Aspirus Physician Encourages Healthy Social Media Habits for Families this Back-to-School Season
“When adults are mindful of their own screen use, it sets the tone for the whole household.” WAUSAU, Wis. – August is National Back to School Month, and while students may not be in the classroom just yet, now is the time for families to start building routines that support a healthy transition into the school year. That includes taking a closer look at how kids and teens are using social media. “Just like everything, too much is a bad thing,” said Kimberly Frodl, MD, a Family Medicine
UW-Stevens Point at Marshfield presents “Fiddler on the Roof Jr.”
A youth adaption of an award-winning Broadway will take the stage at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point at Marshfield this August. “Fiddler on the Roof Jr.” will be staged in the Helen Connor Laird Theatre at UW-Stevens Point at Marshfield, 2000 W 5th St., Marshfield. Shows are at 7 p.m. on Thursday and Friday Aug. 14-15, with a matinee at 2 p.m. on Saturday, Aug. 16. Tickets are $15 and can be purchased at tickets.uwsp.edu or at the campus box office starting an hour prior to the show pending
Drowning Doesn’t Look Like You Think It Does
Aspirus trauma expert shares life-saving water safety tips ahead of World Drowning Prevention Day “The biggest thing we want to make people aware of is that drowning doesn't look like you think it does.” WOODRUFF, Wis. – As families head to lakes, rivers, and pools, a local trauma expert is reminding everyone that drowning is often fast, silent, and far more common than many realize. World Drowning Prevention Day, observed annually on July 25, highlights the urgent need for water safety
Aspirus Health Foundation Reflects on a Solid Year of Support in Portage County
STEVENS POINT, Wisc. - Over the past 12 months, Aspirus Health Foundation has approved grants from its Stevens Point/Plover area donor funds totaling more than $250,000 and touching lives across vital areas of care at Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital. Aspirus Health Foundation stewards more than two dozen donor-directed funds, continuing the long legacy of philanthropic efforts that support the facility and its programs. Donor dollars past and present continue to augment, wherever needed most, Aspirus
UWSP Carlsten Art Gallery hosts ‘Meet Your Mentors’ faculty show
A collection of faculty work is on display this summer at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Carlsten Art Gallery. “Meet Your Mentors,” featuring work of UW-Stevens Point faculty members, is on exhibit now through Saturday, Sep. 13. An artist reception will be held Thursday, Sep. 4. The gallery, located on the second floor of the Noel Fine Arts Center, is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are Tuesdays through Fridays from noon to 6 p.m. and Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The
For back-to-school shoppers, Shopping early leads to savings
Shoppers can find budget-friendly deals on school items at Goodwill North Central Wisconsin NORTH CENTRAL WISCONSIN—Across north central Wisconsin and beyond, back-to-school and back-to-college spending has begun. Out of concern for rising prices, two-thirds (67%) of back-to-school shoppers had already begun purchasing items for the upcoming school year as of early July, according to the annual survey by the National Retail Federation and Prosper Insights & Analytics. That’s up from 55% last year and
State Senator Patrick Testin Visits Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids Hospital and Clinics
Wisconsin Rapids, Wis. - Leaders from Aspirus Health recently hosted State Senator Patrick Testin on July 25 for a site visit to Aspirus Wisconsin Rapids Hospital and Clinics. “We were thrilled to share with Senator Testin the great work being done by our staff in Wisconsin Rapids,” said Chris Squire, President, Aspirus WI South & Southwest Divisions. “We were able to especially highlight our incredibly strong obstetrics and emergency services, including a tour through the Birthing Suites and Emergency
M3 Insurance Releases its Annual Employee Benefits Trend Report
MADISON, WI – M3 Insurance has released the 2025 edition of its annual employee benefits report, now reimagined as Momentum: An M3 Employee Benefits Trend Report. More than just a name change, Momentum represents a meaningful shift in focus, reflecting the evolving realities of today’s employee benefits landscape. For more than two decades, M3’s trend report has served as a trusted resource for employers, traditionally centered around plan design benchmarks and regional premium comparisons. But in
Stay Active, Not Injured: Expert Tips to Prevent Summer Knee Pain
