By Ryan Wilson
The Denmark News

Douglas A. Kobes, age 72 of Maribel, passed away peacefully at his home, following his long journey with cancer. He was born on November 17, 1953, to the late Joseph and Alice (Petersen) Kobes. Doug graduated from Denmark High School with the class of 1971. Following graduation, Doug joined the United States Marine Corps and served his nation from 1972 to 1974. On May 14, 1977, he married Sue Denor in Mishicot.

This weekend, a number of talented, local young people were sharing their skills and representing the Denmark community at the state level. On Friday and Saturday, the Denmark High School Dance Team traveled to La Crosse to compete in this year's Wisconsin Association of Cheer & Pom Coaches (WACPC) State Competition where they faced off against other top teams in Division 3 Hip-Hop.

For a decade and a half, it has been a Denmark destination for everything from family breakfasts, to lunches with friends, to wedding dinners and anything in between. Since opening its doors in the early months of 2011, DeGrand Family Restaurant has established itself as a premier local dining option as well as a staple of the community. This week, the eatery is celebrating their 15th anniversary with a community bash planned for Saturday night.

Last week, students and staff in the Denmark School District were forced "back in time" when a reported "cyber incident" caused the loss of internet access across all facilities. For five school days, teachers and their classes had to find ways to make do without this now-vital resource. The Denmark News spoke with staff, students and administration to learn more.

Last Tuesday, two Denmark businesses were recognized for their culinary expertise in crafting delicious products utilizing ingredients from our state. That night, Duck Creek Vineyard & Winery as well as the bakery & board co. were both featured artisans in this year's 11th Annual Brown County Taste of Wisconsin with Duck Creek claiming this year's "Best Beverage" title.

Moving along on our historical tour of Downtown Denmark: Past & Present, we come to a large two-story brick building that has been servicing the thirsts of the community for over a century. The structure, which is now home to DD's Saloon, has known many owners over the decades along with countless patrons and has remained a staple of the Denmark community throughout.

This weekend, while top athletes were competing for medals in Italy in a number of athletic categories, some local students were on the road attempting to earn medals of their own for business acumen.

On Saturday, DHS senior Barrett Czarneski made another impressive showing during this year’s American Legion District 9 Oratorical Scholarship Competition. After victories at the post and county level in December and January, Czarneski earned first place yet again and will now advance to the regional competition on March 28 in Ripon with a chance to qualify for the state finals to follow that same afternoon.