Local-Regional News Sept 18

 

The Durand-Arkansaw School District is seeing a slight drop in enrollment. Durand-Arkansaw School Superintendent Ryan Nelson says the preliminary drop in enrollment was not unexpected.  Today is the third Friday of the School year, and an official enrollment count will be taken.

Durand-Arkansaw High School has a new girls golf team. Girls Golf Coach Justin Redetzke says students approached him last year to try and start the team. Because the team started late, it will not be eligible to participate in the playoffs this year. The team will be hosting a golf meet at Rolling Greens on September 28^th.

The Pepin County Department of Health and Human Services will be holding a town hall meeting on Mental Health on October 27^th. The meeting will have mental health professionals and feature an open community conversation, a question-and-answer session, and an opportunity to learn about local resources. The public is invited to attend. The meeting will be held at the Durand-Arksansaw School District offices.

The City of Chippewa Falls has hired a new city administrator. The City Council voted to hire Rebecca Glewen as the new administrator. Glewen is a former mayor of Beaver Dam and was the Trempealeau County administrator in the spring of 2024. Glewen is the first city administrator in 20 years for Chippewa Falls.

The City of Winona is reporting a scam. The city says scammers are impersonating the city’s Planning Commission and sending fake invoices demanding payment to local contractors, businesses and property owners. The city says the scammers are pulling details from news reports and public records to make the invoices appear legitimate. The city says it does not send out emails demanding wire transfer payments. Anyone who receives one of these emails is to contact the City of Winona Directly.

Prison is being ordered for a Sparta man convicted in the 2024 killing of Ticarra Manning. Andrew Nauman pleaded no contest earlier this year to charges of first-degree intentional homicide and felony murder battery. He was sentenced yesterday to 36 years in prison.

The Clark County Sheriff's Office has canceled its contract to use Flock license plate reader cameras. Sheriff Kerry Kirn issued a statement yesterday, saying that as sheriff, he has a responsibility both to provide department deputies with effective tools to keep the communities they serve safe and to listen to the people. He says he has heard the concerns expressed by Clark County residents regarding the use of the plate reader technology, including concerns about privacy, and took those concerns seriously.

A bill approved by the US House would make A M radios standard in all vehicles. Supporters say A-M radio provides an essential, free service and an important lifeline for broadcasting emergency information when cell phones and the internet aren't working. If the bill becomes law, A-M radio would be classified as standard equipment in a vehicle and automakers would not be allowed to charge extra for it. According to the most recent data from Nielsen Media Research, over 90 percent of U-S adults listen to the radio every month and 74 percent of people who commute listen to the radio while they're driving. The A-M Radio for Every Vehicle Act passed the U-S House Tuesday night by a voice vote. The bill has been eligible for debate in the Senate since last year. Wisconsin Senator Tammy Baldwin is among its co-sponsors.

A Bangor choir teacher is facing allegations of child sex crimes. Paul Sadergaski, who taught at Bangor Middle School/High School, was arrested after allegedly having inappropriate communication with a student. During the investigation, officials found inappropriate content unrelated to his position in the district or the case. Officials are recommending he be charged with grooming of a child for sexual activity, as well as possession of child pornography. Sadergaski is currently on administrative leave from the district.

ACT and SAT scores could soon be optional for UW System college admissions. Testing requirements were suspended during the COVID-19 pandemic and have remained optional ever since. Research conducted by UW-Madison found test scores were not strongly tied to student retention or graduation rates, while factors like high school coursework, grades, and extracurricular activities were better predictors of success. The proposal goes before the Board of Regents Thursday. If approved, campuses could still use test scores for scholarships, course placement, and other academic opportunities.

Three more southeastern Wisconsin communities are shutting down their Flock Safety automated license plate reader programs. The cities of Waukesha, Oconomowoc, and Racine all voted to part ways with the vendor following council decisions. Waukesha Police Chief Dan Thompson emphasized that while the technology helps solve crimes, maintaining public trust and transparency is just as essential. The moves come as several local departments re-examine privacy protections and vendor practices regarding automated camera systems across the state.

Alliant Energy has set its price for data centers. The utility earlier this month sent a "large load" rate for approval with the Public Service Commission after the Commission ruled the company needed to find a standard rate for hyperscale data centers. This comes in response to Alliant's original filings to provide power to a Meta data center in Beaver Dam. Alliant would charge its large customers the full price for any new power generation that needed to be built to handle their facilities, and would prevent rate increases for the rest of Alliant's customer base. The P S C will have to approve the request.

The two biggest races in Minnesota appear to be getting closer. A new KSTP/SurveyUSA poll shows the gap between Amy Klobuchar and Lisa Demuth in the race for governor is tightening. Last month, Klobuchar led Demuth by 16 points and now she has a seven-point lead with several weeks to go before the election. Meanwhile, in the U. S. Senate race to replace retiring incumbent Tina Smith is also close. Peggy Flanagan started the race with a five-point lead over Republican nominee Michele Tafoya. They are both now are knotted up at 42 percent. Twelve percent of the registered voter in the poll are undecided.

