Aspirus Health Shares Tips to Prevent Lyme Disease and Tick Bites During Lyme Disease Awareness Month
“We are in a unique position to bring immediate relief and help prevent chronic Lyme disease.” WOODRUFF, Wis. – With tick season underway, Aspirus Health is recognizing Lyme Disease Awareness Month by encouraging individuals and families across the Upper Midwest to take steps to prevent tick bites and the serious illnesses they can transmit. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), over 89,000 cases of Lyme disease were reported in 2023, reflecting a significant increase from
In Support of the Arts, $2,000 was donated by Prevail Bank to the Central Wisconsin Symphony OrchestraNews Release: 5/16/2025
Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra’s educational programs and outreach efforts were awarded $2,000 by Prevail Bank this Spring. Holding the check, surrounded by Prevail Bank professionals, were Central Wisconsin Symphony Orchestra’s (L to R) Office Manager, Brenda Zimmerman; Andy (Andres) Moran, Music Director; and Lyssa Edwards, Operations Manager. The Symphony was one of 29 nonprofit organizations selected to receive funding through Prevail Bank’s Charitable Contributions program this spring. The
Prevail Bank Supports Junior Achievement Programming in Portage & Wood Counties - with $3,125 Donation
[Stevens Point] Junior Achievement of Wisconsin – Portage & Wood Counties was awarded $3,125 by Prevail Bank in support of the financial literacy and career planning curriculum materials it provides for K-12 students. Joseph Luther, Junior Achievement Development Coordinator (far right) accepted the donation surrounded by Prevail Bank professionals. Junior Achievement of WI was one of 29 nonprofit organizations selected to receive funding through Prevail Bank’s Charitable Contributions program this spring.
Don’t Forget Your Life Jacket: Safe Boating Week Promotes Water Safety Awareness
“It’s important that we all have life jackets available, not just sitting nearby, but ready to use and preferably already on.” WAUSAU, Wis. – As summer returns to the Upper Midwest, the region’s picturesque lakes and rivers become popular destinations for recreation. With boating season underway, Safe Boating Week, recognized May 17–23, serves as a timely reminder of the importance of safety on the water. “Your biggest piece of safety equipment on a boat is your life jacket," emphasizes Lt. Darren Kuhn,
Midstate Independent Living Choices to Host a Disability Pride Festival
Stevens Point, WI – Midstate Independent Living Choices (MILC) will host their first ever Disability Pride Festival. This event will take place at Lake Pacawa Park in Plover on August 2nd, 2025, from 10am – 4pm. Coinciding with MILC's 25th anniversary, and the 35th anniversary of the ADA, the goal is to celebrate people with disabilities, and provide a space where everyone can participate in the festivities. The free event will have performances and bands featuring people with disabilities, adapted
Hooray for Hollywood: Second Annual Senior Prom Returns May 30th at the Stevens Point Area YMCA!
STEVENS POINT, WI — The Stevens Point Area YMCA, in partnership with the Aging and Disability Resource Center of Portage County, is proud to host their Second Annual Senior Prom: “Hooray for Hollywood” on Friday, May 30th, at the Stevens Point Area YMCA. This exciting evening invites community members aged 60 and older to enjoy a glamorous night of dinner, dancing, mocktails, music, photo booth pictures, and more. Dinner will be served from 5:00 to 6:00 PM, followed by a lively dance from 6:00 to 8:00 PM.
