Good morning, Wausau.

9 News is hosting its Annual July Food Drive from Jul.

13-24 at drop-off sites in Stevens Point, Weston, and Antigo to collect nonperishables and household essentials for local food pantries.

At Wednesday night’s Concerts on the Square, organizers collected 1,279 pounds of pop tabs in a yearlong drive for Pop Tabs for Sophia; proceeds from the tabs + raffle and donations, including a $30,000 grant, will benefit the Ronald McDonald House in Marshfield.

Marathon County Public Library in Wausau will host a free game night for teens and adults at its main branch (300 N.

First St.) on July 15 from 5 to 7 p.m.; guests can try new board games or bring their favorites to share.

AAA forecasts 1.6 million Wisconsinites will travel during Fourth of July weekend with 1.4 million by car, urging drivers to pack water, chargers and roadside tools and time departures to avoid heavy traffic.

The free Tow-to-Go program runs from Thursday at 6 p.m. until Monday at 6 a.m.

Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez unveiled her Wisconsin Promise education plan that seeks extra school funds using the state’s budget surplus or revised corporate tax cuts.

Her plan supports teachers + special education and is outlined ahead of the Aug. 11 primary.

Marathon County officials will increase on-the-water patrols from today through July 5 to enforce boating laws during the Fourth of July weekend, as part of Operation Dry Water.

They remind boaters to follow safety requirements and avoid alcohol while operating boats + vehicles.

Health officials warn lake-goers that a microscopic parasite can cause swimmer’s itch and suggest drying off immediately to prevent a rash.

Environmental health specialist Tammy King explained that the parasite originates from birds (and is carried by snails) and thrives in shallow, warm waters.

UW Health doctors urge caution with fireworks as the Fourth of July nears, emphasizing that sparklers can cause severe burns and advising that only sober adults handle them — keep a water source nearby for emergencies.

ENT & Allergy Associates closed its Wisconsin Rapids outreach clinic on June 30 after more than 22 years of service, and patients have been rescheduled to continue care at the Stevens Point office.

The Marathon County Health Department is reminding swimmers and boaters to check water quality at four area beaches (Big Eau Pleine, Dells of Eau Claire, Mission Lake and Sunny Vale) before enjoying the holiday weekend.

Visitors should avoid waters that appear green, cloudy or murky as results are updated on Mondays.

Student athletes in central Wisconsin can get free sports physicals at Bone & Joint Clinic’s walk-in event on July 7 from 5:15 to 7:15 p.m. at its Rib Mountain location (225000 Hummingbird Road) and families are encouraged to donate either two unopened hygiene items or $10 to support local schools.

Crews began demolition of the former Graebel building in downtown Wausau to clear space for Grant Place, a 55-plus complex with 70 apartments and 24 assisted living units.

Beacon Resources and the Dwight and Linda Davis Foundation plan to complete the project by mid to late 2028.

Local baseball saw wins on Wednesday as the Woodchucks secured an 11-6 victory at home with a three-run blast from Jackson Petsche and Ignite posted a 14-5 win with back-to-back homers while the Wisconsin Rapids Rafters lost 14-3 to the Mallards.

Jazz on the River Concert Series

Sundays, Jul 19 – Aug 16 — Kickbusch Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant series of free jazz concerts along the scenic river in Wausau.

Jazz on the River Summer Concert Series

5-7 p.m. — Kickbusch Plaza — Free entry — Enjoy a relaxing summer evening filled with live jazz while overlooking the river.

Painting with Sound

Drop-in to the Woodson Art Museum's sculpture garden on Thursday, July 30 from 5 to 6 pm to experiment with Coloratura technology, meet with inventor and artist Camry Ivory, and paint with sound! Watch and listen as your brushstrokes create art and music right before your eyes and ears. No registration is required and all ages are welcome to join in. In case of inclement weather, this program will be held at the Glass Box Studio.

Wausau Woodchucks vs. Lakeshore Chinooks Baseball Game

1:05-4:05 p.m. — Historic Athletic Park — Free entry — Enjoy an afternoon of baseball with food and excellent views along the third-base line.