Local-Regional News July 16

A boil order is in place in the City of Menomonie. The city issued a Precautionary Boil Water Advisory following a significant loss of pressure within portions of the municipal water system. The loss of pressure was due to high water demand. Residents are advised to boil water used for drinking, cooking, brushing teeth, preparing food, making ice and infant formula until further notice.

Wildfire smoke from fires in southern Ontario, Canada and northeast Minnesota has moved into Wisconsin. The Wisconsin DNR has issued an Air Quality Advisory for the entire WRDN listening area due to the unhealthy air quality conditions. Wildfire smoke is said to affect anyone, but people who may notice symptoms sooner include older adults, young children, people who are pregnant, outdoor workers and individuals with heart or lung conditions.

A former Eau Claire North High School teacher accused of sexually assaulting a child is facing more child sex crime charges. Nadia Horn was first charged in March over allegations involving two victims. She now faces new charges after prosecutors say a third victim was identified during a search of her phone. The person was freshman at North High School at the time.

An Eau Claire man is pleading guilty in a child sexual assault case last year. Court records say James Barbey entered a guilty plea to multiple charges, including second-degree sexual assault of a child. A sentencing hearing is scheduled for December 21st.

One person is dead after a vehicle rear-ended a stopped dump truck in Utica Township on Monday. According to the Winona County Sheriff’s Department, 43yr old Zackary Ford of Winona was traveling on County Road 29 when he rear ended the stopped dump truck that was waiting at a flagman in a construction zone. Ford was unresponsive when first responders arrived and died at the scene.

Tomorrow is the final day to register for the 30^th Annual Durand Youth Fishing Contest. There are three different age categories and 9 different fish categories and fishing will be allowed in all publicly accessible waterways withing 25 miles of Durand City Hall. Youth can register at Ryans Sports Shop or through the Durand Youth Fishing Contest Facebook Page. All participants must be registered by tomorrow. The Contest will be held next Wednesday through Saturday.

Authorities are identifying three family members found dead earlier this month in Rusk County. Deputies were responding to a welfare check on July 9th at a home on Poplar Road in the Township of Hawkins when they located Rocky Griffith and Lona Kelley dead from gunshot wounds. Their son, Chad Griffith, was also found dead from a self-inflicted gunshot wound. Investigators believe Chad killed his parents before taking his own life.

The cyclosporiasis outbreak is impacting Wisconsinites. The state Department of Health Services has confirmed at least 43 cases since May, although fewer than 10 were acquired domestically. The stomach illness can cause intense diarrhea and discomfort. Most of the cases in the Badger State have been the result of traveling internationally. Doctors recommend washing your produce, such as lettuce, before consuming to help prevent catching the parasite.

Some scrutiny for the world’s richest man here in Wisconsin. On a 5-1 vote the Wisconsin Elections Commission finds probable cause that Elon Musk broke state law by offering $1 million to people to vote in the 2025 state Supreme Court election. Brown County’s District Attorney is tasked with determining whether to prosecute Musk. The criminal referral stems from two complaints filed against Musk from social media posts just prior to the election in which Susan Crawford defeated Brad Schimel. One offered awards to people at a rally in Green Bay in appreciation of voting. That was taken down and replaced with an offer of two $1 million awards to rally attendees for signing a petition opposing activist judges. Wisconsin’s election bribery law prohibits offering anything valued above $1 to cast a ballot.

Vehicles seized from a convicted fraudster will be sold at auction. Hundreds of power-sports items that once belonged to Stanley Pophal, the Wausau man who stole more than 14 million dollars from 190 investors, will hit the auction block later this month. According to the US Department of Justice the listing includes snowmobiles, motorcycles, dirt bikes, and go-karts, and all proceeds will go towards restitution for the 64-year-old's victims. Apple Auctioneering will handle the sale, which will be conducted online. Those interested in bidding are encouraged to sign up early. Pophal pled guilty to federal money laundering and wire fraud in June, he's scheduled to be sentenced in September.

President Trump is endorsing Mike Lindell for Minnesota governor. The Commander-In Chief announced today that he is backing the MyPillow founder in the GOP primary election next month. President Trump also took a shot at incumbent Governor Tim Walz by calling him one of the worst and incompetent governors in U.S. history. He added that Lindell is one of the most hard-working Patriots. The other two Republican candidates for governor are Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth and retire health care executive Kendall Qualls, who won the state GOP endorsement in May. The election is set for August 11th.

Investigators from the Marathon County Sheriff's office are still looking for leads following the theft of 20 head of cattle valued at 50-thousand dollars. Deputies were called July 8th to Kingdom Haven Farm after the owners said the animals were discovered missing the morning before. Investigators say there were no signs of forced entry at gates, fences or the cattle barn. Authorities believe the suspect backed a livestock trailer into the west side of the barn to load the cattle. The case remains active, with officials saying they plan to canvass the area for possible surveillance footage from nearby homes or businesses.