Minneapolis-St. Paul Airport is ranked the best in North America for the third straight year. J.D. Power released its Airport Satisfaction Survey today. MSP edged Detroit and Phoenix for the top spot. The study includes factors such as level of trust with airport, terminal facilities, airport staff, food, beverage and retail and departure and arrival experience.

Local-Regional News Sept 17

 

With the upcoming stormy weather on Friday, many schools have move football games to tonight. Durand-Arkansaw School Superintendent Ryan Nelson says the Durand-Arkansaw vs Regis game will have a new time on Friday.  The game would begin at 5pm weather permitting. The National Weather Service is forecasting heavy rain and thunderstorms beginning Friday afternoon and continuing into Friday night with 2-3 inches of rain possible.

A previously-deported Mexican citizen is being sentenced to five months in prison for illegally reentering the country after having been arrested earlier this year in Trempealeau County. That sentence was announced this week in federal court for Jaime Carvajal-Juarez. Carvajal-Juarez continues to face charges in Trempealeau County, including drug offenses and operating while intoxicated.

A Western Wisconsin Teacher is being recognized. Shannon Beighley, a teacher at Whitehall Middle school has been named the 2026 Wisconsin Rural Schools Alliance Rural Teacher of the year. Beighley has taught at Whitehall Middle School for 21yrs and will be recognized at the WiRSA Conference on October 29 in Stevens Point.

Officials are sharing the name of an Eau Claire woman who died after a Tuesday morning crash on Highway 53. The accident happened just south of Clairemont Avenue. Police say 65-year-old Jody Peterson veered off the side of the roadway and into the concrete median -- suffering fatal injuries. The crash remains under investigation.

An Onalaska man charged in connection with recent fires in La Crosse County has been ruled incompetent for trial. David Sheldon was taken into custody last month on charges that he had intentionally started a number of fires. He has been ordered committed to the Department of Health Services, with a reevaluation expected in 90 days.

The price of diesel fuel in Wisconsin is as high as it’s ever been. The Triple-A Fuel Prices page shows the average price for diesel just shy of $6.13 a gallon as of Wednesday, up two cents from Tuesday and an increase of $2.69 from a year ago. It’s the same story nationally, with diesel at a record high $6.31 a gallon according to Triple-A. The price of a gallon of regular unleaded gasoline – just over $4.10 – is 26 cents below the national average, with higher prices in Northern and Central Wisconsin.

Keep an eye out for reptiles and amphibians on the road this fall. As temperatures cool, frogs, salamanders, turtles, snakes and lizards are moving to overwintering areas, often crossing roadways along the way. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, many are killed by vehicles each year. The public can report sightings, including roadkill locations, to help identify trouble spots and guide future conservation efforts. More than half of Wisconsin's reptile species are considered endangered, threatened, or of special concern.

A new case of measles in Central Wisconsin means more work for the Department of Health Services. Dr. Ryan Westergaard says health officials have been able to focus on containing a series of community outbreaks in Southwestern Wisconsin. Westergaard says the new case in Marathon County will require D H S to mobilize in order to contain possible exposures in a new region of Wisconsin. The case in Marathon County is from out of state travel. Two new cases are also reported from Vernon County, in addition to previously confirmed cases in Iowa, Grant and Lafayette Counties, bringing the total number this year to 164, of which 163 were unvaccinated individuals.

Bird flu is detected in a commercial bird flock in Barron County. The Wisconsin Department of Ag, Trade and Consumer Protection has been monitoring for the highly pathogenic avian influenza. Officials said on Tuesday the affected flock, located between Rice Lake and Barron, was depopulated and premises quarantined to prevent the spread of the disease to other flocks and stop the birds from entering the food system. Other flocks in the area are being monitored. The disease is often spread by wild birds and their droppings. For more information, visit the DATCP website at D A T C P dot W I dot gov and click on the link for highly pathogenic avian influenza in poultry.

A case of Measles in Marathon County. The County Health Department says an unidentified person came down with the disease after traveling outside Wisconsin. The person is self-isolating, and as of Tuesday there is no indication that anyone else may have been exposed. The case is unrelated to an outbreak in Southwestern Wisconsin, where more than 150 people have come down with the disease in Iowa, Grant, and Lafayette Counties. Officials say they will continue to monitor the case, anyone concerned about the disease should check their vaccination status and practice good hygiene while out in public.

