Good morning, Appleton.

On July 25, 100 Vietnam veterans took a free Yellow Ribbon Honor Flight to Washington, D.C. and returned to AirVenture where supporters cheered them with American flags — a warm homecoming that marked a change from past receptions — as Leroy Petry said the flight gave them the welcome they had missed.

Michael Thorpe, 40, was sentenced yesterday to 16 years in prison and 11 years of extended supervision—he was convicted for his role in a Grand Chute coin store robbery that saw a man in disguise assault an employee with a wrench.

Visitors from 71 countries attended EAA AirVenture on July 24, drawing fans from Europe, Australia, and South America — organizers later held a parade on Friday around noon to celebrate the international turnout.

Deputies announced on Friday that Center Valley Road from Meade Street to Ballard Road is closed for about two weeks after a culvert collapsed — crews are repairing the culvert — drivers should use alternate routes.

Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez announced her run for governor on her 50th birthday after Gov. Tony Evers chose not to seek a third term — she said she would focus on improving health care, education, and reproductive rights in a competitive 2026 race.

Governor Tony Evers announced he will not run for re-election in 2026, which leaves an open race for both parties.

Voters can expect competitive primaries as candidates begin planning for the upcoming election.

Terror Twilight Track Meet

6-8 p.m. — Alexander Gym — Open to all ages and abilities — Experience a community track meet that's now in its seventh year.

Mile Of Music Festival 2025

12:00 PM – 11:59 PM — Houdini Plaza — Free entry — Experience a diverse lineup of talented artists at this vibrant music festival in Appleton.

Black Note Graffiti at Mile of Music

12-3 a.m. — Mile Of Music — Free entry — Experience live performances from over 200 artists during this vibrant music festival in Downtown Appleton.

Mile of Music Festival

1-8:10 p.m. — Lawrence Memorial Chapel — Free entry — Experience a vibrant celebration of original music at a community-focused festival.

DSAW Timber Rattler Game

1:10-4:10 p.m. — Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium — $18.39 per ticket — Enjoy a summer day at the ballpark while supporting ADVOCAP.

HALF EMPTY Concert at Jones Park

5:30-8:30 p.m. — Jones Park — Free entry — Enjoy a vibrant live performance by HALF EMPTY in a beautiful outdoor setting.

Phoenix Con 4

Open gaming and social events — Aug 13-17 — Hilton Appleton Paper Valley — Entry details not listed — Dive into the ultimate role-playing game experience in Appleton.

Great Lakes Loons vs. Wisconsin Timber Rattlers

1–4 p.m. — Neuroscience Group Field at Fox Cities Stadium — Special community event — Enjoy an afternoon of baseball as the Timber Rattlers face off against the Great Lakes Loons.

Parish Fest

11 AM – 2 AM — 222 E Fremont St, Appleton, WI — Check site for costs — Celebrate with live music, food, and fun activities in a vibrant community atmosphere.