By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!
​
MARSHFIELD, WI – In the latest episode of County Connections, host David Ballerstein sat down with Wood County Sheriff Shawn Becker to discuss a wide range of local topics — from honoring veterans and recognizing local heroes to ongoing public safety efforts, inmate rehabilitation, and new educational partnerships.

Honoring Veterans and Local Service
As the episode was filmed on Veterans Day, Sheriff Becker shared heartfelt reflections after attending an assembly at Auburndale Elementary School.

“It was phenomenal,” he said, noting that the students and staff did a great job recognizing veterans. He added that every day should be considered Veterans Day, emphasizing ongoing gratitude for those who have served.
Becker also spoke about his own family’s military history, including relatives who served in Korea, Vietnam, and Iraq. “Today’s all about all the people that have protected us and served our country because without them, we wouldn’t be here right now,” he said.

The Sheriff also mentioned a new addition to the Wood County Courthouse Veterans Memorial, which now honors those who have served both in the military and with the Sheriff’s Department. “We added several names,” Becker said, encouraging visitors to stop by and reflect on their service.

Tackling Bitcoin and Cryptocurrency Scams
The conversation turned to the ongoing problem of cryptocurrency fraud, especially targeting seniors. Sheriff Becker explained that investigators have been working with lawmakers to regulate Bitcoin ATMs, which have been used in scams.

“We’re not against Bitcoin,” he said, “but we have to protect people.”

The Sheriff’s Office has testified at hearings seeking bipartisan support for regulations that would limit ATM transactions to help curb fraud. He described how scammers manipulate victims into depositing cash at Bitcoin machines and how complex investigations become once funds are converted to digital currency.

Becker said the department has seized several machines as evidence and is awaiting court decisions on how the funds should be handled.

Inmate Rehabilitation and Education Programs
Sheriff Becker also highlighted the continued success of inmate recovery and education programs. Through partnerships with Three Bridges Recovery and Mid-State Technical College, inmates can earn high school diplomas, GEDs, and even participate in culinary training.

“Our first group earned their Serve Safe certificates,” Becker said. “It’s a great partnership that gives people in custody a chance to better themselves and prepare for success when they return to the community.”

School Resource Officer Program
A new school resource officer program at Auburndale High School is also making a positive impact. Deputy Jesse Nell was selected for the role and has already built strong relationships with students and staff.

“It’s well worth it,” said Becker, adding that the position helps guide students who are considering careers in law enforcement.

He praised local educational pathways, noting that Mid-State Technical College and the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point have a partnership allowing students to earn college credit for attending law enforcement academy training.

Recognizing Local Hero Mike Weber
Sheriff Becker recognized longtime volunteer Mike Weber, who oversees the county’s rescue unit and was recently honored by local legislators for decades of service.

“He’s been volunteering for more than three decades,” Becker said. “When you talk about what a volunteer is — that’s Mike.”

Closing a Cold Case: The Deidre Harms Investigation
Becker provided closure on the long-standing case of Deidre Harms, who went missing from Wisconsin Rapids years ago. He credited District Attorney Jonathan Barnett for officially concluding that Chris Reback would have been charged with her murder if he were still alive.

“It’s rewarding to know we were right,” Becker said. “It doesn’t bring her back, but it brings closure.”
Wood County Featured on “Cops”Sheriff Becker also shared that Wood County was recently featured on the TV show “Cops.” Filming concluded this week, and episodes are expected to air next year.

“It’s an honor that they chose to film here,” Becker said, adding that the show gives viewers a look at the professionalism and challenges faced by corrections officers.

Safety Reminders for Hunting Season
With hunting season underway, Becker reminded residents to stay safe, know their boundaries, and maintain good relationships with neighbors.

“Be safe. Know where you’re hunting,” he said. “If you’re in city limits, check the local ordinances online.”

County Connections airs on Marshfield Now! , featuring conversations with local leaders and updates on community safety, partnerships, and public service.

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!
​
The Boys & Girls Club of Marshfield is preparing for its first-ever Festival Foods Turkey Trot since the club’s opening earlier this year. The Thanksgiving morning event is part of a statewide tradition that raises funds to support local Boys & Girls Clubs and YMCAs.

