The Women’s Fund of Greater Green Bay awards grants to eight nonprofits
All In-Girl’s Leadership Conference: Funding will support the All In-Girl’s Leadership Conference which targets 7th and 8th grade girls throughout Oconto County. This program includes interactive, educational, and fun activities centered on the three focus areas of identity, leadership and health and wellness.
Hundreds of long-forgotten individuals buried in an Oconto cemetery will be remembered in a special way on Memorial Day weekend. Among those to be memorialized are a cigar maker born in Russia, a prize fighter, a survivor of the Peshtigo Fire, a hired man, the wife of a man who died in the 1937 Polish uprising, and 2 sisters, daughters of a migrant family that lived and worked seasonally in the Oconto community for over 40 years. All of these individuals and nearly 300 more will soon be getting the long overdue respect they deserve, thanks to the Oconto County Historical Society.
A monument honoring them will be dedicated on Memorial Day weekend at Evergreen Cemetery in Oconto. The Dedication of the Evergreen Cemetery Potter’s Field Memorial will take place at 10 a.m. Saturday, May 27, at the cemetery, 325 Cook Ave., Oconto. The term “Potter’s Field” refers to the burial sites for individuals who had no family or whose families did not have money to pay for a burial plot. Current records indicate that about 300 people were buried in the Potter’s Field areas of Evergreen Cemetery, beginning in the 1850s and continuing into the 1900s. Very few of their names were engraved on markers, but most of the names have been recorded in the cemetery’s record books.
One individual buried in the Potter’s Field is a distant relative of Peter Gabrielson. Peter serves on the board of the Oconto County Historical Society and Evergreen Cemetery. He stumbled upon records of Potter’s Field burials while searching for the burial site of his grandfather’s sister. She died as an infant shortly after the family arrived in America in 1893. In 2017, Peter started recording the names of the deceased buried in Potter’s Field and researching their lives using genealogical websites and digitized newspapers to find information about the deceased. As a result, he published the Oconto Evergreen Cemetery Potter’s Field Research Project.
“It’s been a project that’s been so fascinating for me,” he said. Over hundreds of hours, Peter tracked down the names and tidbits of information about the individuals buried in the unmarked graves. The plaza is a lasting tribute of respect for the individuals buried in the Potter’s Field.
The plaza, located on the south side of the cemetery, features a granite boulder with a bronze plaque, which reads in part, “This monument is dedicated to ensure that the final resting place of these departed souls will remain forever consecrated and their names will be forever remembered.” The plaza also features 36 granite paver stones engraved with the names and interment dates of 287 individuals buried at the cemetery in unmarked graves. In addition, two marker stones have been placed on the north edge of the cemetery which identify that section as another Potter’s Field burial area.
The May 27 dedication ceremony is sponsored by the Oconto County Historical Society. The ceremony will not only recognize the deceased but also the living who contributed their time and resources. The Leon H. and Clymene M. Bond Foundation is a major supporter, providing a $20,525 grant. Other contributors include Brian Vandenlangenberg of Oconto City Monument Company; Scott and Brandon Tousey of Scott’s Concrete; Jeremy Wusterbarth and the City of Oconto Department of Public Works; Greg and Lilly Mortier, Creative Curbing & Design; Carl Liegeois, Carlie’s Landscaping; Laurie Wusterbarth, Oconto County Register of Deeds; the Oconto County Genealogical Society, especially Kitty Werner and Vern Mortier; and Peter’s wife Patty, whose support from the beginning never wavered.
Peter encourages individuals to attend the dedication to honor the people who made the memorial possible, to honor the deceased, and to acknowledge the empathy, compassion, and fair treatment that all people are entitled to.
“The time has come for us to give these individuals the recognition and respect that they deserve; in fact, have deserved for a long time,” he said.
For more information, visit www.ocontoctyhistsoc.org or Find us on Facebook.
About Historical Society
The Oconto County Historical Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving Oconto County’s history. Offering education, programming, lectures, historic city tours, museum exhibitions, and other special events, this organization strives to be a preeminent resource for exploring and instilling an appreciation of Oconto County’s diverse history. Learn more at www.ocontoctyhistsoc.org.