PORTAGE, Wis. – From pickleball courts to wooded trails, summer is a season full of movement. That extra activity, though, can take a toll on your knees if you're not prepared. “Knee injuries are very common this time of year,” said Joseph Mueller, DO, orthopedic surgeon with Aspirus Health. “They’re often related to recreational activities or walking on uneven ground.” While strains and sprains are among the most common summer injuries, many can be avoided with a few simple habits. Dr. Mueller
Stevens Point Area YMCA Celebrates Community, Growth, and Leadership at Annual Board Meeting
STEVENS POINT, WI — On Wednesday, July 23, 2025, the Stevens Point Area YMCA hosted its Annual Board Meeting at the YMCA facility, bringing together staff, board members, donors, and community stakeholders to celebrate a year of progress and look ahead to a bright future. Attendees heard powerful YMCA impact stories, learned about the organization’s achievements over the past year, and were given a preview of strategic initiatives for the year ahead—including the exciting addition of
Food + Farm Exploration Center Hosts Free U-Pick Harvest Day on August 5, 2025
PLOVER, WI — Food + Farm Exploration Center invites the community to roll up their sleeves and enjoy the height of harvest season during its U‑Pick Harvest Day, happening Tuesday, August 5, 2025, from 5–7 PM. This free, family-friendly event offers a unique opportunity to experience agriculture up close by picking your own fresh produce right from Food + Farm Exploration Center’s demonstration fields. Guests will be able to harvest green beans, cucumbers, and several varieties of potatoes, all grown
World Lung Cancer Day: A quick scan could save your life
WAUSAU, Wis. – August 1 is World Lung Cancer Day, and Aspirus Health has one clear message for anyone who has ever been a heavy smoker: schedule a low dose CT scan. The fast, painless test can spot lung cancer years before symptoms appear—when it’s easiest to cure. “A low dose CT scan is quick, painless, and powerful,” says Christopher Peterson, MD, boardcertified oncologist at Aspirus Cancer Care. “It can find very small cancers on the lungs that otherwise wouldn’t have been detectable,” Peterson
Aspirus Health Expands Fruit and Vegetable Prescription Program
WAUSAU, Wis.–Residents of seven communities in the Aspirus Health service area now have additional access to fresh produce at their local farmers market thanks to this year’s expansion of the Aspirus Fruit and Vegetable Prescription (FVRx) Program. Aspirus FVRx was created as a medically based intervention to support Aspirus patients. From farm to table, the fresh produce at your local farmers market is one of the healthiest ways to get all your nutrients. The new additions to the Aspirus FVRx
Rehbein accepts Retail Training Manager position at Prevail Bank
Prevail Bank is thrilled to announce the promotion of Alycia Rehbein to Retail Training Manager, effective Aug 4. Alycia joined Prevail back in February this year and quickly made a positive impact on her team and her customers. With more than a decade of leadership experience, including several successful years as a Branch Manager at another financial institution, Alycia brings a wealth of knowledge, energy, and strategic insight into her new role. She has a proven track record of building impactful
Heatstroke Prevention: Tips Every Caregiver Should Know
“Cracking a window doesn’t lower the temperature in a vehicle as much as people think it will.” WAUSAU, Wis. – Hot summer days have already claimed the lives of at least 15 children this year in the United States due to heatstroke, often caused by being left unattended in cars. Aspirus Health strongly advises all caregivers to never leave children alone in a vehicle, even for a moment. If you see a child alone in a car, call 911 immediately. Heatstroke, also known as hyperthermia, is the
Breast Reduction Surgery Lifts Pain and Restores Comfort
“Many patients describe it as a literal weight lifted off their chest. They often wish they had done it years earlier.” WAUSAU, Wis. – For many women, breast reduction surgery is about more than appearance. It’s a life-changing procedure that addresses physical discomfort and improves quality of life for those living with chronic pain caused by disproportionately large breasts. Breast reduction surgery has seen an increase in demand nationwide. According to the American Society of Plastic
Uterine Fibroids are Treatable: What women should know during Fibroid Awareness Month
“Fibroids are the most common benign tumors of the female reproductive system.” WAUSAU, Wis. – Uterine fibroids are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus, and they’re more common than many people realize. Up to 80 percent of women will develop fibroids in their lifetime. “Fibroids are the most common benign tumors of the female reproductive system,” said Dr. Dennis McFadden, a Board-certified OB/Gyn at Aspirus OB/Gyn Associates and Aspirus Wausau Hospital Birthing Center.
