Good morning, Appleton.

Federal funding for local libraries and museums is set to end this month after an executive order led to cuts from IMLS.

Library and museum leaders warned that losing funds will hurt access to shared computer resources and affect exhibits such as the Appleton History Museum's 'You Are Here'—especially in small communities.

On Friday morning in Kaukauna, first-year apprentices signed a contract at the Local 400 training center to begin five-year careers in pipe trades—contractors will cover their training so graduates finish debt-free.

The signings marked fresh starts for trades like steam fitting and vehicle mechanics, with participants such as Magdalene Fett and Kristopher Carbine stepping into new roles.

Students at Lawrence University shared their concerns on free speech after Charlie Kirk's death, with some new arrivals on Friday saying social media posts are polarizing ideas—calling for debates that focus on issues rather than personal attacks.

Kirk was killed at the first stop of his American Comeback campus tour, which was set to visit 14 colleges.

A Powerball ticket bought at a local Kwik Trip on Wednesday won $100,000 after the Power Play option doubled the normal $50,000 prize—adding to the store's history of big wins.

The winner must sign the ticket and contact the lottery office within 180 days.

Grand Chute Police Department honored retiring police chief Greg Peterson during Friday's town board meeting—he served 45 years in law enforcement, starting with the Appleton Police Department and later leading as interim chief during merger talks; David Maas is set to assume the role on September 15.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation announced Friday that the Amtrak I-41 Thruway Bus Service between Green Bay & Milwaukee will end on October 1 due to a contractual dispute and budget limitations.

The six-year service connected riders to Hiawatha trains with stops in De Pere, Appleton, Oshkosh, Fond du Lac and Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport.

The U.S. Army reversed its plan to cut the ROTC unit at UW-Oshkosh—now it will operate as an extension unit of Marquette University's program rather than as a host unit.

This change came after community feedback and concerns were raised when the cuts were first announced in June.

Coast Guard veteran Jorel Wester, who dealt with PTSD after missions during 9/11 and Hurricane Katrina, found help through K9s for Warriors and a service dog named Betsy—whose companionship sparked his recovery.

He now shares his story to help other veterans find hope.

Following a 27-18 win over Washington on Thursday night, the Packers started their season 2-0 as fans chanted 'thank you, Jerry' during Micah Parsons' press conference (odds shifted from +2200 to +1200) after his trade from the Cowboys.

Green Bay will travel to Cleveland (September 21) for their next game as Parsons continues to boost the team's defense.

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.