Oconto Middle School students will have a chance to explore new career opportunities as they try their hand at welding. The school district purchased a MobileArc Augmented Reality Welding System and Prusa i3 3D printers as part of a $20,000 technology makeover made possible through Leap for Learning. Leap for Learning is a new technology makeover program offered by the Green Bay Packers and UScellular and partially funded by a grant from the NFL Foundation.
Emily Miller, Superintendent of the Oconto Unified School District, said virtual welders will give students the opportunity to try welding without its inherent dangers.
“The goal is to provide different STEAM ((Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts and Math) opportunities and allow the students to follow up with welding and metal fabrication at the high school level,” she said. The high school offers college credit courses in welding through Northeast Wisconsin Technical College.
Samantha Boucher, Oconto County Economic Development Corporation, said that a community that supports the welding trade opens up a world of economic development opportunities. When more people learn how to weld, local industries have a larger pool of skilled trade workers who contribute to their company’s success and the local economy, too.
“Exploring the welding trade can help young people gain valuable skills and knowledge that will serve them well as they join the workforce and contribute to the community’s economic growth,” she said.
By using the welding simulators, students can practice multiple welding processes in a realistic simulator that generates three-dimensional images of metal workpieces. Realistic arc sounds accompany the visuals, contributing to an immersive experience. Students are monitored, scored, and provided feedback regarding their welding technique. Initially, students in grades five through eight will use the welding system, although the system can easily be moved to the high school, also.
“Students will learn the basics of welding, choosing different types of welds, and practicing different welding techniques in a safe environment,” Emily said.
The virtual welding program is a clear example of how collaboration between the school district and local businesses helps strengthen the community. Chad Hendzel, an NWTC welding instructor and operations manager at Yakfab Metals Inc. in Oconto, said the metal fabrication industry needs more welders, and programs like this one introduce youth to this lucrative and versatile career path.
“It’s nice to get the exposure at the middle school level so they can get into some welding classes in high school if that’s the path they’re interested in,” he said. “If a person has mechanical abilities and likes working with their hands, welding can be a fun job to have.”
Yakfab is a CNC machining, custom welding, and fabrication machine shop serving a wide variety of industries, including marine, fire protection, paper, food processing, and chemical processing.
“The type of (welding) work can be all over the board. You’re not just sitting in a booth and welding for 10 hours and go home,” he said. Welding careers pay well and provide numerous opportunities for advancement.
“Lots of careers can spawn out of a welding certificate,” Chad said.
Jim Eckes, fabrication manager at Nercon, said welders have a lot of different career opportunities in sectors like manufacturing, metal working, and metal art. Welding is an integral skill for employees of Nercon, which designs and manufactures conveyor systems and equipment for all types of consumer-packaged goods.
Jim said that one of welding’s rewards is the ability to create something with your hands and your skills.
“Even at its most basic form, you’re creating something,” Jim said. “You get to see the end product and how it fits into the other assembly.”
Introducing welding at the middle school will open doors to careers that students might not have considered and save them the time and money of pursuing a college degree or career that isn’t a good fit, Jim said. Plus, students have a safe environment to learn welding, without the heat and danger, even before entering high school.
“The earlier you can pique their interest, the better off you are,” Jim said. “They can hit the ground running and be more successful going into it.”
Experiencing welding at the middle school level also helps remove the stigma that manufacturing is a dirty, dingy jog, while it’s actually a challenging, complex and rewarding career, Jim said.
The welding system was installed in a STEAM lab at the middle school during the 2022-23 school year. The virtual welders provide students with real-world, interactive experiences in welding, plus fun opportunities to practice what they learn.
What are Chamber Bucks? Chamber Bucks are gift certificates to businesses belonging to the Oconto Area Chamber of Commerce. Each business that chooses to participate accepts the Chamber Bucks as cash, then turns them in to the Chamber, who then reimburses the business. Buying and accepting Chamber Bucks are great ways to help money stay right here in our community, as they can only be used at Chamber Member businesses!
Why Use Chamber Bucks? Why buy a generic gift card when you can buy Chamber Bucks and support local businesses? Here at the Chamber, we want to encourage people to shop locally, and we want to promote the many exceptional businesses who support our efforts through their membership. By supporting the Chamber Bucks program, you can spend exactly what you want and keep your investment local! You can feel good about supporting your community while giving the people you care about precisely what they’re looking for.
