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.

When I put up my new calendar, it said the first month of 2026 is January. Now lest you think I enjoyed one too many toddies this past Christmas holiday, I assure you that is not the case. In fact, my head is so clear that I got to thinking. Jon warned me how dangerous that can be, but did I pay attention? Of course not. Anyway, what I got to thinking about is the irrational way the Gregorian Calendar is arranged.

The worthwhile accomplishments of Wittenberg-Birnamwood High School alumni will again be recognized this year at the class of 2026 commencement ceremony.

The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection invites individuals with a passion for promoting agriculture to apply for the position of 79th Alice in Dairyland through Jan. 30.

As one of the most widely recognized marketing communications professionals in Wisconsin agriculture, Alice in Dairyland travels extensively, promoting Wisconsin’s agricultural industry and its impact on the state economy.

Cheryl Pytleski was honored in late December as the 10,000th fan of the 2025-26 school year at Panther athletics events. This honor is presented annually in memory of the ultimate OFHS Super Fan, Mary Bukowski. OFHS athletic director Jerry Moynihan presented Pytleski with some gifts, and her name will be added to the plaque that is permanently displayed at OFHS.

Ida Amanda Brekke, 100, of Wittenberg, passed away peacefully Monday, Dec. 29, 2025, at Milestone Senior Living in Woodruff.

Ida was born Aug. 9, 1925, in Elderon, the daughter of the late Emma and Ole R. Dobbe, of Rosholt. She was the granddaughter of Berthine Isakson Olson and Jorgen (George) Olson from Elderon, who immigrated from Norway.

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.