The Wisconsin Department of Tourism released 2025 economic impact data showing Shawano Country tourism generated a record economic impact total of $125 million, contributing to Wisconsin tourism’s booming year.

The $125 million includes $119 million in Shawano County and $6 million in Menominee County.

The Wisconsin Department of Tourism released 2025 economic impact data showing Oconto County tourism generated an economic impact total of $147 million, contributing to Wisconsin tourism’s booming year.

The $147 million was higher than the $119 million generated in nearby Shawano County.

Big Brothers Big Sisters is making an impact on youths in Shawano County, but more help is needed, according to Cassiti Schultz, program coordinator in northeast Wisconsin.

The suspect who allegedly stole a vehicle in Shawano on June 10 was reportedly arrested in Outagamie County later in the day, according to Shawano Police Chief Michael Musolff.

Police initially responded to a report of a vehicle theft from the 200 block of North Main Street at about 7:37 a.m. The stolen vehicle was subsequently involved in a crash in Outagamie County, and the suspect was taken into custody by authorities there.

Kelly Heroux, president and chief executive officer of Peshtigo National Bank, was recently recognized by the Wisconsin Bankers Association for her service to the industry.

Heroux joined the WBA board of directors in 2023 and served a three-year term.

Names of students named to the Birnamwood Elementary and Middle School honor roll for the 2025-26 third trimester have been announced.

A Honor Roll

Sixth grade: Aidan Carlson. Brooklyn Cotter, Ava Fritzel, Addison Fuller, Elise Traut, Mckenna Underwood, Kendyl Vlietstra.

Names of students listed on the Gillett High School 2025-26 second semester honor roll have been released.

Highest Honors

4.0 and Above

Names of Gillett Middle School students listed on the 2025-26 second semester honor roll have been released.

Highest Honors, 4.0

Hannah Cloud, Landon Eaker, Jase Fetterly, Bo Halla, Zacariah McClain, Noah Soper, Ryder Van Donsel, Reese Woodke, Hutson Zeitler, Marissa Zeitler.

High Honors, 3.5-3.99

Bear L. Ritschke, 63, passed away unexpectedly April 26, 2026, at home.

Bear was born March 10, 1963, in Oshkosh. He grew up in the Wittenberg area where he attended school. He later made his home in Green Bay where he eventually met his fiancée, Irene. They had a great relationship where they really complemented each other’s presence.