A vacant Madison landmark will house a company researching nuclear fusion. Realta Fusion has announced the former Oscar Meyer plant on the city’s north side as its new corporate headquarters. The Madison-based group is expanding its research team and needs the space, according to CEO Kieran Furlong. Realta's goal is to create stable nuclear fusion which would be able to generate enormous amounts of power without generating nuclear waste. That goal is still a long way off, but Realta's hope is to generate new prototypes in Madison that get closer to sustainable fusion

We Energies is installing new tracking devices -- on falcon chicks. Peregrine falcons are notoriously hard to track once they leave their nests like the ones installed on power plants across Wisconsin. That's why We Energies and Wisconsin Public Service turned to an emerging technology to band and track the birds. The Blue Morpho system uses solar power to ping cell phone towers and more effectively track the birds, who like to nest high up on cliffs and towers. 

Local-Regional News July 15

 

The identities of three people killed in a weekend pontoon crash on Lake Pepin on the Wisconsin side have been released. The collision on Saturday involved a boat and a barge. All three victims are from Wabasha. They are identified as Ashley Monson, Manuel De Angel-Sola, and Nicholas Loechler. De Angel-Sola and Loechler were members of the Wabasha Fire Department.

WisDOT seeking input on the US 10 reconstruction project through Mondovi. The Multiyear construction project includes replacing pavement, utilities, sidewalk, curb, gutter. During construction, US 10 will be closed to through traffic. Because of lengthy detours, construction will be split into stages, that would include using Hwy 37, Hwy 85, Hwy 93 and I-94. The use of city streets is also being considered. A public meeting on the project will be held on June 29 from 5-7pm at the Marten Center in Mondovi.

An Elk Mound man was recently arrested for OWI with a minor in the vehicle. According to the Wisconsin State Patrol, troopers pulled over 24yr old Thomas Hager of Elk Mound for seat belt and vehicle equipment violations on North Holly Avenue in Elk Mound. The trooper noticed signs of impairment and field sobriety tests indicated Hager was under the influence. He was arrested and taken to the hospital for a blood draw and then taken to the Dunn County Jail. He faces OWI First offense with a minor in the vehicle, possession of drug paraphernalia and bail jumping.

The City of Menomonie is installing a lawn irrigation ban on local residents. City officials say the heat is resulting in extreme demands from its water system and that, in turn, is affecting water pressure. The water pressure issues could have an impact on first responders' ability to battle fires. The ban has been put in place until August 1st.

Charges filed against a Menomonie man who police say fatally stabbed his mother Eau Claire are being held for trial. Investigators say that 27-year-old Michael Hurlburt stabbed his mother -- 56-year-old Lisa Bragg-Hurlburt -- with a kitchen knife at Half Moon Lake Apartments near Carson Park on the night of May 22nd. The victim was found dead at the scene. Hurlburt is charged with first degree intentional homicide and yesterday waived his right to a preliminary hearing.

Andrew and Alexander Heckendorf of Menomonie, Wisconsin have been selected as the University of Wisconsin, Dunn County 4-H’s Key Award winners for 2026. Andrew and Alexander have been active members of the Little Elk Creek 4-H Club for seven years This prestigious award is one of the highest recognition’s that a 4-H member can receive. Earning the 4-H Key Award is an honor of distinction that only a select few 4-H participants may obtain. Andrew and Alexander will be recognized at the Dunn County 4-H Distinguished Member Awards Ceremony Sunday, July 26, at 12:15 p.m. at the Dunn County Fair.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is looking into the first cases of West Nile Virus this year. Officials announced the confirmed cases of mosquitoes in Milwaukee County and a wild bird found in Bayfield County. However, no cases involving people have been found in the Badger State as of yet. Health officials warned the virus is passed through infected mosquitoes, but can also spread from infected persons to others.

Federal disaster unemployment aid is now available in parts of Wisconsin. The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development says assistance is available for eligible workers in 19 counties and the Oneida Nation impacted by severe weather between April 13th and April 23rd. The program provides temporary income support for people who lost work and who don't qualify for regular unemployment benefits. Eligible applicants include self-employed workers and those unable to return to work because of storm damage. Anyone seeking assistance must first apply for regular unemployment benefits. The deadline to apply for disaster assistance is August 31st.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has issued a statewide air quality advisory for fine particle pollution. Conditions are expected to range from Unhealthy for Sensitive Groups to Very Unhealthy, lasting through Thursday at noon. The DNR said smoke from wildfires in Minnesota and Ontario is expected to enter northern Wisconsin between 8 p.m. and midnight Tuesday, then push south. Statewide impacts could be possible by 6 a.m. Thursday, with the heaviest smoke expected in northwest Wisconsin. Health officials are urging people to limit time outdoors as air quality worsens.

The federal government is reportedly turning over evidence to Minnesota investigators linked to the killings of Renee Good and Alex Pretti. The Minnesota Star Tribune says the Department of Justice is submitting the information of the shooting deaths during Operation Metro Surge after months of refusing to do so. The evidence includes the SUV Good was driving when she was shot and killed by ICE agent Jonathan Ross. The vehicle was transferred to the Minnesota Bureau of Criminal Apprehension over a week ago. The newspaper reports that additional digital and physical from the killings was turned over in the last several days. The Trump administration's previous unwillingness to share evidence led Minnesota officials to file a lawsuit earlier this year.

