Local-Regional News Jan 30

 

A former Pepin County substitute teacher has been convicted on charges in a sex crimes case. Zachary Weber worked in the Durand-Arkansaw School District and this week pleaded no contest to charges of soliciting an intimate representation from a minor. Investigators say those charges stemmed from exchanges the defendant had with underage girls on Snapchat. He will be sentenced at a later date.

A Menomonie teen charged in connection with a deadly Dunn County hit and run is pleading guilty. The body of 54-year-old Ann Seidl was found lying in a ditch along County Highway Y on March 29th of last year. Authorities say that then-17-year-old Addison Bowell was the driver of the vehicle that hit Seidl and failed to stop. Bowell has pleaded guilty this week to charges including homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle. She continues to face a charge of hit-and-run involving death.

The Eau Claire City-County Health Department reports that respiratory viruses -- including influenza and COVID-19 -- continue to be diagnosed at a high rate locally. Folks are being encouraged to get vaccinated, to wash their hands often and to stay home from work or school if they are sick. In regards to the measles, local health officials say that there is no evidence of exposure or community spread in the county.

A factory closure in Western Wisconsin will put 200 people out of work and end the Wisconsin production of a classic motorcycle line. Polaris has announced that its factory in Osceola will close, ending production of the Indian motorcycle brand in Polk County. Indian was sold to a private equity firm last year, and the company is moving the production line from Osceola to a plant in Iowa. The closure will occur sometime this summer, according to Polaris. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development will be offering assistance to the displaced workers.

Bond is being set at 100-thousand dollars for a man authorities say violated a restraining order and injured law enforcement officers. Reports say that 19-year-old Nathaniel Witaker was served with a temporary restraining order Tuesday in Hillsboro. He was later found armed with a knife at a prohibited location. A police officer and a sheriff's deputy were injured while trying to take the suspect into custody. Whitaker faces charges including stalking and battery on a law enforcement officer.

Wisconsin residents are pushing for homeschooling as a valid education option for families. This comes during National School Choice Week, which helps raise awareness of all education options available for families. Supporters for this option say that it can provide "certain things that students can miss in traditional education." Critics are arguing that public funds should remain invested in only public education systems.

Help the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources track the state's black bear population. The DNR is asking for the public to report any black bear den locations as part of an ongoing statewide study on black bear reproduction and population. The survey will improve the accuracy of population models, as well as help researchers as they investigate a connection between consumption of human food and bear reproduction. If you come across a black bear den, note its GPS coordinates, take a photo from a safe distance, and describe the site and surrounding area. More info can be found on the DNR's website.

Minnesota farm communities are saying the ICE surge is going to be very damaging for business. In Willmar, the Minnesota Farmers Union has 18-thousand Minnesota members and says ICE raids have had a profound impact on their bottom line. One raid made headlines this month when ICE agents ate at a Willmar Mexican restaurant, then followed the workers home and arrested them afterward. Gary Wertish, president of the Minnesota Farmers Union, says workers are scared to come to Minnesota and even to other states. He predicts lower crop yields and ultimately higher prices at the grocery store.

Wisconsin and several other states won't have to give up federal funding for electric vehicle charging stations. A federal judge in Washington ruled last week that Wisconsin and 16 other states will continue to get grant funding to pay for improving coverage for those stations. The ruling preserves 62 million dollars in grants for the state. The Trump Administration last year froze the funding for the program over policy reasons, saying the country didn't need more electric vehicles. The judge said the White House violated procedures and couldn't stop congressionally approved spending.

After months of meetings and concerns from residents in the Deforest area, a big data center project has been officially scrapped. On Wednesday, QTS announced now is not the right time for our proposed project to move forward in the DeForest area. Earlier this week, the DeForest Village Board said the proposal was "not feasible." Many locals were apprehensive about the 12 billion dollar, 16 hundred acre data center campus proposal just outside of DeForest, citing worries of the environmental impact and decreasing property values. The “No Data Center in DeForest” group has more than 4-thousand followers on its Facebook page.

Donald Trump’s endorsement clears the Republican primary field for governor for Tom Tiffany. Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann announced Wednesday he will step aside from the race after President Trump endorsed 7th District Congressman Tom Tiffany. Schoemann said he was proud of his campaign, and that the move will allow Republicans to support one another, rather than fight. Tiffany wished Schoemann the very best and said he'll work to improve Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Democrat Party's response to Schoemann’s departure from the race was simply "Who?" The Democratic primary field to succeed Tony Evers remains crowded, with nine declared candidates.

