Good morning, Appleton.

Organizers of Paperfest in Kimberly announced they donated over $130,000 to more than 50 local nonprofits based on volunteer hours, marking the event's largest donation in its 37-year history.

The four-day festival with live music, carnival rides and family fun will return July 16-19.

Patti Habeck is stepping down as president and CEO of Feeding America Eastern Wisconsin to become president and CEO of New North Inc. on Dec.

1—she led the hunger-relief organization for nine years while expanding its work.

A local soybean farmer will harvest his fields this week amid uncertainty as trade talks between the U.S. and China have left soybean orders at zero + the lack of orders challenges a billion-dollar industry in the state.

Sandy Slope Elementary School opened Wednesday evening as the first new school in Appleton Area School District in over 30 years.

It was built on the land of Van Handel Farm with referendum funds for about 600 students and includes a preserved silo—a nod to the area’s past.

Downtown Appleton residents and District 4 Alderperson Martyn Smith say high noise from cars and new homes is hurting daily life, and the group Stop the Noise has urged the city to enforce stricter rules—work on rebuilding College Avenue between the Fox River Mall and downtown began on Sept. 9. A local motorcycle group also said riders should keep their noise down to help preserve the quiet in the area.

Wisconsin DHS today recommends everyone six months and older get the COVID-19 vaccine — a choice that goes against federal advice limiting shots to older or high-risk groups.

Governor Tony Evers signed an order to boost vaccine access, and officials say more vaccinations can help keep people safe as flu season nears.

Thrivent Financial for Lutherans will build a new four-story, 155,000-square-foot operations center at Wilden Portfolio Park on Appleton’s north side — the master plan also includes a park with a bandshell, green trails and more than 2,000 housing units along with commercial and recreational areas.

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.

Nature Walk and Lunch Gathering

3-5 p.m. — Gordon Bubolz Nature Preserve — No cost — Stretch your legs while enjoying a scenic walk and the possibility of a lunch together.

Better Together

5-8 p.m. — The 513 — Refunds up to 7 days before event — Enjoy culinary delights and live music while supporting the St. Joseph Food Program at this community networking event.