Good morning, Appleton.

VFW Post 2126 in Menasha launched its annual two-day food drive with a brat fry on Thursday that ran from 6 a.m. until 6 p.m. and the event continues today with a brat fry from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.—all proceeds support local food pantries.

Next Level Pickleball announced it will close its Green Bay location on Tuesday, September 16 as it focuses on expanding its thriving facility in Appleton.

The company will sell off equipment—nets, paddles, court surface, benches, and a 75-inch TV—and offer discounts for community members before the closure.

Teacher Paul Miller at Appleton East High School made a new back-to-school song parody — a Broadway showstopper — that involved many staff and took months to film.

He hopes the parody will help students feel brave and try new things as they return to school.

Appleton Area School District officials reported that the projected budget deficit for next year has grown beyond the original $13-million estimate and will deplete nearly all reserve funds — the School Board will vote next month on a referendum to cover recurring costs in spring.

Sandy Slope Elementary in Appleton welcomed students on August 26 with only minor issues in hallway routines, and Principal Joe Bernhardt said the school adjusted quickly.

The district will hold a ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 17 at 5:30 p.m. + community members are invited to enjoy guided tours and refreshments.

Schools across northeast Wisconsin honored 9/11 victims with service and remembrance on Thursday—Green Bay West High School held a bleacher climb to symbolize first responders' efforts while Oshkosh North High School students collected donations for local families.

Local fire crews and National Guard members joined the events, making the day a heartfelt tribute to those lost.

Officials announced that northbound on- and off-ramps at the WIS 15/Northland Avenue interchange with I-41 will open late Monday while southbound ramps remain closed until fall—this new diverging diamond design is expected to improve traffic flow and reduce crash risks.

Appleton Common Council delayed the vote on a truancy ordinance until Sept.

24—after two hours of debate over how enforcement and oversight would work. School officials say the measure is meant as a last resort for a small group of students, while residents remain split on its impact.

Senate Bill 33 is headed to Governor Evers' desk today after three state senators introduced the measure to protect victims of deep-fake pornography.

The proposed law will also make hacking or stealing explicit images a felony — a step to reduce non-consensual cyber abuse.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation and local officials said the new layout for the WIS 15/Northland Avenue Diverging Diamond Interchange will open next Monday—aiming to improve safety by making left turns easier in Appleton.

The upgrade is part of an Interstate 41 expansion that will add extra lanes between Appleton and De Pere.

DIY Porch Planter Workshop

6-9 p.m. — Board & Brush Creative Studio - Appleton — Pre-registration required — Create a beautiful DIY porch planter with step-by-step instructions and a variety of materials.

Oktoberfest and the German-American Experience in Appleton

6-7 p.m. — Hearthstone Historic House Museum — Free entry — Explore the complex history of Appleton's German heritage and its connection to Oktoberfest celebrations.

The Stews Live Performance

6:30-8:30 p.m. — Appleton Beer Factory — Cover charge TBD — Experience a blended genre rock performance from The Stews, a band that defies traditional sounds.

Medusa Concert

7:30-9:30 p.m. — Harper Hall — Tickets available — Experience Medusa's unique blend of folk music influenced by diverse cultural sounds.

Fall & Halloween Make & Take Workshop

10 AM - 12 PM — Board & Brush Creative Studio - Appleton — $20 — Create festive decor while enjoying a family-friendly atmosphere with step-by-step guidance.

DIY Porch Planter Workshop

6-9 p.m. — Board & Brush Creative Studio - Appleton — Pre-registration required — Create your own beautiful porch planter with provided materials and expert guidance.