Pulling the plug on a candidate forum in the race for Wisconsin governor. It’s the second time a scheduled appearance between Republican Congressman Tom Tiffany and Democratic Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley is cancelled. The Milwaukee County Intergovernmental Cooperation Council, TMJ4 and UW–Milwaukee announced an October 8 town hall forum will not take place. A joint statement says “scheduling did not work out.” Earlier this month, the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association debate to be held on October 9th was cancelled after Tiffany declined to participate. The sole opportunity for voters to hear from both candidates will take place Wednesday, October 21, on the Marquette University campus at 7 p.m. WISN-12 reporters Matt Smith and Gerron Jordan will moderate the one-hour debate, which will be available statewide on partner stations in Green Bay, Madison, Wausau, Eau Claire and La Crosse.

Scammers are using exam anxiety to try and trap college students into sending them money. Wisconsin Better Business Bureau spokesperson Lisa Schiller says the scam starts with an email or text message offering help passing exams or tests. Another person will then start contacting you, saying they know "you're trying to cheat" and demand money or else theyll get you expelled. If you get one of these messages offering help, make sure the sender is who they say they are by checking online. If you are looking for legitimate help with prepping for exams, contact your school to find tutors or look for reputable agencies online at B B B dot Org.

Minnesota cannabis sales are at 250 million dollars in the first year of business. The figure represents 150 million dollars in adult-use products and 100 million dollars in medical cannabis products. In the last year, the state has licensed more than 300 businesses. The Minnesota Office of Cannabis Management says sales have generated 45-point-six million dollars in tax revenue for the state.

September is College Savings Month in Wisconsin. A proclamation from Governor Tony Evers serves as a reminder for families to start or continue saving for future education costs through the state's 529 College Savings Program. Funds can be used for college, technical school, apprenticeships, and some K-through-12 expenses. Contributions grow tax-free when used for qualified education costs, and Wisconsin taxpayers may qualify for state tax deductions. More information is available through the Edvest 529 and Tomorrow's Scholar savings plans.

Local-Regional News Sept 16

 

The Durand-Arkansaw School Board is meeting tonight. Items on the agenda include a report on preliminary student enrollment, consideration of the 2026-2027 district continuous performance report and reports from district and building administrators. Tonights meeting begins at 6pm in the board room at Durand-Arkansaw High School.

The Pepin County Board is meeting tonight. Items on the agenda include discussion of the 2027 Budget timeline and goals, approval of changes to the Rural Functional Classification System in Pepin County, and county board committee reports. Tonights meeting begins at 7pm in the board room at the Pepin County Government Center in Durand.

The Dunn County Board is meeting tonight. Items on the agenda include approval of the hazard mitigation plan, addressing the 2027-2028 funding gap and establishing a plan to maintain compliance with county fund balance policy. Tonights meeting begins at 7pm at the Dunn County Government Center in Menomonie.

A Menomonie woman is facing arson charges after four fires at properties she lived at. Authorities are accusing Marquetta Rodey with setting fires to her home in September 2023, then again in July of 2024 along with an apartment building she was living at in October 2025. Authorities say that Rodey collected over $500,000 in insurance money. She is charged with four counts of arson with the intent to defraud. She will be in court on October 20.

Authorities are investigating a fatal crash that happened Tuesday morning on Highway 53. The accident happened around 11 a.m., just south of Clairemont Avenue. Police say a 65-year-old Eau Claire woman veered off the side of the roadway and into the concrete median -- suffering fatal injuries. Her name has not yet been released.

Wabasha County Highway 9 from Hwy 33 south to 670^th street is closed for the rest of the month as crews replace a bridge. Crews will replace the bridge with large culverts. That project is expected to be completed by mid October.

Authorities are releasing the identity of a man who was killed in a crash in Red Wing. The collision happened Monday on Highway 61 near Mile Post 89. Minnesota State Patrol officials say 71-year-old Michael Murphy's vehicle crossed the median, struck a guardrail and rolled several times. Authorities say the roads were wet at the time of the crash.

Governor Tony Evers visited multiple University of Wisconsin campuses on Tuesday as part of his annual back-to-school tour. Evers bragged on higher education in the state during a stop at UW-La Crosse, saying that 'whether it's a technical college system, or a UW System, higher education in Wisconsin is clearly better than in almost any other state in the nation.' The governor yesterday also visited the UW-Oshkosh and UW-Stout campuses.

Charges are being filed against a former nurse at the Tomah Veterans Affairs Memorial Center. Fifty-three-year-old Beth Holtz is accused of intentionally depriving a dying hospice patient of oxygen. The incident happened in August of last year, with Holtz reportedly telling a fellow staffer that she hoped the patient would die before the end of her shift because reporting his passing would be easier than writing up a fall that he had experienced earlier. Holtz was taken into custody yesterday on a charge of intentionally abusing a patient causing great bodily harm.