Democratic Senator Amy Klobuchar is formally announcing her bid for governor of Minnesota. She released a video this morning said that "these times call for leaders who can stand up and not be rubber stamps of this administration." Klobuchar's announcement comes after current Governor Tim Walz announced he would be dropping his bid for a third term over criticism surrounding a statewide fraud scandal. It also comes as Minnesota has become the epicenter of President Trump's immigration crackdown.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation can help prospective voters obtain the necessary ID. Ahead of the Spring Primary Election on February 17, the Division of Motor Vehicles reminds residents how to obtain identification, free of charge, that is valid for voting. Valid ID for voting purposes includes a driver license, Tribal identification card, military or student ID and others. There is no separate “voter ID,” and a federally compliant REAL ID card is not required to vote. Not sure if your ID meets the requirements? Visit the Wisconsin Elections Commission website to check. To see a list of required documents needed to present at a DMV Customer Service Center in order to get ID to show at the polls, visit wisconsindmv.gov/idcards. 

Local-Regional News Jan 29

 

Buffalo County is getting another K-9 officer. Winona, Minnesota-based OZ Lifting Products LLC has funded another police dog, as its OZ canine donation program continues to positively impact local communities and law enforcement. Trace Erickson, a former law enforcement officer, leads 12-week training programs; he even utilizes an out-building on the property of OZ Lifting’s facility. Erickson will tailor the training program to focus on detection and patrol support. Special attention will be given to drug detection in addition to search and rescue. Ozzy, a German shorthair pointer, will be trained with handler, Deputy Joslin Carothers, this spring.

In Trempealeau County, police have arrested a suspect whose actions -- they say --led to the temporary lockdown of a school in Galesville. Reports say the armed man had barricaded himself inside a home not far from Galesville Elementary School on Tuesday. When the man exited the home and tried to drive off, he was taken into custody.

Chronic wasting disease reaches the endemic threshold in southeastern Minnesota. It means that the targeted culling no longer works in three of the deer permit zones at the center of its spread. According to state officials, Minnesota received 121 positive results from nearly 14-thousand samples analyzed from across the state during the 2025 deer seasons. This marks a 26-percent increase in positive cases from the previous year. The number of infected deer in that area has slowly ticked up over the last few years to the five-percent threshold.

The Chippewa Valley Regional Airport is hoping for high passenger numbers from last year to continue. Nearly 52,000 passengers went through the airport in 2025, that’s up 16 percent from 2024 and could mean a big year ahead. In 2025, the airport offered daily United flights to Chicago O’Hare International Airport. It also provided Sun Country seasonal services, which are set to start back up on Friday.

There will be no school today for students in Plainview-Elgin-Millville after a threat agains the district was received..  Superintendent Courtney Frie said a threat against the school district was called into the Plainview Police Department around 7:12 p.m last night. Police say they have spoken with several individuals who heard about the threats but are also seeking witnesses who either saw the specific threat or heard the suspect make the threat in person.

President Trump is making an endorsement in the race for the Republican nomination to be Wisconsin's next governor. Trump this week has announced his backing of 7th Congressional District Representative Tom Tiffany. The move prompted Washington County Executive Josh Schoemann to drop out of the race on Wednesday.

It’s Identity Theft Awareness Week, and Wisconsin’s Department of Trade and Consumer Protection is sharing ways to keep your information safe. Administrator Michelle Reinen says avoid storing sensitive data on your phone or computer, where scammers can get to it. She also recommends securing your mail with a lock or PO box and sending important documents directly at the post office. When you’re done with paperwork containing personal details, shred it. Reinen says never give out personal information in response to unexpected calls, texts, or emails. More tips are on DATCP’s website.

Health officials are warning residents of respiratory viruses active across the state. The Department of Health Services says flu, COVID-19, and RSV are circulating at elevated levels. COVID-19 activity is increasing, showing high levels in wastewater and laboratory results. RSV is rising statewide with the highest rates seen in children ages zero to four. DHS leaders are urging residents to get vaccinated, stay home when sick, and contact a doctor early if flu symptoms develop.

Governor Evers says Lincoln Hills and Copper Lake Schools are in full compliance with court-ordered reforms. The orders follow a lawsuit over child abuse allegations and a 2015 investigation citing excessive force, pepper spray use, and unsafe conditions. State officials say a court-appointed monitor has reviewed operations and confirmed compliance. The Evers administration is now asking a judge to end the federal consent decree, moving closer to closing the juvenile correctional facilities. Evers says a new youth facility opening later this year in Milwaukee will allow the state to transition away from the two schools.

