UW-Stevens Point announces new chief of Police and Security Services
A veteran law enforcement officer has been named the new chief of Police and Security Services at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Chief Michele Haywood began her new role on Jan. 6. As this is a sworn law enforcement management position, she will be responsible for the leadership, planning, direction, operations and management of the University Police and Security Services, Emergency Management and the Parking Services units. She will report to Vice Chancellor of Business Affairs Pratima
Advancing Healthcare Education Through Innovation - Aspirus and NTC Collaborate to Improve Healthcare Education
“With immersive reality, we can create scenarios students might not encounter during traditional training.” WAUSAU, Wis. – Aspirus and North Central Technical College (NTC) are working together to bring immersive reality technology into healthcare education. This partnership is giving students a chance to experience clinical scenarios like never before, helping them feel more prepared for real-world challenges. NTC’s new Simulation Center features an immersive room funded by the Health 4.0
UW-Stevens Point at Marshfield presents the musical “Godspell”
See the masterful retelling of the beloved musical “Godspell” at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Jan. 31-Feb. 6 “Godspell”, written by award-winning composer and lyricist Stephen Schwartz, will be staged in the Helen Connor Laird Theatre, 2000 W 5th St., Marshfield. Show are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, Jan. 31 and Feb. 1 and Thursday, Feb. 6, with a matinee at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Feb. 2. Under the skilled direction of director Donna Thompson, this updated version of “Godspell” displays
Aspirus Health Recognizes Law Enforcement as Vital Partners in Community Health and Safety
“Often, they’re here for positive reasons, helping keep our staff and patients safe.” WAUSAU, Wis. – National Law Enforcement Appreciation Day, observed on January 9, offers an opportunity to celebrate the invaluable contributions law enforcement officers make to community health and safety. At Aspirus Wausau Hospital (AWH), these partnerships play a key role in ensuring patients receive the care they need in a safe and supportive environment. “It’s very common for us to have police officers in
Sanford Health and Marshfield Clinic Health System complete merger
Sanford Health, the largest rural health system in the U.S., headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, and Marshfield Clinic Health System, have completed their merger and are now one nonprofit integrated health system operating as Sanford Health, marking the beginning of a new chapter for the future of rural health care. “Today's historic milestone paves the way for us to advance world-class care across the rural Midwest and accelerate vital investments in the communities we have the privilege of
Aspirus Health Announces the Top Baby Names of 2024
WAUSAU, Wis. – Aspirus Health is excited to announce the top baby names of 2024 as chosen by families across our health system (excluding Aspirus St. Luke’s). This year, the names Henry and Evelyn topped the list for boys and girls, reflecting timeless and elegant choices by parents in our community. Out of a total of 2,911 live births at Aspirus facilities during the 2024 calendar year, 1,427 were baby girls. Top Boys’ Names of 2024: Henry – 47 Oliver – 29 Liam – 28 Top Girls’
M3 Insurance Expands into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula
ESCANABA, MI – M3 Insurance, a leading provider of insurance, risk management, and employee benefits solutions, is proud to announce its expansion into Michigan’s Upper Peninsula (U.P) with the opening of a new office in Escanaba. The expansion reflects M3’s ongoing mission to grow its footprint while staying true to its core values: a focus on people, innovative solutions, and a deep connection to the communities it serves. The talented individuals bring a wealth of experience, local knowledge, and a
Aspirus Health Marks Importance of Life Saving Month through Community Partnerships - Aspirus Health Highlights National Blood Donor Month
"We always have a ready supply, so if there is an emergency, we don’t have to wait for it to come from hours away.” DULUTH, MN. – Every two seconds someone in the United States needs blood or platelets. Findings like that from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention are why it’s so important for Aspirus Health to partner with organizations like Memorial Blood Centers in Duluth and the other communities it serves. The demand for blood donors is constant. Patients can need a blood
Travel Smart This Holiday Season: Tips for Managing Your Medications
“Please review your medications before your trip to ensure you have enough supply to last the whole trip.” WAUSAU, Wis. – The holiday season is a time for family, friends, and travel. As you pack your bags to visit loved ones, don’t forget to take extra care with your medications. Whether traveling to a snowy retreat or a sunny getaway, proper preparation can help you stay healthy during the holidays. Aspirus Pharmacy Resident Rebecca Thao offers helpful advice for managing medications while on the
Shovel snow the right way: Tips for safe snow removal
“Ideally we want to keep the back straight so we're not putting a lot of stress and strain on the back and utilizing the bigger muscles in your legs.” MEDFORD, Wis. – It's winter, and you know what that means: snow. And while it may be pretty to look at, snow can literally be a pain to shovel. Every year, thousands of Americans are treated at hospital emergency departments, doctor's offices and clinics for injuries sustained while shoveling snow. Removing snow can be especially hard on back, shoulder
Students across Wisconsin helping the DNR to repopulate forests
