Shawano Leader News

Shawano Police Department

May 31

Police logged 20 incidents, including the following:

Drug Offense — Police investigated a drug complaint at Union and Green Bay streets.

Accident — Police responded to a two-vehicle property damage accident at Division and Washington streets.

Disturbance — Police responded to a disturbance in the 500 block of South Sawyer Street.

Warrant — A 28-year-old woman visiting an inmate at the Work Release Center, 1240 Engel Drive, was taken into custody on a warrant.

Disorderly — Police responded to a disorderly conduct complaint in the 400 block of West Division Street.

Bail Jumping — A 19-year-old man was taken into custody for a probation violation at Division and Andrews streets.

Suspicious — Police responded to a suspicious person complaint in the 100 block of Prairie Street.

Disturbance — Police responded to a disturbance in the 400 block of West Lieg Avenue.

May 30

Police logged 30 incidents, including the following:

Auto Theft — A vehicle was reported stolen in the 1200 block of East Elizabeth Street.

Fire — Authorities responded to a false alarm at a residence in the 1000 block of South Water Street.

Harassment — Police responded to a harassment complaint at Taco Bell, 1266 E. Green Bay St.

Auto Theft — A vehicle was reported stolen in the 400 block of South Washington Street.

Disorderly — Police responded to a lewd and lascivious behavior complaint at Memorial Park, 909 S. Lincoln St.

Juvenile — Police responded to a juvenile problem in the 200 block of North Bartlett Street.

Warrant — A 31-year-old man was taken into custody on a warrant in the 1200 block of East Green Bay Street.

May 29

Police logged 29 incidents, including the following:

Drug Offense — Police investigated a drug complaint at Sturgeon Park, 811 S. Water St.

Accident — Police responded to a two-vehicle accident at County Road B and Evergreen Street. One driver sustained a minor injury.

Vandalism — Police responded to a vandalism complaint in the 700 block of East Center Street.

Suspicious — Police responded to a suspicious person complaint at County Road B and Evergreen Street.

Theft — Police investigated a property theft complaint in the 300 block of South Main Street.

Juvenile — Police responded to a juvenile problem at Wolf River Park, 211 N. Riverside Drive.

Shawano County Sheriff’s Department

May 31

Deputies logged 41 incidents, including the following:

Suspicious — Authorities responded to a suspicious person complaint on Elm Avenue in Wescott.

Drug Offense — The Sheriff’s Department K-9 unit assisted Shawano police with a drug complaint at Union and Green Bay streets.

Juvenile — Authorities investigated a juvenile alcohol complaint on state Highway 22 in Cecil.

Assault — Authorities investigated an assault complaint on Witt-Birn Town Line Road in Wittenberg.

Disorderly — Authorities responded to a disorderly conduct complaint on Nabor Road in Cecil.

Disturbance — Authorities responded to a disturbance on state Highway 29 in Hartland.

Disturbance — Authorities responded to a domestic disturbance on Summer Street in Aniwa.

Accidents — Authorities logged four accidents, including an injury accident on Maple Road in the town of Herman and two deer-related crashes.

May 30

Deputies logged 44 incidents, including the following:

Hit and Run — Authorities investigated a property damage hit-and-run on Cecil Street in Bonduel.

Disturbance — Authorities responded to a disturbance on Rosemary Drive in Pulaski.

Assault — Authorities investigated an assault complaint on Lake Drive in Wescott.

Harassment — Authorities responded to a harassment complaint on Cedar Lane in Gresham.

OWI — A 56-year-old Appleton man was arrested for operating while intoxicated on state Highway 47 in Hartland.

OWI — A 27-year-old Merrill man was arrested for operating while intoxicated on state Highway 29 in Seneca.

Warrant — A 55-year-old Shawano man was arrested on a warrant on County Road K in Waukechon.

Accidents — Authorities logged four accidents, including three deer-related crashes.

May 29

Deputies logged 44 incidents, including the following:

Warrant — A 28-year-old woman was taken into custody on a warrant on Broadway Road in Richmond.

Theft — Authorities investigated a property theft complaint on Loon Lake Circle in Wescott.

Juvenile — Authorities investigated a juvenile alcohol complaint on Grand Avenue in Wittenberg.

Auto Theft — A vehicle was reported stolen on Schabow Street in Gresham.

Theft — Authorities investigated a property theft complaint on Kildeer Lane in Birnamwood.

Juvenile — Authorities responded to a juvenile problem on Old Shawano Road in Pella.

Hit and Run — Authorities investigated a property damage hit-and-run on Ball Park Road in Seneca.

Accidents — Authorities logged two accidents, including an injury accident on Moh He Con Nuck Road in Bowler and one deer-related crash.

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Valedictorian, salutatorian headed to UW-MadisonBy: 

Jason Arndt, [email protected]

Leader Photo by Jason Arndt From left, Shawano Community High School Class of 2015 president Madeline Schultz, valedictorian Cole Huntington and salutatorian Elena Bohm were the first three students to receive their diplomas Friday during the Shawano Community High School commencement ceremony.
Leader Photo by Jason Arndt SCHS Class of 2015 valedictorian Cole Huntington receives his diploma from School Board President Tyler Schmidt at Friday’s commencement ceremony.

Valedictorian Cole Huntington urged his 165 classmates to persevere through challenges in his commencement speech Friday at Shawano Community High School.

Using his experiences in the classroom and in athletics to illustrate his message, Huntington said being benched turned into a learning experience.

“Get back up, because that is what life is about,” he said. “Learn from those mistakes and do something different the next time.”

Huntington also reminded his classmates to be grateful for what they have and to thank the people in their lives who have helped them.

“Please take the time to thank your parents, and tell them you love them,” Huntington said.

He also emphasized the need for humility and kindness, suggesting people take the time to reach out and help others and to be team players, something he learned through sports.