The Port Washington data center project is the subject of a lawsuit. The Wisconsin Examiner reports the suit was filed Friday in Ozaukee County Court by Midwest Environmental Advocates on behalf of the Sierra Club. It alleges the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources skipped a required environmental review process at the request of Vantage, the company building the $15 billion hyperscale data center in Port Washington. The lawsuit alleges that the agency backed off from requiring an environmental impact statement after Vantage claimed it would “kill the project.” The lawsuit argues the DNR ignored potential environmental impacts and that failing to conduct the full review before granting permits violates Wisconsin’s Environmental Policy Act. The DNR conducted a more limited environmental analysis summary.

Work has officially started on Wisconsin's first Buc-ee's. It's not much, but over the weekend fences went up, and a driveway was laid down at the work site in Oak Creek. Crews are starting groundwork ahead of the main buildout which set to start in August with construction expected to be completed in 2028. The 73,370-square-foot travel plaza will feature 120 gas pumps as well as EV chargers. A proposed Buc-ee’s in the Madison suburb of DeForest has stalled over funding and zoning. Texas-based Buc-ee’s has 56 locations, mostly in the US South and West.

The Wood County Sheriff's Department will be featured in two upcoming episodes of the A&E docuseries "Behind Bars: Officer Cam." The episodes will feature footage from corrections officers' body cameras. A third program focusing on correction officers' interactions with inmates has also been filmed, but a release date has not been given. The Wood County Jail is the first sheriff's department in the state to be on the show. The two episodes will air back-to-back beginning at 7 p.m. on July 23^rd

Local-Regional News July 14

 

The investigation continues into a deadly weekend boat crash. The Saturday accident on Lake Pepin involved a collision between a pontoon boat and a commercial barge. Three people were found alive in the water soon after the accident and three were found dead on Sunday. Of the dead, two have been identified as Wabasha firefighters. The City of Wabasha released a statement saying the community lost three exceptional community members in a tragic boating accident. They were colleagues, friends and neighbors.

One person was injured in a single motorcycle accident in Spring Lake Township on Saturday. According to the Pierce County Sheriff’s Department, 18yr old Logan Albers of Spring Valley was traveling eastbound on 710^th Avenue when he lost control on a curve and entered the ditch. Albers was med-flighted to St. Mary’s Hospital in Rochester.

The Mondovi City Council is meeting tonight. Items on the agenda include discussion and possible action on a proposal from JT Engineering for the Hwy 10 Sanitary Sewer and Watermain project, along with reports from the Mayor and Department Heads. Tonights meeting begins at 5:30 at the Marten Center in Mondovi.

Prison is being ordered for a man convicted in connection with a deadly 2024 vehicle accident in St. Croix County. Mitchell Majetich was reportedly driving under the influence when he hit another vehicle and a passenger from his own car was killed. Majetich pleaded no contest to charges of first-degree reckless homicide and guilty to a charge of operating under the influence. He has been sentenced to eight years in prison.

Charges are being filed against a suspect apprehended after a shots-fired incident in Eau Claire. Police responded Sunday evening to an area near West Madison Street and Oxford Avenue. Witnesses say that 29-year-old Raymond Ramirez had been drinking under a bridge when he pointed a gun at another man's dog and the two began to argue. Ramirez fired and hit the side of a Dollar General store. He was arrested on charges including Endangering Safety - Going Armed While Intoxicated as officers continue to try to identify the other person involved.

The volatile situation in Iran continues to play a role in the price at the pump. Triple-A reports the average price of regular fuel in Western Wisconsin this week is now three-62 per gallon -- eight-cents higher than the price one week ago. In La Crosse, the average cost of a gallon of regular fuel is three-66 per gallon -- unchanged from seven days ago. The average cost of a gallon of regular fuel in the State of Wisconsin is now three-67 per gallon.

Hot weather continues across the region this week, with temperatures expected to stay in the mid to upper 90s. Health officials are urging people to watch for signs of heat exhaustion, including heavy sweating, headaches, dizziness and fatigue. Minnesota Department of Health Doctor Nick Lehnertz says those symptoms can quickly progress to heat stroke, causing confusion, nausea and even aggressive behavior. Older adults, young children and people with chronic health conditions are especially vulnerable. Stay hydrated, take breaks in air conditioning, and check on your neighbors.

A new report shows Wisconsin prisons are holding more drunk drivers than ever before. The Wisconsin Policy Forum reports the number of people incarcerated for operating while intoxicated has more than quadrupled since 2000. Nearly 2,900 people were in state prisons for OWI convictions in 2024, a record high, before dipping slightly last year. The report says the increase comes despite a sharp decline in OWI arrests. Wisconsin recorded more than 36,000 OWI arrests in 2002, compared to fewer than 19,000 in 2025. Overall arrests by law enforcement statewide have dropped more than 60% over the last two decades.

The Wisconsin Supreme Court strikes down a law restricting how the state's Attorney General may use money from legal settlements. Justices on Friday ruled 5 - 2 to invalidate the law, with conservative Brian Hagedorn joining the court's liberal justices. Passed by Republicans in the 2018 lame duck legislative session between Governor Scott Walker and Governor Tony Evers, the law requires the Wisconsin Department of Justice deposit all settlements into the state's general fund and prohibits spending those funds on specific programs. It was part of a set of actions stripping the executive branch of spending authority. Several other lame duck session laws have also been struck down by the court.