Blanchard Promoted to Vice President Business Banker
New London, WI – First State Bank is pleased to announce the promotion of Derek Blanchard as Vice President, Business Banker. Formerly a Senior Credit Analyst, Blanchard brings his deep expertise in credit analysis and customer-focused financial strategy to this new client-facing role. Since joining First State Bank in 2022, Derek has played a key role in evaluating credit risk and supporting the bank’s lending initiatives with thoughtful financial analysis. In his new position, he will partner directly
Prevail Bank Supports Junior Achievement programming in Portage & Wood Counties - with $3,125 Donation
Junior Achievement of Wisconsin – Portage & Wood Counties was awarded $3,125 by Prevail Bank in support of the financial literacy and career planning curriculum materials it provides for K-12 students. Joseph Luther, Junior Achievement Development Coordinator (far right) accepted the donation surrounded by Prevail Bank professionals. Junior Achievement of WI was one of 29 nonprofit organizations selected to receive funding through Prevail Bank’s Charitable Contributions program this spring. The program
Mental Health Awareness Month: Aspirus Shares Tips to Manage Stress and Build Resilience
“Just like we listen to our body when we are hungry, we can learn to recognize emotional cues like stress or overwhelm.” STEVENS POINT, Wis. – One in five adults in the United States experience mental illness each year according to the National Alliance on Mental Health, yet many hesitate to seek help because of stigma, fear, or uncertainty. This May, in recognition of Mental Health Awareness Month and the 2025 theme "TurnAwarenessInto Action," Aspirus Health is encouraging individuals to take
UW-Stevens Point faculty recognized for excellence and achievement
Several faculty members at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point have been recognized for excellence within their professional fields: Tyler Marchant, professor of theatre, acting and directing was recently appointed by Governor Evers to serve a three-year term on the Wisconsin Arts Board. The Wisconsin Arts Board is the state agency which nurtures creativity, cultivates expression, promotes the arts, supports the arts in education, stimulates community and economic development and serves as a
Aspirus Provides Access to Emergency Stroke Treatment Through Telestroke Services - Improving outcomes through faster stroke intervention
“Every minute that goes by is 1.9 million neurons that we lose. Time is brain, so every minute counts.” MEDFORD, Wis. – Stroke is a leading cause of disability and death in the United States, and for rural communities, timely treatment can be a significant challenge. During Stroke Awareness Month, Aspirus Health is highlighting how telestroke technology is helping bridge that gap and bring expert-level care to patients closer to home. Telestroke technology connects emergency teams with neurologists
Prevail Bank Welcomes Ruthie Dickinson as New Mortgage Loan Originator in Stevens Point
Prevail Bank is excited to welcome Ruth “Ruthie” Dickinson to its Stevens Point team as the branch’s new Mortgage Loan Originator (NMLS# 2717623). Ruthie brings a strong background in financial lending, customer service, and communications—skills that make the mortgage process smoother and more personal for the families she serves. Known for her warm personality and hands-on approach, Ruthie is passionate about helping customers find the right mortgage solution to fit their needs. Originally from
Aspirus Health and Three Bridges Create Lifelines for Substance Use Support
“Through compassionate peer support and evidence-based practices, we’re helping people reclaim their lives.” STEVENS POINT, Wis. – In an ongoing effort to address the challenges of substance use recovery, Aspirus Health and Three Bridges Recovery are coming together to provide healing and support for individuals facing substance use challenges. By combining medical expertise with community-driven advocacy, this partnership is changing the way substance use recovery is approached, offering both
UW-Stevens Point students recognized for achievement and excellence
The following students at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point were honored for excellence in academic achievement:Senior interior architecture students Sklyer Mulder and Amelia Retzlaff recently won first place in the Student Hospitality/Retail Category at the International Interior Design Association-WI Celebrate in Design Awards. This award celebrates the talent and hard work of the student members and is open to all IIDA-WI student members attending a Wisconsin college or university. This
Prioritizing Women’s Wellness at Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital - Empowering Women Through Community-Centered Care
“We’re a passionate, caring community that truly celebrates every new life—and the strong women behind it.” STEVENS POINT, Wis. – In honor of National Women’s Health Week, recognized May 11-17, Aspirus Health is proud to shine a spotlight on the exceptional caregivers at the Aspirus Stevens Point Birthing Center — where supporting women’s health is more than a mission; it is a shared commitment. Lora Harris, a Lactation Consultant at Aspirus, embodies the Birthing Center’s culture and their