A New Chapter for Marshfield Youth
Kaitlyn Konrardy, Director of Community Outreach and a Marshfield native, shared that the local club officially began programming in summer 2025, serving 91 children at Grant Elementary in partnership with the School District of Marshfield’s summer program. Now operating out of Lincoln Elementary, the club serves about 88 students—roughly 30% of the school’s population—with after-school programming that includes homework help, meals, and enrichment activities.

Konrardy said, “We’re engaging kids through STEM projects, healthy lifestyle classes, and community leadership programs. We’re really helping them grow into the best versions of themselves.”

The Goal: A Standalone Club Facility
While the partnership with the school district has been vital, Konrardy noted that the current setup limits access to students outside Lincoln Elementary. “Without a standalone center, we’re not able to serve the entire population,” she said. “Eventually, we want to expand to grades one through twelve and even offer programs for teens focused on workforce readiness and life skills.”

Turkey Trot: Fun, Fitness, and Fundraising
The annual Festival Foods Turkey Trot takes place Thanksgiving morning at 8 a.m. at Marshfield High School. Participants can register online at FestivalFoodsTurkeyTrot.com by selecting the Marshfield location. Options include a five-mile timed run, a two-mile fun run or walk, and a “dog jog” for furry friends. Each participant receives a t-shirt, pie, and coupons from Festival Foods.

“All proceeds stay local and benefit the Boys & Girls Club and YMCA of Marshfield,” Konrardy explained. “It’s a fun, family-friendly way to support our youth.”

Beyond the Race: Supporting the Mission Year-Round
The funds raised go toward the club’s annual campaign, helping to cover staffing, programming, and supplies. Membership costs just $100 per child—and $10 for those qualifying for free or reduced lunch—making community donations essential.

Konrardy added that the club always welcomes involvement through volunteering, financial support, or in-kind donations. Items like art supplies, STEM kits, and healthy snack ingredients are high on the wish list, with an Amazon wishlist available at MarshfieldBGC.org.

Building a Stronger Future Together
Local businesses can also support the Boys & Girls Club through sponsorships of programs like “Youth of the Month” or future fundraising events. “We’re building something that’s going to make a lasting impact for Marshfield,” Konrardy said. “It’s an exciting time for our community.”
Residents can stay updated through the club’s Facebook page and by subscribing to their newsletter at MarshfieldBGC.org.

As Konrardy concluded, “It’s about time Marshfield has a Boys & Girls Club—and it’s already making a difference.”
Watch the full interview now on Marshfield Now! Channel 990, streaming on Roku, Apple TV, Fire TV, and online through Marshfield Broadcasting platforms.

Marshfield, WI — A recent episode of Coffee with the Mayor featured special guest David Ballerstein, Community Media Coordinator for the City of Marshfield’s Communications Department. The conversation offered a detailed look at the purpose, challenges, and growing importance of community television in connecting local residents.

Ballerstein oversees Marshfield Broadcasting’s three channels: the Producers Channel, the Marshfield Now Channel, and the Government Channel. He described the work as both a civic responsibility and a community service, noting that the station provides live coverage of city meetings and broadcasts major events such as Dairy Fest and the Main Street Christmas Parade. He also trains volunteers in camera operation, lighting, and production, emphasizing that the channels belong to the public.

“Community television is for everybody,” Ballerstein said, noting that any resident can create their own show by reaching out. He highlighted the value of even small-scale engagement: if a message helps one person, it has made a difference.
The mayor praised the department’s increasing collaboration with local organizations.

One example discussed was the ongoing partnership with Marshfield Clinic to produce the health-focused series Your Health Matters. Ballerstein explained that the goal is to help viewers feel informed enough to take the next step in seeking medical support if needed.

The conversation also highlighted sponsorships as a key support model. Because the department is not funded by tax dollars, community television relies on cable franchise fees and partnerships. However, as more households transition to internet streaming, those funding sources have declined.