“After all, it is not about me, it is about my teammates,” Huntington said.

Huntington lettered in football and basketball, and recently qualified for the WIAA Division 2 golf sectional. He also was a member of FBLA for four years and served on the student council, including as president last year.

Salutatorian Elena Bohm also used sports and her experience in cross-country to relate the life lessons she learned at SCHS.

She said there were times, especially during her sophomore year, when she wanted to slow down or stop, but had to continue running. The WIAA gave her another challenge last fall when it changed the girls cross-country distance from 4K to 5K.

“I just barely made it,” she joked.

Bohm was a member of Tri-M, a musical group, symphony orchestra, student council and Junior Achievement.

She and Huntington plan to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Huntington will study business; Bohm has not decided on a major.

Principal Scott Zwirschitz acknowledged Huntington, Bohm and the entire Class of 2015 for leaving behind a legacy of academic and athletic achievement.

“I would like to thank (Cole) and (Elena) for their kind words,” Zwirschitz said. “You all definitely left a lasting impression on this school’s history.”

Superintendent Gary Cumberland encouraged students to continue learning after leaving the school and to find something they are passionate about.

“Keep making a difference in this world,” Cumberland said.

Near the conclusion of the commencement, Zwirschitz acknowledged two missing members of the Class of 2015: Cody Borsche and Tyler Welch, who were killed last fall in an auto accident.

Zwirschitz reminded the community to remember them in a positive light. The message was greeted with loud applause.

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Lower fees, carnival among highlightsBy: 

Leader Staff

The Shawano County Humane Society will launch its second annual Cat Adopt-a-Thon on Monday in hopes of finding good homes for a growing feline population.

The society inaugurated the event last year when more than 100 cats were awaiting adoption in a shelter with 72 cages.

The situation is not quite so catastrophic this year, but it’s still early, according to the society’s assistant director, Shelly Hansen.

“It’s kitten season,” she said. “Everybody’s having babies this time of year. Dogs, deer, cats.”

Kittens born of stray cats during the winter often die, she said, but this time of year they’re more noticeable and more likely to be brought to the shelter.

There was a point last summer when the shelter had to stop taking in any new cats, but there’s still some room for now.

Hansen said there were 50 cats at the shelter as of Friday afternoon.

“There’s plenty to adopt,” she said.

The society initiated a spay and neutering program, offered one day a month, that Hansen thinks could be one of the reasons the shelter isn’t quite as full this year.

Cat owners can get their pets neutered for $50 and spayed for $75. Rabies shots and other pet care is also available.

The society is dropping its prices for adoption during the adopt-a-thon.

The regular adoption fee is $125, but while the adopt-a-thon lasts the price will be $50 for a cat under the age of 5 and $25 for cats 5 and older. The fee includes a rabies shot and spaying or neutering.

The society will also hold a carnival for kids at 3 p.m. June 13 as part of the adopt-a-thon. There will be prizes and games and a scavenger hunt, Hansen said.

Last year’s adopt-a-thon went for only a month, but this year’s is scheduled through summer, or until funds run out.

The adopt-a-thon is sponsored by Thrivent Financial, which also funded last year’s program.

“The inaugural event helped us quadruple our cat adoptions during the time frame it was held,” said Jennifer Wolf, society board member. “The board of directors and the workers are so grateful for Thrivent’s donation and what that means to our cats at the Humane Society.”

The shelter is also looking for donations for other needs, including kitten food, puppy food and cleaning products, Hansen said.

The shelter is located at 1290 Jaycee Court and is open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

More information can be found at www.shawanocountyhumanesociety.com.

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The Shawano County Emergency Food and Shelter Board has been awarded federal funds through the U.S. Department of Homeland Security/Federal Emergency Management Agency.

The county has been awarded $7,872 to supplement emergency food and shelter programs.

A local board will determine how the funds awarded to Shawano County are to be distributed. The local board is responsible for recommending agencies to receive the funds. Qualifying agencies are urged to apply.

Under terms of the grant, local agencies chosen to receive funds must be private voluntary nonprofits or units of government, be eligible to receive federal funds, have an accounting system, practice nondiscrimination, have demonstrated the capability to deliver emergency food and/or shelter programs, and have a voluntary board if a private voluntary organization.

Shawano County has distributed emergency funds previously, with many area food pantries, United Way and shelters participating.

Public or private voluntary agencies interested in applying for the funds should contact Linda Olson, United Way of Shawano County executive director, at 715-526-0213 for an application. The deadline for applications to be received is June 11.

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Shawano Police Department

May 28

Police logged 25 incidents, including the following:

Suspicious — Police responded to a suspicious vehicle complaint in the 1200 block of East Green Bay Street.

Theft — Police responded to a theft complaint at Taco Bell, 1266 E. Green Bay St.

Disturbance — Police responded to a disturbance in the 200 block of South Sawyer Street.

Warrant — A 30-year-old Shawano man was taken into custody on a warrant in the 200 block of East Fifth Street.

Juvenile — Police responded to a juvenile problem in the 100 block of River Heights.

Disturbance — Police responded to a disturbance in the 1100 block of South Main Street.

Shawano County Sheriff’s Department

May 28

Deputies logged 34 incidents, including the following:

Reckless Driving — Authorities responded to a reckless driving complaint on state Highway 117 in Hartland.

Suspicious — Authorities responded to a suspicious vehicle complaint on Lake Drive in Wescott.

Fraud — Authorities investigated an identity theft complaint on Oak Street in Bowler.

Suspicious — Authorities responded to a suspicious vehicle complaint on state Highway 47-55 in Wescott.

Assault — Authorities investigated an assault on state Highway 47-55 in Wescott.

Juvenile — Authorities responded to a juvenile problem on Hemlock Road in Wittenberg.

Accidents — Authorities logged three deer-related crashes.