Turquoise on Main 5 Year Birthday Celebration
Come celebrate 5 years with us Saturday, July 26th! Enjoy special pricing, drawings, fresh flower bar & and of course bubbles to celebrate!Special pricingFresh Flower BarDrawings Bubbles!Flowers from Gather Farm and FlowersJuly 26th, 2025 - 10:00AM to 2:00PM 1201 Main Street, Stevens Point, WI 54481
Goodwill NCW Winner of 2025 USA TODAY Top Workplaces Award
Menasha, Wisconsin—Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (NCW) is proud to announce that it has earned the prestigious 2025 USA TODAY Top Workplaces award. The award honors organizations with 150 or more employees that have created exceptional, people-first cultures. This year, more than 42,000 organizations were invited to participate. The winners are recognized for their commitment to fostering a workplace environment that values employee listening and engagement. The winners are determined by authentic
Itchy, Bumpy, Rashy: Your Summer Skin Guide
“Recognizing allergic reactions and understanding what’s triggering them is key to proper treatment and prevention.” DULUTH, Minn. – When the summer sun finally shows up in the Midwest, shedding layers and heading outside is only natural. But more time outdoors, and more exposed skin, can also raise the risk of hives, rashes, and other mysterious bumps. These uncomfortable issues can quickly take the fun out of a family hike or a day at the beach. “Being aware is the best thing you can do,”
UW-Stevens Point’s new undergraduate program blends technical and ethical education in AI
As artificial intelligence continues to redefine industries and everyday life, the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point is looking to take the next step towards preparing students for an evolving workforce. With the launch of the Bachelor of Science in Artificial Intelligence (AI) this fall, the program seeks to blend technical programming education with ethical awareness and practical application of AI. The program will prepare graduates to thrive in a fast, evolving field, where AI is not only a
Aspirus Highlights Growing Tick-Borne Threat - Powassan Virus Confirmed in Wisconsin
WOODRUFF, Wis. – A rare but potentially deadly tick-borne illness is making headlines in Wisconsin after health officials confirmed recent cases of Powassan virus. The virus, transmitted by the same blacklegged tick that spreads Lyme disease, has clinicians on alert and public health experts urging vigilance. Powassan virus is part of the flavivirus family, a group of viruses that includes more familiar names like West Nile, Zika, and Dengue. Unlike its mosquito-borne cousins, Powassan is transmitted
Aspirus Health Foundation Pledges $500,000 to Support Oral Health Services in Stevens Point
(STEVENS POINT, Wis.) – Aspirus Health Foundation has committed $500,000 over the next three years to support the expansion of oral health services at Noble Community Clinics, Stevens Point. The pledge will help equip 15 new dental operatories within Noble’s planned expanded dental facility, a critical component of the organization’s $18 million initiative to improve access to care for underserved residents in Portage County and surrounding areas. The funds are the result of donor-restricted
Prevail Bank invests a total of $22,250 in innovation and growth through CREATE Portage County
Prevail Bank recently contributed $5,000 to CREATE Portage County, bringing the bank’s total investment in the community development organization to $22,250. CREATE uses the arts, entrepreneurship, and culture as vital components for bringing people together and growing local businesses, ultimately solidifying its role as a leader in community development, revitalizing Portage County, and building a vibrant inclusive community. “We are proud to support CREATE Portage County,” said Nathan Quinnell,
Prevail Bank Shred Event Helps Families in Crisis with $1,190 Donation
Turning paper into something powerful, Prevail Bank’s Community Shred Day in Stevens Point raised $1,190 for CAP Services’ Family Crisis Center, supporting families in need throughout the area. Prevail Bank pledged to donate $1 for every pound of paper shredded, up to $1,000—and the community rose to the challenge, bringing in 1,500 pounds of documents to be safely destroyed and recycled. True to its pledge, Prevail Bank gifted $1,000; the public donated an additional $190. A special check presentation
Mathew Colemer Named to Chairman's Advisory Council
March 13th, 2025 – Mathew Colemer, AWMA, APMA, CRPC, a Private Wealth Advisor with StrongBridge Wealth Advisors, Ameriprise Financial Services, a private wealth advisory practice of Ameriprise Financial Services, LLC was recently named to the 2025 Chairman’s Advisory Council. Colemer qualified for the prestigious Chairman’s Advisory Council based on distinguished performance. He joins other top-ranked advisors to discuss current issues and business opportunities with Ameriprise Financial Chairman and CEO
Katie Jacobs Earns Distinguished Forbes Award
Katie Jacobs Honored As Best-in-State Women Wealth Advisor by Forbes March 20th, 2025– Katie Jacobs, CFP, APMA a Private Wealth Advisor with Ameriprise Financial, Inc, was named to the list of “Forbes Best-in-State Women Wealth Advisors” published by Forbes. The list recognizes financial advisors who have demonstrated high levels of ethical standards, professionalism, and success in the business. The rankings are based on data provided by thousands of the nation’s most productive advisors. Jacobs was
