Pirates take the stage at UWSP in ‘The Pirates of Penzance’
Set sail and witness an absurd mix of opera and comedy by the Department of Theatre and Dance at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point on Feb. 28-March 2 and 6-8. “The Pirates of Penzance,” by theatrical duo W.S. Gilbert and Arthur Sullivan, will be staged in Jenkins Theatre of the Noel Fine Arts Center, 1800 Portage St., Stevens Point. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday Feb. 28, Saturday, March 1 and Thursday through Saturday March 6-8, with matinees at 2 p.m. on Sunday, March 2, and Saturday, March
UW-Stevens Point Associate Professor Andy Moran appointed Music and Executive Director of Central Wi
UW-Stevens Point Associate Professor of Music and Director of Orchestras Andy Moran has been appointed by the Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra (CWSO) Board of Directors as its new Executive Director. Moran has been the Music Director of the CWSO since 2020, and he will continue serving in this role under the updated title of Music and Executive Director. “I am truly honored to be stepping into this new role with the CWSO,” Moran said. “Since moving to Wisconsin in 2016, I’ve seen first-hand the impact
Aspirus Promotes Early Heart Disease Detection with Coronary Calcium Score Scan
"It's quick, affordable, and highly effective at helping us determine heart disease risk in patients who may not have symptoms." WAUSAU, Wis. – Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, often developing silently before symptoms appear. In recognition of Heart Month, Aspirus Health is raising awareness about an advanced, non-invasive test, the coronary calcium score scan, which helps identify heart disease before symptoms arise. This quick and painless CT scan measures
CWSO Appoints New Executive Director
[STEVENS POINT, WI] – The Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra is pleased to announce that the Board of Directors has appointed Dr. Andy Moran as its Executive Director of the CWSO. Moran has been the Music Director of the Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra since 2020, and he will continue serving in this role under the updated title of Music and Executive Director.In speaking about his recently appointed position, Moran said, “I am truly honored to be stepping into this new role with the CWSO. Since
New York Times Featured Authors to do Book Launch in Stevens Point
LOCATION - Starry Night Cat Cafe - 1141 Clark Street, Stevens Point, WI 54481 TIME - February 27th, 6 pm - 8 pm Join us for the launch of Wisconsin authors Ruthie Knox and Annie Mare's newest novel, BIG NAME FAN, hosted at Starry Night Cat Cafe. Tickets are required for the event and come with one copy of the book. Ruthie Knox and Annie Mare are Wisconsin-based bestselling authors of more than a dozen bestselling novels between them, as well as the married co-authors of mysteries and queer romances
ODC CELEBRATES 60 YEARS OF CONNECTING PEOPLE & COMMUNITIES 1965-2025
Sixty years ago, in 1965, a small group of parents and supportive community leaders had the forethought and courage to look to the future in meeting the employment needs of people with disabilities. They believed that by forming partnerships with their communities, they could do great things. This small group of committed citizens helped to create the “South Wood County Sheltered Workshop” and the “Marshfield Rehabilitation Workshop” to provide employment opportunities for adults with disabilities. Just 5
UW-Stevens Point offering planetarium and laser light shows in March
Experience pop music, laser shows while exploring the known universe this March at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Allen F. Blocher Planetarium. Planetarium shows will be offered at 2 p.m. on Sundays in March. All regular public shows are around one hour long and include a 25-min presentation focusing on the current night sky of Central Wisconsin (bright stars, constellations, planets, etc.) All events are free and open to the public, but donations are appreciated and help continue these
51st Annual Stevens Point/Plover Area Festival of the Arts
About the Festival: Shop for art and meet the artists at the 51st annual Stevens Point Area Festival of the Arts is a juried art festival held on Sunday, April 6, 2025, at Artist & Fare and O’so Brewing Company in Plover, WI from 10am-4pm. We host 56 fine art artists from across the Midwest selected from over 140 applications. It is an opportunity to talk with the artists, learn about their work, and purchase unique one-of-a-kind pieces of art.Events: Our one-day festival is free to the public with ample
Wisconsin Rapids Job Center to Host Job Fair
Wisconsin Rapids WI - The Wisconsin Rapids Job Center will host a job fair on March 18, 2025, from 10:00 AM to 2:00 PM at 320 West Grand Avenue. The fair will feature a variety of employers from different industries including: Sand ValleySentryService First StaffingOpportunity Inc.Wood CountyDonaldsonSynergy HomecareLake ArrowheadPurple Basil CateringAuroraWysocki Family Farms and more to come! Those seeking new career opportunities are encouraged to attend.