Clintonville Police Department

May 28

Police logged four incidents, including the following:

Hit and Run — Police investigated two hit-and-run complaints, on South Clinton Avenue and in a parking lot on South Main Street.

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Council could vote to remove MageeBy: 

Grace Kirchner, Leader Correspondent

The mayor of Clintonville will face a public hearing June 15 on charges leveled by a former political opponent.

Mayor Judith Magee will be able to respond at the hearing to a Chapter 17 complaint filed by Tricia Rose, a local newspaper publisher who ran a write-in campaign against Magee in 2014.

Rose filed the complaint in December accusing Magee of misconduct in office, abuse of power, theft of property, willfully destroying public property, releasing confidential information and concealing a crime.

Rose’s filing is termed a Chapter 17 complaint, referring to the Wisconsin state statute that deals with removing elected officials from office. The procedure, which can be initiated by a resident taxpayer, includes written charges and a speedy public hearing at which the accused official can present a defense.

The Common Council could remove Magee from office if the proposal is supported by three-fourths (eight) of the members following the hearing.

The hearing will begin at 5:30 p.m. June 15 in City Hall, 50 10th St. If the hearing is not completed by 10 p.m., the council will adjourn until 5:30 p.m. June 16. If additional time is needed, the hearing will continue at 5:30 p.m. June 23.

The hearing is open to the public, but public comments will not be accepted. The city hired Jim Kalny, an attorney with Davis Kuelthau Law, to be the hearing examiner.

If the hearing is completed and the council doesn’t think there is enough evidence to remove Magee from office, Rose will be responsible for the legal fees.

The city will pay for the cost of Magee’s defense. If she is removed from office, however, she would have to pay for her defense costs.

Rose filed her initial complaint Dec. 5. In an amended complaint filed Dec. 30, Rose accused Magee of lying on several occasions, alleged that Magee helped get her kicked out of the Clintonville Rotary Club, said Magee’s city cellphone was wiped clean and charged that Magee released confidential information.

On Dec. 9, city attorney April Dunlavy told the council that Magee had illegally authorized a $203,000 check, which the council voided, for improvements in a TIF district. Council President Jeannie Schley also said Magee approved stop signs, not OK’d by the council, costing nearly $10,000.

Dunlavy is the daughter of Alderwoman Gloria Dunlavy and niece of Schley.

Magee has been at odds with some council members for several months. The divide became clear when the council voted to suspend then-City Administrator Lisa Kotter in May 2014. The council voted 6-4 two weeks later to extend Kotter’s suspension and refer allegations of misconduct to the city’s labor attorney. Magee vetoed that vote on June 2, and Kotter returned to work.

On June 10, the council, with a 6-4 vote, failed to override Magee’s veto, falling one vote short of the required supermajority. Council members then passed, again 6-4, a no-confidence vote against Magee.

Many city residents spoke in support of Kotter and Magee at the June meeting, which had to be moved from City Hall to the Community Center because of the overflow crowd.

The council voted 7-3 in July to indefinitely place Kotter on administrative leave while continuing its investigation. Kotter resigned in September, just eight days after her 17-year anniversary as the city administrator.

The city agreed to pay Kotter’s salary, which was $80,200 annually, through May 15, and Kotter agreed not to file any complaints against the city. She denied any wrongdoing.

Her departure, according to a joint news release issued by Kotter and the city, was not based on any misconduct but rather on “philosophical and stylistic differences.”

The controversy helped spark the successful recall effort — the first in city history — against Greg Rose, District 4 alderman and husband of Tricia Rose.

Magee took a medical leave of absence from her mayoral duties Oct. 1. In a statement released to the media, she said she was honored to be elected by city voters to the position but needed time away from the turmoil that had enveloped the city since the April 2014 election.

“Since April 1, I have had numerous threats made to me and my position, six members of the council are regularly attacking the work I do, we have had a council member resign, the city administrator resigned and a new city attorney who is related to two council members,” Magee said in her statement.

She returned to work Nov. 26.

Three council members involved in the 2014 controversies opted not to seek re-election in April. A fourth was defeated.

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Opening planned in SeptemberBy: 

Carol Wagner, Leader Correspondent

Photo by Carol Wagner President and CEO Dorothy Erdmann stands in front of the entrance of the new ThedaCare Medical Center-Shawano, which will open Sept. 20.

To those who have seen it, including President and CEO Dorothy Erdmann, the new ThedaCare Medical Center-Shawano, is getting rave reviews.

The new hospital is scheduled to open Sept. 20. An open house will be held Sept. 16.

“It’s coming along very well,” Erdmann said. “There will be no interruption in patient care. Everybody is working that day. It’s extremely well-organized.”

The atrium at the center of the building is the highest and most prominent part of the hospital.

“We worked really hard on natural lighting,” Erdmann said.

The east side of the new hospital has two wings. One wing is home to the rehab unit, with a classroom for Northeast Wisconsin Technical College nursing students and faculty on the second floor. The other wing includes the emergency department, with the helicopter pad nearby. The second floor includes patient beds and the obstetrics area.

Erdmann said they checked with the nearby day care center about the proximity of the landing area and was told that the children are excited about it.

Also on the first floor next to the ER will be outpatient services, which Erdmann said now accounts for the majority of care at hospitals, and a private oncology area.

“Most of the care we provide right now, you can come in and leave the same day,” Erdmann said.

The gift shop is located on the first floor near the entrance. A surgical area and food court will be located between the current clinic and the atrium. The clinic area is adding offices and exam rooms.

Staff members are already getting training in new technology, which will help provide more precise and earlier diagnosis to patients, according to Erdmann.

“All our technology is being updated so that we are at the standard of care of all hospitals no matter what their size,” she said.

The new medical center is designed to help people find where to go for their appointments and to deliver services efficiently.

