Vaccination is the Best Protection Against Flu
Wisconsin Rapids, WI – An annual vaccine is the best way to prevent respiratory influenza (the flu) and its potentially serious complications. Flu is a contagious respiratory illness caused by viruses that infect the nose, throat, and lungs. Flu illness can vary from mild to severe. A flu vaccine can help reduce the spread of flu to individuals at higher risk of developing complications including young children, adults over 60 years of age, and people who are moderately to severely
Strangulation in Domestic Violence: A Deadly, Often Overlooked Threat
WAUSAU, Wis. – October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month, an important time to raise awareness about the serious, often hidden dangers of domestic violence (DV), including one of its deadliest forms: strangulation. Strangulation is not only a violent act but also a major health emergency with both immediate and long-term risks. Strangulation occurs when external pressure is applied to the neck, cutting off blood flow to the brain and preventing breathing. This act can lead to unconsciousness in as
UW-Stevens Point’s Schmeeckle Reserve offers fall programs and Candlelight Hike
Explore the natural world at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point’s Schmeeckle Reserve this fall, with the annual candlelight hike and family nature programs offered free and open to the public. The annual Fall Candlelight Hike will be held at the reserve, 2419 North Point Drive, Stevens Point, from 6-9 p.m., Friday, Nov. 1. Themed “Night of the Living Decomposers,” this family-friendly event offers jack-o’-lantern and torch-lit trails, character programs at 6:30 p.m. and 7:30 p.m., snacks and
Wood County Announces the Launch of Public Health Vending Machines to Enhance Community Well-being
October 2, 2024 – Wisconsin Rapids, WI – As part of its commitment to enhancing community health and accessibility through innovative solutions, Wood County announces the launch of its first public health vending machines which provide free, high-quality health and safety supplies to anyone in need. To ensure that health resources are within reach for everyone, regardless of their situation, the six vending machines have been strategically placed at key locations within Wood County communities that have
Mid-State to host the 2024 Wisconsin Women in Higher Education Leadership Conference
Mid-State Technical College will host the 2024 Wisconsin Women in Higher Education Leadership (WWHEL) Conference on Wednesday, Nov. 13, and Thursday, Nov. 14, at the Wisconsin Rapids Campus. All who work in higher education and interested in career advancement and networking are invited to attend. This year’s WWHEL Conference, The CEO of You: Pairing Balance with the Life You Desire, will focus on work-life balance, career development and wellness. "We are honored here at Mid-State to host this year’s
UW-Stevens Point announces new leadership in conservation roles
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point College of Natural Resources has recently appointed new leaders for three key University of Wisconsin-Extension centers to further its commitment to conservation education, research and community outreach. Steven Hubbard has been named the director of the Wisconsin Forestry Center and a UW-Extension forestry specialist. With a Ph.D. in forestry and wood products from UW-Madison, Hubbard has extensive experience in forest management, product lifecycle
Goodwill NCW’s annual gala inspires community
WISCONSIN – Achievements of a different kind were celebrated at Lambeau Field on October 2, as Goodwill North Central Wisconsin (Goodwill NCW) shared inspirational stories at their second annual Goodwill Starts with You! Gala. More than 650 community leaders from across the region supported the event and heard stories of those whose lives are being transformed through Goodwill NCW’s mission of Elevating People by Eliminating Barriers to Employment, including the following award winners: · Edgar
Aspirus Health Updates Screening Guidelines to Promote Early Detection and Prevention
UPPER PENINSULA, Mich. – In honor of National Primary Care Week (October 7-11), Aspirus Health urges individuals to take charge of their health by seeing their primary care provider for an annual exam. Keeping up with check-ups helps ensure you are also up-to-date on important health screenings. . Early detection through screenings can be lifesaving, helping prevent serious illnesses before they develop and ensuring better outcomes for treatment and long-term wellness. To make early detection more
Take Charge of Your Health: Preventing Gynecologic Cancers Through Awareness and Screening
WOODRUFF, Wis. – The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2024, approximately 13,820 new cases of invasive cervical cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. Despite these alarming numbers, many women remain unaware of the steps they can take to prevent and detect gynecologic cancers early. During Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month, Aspirus Health is encouraging women to prioritize prevention, stay informed, and take advantage of available screenings. “Gynecologic cancers affect the reproductive
Women Trailblazers Conference returns, registration open now
