Get ready to welcome 2025 in true Fremont style with local legend Kevin Searle, better known as Cowboy. This charismatic musician has been a fixture in the area for 25+ years, and his upcoming New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day performances promise to be a great time. From being born in Manhattan, New York, to having the afternoon spot at The World Famous Tootsies for two years, to leading the Wisconsin-based Buffalo Stomp band, Cowboy’s journey to becoming a Fremont staple is a story worth telling. A Musical Journey Kevin “Cowboy” Searle grew up in Manhattan, teaching himself to play guitar while working as a boys group home leader. His musical journey led him to the world-famous Tootsie’s Orchid Lounge in Nashville, where he performed daily 12 PM–6 PM shows. Years later, life brought him to Fremont, Wisconsin. While working as an over-the-road truck driver, Cowboy discovered the charm of Fremont while playing local gigs and decided to call it home for a bit. That was roughly 25 years ago. “Life brought me here,” Cowboy shares. “I found a place to live and never left.” Cowboy’s Unique Style Cowboy describes his performances as “feel-good nostalgic fun” His influences range from country legends to rock icons and everything in between. Add in a story, a shot of tequila, a few WOOO’s, and jokes made to the crowd, and his performances reflect his passion for creating an enjoyable experience for all. New Year’s Celebrations This New Year’s Eve, Cowboy & The Thirsty Banditos will perform at the Hahn-A-Lula Resort,  a special place for him as it was one of the first venues he played in Fremont, thanks to a chance meeting with Brian Hahn while playing in Combined Locks. “Brian told me his folks, Cliff and Judy Hahn, owned the resort and booked bands often. He booked me the gig, and the rest is history, Fremont's never been the same!” Cowboy recalls. The New Year’s Day Bash at the Hotel Fremont is equally exciting. Cowboy loves the atmosphere: “The hotel clears out the dining room so we can play in a more intimate setting and hang out all day with our friends. Plus, they’ve got a special Chinese food menu!” Both events will feature a talented lineup of friends, including but not limited to, Rick on keyboard, Wade on drums New Year's Eve and Tony, New Years Day Colorado Mike on guitar, The singing fireman Krause singing, and Rick on trumpet, among many other friends. And of course, there will be plenty of Tequila and Miller 64 to go around! Fond Fremont Memories Fremont holds a special place in Cowboy’s heart. “The way the community comes together is truly something special,” says Cowboy. His favorite memories must be all the events he got to play over the years! Memories like Fremont's Festivus, Kick the S*** out of Cancer, The Veterans Backyard Bash, Chicken Barbeque fundraisers, and many more, made it fun to give back when you get to do it with friends! "It has never felt like work to play especially at community events!" Looking Ahead to 2025 Cowboy is excited about what’s to come in 2025. “I’m looking forward to Fremont’s growth and seeing the Riverwalk help connect the village and turn the town into a true destination for live music” he shares. He’s also planning to record some of his own music this summer with Thompson Hill Co., Michael and Jennifer Twombly’s recording studio. Mark your calendar for Cowboy’s World’s Largest Birthday Bash at the Bridge Bar on March 29th. “We’re celebrating Steve, myself, and anyone else with a birthday around that time,” he says with a grin. Add in every local musician in the area, it’s sure to be a party, you wont want to miss Celebrate with Cowboy Don’t miss out on ringing in 2024 with Cowboy & The Thirsty Banditos. Here are the details: New Year’s Eve Party at Hahn-A-Lula Resort 📍 8861 S Wolf River Rd, Fremont, WI 54940 🗓️ Tuesday, December 31st 🪩 Doors open at 3 PM, live music starts at 5 PM. Champagne toast at 8:30 PM! New Year’s Day Bash at Hotel Fremont 📍 218 Wolf River Dr, Fremont, WI 54940 🗓️ Wednesday, January 1st 🎶 Live music begins at 2 PM. Enjoy a special Chinese food menu! Grab your friends, raise a glass, and let’s make some memories with Cowboy this New Year’s! Cheers to great music, good food, and unforgettable times, want to see where else he is playing, look at events on the Fremont Chamber Website and watch our site!