“All services are on one campus,” Erdmann said. “We’re building this for the future.”

Erdmann said the project is on budget. The last item to be installed will be the flooring, which will be followed by a four-day move-in, said Erdmann, who noted the facility is intended to provide a calming, restful atmosphere.

“We created a healing environment,” she said.

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Westfahl moves into new role MondayBy: 

Leader Staff

Shawano County’s deputy coroner will take over retiring Coroner Mike Jesse’s job as of Monday.

Gov. Scott Walker on Thursday announced the appointment of Brian Westfahl to the post.

“I am confident the skill set that Brian has developed as Shawano County deputy coroner will provide a smooth transition to coroner,” Walker said. “Furthermore, his service as an Emergency Medical Technician and volunteer firefighter demonstrates an admirable level of both compassion and professionalism necessary to lead the coroner’s office.”

Westfahl serves as assistant fire chief and EMS service director in Pella. He holds EMT certifications from Fox Valley Technical College, Clintonville, and Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, Shawano. He also holds certifications from NWTC in firefighting and electrical programs.

Jesse, 70, announced his retirement in March after 16 years in the position. He was appointed by Gov. Tommy Thompson on May 16, 1999.

Jesse ran unopposed last fall for a new four-year term.

In his retirement letter, he noted that the coroner job requires availability 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year, and he feels it’s time for him to “take time to relax and enjoy home, family and friends.”

He also wrote about his love of the county and the people who make it work.

“The past 16 years, while providing this service to the residents of Shawano, I have met many wonderful people and have made many friendships working with the different entities involved in the Office of Coroner duties,” Jesse wrote.

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Shawano Police Department

May 27

Police logged 21 incidents, including the following:

Suspicious — Police responded to a suspicious person complaint at Sawyer and Randall streets.

Juvenile — Police responded to a juvenile problem in the 500 block of Lakeland Road.

Disturbance — Police responded to a domestic disturbance in the 600 block of South Main Street.

Harassment — Police responded to a harassment complaint in the 1300 block of East Lieg Avenue.

Disturbance — Police responded to a disturbance in the 900 block of South Weed Street.

Warrant — A 17-year-old Shawano male was taken into custody on a probation and parole warrant in the 1000 block of South Lutz Street.

Shawano County Sheriff’s Department

May 27

Deputies logged 46 incidents, including the following:

Truancy — Authorities logged a truancy complaint from the Wittenberg-Birnamwood School District.

Disturbance — Authorities responded to a domestic disturbance on North Shore Lane in Wescott.

Suspicious — Authorities responded to a suspicious person complaint on County Road D in Pella.

Scam — A Wittenberg man reported he had given his credit card number and other information to a company claiming to provide Internet protection.

Scam — A Wescott woman reported she has been getting calls from someone claiming to be with the Internal Revenue Service.

Suspicious — Authorities responded to a suspicious vehicle complaint on Winter Street in Aniwa.

Sex Offense — Authorities investigated a reported sex offense at the Homme Home Support Center, W18105 Hemlock Road, Wittenberg.

Accidents — Authorities logged eight accidents, including five deer-related crashes.

Clintonville Police Department

May 27

Police logged 20 incidents, including the following:

Theft — A theft was reported on South Main Street.

Theft — Medication was reported stolen on Bennett Street.

Disorderly — Police responded to a disorderly conduct complaint on Bennett Street.

Warrant — A 19-year-old Marion man was taken into custody on a warrant on Ginger Court.

Theft — A theft was reported on Seventh Street.

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Shawano man, 30, was flag person at road construction siteBy: 

Leader Staff

Authorities on Wednesday released the name of the Shawano County highway employee who died Tuesday after being struck by a vehicle at a road construction site in Red Springs.

Derek T. Stempa, 30, of Shawano, was working as a flag person at the intersection of state Highway 47 and County Road G about 11:47 a.m. when he was struck by a southbound 2003 Dodge Caravan driven by Dennis M. St. John, 68, of Tigerton, the Shawano County Sheriff’s Department said.

The Shawano County Highway Department was conducting road construction at the intersection, reducing vehicle traffic to one lane.

Heather Stempa said her husband of six years was always willing to help others, which is one of the reasons he joined the National Guard at age 17 and served in Kuwait.

“He would do anything to help and was always willing to serve,” she said, recalling a time when he assisted a family at a traffic accident. “He was always the first to help.”

Stempa also described her husband as “very outgoing and funny; he had a great sense of humor.”

She said the family, which includes 3-year-old Brynlee and 5-year-old River, took their first vacation to Tennessee a few months ago. His time with the children “is what I will remember the most,” she said.

The accident occurred in a portion of Red Springs that straddles the Menominee Reservation area known as Middle Village.

Menominee Tribal Chairman Gary Besaw issued a statement in the aftermath of the crash.

“The Menominee Nation expresses our sympathy to the family of the individual who lost his life and to the Shawano County Highway Department,” he said in the statement. “We are mindful of all who are willing to work in challenging and high risk occupations to make the roadways we travel safer. This tragedy is a reminder to all of us how precious life is and how important it is to use extra caution in all work zones.”

Construction on the project is being suspended until further notice, Besaw said.

Stempa was employed with the highway department for about five years, according to Brent Miller, county administrator.

“Derek was a loved father, son, brother, and a friend to many, he will be greatly missed,” Shawano County Sheriff Adam Bieber said in statement via social media Wednesday.

A memorial fund has been established for the Stempa family at all Capital Credit Union locations.

The crash remains under investigation by the Wisconsin State Patrol and and the Shawano County Sheriff’s Office.

Some news outlets have been reporting that St. John was from Hurley. The sheriff’s department said all information in their system shows him as a Tigerton resident.

No further information was being released Wednesday.