Gifts and Rewards! Chamber Bucks are the perfect way to gift and reward throughout the entire year. Reward your employees for their hard work or send a gift to a loved one. Chamber Bucks offers the flexibility to the recipient to choose how they want to use their Bucks, all while supporting our local businesses and community.
Don’t hesitate to contact us at the Chamber if you have any questions.
We hope the Chamber Bucks program will continue to benefit you greatly, and we appreciate your support!
Oconto’s downtown will spring to life for Harvest Fest, the city’s annual autumn celebration taking place on Saturday, September 23, 2023, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. On the long-anticipated day of Harvest Fest every year, Oconto closes Main Street to vehicles but opens the street to vendors and foot traffic. Harvest Fest, sponsored by the Oconto Area Chamber of Commerce, features a variety of arts and crafts, seasonal produce, and other merchandise. The Main Street shops host sidewalk sales and Harvest Fest specials. Plus, Harvest Fest offers fun kids’ activities, food, refreshments, and live music. Put on your flannel, pack up the kids, and head to Harvest Fest in downtown Oconto. You’re sure to find bright pumpkins for carving, hearty vegetables for simmering, and fun for all ages. Harvest Fest is located on Main Street from Huron Avenue to Millidge Avenue. Everyone is welcome! No admission fees.
The crowning of Miss Copperfest 2022 was held on Friday, June 10th at the Kick Off Breakfast at Copperfest grounds. Miss Copperfest received $1000, 1st Runner Up, $500, and 2nd Runner Up, $250.Miss Copperfest 2022 is Kathryn Alwin, a junior at Oconto High School, who is a lifeguard & swim instructior at the Bond Center, a Covid Tester, president of her class of 2023, a member of National Honor Society, Volleyball team, math team, Hi Q Team and a Badger Girls State Delegate. Her chamber sponsor is Oconto County Economic Development. Her plans include study in architectural engineering.
The 1st Runner Up is Eleanor Finger , a 2022 graduate of Oconto High School. She has been involved in Challenge/Advanced Placement classes, National Honor Society, 2021 Junior Prom Court, & a section leader in Choir. She was also nominated for the 2020 Wisconsin Ambassadors Music Europe Trip. She was a member of the Life Smarts Team which finished 3rd in the nation this past spring. She is also a volunteer at Abrams Spotlight Productions which is her Chamber sponsor. Her plans include Business Administration and Arts management to utilize her passion for the musical theatre in the business world. Her sponsor is Abrams Spotlight Productions.
The Second Runner Up is Hannah Moe. Her athletic interests include volleyball, basketball, track and field. She is a 2022 graduate of Oconto High school where she was a member of National Honor Society, Student Council, Band, and a recipient of the John Philip Sousa Award. Her Chamber sponsor is Cream City Country Club. Her plans are to attend UW-Oshkosh for the nursing field. Her sponsor is Cream City Country Club.
The 3 judges were Patty Heier, Mary Heiser and Kathy Hayes. The car signs for the parade were done by Vital signs, and the sashes by Main Street Creative Apparel. Other prizes and silk coronation roses were provided by Ron & Kathy Hayes. A special thank you is extended to the Chamber of Commerce sponsors: Abrams Spotlight Productions, OCEDC and Cream City Country Club. LEFT TO RIGHT: Miss Wisconsin 2021, Jennifer Schmidt; Ellie Finger, Kathryn Alwin, Emmy Reed, (Miss Copperfest 2021) and Hannah Moe.
As in recent years, the Oconto Area Chamber of Commerce has sponsored a forum for candidates running for the City of Oconto Council/Committee of the Whole.
Due to Covid-19, we feel that an in-person forum will not work this year. So, we asked each candidate to answer the following questions in 25 words or less for each response.
JEAN FELDT- Shopping is limited. Covid hasn’t helped.
TINA FRYE- No response
WESLEY MARKUSEN– Although our summer recreation options in this beautiful community are plentiful, Oconto is limited in recreational offerings for visitors during the winter months.
JOHN REED – I believe the image that is portrayed on social media hurts Oconto.
Would like to focus on changing Oconto’s image.
JEAN FELDT- Economic development, Tourism, Historic Preservation/Technology
TINA FRYE– No response
WESLEY MARKUSEN– Improving the safety and quality of our sidewalks, encouraging new businesses to improve our economy, and finding winter recreation options to appeal to visitors year-round.
