The honor guard with the Veterans of Menominee Nation and other select representatives make their way around the arena Dec. 31 during the Menominee Nation Sobriety Powwow held at the Omaeqnomenewak Wetohkatikamek Center in Keshena. Prior to the powwow, a feast was held.

All owners of dogs in Shawano County are reminded that rabies vaccinations and dog licenses are required for the animals.

A rabies vaccination by a veterinarian is required within 30 days after the dog reaches 5 months of age and revaccinated within one year after the initial vaccination. Older vaccinated dogs must be revaccinated when the certificates expires or within three years of the previous vaccination.

Regan Buchholz can certainly tell a tall tale. As proof, the Bonduel man was just named the winner of the 2025 Burlington Liars’ Club contest.

According to Buchholz, “My parents were so poor that they had to bury Grandfather naked just so my dad had a suit to wear to the funeral.”

The retired letter carrier said it was only the third time he entered the contest.

The season of giving has passed, but the season of diseases is wreaking havoc in Shawano County as cases of cold, flu, COVID-19 and more are on the rise.

Nick Mau, Shawano-Menominee Counties Health Department director, said ThedaCare Medical Center-Shawano is full, with some of the more serious cases being transported to the New London hospital and other nearby facilities.

As winter storms impact communities across the Upper Midwest, Aspirus Health is urging residents to take precautions when shoveling snow to avoid injury.

Occupational therapist Nathaniel Kropidlowski said improper body mechanics, lack of preparation and poor equipment are leading causes of strain and accidents during this common winter chore.

Change was a common theme for most of the top stories that made headlines in this year’s Shawano Leader.