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Cody Rogers finds role challenging, but rewardingBy: 

MC1 Pat Migliaccio, Navy Office of Community Outreach Public Affairs

Contributed Photo Shawano Community High School graduate Cody Rogers is a sonar technician aboard the USS Mississippi, nuclear-powered attack submarine based at Pearl Harbor.

A 2012 Shawano Community High School graduate and Shawano native is part of a select crew, protecting and defending America aboard the U.S. Navy’s nuclear-powered attack submarine USS Mississippi.

Seaman Cody Rogers is a sonar technician aboard Mississippi, one of the Virginia-class submarines based at the Navy base in Pearl Harbor.

“I like working with the crew. We all come together to make the sub work. We’re like a family of nerds,” Rogers said.

Mississippi, commissioned in Pascagoula, Mississippi, in 2012, is longer than a football field at 377 feet and can sail under the waves at more than 30 mph.

Mississippi, like all attack submarines in the Navy’s fleet, can carry out an array of missions on the world’s oceans.

“The Navy’s attack submarines are at the forefront of the nation’s war fighting capabilities,” said Cmdr. Tory Swanson, commanding officer of the Mississippi. “Our primary missions include hunting enemy submarines and surface ships, launching cruise missiles at enemy targets far inland, and covertly delivering special operations forces to the fight.”

Because of the demanding nature of service aboard submarines, sailors are accepted only after rigorous testing and observation that can last several months. The crews have to be highly motivated and adapt quickly to changing conditions.

“Life on a sub is hard work and long hours but very rewarding and challenging,” Rogers said.

The training is demanding, as the crew needs to be ready to respond to any kind of situation that might arise while at sea and endure long periods of time submerged deep below the surface of the ocean.

“While Mississippi has some of the most advanced technology in the world, submarining remains a people business at the heart,” Swanson said. “Well-trained, well-disciplined professional sailors are what bring the ship to life. When we go to sea, each of us entrusts our lives to the actions of every other crew member. This requires an extraordinary amount of trust in each other.

“Those who wear the gold and silver dolphins signifying ‘qualified in submarines’ have demonstrated that they embody these high standards of personal integrity, accountability and responsibility. Working with people like this is why I became a submariner in the first place.”

The rigorous nature of submarine service is challenging, but Rogers said he enjoys it and believes it makes the crew tighter.

“Serving my country and being part of something bigger is very rewarding,” he said. “I enjoy the problem-solving, trouble-shooting part of my job. It’s a big responsibility keeping the boat safe from collisions with other vessels as well as listening to dolphins.”

Being an attack submarine sailor has meant spending a lot of time away from his friends and family, but Rogers believes in the work he is doing.

“I look forward to deployments because we get to stop at exotic ports and see the different culture of the world,” he said.

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A public meeting will be held at 2 p.m. June 6 at Clintonville City Hall to discuss the feasibility of a cooperative grocery store opening in the city.

Lynn Walter, an organizer of the New Leaf Market in Green Bay will share her experiences in forming the store. The market has more than 800 members.

Clintonville Alderwoman Mary-Beth Kuester said she arranged the meeting in response to residents’ requests for a second grocery store in Clintonville.

“This may or may not be the answer to the needs of our citizens, but we want to explore all opportunities,” she said.

A cooperative store operates as a not-for-profit organization, like a credit union, with a membership rather than owners or shareholders.

City Hall is at 50 10th St.

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Clintonville holds parade, ceremonyBy: 

Grace Kirchner, Leader Correspondent

The rain kept falling throughout the morning, but organizers of Clintonville’s Memorial Day program decided to hold the ceremonies as planned.

The parade traveled from the Veterans Memorial Circle, where a wreath was placed in honor of veterans, to Graceland Cemetery, where the program continued.

“We’ve marched in the rain before,” veteran Jim Dins said.

The Clintonville High School marching band, however, rode a bus to the cemetery entrance.

Keynote speaker retired Col. Richard Kucksdorf said that the weather perhaps kept attendance down a little, estimating 7 percent of the city’s residents were there. He wondered where the other 93 percent were.

“For some, Memorial Day is a day to open the cottage, a day off from work and school; they take the day for granted,” he said.

President Lincoln said that any country that does not honor its veterans won’t last, Kucksdorf said in his presentation.

Kucksdorf encouraged those attending the ceremony to visit Washington, D.C. He said he visits often as a student of history. He is especially impressed with the Korean Memorial.

Mayor Judith Magee read the list of the 39 area veterans who died the past year.

Dr. Harold Laatsch, 100, was introduced as the oldest veteran in attendance.

Tom Martin, Embarrass village president, read the Gettysburg Address. Julia Fenn sang the “Battle Hymn of the Republic.” The prayer was lead by Pastor Jill Meyer.

The program was repeated at the Embarrass Riverside Cemetery.

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Shawano Police Department

May 26

Police logged 25 incidents, including the following:

Theft — Police investigated a property theft in the 100 block of River Heights

Theft — Police investigated theft of money in the 1400 block of Birch Hill Lane.

Shoplifting — Police investigated a woman for shoplifting at Walmart, 1244 E. Green Bay St.

Accident — Police responded to a two-vehicle accident in the intersection of East Green Bay Street and Green Bay Court.

Warrant — Police attempted to a serve a warrant to a 41-year-old man for failing to appear on substantial battery, disorderly conduct charges.

Accident — Police responded to a two-vehicle accident in the 100 block of North Main Street.

Accident — Police investigated a two-vehicle personal injury accident on South Main and East Stevens street.

Drug — Police investigated three separate drug offense complaints, in the 800 block of South Park Street, 800 block of East Richmond Street and 200 block of South Union Street.

Suspicious — Police investigated a suspicious incident involving a porta-potty on South Sawyer and East Randall streets.