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s LEAF – Wisconsin’s K-12 Forestry Education Program and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR) - Division of Forestry’s Reforestation Program have been collaborating to get Wisconsin’s School Forests more involved in tree seed collection. LEAF and the DNR saw an opportunity to encourage tree seed collection in school forests as a way to create a fun and meaningful educational opportunity as well as a way to ramp up for the school forest program’s
Stay Ahead of Respiratory Virus Season: Critical Tips for People with Diabetes
“People with diabetes are at higher risk of more frequent or severe infections, including common respiratory viruses like influenza, COVID-19, and RSV.” WAUSAU, Wis. – Respiratory virus season presents added risks for everyone, but individuals with diabetes face significantly greater risks. Diabetes weakens the immune system and disrupts blood sugar regulation, making it harder to fight infections. “People with diabetes are at higher risk of more frequent or severe infections, including common
Portage County Holiday Basket Project Receives $842
The Portage County Holiday Basket Project, through Operation Bootstrap, received $842 this holiday season through Prevail Bank’s Holiday Matching Funds campaign. Monetary donations were accepted by the public (Nov 12-Dec 6) and then doubled by Prevail Bank. Prevail Bank’s contribution to the $842 total was $371. (A $100 donation was gifted after the campaign ended.) The Portage County Holiday Basket Project purchases gifts and food stuffs needed to make a holiday meal for families in need. Donna Marx,
Seasonal Stress? Aspirus Health Therapist Offers Key Tips for a Healthier Holiday
"Choose the activities and traditions that you truly enjoy and protect your time and energy." RHINELANDER, Wis. – For many, the holiday season brings a sense of joy and celebration. However, for others, the pressure to meet unrealistic expectations can lead to significant stress and anxiety. Janet Wimmer, a clinical therapist with Aspirus Health, shares expert advice on how to manage these challenges and prioritize mental wellness during this busy time of year. "One of the biggest challenges is
Preventing Slip and Fall Injuries in the Winter
“It’s important to take your time and not be in a rush, use handrails and keep your hands free as much as possible.” MEDFORD, Wis. – As winter sets in, snow and ice can turn sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots into hazardous zones. Slip and fall injuries are among the most common winter-related accidents, often leading to serious consequences such as fractures, sprains, and head injuries. Kaitlin Eichman, a physical therapist with Aspirus Health, says with a little foresight and some practical
Keep Your Little Ones Safe This Winter: Aspirus Health Advises Against Puffy Coats in Car Seats
“A practical rule of thumb is to dress your child in what you’re wearing, plus an extra layer.” UPPER MICHIGAN, Mich. – As winter approaches and temperatures drop, parents and caregivers are prioritizing warmth and safety for their children. However, a common winter staple—puffy coats—may pose unexpected dangers when combined with car seats. Jaime Oswald, MD, Aspirus Family Medicine Physician and Safe Kids Wisconsin (SKW) provides essential guidance for securely bundling and buckling children
Goodwill NCW ready to meet the need of holiday shoppers looking to stay on budget
The National Retail Federation (NRF) forecasts that holiday spending is expected to reach record levels again this year, between $979.5 billion and $989 billion in total during the winter holidays. NRF’s latest holiday survey conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics found consumers plan to spend a record $902 per person on average on core holiday items including gifts, decorations, food and other holiday-related purchases this year. This year, 92% of consumers plan to celebrate the winter holidays. If
Interior architecture on display at UW-Stevens Point
Works by interior architecture students at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point are now being featured at the UW-Stevens Point Edna Carlsten Art Gallery. An opening reception will be held Friday, Dec. 13 from 2-5 p.m. “ROOTed”, an exhibition presented by interior architecture students graduating this fall, will be free and open to the public Dec. 13-Jan. 9 in the Noel Fine Arts Center Edna Carlsten Gallery, 1800 Portage St., Stevens Point. Gallery hours run from noon-6 p.m. Monday through Friday and
Right Care, Right Time, Right Place: Aspirus Health Offers Guidance for Respiratory Illness Season
“If too many people who do not have medical emergencies go to the emergency department, it slows down care for everybody.” WAUSAU, Wis. – As the “most wonderful time of the year” arrives, it also ushers in the busy season for respiratory illnesses like colds, flu, and COVID-19. With more patients seeking care during this time, Aspirus Health is providing important guidance to help individuals navigate their care options, ensuring timely treatment and reducing wait times. Know When to Stay Home:
UW-Stevens Point - faculty and staff recognized for excellence, achievement
Several faculty and staff members at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point have been recognized for excellence within their professional fields. Sarah Manasreh-Decker, assistant professor of clarinet and music theory, received a Universities of Wisconsin 2024 Outstanding Women of Color in Education Award, a honor given annually to recognize achievements in advancing equity and inclusion for people of color within the university and communities across the state. Manasreh-Decker teaches clarinet and
For Gen Z Making a Difference Matters: Junior Achievement Survey
Volunteering opportunities make a big difference to Gen Z when evaluating job prospects, according to a multi-generational Ipsos poll conducted for Junior Achievement USA, a nonprofit provider of educational programs for K-12 students. According to the survey of 2,294 adults, 72 percent of Gen Z want to work for companies that offer employees opportunities to volunteer. Additionally, 87 percent of Gen Z believe companies that offer volunteer opportunities for employees strengthen the community while 79
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
