Good morning, Wausau.

The Community Foundation of North Central Wisconsin honored longtime leader Tom Mack today for guiding the Clyde F.

Schlueter Fund to support youth programs and community improvements in Wausau. His service helped keep Clyde Schlueter’s vision alive over decades.

The Salvation Army needs volunteers to ring bells at red kettles outside grocery stores through Christmas Eve as donations reach $48,000 toward a $100,000 goal, and two local first responders joined the effort to boost community support (despite cold, snowy weather).

At Marshfield Children's Hospital, Santa dropped off hundreds of gifts on Thursday to ease patient anxiety, while in Wisconsin Rapids an organization celebrated its 5th year of sharing support for families with the Best Christmas Ever program ahead of Christmas.

Both events aim to spread holiday cheer across central Wisconsin.

Marathon County Public Library branches will host book clubs in January covering titles from Kristin Hannah to Matt Haig.

Sessions include discussion of ‘The Women’ at Marathon City on Jan. 12 and others in Edgar, Hatley, Athens, Stratford, Mosinee, Rothschild, and Wausau (check local libraries for phone details and times).

WSAW along with Fox WZAW and Central Wisconsin CW will air Sounds of the Season, a one-hour holiday music special featuring 13 high school choirs performing favorite carols — with shows set for Dec.

24, 25, 27, 28 and 31.

With snow forecast, state environmental officials warn residents to limit salt use on driveways and sidewalks, as runoff harms local waterways (already impaired under the Clean Water Act) and aquatic life.

The Department of Health Services confirmed two child deaths on Thursday from respiratory illnesses, one from COVID-19 and one from the flu.

The agency urged families to vaccinate as virus activity increases.

Wausau Free Clinic is bracing for a surge in patient visits next year as ACA premium tax credits expire Dec.

31 (the clinic already treats about 40 patients a week and relies on volunteers) and fears longer waiting lists amid rising costs despite a $4,000 Packers Foundation grant.

On Thursday, Marshfield wrestling beat Wausau East 64-12 in a local dual in Wausau — while SPASH hockey won 5-0 against D.C.

Everest in Weston to remain unbeaten this season.

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.