Aspirus Emergency Department Nurse Reflects on Her Be the Match Experience
“You're giving someone a second chance at life, it makes you feel really good and it’s rewarding.” ANTIGO, Wis. – Observed every year on February 14, National Donor Day is a time to focus on all types of donations – organ, eye, tissue, blood, platelets and marrow. It’s a day designed to help save and heal more lives by sharing information about the importance of donation. As an Emergency Department (ED) Nurse at Aspirus Langlade Hospital, Kristie Falk exemplifies the spirit of selflessness and
UW-Stevens Point students tackle food truck association challenge in Case in Point competition
An experiential learning program in the UW Stevens Point Sentry School of Business and Economics returns, allowing students to use their business acumen and serve up winning ideas while undertaking a real-world consulting challenge.The 2025 Case in Point Business Solutions Competition will provide students with hands-on consulting experience, working in teams to develop innovative solutions for a local partner, the Central Wisconsin Food Truck Association (CWFTA). This year, five student teams coached by
America’s loneliness coach to speak at UW-Stevens Point
The Stevens Point community is welcome to gain emotional tools for navigating challenging, unpredictable and transitional situations as America’s loneliness coach visits the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point on Feb. 27. Carrie Sackett will present “We’re Doing Our Emotions All Wrong! A New Toolkit for the Whole Family” during a free community event. Discover new ways to communicate with and understand the people in their lives, whether it’s a spouse, partner, boss or child. The presentation will
Cherian Portz Joins ProjectWise Consulting as Senior Principal Consultant
[Wausau, WI - February 12, 2025] – ProjectWise Consulting is pleased to announce that Cherian Portz has joined the firm as Senior Principal Consultant. With over 30 years of experience, including more than a decade leading an Enterprise Project Management Office, Cherian specializes in driving system-wide programs and spearheading complex merger, acquisition and divestiture initiatives and Leadership Coaching. She excels in licensing, regulation, asset management, marketing, and communications, using
Aspirus Health Receives Approval for Conditional Use Permit to Build Hospital in Chippewa Falls
CHIPPEWA FALLS, Wis. – The Chippewa Falls Planning Commission has granted approval for the conditional use permit to Aspirus Health for the construction of a new hospital, following a public hearing held on Monday. This milestone marks a key step forward in the process of establishing a local hospital to meet the community’s health care needs. The approval helps pave the way for bringing accessible emergency and inpatient services to the residents of Chippewa Falls and beyond. Aspirus
WoodTrust Bank Announces New Board Member
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE February 13, 2025 Contact:Chad Kane, PresidentWoodTrust Bank715-423-7600 WoodTrust Bank Announces New Board Member Wisconsin Rapids, WI: WoodTrust Bank (“WoodTrust”), a leading provider of banking, trust, and investment management services in central and northern Wisconsin since 1891, is pleased to announce the appointment of Dan Kinsella to its board of directors. Mr. Kinsella replaces his father, Joe Kinsella, who recently retired from the WoodTrust Bank board of directors
UW-Stevens Point to host Black History Month event celebrating art, literature and music
A mural artist and business owner will share her experience building communities and promoting healing through art during Black History Month at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. UW-Stevens Point’s Diversity and College Access will host “Celebration of Cultural Expression: Art, Literature and Music” to honor Black History Month on Thursday, Feb. 20, from 4-8 p.m., in the Dreyfus University Center Laird Room and Lounge, 1015 Reserve St., Stevens Point. The event will feature keynote speaker Tia
The Hidden Heart Risk: How Even One Drink Can Trigger Atrial Fibrillation
“We used to think alcohol only caused heart problems with excessive drinking, but now we know that even small amounts can negatively impact AFib.” WAUSAU, Wis. – Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is the most common heart rhythm disorder, affecting millions of people. While many factors can contribute to AFib episodes, research shows that alcohol is a significant trigger—even in small amounts. Studies indicate that consuming just one drink can increase the likelihood of an AFib episode, sometimes doubling the
UW-Stevens Point to host former Congressmen in February
