As winter storms impact communities across the upper Midwest, Aspirus Health is urging residents to take precautions when shoveling snow to avoid injury.

Reconstructive plastic surgery plays an important role in helping individuals heal after traumatic injuries.

These procedures restore function and appearance following accidents, falls, or other events that damage skin, soft tissue, or underlying structures. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, more than 1 million reconstructive procedures were performed in 2023.

Many children lead active, rough-and-tumble lives as they play, grow and explore, so parents, caregivers and trusted adults often may become accustomed to handling the occasional bump or bruise.

When a child faces a more serious illness or injury, those same guardians may feel unsure about how best to support their little ones through such a health challenge.

FRIDAY, JAN. 9

SURING: Recovery Talking Circle, 6-8 p.m. South Branch Community Center, W1281 County Road M.

SATURDAY, JAN. 10

SHAWANO: Spin to Win Fish-O-Ree, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., Bamboo Bar, W5884 Cedar Court. Details at Bamboo Bar Facebook page. Breakfast pizza available starting at 5:30 a.m.

University of Sioux Falls

Landen Schmidt, of Eland, was named to the University of Sioux Falls fall 2025 dean’s list. Schmidt is majoring in exercise science.

To qualify, students must be enrolled in at least 12 semester hours and earn a term GPA of 3.5 or greater.

Emma Kristof, of Suring, was also named to the fall 2025 dean’s list. Kristof is majoring in elementary education.

When I put up my new calendar, it said the first month of 2026 is January. Now lest you think I enjoyed one too many toddies this past Christmas holiday, I assure you that is not the case. In fact, my head is so clear that I got to thinking. Jon warned me how dangerous that can be, but did I pay attention? Of course not. Anyway, what I got to thinking about is the irrational way the Gregorian Calendar is arranged.