A Democratic candidate for Governor fires her campaign manager. Lt. Governor Sara Rodriguez on Sunday announced the firing of her manager over what she described as inaccurate campaign finance filings. The firing comes just days before those filings are required to be submitted to the Wisconsin Elections Commission for review. Rodriguez will be meeting with W E C on Monday to discuss this firing and the inaccurate reports. She’s one of five Democrats vying in the August primary to face Republican congressman Tom Tiffany in November.

The IRS is giving residents and businesses in Wisconsin counties affected by April tornadoes and flooding additional time to file federal taxes. Residents now have until November 2nd to file most federal returns and make payments that would have been due after April 13th. The extended deadline also applies to estimated tax payments, many business returns and disaster-related casualty claims. The hardest-hit areas include Outagamie, Brown, Winnebago and more than a dozen other counties.

An elderly woman died in Lake Michigan over the weekend. Sheboygan County deputies were called to the Lakeshore in the town of Wilson on Saturday for a report of a woman unconscious in the water. The 80-year-old was recovered by first responders but could not be revived. Witnesses told officers they saw the woman walk into the lake before she was found. The victim has not been identified, and the cause of death is still being determined.

The Minnesota DFL race for U.S. Senate remains close. The candidates are Lieutenant Governor Peggy Flanagan and Congresswoman Angie Craig. The polls show that the race very tight, with some polls showing Craig ahead and some showing Flanagan ahead. New campaign finance figures are expected to be released later this week. The primary election is set for August 11.

A unique river rescue in Northwest Wisconsin. Five horses got loose from their paddock at the Spooner Rodeo on Friday and wandered off into the river in Spooner, where they got stuck in the mud. The horses were rescued with help from Spooner police, fire and utility crews, rodeo cowboys, local residents and a local towing company. The horses appeared to be in good health.

Local-Regional News July 13

 

Three boaters missing after a commercial barge reportedly collided with a pontoon boat Saturday night on Lake Pepin have been found dead. According to the Wabasha and Pepin County Sheriff’s Department, the first call came in at around 10:45 Saturday night of people screaming for help in the waters of Lake Pepin. First reponders found an overturned pontoon boat near the YMCA Camp on Deer Island with three survivors clinging to the boat. After an extensive search that lasted into Sunday afternoon, the bodies of the other three victims were reported as recovered and taken to the Ramsey County Medical Examiners Office. The names of the victims have not been released. The Wisconsin DNR will be leading the investigation in to the accident. No campers or camp staff were involved in the accident.

A dangerous weeklong heatwave is coming to Western Wisconsin. Extreme heat warnings are in effect for most of the WRDN listening area and northern Wisconsin. Highs are expected to reach the mid-90s, with heat index values near or above 100-degrees on Monday and Tuesday. Warm overnight temperatures could increase the risk of heat related illnesses. Forecasters say the hot and dry weather may not ease until the end of the week.

Applications are being accepted from those interested in becoming the next Buffalo County sheriff. The position became available with the recent resignation of now-former Sheriff Michael Osmond. Governor Evers is accepting applications through 5 p.m. next Monday

A suspect is in custody after a shots-fired incident last night in Eau Claire. Police say a number of shots were fired near businesses in the area of West Madison Street and Oxford Avenue. No injuries were reported.

The FAA and the NTSB are investigating after a small plane crashed in Winona County. The collision happened Thursday near the corner of Winona County Road 33 and Winona County Road 6. Authorities say the 62-year-old pilot experienced engine trouble and was forced into making an emergency landing. He was able to get out of the plane, and he was taken to a local hospital.

Three people are dead after what authorities are calling a double murder suicide. According to the Rusk County Sheriff’s Department, deputies were called to a home in the Township of Hawkins on Thursday for a welfare check. When deputies arrived they found three people dead from gunshot wounds. Based on the preliminary investigation, authorities believe the incident to be a double murder suicide. The names of the victims have not been released pending notification from the family.

Summer sunshine means extra attention to skin safety. University of Minnesota Medical School dermatologist Dr. David Pearson says UV levels rise significantly during the summer, increasing the risk of sun damage. He recommends applying sunscreen every morning, even on days when you don't expect much time outdoors, and reapplying throughout the day when needed. Pearson also suggests wearing UPF-rated sun-protective clothing for added protection. If you do get a sunburn, cold showers, over-the-counter creams and staying hydrated can help ease symptoms.

Wisconsin's US Senators react to the death of Lindsey Graham. His office said in a statement posted on social media that the Republican US Senator from South Carolina died Saturday evening after a “brief and sudden illness,” at age 71. A post from Wisconsin Republican Senator Ron Johnson said “I am shocked and deeply saddened on the sudden passing of my friend and colleague, Lindsey Graham. He was a true American patriot who blended a wonderful sense of humor with a serious and dedicated sense of duty to our country. He will be sorely missed. My thoughts and prayers are with his family and friends.” Wisconsin Democrat Senator Tammy Baldwin posted “Senator Lindsey Graham devoted decades to public service, including his service in the Air Force and in Congress. I’m keeping his family, his staff, and the people of South Carolina in my thoughts and sending my deepest condolences.”