Are you interested in public service? Have you ever wondered what is it like to work in the U.S. Congress? Two former congressmen will speak on their experiences in a free community event at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point this month. Congress to Campus provides the opportunity for honest dialogue and civic education with former members of U.S. Congress from both major political parties. UW-Stevens Point’s College of Letters and Science will host a forum with former congressmen Peter Kostmayer
Aspirus Health Warns of Heart Risks Associated with Snow Shoveling
“Many people try to clear all the snow at once, especially after large storms, but it’s much safer to take your time and pace yourself.” WAUSAU, Wis. – As winter weather blankets the Upper Midwest, Aspirus Health is reminding residents of the potential dangers snow shoveling can pose to heart health, particularly for those with pre-existing conditions or who are not regularly active. “Shoveling snow or even using a snowblower can be a very strenuous physical activity,” explains Melissa Wendell, nurse
UWSP at Marshfield to host annual Marshfield Cultural Fair
The Marshfield Cultural Fair, a tradition of over two decades with exhibits, crafts, food and entertainment from around the world, returns to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point at Marshfield on Saturday, Feb. 22. It will be held throughout the campus from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. The fair will include performances in the Upper Commons and Helen Connor Laird Theatre, Music Magic, Main Street Conservatory of Dance – Marshfield, Wisconsin Country Style Dancers , Steel Drums with Kent Arnsbarger, Salsa
The Critical Role of Medication Management Before Surgery
“Medications can alter how your body works and increase your risk of complications during surgery.” WAUSAU, Wis. – Managing medications before surgery is a vital step to ensure patient safety and a smooth recovery. Certain medications can increase the risk of complications, such as excessive bleeding, blood clots, or unexpected reactions during the procedure. Understanding which medications to stop—or adjust—is a critical part of surgical preparation. “Medications can alter how your body works
Unlocking the Future of Manufacturing: Leveraging AI to Stay Competitive
I’m very excited to share with you an upcoming Lunch and Learn I’m hosting. Please consider attending and forward to anyone who is in or serves the manufacturing community.I recently attended this same presentation offered by WMC (Wisconsin Manufacturing and Commerce) and was so impressed I felt compelled to bring this to our local manufacturing community.The manufacturing industry is evolving rapidly, and businesses leveraging artificial intelligence are leading the charge. Don’t miss your chance to learn
Sports club continues love of cross-country skiing and community with expanded offerings for all sea
IOLA, Wis. - Have you ever been driving through the state and come upon a tall structure that looks like the most epic slide you have ever seen? And then you wonder, how do you attempt that thrill-seeking descent and who would want to? That epic slide, towering in the sky is actually a Nordic ski jump. The members of Iola Winter Sports Club answered that question for thrill-seekers over 100 years ago with the construction of their ski jumps. The club, located at E398 County Road MM in Iola, is home to
UW-Stevens Point emeritus professor tells his wildlife ecology journey in “Wildlifer”
Local author and emeritus professor of wildlife ecology at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Neil F. Payne has launched his latest book, “Wildlifer: Wisconsin Origin to Climate Change”. The compelling new work published by UW-Stevens Point’s Cornerstone Press explores Wisconsin’s wildlife profession’s beginning, habitat diversity and the vast importance wildlife ecosystem management relative to climate change. “Marvelous writing, and exciting coverage over many years,” said daughter of Aldo
High Blood Pressure: The Silent Threat Americans Searched for Most in 2024
“If blood pressure stays high, it can lead to serious complications.” WAUSAU, Wis. – In 2024, Americans turned to Google for answers to their health concerns, with “What causes high blood pressure?” among the most searched questions. Soliant Health, a health care job search site that analyzed 2024 Google search data, highlighted this as a top concern. This growing awareness reflects the connection between hypertension and serious conditions like heart disease, stroke, and chronic kidney
UW-Stevens Point offers staged readings of ‘A Cry of Players’ at all three campuses
A dramatization of the early life and loves of William Shakespeare will be shared by the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Department of Theatre and Dance Feb. 6-9, with staged readings of the play on the Marshfield, Stevens Point and Wausau campuses. “A Cry of Players,” written by American writer and essayist William Gibson, will be staged at UWSP at Wausau at 7:30 p.m., Thursday, Feb. 6; at UW-Stevens Point at 7:30 p.m., Friday, Feb. 7, and Saturday, Feb. 8, with matinee performances at 2 p.m. at