Shawano County Sheriff’s Department

May 26

Deputies logged 42 incidents, including the following:

Domestic — Authorities investigated a domestic disturbance on North Smalley Street in the town of Wescott. A man was taken into custody on a Wisconsin Department of Corrections warrant.

Traffic — A downed tree was reported on Old 47 Road and state Highway 156 in the town of Lessor.

Burglary — McKeefrey Quarry, W729 State Highway 29 in Maple Grove, was broken into, and power cords were stolen.

Accident — Authorities investigated a two-vehicle accident on South Cecil Street and state Highway 29 in Bonduel.

Juvenile — Authorities responded to a juvenile problem in the 300 block of South Prouty Street in Wittenberg.

Warrant — A 36-year-old man turned himself in on an outstanding warrant at the Shawano County Jail, 405 N. Main St.

Welfare — Authorities conducted a welfare check on an elderly woman on Swan Acre Drive in the town of Washington.

Domestic — Authorities investigated a domestic disturbance in the 800 block of Park Avenue in Mattoon.

Juvenile — Authorities responded to a juvenile problem on County Road MMM in the town of Richmond.

Property — A vehicle struck a mailbox on Riverside Drive in the town of Wescott.

Accident — Authorities responded to a vehicle spinout on state Highway 29 and Porter Road in Hartland.

Fraud — North Star Casino, W12180 County Road A, Bowler, reported a counterfeit $20 bill.

Suspicious — Authorities responded to a report of two suspicious people on County Road Z in Aniwa.

Truancies — Five truancies were logged at Bonduel Middle/High School, 400 West Green Bay St., Bonduel.

Truancy — A 35-year-old mother was issued a citation for a truant child at Tigerton Middle/High School, 213 Spaulding St., Tigerton.

Truancy — Two truancies were logged at Wittenberg-Birnamwood High School, 400 W. Grand Ave., Wittenberg.

Clintonville Police Department

May 26

Police logged 13 incidents, including the following:

Drug — Police received a report of possession of drug paraphernalia.

Truancy — Police logged a truancy complaint at Clintonville High School, 64 W. Green Tree Road.

Behavior — A complaint of inappropriate behavior was made at Rexford-Longfellow Elementary School, 25 Eighth St.

Harassment — Sexual harassment was reported at Clintonville Middle School, 255 N. Main St.

Theft — Medication was stolen on Bennett Street.

Welfare — Police cited a woman for open intoxicants and littering on North Main Street.

Property — Property damage was reported on Cedar Street.

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Shawano Police Department

May 25

Police logged 34 incidents, including the following:

Disorderly — Police responded to a disorderly conduct complaint in the 300 block of West Green Bay Street.

Truancy — Police logged six truancy complaints from the Shawano School District.

Vandalism — Bathroom walls were reported vandalized at People’s Express South, 716 S. Main St.

Drug Offense — Police investigated a drug complaint in the 800 block of East Richmond Street.

Warrant — A 41-year-old Shawano man was taken into custody on a warrant after police responded to a disturbance in the 500 block of South Sawyer Street.

Disturbance — Police responded to a disturbance in the 300 block of East Maurer Street.

Warrant — A 26-year-old woman was taken into custody on a warrant in the 500 block of East Fifth Street.

Juvenile — Police responded to a juvenile problem in the 900 block of South Sawyer Street.

Suspicious — Police responded to a suspicious vehicle complaint in the 1300 block of East Zingler Avenue.

Suspicious — Police responded to a suspicious person complaint in the 1300 block of East Green Bay Street.

Disturbance — Police responded to a disturbance in the 500 block of Prospect Circle.

Theft — An iPad was reported stolen from a vehicle in the 200 block of South Washington Street.

Shawano County Sheriff’s Department

May 25

Deputies logged 29 incidents, including the following:

Trespass — Authorities responded to a trespassing complaint on Shady Lane in the town of Washington.

Disturbance — Authorities responded to a disturbance on Main Street in Bowler.

Vandalism — Authorities responded to a vandalism complaint on Webb Street in Wittenberg.

Juvenile — A juvenile alcohol complaint on Lake Drive in Wescott was determined to be unfounded.

Fire — A vehicle fire was reported on state Highway 47-55 in Wescott.

Fire — Authorities responded to a shed fire on state Highway 22 in Belle Plaine. The fire closed all lanes of Highway 22 between Rose Brook Road and Maple Leaf Road for about 2½ hours. The shed was a total loss. Some nearby homes sustained exterior heat damage.

Disturbance — Authorities responded to a disturbance on state Highway 47 in the town of Lessor.

Disturbance — Authorities responded to a disturbance on state Highway 47-55 in Wescott.

Clintonville Police Department

May 25

Police logged seven incidents, including the following:

Disorderly — Warnings were issued for disorderly conduct on Lincoln Avenue.

Theft — A theft and forgery complaint was under investigation.

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Flag person hit at intersection under constructionBy: 

Tim Ryan, [email protected]

A Shawano County highway employee died Tuesday after being struck by a vehicle at a road construction site in Red Springs.

Authorities had not yet released the name of the 31-year-old Shawano man late Tuesday afternoon, pending notification of the family.

According to the sheriff’s department, the employee was working as a flag person at the intersection of state Highway 47 and County Road G about 11:47 a.m. when he was struck by a southbound 2003 Dodge Caravan driven by a 68-year-old Tigerton man.

The Shawano County Highway Department was conducting road construction at the intersection, reducing vehicle traffic to one lane.

Shawano County Administrative Coordinator Brent Miller confirmed the death, but said details were still under investigation. He said the county would have a formal statement in the coming days.

The Wisconsin State Patrol is investigating the crash and is coordinating the reconstruction. Shawano County sheriff’s detectives are assisting with the investigation.

Also assisting at the scene were the Menominee County Sheriff’s Office, Menominee Tribal Police Department, both Shawano and Menominee County ambulance services, and Menominee County Emergency Management.

