Museum prepares to host Collection Crawl open to public
Explore the teaching and research collections at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point as part of the Olson Museum of Natural History 2024 Collection Crawl next month. The event will be held from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Saturday, April 6, beginning and ending at the Olson Museum of Natural History, 2001 Fourth Ave., Stevens Point. It is free and open to all ages. Participants may explore the collections across three campus academic buildings, collecting a stamp on their passport at each site. Completed
Eclipse viewing and planetarium shows at UW-Stevens Point in April
Journey to the sun and watch a solar eclipse this April at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. A partial solar eclipse will pass over UW-Stevens Point on Monday, April 8. A free viewing session of this partial eclipse will be held that day for students and local community at Colman Field, located on the corner of Maria Street and Reserve Street. Viewing will start around 12:50 p.m. and will follow the partial eclipse for its whole duration until about 3:20 p.m., weather permitting. Free street
Aspirus Merrill Hospital Embarks on a $40 Million Renovation and Expansion Project
WAUSAU, Wis. – Aspirus is proud to announce a transformative $40 million renovation and expansion project at Aspirus Merrill Hospital. This initiative underscores Aspirus' dedication to addressing the growing health care needs in Merrill and the surrounding areas. The project is scheduled to start this summer and it will greatly improve efficiency, access and the patient experience. “The health care landscape has encountered unprecedented challenges over the past four years, exerting immense pressure
Are you at risk for Prediabetes or Diabetes? March 26 is Diabetes Alert Day
Multimedia clips for download and public use Full InterviewFull Interview (Audio Only)BrollSocial Media Clip Please use Aspirus social tags: @AspirusHealth (Facebook, X, Instagram) “If we don't catch it early or manage it properly, it can progress into Type 2 diabetes.” THORP, Wis. – According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 133 million people in the U.S. have diabetes or prediabetes. Of those adults, one in five did not even know they had the condition.
Girl Scouts Donate Gift Baskets to Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital Birth Center
STEVENS POINT, Wis. – Area Girl Scouts recently delivered gift baskets to Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital. The Scouts requested the baskets be given to baby girls born in the hospital’s birth center in honor of Girl Scout Week, which was March 10-16. Sixteen of the baskets were donated by Troop 6260 - one for each member. The other two baskets were donated by Troop 6289 and Troop 6229. The baskets contained bibs, soaps, books, stuffed animals, diapers, pacifiers, quilts, afghans, and more. Aspirus
From Injury Prevention to Recovery: Athletic Trainers Offer Comprehensive Care for Active Lifestyles
“We are there to make sure that athletes get back to their sport as soon as they can.” WAUSAU, Wis. – March is more than just the transition from winter to spring; it's also Athletic Training Month, a time to recognize the invaluable contributions of the athletic trainers throughout the Aspirus Health system. From preventing injuries through comprehensive conditioning programs to offering immediate care on the field, their dedication ensures athletes of all levels can perform at their best while
UW-Stevens Point news: UW-Stevens Point offering online series on prescribed fire forest management
Learn how prescribed fire can be used as a tool to benefit forest ecosystems and restore the environment as the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Wisconsin Forestry Center continues an online speaker series on prescribed fire forest management. Offered free of charge, the year-long webinar series, “Prescribed Fire for Forest Management,” is held monthly from 8:30-10 a.m. on select Wednesdays through October. Presentations will be available for viewing online via Zoom. Registration is required. The
Authentic Identities Expo Celebrates Diversity and Fosters Understanding
[Stevens Point, WI] – [March 21, 2024] – CAP Services Mental Health Navigation and Portage County Division of Public Health is proud to host the Authentic Identities Expo, a vibrant event celebrating diversity and fostering understanding among youth, families, educators, and communities. Taking place on Tuesday, March 26th from 5:00 PM to 7:30 PM at UWSP Dreyfus Center, the Expo aims to shape a future of acceptance and celebration for all.A Celebration of UniquenessThe Authentic Identities Expo offers a
Staying safe in the cold: Aspirus Health shares cold weather injury prevention tips
“Cold-related injuries can range from frostbite, frostnip, all the way up to hypothermia, where the body’s not able to produce heat fast enough to keep it warm to survive.” UPPER MICHIGAN, Mich. – As temperatures begin to fall again, it’s important to raise awareness about cold weather injury prevention. Exposure to cold weather can lead to various health risks, including frostbite, hypothermia and other cold-related injuries. “Prevention is key,” says Bryan Judge, MD, Aspirus Emergency Medicine
Building a Healthy Baby Aspirus Offers Free Prenatal Nutrition Class
WISCONSIN RAPIDS – What you eat during pregnancy really does matter. That’s why Aspirus Health is pleased to offer “Building a Healthy Baby,” a free prenatal nutrition class. Aspirus Registered Dietitians Becki White and Karrie Benda will discuss topics including morning sickness, constipation, anemia and iron, hydration options, beating fatigue, safe amounts of caffeine, herbal teas to avoid, vitamins and minerals, heartburn and indigestion, snack ideas, and more. The class will be held Tuesday,