The Wisconsin Court of Appeals closes the appeal process for convicted Waukesha Christmas Parade attacker Darrell Brooks. Tuesday's ruling denied a request from Brooks for an extension to file an appeal for postconviction relief. Brooks drove an SUV into the parade route, killing six people and injuring dozens more. Brooks has continued to seek postconviction relief from the multiple life sentences he received in 2022, submitting his 11th request last November. Court records obtained by Fox 6 Milwaukee show Brooks' filing time was extended to January 7th of this year, and "no further extensions of time will be granted."

One person is dead following a house fire in Shawano. Crews were called to the home at about 2:30 AM. By then the structure was fully engulfed. When they were able to make their way inside, they found one person deceased. Firefighters dealt with sub-zero temperatures in addition to the flames, witnesses also noted that smoke from the fire was visible for miles. investigators haven't determined the cause of the fire.

A Rochester man convicted of being a serial axe murderer is granted parole. The supervised release board voted five-to-two in favor of releasing David Brom. He was released from prison last July on a work release program. The decision to release the inmate came from a Supreme Court ruling that life without parole for individuals under 18 is unconstitutional. Brom was found guilty of murdering his family with an axe back in 1988.

The American Lung Association's annual State of Tobacco Control report has given Wisconsin failing marks. The report cites poor prevention funding, limited access to quitting services, and weak efforts on flavored tobacco products. The state also received a D for tobacco taxes and a B for smokefree workplace laws. Lung Association leaders are urging lawmakers to raise tobacco taxes and increase the legal age to buy tobacco from 18 to 21.  

Local-Regional News Jan 28

 

The Durand City Council is meeting tonight. Items on the agenda include discussion and possible action on the public engagement plan for the comprehensive plan project, an update from the Durand Fire District and reports from the Mayor and City Department heads. Tonights meeting begins at 6pm at Durand City Hall.

Officials of the Dunn County Treatment Court recently reported that 2025 was a successful year in helping individuals overcome addiction and rebuild their lives through evidence-based treatment and recovery support.  In 2025, the program served 17 participants, celebrated six successful graduations and had five new admissions, said Kayla Johnson, county Treatment Court Coordinator.  In 2025, Johnson added, the court received 20 referrals, including 15 self-referrals, two from defense attorneys, one from the District Attorney’s Office, and two from the state Department of Corrections. 

The Pierce County Fair is accepting applications for the Century and Sesquicentennial Farm and Home awards. Families whose property has remained in the same family for 100 or 150 years may qualify for recognition during the 2026 Pierce County Fair and the Wisconsin State Fair. Application deadline is March 1^st, and for more information, contact the Pierce County Fair at 715-273-6874.

Tuesday's scheduled arraignment of an Eau Claire man accused of killing a neighbor did not take place as scheduled. Shane Helmbrecht is charged with intentional homicide in the fatal shooting of neighbor Jenn Ward in 2016. Helmbrecht had previously been found incompetent to stand trial, and was sent to a group home that he later walked away from -- only to later be found in Mexico. Tuesday's hearing was delayed with Helmbrecht continuing an appeal. Another hearing is scheduled to take place in March.

A Sparta man has been sentenced to prison in connection with the death of a Sparta woman in February of 2024. 53yr old Timothy Burns pleaded no contest to manufacturing and delivering the narcotics that killed the woman. He was sentenced to two years in prison and three years of extended supervision.

Authorities are continuing to investigate a deadly collision that happened Monday night in Jackson County. The Jackson County Sheriff's Office says a driver traveling on County Highway P lost control and went left of center and into the path of an oncoming vehicle. One of the drivers was killed and the other was left injured.

Minnesota Energy Resources has asked customers to decrease natural gas usage through Friday, Jan. 30, as extreme cold weather causes volatile prices and higher bills. MER spokesperson Alison Trouy says “The price that we pay for natural gas is the price our customers pay. There’s no markup there. The extreme cold, both in Minnesota and across the country, is really to blame for this. The company recommended lowering thermostats by a few degrees during the continued freezing temperatures. Additional conservation methods include avoiding fireplace use, using gas ranges sparingly, opening blinds during the day, and closing them at night to contain warmth from the sun.

A former high school principal is formally charged for failing to report child abuse. Online court records show Jennifer Ploeger is charged with three misdemeanor counts of failing to report child abuse during her time as principal at Sun Prairie West High School. The charges stem from an investigation into former West dean of students Robert Gilkey-Meisegeier. An independent investigation found that Ploeger was told multiple times that Gilkey-Meisegeier had inappropriate relationships with students, but Ploeger wrote the allegations off as rumors. Gilkey-Meisegeier pleaded guilty last week in federal court to a count of producing child pornography. Ploeger is set to make an initial court appearance in early March.

