Tree Tech 2025 highlights high-demand arboriculture careers and hands-on industry connections
Next event announced for November 6, 2026 Mid-State’s Tree Tech 2025 was held Nov. 14 at the Wisconsin Rapids Campus. The day was a showcase of hands-on arboriculture training for high school juniors and seniors as well as the College’s Arboriculture students, alums and industry partners. The event highlighted the versatility, excitement and growing career demand within the arboriculture industry, an essential field supporting environmental health, community safety and critical infrastructure
Goodwill NCW remains a great holiday option for budget conscious consumers
The National Retail Federation (NRF) forecasts that holiday spending is expected to reach $1 trillion for the first time during the winter holidays. NRF’s latest holiday survey, conducted by Prosper Insights & Analytics, found consumers plan to spend just over $890 per person on average on core holiday items including gifts, decorations, food and other holiday-related purchases this year. This year, 91% of consumers plan to celebrate the winter holidays, and, according to the survey, part of their shopping
Angel Laidlaw named Mid-State Technical College 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient
Mid-State Technical College has named Angel Laidlaw, president and CEO of Centergy, Inc., as its 2025 Distinguished Alumni Award recipient. “Angel’s story is a powerful example of the transformative impact of technical education,” said Nikki Dhein, Foundation & Alumni director. “Her leadership, commitment to community and continued partnership with Mid-State truly embody what this award represents. We are honored to recognize her accomplishments and the many ways she continues to strengthen our region.” A
Prevail Bank Awards Ruby's Pantry $500
Prevail Bank recently distributed 20 charitable contribution checks totaling $47,000 to support community programs across central Wisconsin. Ruby’s Pantry was one; it received $500 to purchase turkeys for this past Thanksgiving. They served approximately 400 people. “Community is at the heart of everything we do,” said Nathan Quinnell, President and CEO of Prevail Bank. “As a community bank, our mission goes beyond banking—we’re committed to making a difference and helping our communities thrive.” Other
Mid-State’s fall graduation set for December 13
Mid-State Technical College will host its mid-year graduation with an indoor ceremony at the Wisconsin Rapids Campus at 11:00 a.m. Saturday, Dec. 13. The event is designed to celebrate all graduating students, their families and invited guests. Cosmetology graduate Crystal Scheibe, Wisconsin Rapids, will deliver the student address. The faculty send-off will be delivered by Stacy Brock, Cosmetology and Barber Technologist instructor. The event will also feature a keynote address from Benjamin Peters,
Quality Employee Healthcare Now Available for Chamber Members Through Anovia Partnership
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Quality Employee Healthcare Now Available for Chamber Members Through Anovia Partnership Wisconsin Rapids, WI – December 4, 2025 The Heart of Wisconsin Chamber of Commerce is proud to announce a new partnership with Anovia Health, offering Chamber members exclusive access to Direct Provider Care for just $39 per employee per month. This partnership gives local businesses an affordable way to provide employees with high-quality, accessible healthcare. The Direct Provider Care model
Season of Giving 2025
“A SEASON OF GIVING” Coloring Book raises funds for the United Way Quality Plus Printing is proud to announce the 4th annual printing of “A Season of Giving” coloring book. Over 2,000 coloring books are being distributed (free of charge) to local nonprofit organizations and agencies that that help care for children in our community. Due to the generosity of the sponsors of the project, a check of $5,000 will be given to the United Way of South Wood and Adams Counties to help local nonprofits during the
Central Wisconsin Cultural Center Announces New Name: Olio Arts & Music Center
WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. — Central Wisconsin Cultural Center announced that it will now be doing business as Olio Arts & Music Center. The name change reflects the organization’s expanded focus on both the visual and performing arts and its continued commitment to fostering creativity and community connection. “Olio” — meaning a creative mix — represents the Center’s evolution into a space where diverse art forms and creative experiences come together. “Our mission has always been about bringing people
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
Childcaring Offers Grants to Strengthen Early Childhood Support
(Wood County, WI) - The Wood County Child Care Task Force is pleased to announce another round of Child Care Capacity Building Grants! The group has been working on this initiative for the past several years thanks to a Dream Up strategic planning grant and Wood County ARPA funds received by Wood County Health Department. Task Force members have been meeting regularly, gathering input from child care providers and families, requesting funding to support a variety of strategies and keeping county board
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
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
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