Ballerstein expressed concern that community media stations across Wisconsin have been forced to shut down due to limited resources. He stressed that Marshfield’s station continues to grow but will require stronger public involvement and sponsorship to remain sustainable.

One project the mayor praised was the weekly printed community broadcasting guide, distributed to assisted living centers, the Community Center, and local stores. Ballerstein explained that this allows residents without internet access to stay informed, though producing the booklet is time-intensive and costly.

Beyond his professional role, Ballerstein shared a personal milestone: he recently married, with a larger celebration planned next year. He also discussed hobbies such as ham radio and community service through local radio clubs.

As the episode drew to a close, Ballerstein encouraged residents to get involved in storytelling, recording, and documenting the life of the city. “It’s an archive of the culture here,” he noted, explaining that local productions preserve memories and community identity for years to come.

Both the mayor and Ballerstein emphasized that community media thrives when residents see themselves as partners and contributors.

Anyone interested in volunteering, producing a show, or learning more about Marshfield community media is encouraged to reach out to the Communications Department.

By David Ballerstein Marshfield Now!
Marshfield, WI
​
​New Episode on The Producers Channel! from NOWi (Network of Wisconsin Impact)

Shirley’s House of Hope, a Christian-based domestic abuse and drug addiction recovery center, continues its mission of helping women rebuild their lives after trauma. The organization, which has served the Marshfield area for 15 years, was founded to address a significant local need for support services for women escaping abuse and addiction.

The idea began in 2007 when Julie, a women’s ministry leader at the time, learned that approximately 300 women per year in the Marshfield area were seeking services related to domestic violence. In response, she and other local women began collecting personal care bags to support survivors who often fled with few belongings of their own. Interest and community support quickly grew, leading to the formation of Shirley’s House of Hope in 2008.

A Mission Rooted in Restoration
The organization's mission is “equipping women through the love of Christ to rebuild, renew, and restore their lives from domestic abuse and addiction.” Staff members address not only physical needs but also emotional, spiritual, and mental health challenges that often accompany abuse. Many residents arrive without recognizing they have experienced abuse because it has always felt “normal.”

The program includes case management, counseling, daily devotions, Bible study, and a nine-month class program, with some women staying up to a year and accessing transitional housing support for up to two years. Research shows that breaking cycles of abuse and addiction can take up to three years—support the center is committed to providing.

Community Support Makes the Difference
Shirley’s House of Hope operates largely through grassroots support from local individuals, churches, families, and businesses. While the organization has received grants over the years, Julie emphasized that small, consistent donations have been the heart of the center’s sustainability.

“It costs about $130 a day to minister to each woman,” she said, noting recent efforts to strengthen programming and ensure fair wages for staff supporting residents through often difficult healing journeys.

Building Community Through Shared Healing
A key part of the program includes shared community meals. Many women and children entering the shelter have never experienced sitting together at a dinner table. Julie shared a story of a young boy who had only ever eaten in a truck with his family. Over time, daily dinners helped him and his mother rebuild trust and connection. That mother completed the program, later married a supportive partner, and her son went on to graduate high school.

Looking Ahead
Future plans for expansion include establishing a bargain center and increasing emergency service capacity, while continuing to partner with organizations such as the Personal Development Center, Orenda Center, and St. Vincent de Paul.

Upcoming Fundraisers
Two major events support the center annually:

• Iron Chef Competition (held each November)
• Run for Hope (held each April at Wildwood Park)

Both events help raise critical funding to maintain services and staffing.

How to Get Help or Get Involved
Women seeking assistance can review program information at shirleyshouseofhope.org and call 715-486-9000 for intake. Community members may donate funds or needed supplies, or apply to volunteer through the website. 

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!
MARSHFIELD — October is a time for reflection and awareness, and in a recent episode of Your Health Matters, host Laura Kibbel sat down with three Marshfield Clinic physicians to discuss the breast cancer journey — from diagnosis to recovery. Joining her were Dr. Joseph Edmund, hematologist-oncologist; Dr. Anna Seydel, breast surgeon; and Dr. Brad Morrow, plastic surgeon.