Ignite Adds Two Local Pitchers for 2025 Season
Wausau, WI- Wausau Ignite Softball is excited to announce the signings of two local pitchers for the 2025 season. Maren Sauvageau from North Iowa Area Community College and Hannah Trzinski from the University of Minnesota at Crookston will join the team for their inaugural campaign. RHP– Maren Sauvageau| 5’10” | R/R | Freshman | North Iowa Area Community College RHP– Hannah Trzinski 5’6” | R/R | Freshman | University of Minnesota Crookston Sauvageau is originally from Plover, Wisconsin, and played her
UW-Stevens Point to hold commencement ceremonies May 17
The first female state forester in Wisconsin, a 2000 alum of the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, will address graduates and their families at the spring Commencement ceremonies on Saturday, May 17. Heather Berklund, who has worked for the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources’ Division of Forestry for nearly 25 years, will address students, families and friends attending graduation. Ceremonies will be held at 9:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the Skyward Fieldhouse in Marshfield Clinic Health Systems
Goodwill Week in May shines a light on the power of work Goodwill NCW helps people secure jobs, adva
North Central WI — Every year during the first full week of May, Goodwill organizations worldwide celebrate Goodwill Week. The observance raises awareness about Goodwill’s mission. Within the international Goodwill movement, Goodwill North Central Wisconsin’s (NCW) service area includes 27 stores and donation centers and one outlet store in Wisconsin, from La Crosse to Eau Claire to Green Bay, the Fox Valley, Manitowoc and in between. This Goodwill Week, which runs May 4–10, Goodwill NCW is encouraging the
Stronger Summers Start with Healthy Kids Well-child visits provide personalized care and early support to help children thrive year-round
“They’re an essential touchpoint for both families and providers to ensure children are thriving in all aspects of their lives — body, mind, and spirit.” STEVENS POINT, Wis. – Child wellness takes on heightened importance during the summer months, serving as a reminder for families to prioritize proactive healthcare and build a strong foundation for lifelong well-being. Ensuring a child’s health goes beyond growth charts and temperature checks. It involves supporting their physical, emotional, and
DNR Launches The Environmental Responsibility Navigator
MADISON, Wis. – The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), in honor of National Small Business Week, today launched the new Environmental Responsibility Navigator (Enviro-Nav) to help small businesses with environmental compliance.This tool, which was funded through the 2023-2025 state budget, provides a one-stop shop for businesses to easily understand the environmental requirements that apply to them, including those related to air pollution, water use/discharge and waste generation.The DNR
How to Identify Melanoma: The ABCDEs of early melanoma detection
“Melanoma doesn't discriminate, but individuals with lighter or less pigmented skin face a higher risk.” WAUSAU, Wis. – The first Monday in May is Melanoma Monday, launching Skin Cancer Awareness Month. Established by the American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) in 1995, this initiative encourages people to check their skin and recognize the warning signs of melanoma, the deadliest form of skin cancer. Melanoma arises from the uncontrolled replication of melanocytes, the cells responsible for skin
UW-Stevens Point history student aims be a resource for the next generation
Sitting on the other side of the desk, serving as a National History Day (NHD) judge, was a new experience for University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point sophomore Noah Stachovak. The history and social studies education major said his goal was to be fair and provide honest critiques on the student papers at the regional competition held April 4, 2025, at UW-Stevens Point. For seven years as a student, he stood across from judges, presenting his own projects on historical topics that fit the NHD yearly theme.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point Honors Leaders in Natural Resources, Industry, and Conservatio
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources has announced the recipients of its annual awards for 2024–25. The awards recognize outstanding individuals and organizations for their contributions to natural resources education, industry innovation, and environmental conservation. Dr. Mark Drew was awarded the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources Outstanding Alumnus Award in recognition of his distinguished career and contributions to wildlife. Drew
UWSP celebrates “Point in Time” with free community event in May
Celebrate another academic year and a historic anniversary at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point next week with a free community event, full of food, music and more. The Point in Time Festival, celebrating the 75th anniversary of the first Student Union at UW-Stevens Point, will take place on Friday, May 9, from 6-10 p.m., between the Dreyfus University Center and Old Main, Reserve St, Stevens Point. This open to the public event will feature free live music, food and carnival games.
