had the opportunity to hear firsthand accounts of military service, combat photography, and documenting history during a special presentation on Wednesday, August 19, at Clintonville Municipal Airport.

The chapter welcomed retired United States Air Force Reserve Master Sergeant Chris “Foghorn” Hibben, who shared stories and experiences from his remarkable career as a combat photographer.

Hibben traveled to 35 countries and all 50 states during his military career and was recognized as the 2019 Combat Photographer of the Year. His presentation provided chapter members with a unique look at the role of military photographers and the experiences behind the photographs that document military history.

Hibben explained that combat photographers do far more than take pictures. While deployed, they can also participate in ground operations alongside other military personnel, placing them directly in challenging and sometimes dangerous environments.

Before the transition to digital photography, Hibben captured approximately 20,000 still photographs throughout his career, preserving moments and stories through film.

“Chris gave our members a fascinating look into a career that combines photography, aviation, military service and storytelling,” said EAA Chapter 1710 President. “We are incredibly grateful for his service to our country and for taking the time to share these personal experiences with our chapter.”

The presentation is part of EAA Chapter 1710’s ongoing efforts to provide members and the community with educational opportunities that connect aviation with history, military service and real-world experiences.

EAA Chapter 1710 extends its sincere appreciation to MSgt Chris “Foghorn” Hibben for his service, his stories, and his willingness to share his experiences with the next generation of aviation enthusiasts.

EAA Chapter 1710, based in Clintonville, WI, continues to grow as a vibrant hub for aviation enthusiasts, offering hands-on building projects, educational programs, and community events that inspire the next generation of aviators. They hold monthly gatherings on the third Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m.

McMahon Joins First State Bank as Vice President Business Banker

New London, WI – First State Bank is proud to welcome Lucas McMahon as Vice President, Business Banker. In this position, McMahon will be responsible for cultivating new business relationships and supporting existing clients with customized financing and banking solutions designed to help businesses grow and succeed.

McMahon brings extensive experience in commercial and agricultural banking, having served as Vice President of Commercial and Agricultural Lending and previously as a Credit Analyst. His background provides a strong blend of lending expertise and financial analysis, enabling him to deliver strategic solutions to meet the unique needs of business customers.

“Lucas brings a strong combination of lending knowledge, leadership experience, and a genuine passion for helping businesses succeed,” said Jason Wery, EVP, Chief Banking Officer at First State Bank. “His knowledge of commercial and agricultural banking, coupled with his analytical background, positions him to help our customers identify opportunities and achieve their long-term goals.”

Lucas currently resides in Pulaski with his wife, Sirena, and their two children, Lincoln and Madelyn. He enjoys snowmobiling, side-by-side riding, jet skiing, and golf.

First State Bank is a $565 million community bank with offices in New London, Auburndale, Clintonville, Manawa, Marshfield, Stevens Point, Waupaca, and Wisconsin Rapids. For more information visit bankfirststate.com or call (800) 994-2500.

Celebrating 60 Years of Impact

For 60 years, CAP Services has been helping individuals and families overcome challenges, build stability, and create brighter futures.

This year, we’re celebrating our history with a special anniversary edition of our annual report, highlighting six decades of impact throughout the communities we serve.

Behind the numbers are real people whose lives have been changed: children prepared for kindergarten, families finding safe housing, workers gaining new skills and building better careers, and individuals finding support when they need it most.

EXPLORE 60 YEARS OF IMPACT

Our 60th anniversary is an opportunity to celebrate everything we’ve accomplished together—and it’s also a chance to look ahead. We invite you to invest in the next 60 years of possibility. 

The need for CAP Services’ programs continues, and we’re committed to ensuring that individuals and families have access to the opportunities, resources, and support they need to move forward.

Thanks to a generous $10,000 Challenge Match from the J. J. Keller Foundation, your new or increased gift in honor of CAP’s 60th anniversary will have twice the impact.

MAKE AN ANNIVERSARY GIFT

Whether you’ve supported CAP for decades or are just learning about our work, thank you for being part of our community.

Together, we can continue to provide transformative programs and services for generations to come.

With gratitude,

Scott Norder
CAP Services, Inc.