Longtime local journalist Heather Schaefer is the new editor of the Northwoods Star Journal, beginning with the March 12, 2025 issue.
Born and raised in Rhinelander, Schaefer has covered area news for 24 years, starting as a crime/courts and general assignment reporter before becoming an editor.
Schaefer has won a first-place Wisconsin Newspaper Association award for her coverage of the PFAS contamination in the Town of Stella and recognition for her crime/courts, local government, and education reporting.
“We are very excited to have Heather on staff,” said Tim Schreiber, Multi Media Channels (MMC) North Central Region general manager. “Her years of experience and dedication to keeping the community informed will serve her well in her new role at the Star Journal.”
Schaefer replaces former editor Eileen Persike, who retired in December 2024 after 19 years with the paper.