Wisconsin is joining a multi state lawsuit to block school mental health funding cuts from the Trump administration. The Wisconsin Department of Justice said terminating the grants is projected to cost the University of Wisconsin and Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction approximately 12.5 million dollars. The states are seeking a preliminary injunction to prevent the grants from being terminated.

The Wisconsin State Patrol is set to conduct aerial enforcement across a handful of counties this week. Patrol's will be seen on US 51 in Oneida County on today, I-94 in Jackson County on Tuesday, and WIS 29 in Chippewa County on Thursday. The enforcement process works through coordination between air and ground units.

The Wisconsin Elections Commission reminds voters not to bet on elections. With the August primary a month away, commissioners issued a warning to anyone who wants to place bets with online gambling services like Polymarket and Kalshi. Under Wisconsin law, betting on the outcome of an election makes you ineligible to vote in that election. Commissioner Ann Jacobs says people should be voting for the best person for the job, not to win some money.

Governor Tony Evers is urging Wisconsin's Congressional delegation to reject President Trump's call to pass the SAVE Act. Evers suggests the act would "undermine Wisconsin's safe, secure elections, disenfranchise voters by creating unnecessary hurdles for eligible Wisconsinites to cast their ballot." He also says this wold bury state and local election officials under "massive, unfunded administrative burdens." There's no word on when Congress will deny or approve the SAVE Act.

Minnesota is receiving more than 400 thousand dollars from a CVS Medicaid overbilling settlement. The payment is part of a 36-and-a-half-million-dollar agreement involving 37 states and the federal government. The settlement resolves allegations that CVS billed Medicaid and other government programs for more insulin than patients were prescribed. CVS says insulin pen billing is complicated and it settled to avoid the cost of litigation. Attorney General Keith Ellison claims CVS knowingly overbilled taxpayers.

The Minnesota State Fair is unveiling several new foods for 2026. The complete list includes three dozen items available for the first time along with nine new vendors. Some food featured are a Pickle Pie, Butter Brew Mustache Pretzel, Dubai Whoopie Pie, Hmong Corndog and more. The Minnesota State Fair runs from August 27th to September 7th. Tickets are 20 dollars for those 13 to 64. Admission is free for children four years of age and under.

Local-Regional News July 10

 

A Florida woman is being charged after a fatal collision near Black River Falls. Teresa Lowman was reportedly behind the wheel of a semi that clipped another semi on I-94 back in February. Russell Back from Mondovi was driving the other semi and went into a ditch, hit several trees and caught fire leading to his death. Lowman is charged with hit and run involving death and will be in court on August 24.

A busy day Wednesday for the Lake City Fire Department. Crews were called to the scene of a two vehicle accident near the intersection of County Roads 2 and 23. While on the scene, a shed fire two miles away was called in. Firefighters cleared the traffic accident and responded to the fire and when they arrived, they found the shed with 60 hay bales inside fully engulfed. Firefighters spent the next five hours on the scene. No one was injured in either the accident or fire, and the cause of the fire remains under investigation.

Pepin County will be hosting a Crisis Intervention Partners training session in August. The training brings together first responders, healthcare professionals, educators, faith leaders and other community partners to strengthen response to individuals experiencing mental health crises. The training will be from August 12-13 from 8:34-4:30 at the Durand Fire Hall. Call Pepin County Human Services for more information.

Trump administration official Mehmet Oz was in Western Wisconsin on Thursday. Dr. Oz, the Administrator for the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, accompanied Representative Derrick Van Orden on visits to the Marshfield Medical Center and the Chippewa Valley Technical College's Health Education Center. Oz says the administration will make sure the Badger State is taken care of and that the funding that's required to improve rural healthcare is at the appropriate level.

Aspirus Health is announcing the opening date for its new hospital in Chippewa Falls. The facility in Chippewa Falls will open on September 22nd across the street from Fire Station number one on Chippewa Crossing Boulevard. The hospital will feature an emergency department along with 10 treatment rooms and 10 inpatient beds.

Charges are being filed in connection with a deadly vehicle crash in Jackson County. The accident happened back in May on I-94 near Warrens. According to reports, 21-year-old Lacey Georgeson rear-ended an SUV causing both vehicles to roll and leading to the death of the SUV's driver. Georgeson faces charges including reckless homicide and homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle.

Gas prices are on the rise in Western Wisconsin. Gas rose from $3.47 a gallon to $3.69 in many areas in Western Wisconsin yesterday. Triple A says today's statewide average is three-dollars, 60-cents a gallon, while national prices are also up about nickel-a-gallon as the future of a ceasefire between the U-S and Iran remains uncertain.

Wisconsin State Patrol Troopers are climbing into semi-trucks next week to help spot risky drivers. The State Patrol is partnering with the Wisconsin Motor Carriers Association for this year's Trooper in a Truck campaign. All next week, troopers will ride along in commercial trucks, giving them a higher vantage point to spot dangerous driving behaviors including not wearing seat belts, texting behind the wheel or otherwise driving distracted. It's the sixth year of the effort which combines enforcement and education to promote safer roads statewide.