US Senator Tammy Baldwin wants the resignation of D H S Secretary Kristi Noem and the removal of ICE agents from Minneapolis. Speaking on Tuesday, the Wisconsin Democrat says Noem oversaw the deaths of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. "We watched as ICE agents shot Alex 10 times, even as Alex laid motionless on the ground." Baldwin also will be a no vote on any funding bill that includes ICE funding without reforms. There's a government shutdown set to take place at the end of the month if no continuing resolution is passed.

Wisconsin residents are being warned about a new payment scam via email. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation says scammers are impersonating tolling agencies and "sending fake email notifications claiming recipients owe overdue toll fees." Victims who click on the link in the emails are taken to websites designed to look like legitimate toll payment portals. Officials are saying anyone who receives these emails should report them and delete them immediately.

A massive data center project in Racine County gets the green light. The Mt. Pleasant Village Board Monday night approved site plans for 15 more data centers near Microsoft’s existing facility at the former Foxconn site. Village President David DeGroot tells FOX 6 Milwaukee that, “Data center AI is an emerging market, and I think that there isn't a better spot for us to be in.” Microsoft is already building two data centers on the site. Though some residents remain opposed to more, the vote by the seven-member board was unanimous.

The Wisconsin Elections Commission may be getting involved in an elections lawsuit against the city of Madison. WEC met in closed session on Tuesday to discuss that lawsuit brought by the liberal law firm Law Forward. A group of residents is suing the city for failing to count nearly 200 ballots in the 2024 presidential election. The Elections Commission previously ruled that the city erred in that failure and directed it to create policies that would prevent miscounts in the future. Madison officials dispute the Commission's authority to actually dictate city policy but did not officially contest the ruling. It's unclear what actions WEC might take in the current lawsuit. The commission did not discuss anything in open session.

A Wisconsin Corrections staffer has been fired following an investigation that began after Morgan Geyser left a Madison group home last year. Geyser and a friend were convicted in the 2014 Slender Man stabbing when both they and their victim were 12. Now 24-years-old, she walked away from a Madison group home on November 22nd. Geyser and a 43-year-old man were taken into custody the following evening south of Chicago. Three Department of Corrections employees were the subject of personnel investigations related to the incident. A DOC spokesperson confirmed that two have returned to work after serving unpaid suspensions of three and five days, while the third employee was terminated. Geyser has been returned to the Winnebago Mental Health Institute in Oshkosh.

Chris Madel is dropping out of the Minnesota governor's race and said he can't support federal retribution. His exit comes as some other Republicans have started to distance themselves from the Trump administration's immigration crackdown in the state. In a surprise video announcement, the attorney said he supported the originally stated goals of ICE in Minnesota, but the effort has expanded far beyond its stated focus on true public safety threats. After launching his campaign on December 1st, he quickly rose from a relative political unknown to a top contender for the GOP nomination. He launched his campaign as a staunch defender of law enforcement and has recently provided legal counsel to Jonathan Ross, the ICE agent who shot and killed Renee Good on January 7th.

Local-Regional News Jan 27

 

The Mondovi City Council is meeting tonight. Items on the agenda include discussion of the 2026 Landfill Monitoring Proposal with Oakridge Engineering, discussion of the upcoming meeting with the WI DOT on the Hwy 37 project, and reports from the Mayor and Department heads. Tonights meeting begins at 5:30 at the Marten Center in Mondovi.

The Pepin County Sheriff’s Department is seeking the public's help for tennis balls. K9 Officers Jack and Pasca use tennis balls as part of their training. Because both are such enthusiastic chewers, the department goes through tennis balls fairly quickly. The department is asking the community for donations of lightly used tennis balls in good condition. Donations can be dropped of at the sheriff’s department.

A Tremplealeau man has been sentenced to 20yrs in federal prison after being convicted on child porn and other sexual assault charges. Stephen Jenkins was sentenced last week in federal court in Madison. According to federal authorities, Jenkins sexually assaulted three children, videotaped the assaults and also had hundred of child porn images in his possession. Along with the prison sentence, Jenkins was fined $15,000.

The City of Menomonie is offering up to $20000 in funding for projects and programs to help improve the quality of life in the city. The city is currently accepting applications for the Nonprofit Financial Assistance Grant program. The grant will support non profit groups and the deadline to apply is February 19. Contact Menomonie City hall for more information.

An arrest warrant was issued Friday for an Appleton man accused in the sexual assault of a child. Michael Rouse allegedly assaulted the victim inside his Eau Claire home in 2003 when she was eleven-years-old and he was 25. Police say there are other victims.

A suspect wanted in connection with a Monday morning stabbing in Holmen is now in custody. Police received word early yesterday morning that a stabbing victim was receiving treatment at a local hospital and later arrested 24-year-old Dennis Hernandez on charges including substantial battery. The victim's injuries are described as non life-threatening.