“I’m thrilled today to bring to you three esteemed physicians that are going to talk to us about what a breast cancer journey may look like for a patient,” Kibbel said.

Pathways to Care
Dr. Edmund explained that breast cancer begins with abnormal cell growth and can appear as a lump. “Breast cancers are divided into lobular and ductal types,” he said. “Risk factors can be things we can change, like alcohol use and smoking, or things we cannot, like family history or genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2.”

He described treatment as a team decision. “The choice of whether chemotherapy or surgery comes first depends on a multidisciplinary approach,” Edmund said. “We meet with the surgeons, radiation oncologists, and medical oncologists together to decide the best plan.”

Patient Choice in Surgery
Dr. Seydel said she focuses on helping each patient make informed choices between lumpectomy and mastectomy.
“For most patients, they do have an option to either preserve their breast or remove their breast — and it’s their choice, because there’s no difference in survival between the two options,” she said.

She emphasized that the type of surgery doesn’t determine the need for chemotherapy. “The decision for what operation we do is independent of whether or not they’re going to receive chemotherapy,” Seydel said. “That depends on the tumor factors and the patient.”

Patients’ fears often influence their choices. “Many say, ‘I’ve had friends or family who’ve had radiation and I don’t want to have radiation,’” Seydel explained. “But mastectomy cannot get your risk of recurrence to zero. Some prioritize keeping their native breast, others prioritize symmetry or risk reduction. It’s my job to tease that out.”

Reconstruction and Recovery
Dr. Morrow said reconstructive surgery can often begin immediately after a mastectomy.
“I generally like to see the patients as soon as we possibly can,” he said. “The nice part about immediate reconstruction is that Dr. Seydel can spare most, if not all, of the skin — so we only need to reconstruct the volume of the breast.”

Patients can choose between implants or using their own tissue. “Autologous means using your own tissue — we borrow tissue from somewhere, like the abdomen or back,” Morrow said. “The other option is implants. Most women are down to Tylenol and ibuprofen a few days after surgery.”

When asked how natural the results look and feel, Morrow said, “Implants can have different textures and firmness. There’s one called a ‘soft touch’ that feels very natural and is popular among patients.”

Ongoing Support
​Follow-up care continues long after surgery. “It’s dependent on the stage and type of the cancer,” Dr. Edmund explained. “For early-stage hormone-receptor-positive breast cancer, we may use hormonal therapy. I see patients every three to six months to monitor how they’re doing

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!
MARSHFIELD – In a recent Post Council Update on Marshfield Broadcasting’s Now Channel, Council President Brian Varsho joined host Tom Loucks to recap two key city meetings held October 27 and 28.

City Receives $355,000 Reimbursement
The City of Marshfield announced it will receive $355,000 in tax overpayment reimbursements from the state, related to past settlements involving Marshfield Clinic properties. Of that total, $8,000 will be directed to match Wood County’s grant for the Visit Marshfield façade improvement program, while the remaining $347,000 will be placed in the city’s contingency fund.

Varsho emphasized the importance of holding the funds in reserve for potential 2026 expenses, including hiring an economic development director and addressing vacant staff positions at City Hall. “Leaving it there and not touching it now is probably the best possible outcome for us,” he said.

Budget Hearing Scheduled for November 25The 2026 city budget has already been finalized and will go to public hearing on Tuesday, November 25, at the regular Common Council meeting. Varsho noted that during his five years of budget hearings, residents have rarely attended or provided comment. He encouraged the public to use the hearing as an opportunity to ask questions or raise concerns.

Health Insurance Costs Remain Stable
At the October 28 meeting, the council approved new annual contracts with Security Health Plan, Delta Dental, and vision coverage providers. Health insurance costs will increase by just 1.6%, a figure Varsho described as “very minimal.” Dental and vision plans will remain unchanged.


“This is good news for both employees and the city budget,” Varsho said, noting that a larger increase would have significantly impacted city expenses.

Ordinance Updates and Development Proposals
The council held first readings of ordinances clarifying lot size requirements to allow duplexes and townhomes, particularly in new subdivisions like Denyon. Final readings are expected at the November 11 meeting.


