Mid-State Technical College to host Tactical Strength & Readiness Symposium for public safety professionals
Mid-State Technical College’s Workforce & Economic Development division is proud to host the Tactical Strength & Readiness Symposium, a two-day event designed to equip public safety professionals with the tools they need to perform at their best—physically, mentally and under pressure. Taking place July 21–22 at Mid-State’s Wisconsin Rapids Campus, the symposium will bring together expert speakers and practitioners for keynote presentations and interactive breakout sessions focused on resilience,
First State Bank Scoops Free Ice Cream Floats
Wisconsin Rapids, WI – First State Bank is proud to support local dairy farmers and producers—one delicious treat at a time! In celebration of June Dairy Month, customers and community members are invited to stop at their local First State Bank for a free root beer or orange ice cream float, served from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the following location dates:Friday, June 5 – MarshfieldFriday, June 12 – Wisconsin RapidsThursday, June 18 – AuburndaleFriday, June 26 – Stevens Point“June Dairy Month is a wonderful
Alexander Field awarded $2.7 million grant for terminal modernization and renovation
WISCONSIN RAPIDS – Alexander Field-South Wood County Airport announces it has been awarded a $2.7 million Federal Aviation Agency (FAA) grant to support a comprehensive terminal modernization and renovation project designed to enhance user experience, improve community engagement, and strengthen the airport’s long-term infrastructure. The project is expected to include: • Modernized terminal interiors and passenger/crew areas • Accessibility and ADA-compliant upgrades • Improved energy efficiency and
Nursing graduates recognized in Mid-State’s spring 2026 pinning ceremony
Mid-State Technical College recognized the achievements of its 37 Nursing program graduates in a pinning ceremony May 19 on the Wisconsin Rapids Campus. Graduates were joined by their family and friends at the celebration. The nursing pinning ceremony is a celebratory endcap to a nursing student’s academic journey and a bridge between nursing school and a nursing career. It honors and celebrates nursing students and their path to becoming a nurse. It is also a day of celebration for the nursing faculty
Mid-State celebrates spring 2026 commencement at Wisconsin Rapids Campus
Mid-State Technical College’s spring 2026 graduates were recognized during the College’s biannual commencement ceremony on the Wisconsin Rapids Campus, Saturday, May 16. Out of a class of 780 graduates across the College's campuses, over 250 crossed the stage to receive their diploma. “Now you stand at the threshold of a new chapter,” said Mid-State President Dr. Shelly Mondeik in her address to the graduating class. “My hope is simple for all of you. Use everything that you’ve gained here—the skills
Prevail Bank Supports Buckley Baldwin VFW – Post 2534 with $2,000 Donation
The Buckley Baldwin VFW – Post 2534 received $2,000 from Prevail Bank in support of its operations and building maintenance. The contribution was one of 25 awarded through Prevail Bank’s Charitable Contributions Committee. This spring, the Committee donated a total of $109,945 to nonprofits that serve low-to-moderate income households, support local economic growth, provide financial education, or enhance the quality of life for underserved populations across the communities Prevail Bank
Prevail Bank Supports United Way of South Wood & Adams County with $5,000 Donation
(Wisconsin Rapids) United Way of South Wood & Adams County received $5,000 from Prevail Bank to help those individuals and families in Wood and Adam Counties who are experiencing food insecurities. The contribution was one of 25 awarded through Prevail Bank’s Charitable Contributions Committee. This spring, the Committee donated a total of $109,945 to nonprofits that serve low-to-moderate income households, support local economic growth, provide financial education, or enhance the quality of life
Technical college presidents respond to governor’s budget surplus proposal
College leaders clarify proposal shifts funding rather than creating new long-term investment in workforce education All 16 presidents of the Wisconsin Technical College System (Northeast Wisconsin Technical College, Fox Valley Technical College, Moraine Park Technical College, Mid-State Technical College, Northcentral Technical College, Gateway Technical College, Blackhawk Technical College, Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, Nicolet Technical College, Milwaukee Area Technical College, Chippewa
Mid-State’s Andrew Dewitt receives statewide safety award
Mid-State Technical College Director of Safety & Security Andrew Dewitt has been named a recipient of the J. Timothy Greene Risk Impact Award, recognizing outstanding leadership in campus safety and risk management across the Wisconsin Technical College System. Presented by Districts Mutual Insurance (DMI), the award honors individuals who demonstrate exceptional commitment to safety, often through behind-the-scenes efforts that create safer learning environments. Dewitt was recognized for his
News Release: 5/11/2026
Heike O'Day just successfully completed a week of training with the Texas School for Professional Photography in Addison, TX. Her instructor, Carl Caylor of Iron Mountain, MI taught four full days of seeing and using naturally available light, using additional lighting sources, choosing locations and backgrounds and camera settings appropriate to the model's outfits and the clients' requests and your own ideas for the final portrait. Though around 800 photographers of all skill levels and from all over the
City of Wisconsin Rapids Announces Purple Heart City Designation and Veterans Honor Walk
WISCONSIN RAPIDS, WISCONSIN – The City of Wisconsin Rapids will be formally designated as a Purple Heart City by the Wisconsin Military Order of the Purple Heart during a ceremony held on May 21 at 6 p.m. at the Elks Lodge, 430 W Jackson St. Purple Heart recipients are invited to participate in the event, so they can be recognized for their service and sacrifice. Members of the public are also welcome to attend and join the community in showing their support. The City of Wisconsin Rapids and American
Mid-State hosts regional New Ideas Pitch Challenge
Students present business ideas at entrepreneurship competition Mid-State Technical College hosted the New Ideas Pitch Challenge on April 21 at its Stevens Point Downtown Campus LEAD Center, bringing together students from across Wisconsin technical colleges to present innovative business ideas and compete for top honors. The regional entrepreneurship competition featured 10 student participants representing multiple colleges, including Fox Valley Technical College, Nicolet Technical College, Northeast
Mid-State hosts Admit Day, awards $5,000 Big Decision Scholarship
Mid-State Technical College welcomed approximately 60 high school seniors and their families to its annual Admit Day, recognizing students who have chosen to continue their education at Mid-State. The event, held in alignment with National College Decision Day, gave students the opportunity to celebrate their admission, connect with faculty and advisors and take the next steps toward starting their college journey. This year more than 1,600 high school seniors were automatically admitted to Mid-State
BRAT FRY - Hosted by the American Legion Post 9
A Brat Fry will be hosted by American Legion Post 9 members on7 June 2026, in front of the Quality Foods grocery store located at 1811 Baker Dr., Wisconsin Rapids, WI. 54494. Sale time will run starting at 9am - 2am (or the brats sell out). Sodas and water will also be available.
