Among the holiday gifts this season, folks may have received the popular genetic testing kits to help them learn more about their family history. While these kits can be interesting and help spark conversations with families, people should be aware that the information revealed is only a small part of the picture. “Some health conditions run in families, and it can be important to know what your risks are,” said Heather Willems, certified genetic

At the Gresham Scholarship Fund Board of Directors meeting in January, it was decided to cancel plans for the annual fundraising banquet, which was scheduled for March 26. This has been the third consecutive banquet to be canceled, according to spokesman Robert Klopke. He said the organization is hoping that the COVID-19 pandemic will soon be brought under control, so that a banquet can be scheduled and completed next year.

Shawano County Library is holding a community winter challenge as people read “Stamped from the Beginning” by Ibram X. Kendi during February. The reading challenge will run Feb. 1-28. Participants can register for the challenge at https://shawanolibrary.beanstack.org/reader365 or by using the Beanstack Tracker app. There are also several family-friendly companion books available to read, including “Stamped” by Jason Reynolds and Ibram X.

The Shawano County Toys For Tots campaign collected 4,329 toys and books in the area for its 2021 campaign. Of those, 3,444 were gathered from the organization’s collection boxes.

Residents living in and around Shawano can learn about their risk for cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, and other chronic, serious conditions with affordable screenings by Life Line Screening. Boarders Inn and Suites, W7393 River Bend Road, Shawano, will host the event on Feb. 26.

The Wisconsin Ag in the Classroom Program is accepting applications for matching grants, up to $500, that will be awarded to groups conducting activities that promote agricultural literacy in K-12 schools. Projects that use funds toward an ongoing, sustainable education effort will receive preference over one-time programs. Applicants must have a matching donor for their project equal to the amount of the Ag in the Classroom grant.