Discussion also focused on the Weinbrenner building redevelopment. With the shoemaker set to relocate to a new facility in early 2026, the city has reissued its request for proposals. A new 10-member selection panel will include the mayor, three aldermen, City Administrator Steve Barg, two CDA members, and two public representatives with banking and real estate backgrounds.

Varsho noted that earlier proposals were too similar and failed to gain traction. He expressed optimism that fresh ideas—including one from a local entrepreneur—will move the project forward.

Community Notes: Halloween and Future Meetings
The council also highlighted upcoming community events, including Main Street Marshfield’s trick-or-treating on October 30 and the traditional Fifth Street neighborhood celebration on October 31.
​

Looking ahead, the council plans to adjust its December schedule to avoid conflicts with Christmas and New Year’s holidays, with the second December meeting likely moved up to December 16.

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!

MARSHFIELD – Good Shepherd Lutheran Church in Marshfield is inviting the community to gather for its first-ever chili feed this Sunday, November 2. The event comes during the church’s stewardship season and is aimed at fostering fellowship while offering a hearty meal.

“This is the first time that we are having something like this,” organizers explained during a Marshfield Now! interview. “We thought, perfect time of year to feed people some chili.”

Unlike some church chili events that include cook-offs or contests, Good Shepherd’s gathering is all about community rather than competition. Attendees can enjoy chili accompanied by cheese, crackers, and bars to make it a full meal. The event is open to everyone—members and non-members alike—with no obligation beyond enjoying good food and company.

The chili feed will be offered for a free-will donation, with proceeds supporting the church. “Anything that folks want to put in the basket is more than welcome,” church representatives noted. While volunteers are largely in place, additional help from church members would still be welcomed.

Good Shepherd Lutheran Church currently offers services on Sunday mornings and Wednesday evenings during the school year at 7 p.m. Wednesday services are especially popular during Lent, when they include a soup supper before worship.

The church is also seeking new musical talent. After 32 years of service, one of its pianists recently retired, leaving the church in need of additional musicians. “To ask one musician to do every single service is a lot,” representatives said. “If there are any pianists out there who would be interested in helping us out, we would gladly take them.” Interested musicians can contact the church directly or call the number listed on its website.
​
As the weather cools, the congregation hopes this new event will bring warmth and connection to the Marshfield community. “It’s all about making community connections,” organizers emphasized.

By David Ballerstein – Marshfield Now!

MARSHFIELD – Marshfield Broadcasting has premiered a brand-new program on Marshfield Now! Channel 990, Innovative Marshfield – The Coven Connection, a series dedicated to showcasing the people and ideas driving creativity and entrepreneurship in the community.


The debut episode features host Marsha Bushman, founder of The Vault and The Coven coworking space, in conversation with Jose Ortiz, who works closely with members at The Coven. Together, they explore how the downtown coworking hub has become a gathering place for entrepreneurs, creatives, nonprofits, and professionals seeking collaboration and support.

Bushman shared her vision of The Coven as a “miniature incubator” where small businesses and independent workers can launch and grow. Ortiz emphasized the space’s community atmosphere, pointing to partnerships with Uptown Coffee and The 715 store as examples of how The Coven connects people and ideas.

The program also highlighted upcoming opportunities at The Coven, including access to “pocket offices,” conference rooms, podcasting facilities, and event space. From holiday gatherings and wellness retreats to business workshops, the coworking hub offers an array of resources for Marshfield residents.

Looking ahead, Innovative Marshfield – The Coven Connection will spotlight local healthcare practitioners, female founders, and other entrepreneurs bringing unique services to the region. The series aims to inspire by featuring individuals who often work quietly behind the scenes but are making a lasting impact on the community
​
Residents can watch the program on Channel 990 or stream it on Roku, Fire TV, and Apple TV using the Marshfield Broadcasting app.

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!
​
MARSHFIELD – The latest Post-Council Update with Council President Brian Varsho reviewed key developments from recent city meetings, including budget discussions, redevelopment plans for the Weinbrenner building, and ongoing funding challenges for the city’s communications department.