Get ready to celebrate New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day in style with two fantastic events featuring the one and only Cowboy & The Thirsty Banditos ! New Year’s Eve Party At Hahn-A-Lula Resort 📍 8861 S Wolf River Rd, Fremont, WI 54940 🗓️ Sunday, December 31st 🪩 Celebrate early or double the fun! The party kicks off with doors opening at 3 PM, and the live music starts at 5 PM. Cowboy & The Thirsty Banditos will have you dancing into the evening! 🍾 At 8:30 PM, toast to the New Year with a champagne celebration and be home early—or head out for round two! New Year’s Day Bash at Hotel Fremont 📍 218 Wolf River Dr, Fremont, WI 54940 🗓️ Monday, January 1st 🎶 Cowboy is back to keep the party going at 2PM with more live music to kick off 2024 the right way! 🥡 Enjoy a special Chinese food menu—perfect for starting your year deliciously! Don’t miss out on these incredible events. Grab your friends, raise a glass, and let’s ring in 2024 with great music, good food, and unforgettable memories. See you there! 🎉🍾🎶

The Weyauwega-Fremont Warhawks wrestling team delivered an impressive performance at the Midstates Classic held at UW-Whitewater on December 27 and 28, securing a 2nd-place finish as a team. Across two intense days of competition, individual wrestlers showcased their skills against tough opponents from schools across the region. Coach Portatz and his 2024 Wrestling team at UW Whitewater Day 1 Highlights The Warhawks started strong, advancing several wrestlers to the quarterfinals after two rounds of competition. The following athletes progressed to the quarterfinals: Zander, Jaydon, Josue, Riley, Carter B., Aiden, Collin, Connor, and Carter M. Wrestlers Jake, Nolan, and Alex earned victories in their first match and competed on the consolation sfide following their second matches. Wyatt also wrestled on the consolation side after a bye in the second round. In the quarterfinals, five Warhawks advanced to the semifinals: Jaydon, Josue, Carter B., Collin, and Carter M. Meanwhile, Zander, Riley, Jake, Aiden, Connor, and Nolan wrestled hard on the consolation side. Alex and Wyatt concluded their runs on Day 1. Day 1 concluded with a special milestone as Aiden Marquette and Carter McDaniel both achieved their 100th career victories, marking a proud moment for the team and community. Day 2 Action The Warhawks returned to the mats on December 28, determined to improve their standings. By midday, two wrestlers advanced to the finals: Jaydon and Carter M. Meanwhile, Josue, Carter B., Collin, and Connor wrestled in the consolation semifinals, and other teammates battled for placement in their respective brackets. Final Results The Warhawks finished the tournament in 2nd place overall, a testament to their hard work and determination. Below are the individual results for the Warhawks: 106 lbs: Zander - 10th place 113 lbs: Jaydon - 2nd place 120 lbs: Josue - 6th place 126 lbs: Riley - 7th place 132 lbs: Jake - 7th place 138 lbs: Carter B. - 3rd place 144 lbs: Aiden - 7th place 150 lbs: Collin - 3rd place 157 lbs: Connor - 6th place 175 lbs: Carter M. - 2nd place 190 lbs: Nolan - 11th place Team and Community Pride The Warhawks’ strong showing at the Midstates Classic reflects their dedication and team spirit. With multiple athletes achieving high placements and personal milestones, the tournament was a success for the program. Congratulations to all the wrestlers and coaches for their outstanding efforts! Stay tuned for future updates as the Warhawks continue their season and work toward even greater achievements.