Wisconsin’s regular waterfowl hunting seasons begin this month. The goose season opens Wednesday in the Northern and Southern Zones, while duck season opens later this month in the North. Hunters are reminded to have required licenses, stamps, and federal HIP registration before heading afield. The Department of Natural Resources also recommends precautions when handling harvested birds because avian influenza remains present in wild waterfowl. Season dates and regulations are available through the DNR's website.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court will hear arguments this week on the state's congressional maps. Two lawsuits claim the state's congressional districts are illegally gerrymandered. Liberal legal groups argue the maps are unfairly drawn and have helped Republicans maintain a 6-2 advantage in Wisconsin's U.S. House delegation. One lawsuit claims the maps amount to partisan gerrymandering, while another argues they're designed to protect incumbents and reduce electoral competition. Republican lawmakers and congressional representatives oppose the challenges and say lower court panels were right to dismiss them. For now, the Supreme Court is only deciding whether those dismissals should stand.

Construction is set to begin this month on a 700-million-dollar soybean processing plant in Evansville. CHS Incorporated says the facility on 300 acres of farmland will be capable of processing 80 million bushels of soybeans a year into livestock feed and oil for products like biodiesel. Project leaders had briefly paused development in 2024 to wait for clearer federal policies, but recent EPA announcements convinced the company to press forward. The plant marks the most expensive single development project in Evansville's history and is expected to open in the fall of 2028.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice is pushing for tougher anti-robocall rules. Attorney General Josh Kaul says current safeguards aren't doing enough to keep scammers off the nation's phone network. A multi-state coalition wants phone companies to do a better job vetting providers that route calls, increase monitoring, and strengthen caller ID authentication requirements. The DOJ says Americans received nearly 30 billion scam robocalls and texts last year and lost almost two billion dollars to fraud.

More than 163-thousand students are enrolled at UW System schools this fall. The Universities of Wisconsin have been providing enrollment estimates based on Day One counts since fall 2020, and after three years of consecutive growth, overall enrollment levels remain steady. Enrollment decreased approximately 1% across the 13 campuses including significant decreases in international students. Estimates show fall 2026 enrollment at 163,260, a decline of 1,732 overall, with 1,100 of those being international students. Enrollments at the three largest UWs – Madison, Milwaukee and Green Bay, account for more than half of the UW System total.

New BCA data shows reported crime fell sharply across Minnesota in 2025. Murders dropped 23-percent, from 172 in 2024 to 132 last year. Violent crime fell 14-percent in the Twin Cities metro and nine-percent across the rest of the state. Robberies, carjackings and vehicle thefts also saw double-digit declines. The BCA briefly pulled the report after initially omitting the murders of Melissa and Mark Hortman.

The Badger State is a happy state, just not as much as you may think. A recent study by finance website WalletHub ranked the happiest states in America and whether it has an impact on people's daily lives. It used factors such as depression and unemployment rates, income growth, and more. Wisconsin fell into the above average category and ranked 27th overall. The state's highest rating came in the work environment category at number 18. In case you were wondering, Hawaii was ranked as the happiest state in the country.

Local-Regional News Sept 15

 

The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department is reporting the release of a sex offender back to Pierce County. 61Yr old Todd London is being released today by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections after serving his sentence for 1^st Degree Sexual Assault of a child. London is listed as being homeless and will be required to wear a GPS monitor, have no unsupervised contact with minors and have no contact with the victim.

The Durand Police have seen an uptick in property upkeep complaints. Durand Mayor Patrick Milliren says the police will write a citation if its something noticeable, but most of the complaints are called into the city.

Durand-Arkansaw School Resource Officer Schue is settling into his new position. Durand-Arkansaw School Superintendent Ryan Nelson says that Schue’s education experience will serve him well.

One person was killed in a single-vehicle accident near Red Wing on Monday. According to the Minnesota State Patrol, a 71yr old man from Red Wing was traveling on 7^th Street and attempting to go northbound onto Hwy 61 when he lost control of the vehicle and it went into the median, through the guardrail, and rolled onto its side. Roads were wet at the time of the accident.

The City of Wabasha and Three Rivers Community Action are looking for a child care provider to operate out of the historic Wabasha Mittle Schule building. The Wabasha Port Authority will provide 18 months of free rent, a fully equipped classroom along with business and licensing assistance. The goal is to make launching or relocating a childcare business more attainable and create another childcare option in Wabasha.

No one is injured after a fire in a four-unit townhouse in Eau Claire. Crews were dispatched Sunday morning and found heavy smoke and flames coming from a center unit. All occupants were safely evacuated, with the American Red Cross assisting displaced residents. Damage to the building and contents is estimated at one-point-two million dollars. The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

An Eau Claire tattoo artist is pleading guilty to charges of sexual assault. Christopher Ardoin -- a former tattoo artist at the Skin Prints Studio -- had been accused of inappropriately touching three women, including two clients and a coworker. On Friday, he pleaded guilty to two counts of third degree sexual assault and no contest to three counts of fourth degree sexual assault.

