By Brent Frankenhoff

A new face is behind the counter at Amherst’s Village Hall these days. Jodi Patoka began her new job as clerk/treasurer August 16.

Patoka may be a familiar area face, because, as she told the Jensen Community Spirit, “I grew up in Amherst and graduated from Amherst High School. I am married to my high-school sweetheart, Joe, who is also an AHS graduate. We have three children: Riley, 21; Brady, 19; and Carlee, 12. My parents are also Village residents, and I have two younger sisters who both live close by.”

For the past 22 years, Patoka has worked at First Weber Realtors in Stevens Point, beginning as an administrative assistant and moving up to branch manager, a position she’s held for the past six years.

In addition to being able to work in her hometown, Patoka said the job appealed to her because of her background in office management and her real estate experience.

She has both her real estate salesperson and broker’s licenses and is a notary public. “If anyone needs notary services, they are welcome to come and see me,” she added. “I’d be happy to help.”

In her free time, Patoka said she enjoys being outside and taking her two dogs, Rascal and Libby, for walks, riding her UTV, and spending time with family and friends.

“I am very excited to start this new chapter in my life,” she added, “and welcome everyone to stop in at Village Hall and say, ‘Hi!’ ”