A suspect accused of gunning down a man in Rochester and then breaking into a home is in custody. The crime happened yesterday. Officers responded to the scene in the 12-hundred block of Marion Road Southeast. They found a man on the ground with a gunshot wound. The victim was transported to a hospital where he died later. Authorities say the suspect broke into a home only miles from the shooting scene. Charges are pending in the case. Police say in a preliminary report that the victim and the suspect were related.

A Medford woman is pleading guilty to charges stemming from robberies at a pair of Jackson County banks. Banks in Black River Falls and Alma Center were robbed in 2018 and 2019 and two people have been charged. Defendant Michaela Davis has pleaded guilty to charges including conspiracy to commit robbery of a financial institution. She has been sentenced to one year of conditional jail time and ten years of probation.

Measles is confirmed in Wisconsin. A Waukesha County case marks the first confirmed case of measles in Wisconsin this year. The Wisconsin Department of Health Services says the case is related to international travel and is working to identify and notify people who may have been exposed. DHS encourages you to check your vaccination status to make sure you're protected from the virus. Symptoms include runny nose, high fever and a red rash with raised bumps that starts at the hairline and moves to the arms and legs. More info can be found on the DHS website.

There’s already a revision in the works for Wisconsin’s school cell phone law. Representative Lindee Brill of Sheboygan Falls chairs the Speakers Task Force on Protecting Kids. She says proposals include a change to Wisconsin’s newly enacted law which allows school districts to restrict student cell phone use during the school day. Brill says a "bell-to-bell"  ban on student phone use has be adopted in other states and has bipartisan support. The task force has drafted ten bipartisan bills, including an ap store accountability act, warning labels on explicit content and mental health warnings for social media. The Task Force on Protecting Kids is one of several which have produced bills for legislative consideration during the rest of the current session.  

 

The chancellor of UW-Madison is leaving the school for another job. Officials announced Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin has accepted a position as the next president of Columbia University. Mnookin is expected to remain in her current role through the spring commencement before moving on to her new job. An interim chancellor is expected to be named soon while the Board of Regents searches for a permanent replacement.

The NRA and Minnesota gun rights advocates are rejecting Trump officials blaming Alex Pretti for being armed. Rob Doar, senior vice president of the Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus, said he's confident that the gun taken from Pretti's waist is the same gun in the photo posted on social media by the DHS. Doar concluded, "If Mr. Pretti was disarmed, absent any other evidence of any risk to an officer, I don't see how deadly force would be justified." U.S. Attorney for the Central District of California, Bill Essayli, posted on X, saying, "If you approach law enforcement with a gun, there is a high likelihood they will be legally justified in shooting you." The National Rifle Association responded to his comments, saying responsible public voices should be awaiting a full investigation, not making generalizations and demonizing law-abiding citizens.

A new survey shows Wisconsin employers don't think students are prepared for the workforce. The survey from Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce finds over half of responding employers say Wisconsin’s K-12 education system does not adequately prepare students for the workforce. Survey data shows 64 percent of employers indicated their employees struggle with reading, math, or both. 30 percent of respondents have had to resort to remedial education or tutoring for employees. According to the survey, only 10 percent of Wisconsin employers rate the quality of their local school district as excellent.

An author of Bradyn's Law, a new state statute that criminalizes sextortion, is already looking to expand upon it. Representative Brent Jacobson of Mosinee says victims of the crime, including their families if the victim dies by suicide, should be able to sue for damages and be compensated for their losses. Braydn’s Law is named is named in honor of Bradyn Bohn, a 15-year-old D.C. Everest Junior High School student who died by suicide in March 2025 after falling victim to a sextortion scheme. Jacobson’s proposal would clarify potential damages in state law, making it easier for civil lawsuits to stick. Jacobson says getting it through before the end of the session may be a stretch, but he's confident the measure can get bipartisan support and could be re-introduced next year if needed.

Wisconsinites can support conservation during tax season by donating to the DNR’s Endangered Resources Fund. Natural Heritage Conservation Director Drew Feldkirchner says the fund helps protect rare plants, animals, and the state’s natural areas. Donations are tax‑deductible and support efforts ranging from bat conservation to maintaining Wisconsin’s historic State Natural Areas. More details are available on the DNR website.

Governor Tony Evers is supporting Minnesota Governor Tim Walz following the death of a Wisconsin native. Evers announced Monday that Wisconsin is joining a multi-state lawsuit against the Trump Administration and ICE, and said federal agents are endangering Americans and having their rights violated. "It has to stop," said Evers. The lawsuit accuses ICE and other agencies of overstepping their authority and taking unlawful actions against legal residents. Quote "This has nothing to do with public safety." ICE agents on Saturday shot and killed Green Bay native Alex Pretti while he was being restrained on the ground, claiming he had a weapon, and killed Renee Good earlier this month while she was driving away from agents, claiming she was threatening them with her vehicle.