Village of Fremont Public Notice of Non-Candidacy   Please be advised that pursuant to WI Stat 8.10(2) (am) and 120.06(6)(b)3m the Village of Fremont has received notice of non-candidacy from the incumbent of: Village Trustee – Todd “T.C” Bartol   Megan Wunderlich-Village Clerk Village of Fremont Posted: December 26, 2024

This week, we’re thrilled to highlight Shanna from Coaction Realty Group, LLC a dedicated realtor who has been helping families and individuals find their dream homes since 2019. Shanna’s passion for real estate began as a child when she and her mom would take evening strolls through City Park, admiring the charm and character of local homes. That early interest blossomed into a career she truly loves. Shanna specializes in residential and vacant land properties, bringing a wealth of knowledge about rural real estate, including wells, septics, and unique landscapes. She describes the joy of working in the Weyauwega-Fremont area: “The community is so welcoming, and the people are wonderful. It’s easy to see why so many want to call this area home.” As a member of Coaction Realty Group, LLC Shanna is part of a close-knit team that prioritizes teamwork and growth. “Coaction means teamwork,” she explains. The boutique nature of the company allows them to focus on their agents’ success and stay current with laws and techniques in the ever-evolving real estate industry.  Looking ahead, Shanna sees a strong future for the Weyauwega-Fremont real estate market. While interest rates continue to fluctuate, she notes a continued demand for homes and encourages first-time buyers and sellers to find an agent they trust. “We’re here to guide you through every step,” she emphasizes. Thanks to two strong local Chamber of Commerce and sites like Weyauwega Fremont News &  Events promoting events and activities in the area, more people are visiting and moving to the area! Shanna’s commitment to the community goes far beyond real estate. She serves on the board of the Fremont Chamber of Commerce and actively gives back by donating winter gear to the local elementary school each year and contributing to various local events and causes. When asked about her favorite moments as a realtor, Shanna says it’s all about the people. Whether it’s a beautifully decorated home, a cozy farm with Highland cows, or a unique and challenging property, every listing holds a special story. “Seeing my clients smile at the closing table, knowing they’re happy and excited about their decision, is the best feeling in the world,” she says. As a proud sponsor of Weyauwega Fremont News, Shanna looks forward to supporting this platform and helping keep our community connected. We are so grateful for Shanna’s dedication to the Weyauwega-Fremont area and her support of Weyauwega Fremont News & Events. Thank you, Shanna! For those looking to buy or sell a home, Shanna can be reached at shanna@coactionre.com  or 920-277-7907 . Learn more about her services by visiting www.coactionrealestate.com  or following CoAction Real Estate, LLC  on Facebook. If you have an event or news to publish, please send it to Events@WeyauwegaFremontNews.com .

Looking for fun in Weyauwega this weekend? Check out these great events happening around town! Saturday, December 28th 🥩 Meat Raffle at Picklebellies Pub Don’t miss the monthly meat raffle at Picklebellies Pub ! Location:  128 E Main St, Weyauwega, WI Paddles On Sale:  1 PM ($10 each – keep them for the entire raffle!) Event Starts:  2 PM Win some great prizes and cash raffles while enjoying the fun community vibes! 🏈 Packers Tailgate Party at T’s Corner Bar Cheer on the Packers as they take on the Vikings! Head to T’s Corner Bar  for an all-day tailgate party hosted by Wild Haire Smokehouse. Location:  142 E Main St, Weyauwega, WI Bar Opens:  6 AM Game Time:  12 PM Enjoy game-day specials, bring a dish to pass, and settle in for the action! Wild Haire Smokehouse will be serving up delicious smoked meats. Don’t miss out! Whether you're winning big at the raffle or rooting for the Packers with friends, Weyauwega has something for everyone this weekend. Let’s make it one to remember!

