UW-Stevens Point students recognized for achievement, excellence
The following students at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point were honored for excellence in academic achievement: The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s student- run radio station, WWSP-90fm, was honored with 10 individual awards by the Wisconsin Broadcaster’s Association (WBA) in February 2025. Each year the WBA hosts a student seminar for high school and college affiliated broadcast organizations to network with industry professionals, attend career development seminars and receive
Springing Forward and Maintaining Healthy Sleep During Daylight Saving Time
“Sleep is foundational to our physical, mental, and emotional wellbeing.” UPPER MICHIGAN, Mich. – As we prepare to "spring forward" on Sunday, March 9, it’s a great time to highlight the importance of healthy sleep habits—not just for adjusting to Daylight Saving Time (DST) but for overall well-being. Losing even one hour of sleep can disrupt our internal clocks, leaving us feeling sluggish, irritable, and unfocused. Research shows that people tend to lose about 40 minutes of sleep in the
Simplicity Credit Union Announces Groundbreaking!
March 3, 2025 – Stevens Point, Wisconsin – Simplicity Credit Union is excited to announce they will be breaking ground on a brand-new, state-of-the-art facility in the Portage County Business Park in Stevens Point, WI. Planning for the new location is underway with Keller, Inc., a design and general contractor located in Central Wisconsin. The Simplicity Team plans for an official groundbreaking event early April 2025 and the new branch to open late fall of 2025. “This is a significant milestone for
Schmeeckle Reserve offering nature programs at UW-Stevens Point in March
Explore everything nature has to offer 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:“Rocky Relationships with Wildlife,” Friday, March 7,
Addressing Addiction: Understanding the Importance of Seeking Treatment
Health care professionals emphasize compassion, accessible treatment options, and the importance of early intervention in overcoming substance abuse. “Addiction is no different than any other medical condition. People deserve compassionate care and effective treatment.” WAUSAU, Wis. – Substance abuse continues to be a significant concern across many communities, with alcohol, opioids, and methamphetamine use among the most common challenges individuals face. Health care professionals emphasize
UW-Stevens Point professor prepares students for the future of AI in creative fields
Associate Professor of Media Studies Cary Elza is preparing her students to adapt to a changing landscape of innovations in artificial intelligence (AI) instead of fearing the unknown. This semester a new topic under the MSTU 354 course at the University of Wisconsin- Stevens Point was piloted by Elza, “Topics in Media Production: Artificial Intelligence and Creativity.” “Media creators are at the front lines of this,” she said. “Many of our students go on to create, and I don’t think that these tools
Opportunities for people with disabilities through Goodwill NCW’s employment services
MENASHA, WI – This March, Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (NCW) is proud to recognize National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and celebrate the value and talent workers with disabilities add to America’s workplaces and economy. It is 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 offers employment services to help
Early Literacy Program Helps Build Strong Foundations for Children
Encouraging early reading habits to support childhood development and lifelong learning. “When a child grows up surrounded by books and stories, they develop a love for learning that lasts a lifetime.” WAUSAU, Wis. – Reading is one of the most powerful tools for a child’s development, helping to build language skills, improve cognitive function, and strengthen emotional bonds with caregivers. According to Reach Out and Read, families participating in the program are 2.5 times more likely to read
Aspirus Closes on Land Purchase for New Chippewa Falls Hospital
CHIPPEWA FALLS, Wis. – Aspirus finalized the purchase of 22.1 acres of land in Chippewa Falls on Thursday, Feb. 27, and plans to break ground on a new hospital this spring. The project marks a significant step toward helping close health care gaps in the region. The new hospital will be located on Chippewa Crossing Boulevard, directly across from Fire Station No. 1, near the intersection of Chippewa Crossing and Seymour Cray Sr. boulevards. Initial services will include primary care, emergency
Aspirus Clinical Therapist on Creating Safe Spaces for Teen Mental Health
“One of the most important things adults can do is resist jumping to conclusions or taking things personally.” STEVENS POINT, Wis. – Teen mental health is a growing concern, with recent data from Mental Health America showing that one in five adolescents aged 12 to 17 has experienced at least one major depressive episode in the past year. To raise awareness, World Teen Mental Wellness Day is observed annually on March 2 as a reminder to encourage open conversations, reduce stigma, and promote
CONCERT PROGRAM ADVERTISING SPONSORSHIP 2025-2026
Your advertisement will be included in both the CWSO’s and the CWYSO’s (our youth orchestra) concert programs for the entire 2025-2026 season.This consists of a total of 6 concerts (4 CWSO and 2 CWYSO concerts) between the months of September 2025 to May 2026 with professionally printed programs for each concert.Throughout the season, your advertisement will be seen by over 5,000 people in the area!The program advertisement sponsorship is also a tax-deductible charitable donation.All advertisements support
Cardiac Rehab can help heal your heart, get you back to living life
“One of the advantages of any cardiac rehab program is the safety aspect of the supervised program.” STANLEY, Wis. – When you are living with heart disease, especially if you have just had a heart attack or heart surgery, it is normal to worry about your quality of life going forward. How much activity is too much? Am I eating the right food? Will I get back to doing the things I love? The unknowns can be overwhelming. This is where the cardiopulmonary rehabilitation team can help. “Cardiopulmonary
UW-Stevens Point recognized nationally for research efforts
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point was rated nationally among Research Colleges and Universities by The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching and the American Council on Education. The designation is for institutions that award at least $2.5 million on research and development each year. UW-Stevens Point is among 218 universities and colleges in the United States with this designation, and among just eight in the state. UW-Stevens Point was awarded $6.89 million in new research
Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital Recognized by Chartis as a Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital
(Stevens Point, WI)- Aspirus Stevens Point Hospital has been named among the 2025 Top 100 Rural & Community Hospitals by The Chartis Center for Rural Health. Chartis’ annual Top 100 award program honors outstanding performance among the nation’s rural hospitals based on the results of the Chartis Rural Hospital Performance INDEX®. “Being a Top 100 Rural & Community Hospital means our community can count on us to deliver the services they need,” said Carrie Penovich, President, Aspirus Southeast WI
UW-Stevens Point to host 2025 Educators Rising State Conference
High school students from across Wisconsin will explore future career opportunities in education at the 2025 Educators Rising State Conference and Competitions, to be held Friday, March 7, at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Hosted by the School of Education and the Harju Center for Equity in Education at UW-Stevens Point, the summit is intended for students in grades 9-12. Themed “In It Together,” the summit runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and includes speakers and optional competitive events where
Aspirus Encourages Early Support During Eating Disorders Awareness Week National Eating Disorders Awareness Week
National Eating Disorders Awareness Week is February 24 – March 2 “Open, judgment-free conversations can encourage individuals to seek the support they need.” STEVENS POINT, Wis. – An estimated 28.8 million Americans will experience an eating disorder in their lifetime, according to the National Eating Disorders Association (NEDA). Despite their prevalence, eating disorders often remain misunderstood and stigmatized. “Eating disorders encompass a wide range of conditions tied to disordered eating
UWSP graduate student uncovers secrets of Wisconsin’s little-known buffalo fish
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point graduate student Ryan Bohen is shedding light on a little-known native fish species in Wisconsin, spearheading research that could inform how fisheries are managed across the state. Bohen, a student in UW-Stevens Point’s College of Natural Resources, is studying the population dynamics of bigmouth and smallmouth buffalo. These two native fish species often go unnoticed in traditional fisheries management. Despite their longevity—some live up to 70 years—and their
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
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
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
