Assumption’s Matt Zakowski brings the July update. As Director of Advancement/Alumni relations, Matt discusses upcoming summer events with Assumption Catholic Schools. The highlight is the 38th Annual Royal Golf Scramble, a vital fundraiser for the athletic department, with day-of registration still open. Plus, explore the Wisconsin Parental Choice Program for tuition assistance before the July 20th deadline. Enjoy a private family night at the Wisconsin Rapids Aquatic Center on August 9th. The school year kicks off with critical parent meetings and the Little Royals Roundup. Get ready for Mary Poppins the Musical, a major fundraiser, showcasing local talent in November. Also, join the excitement of bingo with proceeds supporting various school programs.

Port Edwards School District’s Blackhawk Golf Scramble hit a hole-in-one by raising nearly $8,000, a 33% leap from last year, funding scholarships and classroom enhancements. Amidst these achievements, the district tackles major construction, replacing pipelines and HVAC systems in buildings dating back to the 1920s and 1968. The upgrades aim to modernize and maintain safe, efficient schools. However, the district faces financial challenges due to $440,000 siphoned off by the voucher program in the 2025-2026 school year, highlighting a need for transparency about taxpayer funds’ allocation. Despite these hurdles, the construction projects remain under budget, demonstrating fiscal responsibility and community commitment.

The Wood County Sheriff’s Department July update is with Chief Deputy Quentin Ellis on local events, safety initiatives, and scams. The ‘Back the Badge’ bench press event and Andrew Mueller fundraiser highlighted community support for law enforcement and medical preparedness. Ellis praised training partnerships with Mid-State Technical College for enhancing leadership within the department. The episode warns of ongoing scams, urging vigilance against fraudulent calls demanding payment via gift cards or Bitcoin. Ellis also emphasizes e-bike safety and the legal distinction among them. Amid extensive road construction, he advises patience and caution, stressing the importance of adhering to detour signs for community safety.

Wisconsin Rapids July update with Mayor Matt Zacher covers the city’s ambitious plans for the 4th of July Freedom Fest, featuring bands, a flyover, and a variety of activities. The discussion highlights community involvement in event planning and the importance of public feedback via the city’s website. Mayor Zacher emphasizes the city’s ongoing downtown revitalization efforts, including the farmers market expansion and street reconfigurations to encourage pedestrian traffic. They also delve into the complexities of implementing a sex offender ordinance and the importance of community safety. Zacher invites residents to engage with local government for a thriving, connected community.

Melissa Kaye chats with Melanie Hanneman, Director of Food Services for Wisconsin Rapids Public School District, about the complexities of school nutrition. Discover how feeding nearly 3,000 students daily is akin to catering a wedding, with USDA regulations guiding menu choices. The district’s summer food program offers free meals to anyone under 18, thanks to federal funding. Innovative hydroponic towers engage students in growing fresh veggies, enhancing educational experiences. Community donations to the Food Service Angel Fund has reduced lunch debt to zero so kids can start next school year with a clean slate. Hanneman’s team champions nutritious meals, proving that feeding kids is vital for their growth and learning.

Wood County Board Chair Lance Pliml chats about hosting the Wisconsin County Forest Association, showcasing 38,000 acres of managed county forest, a vital resource both for recreation and revenue. Pliml highlights improvements at Marshfield fairgrounds and the strategic use of ARPA funds—$11 million dedicated to capital projects in the county, ensuring a lasting legacy. Powers Bluff upgrades are nearly complete, and a new Safe Haven Baby Box arrives to safeguard infants. Staffing challenges at Norwood and broader healthcare workforce issues are acknowledged, urging community input for solutions.

Senator Patrick Testin’s June update discusses the stalled tax relief package amid Wisconsin’s $2.5 billion surplus, emphasizing bipartisan negotiations for tax rebates and property tax relief, while lamenting the Senate’s narrow failure to pass the deal. The dialogue shifts to education, with Testin defending school vouchers against concerns about transparency and accountability. June Dairy Month highlights Wisconsin’s dairy industry’s economic impact. Testin’s ‘On-the-Job’ series features a hood cleaning business, sparking a push for statewide licensing. Testin also tackles the campaign committee role amidst a chaotic election season, advocating for positivity in politics.

South Wood County Neighbors for Responsible Development members, Audrey Day and Emily Oetzman, rally against a proposed hyperscale data center. They’re a grassroots group advocating for responsible development, highlighting concerns about water consumption, pollution, and infrastructure strain. Their initial event drew hundreds, revealing widespread skepticism about data centers’ benefits versus costs. They question the transparency and community impact of such projects, emphasizing how power and resource consumption could hike local costs. They urge citizens to engage with city officials, striving for enforceable regulations and community benefit agreements to protect local interests.

Assumption Catholic Schools celebrate a stellar performance at the WIAA State Track Meet, with standout athletes like Bella Thomas and Lucy Dolan setting records. As the Royals revel in their victories, they’re also gearing up for summer with the ‘Stay Smart’ program to combat the summer slump. The Material Girls Quilt Show promises a splash of color and craftsmanship, while the ACS Night with the Rafters offers tailgating fun and baseball. The 38th Annual Royal Golf Scramble tees up fundraising excitement, and families anticipate a splash at the exclusive Aquatic Center night. Changes ahead: sixth graders stay at St. Vincent de Paul!

Jim Bena, Port Edwards District Administrator, highlights the 20th Blackhawk Scramble on June 22nd, a key fundraiser for the Port Edwards Education Foundation. The event features exciting additions like a golf cannon and sponsorship opportunities. Bena also recaps the Dream Flight STEM Space Shuttle visit, sparking students’ interest in science, and the fun-filled end-of-year carnival organized by the Port Edwards Parent Organization. The district celebrates milestones with staff and retirees, and plans for the Port Edwards Community Picnic on July 21st. Summer construction updates include major HVAC renovations and asbestos abatement at Ed Heuer Elementary School.