A former Western Wisconsin fifth-grade teacher is pleading guilty to sex crimes charges. Former Hudson educator Abigail Faust pleaded guilty yesterday to charges including child enticement-sexual contact and sexual assault of a child. She will be sentenced at a later date.

Gas prices continue to climb in Western Wisconsin. Triple-A reports the average price of regular fuel in Western Wisconsin is now four-19 per gallon -- 24-cents more per-gallon than it was last week. The average cost of a gallon of regular fuel in the State of Wisconsin is four-oh-eight per gallon -- 27-cents-per gallon more versus the week before.

Wisconsin hunters need to be sure of their target before pulling the trigger. The Department of Natural Resources is urging hunters to make sure they're not mistaking elk for white-tailed deer during hunting season. Elk sometimes roam outside the state's northern and central elk management zones, especially during the fall breeding season. Elk are larger than deer, have different antler shapes, and distinctive markings, including tan rump patches and black legs. Some may also be wearing orange tracking collars. Accidentally shooting an elk can result in fines and the loss of hunting privileges. Hunters can find identification guides on the DNR website.

Everwood Farmstead Foundation has announced ten-thousand dollars in grants has been awarded to school arts educators through its Aspiring Artists Fund. The grants will help fund creative projects and classroom resources for students across western Wisconsin. Foundation leaders say the goal is to support innovative arts programs and give young artists more opportunities to learn and grow. The organization has contributed more than 70-thousand dollars to local school programs since 2012. Recipients were recognized for projects ranging from music and visual arts, as well as programs designed to foster creativity and student engagement.

De Pere police officers are no longer allowed to use Flock automated license plate reader cameras. De Pere Police Chief Jeremy Muraski made the announcement Monday, citing concerns over data integrity and public trust. Muraski says Flock violated agreements by disclosing data without authorization, including offering to sell up to five years of traffic analytics. The cameras will be covered immediately, but will remain in place until they're removed by November 15th.

An athlete is dead after suffering a medical emergency during the IRONMAN 70.3 Wisconsin competition in Madison. Officials said the incident happened during the swimming portion of the event Saturday morning. UW Lake Rescue personnel brought the athlete to shore and began life-saving measures before emergency crews took over. The athlete was transported to a hospital, where they later died. IRONMAN USA confirmed the death and is not releasing further information out of respect for the family's privacy.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice has joined a coalition of states in two lawsuits challenging Trump administration changes to the Endangered Species Act. The suits target new federal rules that make it easier to alter or develop habitat used by threatened and endangered wildlife. State attorneys general argue the changes weaken long-standing protections and could speed the decline of vulnerable species. Wisconsin officials say habitat loss is already the leading cause of species decline and note the state is home to 233 endangered or threatened plants and animals.

The SS Badger won't be making trips across Lake Michigan today. The National Weather Service is predicting gale force winds on the Great Lakes for Tuesday, with possible 12 to 20 foot waves. The operators of the car ferry say that will make the crossings far too dangerous and have cancelled all service. The Badger will attempt to run on Wednesday, weather permitting.

Wisconsin archery deer hunters may want to focus on food sources as the season gets underway. DNR Interim Deer Specialist Derek Johnson says red oak acorn production looks strong across much of the state, making food sources a key factor in early season deer movement. Hunters are also encouraged to monitor local water conditions, especially in drier areas. Meanwhile, the DNR reminds hunters that baiting and feeding restrictions remain in place to help slow the spread of Chronic Wasting Disease. Reporting natural resource violations can be done confidentially through the state's 24-hour TIP-WDNR hotline.

Local-Regional News Sept 11

 

Friday

The Madison Street Project in Durand continues to stay ahead of schedule. Durand Mayor Patrick Mililren says the second layer of blacktop could be done next week.  The substantial completion date is October 15.

The city of Mondovi is considering changes to its ATV/UTV ordinance. Mondovi Mayor Brady Weiss says the city needs to have some regulations in place for proper use of alternative transportation methods, including e-bikes.  The council hopes to have some new rules to vote on at future council meetings.

Today is the final day for those interested in applying for an open seat on the Durand-Arkansaw School Board. Durand-Arkansaw School Superintendent Ryan Nelson says the open seat is for a city of Durand representative on the board, and applications are due today.  The open seat is a result of Cathy Asher resigning from the board as she is moving out of the city of Durand.

The Annual Laura Ingalls Wilder Days is this Saturday and Sunday in Pepin. Deb Fisher with Laura Days says there will be many different activities on Saturday.  On Sunday there is a pie-eating contest and the grand parade. For a complete list of events visit Laura Days Dot Org.

