Good morning, Appleton.

Wisconsin residents received texts that falsely promise full Amazon refunds without returns, and the FTC warned on July 24th to ignore these messages (look for unfamiliar senders) and report them (by texting 7726) to help fight fraud.

Downtown Appleton was full of music this weekend as Mile of Music concluded its 12th year with over 200 artists performing on College Avenue—drawing thousands of fans from near and far.

Appleton Community Music, Inc. raised funds for artist hospitality and is planning for Mile 13 in 2026.

On July 29, beef prices hit a record high with ground beef at $6.12 per pound and steak at $11.49, which led shoppers to choose different cuts.

Wisconsin farmers say low cattle numbers from COVID-19 and a past drought are driving up costs—some markets that process their own beef report steadier prices, though experts expect balance to come slowly.

Appleton schools and the city held a public listening session Monday at 5:30 p.m. at Appleton Public Library — the meeting allowed community input on a proposed plan to cite families when students have unexcused absences.

Today, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources re-extended the statewide air quality alert until noon because Canadian wildfire smoke has made the air unhealthy for 22 days this year.

The National Weather Service tells kids, older adults, and people with breathing or heart problems to stay indoors—residents in Appleton and nearby counties should take extra care.

Wisconsin health departments prepared for a possible measles outbreak by running simulation exercises and updating staffing and contact tracing plans, and Oconto County confirmed nine cases (all linked to out of state travel).

Officials advise residents to verify their measles, mumps and rubella vaccine status to ensure they are protected.

Officials with the Milwaukee Brewers said on Sunday that their top prospects—ranked No. 1 and No. 2 by MLB Pipeline—moved from the Single-A Carolina Mudcats to the High-A Wisconsin Timber Rattlers.

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.