Local-Regional News Jan 26

 

No one was injured in a machine shed fire near Alma on Saturday. According to the Buffalo County Sheriff’s Department, firefighters from Alma, Mondovi, Nelson and Waumandee responded to the fire at W1829 Pony Trail and were able to extinguish the fire quickly. Firefighters believe the fire may have started by a heater being used to warm a vehicle inside the building. With the cold weather, authorities are reminding residents to take extra precautions when using space heaters.

No one was injured after Buffalo and Pepin County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to a subject armed with a knife and experiencing a mental health crisis in Mondovi on Saturday morning. According to the Buffalo County Sheriffs Department, deputies responded to the scene on West Main Street and were able to communicate with the subject and safely placed the individual into protective custody. Hwy 10 was closed for a short period of time and there was no threat to the public at any time. If you or someone you know is experiencing a mental health crisis, help is available by calling the Northwest Connections Crisis Line at 888-552-6642.

Ntec is warning customers of a scam. If you receive an email asking you to verify account information from a nelson-tel.com address it is not from Ntec and is a scam. Do not click on the links or share any personal details. If you have questions contact Ntec directly.

The Pierce County Sheriff’s Department and Wisconsin Department of Transportation are warning residents of another fake texting scam. The new scam warns of “unpaid vehicle fees” and includes a fraudulent link to get you to pay for the fake violation. The Sheriff’s Department reminds residents the WI DMV will never text or email you saying you owe money. If you receive one of these messages do not click on the link and just delete it.

Winona County says it has identified and responded to a ransomware incident affecting its computer network on Friday. The county noted that upon discovery, it initiated an investigation to assess the scope and impact of the incident. It is working closely with a third-party cybersecurity and data forensics-experts, as well as local, state and federal law enforcement. Winona County says it will provide an update when more information becomes available, and thanks everyone for their patience as it implements business continuity measures.

Months after the mayor of La Crosse ordered its temporary closure, Cameron Park is reopening. Burns Park and Cameron Park were closed in September due to what Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey said were safety concerns involving the behavior of sheltered and unsheltered individuals. Burns Park was reopened in December and Cameron Park is to be reopened tomorrow.

Two people were left injured after a single-vehicle weekend crash in Vernon County. Authorities say 61-year-old John Harnish lost control of his vehicle on a curve in the in the Town of Wheatland, went down an embankment and hit several trees. Harnish was taken to a local hospital for care and there has been no word on his condition. A passenger from the vehicle suffered injuries that are described as minor.

A Juneau County man faces murder charges in the death of his father. Prosecutors filed first degree homicide charges last week against 34-year-old Jacob Sanders of Mauston. Mauston police allege Sanders killed 73-year-old Michael Sanders last Wednesday and then stole his car and fled the state. He was arrested in Terre Haute, Indiana where police allege there was blood in the car and on Jacob's hands. Jacob is being held in the Vigo County Indiana jail awaiting extradition. The cause of Michael Sanders' death has not been released.

A federal judge is ordering ICE and DHS not to destroy or alter evidence in the Alex Pretti fatal shooting. A federal judge has granted the temporary restraining order brought by Minnesota Attorney General Keith Ellison. He said during a press conference on Sunday that if federal officials openly defy the court order, state officials will pursue legal recourse. Minneapolis police had called for the state Bureau of Criminal Apprehension to investigate the shooting, and it says it obtained a search warrant for the scene, but its investigative team was blocked by federal agents from accessing the area. Pretti, a Minneapolis resident, was shot and killed by federal agents Saturday morning on Nicollet Avenue near 26th Street.

Wisconsin officers may stop prioritizing the breathalyzer on drivers. A new bill introduced would let police test drivers' oral fluid by asking for a breath test, a saliva test or both to look for drugs. Senator Jesse James says that "oral fluid tests can quickly screen for six types of drugs, including THC and meth." He also says the tests are meant to only help officers decide weather they have enough cause to make an arrest or if more testing is needed. The bill is now waiting for more action in the Senate.

Legislation to strengthen interlock ignition device laws passes in the Wisconsin Senate. The bill would add 180 days to an interlock ignition device order for a number of offenses, including tampering with the device, removing it without authorization or trying to start a vehicle with a blood alcohol content of .02 or more. Penalties for violating a device order would also increase, including fines of up to $1,100 and up to six months in jail. The bill would also eliminate waiting periods to apply for an occupational license after a device is installed. The bill now heads to the Assembly, where it's also expected to pass.

