Brad Hanson

Wausau

News Director at WAOW-TV (Wausau, WI)

News Director for @WAOW in Wausau, Wis. @UMN_HSJMC alum. Minnesota born. Tweets and retweets are my own opinions/thoughts.

Articles

Wisconsin heatwave raises risk of pavement buckling; WisDOT advises caution

1 week ago | waow.com | Brad Hanson

As extreme heat is expected to hit Wisconsin in the coming days, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) warns drivers about the risk of pavement buckling. Motorists are urged to stay alert and exercise extra caution. Pavement buckling can occur when temperatures shift rapidly from cool to hot, causing the pavement to expand and push against itself. This pressure can lead to unexpected bumps or dips in the road.
Bradyn's Law passed by Assembly in Madison

1 week ago | waow.com | Brad Hanson

MADISON, Wis. (WAOW) -- Bradyn's Law, the law named after an area teen who died by suicide earlier this year, was passed by the Assembly in Madison Wednesday. The bill will now head to the state Senate for approval. The law, which makes "sextortion" a felony under the law, will allow law enforcement to go after those responsible for this new crime that's been becoming more prolific across the nation.
Concerts on the Square being moved inside due to weather threat

1 week ago | waow.com | Brad Hanson

WAUSAU, Wis. (WAOW) -- Wednesday night's Concerts on the Square will be moving inside due to the threat of potential lightning and thunderstorms. The concert will be held at the Rothschild Pavilion with local favorite Brad Emanuel. The show starts at 6 p.m., with doors opening at 5 p.m.Food and drink are welcome, and local vendors will be on site. Chairs are encouraged and standing room will be available. No smoking, large tables or pets will be allowed.
Free suicide prevention workshop in Medford aims to save lives

1 week ago | waow.com | Brad Hanson

MEDFORD, Wis. (WAOW) -- Prevent Suicide Taylor County is hosting a free suicide prevention workshop Thursday night from 6 to 7:30 p.m. in the newly remodeled Taylor County Multi-Purpose Room. Attendees will learn about reducing access to lethal means as a way to prevent suicide. "We know that access to lethal means – including firearms, medications, and sharp objects – is a risk factor for suicide," said Suzanne Stanfley, Director with Taylor County Human Services.
Mid-State Technical College launches new addiction counselor program

1 week ago | waow.com | Brad Hanson

WISCONSIN RAPIDS, Wis. (WAOW) -- Mid-State Technical College is now accepting applications for its new Substance Use Disorder Counselor associate degree. The 67-credit program is designed to equip students with the skills needed to address addiction issues. The two-year associate in applied science program prepares graduates to become substance abuse counselors. Students will learn to understand the underlying causes of addiction and help patients with coping strategies.
Wausau's Great Pinery Waterway earns National Recreation Trail status

1 week ago | waow.com | Brad Hanson

WAUSAU, Wis. (WAOW) -- A segment of the Great Pinery Heritage Waterway in Marathon County has been designated a National Recreation Trail by the U.S. Department of the Interior as of June 17, 2025. This makes Marathon County one of the few destinations with two national trails, alongside the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
A&W in Weston set to open Monday

1 week ago | waow.com | Brad Hanson

WESTON, Wis. (WAOW) -- The wait for root beer floats and burgers in Weston is nearly over. A&W announced on Facebook early Tuesday that they'll be opening for business on Monday, June 23rd. The restaurant took over the space formerly occupied by Fuzzy's Tacos.
Wausau's Great Pinery Waterway earns National Recreation Trail status

1 week ago | wkow.com | Brad Hanson

WAUSAU, Wis. (WAOW) -- A segment of the Great Pinery Heritage Waterway in Marathon County has been designated a National Recreation Trail by the U.S. Department of the Interior as of June 17, 2025. This makes Marathon County one of the few destinations with two national trails, alongside the Ice Age National Scenic Trail.
SentryWorld ready to host another championship golf event

1 week ago | waow.com | Brad Hanson

STEVENS POINT, Wis. (WAOW) - 72 of the best junior girls golfers have descended on Central Wisconsin this week. The Rolex Girls Junior Championship kicks off Tuesday morning at SentryWorld in Stevens Point. The staff there have been hard at work, prepping the course for yet another big time tournament. "We want to be able to give the players for this championship a world class experience in terms of the golf course conditions they're gonna play, the level of challenge they'll have.
Urgent call for blood donors in Wausau: Aspirus highlights critical need

2 weeks ago | waow.com | Brad Hanson

WAUSAU, Wis. (WAOW) -- On World Blood Donor Day, Aspirus and regional blood centers are urging more people to become regular blood donors. According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, someone in the United States needs blood every two seconds. Melissa Marquardt, transfusion services technical specialist at Aspirus, highlighted the impact of donations. "Every donation makes a direct impact on the care we provide to patients," Marquardt said.