UW-Stevens Point prepares for ‘Trivia 54: Very Superstitious’
The world famous 54-hour trivia contest is set for its 54th year at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s student-run radio station 90FM WWSP as it hosts “Trivia 54: Very Superstitious” April 12-14. The world’s largest trivia contest 2024 theme poses “an exciting twist that is leaving everyone in anticipation,” said Dave Coulthurst, 90FM trivia coordinator. Trivia has been offered from the 90FM WWSP headquarters at UW-Stevens Point’s Communication Arts Center, 1101 Reserve St., Stevens Point,
Trends in Drug and Alcohol Abuse and the Impact on Young People
“Having an open dialogue and fostering supportive environments can help them feel safe in confiding in you when they need help, instead of resorting to drugs and alcohol." WAUSAU, Wis. – As society evolves, so do the patterns of substance use among young adults. One notable trend observed by Saba Khan, DO, a Family Medicine Resident Physician at Aspirus Wausau Family Medicine, is the rising prevalence of marijuana and nicotine vaping among young people. According to the Wisconsin Department of
DigiCOPY Announces 100% Employee-Owned Through an Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP)
(Stevens Point, WI-March 18, 2024) – DigiCOPY is proud to announce its transition to a 100% employee-owned company through the sale to the DigiCOPY Employee Stock Ownership Plan (ESOP). The announcement was made to all employees of the company on March 18th. DigiCOPY has Central Wisconsin locations in Stevens Point and Wausau.With an ESOP ownership structure, the company provides stock ownership at no cost to employees. As the company’s value – its stock – grows, employee accounts grow in value. ESOP plans,
Film Screening - Shot In The Arm (SITA) Movie Showing Invite!
Community Leaders! CAP Services, Inc. is pleased to invite you to attend our special event. We will be holding a three-hour educational session with a film screening and Q & A, resource fair, and vaccination clinic here in Portage County. The film SHOT IN THE ARM began as an investigation into the 2019 global measles epidemic, documenting public health officials as well as people against vaccines... And then Covid-19 happened. SHOT IN THE ARM reaches hearts and minds in a way that mere data
Addressing the Unique Health Care Needs of the LGBTQ+ Community
“We need to create environments of acceptance and understanding where LGBTQ+ individuals feel safe to seek the care they need.” AMHERST, Wis. – LGBTQ Health Awareness Week serves as a poignant reminder of the unique challenges encountered by the LGBTQ+ community in accessing health care. From March 18 to 22, health care professionals, activists, and organizations come together to raise awareness and advocate for inclusivity. At Aspirus Health, Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner Sam Markert emphasizes
Altmann Construction Co. Inc. recognized for construction excellence
MADISON, WI – Altmann Construction Company, Inc. is being recognized for excellence in construction by Associated Builders and Contractors (ABC) of Wisconsin for the addition at Matalco, Inc. ABC honored Altmann Construction Co. at the Projects of Distinction Excellence in Construction Awards Banquet recently. The addition warehouses high quality scrap material, which was stored outdoors, to be melted down to produce aluminum billets. MADISON, WI – Addition to Matalco, Inc. is being recognized as
Making Healthy Choices when Dining Out: Aspirus to Host Adult Diabetes Support Group
WISCONSIN RAPIDS – For people with diabetes, navigating restaurant menus can be confusing. It can be difficult to choose delicious food that will not send your blood sugar through the roof. “Making Healthy Choices when Dining Out,” is the topic for the spring Adult Diabetes Support Group meeting hosted by Aspirus Health. Aspirus Registered Dietitians Becki White and Karrie Benda will share tips and tricks to help you make wise, yet tasty food choices next time you eat out. The meeting will be held
Heart of Wisconsin Hosts 76th Annual Awards
Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce Hosts 76th Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet Over 230 leaders gathered to celebrate the Heart of Wisconsin area’s business community’s successes. WISCONISN RAPIDS, WI – The Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce welcomed its Members to the Ridges Golf Course & Banquet Facility for its 76th Annual Meeting & Awards Banquet on March 6th, 2024 to celebrate this year’s seven award winners that included; Small Business of the Year, Large Business of the Year, Innovative
Family Nurse Practitioner Joins Aspirus Stevens Point Clinic
STEVENS POINT, WI – Aspirus Stevens Point Clinic-Hoover Road is pleased to welcome Lindsay Rutz, APNP. As a family nurse practitioner, Lindsay cares for patients of all ages and takes a special interest in managing acute and chronic conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia, anxiety, and depression. She enjoys getting to know her patients in order to help them improve their health. Prior to becoming a family nurse practitioner, Lindsay cared for hospitalized patients as a registered
Colorectal Cancer Rates Continue to Climb in Young Adults: Colonoscopy recommended by age 45 March i
WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. – Incidence rates of colorectal cancer continue to climb in young adults, according to a recent report published by Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology. The American Cancer Society (ACS) further found that younger adults are first discovering their colorectal cancer in advanced stages. Many young people are discovering life-threatening advanced colorectal cancer that could have been prevented with earlier detection. Renee Schessler, PA-C, Gastroenterology with Aspirus
Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital’s Breast Care Center Designated as Certified Quality Breast Center
STEVENS POINT, WI – Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital’s breast care center recently achieved redesignation as a Certified Quality Breast Center by the National Consortium of Breast Centers. The designation is effective for one year and recognizes centers that achieve quality performance and make a vigorous voluntary effort to provide the best patient care possible. Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital’s breast care center provides everything patients need in one convenient location. The center’s nurse
Plover-Whiting Students Donate Handmade Blankets for Newborns
STEVENS POINT, WI – Thanks to area students, 50 newborns will be going home from Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital's birth center snuggled in handmade blankets. The Student Council at Plover-Whiting Elementary School wanted to do something special for new mothers. With the help of the school's 6th grade classes, they made 50 fleece tie blankets. The cleaned, packaged blankets are now being sent home with each newborn delivered at Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital. According to Student Council Advisor
Patient Shares Healing Journey with Aspirus Pulmonary Rehabilitation Program
“This program makes you stronger, helps you maintain your weight, and is just overall amazing.” STEVENS POINT, Wis. – Pulmonary Rehabilitation Week, initiated by the American Association of Cardiovascular and Pulmonary Rehabilitation (AACVPR), aims to educate the community about the role of pulmonary rehabilitation in enhancing the quality of life of individuals with chronic lung disease. This year’s theme, “Breathe Easy, Live Freely,” honors individuals who struggle to overcome shortness of breath
Open house – Earth Day event
In anticipation of Earth Day, we are welcoming the community to our facility at: Express Recycling Solutions Inc. 2220 36 St. N. Wisconsin Rapids, Wi 54494Saturday, April 6th 12pm until 2pm Serving the communities surrounding the Wisconsin Rapids and Stevens Point; we recycle on a yearly basis an average of: 500000 pounds of aluminum 1200 tons of paper 180 tons of plastic E-scrap (over 50,000 pounds of tv’s) We are providing a tour of our facility at 2220 36 St. N. along with hot dogs and some
From Plate to Purpose: Aspirus Health Recognizes National Nutrition Month
“By supporting local farmers and understanding our food's journey, we can make better choices for ourselves and the planet.” UPPER MICHIGAN, Mich. – National Nutrition Month serves as a time to acknowledge the journey toward healthier eating habits. This year's theme, "Beyond the Table," encourages us to think about where our food comes from and how it affects our bodies. "We want to know where our food is sourced from, how it's grown, and how it gets to our plate,” says Beth Cook, Aspirus
Job skills open ‘A World of Opportunities’ for people with disabilities through Goodwill NCW’s emplo
MENASHA, WI – This March’s National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month theme promoted by the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities is A World of Opportunities, which aligns with the belief behind Goodwill’s mission that everyone deserves the opportunity to thrive through the power of work. As one of more than 150 members of the international Goodwill movement, Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (NCW) offers employment services to those who are underserved, underrepresented
Navigating Daylight Saving Time and Emphasizing the Importance of Sleep Health
UPPER MICHIGAN, Mich. – As daylight saving time approaches on Sunday, March 10, it’s important to recognize the significant impact that even a one-hour change can have on our sleep patterns and overall health. The adjustment period can lead to increased irritability, sluggishness, and a general feeling of being unwell, underscoring the importance of maintaining a stable sleep schedule. In early March, as we shift from Standard Time to Daylight Saving Time, research has shown that people tend to lose
Schmeeckle Reserve offers nature programs at UW-Stevens Point in March
Explore the wonders of nature at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Schmeeckle Reserve this March. Family Nature Programs are free, open to the public and led by UW-Stevens Point students studying environmental education and interpretation . Be prepared to go outside and dress for the weather. Meet at the Visitor Center, 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, unless otherwise noted. The following programs will be offered in March: “Sounds of Schmeeckle,” Friday, March 8, 5-6 p.m. Listen
CWSO partners with Carnegie Hall for Education Concerts in Central WI
[STEVENS POINT, WI] – The Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra is pleased to announce the return of the Dorothy Vetter Memorial Education Concerts at Sentry Theater on March 13th this year. Carnegie Hall’s Weil Music Link Up Program is for students in grades 3rd-5th and allows them an opportunity to hear an orchestra and participate by singing or playing along. The broader goal of the Education Concerts is to encourage and inspire students to participate in instrumental music programs at their schools.
