Good morning, Wausau.

The Neighbors’ Place announced a $16K donation from Kocourek Kia to help local families access essential meal items at The Market from Dec.

10 through Dec. 23 + company staff will volunteer during the distribution to support those facing food insecurity this holiday season.

On Dec. 7, Wood County youth prepared 55 pans of lasagna to support local families after a winter storm canceled a scheduled event on Nov.

29; the Girl Scouts hosted the gathering and partnered with Lasagna Love to assist those facing tough financial decisions.

The 78th Alice in Dairyland program features the Something Special from Wisconsin initiative to spotlight local small businesses offering products with at least 50% Wisconsin components - shoppers can find items with the red-yellow logo at local retailers and markets.

Marathon County gas prices remain among the state's lowest as unleaded gasoline is available for under $2.50 a gallon in the Wausau area — Sam's Club charged $2.45 on Monday morning, compared to the statewide average of $2.59, according to AAA Wisconsin and GasBuddy.com.

Junior Achievement of Wisconsin is offering five scholarships (each $1,500) for 2026 graduating seniors in Marathon County, and applicants must submit an essay, resume, and two letters of recommendation by March 31 to help pay for post-secondary education.

Governor Tony Evers signed Bradyn’s Law Monday afternoon to impose harsher penalties for sextortion, honoring 15-year-old Bradyn Bohn who died in March after being targeted online.

His family said the measure marks an important step in continuing education on online safety and prevention.

Weston will change its waste collection service this month as Waste Management picks up old carts and Harter’s Fox Valley Disposal delivers new ones for garbage and recycling (residents should not use them until Jan.

1) while annual fees rise to $205.50.

Wausau mental health experts say that shorter days and colder weather may increase depression and anxiety this winter.

Amy Weeks from Rogers Health advises practicing coping skills, such as deep breathing and reaching out for support (for example, calling a friend), to ease holiday stress.

The American Red Cross is urging local donors to give blood this holiday season to maintain a steady supply and is offering incentives including a $15 Amazon gift card for donations made from Dec.

8 to 18; Wausau’s Thrive Church will host a drive on Dec. 10 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Sweating with Santa 5K 2025

8 a.m. – 2 p.m. — Greenheck Turner Community Center (GTCC) — Proceeds support youth sports scholarships — Experience a unique indoor 5K run with Santa for the whole family.