Good morning, Wausau.

The Community Foundation and Town of Ringle met Tuesday to decide how to distribute $255K in tornado relief funds, and officials reported that about $20K was already spent on food, tarps, and dumpsters (supporting immediate recovery needs).

This week, National Apprenticeship Week honors local apprentices and recognizes the career growth of electricians and trades workers.

North Central Technical College is expanding its apprenticeship programs by launching non-traditional firefighter and paramedic training in the coming months.

John Edwards High School students in Port Edwards won the Spirit of Excellence Award from the Wisconsin Association of Student Councils for exceptional leadership plus community service that included fundraisers and a school-wide project supporting custodian Dwayne’s relief efforts.

Rosholt students are urging voters to help their PE teacher (MaKynna Lesinski) win the Packers Everywhere Fan Favorite Contest, where every vote enters a drawing for two Packers tickets and could display her photo at Lambeau Field; voters have one more day to cast their vote via the contest website.

A federal audit alleged that the state education department improperly allocated COVID relief funds to ineligible schools.

DPI disputes the audit (citing prior administration approval of its approach) and said available funds were used for schools in need, though a federal review is still ongoing.

The DNR urges residents to help migratory birds by turning off exterior lights and reducing window collisions as spring migration unfolds.

Ongoing events include the Great Wisconsin Birdathon from April 15 to June 15 and an upcoming Oshkosh Bird Fest on May 2.

After the EF-2 tornado struck Colby last May, independent insurance agent Andrew Bartelt advised homeowners to review their policies and document their possessions using smartphone videos to prepare for future severe weather; he noted that standard coverage includes wind, hail, and fire but not flood damage.

Bridge Community Health Clinic cut the ribbon on its new Grand Avenue location today, offering mental health, substance abuse, play, and couples therapy to help residents access care without barriers.

The Humane World for Animals released its annual Horrible Hundred report and listed 14 problematic dog breeders from Wisconsin among 100 nationwide — noting unsanitary conditions at some Chippewa Valley facilities.

Shelters recommend adoption as a safer alternative to buying from unethical breeders.

Local high school and middle school clubs are hosting their annual run/walk for mental health awareness on Sunday at DC Everest’s Stiehm Stadium (1000 Machmueller St in Weston), with gates opening at 9 a.m. and the race starting at 10 a.m.

The Marathon County Health Department reported receiving 193 dog bite and exposure reports in 2025 and reminded pet owners to keep animals vaccinated and controlled.

Officials advised close supervision of children around unfamiliar dogs to prevent incidents.

Marathon boys edged Wausau East by three points while Stratford girls won by 16.5 points at the 2026 Sawmill Track and Field Invitational at Wausau East; standout athletes including Ela Oestreich and Omar Ingram posted personal bests in pole vault and high jump.

Women of Vision Meet & Greet

6-7 p.m. — Infused — Free entry — Network and connect with inspiring women in North Central Wisconsin.

Jack Norton Live Performance

8 PM – 12 AM — Intermission Bar — Cost varies — Experience the soulful sounds of singer/songwriter Jack Norton with a unique blend of Southern storytelling and music.

Mommy & Me U Paint Event

6-8 p.m. — Mosaic of North Central Wisconsin — Cost Unknown — Create a personalized suncatcher while bonding with your little one in a creative setting.