Chamber breaks ground for new site

Chamber members, staff and supporters got to play in the dirt Thursday, something many said was a long time coming.

The Shawano Country Chamber of Commerce broke ground Thursday under bright blue skies for its new offices and Visitor Welcome Center, to be built at 1263 S. Main St., Shawano.

“Six years ago the chamber recognized that it couldn’t be in a nondescript location, so it formed a building task force that looked at various sites,” said Jeff Mace, the chamber’s building task force chairman.

The chamber selected the Main Street site in 2005 and began raising the $600,000 needed for the facility. As of Thursday, the chamber’s foundation was closing in on that goal.

“We have a little in excess of $500,000. We’re not there yet, but we’ve made the determination to move forward with the project,” Mace said.

Next week demolition will begin on a small, dilapidated house on the property. By Nov. 15, Mace said, the chamber, tourism council and SCEPI will occupy the building.

“It’s been a long time coming and I want to thank you all for your support and for coming out,” Mace said.

Chamber Executive director Nancy Smith also thanked chamber members and the community for their support.

“This would not be happening it is wasn’t for your support,” Smith said. “That’s what’s going to put this new building up.”

She said they are continuing to seek grants and other funding to make up what’s left to raise. Fund-raising was even happening right at the event. SCEPI presented a check to the chamber’s foundation for $2,000 for the project.

“This new building will be quite an accomplishment for all of our members,” Smith said. “It’s going to be the front door to our community. It’s going to be a tremendous first impression to people. We are definitely investing in the community and it’s going to show.”

The center will be a gathering place for visitors and residents where they can learn about Shawano Country’s history, culture and future.

Two severely injured in head-on collision

CECIL — Two people suffered serious injuries following a two-vehicle head-on collision in Cecil.

Chamber breaks ground for new site

Chamber members, staff and supporters got to play in the dirt Thursday, something many said was a long time coming.

Clintonville Schools to receive nearly $30,000 in special education aid

State Superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster announced June 21 distribution of aid totaling $5.4 million to 126 local educational agencies for services they provided to students with disabilities.

Birds on bridge in Tigerton delay structure’s replacement

County highway officials had expected to start replacing the Cedar Street/Spaulding Street bridge in Tigerton on Monday — but a few birds got in the way.