Get ready for a weekend packed with live music, friendly competition, and great vibes in Fremont! Friday, December 27th 🎸 Cole Boz at The Bridge Bar Kick off the weekend with live music at The Bridge Bar! Cole Boz takes the stage at 8:30 PM . Bring your crew, grab a drink, and enjoy a fantastic night out! Saturday, December 28th 🎱 Singles Pool Tournament at Wolf River Lodge Are you ready to rack ‘em up? Test your skills at the Singles Pool Tournament! Time:  Sign up at 6 PM Entry Fee:  $10 per person Format:  Double elimination, so there’s always a second chance to win! 🎶 Cowboy & Colorado Mike at The World-Famous Buss Stop Don't miss this high-energy show featuring Colorado Mike and his epic guitar licks, joined by Cowboy for an afternoon of songs, antics, and pure fun! Time:  3 PM Location:  Buss Stop Come for the music, stay for the Fun! 🌵🍻🎸 Looking Ahead: New Year’s Celebrations in Fremont! 🥂 🎉 New Year's Eve at Hahn-A-Lula Celebrate New Year’s Eve early or twice! Location:  8861 S Wolf River Rd Doors Open:  3 PM Live Music:  Cowboy & The Thirsty Banditos, 5–9 PM Ball Drop:  8:30 PM with champagne toasts. 🎶 New Year’s Day at Hotel Fremont Start 2025 off right with live music and delicious food! Location:  218 Wolf River Dr Time:  Cowboy plays 2–6 PM Special:  Chinese food available to keep the festivities going. Make it a Fremont weekend and stick around for next week’s incredible New Year’s celebrations! Whether you’re shooting pool, enjoying live music, or ringing in 2025, there’s always something happening in our community! 🎉🍾

William "Bill" M. Preuss, 72, of Weyauwega, passed away peacefully on December 21, 2024. Bill was born in Weyauwega on May 5, 1952, son and oldest child of Merlin and Nancy Preuss. He was raised on the Waupaca County farm where he worked alongside his dad for many years. He attended St. Peter's Lutheran School and graduated from Weyauwega High School in 1970. Bill retired early from farming and began a life-long career as a truck driver, which he did until he retired this past summer. He enjoyed his last job at Dairyland Chopping more than any other and made many close friends that he treasured greatly. He was most proud of his family and loved talking to them daily. He will be missed every day by his daughters, Carly (Josh) Schroeder and Erin Wait (Matt Kortendick), and his grandkids, Kyra, Kennedy and Dimitri Schroeder and Charlie and Zeke Wait. He enjoyed spending any time he could with them playing cards, deer hunting, boating on the river and spending a week each summer at the cabin. Mostly he enjoyed just hanging out, cracking jokes and hearing about what everyone was up to. Bill is further survived by his two sisters, Sheridah (Kenneth) Bartol and Dot Preuss. He was preceded in death by his parents Merlin and Nancy, and many close friends including Lenny and Jim who he missed and talked about often over the years. He frequently spoke about how lucky he was to be able to be here and enjoy life as long as he did. He was a great friend to many and will be missed around town by all that knew and loved him. Bill's Celebration of Life will be held on Friday, December 27, 2024 at the Dahlke Life Celebration Center in Weyauwega from 4:00 - 7:00 pm. In lieu of flowers, memorials may be directed to the Humane Society of Waupaca County (2293 Commercial Drive, Waupaca, WI 54981). Dahlke Funeral Home is assisting the Family with arrangements, to leave your condolences, please go to https://www.dahlkefh.com/obituaries/william-preuss .

It’s an exciting week of sports action for Weyauwega-Fremont High School! As the holiday break approaches, our student-athletes are staying busy representing their school with pride. Here’s what’s happening this week: Thursday, December 26th No School Friday, December 27th Wrestling (Varsity) Time: 8:30 AM Location: UW-Whitewater Girls Basketball (Varsity) Time: 2:00 PM Opponent: Omro High School Location: Omro HS Boys Basketball (Varsity) Time: 6:00 PM Opponent: Auburndale High School Location: Auburndale HS Saturday, December 28th Girls Basketball (Varsity) Time: 1:00 PM Opponent: Omro High School Location: Omro HS Boys Basketball (Varsity) Time: 6:00 PM Opponent: Auburndale High School Location: Auburndale HS Whether you’re cheering courtside or following the action from home, let’s show our school spirit and support our teams! Go, Weyauwega-Fremont!

