Good morning, Appleton.

On March 26th, the NEW Zoo said escaped river otters Louie and Ophelia were seen repeatedly near a live trap in Suamico—raccoons disrupted early capture efforts so staff installed new raccoon proof traps and ask for sightings with photos or videos.

Calumet County authorities reported that a child died from injuries sustained in an early morning house fire near New Holstein at about 2:08 a.m. Wednesday—first responders attempted lifesaving measures before the child was pronounced dead, and the cause of the fire is under investigation.

Deputies responded to a report of a bar fight in the Town of Freedom at around 10:30 p.m. Tuesday—one man with a knife wound was flown to hospital in stable condition and another was arrested on charges of First Degree Recklessly Endangering Safety and Disorderly Conduct.

One man was stabbed during a fight outside a Freedom bar Tuesday night and was flown to a hospital where his condition is stable; deputies+ arrived at 10:30 p.m. and a suspect who cooperated with officers+ was taken into custody on charges of disorderly conduct and recklessly endangering safety.

The race for the state Department of Public Instruction superintendent is heating up as incumbent Jill Underly faces challenger Brittany Kinser—who lacks a teaching license—in the upcoming April 1 election, with debates held this spring and fundraising gaps highlighting key issues such as vouchers, teacher shortages and testing benchmarks. Officials said the contest has drawn statewide attention while voters weigh these factors before casting their ballots.

Volunteers are invited to join the revamped Sturgeon Guard program as a partnership with the DNR helps protect sturgeon during spawning season set to begin mid-April to early May.

The program, paused during the pandemic due to low participation, asks community members to report disturbances by calling the DNR Tipline (1-800-847-9367) with water temperatures needing to reach 50°F (currently around 37°F in the Wolf River).

Appleton-area voters will use a new voter guide for the April 1 nonpartisan election to decide on contests for local offices and statewide roles (including justice for the Supreme Court, state superintendent of public instruction, and a voter ID referendum).

Polls will be open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., and the guide provides key details on contested local races (such as the Appleton Board of Education and Common Council) and steps to check voter registration.

Spring Break Parent/Child Woodworking Workshop

10 a.m. – 12 p.m. — Board & Brush Creative Studio - Appleton — Pre-registration required — Create cherished decor together while enjoying hot cocoa and cookies.

Sister's Easter Catechism: Will My Bunny Go to Heaven?

7:30-9 p.m. — Fox Cities Performing Arts Center — Cost info not provided — Laugh along as Sister answers delightful Easter questions with humor and participation.

Wisconsin Music Trivia Night

7-9 p.m. | McFleshman's Brewing Co. | Free to play | Test your Wisconsin music knowledge and win prizes at a lively trivia night.

John R Miller Live Performance

7-10 p.m. — Appleton Beer Factory — Ticket prices vary — Experience a night of captivating music with John R Miller in an intimate setting.

Studio Y Dance Recital

11 AM - 2 PM — Fox Cities Performing Arts Center — Support local talent — Experience a delightful showcase of dancers from various age groups and skill levels.

Appleton Podcast Co-op LIVE

7-9 p.m. — McFleshman's Brewing Co. — Free entry — Enjoy an evening of live podcast recordings with laughter, insights, and giveaways.

Katha Dance Theatre Performance

7:30-9 p.m. — Fox Cities Performing Arts Center — Check website for ticket info — Experience a captivating performance by Katha Dance Theatre featuring mesmerizing dance styles.

The Simon and Garfunkel Story

7:30-9 p.m. — Fox Cities Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the timeless music and story of the legendary folk duo Simon & Garfunkel.

DIY Porch Planter Workshop

6-9 p.m. — Board & Brush Creative Studio — Pre-registration required — Create a unique planter for your porch with provided materials and guidance.

Spring Holiday Gift and Craft Show

8 AM – 4 PM — Fox Cities Expo Center — Admission fee may apply — Discover unique vintage and handmade goods from local vendors.