PESHTIGO – Community pride and appreciation were on full display on April 30 as the Peshtigo Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual awards banquet at Little River Country Club.
The event brought together local leaders, businesses, educators and residents to celebrate those who exemplify service, leadership, and commitment to the community.
The evening was organized by chamber president Karen Pluff, director Rhonda McClain, vice president Lisa Grabowski and director Julie Bloch.
The program opened with a message from the City of Peshtigo Mayor Katie Berman, who shared remarks recognizing the strength and unity of the community. Her full message is available on her official Facebook page. Chamber director Mike Fifarek served as the emcee, guiding attendees through a memorable program, while McClain delivered the evening’s invocation.
Guests enjoyed a buffet dinner followed by dessert, a cake generously donated by chamber member Lofaro’s Fresh Market.
In her honor, the chamber donated books to the PELC library, each bearing a commemorative photo sticker. Limberg’s family will also receive a certificate recognizing her lasting contributions to the community.
Throughout the evening, Fifarek introduced each award category, outlining the criteria and inviting presenters to recognize this year’s outstanding recipients.
The first award, Youth of the Year, was presented by Peshtigo teacher Amy Reed to Keegan Pew, a junior at Peshtigo High School and son of Todd and Carrie Wilken.
Pew was recognized for his leadership, character and positive impact among his peers. Amy stated that Keegan is one of the most polite and kind students at Peshtigo High School. He shows leadership without being boastful.
Since his freshman year, he has been a regular camp counselor at Camp Daniel spending weekends and even weeks working with people with disabilities. Keegan is involved in track, National Honor Society and Rho Kappa.
Next, the Community Enhancement Award was presented by Cindy Baur and director Rhonda McClain, who is also the president of the Peshtigo Lions Club. The award went to the Peshtigo Lions Club and honored the organization for their significant enhancement to the community through service, advocacy and volunteerism.
The Lions Club was recognized for its ongoing dedication to improving quality of life in Peshtigo through impactful service initiatives, including: the development of the Peshtigo Lions Recreation Area with the fishing pond; their Adopt a Highway road clean-up; their vision screening for students; their donations to the Kids Closet, SEED (Students Eat Every Day) program and adopt a family program at Peshtigo High School for Christmas; for their Lion Applion program where they have cleaned and fixed 3-D printers and other appliances; and for helping with the creation of the Mindful Room at PELC.
McClain said that “where there is a need, there is a Lion. We serve.”
The Educator of the Year Award followed, presented by Nicole Schingick to Rhonda Madsen of Peshtigo Elementary.
“It is with great honor and enthusiasm that I nominate Rhonda Madsen for the 2026 Educator of the Year. For 34 years, Rhonda has dedicated her career to teaching third grade at Peshtigo Elementary Learning Center, impacting approximately 800 students — and countless families — through her unwavering commitment, compassion and excellence in education. Her legacy is one of meaningful relationships, inspired learning and a lasting influence that extends far beyond the classroom,” she said.
“In closing, Rhonda’s career is a powerful example of what it means to be an outstanding educator. Her leadership, service and lasting impact make her exceptionally deserving of this recognition.
Honoring her as Educator of the Year would not only celebrate her incredible contributions but also acknowledge the profound difference she has made in the lives of so many.”
Madsen was honored for going above and beyond in her role, positively influencing students and contributing meaningfully to the broader school community.
The evening concluded with the Business of the Year Award, presented by Brock Bero to Megan (Bero) Mayse.
Mayse has been the owner and operator of Studio 170 in Peshtigo for the past 10 years.
Brock notes that she “strives to be a leader in the arts community for not only Peshtigo, but also the surrounding communities as well.
Meg has brought high quality artistic extracurriculars and experiences for children to this area. Meg has the ability to make every student feel welcome and has allowed those unable to afford the registration fee to attend the sessions for free making the studio a bright spot in that student’s life.”
She has also created a free studio closet to help clothe and shoe students in need within the studio to make sure the cost stays low and the families save money. Within the studio, the key measurement of success is smiles, happiness and confidence.
The award recognizes excellence in business practices and contributions to the local economy and community well-being. Studio 170 was applauded for its leadership, innovation and commitment to Peshtigo.
The chamber extended its gratitude to the evening’s sponsors — Rennes Group, Lofaro’s Fresh Market, Peshtigo Café, Little River Country Club, New Home Real Estate and Peshtigo Family Dental.
The annual banquet once again highlighted the spirit of Peshtigo — a community built on service, collaboration and a shared commitment to making a difference.
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