Two Republican authored amendments to the Wisconsin Constitution will be on the statewide ballot in November following approval by the state Senate this week. One amendment, which Democrats argue targets DEI initiatives, would prohibit discrimination or preferential treatment in public employment and education based on race, sex, color, ethnicity or national origin. Republicans argue existing diversity, equity and inclusion efforts in state and local governments are discriminatory and exclusionary. Democrats opposed the amendment, arguing it would harm disadvantaged people regardless of race and make it more difficult to attract people to seek employment or education in Wisconsin. A second amendment would prohibit governments from closing a house of worship during a state emergency. Both will appear on ballots statewide in the November election. The Senate also approved an amendment which would bar governors from using their partial veto to create or increase any tax or fee. That will need to pass both chambers of the Legislature for a second time before going to voters.

Open government advocates are putting pressure on lawmakers to reach a deal to revive WisconsonEye. The state's version of C-SPAN would broadcast every floor session of the state Senate and Assembly for free before it was shut down due to financial issues. Rules became enforced from Republicans that prohibited the public from live streaming or recording proceedings. Governor Tony Evers said he would support a fundraising deal to revive the network as long as "the state wasn't paying for all" of its budget.

Mayo Clinic officials say they have performed a record number of organ transplants in 2025. The facility conducted two-thousand-65 operations last year. The new record surpassed two-thousand-and-six organ transplants in 2024. Mayo said the record number of transplants is encouraging as the number of patients waiting on the national transplant list remains very high.

Can trees explode in the extreme cold? With the onset of frigid temperatures around Wisconsin, plenty of viral posts are claiming that can happen, but a TikTok video from Muskego arborist Jonathan Roberts explains that when the temperatures drop quicker than normal, the moisture in the sap contracts more quickly causing a cracking or popping sound in the tree. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources explains that the cooling sap causes small cracks to become larger which leads to the popping. Trees that hold onto more moisture like birch and maple trees are most likely to be affected. If that leads to concern about the health of a tree in your backyard, you’re advised to contact an arborist to assess the tree’s condition. Exploding trees are a rare occurrence according to the DNR.

Local-Regional News Jan 23

 

Dangerously cold weather is hitting the Chippewa Valley. The National Weather Service says wind chills as low as 45 below is expected. The cold weather is expected to remain in the area into the weekend. An extreme cold warning is in effect for the region. The dangerously cold wind chills could cause frostbite on exposed skin in as little as ten minutes.

Dunn County Representative Clint Moses is introducing legislation to ensure transparency and accountability in data center development across Wisconsin. The bill would prohibit data center developers from entering into nondisclosure agreements or similar arrangements that conceal material information from local governments or property owners. If a developer violates this transparency requirement, no city, village, town, or county could approve the project. The proposed bill comes in response after a Menomonie put a proposed data center on hold after community concerns.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation will be holding a public meeting on January 29^th from 5-7pm at the Marten Community Center in Mondovi to talk about a pavement replacement project on Hwy 37 from Hwy 88 in the town of Mondovi to Hwy 10 in the city of Mondovi. The pavement is nearing the end of its life and will be replaced, along with widening the shoulders, installing new storm sewers and water mains in the city of Mondovi. The project is scheduled for 2027.

An area lawmaker is pushing an effort to make schools safer. Wisconsin State Senator Jesse James has introduced the Senate version of bills that would update how Wisconsin schools handle safety plans. If approved, the measures would standardize school lockdown announcements for emergencies and require safety plans to include procedures for informing students and families when an incident happens. The Thorp Republican says these bills are in response to the deadly Abundant Life school shooting in Madison in 2024.

Home sales in Wisconsin ended the year with moderate growth. According to the Wisconsin Realtors Association, December home sales in the state rose 4% compared to 2024. In Western Wisconsin, Pepin County reported 7 homes sold, Buffalo County 15, Pierce County 19 and Dunn County had 34 homes sold in December. The median price of a home in Western Wisconsin was $290,000 below the statewide median of $312,750.

People’s Energy Cooperative (PEC) is warning its members of scammers, who are targeting PEC members. PEC says multiple members have been targeted in this scam, where the scammer calls and indicates they have a bill that is past due, and needed to pay immediately or be disconnected. Members are reminded that if they receive a call from someone claiming to represent a utility company, and the caller asks for personal information or threatens disconnection without immediate payment, to hang up and call the customer service number on your bill. PEC adds that staff will never request bank or payment information from its members over the phone.