JOHN REED- Safety of the citizens, employees, businesses and visitors. Focus on making Oconto a place where the citizens, employees , and businesses are proud to be part of. Education for myself on what my roles and responsibilities are as a council member. Education of the citizens on the process of getting their concerns addressed.
JEAN FELDT- Rolling out the first huge collaborative project during my Kraft Foods years. The excitement of launching and watching takeoff of a new product or service with a team is rewarding.
Understanding innovation and team dynamics including working with and appreciating people who possess very different strengths and weaknesses and styles of getting things done is critical to success of the whole.
Everyone brings perspective which we cannot see on our own.
TINA FRYE – No response
WESLEY MARKUSEN- My greatest team accomplishment has been serving on the Oconto City Council and being able to help support the needs and growth of this community.
JOHN REED – I was part of several unique rescue missions where critical thinking and team effort was required to perform a quick and positive outcome.
JEAN FELDT- Oconto is not a huge city and development of both areas will need to happen.
TINA FRYE – No response
WESLEY MARKUSEN- The downtown area of Oconto is thriving compared to Business 41. We should concentrate on filling the vacant businesses on the south side.
JOHN REED –I believe we should concentrate on doing what we can to develop all of Oconto.
JEAN FELDT- The city has made great strides in encouraging the residences and businesses to spruce things up. The Chamber’s Rose Award has honored many residents and businesses for rehabilitating old properties and making them glorious once again. The Troy Fonder project on Pecor Street is an excellent example of what can be done in our historic community. Supporting Troy and others as they take on these challenging projects have the power to preserve our history for generations to come.
TINA FRYE – No response
WESLEY MARKUSEN-– Keeping up on ordinances has already improved the look of our neighborhoods. Fixing sidewalks would also improve the appearance and safety for our citizens.
JOHN REED –I believe we should concentrate on revitalizing all the areas of Oconto if needed. Will help instill pride in our community.
JEAN FELDT- House Calls – Home healthcare visits that don’t cost an arm and a leg. Help with life tasks top to bottom including personal care, home and property upkeep and maintenance. Tech support including helping to recommend, procure and set up tech solutions that make life easier. Culture at home. Live performances, art lessons. Establish a buddy program, adopt a grandma, grandpa.
TINA FRYE – No response
WESLEY MARKUSEN- Improving the number of full-time EMS staff available, as Chief Bostedt has started to do, to decrease response times for emergencies.
JOHN REED –I believe we need a non-medical transportation service to help our elders 24 hours a day , seven days a week.
JEAN FELDT- Growing our local economy. Continue to support the improvements the city is working towards including our school system. Our kids are in need of a YES vote on the school referendum.
TINA FRYE – No response
WELEY MARKUSEN- Drug-related issues are a big challenge in Oconto. Increasing resources and technology for the police as well as community rehabilitation programs can address it.
JOHN W REED –Instilling pride by trying to promote more community member involvement and listen to their concerns. Address the issues that can be done, fairly and consistently.
JEAN FELDT- Shop local everyone, whenever you can. Reward those who shop local. Create incentives to shop local. Attract and welcome new businesses to Oconto.
TINA FRYE – No response
WESSLEY MARKUSEN- My priorities include researching options to fill our vacant businesses, supporting the Chamber of Commerce’s advertising efforts,
and frequenting local businesses myself.
JOHN W REED –Promote the change of Oconto’s image to get more visitors within our community .
JEAN FELDT- That life is so much shorter than you think it’s going to be when you’re young. To be the last of my immediate family (Mom, Dad and sibling) was not something I ever imagined. Don’t wait to live your best life.
TINA FRYE –No response
WESLEY MARKUSEN- I have learned how gratifying and fulfilling it is to serve my community and speak up for the needs of my fellow citizens.
JOHN W REED –The damage that social media and people can do with stories or comments in today’s society, and doing so without fully understanding the situation.
JEAN FELDT- Are there certain city departments in which you envision investing more resources?
Technology to connect with residents, businesses and potential new residents, visitors.
Are there City Departments where you envision spending less resources?
Having been through the budgeting process 8 times, I can vouch for the fact that the budget is run as tightly as possible.