Prison is being ordered for a man involved in a crash earlier this year in La Crosse. Back in January, police say Brandon Foster was under the influence of methamphetamine and THC when he crashed -- first into another vehicle -- and later into the La Crosse County Law Enforcement Center. Foster pleaded guilty this week to charges including causing injury by operating a vehicle under a controlled substance and was sentenced to two years of probation.

Westby Cooperative Creamery in Vernon County is revealing results of a 14-million-dollar expansion. The co-op announced last year plans to install new refrigeration systems, 10-thousand-gallon tanks and a 30-thousand-gallon milk silo for the state's only cottage cheese manufacturing facility. With the installations complete, the results are being seen this week. The updates are expected to allow for an increase in production volume at the creamery and a reduction in production time.

The Osseo Community Foundation is receiving grant funding aimed at helping to renovate Stoddard Park. Twenty-five-thousand dollars is coming to the foundation through a 2026 Kubota Hometown Proud Grant. The funding will help to cover the cost of new playground equipment for the park.

There's rarely such a thing as free money, especially when it comes to college students. Wisconsin Better Business Bureau spokesperson Lisa Schiller says scammers have been posing as agencies offering cash to freshmen. "Guaranteeing that they can help reduce your loan payments or offer some type of a grant." Schiller says the scammers will likely request your personal and banking information to steal your identity, and also request a "service fee" in order to get the money they are offering. If you get one of these messages, report it to the B B B or Wisconsin Consumer Protection.

An eastern Wisconsin community is now the 14th in the state to remove fluoride from their city drinking water. The Two Rivers City Council voted 7-2 Tuesday night to remove the chemical after putting it in the water for the last 70 years. The practice of adding fluoride started in the 1940s in the U.S. as a way to help prevent cavities. City Manager Kyle Kordell brought the discussion to the council in July since it’s something the city has always done and wanted to know if the practice is something Two Rivers should continue to do. Most of the council members who voted to take the fluoride out felt that having the chemical in the water should be a personal choice for residents and not "forced on them." Those who wanted to keep fluoride in the water were concerned about low-income families not being able obtain it if they want it.

The Madison Common Council has rejected two requests for funding tied to the deadly police shooting on Williamson Street over the summer. This comes after the July shooting of Corey Ruiz sparked days of demonstrations and renewed calls for police accountability. One proposal would've provided additional funding for Madison's independent police oversight office, while another would've created a recovery program for businesses affected by the protests and encampment that followed the shooting. Council members debated the requests during Tuesday night's meeting before voting them down. Supporters argued the funding could've helped address community concerns and assist impacted businesses.

A 36 year old tradition comes to an end. Since 1990, the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association has hosted a gubernatorial debate. The WBA represents radio and television stations across the state. They put out an invitation last month for an October 9th debate to the candidates, Republican Tom Tiffany and Democrat David Crowley. Crowley's campaign manager said he was looking forward to participating in the debate. Tiffany told a conservative radio host this week that he felt one debate was sufficient. There is one, confirmed, scheduled debate for October 21st. It will be hosted by Milwaukee TV Station WISN.

Local-Regional News Sept 10

 

Security Financial Bank is reminding customers that scammers continue to target Paycheck Protection Program loan recipients, using publicly available loan information to make fraudulent communications appear legitimate. Scammers are impersonating financial institutions or other organizations and requesting repayment of loans and sensitive information. If you receive a call, text or email do not click on any links and do not give out any personal information. If you have any questions, contact your local financial institution in person.

The City of Mondovi Fire Department is purchasing a used pumper truck. Mondovi Mayor Brady Weiss says the pumper will replace a 1986 truck that has failed its latest inspections.  The cost of the truck is $240,000, and comes with a 1yr warranty. The city will have a chance to return the truck if it does not pass inspection when it arrives later this fall.

Students, staff and parents are adjusting to the new release times for the Durand-Arkansaw School District. District Superintendent Ryan Nelson says that things seem to be going well at the Middle School High School, but its still a work in progress at Caddie Woodlawn Elementary.  Nelson advises motorists to avoid the elementary school at dismissal time as its very busy, and he thanks parents for their patience during the transition.

Governor Evers has approved a $554,000 contract with Lunda Construction of Black River Falls for a project rehabilitating the Hwy 35 bridge over Waumandee Creek northwest of Fountain City. The project will make repairs to the bridge deck, overlay the deck with concrete, and replace the wing walls. The project will start on Monday and Hwy 35 will remain open to a single lane of traffic controlled by traffic signals. That project should be completed in late October.

Dunn County has identified a $1.4 million budget gap for 2027. According to County Manager Dan Dunbar, the projected shortfall is a result of state-imposed limits on property tax increases, employee compensation and benefit increases, inflation, human services placement expenses and increasing operations expenses. While the county executive committee is discussing a plan to use $700,000 from the County’s fund balance to offset the gap, department heads are being asked to find $700,000 in cuts. Dunbar warned that there will be no easy cuts and services to the public will be affected. A public hearing on the budget will be held in the middle of October with the full board approving the budget by November 10^th.