Wausau Ignite and Woodchucks Award 2025 Share the Glove Grant
Baseball! The Woodchucks and Ignite are proud to partner with the Northwoods League Foundation and Rawlings to provide equipment for children in the community to continue a love and passion for baseball. The Share the Glove Equipment Grant was introduced in 2018 as a part of the Northwoods League’s 25th Season Celebration, with the mission of further inspiring a love for and participation in youth baseball and softball throughout communities. The Woodchucks and Ignite are excited to continue positively
Skyward recognized with the UW Regents Business Partnership Award
Celebrating decades of partnerships and service with the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, Skyward was presented with a UW Regents Business Partnership Award today. Leadership from Skyward, UW-Stevens Point and the Universities of Wisconsin, as well as Skyward employees who are UW-Stevens Point alumni, were among attendees. “The Board of Regents is proud of the partnership between UW-Stevens Point and Skyward,” said Regent Edmund Manydeeds III. “From scholarships to internships to employment after
Ignite Adds Carroll University Infielder to 2025 Roster
Wausau, WI- Infielder Valerie Osthoff from Carroll University in Waukesha, Wisconsin has signed with Wausau Ignite Softball for the 2025 season. INF– Valerie Osthoff| 5’6” | R/R | Junior | Carroll University A native of Geona, Wisconsin, Osthoff played for De Soto High School before starting her college career at Waubonsee Community College. Last season, Osthoff played Northwoods League Softball with the La Crosse Steam. This season at Carroll, Osthoff has batted .253 through 79 at-bats for the
YMCA Camp Glacier Hollow Awarded Grant to Expand Summer Camp Access for Local Youth
YMCA Camp Glacier Hollow is excited to share that we've received a generous 2025 grant from YMCA of the USA (Y-USA) to expand access to overnight camp experiences for youth in our community. This support—combined with funding from the Stevens Point Area YMCA’s Annual Campaign—will open the door for children from Pacelli Catholic Schools, the Boys & Girls Club of Portage County, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Wisconsin, and other community partners to enjoy an unforgettable summer at Camp Glacier
Understanding the Skin’s Aging Process: What You Can Do to Protect Your Skin Over Time
“It is never too early or too late to start taking care of your skin. A few consistent habits and the right guidance can make a big difference.” WAUSAU, Wis. – As people age, their skin naturally becomes thinner, less elastic, and more prone to wrinkles and discoloration. While these changes are part of the aging process, many of the most visible signs are influenced by everyday choices and environmental factors. At Aspirus Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics, Nurse Practitioner Nikole Larkin works with
Shakespeare comedy “Love’s Labor’s Won” takes the stage at UWSP
Experience the works of Shakespeare set in the era of World War 1 at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point this month. “Love’s Labor’s Won”, written by nationally recognized playwright Scott Kaiser, will be staged in the Studio Theatre of the Noel Fine Arts Center, 1800 Portage St., Stevens Point. Shows are at 7:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, May 2-3, and Thursday through Saturday May 8-10, with a matinee at 2 p.m. on Sunday, May 4. Tickets are $27 for adults, $24 for seniors and UW-Stevens Point
Community physical therapy clinic offered through UW-Stevens Point
A space at the nearby Stevens Point Area YMCA serves as a community physical therapy clinic, offering free consultations and services for the public and hands-on experience for students within the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Doctor of Physical Therapy(DPT) program. The graduate students work at the UW-Stevens Point Physical Therapy Clinic as part of their DPT Integrated Clinical Practice course sequence, which begins at the start of the two-and-a-half-year program and continues until students
Food + Farm Exploration Center hosts Career Awareness Fair, Coaches Meeting & Dinner for Collegiate Soil Science Leaders