We are fortunate to have an extremely exceptional and talented city administrator who has used her skills as a CPA to turn our finances around during her tenure. Important to note also is that our departments are constantly researching grant opportunities and other opportunities to source revenue to ease the burden on tax payers.
TINA FRYE – No response
WESLEY MARKUSEN- I would like to invest more resources in the Parks and Recreation department to improve winter recreation options.
I would prefer not to take funds away from any other department, and instead focus on seeking grants and other funding sources so we aren’t robbing Peter to pay Paul.
JOHN W REED –The department heads do a great job with their respective budgets, and do so with creative ways of saving money. Allow them to do their jobs.
JEAN FELDT- Helped. We get things done.
TINA FRYE – No response
WESLEY MARKUSEN– I don’t have any personal knowledge of how the council functioned with 10. However, I feel 6 representatives is sufficient for the size of Oconto.
JOHN W REED- I believe we should have at least 8 council members. This would allow the recreation of necessary committees that have been removed.
JEAN FELDT- I am committed to this town, its people and its treasures. Continuing to represent and support the goals and dreams of Oconto residents would be a great honor.
TINA FRYE – No response
WESLEY MARKUSEN- I am understanding of our community’s needs, I judge issues based on facts, not personal opinions, and I rely on common sense.
JOHN W REED-I don’t believe I’m better than any of the candidates. I believe I have something to offer to promote the best interests of Oconto.
Even though Covid 19 is still a major concern, vendors and many shoppers turned out for the annual Oconto Area Chamber of Commerce Harvest Fest on September 26th from 10:00 a.m.- 3:00 p.m. on Main St, Oconto. Shoppers got to sample wine and alcoholic beverages at Jorene’s Lecuts, purchase caramel apples and baked goods from Bonnie Forgette, purchase amazing ice cream from the booth of Mr. & Mrs. John DeMuth, purchase chicken booyah from Frank Mathy and the Oconto Kiwanis, sit down and enjoy sandwiches from Crivello’s and Aurora Carrazco’s Mexican booth. Children were able to decorate and take home with them a pumpkin from Crossroads Janitorial and Brenda Race. Other vendors selling their wares were Mommy & Me, Beggin Bites, produce from Jim Cherney, Creative Treasures, Plexus, L’Bri, Birch Bark Jewelry, crafts from Lisa Fonder, Lula Roe and 31 Bags, rummage items from Tim Groll, crafts from Arlene Hanarahan, Color Street, bicycles from Bobby Jo Lipp, wood carvings from Power Tool Artist, Heart Scents candles, t-shirts from the Republican Party, crafts from Ann Ristow, Senegence makeup, Usborne Books, Glass Garden angles, Paparazzi jewelry, amazing canned goods from Norine Walters, Ebbie’s Boutique, and info from Copperfest, Chiropractic Advantage, the Oconto Humane Society and Christian Lit from Josh Zepnick. Many businesses were open on Main St. including Corner Stone Nutrition, the Garage, Beyoutiful Boutique, Main St. Creative Apparel, Main St. Insurance, Omni Ray Lighting, Bay Impressions, Associated Bank, Benzer Pharmacy and Robert’s Hardware. The Chamber wishes to thank all the vendors and shoppers, the City of Oconto, Jeremey Wusterbarth and his crew for the barriers, John’s Johns, Gary Zahn and Copperfest for refuse barrels, Bob Schwartz, Chamber Board member, WOCO and the Reporter for advertising the event.
Ron Hayes, Chamber President, and Kathy Hayes, Board Member.
The Oconto Area Chamber of Commerce had a monthly meeting called to order by President Ron Hayes in June at the Carriage House with a picnic lunch provided for members and guest.
The announcement of the winners of this year’s scholarship contest and the crowning took place prior to the meeting. 2ND RUNNERUP – BECKY BERTH who is a student at Minnesota State University Moorhead where she will graduate in December 2020 with degrees in Audio Technology and Sports Communication. Her special interests are playing the saxophone, softball, and creating videos. After graduation she hopes to start a career in Broadcast Engineering. Her Chamber sponsor is Cain Accounting. She will receive $250 as 2nd Runner Up. She is currently an intern with the Green Bay Booyah.