Mid-State’s spring 2026 commencement set for May 16
Mid-State Technical College will host its spring graduation on Saturday, May 16. The outdoor ceremony is designed to celebrate all graduating students, their families and invited guests. The event begins at 11 a.m. on the Wisconsin Rapids Campus. Civil Engineering Technology-Highway Technician graduate Sam Jerry, Birchwood, will deliver the student address. The faculty send-off will be delivered by Michael Johnson, Civil Engineering Technology-Highway Technician instructor. The event will also feature a
Your Wisconsin Rapids Salon Is Profitable — But Is It Financially Healthy?
Effective financial management for beauty salons means doing more than filling the appointment calendar — it means controlling expenses, diversifying revenue, and planning for the months when business slows. According to 2025 industry research, the U.S. beauty salon industry reached $48.0 billion in revenue across 121,144 companies, with average sales of $0.3 million per location. For salon owners in Wisconsin Rapids, the gap between strong revenue and genuine financial stability is where most of the real
Honor Flight Returns to CWA - 1 June 2026
An Honor Flight will be returning to the Central Wisconsin Airport (CWA) on 1 June 2026. All Veterans and community members are asked to attend if possible. The Honor Flight flys veterans (WWII, Korea, Vietnam) to DC for the day then return back to CWA around 10pm. Cost for the trip is free for Veterans. Their return CWA is a huge public event where the halls are lined to give these Veterans a hearty welcome home. If you can come, please plan to arrive hours in advance, to ensure a parking space. If
Safeguarding Your Small Business: Smart Legal Strategies That Build Trust and Prevent Risk
The Big Picture Every small business in Central Wisconsin faces a common truth — risk isn’t optional, but good preparation is. From contracts to insurance, proactive legal planning is not about paranoia; it’s about stability and credibility.TL;DR Use clear written contracts to define expectations and reduce disputes. Maintain the right insurance coverage — liability, property, cyber, and more. Create employee and operations policies that prevent legal missteps. Understand tools like hold
How Small Businesses Can Compete with Large Competitors: Strategies, Tools & Smart Tactics
In today’s digital economy, smaller companies face the same expectations as enterprise players — instant responses, professional systems, and seamless customer experiences. The good news? You don’t need corporate budgets to perform like one. The right combination of strategy, technology, and visibility can level the field faster than ever. TL;DR Small businesses can compete with larger competitors by focusing on speed, personalization, and professionalism.Key moves include: Automating repetitive
Shifts in the CTA, BOI and FinCEN: Guidance for Wisconsin Rapids, WI Businesses
The Corporate Transparency Act may require certain U.S. companies to disclose beneficial ownership information to FinCEN to combat financial crimes. While a Texas federal district court’s preliminary injunction puts this requirement on hold, many experts expect that to be overturned. In that event, failure to file could lead to fines of $500 per day, up to a maximum of $10,000, and possible criminal penalties. However, filing your Beneficial Ownership Information (BOI) report will help you avoid fines
Supercharge Your Startup’s Journey with Powerful Digital Marketing Solutions
Digital marketing has become essential for startups aiming to grow and establish themselves. Choosing the right strategies requires aligning marketing efforts with business goals to connect meaningfully with the target audience. Concentrating on a handful of effective tactics can strengthen market presence and lay the groundwork for long-term growth. Creative approaches can set a startup apart in the crowded digital landscape.Improve Local Visibility with Strategic SEO To stand out in local search
Wisconsin Rapids Rafters Unveil Exciting 2024 Baseball Season Schedule
Wisconsin Rapids, WI – The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters, a member of the Northwoods League, are thrilled to announce their highly anticipated 2024 season schedule. The 15th Wisconsin Rapids Rafters season will kick off on May 27th with an away game against the Fond du Lac Dock Spiders, followed by Opening Day at Witter Field on May 28th, featuring a showdown against the Dock Spiders with the first pitch scheduled for 6:35 PM. This season promises an action-packed schedule with games scheduled Monday
Wisconsin Rapids Rafters Rekindle ‘Hot Stove’ Event for a Return in 2024
WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wi — The Wisconsin Rapids Rafters are delighted to announce the eagerly awaited “Hot Stove” event, slated to take place at the Hotel Mead & Conference Center’s Ballroom on January 20, 2024, from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM. As the clock ticks towards the upcoming baseball season, the Rafters invite fans and community members to join them for an immersive experience, beginning with a lively Cocktail Hour at 6:00 PM with a cash bar. A buffet style dinner generously provided by Kellner Cafe, will