An appeals court won't hear a challenge from the father of Madison’s Abundant Life school shooter. A three-judge appeals panel has denied a request from Jeffrey Rupnow to review a Dane County judge's decision not to dismiss criminal charges against him. Prosecutors accuse Rupnow of allowing his 15-year-old daughter to access firearms despite knowing about her mental health issues. The teen killed two people and wounded six others in the December 2024 shooting at Abundant Life Christian School in Madison before taking her own life. Rupnow's attorneys argue the charges are flawed and unconstitutional, but the appeals court says the case does not meet the legal standards for an early appeal. Rupnow is scheduled to stand trial in March of 2027.

Curbside composting is being considered in Eau Claire. The proposed ordinance would require city licensed trash haulers include compost pickup. Alderman Andrew Worthman says giving more residents access to composting services would reduce waste in landfills and make expensive expansion projects less frequent. Worthman says about 25% of what ends up being landfilled is organic material that could be composted. One hauler in Eau Claire already offers the service, but the Wisconsin chapter of the National Waste and Recycling Association lobbyist group sent a letter to the city council objecting to the proposed ordinance. Worthman hopes to have a final draft on the city council agenda by month’s end.

Milwaukee County's executive is ending his run for governor. David Crowley announced yesterday he is withdrawing his campaign for Wisconsin's top post, saying "it has become clear" that he won't be the Democratic nominee. Instead, the Journal Sentinel reports he's throwing his support behind Lieutenant Governor Sara Rodriguez, with the primary scheduled for August 11th. Crowley had a strong start to his campaign with high fundraising numbers, but he struggled to keep up with the race's frontrunners. He's the second Democratic candidate to drop out behind Missy Hughes.

Downtown Green Bay’s unappealing coal piles are a step closer to being moved. Governor Tony Evers was on hand this week as Brown County signed an agreement to relocate the coal to the mouth of the Fox River, granting C. Reiss Terminals a 60-year lease at the former Pulliam Power Plant site. The governor on Tuesday cautioned that "it's going to take time" to relocate the massive piles, but once that happens "downtown Green Bay will look a little bit better." The agreement will have C. Reiss move salt piles to the Pulliam site, making room for coal to be stored at its Fox River Terminals once construction of the new Pulliam site port is done in a year or two.

Minnesota lawmakers are considering lifting the state's 32-year-old ban on new nuclear power plants. Legislators have approved 500-thousand dollars for a study on whether new nuclear plants could be built in Minnesota. The Great Plains Institute will review costs, environmental impacts, radioactive waste and the potential use of small modular reactors. Supporters say nuclear power could help Minnesota reach its carbon-free electricity goal by 2040, while opponents say new nuclear plants are too expensive, take years to build and leave unresolved questions about radioactive waste.

Keep these boating safety tips in mind when on the water. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources says never operate a boat after using drugs or alcohol and make sure there's a Coast Guard-approved life jacket for every person onboard. Check navigation lights before leaving the dock and keep extra batteries handy. Boaters should also monitor weather conditions closely and carry a radio, as sudden wind, lightning, and rough water can signal an approaching storm. And before you leave, let someone know where you're going and when you expect to return. Three children died and several were injured last week when a boat capsized on Lake Geneva during heavy storms.

The Wisconsin State Fair is being rated as one of the best in the U.S. A ranking compiled by travel site Only In Your State listed the best 25 state fairs in the country, placing the West Allis event at number three overall. It is hailed for its "dairy programming" that shows off "the state's identity without being corny about it." The fair also features hundreds of food vendors, pig racing, and other attractions. Only the state fairs of Minnesota and Iowa were rated higher. The Wisconsin State Fair is scheduled to begin August 6th.

Local-Regional News July 9

 

The City of Durand has approved moving forward with a band shell improvement and refurbishment project. The project would improve safety and usability of the restrooms at the band shell, expand functional storage and operational space for the band shell, and restore the historic character to the band shell. The total cost of the project would be just over $222,600. The city will now work on fundraising to cover the cost of the project.

The Pierce County Sheriff's Office is continuing to investigate a Monday injury collision. Two trucks collided on State Road 72 shortly before noon. According to the Pierce County Sheriffs Department, 61yr old Christopher Reed of Chippewa Falls was traveling eastbound on Hwy 72 when he collided with a semi traveling southbound on Hwy DD driven by 52yr old Steven Hove of Hagar City. Hove was hurt in the accident and was taken to Mayo Hospital in Red Wing.

One person is dead after a car hit a pedestrian in Altoona. Officials responded to the incident at the intersection of Sawgrass Place and Saint Andrews Drive early Wednesday morning. Police and EMS performed lifesaving measures, but were not successful. An investigation suggests the pedestrian was crossing the road when they were struck by the vehicle. The driver fully cooperated with the investigation and was issued multiple citations.

Compeer Financial is awarding grant funding to support more than 145 rural emergency departments including some in Western Wisconsin. Among those receiving grants are Dunn County Emergency Medical Responders, Osceola Fire & Rescue, the Osseo Rural Fire Department and the Viroqua Fire Department. Compeer has been awarding Emergency Response Grants since 2018.

A new court date is being set for a lawsuit filed by former UW-La Crosse Chancellor Joe Gow against the university. Gow claims his 2024 termination was a violation of his First Amendment rights. Gow was fired after it came to light that he and his wife had been creating porn videos and posting them online. He says that posting the videos was a form of free speech and self-expression. The trial date had been set for June of this year, but has been pushed back to September of 2027.