Plover, WI – On Monday, April 28, Food + Farm Exploration Center hosted a unique Career Awareness Fair, Coaches Meeting & Dinner to spotlight the wide range of careers in modern agriculture. The event brought together over 275 college students and 30 faculty coaches from across the U.S., all in the area for the National Collegiate Soil Judging Contest organized by Dr. Bryant Scharenbroch, UW-Stevens Point Associate Professor of Soil Science and Waste Resources. Designed as an educational opportunity
How to Manage Seasonal Allergies Aspirus Health Expert on OTC Medications
“If symptoms continue despite treatment, or if you're relying on them long-term, it's important to talk to a health care provider.” WAUSAU, Wis. – As allergy season intensifies, many people turn to over-the-counter (OTC) medications for relief. However, choosing the right treatment and knowing when to seek medical advice is key to managing symptoms safely and effectively. "Antihistamines and decongestants are the most common OTC allergy medications," says Rebecca Thao, a pharmacy resident with Aspirus
Prevail Bank Combines Reading & Financial Education
During the month of April - National Financial Literacy Month - seven Prevail Bank professionals volunteered and taught, in collaboration with the classroom teachers, approximately 234 kids the value of saving. They facilitated money-related activities and read a book entitled, “Rock, Brock, and the Savings Shock” by Sheila Barr. In the story Rock and Brock are very different twins. Their grandpa offered them each one dollar every Saturday during the summer. For every dollar they saved, Gramps matched it.
M3 Expands Surety Expertise with the Addition of Babcock Solutions
GRAFTON, WI – M3 is pleased to announce we have joined forces with Babcock Solutions, strengthening our surety expertise and our commitment to delivering best-in-class surety solutions.This partnership aligns with M3’s focus on providing comprehensive risk management backed by deep industry knowledge and a client-first approach. “We are excited to join M3 and look forward to working with the M3 Surety team to continue building trusted relationships and best-in-class surety services for our current and
National Drug Take Back Day: Safely Dispose of Unused Medications on April 26 Find a Drop-Off Location Near You
“These medications contain chemicals that don’t just disappear. They can have lasting effects on the environment.” WAUSAU, Wis. – Aspirus Health is encouraging community members to participate in National Prescription Drug Take Back Day on April 26, a nationwide initiative led by the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) to provide a safe, responsible way to dispose of unused, unwanted, or expired medications. Proper disposal of medications helps prevent drug misuse and environmental contamination. In
Wausau Ignite Softball Announces 2025 Season Promotional Schedule
Wausau, WI – Wausau Ignite Softball is excited to announce the promotions for the upcoming inaugural season! From giveaways and character appearances to dazzling fireworks displays, your summer fun destination a Wausau Ignite Softball game. Get your hands on some exclusive inaugural season giveaway items in 2025! The excitement starts on Opening Day, with the first 250 fans through the gate will receive a rally towel, courtesy of Wipfli. The very next day, on June 11th, the first 100 fans will receive a
All 18 Aspirus Health hospitals earn 2024 Tree Campus recognition from Arbor Day Foundation
WAUSAU, Wis. – The Arbor Day Foundation recently named all 18 Aspirus Health hospitals as 2024 Tree Campus institutions for their dedication to enhancing community well-being through tree investment, education and community engagement. Aspirus Health hospitals earning this recognition:Aspirus Divine Savior (Portage, Wis.)Aspirus Eagle RiverAspirus Iron RiverAspirus IronwoodAspirus Keweenaw (Laurium, Mich.)Aspirus Lake View (Two Harbors, Minn.)Aspirus Langlade (Antigo, Wis.)Aspirus MedfordAspirus
Bancroft Native Riley Stiles Signs with Ignite for 2025
Wausau, WI- Riley Stiles, a right-handed pitcher from Lake Forest College, has signed with Wausau Ignite Softball for 2025. RHP– Riley Stiles| 5’7” | R/R | Junior | Lake Forest College Stiles is originally from Bancroft, Wisconsin, and previously played at Rock Valley College before transferring. Last summer, she played with the Mankato Habaneros and is excited to continue to be a part of the growth of Northwoods League Softball. So far this season, Stiles has commanded the game with a 7-4 record and a