The on-site investigation and reconstruction are ongoing, and the intersection where the incident occurred will remain closed for an undetermined amount of time, the sheriff’s department said.

Menominee County and tribal authorities were coordinating the appropriate detours.

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Speakers encourage respect, appreciation for veteransBy: 

Leader Staff

Leader Photo by Tim Ryan Shawano School District Superintendent Gary Cumberland, left, addresses at the crowd at Monday’s Memorial Day program at Shawano Community Middle School.
Leader Photo by Tim Ryan The Color Guard presents the flag during the opening ceremonies of the Memorial Day program Monday at Shawano Community Middle School.

Rain might have shoehorned Shawano’s Memorial Day observance into a crowded gymnasium at the middle school Monday, but the pride, passion and emotional fervor of the occasion were impossible to contain.

“Today, across this great nation of ours in countless places, we celebrate Memorial Day,” said County Supervisor Jerry Erdmann, a veteran of the Vietnam War. “Memorial Day may only be celebrated once throughout the year, but it is a day that most of us celebrate 365 days a year.”

Erdmann said those who served remember those who didn’t make it back.

“We made it back to spread the word that no one forget the ultimate sacrifices of so many women and so many men; not only the lives of the people who have served been affected, but also the lives of families and relatives,” Erdmann said.

Erdmann said he and those who did serve were proud of having answered the call.

“Thank God we have the willingness, the courage, the fortitude and the people who are willing to take on any task that is asked of them,” he said. “Please don’t forget the individuals who have given and sacrificed so much for what we have. If we can carry that thought with us 365 days a year, this country of ours will certainly survive for centuries to come.”

Mayor Lorna Marquardt encouraged the rekindling of patriotism in the younger generation.

“We need to remember the importance of instilling in our young people something that seems to be lacking in today’s country,” she said. “We need to be proud to be American and show respect for our veterans, respect our law enforcement and teach our children and grandchildren to have respect.”

Marquardt said the country can’t let go of its family values or religious beliefs.

“We need more people in prayer and less people fighting,” she said. “We need God back in our schools.”

Hundreds of people packed into the bleachers at Shawano Community Middle School for the ceremony normally held at Woodlawn Cemetery.

Shawano School District Superintendent Gary Cumberland — whose son Andrew is a member of the Air National Guard and just returned from deployment in Japan — gave the keynote speech.

“It is vital that we as a nation and a community pause today, and everyday for that matter, to solemnly remember and pay tribute to our brave men and woman who have fallen to secure the prosperity and liberty that we enjoy today,” he said.

Cumberland noted that 24,000 Wisconsinites have fallen in America’s wars.

“Each one of these 24,000 Wisconsinites is representative of a life cut short,” he said, but who accomplished something for the greater good.

“They did go on to do good in this world. They impacted the lives of every American,” Cumberland said. “We owe them our undying respect and gratitude.”

Master of ceremonies at Monday’s event was Dennis Bohm. Wolf River Harmony and the high school and middle school bands provided music.

Ralph Schmidt and Sheri Hagel of AMVETS Post 10 placed the memorial wreath.

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Shawano Police Department

May 24

Police logged 18 incidents, including the following:

Suspicious — Police responded to a suspicious vehicle complaint in the 800 block of East Center Street.

Harassment — Police responded to a harassment complaint in the 900 block of South Cleveland Street.

Suspicious — Police responded to a suspicious person complaint in the 1000 block of South Bartlett Street.

Disorderly — Police responded to an intoxicated person complaint in the 400 block of South Main Street.

Disorderly — Police responded to an intoxicated person complaint in the 400 block of North Franklin Street.

Accident — Police responded to a two-vehicle property damage accident at Green Bay and Main streets.

May 23

Police logged 24 incidents, including the following:

OWI — A 31-year-old woman was arrested for operating while intoxicated in the 100 block of South Main Street.

Hit and Run — Police investigated a property damage hit-and-run on Prospect Circle.

Vandalism — A truck was reported vandalized in the 100 block of Alpine Drive.

Fire — Authorities responded to a brush fire on Forest Hill Court.

Juvenile — Police responded to a juvenile problem in the 700 block of East Center Street.

Fireworks — Police responded to a fireworks complaint in the 800 block of West Picnic Street.

May 22

Police logged 24 incidents, including the following:

Disorderly — Police responded to an alcohol offense in the 200 block of East Green Bay Street.

Disturbance — Police responded to a disturbance in the 1000 block of South Franklin Street.

Drug Offense — Police investigated a drug complaint in the 300 block of South Washington Street.

Juvenile — Police responded to a juvenile problem at Memorial Park, 909 S. Lincoln St.

Drug Offense — Police investigated a drug complaint at the Skateboard Park, 107 E. Elizabeth St.

Disturbance — Police responded to a disturbance in the 300 block of South Sawyer Street.

Shawano County Sheriff’s Department

May 24

The Sheriff’s Department did not provide an incident list.

May 23

Deputies logged 58 incidents, including the following:

Disorderly — Authorities responded to an intoxicated person complaint on County Road D in Aniwa.

Theft — Authorities responded to a property theft complaint on Resort Road in the town of Washington.

Disturbance — Authorities responded to a disturbance on Ah Toh Wuk Circle in Bowler.

Theft — Authorities responded to a property theft complaint on County Road C in Green Valley.

Theft — Authorities responded to a property theft complaint on Green Valley Road in Angelica.

Disturbance — Authorities responded to a disturbance on Norway Lane in Belle Plaine.

Theft — Authorities responded to a property theft complaint on Sandy Drive in the town of Washington.

Disturbance — Authorities responded to a disturbance on U.S. Highway 45 in Birnamwood.

Accidents — Authorities logged 10 deer-related crashes.

May 22

Deputies logged 49 incidents, including the following:

Disturbance — Authorities responded to a disturbance on Plum Lane in Richmond.