The La Crosse Police Department is implementing drone-deployed Personal Flotation Devices. LCPD says this technology will allow officers to provide a direct, live-saving flotation to people in distress. The device can be carried by police, thrown from shore, or deployed directly from a department drone to a person in need and automatically inflates once it hits the water. Chief Shawn Kudron says the new device "provides valuable time until the department's Boat Patrol and other emergency responders arrive."

Authorities say the pilot who crashed landed his single-engine plane last month had just changed a wing before the deadly collision at the Winona airport. The National Transportation Safety Board says Wayne Ledebuhr installed the new wing because it had a lower height clearance and made it easier to store in the hangar. The pilot died at the scene of the crash on June 25th. NTSB officials say Ledebuhr tested the wing and made two quick takeoffs and landings before going on a third flight. The pilot's family noted in his obituary that he was the acting president of the Winona EAA Chapter 919 flying club and was also an avid sailor, snow skier and water skier.

Wisconsin Farmers will have more options to repair their equipment after a settlement between the Federal Trade Commission, five states including Wisconsin and John Deere.   The National Farmers Union President Rob Larew said in a statement that NFU is happy to see the settlement provide farmers with what they should have had all along, the right to repair their own equipment.

Former Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan is receiving a fine for her role in obstructing an ICE arrest. Prosecutors accused Dugan of helping the target of an arrest temporarily avoid being taken into custody by directing federal agents away from her courtroom and through a private jury door. Dugan was convicted in the courthouse arrest case, and her defense attorneys asked the court for time served while prosecutors argued the circumstances involved an abuse of trust and broader institutional harm. Despite federal sentencing guidelines calling for incarceration, the judge opted to impose a five-thousand-dollar fine.

Federal regulators cite 11 Wisconsin hospitals for price transparency. Hospitals are being called on to improve compliance with health care price transparency requirements. Since March, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services has issued warning letters or requested corrective action plans from hospitals that regulators say are not fully disclosing pricing information. Federal rules that took effect in 2021 require hospitals to publicly post negotiated insurance rates and other costs for medical services. CMS data shows nearly 50 Wisconsin hospitals have faced similar enforcement actions since the requirements began.

Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul challenges a proposed new round of tariffs. Kaul and attorneys general from 21 other states urge the U.S. Trade Representative to abandon plans for new tariffs on the European Union and dozens of other countries. In a comment letter, the coalition argues the tariffs are illegal and would raise costs for American consumers and businesses. The proposed duties follow earlier tariff actions that have faced legal challenges in federal courts. Kaul says the tariffs would further strain Wisconsin household budgets and hurt the state’s economy.

Disability Rights Wisconsin is pleased by Tuesday’s state Supreme Court ruling that keeps documents filed when a person is found incompetent to vote, confidential. Lisa Hassenstab is the group’s Public Policy Manager. She said state statute clearly states that guardianship records are confidential and important to people's ability to maintain their privacy and independence. The organization is pleased to see that the majority of justices thought the same way. The 5-2 bipartisan decision means documents indicating an individual is not eligible to vote due to health or a disability are protected under state law. The Wisconsin Voter Alliance had sued Walworth County in 2022 for copies of guardianship records filed with the Wisconsin Elections Commission, to support claims that ineligible voters cast ballots in the 2020 presidential election. Sam Liebert with ACLU Wisconsin said the decision is about election integrity as well as the right to privacy, calling those complementary goals, not competing ones.

Downtown Green Bay’s unappealing coal piles are a step closer to being moved. Governor Tony Evers was on hand this week as Brown County signed an agreement to relocate the coal to the mouth of the Fox River, granting C. Reiss Terminals a 60-year lease at the former Pulliam Power Plant site. The governor on Tuesday cautioned that "it's going to take time" to relocate the massive piles, but once that happens "downtown Green Bay will look a little bit better." The agreement will have C. Reiss move salt piles to the Pulliam site, making room for coal to be stored at its Fox River Terminals once construction of the new Pulliam site port is done in a year or two.

An historic crossing of Wisconsin’s largest inland lake. WBAY reports that Melodee Liegl is the first person ever to swim the full length of Lake Winnebago, completing the 27.8-mile journey in just under 17 hours. The 59-year-old Delafield native entered the water near the Fond du Lac lighthouse at the southern tip of the lake at 4 a.m. Tuesday and reached shore at Waverly Beach in Menasha around 9 p.m. Liegl is a former U.S. Masters Swimming All-American who has taken on long-distance swims across Wisconsin. She maintained a pace of approximately two miles per hour throughout the day, with brief stops for food and hydration, and said the Winnebago swim was on her bucket list.

Local-Regional News July 8

 

The Durand City Council is meeting tonight. Items on the agenda include discussion and possible action on a petition to annex a 2.5 acre parcel into the city near South Street and Marilyn and a proposal to detach 2.3 acres near Grant Street and Marilyn Ave to the Town of Durand. The councils will also go into closed session to discuss police department employee staffing. Tonights meeting begins at 6pm at Durand City Hall.

The Durand-Arkansaw School District is working with the city of Durand to hire a new school resource officer. Durand-Arkansaw Superintendent Ryan Nelson says he and Chief Ridgeway have been working together on the search process.  Chief Ridgeway will give an update on the search and possible hiring of a new SRO at tonight's City Council Meeting.