Communications Department Funding Concerns
At the September 23 meeting, Council Member Derek Morman requested a report on the city’s communications department, which is facing financial pressures due to declining cable franchise fees. With more residents switching to streaming services or using over-the-air antennas, revenues that traditionally supported communications operations have dropped.

Varsho emphasized the department’s critical role in keeping citizens informed and supporting city departments, noting the need for collaborative solutions to maintain these services.

Utility Commission Appointment
Also on September 23, Paul Capilha was approved for another seven-year term on the Marshfield Utility Commission, one of the city’s longest appointment terms.

Weinbrenner Building Redevelopment
The council also discussed progress on the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) for redevelopment of the historic Weinbrenner building. The RFQ was distributed to about 100 Midwest companies and remains open until early November. A selection committee—consisting of the mayor, city administrator Steve Barg, three council members, two CDA members, and a community representative—will evaluate proposals. The building is expected to be vacated by early 2026, and city leaders are eager to see plans move forward to avoid prolonged vacancy.

Budget Season Underway
City Administrator Steve Barg presented his recommended budget on October 6, covering every city department. While inflation-related increases in wages, benefits, and insurance were noted, questions were minimal compared to prior years. One major topic was the possible funding of a community development director, a position not currently in the budget. Council Member Rebecca Spiros suggested reallocating resources, such as responsibilities in Parks and Recreation, to free funds for the role. Varsho supported the idea in principle but expressed concern about timing and feasibility for this budget cycle.

Council members also discussed alternative funding mechanisms, including interest from the wastewater utility and questions about fiber optic utility charges managed by Marshfield Utilities. Other future considerations include exploring transportation and stormwater utilities. However, Varsho noted there was little appetite for adding a wheel tax.

Council Meeting Highlights
At the October 14 regular council meeting, most agenda items moved quickly. The council approved second readings on lot sizes and setbacks, handled older accounting matters related to the airport, and entered closed session to review several potential initiatives. While no actions were finalized, officials indicated some items may return for public discussion in the coming weeks.

Website and Communications Upgrades
During staff updates, city officials outlined progress toward launching a new city website within eight months. The updated site will feature dedicated pages for police and fire, with greater opportunities for public input before launch. In addition, Marshfield Broadcasting continues to provide printed newsletters for residents without internet access and will cover upcoming community events, including Halloween trick-or-treating (5:30–7:30 p.m. on October 31) and the November holiday parade in partnership with Main Street Marshfield.

Looking Ahead
The next council and budget discussions are scheduled for October 20 at 6 p.m. Another Post-Council Update will be produced later this month to provide further details.

For questions, residents can contact Marshfield Broadcasting at 715-207-0379.

By David Ballerstein - Marshfield Now!

MARSHFIELD – This week’s edition of Hub City Times Presents highlighted the impactful work of Shirley’s House of Hope, a local organization dedicated to helping women and children recover from domestic violence and substance abuse. Host Peggy Sue welcomed three representatives from the nonprofit: Executive Director Julie Cravillion, Development Director Tammy Redetzke, and Development Associate Angie Loucks.

The guests began by introducing themselves and sharing their roles within the organization. Cravillion explained Shirley’s House of Hope’s mission, emphasizing the shelter’s role in not only providing a safe haven but also guiding women through long-term recovery programs. “We don’t just focus on emergency needs,” she said. “We help women rebuild their lives with counseling, education, and faith-based support.”

Tammy spoke about the organization’s development efforts, noting how community support and donations make their work possible. “We’re blessed to have so many local businesses and individuals who care about these families,” she said. Angie Lokes added that connecting with donors and volunteers has been one of the most rewarding parts of her work, as it builds a strong sense of community around the mission.

Throughout the program, the women discussed ongoing needs, including fundraising events, volunteer opportunities, and the importance of awareness. They encouraged viewers to learn more, get involved, and spread the word about the services available through Shirley’s House of Hope.

Peggy Sue closed the segment by thanking her guests and commending their dedication. “The work you do transforms lives,” she said, underscoring the program’s role in shining a spotlight on organizations making a difference in central Wisconsin.