Contemporary art exhibit ‘Swept Over the Rug’ on display at UWSP
An installation by Wisconsin artists Michelle Grabner and Brad Killam is on display at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Carlsten Gallery. “Swept Over the Rug,” featuring contemporary artwork by Grabner and Killam, is on exhibit now through Friday, March 7. An opening reception will be held Thursday, Feb. 6 from 5-8 p.m. Grabner’s depiction of custodial implements memorializes janitorial labor, a concept that emerged from her artist-in-residency experience at Kohler Co. She transforms these
Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital Breast Care Center Receives Major Gift to Transform Patient Care
(Stevens Point, WI)- Aspirus Health Foundation recently received a generous gift that will enhance biopsy technology at the Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital-Breast Care Center.This innovative technology made possible thanks to a generous gift from Joe and Cindy Kinsella of Almond, Wisconsin will provide a more seamless and compassionate patient experience.“This opportunity and breast biopsy technology hit home for us,” Cindy Kinsella said. “When we met and talked about it, we just knew that this is something
Fundraising for trip to Concordia Language Villages
On Monday February 17th, Stevens Point Area Schools World Languages students will be fundraising for their weekend trip to Concordia Language Villages where they will participate in a fun, full-immersion camp to improve their Spanish or French skills. Fundraiser will be located at Pizza Ranch - 1300 Commerce Place, Plover, WI 54467. Discount cards are available for purchase at $10 each starting February 10th and at door.
Seasonal Affective Disorder: Finding Light in the Winter Months
“Even small, manageable steps can help us find moments of joy and connection.” STEVENS POINT, Wis. – Winter can be a challenging time for many, as shorter days and colder weather often bring more than just a chill in the air. For some individuals, these seasonal changes may trigger Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), a form of depression that occurs during the darker months of the year. “SAD can deplete our energy and affect our mood, leading to a cycle where we engage less in activities we enjoy,
UWSP Graduate researcher takes conservation to new heights with drone technology
Amanda Griswold, a graduate student in the College of Natural Resources at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, is using drones equipped with thermal cameras to transform how biologists monitor waterfowl populations and protect critical habitats. Griswold’s research, guided by her adviser, Assistant Professor Ben Sedinger, explores how uncrewed aerial systems can improve waterfowl conservation efforts. Sedinger, the Kennedy-Grohne Chair in Waterfowl and Wetlands Conservation, provided mentorship
UWSP to host conference watch party for childhood professionals
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point's School of Education will host a free watch party for the Raising Wisconsin's Children Conference on Jan. 28. The event will take place from 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 28 in the Dreyfus University Center Theater and is hosted by the UW-Stevens Point School of Education. Early childhood professionals, aspiring teachers and anyone working with children are welcome to attend. The Raising Wisconsin’s Children Conference is an online learning event designed
CWSO's 76th Season Concert
[STEVENS POINT, WI] – The Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra is pleased to celebrate Valentine’s Day weekend with their concert BEETHOVEN’s FIFTH on February 15th at Sentry Theater.The CWSO will perform their first concert of 2025 at Sentry Theater on Saturday, February 15th, at 7:30 pm. This will be the third concert of the 76th Season and will feature “Overture No. 1” by Louise Farrenc, “Variations on a Theme by Haydn” by Johannes Brahms, “Piano Concert in A Minor, Movement I” by Edvard Grieg, and the
Enjoy music concerts at UW-Stevens Point in February
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is hosting a variety of music concerts on its campuses in Stevens Point and Marshfield this month. UW-Stevens Point concerts will begin at 7:30 p.m. at the Noel Fine Arts Center Michelsen Hall, 1800 Portage Street, Stevens Point. Tickets are $17 for the general public, $15 for seniors (62+), $10 for youth (under 18) and UWSP employees. Events are ticketed unless noted otherwise. Tickets are available for purchase online, at the Information and Tickets desk in the
The Stevens Point Area YMCA is hosting their Father Daughter Dance!
