As families prepare for another school year, school supply lists, open houses and new schedules often top the to-do list. But there is one back-to-school essential that can have just as much impact on a child’s success in the classroom — sleep.

“Sleep plays a big role in kids’ brain development, behavior, learning, immunity and growth,” said Dr. Kevin Morgan, pediatrician at Aspirus Health.

Pregnancy brings many changes to the body, including an increased need for fluids.

While drinking water may seem like a small daily habit, staying hydrated plays an important role in supporting digestion, circulation, amniotic fluid, temperature regulation and overall comfort throughout pregnancy.

While most U.S. infants receive some breast milk, only 27.9% are exclusively breastfed through six months, well below the Healthy People 2030 target of 42.4%, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Health experts say access to breastfeeding education and lactation support before and after childbirth can help families overcome common challenges and continue breastfeeding for as long as they choose.

Between school, sports, work and after-school activities, finding time for everyone in the family to eat together on a regular basis can feel nearly impossible.

However, research shows families don’t need to share dinner every night to experience meaningful benefits. Just three meals together each week can make a big difference.

A day of golf, fellowship and community support brought local businesses and residents together Aug. 5, as the Peshtigo and Oconto Area Chamber of Commerce hosted its annual golf outing at Little River Country Club.

The team from Jack’s Fry Shack captured first place with a score of 33. Team members received gift certificates to the country club.

Daniel David Flauger, 84, of Appleton, passed away at home Aug. 7, 2026, surrounded by his loving family, after an extended battle with colon cancer. He fought the good fight, but his body was tired.

Interactions with law enforcement don’t usually entail sampling baked goods from the community or getting into a tug-of-war, but that was the sort of thing going on Aug. 11 at Franklin Park for Shawano’s National Night Out.

Expert witnesses are unavailable for the trial against Amanda Bowman in September, so it was moved back until next February.