Good morning, Wausau.

At Wisconsin Valley Fair, Athens Veterinary Service checks hundreds of animals to make sure they meet health rules and stay safe.

Vets work with animal owners to isolate sick animals and keep the event running smoothly—ensuring proper care during busy times like the rodeo.

Fetch Foster and Rescue in Marathon County is facing funding challenges from rising vet costs and reduced donations that now limit care to about 36 dogs+ the volunteer-run facility has rescued over 1,500 dogs since 2019.

They will hold a fundraiser on August 23 at Sawmill Brewing in Merrill to help expand the operation.

Two people died from carbon monoxide poisoning on Wisconsin boats this year — one was an 11-year-old girl from Merrill who was on an open-air boat where engine exhaust built up, and officials warn that low speeds and blocked vents can cause the dangerous gas to accumulate.

A 26-year-old Schofield man pleaded no contest on July 31 in Marathon County Circuit Court to charges of first‑degree recklessly endangering safety and firearm possession as a felon for a shooting at Marathon County Park that occurred in October 2023—he was sentenced to 20 years and received credit for 177 days served.

Straight No Chaser will perform at The Grand Theater on Thursday at 7:30 p.m. The nine-member group will sing 90s hits with a stripped-down style as part of their summer tour.

Gas prices in Wausau rose slightly this week as oil prices increased due to expected tariffs on Russian oil plus analyst Patrick De Haan explained that USMCA ties keep most crude coming from Canada, keeping major price shifts unlikely; he added that prices are expected to drop when winter gasoline arrives in mid-September.

St. John Lutheran Church and School accepted an offer from the Wausau School District to buy Hewitt-Texas Elementary School and will move from County Road Z to Granite Road, 3.5 miles north; school leaders say the change will bring improved faith-based learning to the community + ensure a smooth transition.

Gilman School District installed new solar panels on its grounds last week and expects the panels to save about $20,000 in energy costs each year—using long-range funds and an energy tax exemption to cut the payback period to roughly 7.6 years while supporting STEM learning.

Mission Lake Beach reopened after officials closed it earlier this week when high E. coli levels were detected—tests now show the bacteria are in a low-risk range and officials ruled out several potential sources while promising continued monitoring through the summer.

Wausau Marathon and Half Marathon

6:30-8 a.m. — 1201 Stewart Ave, Wausau, WI — Registration required — Participate as an ANGEL or a CAPTAIN in a race that promotes inclusion for all.

Hormone Health and Happy Hour

Join us for a free, fun, casual, and educational evening at Wausau's newest venue, Infused! Grab a refreshing drink like Hormone Harmony or Pellet Punch, enjoy light snacks, and learn how optimizing your hormones can help you reclaim energy, improve mood, boost libido, and feel like yourself again. Bob, our expert from Evexias, will be sharing everything you need to know about hormones and pellet therapy—an effective and convenient option for both men and women. Learn how hormone balance affects your overall health, understand the benefits of bioidentical pellets and other forms of hormone replacement, and ask questions in a relaxed, no-pressure setting. Don’t miss out on special event perks and exclusive offers! Space is limited—RSVP now to save your seat! Call or text us at 715-240-4150 to reserve your spot and bring a friend!

Live Music by SEPARATE WAYS

6:15-9:15 p.m. — 400 Block — Cost information not provided — Enjoy a night of live music with SEPARATE WAYS in downtown Wausau.

Wausau Conservatory of Music Summer Concert

2:30-3:00 p.m. — Wausau Conservatory of Music, Inc. — $10 for adults, $5 for children — Experience a delightful summer chamber concert performed by talented CWSO musicians.