Enjoy a special night of dancing with the ones you love at the Stevens Point Area YMCA Father Daughter Dance happening Saturday, February 8th! Located at the Stevens Point Area YMCA, the dance will take place from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM in the Y gym. This event is open to all community members, regardless of YMCA membership status, with registration and payment. Fees for the dance are $15 per person for Y members and $18 per person for the general public. Participants will enjoy a dinner followed by the dance,
Aspirus Announces Transformative Expansion to Elevate Critical Care Across the Region Aspirus Wausau Hospital to Add New Beds, Advanced Technology, and Expanded Facilities
“It’s a transformative initiative—not just for Aspirus Wausau Hospital, but for our entire health care system.” WAUSAU, Wis. – Aspirus Wausau Hospital is embarking on a groundbreaking expansion designed to meet growing critical care needs and position the hospital as a destination for complex, specialized care. This multi-phase project, scheduled to begin in early 2025, underscores Aspirus’ commitment to elevating health care standards for the communities it serves. “This expansion positions Aspirus
Keeping Your Head in the Game: Concussion Safety for Winter Sports
“Understanding the risks, recognizing symptoms, and knowing what to do if you suspect a concussion can make a big difference.” DULUTH, Minn. – Winter sports are a great way to embrace the season, but they come with unique risks—one of the most common being traumatic brain injuries (TBI), particularly concussions. “In sports like hockey, skiing, and snowboarding, you’re moving fast, and concussions happen more often than people realize,” said Dr. Joseph Benert, a Sports Medicine Physician at
UW-Stevens Point to offer speaker series blending arts and culture with conservation
Discover the relationship between art and wetland habitats with the Wisconsin Center for Wildlife at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. “The Art of Waterbird and Wetland Management” speaker series will begin Thursday, Jan. 30, featuring talks from seven land management and creative naturalist professionals. The series will be held weekly on Thursday nights from 5-6 p.m. in Room 170 of the UW-Stevens Point Trainer Natural Resources Building, and via livestream on the College of Natural Resources
Deml & Scheunemann Reelected to Prevail Mutual Holdings, Inc. Board
Prevail Bank is pleased to announce that Jeannie Deml, President & CEO of Enerquip Thermal Solutions (Medford), and Mark Scheunemann, Certified Public Accountant for Legacy Accounting (Stevens Point), were voted in by membership to continue in their roles as Board Directors of Prevail Mutual Holdings, Inc. for the next three years. The Annual Meeting of Prevail Mutual Holdings, Inc. took place January 15 where Randy Zietlow, Inspector of the Election, confirmed that directors Deml and Scheunemann were
Antibiotic Resistance: A Growing Threat to Public Health November 18-24 is U.S. Antibiotic Awareness
“We’re constantly learning about new infections that are becoming harder and harder to treat, and the drugs that we do have aren't working anymore." WAUSAU, Wis. – Every year, over 2.8 million people in the U.S. contract infections due to antibiotic resistance, resulting in more than 35,000 deaths.During U.S. Antibiotic Awareness Week, Aspirus Health is drawing attention to the escalating crisis of antibiotic resistance — a global public health threat that is putting the effectiveness of antibiotics
Julie Strenn Receives Diehard Advocate Award
Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, November 18th, 2024 – Julie Strenn, President & CEO of Opportunity Development Centers, INC. (ODC) received a state-wide recognized award, The Diehard Advocate Award at The 2024 Wisconsin Self-Determination Conference held by The Wisconsin Board for People with Developmental Disabilities (WBPDD). This award recognizes someone who goes above and beyond to improve the lives of individuals with disabilities. Only four Diehard Advocate Award winners are chosen annually at the
Stevens Point Optimist Club Scholarships Now Available
STEVENS POINT, WI—The Stevens Point Noon Optimist Club is now accepting applications for 2025 Optimist Scholarships, administered by the Stevens Point Noon Optimist Club. Up to $3,000 in scholarship money will be awarded in April. Students must be a graduating high school senior who currently live in Portage County and be accepted to an accredited higher education institution as a full-time student, to have their application considered. The Stevens Point Noon Optimist Club was chartered in 1961 as a
Survey: Money Worries Weigh on America’s Teens; Education Key Path to Financial Wellness
Survey: Money Worries Weigh on America’s Teens; Education Key Path to Financial Wellness (Stevens Point, Wis.) – New research by Junior Achievement USA and Citizens shows that money worries are a big concern for America’s young people. A survey of 1,000 teens between 13 and 18 by Wakefield Research shows that 78 percent are currently stressed out about money while 65 percent of teens believe their future happiness will be based on how much money they make. Additionally, 74 percent of teens see their
