This Week in Appleton

This week in Appleton, the mood is a mix of civic engagement, community spirit, and a touch of local pride, with a few bumps along the road. A significant protest concerning "No Kings" drew thousands to downtown Appleton, highlighting strong community voices and causing some traffic disruptions. On a more positive note, the community celebrated local achievements, from the Appleton Sisters' reflections with All Saints to the Delaware County Pork Producers' Pie Contest win. Sports fans have plenty to cheer about, with Mason Appleton making a comeback attempt on the ice, a local racing contender, Quatrocento, poised for success, and the Appleton North girls' soccer team preparing for a match. The Appleton netball team received a civic send-off as they head to national finals, and young athletes received a generous donation of cleats from a Packers QB. There's also good news regarding infrastructure and local amenities. The $7.4 million West Wisconsin Avenue improvement project is nearing completion, and new businesses are opening, including a Lucero's Mexican Restaurant. Shoppers can also look forward to new digital shelf labels at the local Walmart. On the community support front, a GoFundMe has been launched for TSA workers at Appleton International Airport, who have also been receiving hot lunches and donations. However, not all news is celebratory. The Jerk Joint restaurant has closed permanently, and Pollen in downtown Appleton is also set to close. Additionally, essential sewer work has led to a temporary closure on Highway JJ. On the law enforcement side, a K-9 unit successfully sniffed out drugs during a traffic stop, and police have been issuing noise violations in the downtown corridor. Despite these challenges, there's a sense of optimism with news of improved attendance at Appleton high schools following a truancy law, and a local author earning acclaim for a debut craft book. There's also excitement brewing for Easter activities and St. Patrick's Day events across the area.