Ignite your voice at the annual Women Trailblazers Conference on Wednesday, Nov. 6, hosted by Continuing Education at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. Inspiring keynotes, breakout sessions, an exhibition fair and networking receptions will take place from 8 a.m.-5 p.m. in the Dreyfus University Center, 1015 Reserve St., Stevens Point. This conference is presented in partnership with the Small Business Development Center of Wisconsin and UW-Stevens Point Sentry School of Business and
Bauernfeind Business Technologies Launches Communications Division
Marshfield-based technology solutions provider Bauernfeind Business Technologies, Inc. (BBT) has announced the creation of their managed voice division. BBT Communications will build on the company’s 70-years of offering best-in-class solutions for organizations of all sizes. The company has offered cloud-based phone solutions for several years, but the launch of the new division represents an increased focus on this segment of the company’s portfolio. “We’ve heard from a number of our customers that are
It’s not always a lump: Breast cancer symptoms vary
WAUSAU, Wis. – October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and Aspirus Health is committed to empowering women with vital information on recognizing the early signs of breast cancer. While most women are aware of the importance of breast self-checks, many of them have only been trained to feel for a lump, or a small mass. A local breast surgeon urges women to also be aware of other potential breast changes which may signal that something is wrong. Cecilia Stroede, MD, a Board-certified breast
Preparing for the 2024-2025 Respiratory Illness Season
WAUSAU, Wis. – As the 2024-2025 respiratory illness season approaches, communities across the region are bracing for the challenges posed by COVID-19, influenza, and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV). With updated vaccines and new recommendations in place, it is more important than ever for individuals to take proactive steps to protect themselves and their loved ones against these serious respiratory illnesses. Dr. Michael Walters, Aspirus Senior Vice President & System Chief Medical Officer,
Empowering Patients Through Research: Aspirus Health's Focus on Cancer Innovations
UPPER PENINSULA, Mich. –This World Cancer Research Day, Aspirus Health emphasizes their ongoing efforts to understand and combat cancer. The latest advancements in cancer research are providing new hope for patients as the field continues to evolve. “Cancer research has evolved significantly in recent years,” says Zuhair Ghanem, MD, Internal Medicine Physician and Oncologist with Aspirus Health. “Key advancements include precision medicine, whichtailors treatment based on individual genetic profiles
The Mid-State Foundation annual Trapshoot Fundraiser raises over $6,000 for student emergency grants
The Mid-State Technical College Foundation, Inc., held its ninth annual Trapshoot Fundraiser on Sept. 20 at the Wisconsin Trapshooting Association in Nekoosa. The event combined fun and friendly competition to raise over $6,000 for emergency grant programs that benefit students in financial need. Fourteen teams and two individuals, totaling 70 participants, competed at the event. The two highest-scoring teams, top female, top male and top youth were awarded cash prizes.First place team: Team KrauseSecond
Aspirus Health and the Wisconsin Institute for Healthy Aging Join Forces to Prevent Falls
WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. – Falls are a growing public health concern in the Upper Midwest, with Michigan identifying them as the leading cause of injury, Minnesota experiencing rising hospitalizations among older adults, and Wisconsin reporting a significant increase in fall injuries. David Rae, Trauma Coordinator at Aspirus Riverview Hospital, states, “Falls represent roughly 70 percent of all injuries in our emergency department.” The risk of falling increases significantly with age, especially for
Managing Pain Responsibly: Aspirus Shares Tips on Avoiding Opioid Misuse
“Often, over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can be more effective than opioids.” UPPER PENINSULA, Mich. – The opioid crisis has undergone a dramatic transformation over the past decade, shifting from an issue primarily related to prescription painkillers to a broad public health emergency now driven by heroin and the highly potent fentanyl. According to recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), synthetic opioids, primarily fentanyl, were involved in
Mid-State Technical College awarded $1.8 Million U.S. Department of Commerce grant to support workforce development in Wisconsin
Mid-State Technical College will receive a $1.8 million grant from the U.S. Commerce Department’s Economic Development Administration (EDA) for building renovations needed to boost workforce development in the region. The award was announced last week by U.S. Secretary of Commerce Gina Raimondo. This grant will be used to create a workforce development center on the Adams Campus to provide training in the healthcare, welding and construction sectors. This EDA investment will be matched with $1.8 million in
Pain Management Specialists Offer Solutions for Chronic Pain