A Rochester-area man accused of causing a deadly crash while using Snapchat on his cellphone is getting probation. Eric Wittlief was sentenced yesterday in Winona County District Court. The collision involving the Oronoco man's pickup truck and a car happened in 2021. Wittlief's passenger, Christ Brown, died from blunt-force injuries. The defendant agreed to reckless driving and careless driving as part of a plea deal. Wittlief was also ordered to perform 40 hours of community service.

Senator Amy Klobuchar is inching closer to a run for Minnesota governor. Klobuchar has publicly confirmed an interest in running for governor, and she filed paperwork with the Minnesota Campaign Finance and Public Disclosure Board on Thursday. The move comes after current Governor Tim Walz announced he would be dropping his bid for a third term over recent criticism surrounding a statewide fraud scandal. A Klobuchar governor campaign would be a boost for Democrats who welcome the prospect of her running.

The Wisconsin Conservation Congress is asking residents to submit ideas for new or updated laws affecting the state’s natural resources. Vice‑Chair Paul Reith says the Congress—created nearly 90 years ago—serves as a way for the public to advise the DNR on issues like wildlife, air, and water quality. Citizens can submit resolutions now through February 9th, and those proposals will be reviewed for the 2026 Spring Hearing, held in every county on April 13th and available online through April 15th. Reith notes that major policies, including Wisconsin’s blaze orange requirement, have come from this public process. More information is available on the DNR’s website.

Organizers are revealing several headliners for this summer's Northern Wisconsin State Fair. Country band Sawyer Brown will perform opening night on July 8th. Sugar Ray and Uncle Kracker take the stage on July 10th, while 1980s tribute band Hairball will entertain the crowd on July 9th. The Northern Wisconsin State Fair will be held July 8th through the 12th in Chippewa Falls.

Wisconsin GOP members are asking for mental health services to be expanded across to Wisconsin high schoolers. The two-year pilot program would be launched in the 2026-2027 school year and would provide at least 50-thousand-students help through an online tool. It would provide behavioral health education resources, peer-to-peer support and access to private virtual sessions with licensed mental health professionals. A report by the Wisconsin Office of Children's Mental Health found that only half of the state's high school students felt like they belonged in the classroom.

A bill to regulate data center projects in Wisconsin passed the state Assembly this week – but Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu says it needs work. Prior to the Senate's Wednesday floor session, the Republican leader said it seems as if often bills are rushed through the Assembly, while the Senate takes its time. Senate. LeMahieu said he likes the intent of the bill, but Senate Republicans haven't had a full caucus discussion on it yet. The Republican authored bill would require the Wisconsin Public Service Commission to make sure that utility ratepayers are insulated from new costs linked to data centers, and that any renewable energy facilities intended to mainly serve a data center to be located on-site. The bill passed the Assembly with few Democrats in support, and Senate Minority Leader Dianne Hesselbein said it would need a lot of changes to get Democratic support in that chamber.

WisconsinEye, the state’s version of C-SPAN, has been offline since December. State Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu provided an update on Wednesday. The Republican leader said that on December 23rd, the co-chairs of the joint Legislative Audit Committee sent WisconsinEye a letter asking them specific questions, with a deadline of January 9th to respond. LeMahieu said there was no response from WisconsinEye until Wednesday morning, which he hadn’t had a chance to review. The Senate’s Wednesday floor session was livestreamed on the Legislature’s website. WisconsinEye is currently fundraising to resume operations. LeMahieu said the outlet has not contacted lawmakers to access $10 million in matching funds.

Another central Wisconsin community has brought a PFAS treatment facility online. WAOW-TV in Wausau reports the village of Rothschild received 7 point 5 million dollars in grants to build the facility to remove PFAS from the city's water supply. Tests in 2022 detected the contaminants in the village wells. The system is similar to one that Wausau installed several years ago. Village Administrator Ryan VanDeWalle says PFAS levels are dropping to near non-detectable levels.

Former broadcaster Michele Tafoya is running for U.S. Senate. On Wednesday, the former "Sunday Night Football" sideline reporter announced her bid for Minnesota's open U.S. Senate seat. Tafoya described herself as a "political outsider and a reformer" who will "clean up the system" by "fighting corruption and ending fraud." Despite getting early backing from the National Republican Senatorial Committee, Tafoya will still need to prevail in a crowded GOP race this fall. If she wins the GOP nomination, Tafoya will still need to defeat either Representative Angie Craig or Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan in November.

The Department of Natural Resources is looking for some seasonal help in state parks. A wide range of position types are available that include opportunities in land management, outdoor recreation and education. The DNR says these seasonal jobs in the State Park System are a great way to spend your summer outside and help the public enjoy Wisconsin's natural resources. Some of the positions available include park rangers, natural resources educators, and campground attendants. Jobs typically start in the spring to early summer and extend through late summer to fall. More info can be found on the DNR's website.