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
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
News Release: A Christmas Message of Hope
This holiday season, experience a truly unforgettable evening of worship and holiday music along with sharing the message of love, hope, grace and mercy that can only be found through faith in Jesus. ?????? Performances by Jorden Michael, Rodney Ashcraft. Intertwined in the music you will hear encouraging and uplifting messages from Jorden and Rodney of repentance and deliverance from a life of drug and alcohol addiction. Nicole Kaetterhenry will share how leaning on God and her faith in Christ helps her
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
Mid-State Technical College launches Mid-State Meat Market: A new public-facing store showcasing student craftsmanship
Mid-State Technical College proudly announces the opening of the Mid-State Meat Market, an exciting new venture where the public can purchase premium meats crafted with skill and care by students in the College’s meat cutting and butchery programs. The Mid-State Meat Market offers a selection of handcrafted specialty meats and old-world style sausage products that reflect the precision and artistry taught in Mid-State's classrooms. Each item is an example of the College’s focus on quality, safety and
Mid-State opens spring registration
Courses for university students, lifelong learners and community members Registration is now open for Mid-State Technical College’s Spring 2026 semester, offering a wide range of credit and non-credit courses designed to meet the needs of students, working adults and community members across central Wisconsin. Spring classes begin Jan. 26., with additional winterim class options beginning on Jan. 5. The timing is ideal for students to plan ahead—whether adding a course to stay on track toward a degree or
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
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