Theft — Authorities responded to a property theft complaint on Anderson Avenue in Wescott.

Disturbance — Authorities responded to a disturbance on Lake View Drive in Aniwa.

Disturbance — Authorities responded to a disturbance on Ah Toh Wuk Circle in Bowler.

Juvenile — Authorities responded to a juvenile problem on Main Street in Gresham.

Accidents — Authorities logged two deer-related crashes.

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Lions Club fundraiser benefits students, communityBy: 

Jason Arndt, [email protected]

Leader Photo by Jason Arndt Autumn Thyssen, 19, of Shawano, encourages her 5-year-old mare, Mia Koda, to take a bath at Upper Red Lake during the Gresham Lions Club’s sixth annual trail ride Saturday.
Leader Photo by Jason Arndt Jacklyn Estreen, 14, of Seymour, races around brush in the North Star Horse Challenge during the Gresham Lions Club's sixth annual trail ride Saturday near Upper Red Lake.

Nearly 300 horse enthusiasts from across the region converged at the sixth annual Gresham Lions Club Trail Ride over the weekend.

The event was sponsored by the Gresham Lions Club. North Star Mohican Resort contributed an overnight stay at the resort for the winner of the North Star Horse Challenge.

The club has raised about $5,000 annually at the event on Upper Red Lake Road in the town of Red Springs, with proceeds used to support several area organizations and charitable efforts, including the Lions Camp in Rosholt for disabled children, local FFA chapters and scholarships for area high school students, .

“The Lions Club is about serving others, and we need to have our fundraisers," trail ride chairman Tom Mehlberg said. "This is our biggest fundraiser of the year. The other one is our winter carnival held in January.”

Mehlberg said the club booked 100 camping units this year, compared to 70 last year.

“This is our sixth annual, and every year, we get a little better and more organized,” he said.

The three trails are 3, 9 and 14 miles long.

Craig Birkholz, of Bonduel, joined the ride for the fourth time.

“This is a really great ride to come to, and there are great people and great trail rides,” Birkholz said. “I love meeting new people.”

Riders and campers were treated to a fish fry Friday, refreshments at the Lions Shelter near Upper Red Lake and a concert by the Star Fire Family Band on Saturday.

One of the winners was 14-year-old

Jacklyn Estreen, 14, of Seymour, was among the winners in the horse challenge. She captured first place both Friday and Saturday with the fastest time on an assigned obstacle course requiring rider and horse to weave their way through uneven terrain, over bridges and around barrels.

She won Friday's run in 43 seconds and tied with Tyler Thiel, of Black Creek, with a 40-second run Saturday.

“The first time I got on a horse was when I was 2," said Estreen, an eighth-grader at Seymour Middle School. "I just loved it and kept practicing and practicing. The most fun I have is that I can bond with the horse and like how loyal they are to you.”

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1st phase of reconstruction project begins in JuneBy: 

Grace Kirchner, Leader Correspondent

Detour signs will start going up June 1 in Clintonville, but they will remain covered until June 16 as crews make improvements along the routes in preparation for the state Highway 22 reconstruction project.

Motorists can expect to encounter flagging operations and single-lane closures along the detour route, according to information shared Thursday when representatives of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation and contractors discussed the project at a meeting with about 50 area residents.

The project includes replacement of the Pigeon River Bridge; reconstruction of Main Street including pavement, curb and gutter, sidewalks, storm sewer, street lighting, and traffic signals; replacement of water and sewer; along with modifications to several intersections to improve safety.

By mid-June, crews will close Highway 22, which is Main Street in Clintonville, between 10th and 13th streets. During the closure, traffic will be detoured via Seventh Street, Lyon Street, 12th Street, SSGT Warren Hansen Drive and state Highway 156.

Tenth Street will be open; the intersection at 13th Street will not be.

Signs will be posted to let people know that the Main Street will be open for business during the construction period, city officials said.

A temporary walkway will be open from the west to the east side of Main Street. The front doors and driveway into the Community Center will not be usable. Officials say that is primarily for safety as the work on the new bridge in that area will start on July 6.

Dave Julson told those attending the meeting that the DOT wants to keep people informed about the project. He plans to be at the site each day. Crews will be working from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Crews will also be working on the bridge on Saturdays.

Jackie Baldwin, of the Clintonville Area Chamber of Commerce, said the organization will try to keep up-to-date information about the construction on its website, http://www.clintonvillewichamber.com.

The Main Street project, estimated to cost up to $5 million, is being done in two phases. The work beginning in June is the first phase. The second phase includes the section between 13th Street and Green Tree Road, which is scheduled for 2017, but might occur as early as 2016 if federal funds become available.

can trim any or all below here if space is issue

According to DOT and city officials, the existing pavement on Main Street is nearing the end of its useful life and requires replacement. Underground utilities and storm sewer also needs to be replaced, and planners want to make changes to increase safety at the intersection of state Main Street)with state Highway 156/Green Tree Road.

The improvements include replacing the existing pavement, curb and gutter, sidewalk, storm sewer and street lighting; widening the roadway by a foot on each side between 13th Street and Highway 156/Green Tree Road to accommodate bike lanes; and extending new sidewalk along both sides to the Green Tree Road intersection.

The new roadway section will have 12-foot travel lanes, 5-foot bike lanes, 2-foot curb and gutters, 5- to 9-foot terraces and 5-foot sidewalks.

Sixteenth Street will be realigned to improve vision for motorists. The upgrades of Main Street and Highway 156/Green Tree Road will include an all-way stop controlled intersection, and the roads will be realigned so both side roads are directly across from each other.

On-street parking will not be allowed between 13th Street and Green Tree Road.

The city will replace the water main and sanitary sewer systems as part of the project.

Seventy-two trees will be removed.

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