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Projects, new businesses show bustling Shawano

“If things start happening, don’t worry, don’t stew; just go right along and you’ll start happening too.” — Dr. Seuss Earlier this week someone posted this comment on Facebook, “Driving through Shawano is like driving through Green Bay, sure does seem to be thriving.” No doubt the writer of that comment noticed existing businesses as well as several construction projects, new business signs and lots of activity throughout the community. Several new businesses opened recently on East Green Bay Street. If you haven’t tried El Tequila’s, you are in for a treat! The décor is bright and colorful and the food is wonderful, with generous portions. Service is great too, friendly and helpful. It is nice to have Papa Murphy’s back in Shawano. One day when driving by, I saw people lined up outside the door waiting to get in. Papa Murphy’s is located in the recently remodeled former Kwik Trip building. The Vapor Shoppe located in the Fairview Plaza, 750 E. Green Bay St., opened recently. They sell electronic cigarettes, advertised as a healthier alternative to smoking. I have read many comments on the social network from people who are glad the shop has opened. One person said “We were heavy smokers, but no more. Smoker’s cough … gone. No more smoker’s breath, no ash tray, no smell on our clothes and hair.” Smokey Joe’s, located on South Main Street, also sells the smokeless products. I am personally not a smoker, but am glad to hear there are alternatives available for those who wish to cut down or quit. Co-Vantage Credit Union opened a second location in the city last month. It is located at the corner of South Main and Richmond Street. They are planning a grand opening in early November. The former Country Store has been demolished and the construction of a new Family Dollar Store has started. Hopefully you have had the chance to visit the recently opened Anew Tea Emporium and Antiques, located at 103 South Main Street. Sara Davis commented on their website: “Enjoying my second cup of Immunity Elixir tea. Very soothing and it tastes wonderful!” They also sell antiques on consignment. It’s a great place for finding special Christmas gifts. There are many positive comments being made about the Old Glory Candy Store located at 108 E. Division St. The variety of candy available is impressive. It’s like a step back in time finding candy treats I remember having when I was a kid. If you haven’t tried their fudge, you don’t know what you are missing! Next week the Plan Commission will be reviewing the plans for the Historic Lincoln School, LLC project. Interior work is scheduled to begin later this fall. The ThedaCare building project is moving along nicely. Last week ThedaCare obtained a plumbing permit for the estimated $2,000,000 project cost. You have probably noticed a lot of activity at the former Best Western located across from Lakeshore Lanes. Tony Zielinski and his management team from American Marine are working hard to have the “Shawano Four Seasons Resort” open by as early as this weekend. Longtime local residents Todd and Brenda Hansen are experienced in lodging management; they will be the new resort managers. The pool will be beautiful when it is finished. It will feature a Caribbean blue epoxy. It will be so nice to have this business back in operation and under new management/ownership. Last week I had the pleasure of attending the opening ceremony of the Wisconsin State 600 Club women’s bowling tournament at Lakeshore Lanes. This is the 40th year for the tournament and we are fortunate Shawano was selected to be this year’s host city. The tournament travels to different parts of the state every year. It will run every weekend through November. Tournament co-chairs are Tami Pullen and Cindy Westphal. Others who assisted in the planning are Rosie Thiel, Kim Bellingrath, Brenda Buettner and Donna Doede. Thiel commented, “There are 800 women who will be bowling in this tournament. They come from all over the state to include Marinette, Eau Claire, Milwaukee, Madison, Kenosha and Racine.” These types of events are a real boost to our local economy. Thanks to the Westphal family for being great tournament hosts. So many exciting things are going on in Shawano; I have just touched on a few of them. One could say “Shawano is happening!” The answer to last week’s question — What business advertised the slogan “Where The Customer Is The Company” — is Shawano Equity Co-Operative. This week’s question is: What business was owned/operated by partners Jim Reetz and Jim Otto in 1982?