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
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
The Aspen Institute names Mid-State Technical College as a semifinalist for $1 million Aspen Prize
Mid-State named one of 25 community colleges advancing in national prize recognizing excellent student outcomes Today, the Aspen Institute (Aspen) named Mid-State Technical College as one of 25 semifinalists for the 2027 Aspen Prize for Community College Excellence. Rooted in deep research and backed by $1 million in award money, the Aspen Prize is the nation’s signature recognition of community colleges that deliver value for their students. “This recognition from the Aspen Institute is both an honor
Mid-State students earn Reserve Grand Champion at statewide meat processors competition
Students in Mid-State Technical College’s Advanced Meat Cutting and Butchery program earned Reserved Grand Champion honors in the Fresh Traditional Bratwurst category at the 2026 Wisconsin Specialty Meat Championships, held in conjunction with the Wisconsin Association of Meat Processors (WAMP) Convention. Competing against nearly 800 entries from professional meat processors across the state and beyond, Mid-State students stood out in one of the most competitive divisions of the event. The Wisconsin
City announces reconstruction project for East Jackson Street.
WISCONSIN RAPIDS – The City of Wisconsin Rapids will begin reconstruction of East Jackson Street this month, from East Grand Avenue to the Jackson Street bridge in downtown Wisconsin Rapids. Work will be completed in two phases: •Phase 1 will run from East Grand Avenue to 3rd Street/Market Street. This section is scheduled to close to through traffic beginning April 29. •Phase2 will run from 3rd Street/Market Street to the Jackson Street bridge and is expected to begin July 13. In addition to replacing
Call for Sponsors, Donors & Vendors for Rapids Riverside Freedom Fest
Wisconsin Rapids, WI - The City of Wisconsin Rapids, in partnership with local organizations and community supporters, is proud to introduce a brand-new Independence Day celebration: Rapids Riverside Freedom Fest. This exciting new event will create a lively riverside experience that brings the community together to celebrate patriotism and local pride, featuring a full day of activities in downtown Wisconsin Rapids and culminating in a spectacular fireworks display. Designed to unite residents and
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
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