Yesterday's 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. He was ruled competent for trial in 2024. Tuesday's hearing was delayed with Helmbrecht's lawyer continuing an appeal regarding the competency issue.

Lake Altoona Beach in Eau Claire County remains closed due to concerns about the water. Health officials provided an update yesterday saying they are continuing to monitor that situation. They are also expressing concern about Half Moon Beach saying that water activities are not recommended there due to elevated bacteria levels. They say the water could cause sickness and skin rashes.

La Crosse Police are investigating after the discovery of a body Tuesday morning. The victim was found shortly before 7:30 a.m. at a location on Division Street. There has been no word on the cause of death.

The Northern Wisconsin State Fair begins today in Chippewa Falls. Livestock, agriculture and craft exhibitions will take place during the run of the event along with live music, carnival rides and lots of food options. Main stage entertainment this week will include performances by Sugar Ray and 38 Special. Country music band Sawyer Brown performs tonight. The fair runs through Sunday.

The City of Wabasha will hold a public hearing on Monday to discuss the adoption of an ordinance authorizing the issuance of bonds of the Wabasha Port Authority and Development not to exceed $2.7 5 million. The proceeds of the bonds are to be used to finance the improvements to a port facility within Industrial Development District 1. That meeting will be held at 9am Monday at the Wabasha City Hall.

The Olmsted County Attorney’s Office announced Tuesday it will not pursue criminal charges in connection with a deadly officer-involved shooting that claimed the life of a Rochester man earlier this year. Cleavon White, 47, of Rochester, was shot and killed by Rochester Police Officer Josiah Duit on March 11. According to authorities, White refused to comply with officers and the Crisis Response Team, leading to a physical struggle during which White fired an officer’s firearm. Officer Duit subsequently shot White five times. Olmsted County Attorney Michael Walters said in a written statement that after reviewing the evidence, he determined the use of deadly force was “necessary and justified.

UW-Madison's new athletic director is calling his new job "a dream." Shawn Eichorst spoke to reporters yesterday after being introduced as the leader of Badger athletics. He referred to UW-Madison sports as the "pinnacle" of what's taking place in college athletics and believes the school has had a positive impact on young people. Eichorst was previously the deputy AD at Texas, and the athletic director for Miami and Nebraska. He talked about several topics, including NIL, making the Badgers more accessible and building relationships in his first year.

One person is injured following an accident in Monroe County. An investigation shows a car had stopped at the stop sign on the off-ramp Sunday afternoon when it pulled out in front of a semi, causing the semi driver attempt to avoid a collision. The car continued forward and struck the side of the semi-trailer, which drove partially over the car and pushed it into the north ditch. The female driver from the car was injured and was removed from the vehicle by the driver of the semi. The crash remains under investigation.

New records shed more light on the firing of UW System President Jay Rothman. The Wisconsin State Journal reports that newly released emails and text messages show University of Wisconsin Regents spent months privately discussing concerns about Rothman before firing him in April. Records obtained by the Journal reveal board members raised issues with Rothman's leadership, including disputes over artificial intelligence guidance and management style. Rothman, who said he was never given an adequate reason for his dismissal, led the UW system for four years. A search for his successor is now underway and is expected to wrap up later this fall.

A Milwaukee elementary school will be demolished following a fire. The cause of the massive June 30 five-alarm fire which tore through the K-5 Lincoln Avenue School on Milwaukee’s south side remains unknown. No one was injured although firefighters were hampered by items stored in hallways. The Milwaukee Historic Preservation Commission has voted to approve the demolition of the building. The Lincoln Avenue summer community learning center has been relocated to another MPS school. Donations through the MPS Foundation's Lincoln Avenue Elementary School Fund will go toward replacing classroom supplies, supporting teachers, and meeting other critical needs.

The WIAA is looking to implement a 35-second shot clock for every High School basketball game by the 2028-2029 season. This comes after the NFHS adapted their rules to allow schools to use these clocks if there's a mutual agreement between the two teams playing. Many coaches and fans believe the shot clock will create a faster-paced and "more exciting" game, while others think that the cost of purchasing and maintaining the shot clock equipment is not worth it. It will now go to a full WIAA membership vote at the 2027 annual meeting in April for a chance of final approval.

A Hugo woman who pleaded guilty to making threats of harm to Minnesota House Speaker Lisa Demuth will avoid prison. Rachel Welsch reached plea deal that calls for five years' probation and serve three months in jail or community service. The defendant confessed today to a felony count of threats of violence. Welsch also was ordered to undergo mental health evaluations and is banned from contacting Demuth, who is a Republican candidate for governor. Prosecutors said the defendant targeted Demuth and another legislator by calls made to the speaker. Sentencing is set for September 10th.

Wisconsin's history is part of the America 250 Time Capsule. An eagle feather and a photo of Old Abe, the bald eagle that served with a Wisconsin Civil War regiment, are among the items Wisconsin contributed to the capsule which was buried in Philadelphia July 4th and will be opened 250 years from now in 2276. Wisconsin's collection also includes a Harley-Davidson challenge coin, tribal and veterans' pins, letters from Governor Tony Evers and other state leaders, and artifacts representing Native nations, culture and military service across the state.