Good morning, Wausau.

Firefighters are visiting local schools this week to teach children emergency response as part of Community Risk Reduction Week declared by Mayor Doug Diny and Gov. Tony Evers.

The program covers home safety tips for cold weather (including proper heater use and salted driveways).

Wisconsin River Power Company begins its annual dam drawdown at Petenwell Dam to perform essential maintenance & ensure safe repairs.

It warns locals to avoid driving on thin ice on the reservoir as water levels drop by up to 5 feet until April.

Today a Union of Concerned Scientists report warns that growing data centers could drive 68% of Wisconsin's additional electricity demand by 2030 and shift costs onto households if protective policies are absent.

WEC Energy Group said its proposed rate plan aims to have data centers cover the extra costs for power use.

The Wausau Fire Department reported a record 7,200 calls in 2025 with most being emergency medical calls.

The department will hold a spring referendum to retain 12 firefighter-paramedic positions (for faster on-scene response) following Fire Chief Jeremy Kopp's announcement.

On Monday, the Wausau Parks and Recreation Committee discussed two proposals for the Riverlife Concessions Stand as it seeks a long-term partner after the Briq’s lease ended last year; a decision will be made in February when the full council gives final approval.

Jane Graham Jennings, executive director of The Women’s Community (which helps victims of abuse and trafficking) in Wausau, has been named Rep. Pat Snyder’s Hometown Hero by the State Assembly after local nominees were considered.

Marathon County shelter urges pet owners to microchip their animals using an affordable device that links each pet to its owner's contact information; the service recently reunited three dogs and one cat and costs $10 + tax at the shelter, offering a cheaper option than at the vet.

Mosinee's Indians defeated Marathon 71-55 yesterday as Reinke led with 22 points and two teammates also scored in double figures, with Mosinee controlling the game from start to finish.

The Marathon girls basketball team returned home Tuesday night and beat No. 6 Assumption (50-41) in a pivotal Marawood South Conference matchup, leaving both teams with a 6-2 record and a tie for second place.

Tuesday, the Northland Pines boys basketball team beat Wausau East 68-61 on the road and improved to a 9-5 record with a Friday game against Merrill scheduled; meanwhile, the East-Merrill United hockey team earned a 6-5 overtime win over Pacelli at Marathon Park and will play Wisconsin Rapids Thursday.

Winter Brew Fest

6-9 p.m. — Rothschild Pavilion — $30-$45 — Sample beers from 10+ breweries while enjoying a brat bar and live entertainment.