Good morning, Appleton.

The Grand Chute Fire Department is wearing red all week to honor firefighter Seth Barr (deployed with his Appleton-based Army National Guard unit to the Middle East) who will return home this summer.

Team members have sent photos and messages to show their support.

Green Bay School Board picked Michael Hernandez as its new superintendent, choosing the Appleton assistant superintendent.

The board voted on March 6 to begin contract negotiations and will deliberate from March 9, with Hernandez expected to start on July 1.

Local schools in Appleton rely on patchwork federal funds + local referendums for career and technical education as Wisconsin remains one of few states without dedicated state funding.

Superintendent Jill Underly sought $45 million during the latest budget process to provide even access and address local workforce needs.

The state Department of Transportation will close French Rd. in Appleton and Buchanan St. in Little Chute on Monday, Mar.

9 at 6 a.m. for bridge removal work on I-41, with closures expected to last through the summer.

Officials warn that ice rescue season has begun as the bay’s ice breaks up this weekend & conditions are expected to worsen Sunday with winds up to 35 mph and highs in the 50s; residents are advised to monitor local ice safety before venturing onto the water.

The Cornerstone Community Center is progressing on the new Schneider Family Arena with over half the construction complete and plans to expand youth hockey sessions and host national tournaments.

The project is $2.5 million short of its $23 million goal and will open in the fall.

Nick Vitrano of 95.9 KISS FM will face competitive eater Joey Chestnut in an eating contest for a brattoberfest platter at Fox Cities Stadium on August 28.

Vitrano, a longtime fan of Chestnut, said the invitation came as a surprise.

Medicare 101 Seminar

6-7 p.m. — 5 Star Insurance Group, LLC — Free entry — Learn about Medicare coverage options and make informed healthcare decisions.

Medicare 101 Seminar

1-2 p.m. — 5 Star Insurance Group, LLC — Free entry — Educational seminar to help navigate Medicare coverage options and make informed healthcare decisions.

Kevin James in Appleton

8-11 p.m. — Fox Cities Performing Arts Center — Ticket info available — Experience a night of laughs with comedian Kevin James in Appleton.

Midwest Showdown Basketball Tournament

April 3-4 — Community First Champion Center — Admission fees may apply — Watch fierce competition as teams battle it out in this exciting basketball tournament.