New Boys & Girls Club Coming to Marshfield
Stevens Point, WI - The Boys & Girls Club of Portage County is thrilled to officially announce the opening of a Boys & Girls Club in Marshfield, setting the stage for meaningful impact in the lives of Marshfield youth.With strong support from the Marshfield Area Chamber of Commerce, the School District of Marshfield, and the entire community, this new Club will provide safe, supportive, and enriching summer programming for children at Grant Elementary, while paving the way for a future stand-alone center
UWSP Chemistry Biology Building to be dedicated May 2
The Chemistry Biology Building at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point will be dedicated in honor of an alumni couple with a special presentation next week. The building will be named the Frank R. and Kathleen Y. Haeni Chemistry Biology Building at 2 p.m., Friday, May 2, in Room 105, with remarks from Joshua Hagen, dean of the College of Letters and Science (COLS), and La Vonne Cornell-Swanson, provost and vice chancellor for Academic Affairs. The dedication will be followed by the COLS 26th Annual
Mia Johnson to Join Wausau Ignite Softball in Inaugural Season
Wausau, WI- Wausau Ignite Softball is excited to announce that Mia Johnson will join the roster for the 2025 season. C/INF – Mia Johnson| 5’7” | R/R | Junior | University of Wisconsin - Parkside Originally from South Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Johnson has been a strong tool at UW-Parkside for the past three seasons. In 2024, Johnson was named First Team for the Great Lakes Intercollegiate Athletic Conference and Player of the Year, batting .383 with 44 RBIs. Johnson is having a great 2025 season, batting .369
Aspirus Offering Free Seminar on Atrial Fibrillation - Learn About AFib and Protect Your Heart Health.
Stevens Point, Wis. – Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a common but serious heart condition that significantly increases the risk of stroke and heart failure if left untreated. Symptoms such as fatigue, shortness of breath, and dizziness can impact your ability to stay active and diminish your quality of life. To help individuals better understand and manage this condition, Aspirus Heart Care is hosting a free seminar on Wednesday, May 7th. The event will cover the relationship between AFib, stroke, and
Historic powwow to take place at UW-Stevens Point
Marking its milestone 50th annual event, the American Indians Reaching for Opportunities (AIRO) Powwow will be held at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point on Saturday, May 3. The event will take place in Skyward Fieldhouse, 2050 Fourth Ave., Stevens Point. General admission is $7, admission with a UWSP student ID is $5, and elders over 65 and kids under 3 may enter for free. Doors open at 11 a.m., with grand entries at 1 p.m. and 7 p.m. All dancers will line up during grand entries and enter in
Stevens Point Area YMCA Sets Kids Up for a Safe, Healthy, & Fun Summer at Healthy Kids Day!
The Stevens Point Area YMCA is hosting the Y’s Annual Healthy Kids Day® on Saturday, April 26th from 10:00 AM to 12:00 PM. This free event features a variety of family-friendly activities to encourage healthy kids, healthy families, and a healthy start to the summer season. Sponsored nationally by Peanuts®, Healthy Kids Day’s mission is to prepare Stevens Point families for a safe, healthy, and fun summer. Some featured activities include open swim in the Adventure Pool, open play on large inflatables,
UWSP Edna Carlsten Gallery hosts 2025 Student Juried Show
A collection of student work is on display at the Edna Carlsten Gallery at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point as part of the 2025 Student Juried Show. Juried by Wisconsin-based artists Brad Killam and Michelle Grabner, the exhibit runs from April 17 to May 3. The community may attend the live jurying and awards reception from 5:30-7:30 p.m. on Thursday, April. 24. The gallery, located on the second floor of the Noel Fine Arts Center, is free and open to the public. Gallery hours are noon to 6
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