“Our goal in pain management is to help patients reduce their reliance on medication and increase their functionality and activity level.” WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. – Chronic pain can be devastating, interfering with a person’s ability to work, perform daily activities, and simply enjoy life. It can also lead to mental health challenges, such as depression and anxiety. During Chronic Pain Awareness Month, Aspirus Health offers hope to the one in five American adults suffering from chronic pain. Pain
Understanding Sepsis: Early Detection and Action Can Save Lives
“If you notice these symptoms, seek medical care promptly, whether through an emergency department, a walk-in clinic, or a primary care specialist.” WAUSAU, Wis. – Every year, sepsis silently strikes down at least 1.7 million adults in the United States, a staggering number that continues to rise. As the population ages, antibiotic resistance grows, and more individuals manage chronic diseases, the threat of sepsis looms larger than ever. September is Sepsis Awareness Month, dedicated to educating the
UW-Stevens Point sees another year of enrollment increases
The University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point saw growth in first-year, graduate and total enrollment for the 2024-25 academic year, according to official information from the first day of classes. This fall saw a 6% increase in graduate student enrollment, a 3% increase in first-year students/transfer enrollment and a 3% increase in total full-time enrollment at UW-Stevens Point. There has also been increased enrollment from new markets outside of Wisconsin. "UW-Stevens Point saw the largest growth
Mid-State emphasizes the changing workforce landscape during annual K-12 counselor meeting
Mid-State Technical College hosted 20 of its K-12 partners from local high schools on Sept. 12 to give updates on the College and the changing workforce landscape. The event was held at the Advanced Manufacturing, Engineering Technology, and Apprenticeship (AMETA™) Center, Mid-State’s cutting-edge training facility, now open and preparing students to join central Wisconsin’s next generation workforce. According to Jackie Esselman, Mid-State’s dean of Recruitment and Admissions, the AMETA Center and the
City Issues razing/demolition permit for portions of the former papermill
WISCONSIN RAPIDS – The City of Wisconsin Rapids this week issued a Razing/Demolition permit to MRD Group Inc. (MRD), based in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, for portions of the former papermill in the City. PCR Rapids 1 Op, LLC (PCR), the owner of the property, was issued a Class 3 Salvage Permit by the City in April 2024, with plans to eventually contract with a salvage/demolition company for the kraft mill. PCR’s partnership with MRD will not only focus on salvaging and scrapping the kraft mill, but also Paper
How Entrepreneurs Can Leverage Digital Innovation to Grow Their Businesses
These days, entrepreneurs have an opportunity to harness the power of technology to grow their businesses. With the rise of data analytics, artificial intelligence (AI), mobile apps, and automation tools, it’s easier than ever to streamline processes, optimize performance, and attract and retain customers. Today, we’ll explore how entrepreneurs can use digital innovation to scale their businesses and stay ahead of the competition. Secure Your Files with PDFs Utilizing password-protected PDFs
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
Harvesting Profits: Top Tips to Monetize Your Homesteading Hobby
For many homesteaders, their hobby farm is not just a labor of love, but also a potential source of income. Turning your passion into a profitable venture can be an exciting and rewarding journey. This article contains tips and strategies to help you monetize your hobby farm successfully.Utilizing Online Tools for Document Management In the digital age, numerous online tools make it easy to access your most important business documents no matter where you are — even if you’re in the literal field of your
Revitalize Your Small Business Website For Success in Uncertain Economic Times
With the uncertainty of the economy, it is more important than ever to make sure that your small business has a strong online presence. This can be done through website updates, secure PDFs, SEO tactics, and competitive content. Making these changes to your business website can help boost sales and give you peace of mind. The Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce is here to help with these simple tips; let's get started.Utilize a Call-to-Action Having a call-to-action on your website encourages visitors
Strengthening Your Small Business: A Comprehensive Guide
Running a small business can be challenging, especially when it comes to managing financial and operational problems that arise. That's why we here at the Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce have gathered some tips to help you strengthen your business and get back on track. Let's take a look:Pare Down Product Offerings Having too many products can hurt your bottom line as there is an increased cost associated with producing more items. Consider cutting down on excess product offerings that don’t