Dave Hintz, the passionate founder of Hides for Heroes, recently shared a heartwarming story that exemplifies the spirit of giving in our community. Alex Loehrke, a senior at Weyauwega High School and the youngest of four, has been part of Hides for Heroes since its inception. Alongside his siblings, Alex has been collecting deer hides to support wounded veterans at Camp Hackett in Phillips, WI, providing outdoor adventures for Purple Heart recipients. Founder, Dave Hintz (left) seen here with Alex Loehrke (right) This week, Alex contributed an incredible 105 hides! Dave praised Alex’s dedication, calling him "a hero" for his unwavering support. Hides for Heroes has grown tremendously since its humble beginnings, raising $186,000 to date for veterans and local causes. A special thank you to Alex, his family, and everyone in the community who makes this mission possible. Your kindness and commitment make a lasting impact on the lives of our heroes. 🇺🇸💜 Learn more about Hides for Heroes at Hides for Heroes website to find drop-off locations and learn how you can support this incredible cause. Together, They are making a difference one hide at a time! 🦌✨

The Fremont community came together once again this holiday season to spread cheer and generosity through the annual Giving Tree event, led by the dedicated Kathy Krause. Although Kathy isn’t sure exactly how many years she’s been spearheading this heartwarming tradition, she believes it’s been at least 12—and this year was the biggest yet! Some of the many helpers seen here wrapping presents at Fremont Riverdeck In 2024, the Giving Tree supported 10 families , ensuring each one had what they needed to make their Christmas special. From groceries for a festive holiday meal to paper towels, toiletries, toys for the kids, and more, no detail was overlooked in bringing joy to these families during the holiday season. This incredible effort was made possible thanks to the generosity of community members who contributed gifts, supplies, and their time. More than 40 volunteers  gathered to wrap presents, turning the task into a festive celebration of giving and unity. The Group Wrapping the many gifts and presents for the family Kathy extends a heartfelt thank you to everyone who contributed, especially Lisa from Hotel Fremont and Bob from the Fremont Riverdeck, who graciously paid for refreshments for the hardworking volunteers, as well as Steve from The Bridge Bar for donating pizza and The Friends of Fremont for donating the space at Riverdeck to be set up for wrapping. All the local bar and restaurants and their employees who generously donated tips and time, also a special shoutout also goes to Kathy’s family, who have been by her side every step of the way, offering invaluable support to make the event a success! “This wouldn’t be possible without the amazing support of our community and my family,” Kathy shared, beaming with gratitude. Seen here, Kathy, Hailey, Scott, Krause, and Jordan and Trevor Wetzel As the gifts were wrapped and the families were supported, the Fremont Giving Tree reminds everyone of the true spirit of the holidays: kindness, generosity, and community. Here’s to another successful year and an even brighter 2025! #FremontGivingTree #HolidayJoy #CommunityLove #ThankYouFremont #WeyauwegaFremontNews

Get ready to celebrate the season with Live Music this weekend in Fremont that are sure to bring holiday cheer, great music, and memories! Bridge Bar ✨ Bridge Bar ✨ Saturday, Dec 21st - 🎅 Ugly Christmas Sweater Party With Dustin at 9 PM It’s time to dig out your tackiest holiday sweater and join the fun! Whether you're rocking reindeer antlers, twinkling lights, or your grandma's hand-knit masterpiece, this is the party to let your festive side shine. 🎸 Live music by Dustin Lee Music  will set the stage at 9pm! Grab your friends, enjoy some drinks, play some dice and let’s make this a night to remember! The BOATHOUSE, Fremont ✨ The BoatHouse ✨ 🎸 Friday Night:  Bryan Kimpel kicks off the weekend with live music to set the mood! 7pm 🎶 Saturday:  Don’t miss your chance to win big with three Joker drawings —tickets available all day! 1pm, 3pm, 5pm 🤠 Sunday:  Cowboy & Twombly (Harmonica Legend) are taking the stage with special guests for an afternoon of music, mayhem, and good times! 2pm 🍻 Monday Special Opening:  Doors open at 2 PM—get your spot early for the Packers game at 7:15 PM. Cheer on the green and gold with us! Make this weekend merry and bright with these festive events in Fremont. See their Facebook page for details! Grab your friends, your ugliest sweater, and holiday spirit, and join the fun! #FremontEvents #CowboyandFriends #FremontChamber #HolidayFun #LiveMusic #UglySweaterParty #TheBoathouse #BridgeBar