Alcivia Co-Op’s Durand office is moving. The office is moving from its current location on Hwy 10 to a new office at N6387 Hwy 25 on Friday and will have regular business hours of 8am-4pm Monday thru Friday. The Co-Op says no services will be affected by the move.

One person is dead after a two-vehicle crash in Jackson County. The JCSO says the accident happened Tuesday morning involved a semi tractor trailer and an SUV. EMS arrived on the crash and found one of driver's was dead. The driver of the other vehicle was not taken to the hospital for treatment. The incident remains under investigation.

Rochester police are investigating several fentanyl overdoses over the Labor Day weekend, including two that resulted in deaths. Authorities say a preliminary probe shows that narcotics that contained fentanyl may have led to the pair of deaths. Officers also took life-saving measures for other people who may have been overdosing.

Absentee ballots are in the mail for the November election, ahead of a ruling on President Trump's attempt to change mail in voting. The Wisconsin State Journal reports nearly 50,000 ballots have been printed or mailed by clerks. The White House made an emergency appeal to the US Supreme Court on Sunday to lift a stay on his executive order altering how the U S Postal Service handles ballots. It would require U S P S, and not the states, to maintain a absentee voter list and only allow ballots to be sent to those homes. A federal judge in Massachusetts issued the stay last month after multiple states, including Wisconsin, sued to challenge the President's executive order.

The State Patrol is urging parents to check their children's car seats. The Wisconsin State Patrol wants parents to double-check that children are riding in the correct seat for their age and size and that the seats are installed correctly. State data shows a child under 13 was injured or killed in a Wisconsin crash every five hours this year. Officials say nearly half of all car seats are installed incorrectly and remind parents to check the manual for their seat and make sure the seat is dully secure when in use. Wisconsin law requires children to remain in age-appropriate car seats or booster seats until meeting minimum age, height, and weight requirements.

Wisconsin education officials are getting a $10.5 million boost in their effort to fill special education classrooms. The five-year funding award will expand the STAIRS-WI program, which recruits and trains new special educators through a paid apprenticeship model. The grant will also support mentoring and professional development to help retain educators. State data shows it is difficult to retain special education teachers, with fewer than 44% teachers still in Wisconsin public schools by their eighth year.

Wisconsin deer hunters could see plenty of action this fall. The DNR says deer numbers are strong across much of the state after a third consecutive mild winter, with healthy reproduction and good survival rates. Officials say hunters should focus on food sources, including red oak acorn crops. As archery season gets underway, the DNR is also stressing safety, reminding hunters to wear a full-body harness when using tree stands. Meanwhile, chronic wasting disease testing will be available statewide, with extra sampling planned in parts of central and northern Wisconsin.

Attendance at this year's Minnesota State Fair is falling short of last year's total. More than one-point-nine-million people attended the 12-day fair, which is about 17-thousand fewer than in 2025. The fair set attendance records on its first two days, including more than 204-thousand visitors on day two. Attendance dropped below last year's numbers on most weekdays as heat and humidity moved into the area. Around 160-thousand people attended on Labor Day, several thousand more than last year.

Summerfest has announced its first headliner for 2027. Festival organizers announced Tuesday that the Grammy-winning group Zac Brown Band will perform June 25th at the American Family Insurance Amphitheater. The show is scheduled for the second night of Summerfest's opening weekend. Tickets go on sale September 11th at 10 a.m. through the festival's website, Ticketmaster and the venue's box office. Each concert ticket includes admission to Summerfest on the day of the show.

Local-Regional News Sept 9

 

The City of Durand is meeting tonight. Items on the agenda include pay requests for both the Madison Street and Memorial Park Band-Shell projects, along with reports from the Mayor and Department Heads. Tonights meeting begins at 6 pm at Durand City Hall.

The City of Mondovi is exploring ending its contract with Flock Cameras early. The city has 2 cameras and pays $9000 a year. Mondovi Mayor Brady Weiss directed the city administrator to review the contract for any early termination. Weiss says he believes the cameras are a valuable tool for police to solve crimes, but is the city getting its bang for its buck paying for the cameras?  If the city decides to terminate the contract, it will be decided at a future council meeting.

42-locations in Wisconsin, including Waltz Ace Hardware in Ellsworth and the Dairy Queen near Hwy 93 in Eau Claire are receiving grants to build electric vehicle charging stations. Governor Tony Evers and WDOT made the announcement Tuesday. The project, which totals 25-million dollars, was secured through the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure program. The charging stations are designed to ensure Wisconsinites and visitors will have access to charging stations needed to travel from point A to point B in the state. Governor Evers says "expanding our electric charging infrastructure and helping families save money on fuel is as important as ever."