1ST RUNNER UP – JENNA HORNBLAD who is a recent graduate of Oconto High School where she ranked 4th in her class. She was class Vice-President, a member of National Honor Society, All Conference in Basketball, Honorable mention in Volleyball, and All-Fox Valley Girls Basketball Honorable Mention. She plans to attend NWTC & then UW-Green Bay to pursue a Degree in Nursing and perhaps a Doctorate of Nursing at U W-Oshkosh. Her Chamber sponsor is Care Partners
“MISS OCONTO 2020” – KALISTA SUSA attends Oconto High School where she will be a senior in the fall and she is an avid softball player on the High School team and with River Rebels Team. Her interests also include painting, volunteering at the Humane Society, reading, and mentoring young softball players. She was the most improved softball player in 2019 and the Miss Copperfest 1st Runner Up in 2019. She hopes to pursue a career as a Dental Hygienist. Her chamber sponsor is BeYoutiful Boutique. The judges were Beth Larson, Kim Bronikowski and Kathy Hayes and the greeter during the judging was Sara Perrizo. Each of the 8 candidates we had this year were interviewed one at a time.
Each of the 8 candidates submitted their resume and responded to this year’s essay question: “What it means to be an American to you?” The 3 finalists presented their essay in about 3 minutes and then answered 10 personality questions and 5 history questions. Alayna Westenberg, Miss Copperfest 2019 did the crowning. The other candidates who did not place in the top 3 received $25 in Chamber Bucks. The other sponsors of the remaining candidates were: Crivellos, Machickanee Players, Sportsmans Club, Avon & Patsy Bake, & Wagner Shell. Mane Street Creative Apparel donated the sash.
The Chamber would like to welcome one of its newest members, John’s Johns which provides portable toilets to the surrounding area.
The Chamber will begin next month conducting a monthly drawing for a member in attendance at the monthly meeting. $25 in Chamber Bucks will be awarded.
The annual golf outing with Oconto & Oconto Falls has been cancelled for this year. Members are looking into a golf social sometime in the future.
Items are needed for the Chamber Welcome Bags which are given out to new residents at Oconto City Hall. These items can be dropped off at OCEDC ON Main St. Oconto or call Kathy at 920-373-7377 for pick up. These items that include coupons, menus, business cards, pens, and any info about your business or organization.
“Tunes on Tuesday” will begin on June 23 at the Gazebo behind the Carriage House from 6:00-8:00 p.m. Bring a lawn chair and enjoy a variety of music coordinated by the Oconto Tourism Committee & Steve Peterson. Thank you to an anonymous donor for defraying a great portion of the cost. If there is rain, the event will be cancelled. Watch for updates on Face Book.
The Chamber thanked Laura Cormier of Bellin Hospital on her retirement at the end of June. Julie Bieber, her replacement was introduced. Bellin Hospital is up and running and practicing social distancing and safety procedures. If you have any symptoms for Covid-19 you may call for an appointment at 920-834-1105 and obtain free testing between the hours of 6:00-10:00 a.m. at Bellin in Oconto. The hospital will celebrate its 15th Anniversary on June 30th. Laura thanked the Chamber and its members for their support of the hospital over the past 15 years.
Abrams Theatre had postponed its events due to Covid-19 but “My Fair Lady” is scheduled for its first performance on Sept. 17th and thereafter. Go to www.abramstheatre.com for more info, dates and tickets.
The National Walleye Tournament is coming July 23-24. The rules meeting will be virtual and OCEDC will present coupons to the fishermen. If you have something you would like included, drop these items off to Samantha at OCEDC. Micro Loans up to $10,000 are available and well as grants for small businesses. Please let Samantha know if you have any events that are cancelled and she will get the word out.
The City Wide Clean Up will occur on July 15 and July 18th. You may drop off items free of charge on those two days only at the City Recycling Center.
The Chamber is still planning to sponsor its annual Harvest Fest on Sept. 26th on Main St. If conditions change due to Covid-19, further info will be available. There is a great amount of space on Main St. and social distancing can be practiced. There will be form shortly on the Chamber website at www.ocontoareachamber.com The same fees as the last several years will apply.
Alayna Westenberg, Miss Copperfest 2019, Jenna Hornblad, 1st Runner Up 2020, and Kalista Susa, Miss Oconto 2020, Becky Berth, 2nd Runner Up was unable to attend crowning.
