Nancy J. Wirtz, 72, Oconto Falls, passed away surrounded by family and friends on Monday, July 13, 2026, at St. Mary Hospital, Green Bay. The daughter of Joseph and Genevieve (Brusky) Sinclair was born July 8, 1954, in Green Bay.

Nancy graduated from Pulaski High School with the class of 1972. On Nov. 8, 1997, she married Eugene Wirtz at Assumption BVM Church in Pulaski.

Smoke from wildfires in Minnesota and Canada  has moved into the area, leaving a dim haze across the state that can be seen in every direction.

It started out as an ambitious project to make the history of Shawano more prominent, but now Shawano Has History has caught the eye of the Wisconsin State Historical Society.

A call about a 10-year-old jumping off the bridge along the Wolf River between the city of Shawano and town of Richmond turned out to have a happy ending after it was discovered that an older man had jumped in and was just fine.

With an open slot for governor on the ballot in 2026, a large group of Democrats has jumped into the ring.

Francesca Hong, the Democratic socialist and Madison Assembly representative, has narrowly led most polling in a crowded Democratic field, with former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes close behind, though the majority of respondents have said they don’t know who they will support.

The Friends of Suring Area Public Library and the Suring Area Historical Society are holding a brat fry and pie/ice cream social.

The social will be held from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 26 on the old Suring bridge at Riverside Park, 205 E. Main St., Suring. Brats, hamburgers, hot dogs, pies, ice cream, soda, root beer floats and water will be sold.

Summer means more time outdoors, but it also brings increased exposure to mosquitoes, bees and ticks.

While most insect bites and stings cause only mild irritation, some can lead to serious allergic reactions or illnesses such as Lyme disease. Aspirus nurse practitioner Bruce Anderson says knowing how to prevent bites and recognize when medical care is needed can help keep outdoor adventures safe and enjoyable.

Francis Richard ‘Ric’ Steffeck, 79, of Mayville, passed away unexpectedly July 11, 2026, while camping on his property on the farm he grew up on near Spruce.

Michael D. Ekern, 79, of Eland, died Sunday, July 12, 2026, at Marshfield Medical Center, Weston.

Mike was born May 25, 1947, in Rice Lake, the son of Duane and Mary (Reckenthaler) Ekern.

Mike was a United States Army veteran, serving from 1968-70. Mike was a proud veteran and was able to go on the Honor Flight in 2025 with his son, Scott.

On Sept. 30, 1978, Mike was united in marriage to Katie Verkuilen.