Good morning, Appleton.

Six years ago, on May 15, 2019, firefighter Mitch Lundgaard was shot and killed while serving his community—leaving behind a wife, three boys, and lasting memories among neighbors and friends.

Appleton Parks and Recreation announced that construction on the Lundgaard Park Pavilion will begin this month to honor his legacy.

Habitat for Humanity has kicked off the annual Rock the Block event as hundreds of volunteers work in Appleton neighborhoods to improve homes, schools and community areas.

Volunteers will complete projects over a three-day period (40 sites) that include tree trimming, repainting exteriors and other needed repairs.

The new indoor sports practice facility at Appleton West is named for educator Claudine and Jim Happel, who paid $250,000 for naming rights—Principal Joshua Chudacoff said the funds will support other projects.

The facility will be dedicated next fall.

Fox Valley Technical College launched an onsite paramedic training program — partnering with satellite sites at the Grand Chute Fire Department, Gold Cross Ambulance Service Inc., and Waushara County Emergency Medical Services — to let emergency personnel train while still working full time.

Appleton delayed enforcing truancy fines after voting on Wednesday to hold off on issuing tickets to students missing 50 or more days, as rising absences—293 high school students have already exceeded that threshold—have left hundreds off track to graduate.

The school district will hold listening sessions in late August or September to gather community input and design new support measures.

On May 15, Rep. Lee Snodgrass held a press conference to introduce the 2025 Pollinator Protection Package—seven bills designed to protect pollinators and their natural habitats.

The package aims to support bumblebees, butterflies, bats, birds, and beetles that are vital for Wisconsin crops.

Appleton officials are examining plans to change the 100 block of North Oneida from one-way to two-way traffic—Traffic Engineer Eric Lom said patients at Mosaic Health Clinic have been driving the wrong direction—and the street is wide enough to allow for on-street parking.

Abbey Jorgenson Book Signing

12-2 p.m. — The Book Store — Free entry — Meet author Abbey Jorgenson and discuss their new mystery, Hell’s Half Acre, while getting your books signed.

Light the Night Market

5-10 p.m. — Appleton Downtown, Inc. — Free entry — Enjoy a family-friendly evening filled with fun, food, and local culture.

MJ The Musical

7 p.m. — Fox Cities Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices may vary — Celebrate the life and music of Michael Jackson in this exciting Tony-winning musical.

MJ: The Musical

7:30-9 p.m. — Fox Cities Performing Arts Center — Ticket prices vary — Experience the captivating life story of Michael Jackson through music and dance.

Heid Music Summer Concert Series

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Jones Park — Free entry — Enjoy a summer evening filled with free music from local bands in Downtown Appleton.

Nashville Pipeline Live at Kountry Bar

8 PM — Kountry Bar — Free entry — Enjoy a night of live music with Nashville Pipeline in Appleton's favorite venue.

Appleton City Golf Tournament

7 AM – 2 PM — Reid Municipal Golf Course — Entry fees vary — Compete in a 36-hole stroke play tournament across multiple divisions.

Father's Day Celebration at the BFK

5:00 a.m. — Appleton Downtown, Inc. — Free entry — Celebrate dads with art activities and family fun at the museum.