A ceremony will be held at Veteran’s Park in Wabasha tomorrow to dedicate a new female Marine statue. The statue represents women who have served in the military, and was donated by the Wabasha American Legion Auxiliary Unit 50. Catherine Gallanberger, American Legion Commander, will preside over the ceremony, which begins at 10am tomorrow.

The Chippewa Valley Regional Airport is petitioning the State of Wisconsin for funding for airport improvements. The Airport would like to use state and federal aid to replace equipment in the air traffic control tower, construct additional hangar space, purchase new snow removal equipment, and make terminal improvements. While the airport has filed the petition, it could be a few years before all the projects are completed.

In Monroe County, one person is dead and five others are injured after a collision involving an Amish buggy. The Monroe County Sheriff's Office says the buggy was hit by an SUV this past Friday afternoon on Highway 131 in Tomah Township. A 37-year-old woman from the buggy was killed, while the SUV's driver and three people from the buggy -- ages 18 months to 24-years-old -- were taken to a hospital for care.

Students are returning today to Central High School in La Crosse. The school was closed yesterday after the discovery of damage cause by a burst water pipe. Clean-up will continue over the next few weeks, with the school's main office and Library Media Center having sustained the most damage.

A suspect charged in the killing of a teenager in Sawyer County is entering his plea. Sixteen-year-old Nolan Trotterchaude reportedly met up with 18-year-old Brennen Boswell and 19-year-old Xzavier Barreras back in June, with Trotterchaude interested in purchasing a firearm from one of the men. Prosecutors say Barreras fatally shot the young teen. Boswell yesterday pleaded not guilty to charges of felony murder and armed robbery.

The measles outbreak in southwestern Wisconsin is growing. Data from the state Department of Health Services shows there are now 151 confirmed cases of the illness, plus six probable cases. That's a jump of 15 cases from the previous count last week. Lafayette has the most confirmed cases at 71 and also has the six probable cases. Iowa County isn't far behind at 62 confirmed cases, followed by Grant County at 18. The agency noted the growing cases show an ongoing transmission among those who were previously identified as having the measles.

Senior homeowners are being warned about a fake property tax relief scam spreading online. The Wisconsin Department of Revenue is warning homeowners about an AI-generated video falsely claiming the federal government is offering property tax breaks for seniors. The video tells viewers to request a so-called "Senior Homeowner Tax Review Request" or "IRS Form 1098-SR," but state officials say neither exists. Revenue Secretary David Casey says the scam is designed to steal Social Security numbers, banking information, or fees for bogus filing services. Officials say property taxes are handled by state and local governments, not the federal government.

A new federal grant is helping the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources expand public hunting opportunities across the state. The agency has received three million dollars for its Voluntary Public Access Program, which pays private landowners to open their property to hunters. Program coordinator Gabriella LeFevre says it's the largest investment the program has ever received and will allow the DNR to offer stronger incentives to landowners. Officials say participating landowners see value in sharing their land with the public. Hunters can find participating properties and access maps through the DNR website.

It's peak season for some bothersome insects in southern Wisconsin. We can blame a mild winter in addition to an early, dry spring for a population boom. Pest control operators have been seeing a surge in calls for yellowjackets and hornets, which belong to the same family but are different. Yellowjackets are smaller, about a half an inch, while hornets can be an inch and a half. Yellowjackets will go after your food and drink and are quite aggressive about it. Hornets, grumpy pests themselves, are less likely to stalk us humans. And unlike honeybees, hornets and yellowjackets don't die after stinging. They do die from insecticides, of course or consecutive, hard frosts.

Wardens warn of increased boat crashes this summer. A report from the Department of Natural Resources shows 22 boat crashes so far this year, up 45 percent from last year. In most cases, at least one person involved in the crashes was not wearing a life vest. A drought statewide has caused water levels to drop on many lakes and rivers, making it more likely for boats to ground or hit debris in the water. Wardens also remind boaters to stay sober while driving, and to keep clear of other people on the water.

Republican nominee for Minnesota governor Lisa Demuth is defending close to three million dollars in outside PAC funding. She recently received the campaign donation from Restore Sanity, which is funded by Wisconsin billionaire Richard Uihlein, who is a top donor to President Trump. She denies any coordination between her and the outside group. Meanwhile, Demuth has been focusing on the nine-billion-dollar fraud scandal that forced DFL Governor Tim Walz to not run for a third term. She also holds opponent U.S. Senator Amy Klobuchar accountable for the fraud crisis

Two Wisconsin cities rank among some of the best places to retire in the country. Finance website WalletHub recently published a study aiming to determine the top cities for retirees to hang their hat after a long career. The research used cost of living and housing availability as some of the factors when ranking the top 182 cities. Madison was the highest-ranked in Wisconsin and 11th overall in the country, receiving high marks in the quality of life category. Milwaukee also made the cut and was ranked 73rd overall.