Aspirus Amherst Clinic Welcomes Sam Markert, APRN
AMHERST, WI – Aspirus Amherst Clinic welcomes Sam Markert, APRN. Sam serves the Amherst community as a full-time Family Medicine Nurse Practitioner. He cares for all ages and is accepting new patients. Sam takes a special interest in men’s health, women’s health, pediatric health, LGBTQIA+ health, addiction medicine, and preventive medicine. Sam earned a bachelor of science in nursing degree from Lewis University in Romeoville, IL, and a master of science in nursing degree from Concordia University in
Emergency medicine physician and FAA medical examiner starts at Stevens Point hospital
Dr. Randal Wojciehoski joined the emergency department at Marshfield Medical Center-River Region at Stevens Point in late 2023. He grew up in Stevens Point and was trained at Marshfield Clinic Health System in the late 1980s and early 1990s. “I was always fascinated by medicine and caring for people,” said Dr. Wojciehoski. “I had great respect for the physicians in my hometown of Stevens Point and wanted to emulate their behavior, professionalism, and dedication.” Dr. Wojciehoski became a Doctor of
St. Luke’s Completes Affiliation with Aspirus
Leaders to Hold News Conference Today When: 11 am on Friday, March 1, 2024 Where: St. Luke’s, 915 E. First Street, 1 East Lobby (Enter at corner of 10th Ave. E. & First St.) March 1, 2024 — DULUTH, Minn. — St. Luke’s, based in Duluth, Minnesota, has officially completed its affiliation with Wausau, Wisconsin-based Aspirus Health. The expanded health system now operates 19 hospitals and 130 outpatient locations with nearly 14,000 team members, including 1,300 employed physicians and advanced practice
Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital Birth Center Hosts Pregnancy Expo
STEVENS POINT, WI – All expecting women, along with their support persons and family members, are invited to a Pregnancy Expo at Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital. Attendees will: Learn about important topicsDiscover community resourcesExperience interactive displaysTour the Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital birth center Hosted by the hospital’s birth center team, the Pregnancy Expo will be held Wednesday, April 3, from 6 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the cafeteria of Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital, 900 Illinois Avenue.
Aspirus Gynecologist: Women don’t have to live with chronic pelvic pain
"Regardless of age, our goal is to provide comprehensive care that addresses not only the physical symptoms of endometriosis but also the emotional and psychological aspects of living with a chronic condition." WAUSAU, Wis. – Endometriosis is a prevalent but often misunderstood condition that affects millions of women worldwide. It is characterized by the presence of endometrial-like tissue outside the uterus, leading to a range of symptoms and challenges for those affected. In honor of Endometriosis
UW-Stevens Point continues lecture series on sustainable and resilient communities
The third segment of a lecture series about the sustainability and resiliency impacting Wisconsin communities will be offered in March through the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. The lecture, “Navigating Solar Energy Deployment in the Urban/Rural Divide,” presented by Brian Ross, vice president of renewable energy at Great Plains Institute, will be held at 6:30 p.m., Tuesday, March 12, at the Portage County Public Library Pinery Room. The event will also be live streamed. “Sustainable and
Addressing Youth Mental Health with Art
“We’re leveraging the power of art to facilitate healing and dialogue around mental health by creating a mural about mental health.” WAUSAU, Wis. – Youth mental health is a critical issue that often goes unaddressed or stigmatized, despite its prevalence and impact on individuals and communities. World Teen Mental Wellness Day, observed annually on March 2, provides an opportunity to amplify the conversation on youth mental health and advocate for greater resources and support systems. “We can