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Blogs » Latest News » 2007 » December

Sun Prairie attorney drops Supreme Court bid

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 1:59 p.m. December 31, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Sun Prairie attorney Charlie Schutze is dropping his long-shot bid for the state Supreme Court. Schutze notified his supporters in a letter dated Dec. 27 that ...
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$2 million lottery ticket sold in Iowa County

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 1:50 p.m. December 31, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Someone who bought a lottery ticket in southwestern Wisconsin will probably have quite the happy new year. A Megabucks lottery ticket sold in Iowa County is ...
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Several injuries in Interstate rollover

Posted by STACY VOGEL at 8:03 p.m. December 30, 2007

The Wisconsin State Patrol, Beloit Fire Department and Town of Turtle Fire Department responded to a vehicle rollover on Interstate 90/39 near the stateline at 6:10 p.m., a Rock County ...
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Team to focus on homeless students

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 6:06 p.m. December 30, 2007

A new action team is formulating ideas to help the parents of Janesville's homeless students become more involved in their children's schools. Volunteer Coordinator Lisa Hinds says one of the ...
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Hawkins declines interim chief job

Posted by STACY VOGEL at 12:57 p.m. December 28, 2007

Terry Hawkins, former Milton police chief, has declined the city's offer to serve as interim chief after Chief Tom Gilland retires Jan. 7. The city announced Hawkins' decision in a ...
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Snowmobile trails reopened

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 11:52 a.m. December 28, 2007

From the Rock County Parks Deparment: The Rock County snowmobile trail is now open throughout the entire county. The Rock County Alliance of Snowmobile Clubs suggests that snowmobilers curtail their ...
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Heavy traffic expected for Hendricks' funeral

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 10:45 a.m. December 28, 2007

Janesville police are preparing for Ken Hendricks' funeral procession Friday afternoon. Lieutenant Tom Wolfram says intersections from First Lutheran Church on East Milwaukee Street and Randall to Oakhill Cemetery will ...
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Shooting victim remains in serious condition

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 9:09 a.m. December 28, 2007

ROCKFORD—A Clinton woman remains in serious condition at St. Anthony Hospital, Rockford, after being shot Dec. 18. Marilyn Smith, 58, was shot by her son-in-law, Timothy Harrington, at 6:50 p.m. ...
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Follow latest weather developments

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 8:19 a.m. December 28, 2007

Click here to get the latest waether-related closings and delays Click here to view the latest road conditions Click here to view radar images
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Janesville declares snow emergency

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 8:17 a.m. December 28, 2007

From the City of Janesville: The City of Janesville has declared a snow emergency for December 28 starting at 3:00 pm. A snow emergency means that all vehicles must be ...
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Salvation Army nears Christmas goal but still needs $9,000

Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO at 7:15 a.m. December 28, 2007

The Salvation Army still needs $9,000 to reach its 2007 Christmas fund-raising goal. The money will be used to fund the local religious and charitable organization’s programs: the social service ...
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Slight drop in unemployment

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 5:27 a.m. December 28, 2007

Rock County has a 5.5 percent unemployment rate for November according to statistics released by the Department of Workforce Development. That is slightly lower than the last rate, but almost ...
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Teen pleads innocent in OWI homicide case

Posted by MIKE HEINE at 3 p.m. December 27, 2007

Krystal Hart, a Genoa City teenager, pleaded innocent today to a charge of homicide by intoxicated driving. The 16-year-old is suspected of having a blood-alcohol-level of 0.12 percent on the ...
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Janesville man waives hearing in child death case

Posted by ANN MARIE AMES at 1:49 p.m. December 27, 2007

JANESVILLE—A Janesville man facing charges of causing death by child neglect and obstructing an officer waived his right Thursday to a preliminary hearing in Rock County Court. Charles R. Rivers, ...
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Man dies in Sharon car crash

Posted by MIKE HEINE at 11:56 a.m. December 27, 2007

A Sharon man died this morning in a two-vehicle crash on State Line Road east of the village. Edward L. York, 58, was pronounced dead at Mercy Walworth Hospital and ...
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Police warn of delays during funeral procession

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 10:07 a.m. December 27, 2007

JANESVILLE—Police are cautioning motorists to expect traffic delays Friday as the funeral procession for Ken Hendricks makes its way from First Lutheran Church to Oak Hill Cemetery. The funeral for ...
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Council might decide if primary needed

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 8:45 a.m. December 27, 2007

JANESVILLE—The city council might meet Monday, Jan. 7, to determine whether to hold a primary election for city council, council President George Brunner announced Wednesday night. Three council seats are ...
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City denies claim

Posted by ANN FIORE at 8:14 a.m. December 27, 2007

JANESVILLE An Edgerton woman whose vehicle was struck by a Janesville police squad car in August plans to sue the city for medical expenses and pain and suffering. The city ...
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Snow advisory in effect

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 5:45 a.m. December 27, 2007

A snow advisory in effect from 6 am to 6 pm Friday for Rock, Green, Jefferson, and Walworth counties. The winter storm watch is no longer in effect. Snow will ...
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Snow removal costs top estimates for Janesville

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 5:37 a.m. December 27, 2007

Snow removal has been expensive this year for the city of Janesville. Assistant City Manager Herb Stinsky says the 2007 budget will be close to $700,000 short. When the 2008 ...
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State DOJ disciplines agents, analysts

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 2:56 p.m. December 26, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The state Department of Justice reprimanded, suspended or fired nearly 30 workers between 2002 and 2006, including a number of crime lab analysts. An Associated Press ...
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Packers need help shoveling

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 12:54 p.m. December 26, 2007

GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) - The Green Bay Packers are calling all shovelers. The team needs help again shoveling out Lambeau Field for Sunday's game against the Detroit Lions. As ...
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State ends deal with voter registration vendor

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 10:38 a.m. December 26, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - State elections officials have canceled their deal with a software vendor that was supposed to develop a new statewide voter registration system. The state has pumped ...
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Janesville refines billboards requirements

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 9:48 a.m. December 26, 2007

Janesville's city planners are refining the requirements for new electronic billboards. For every new electronic billboard a company would need to remove one of its non-conforming static billboards, says Gale ...
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Beloit fire claims a life

Posted by STEVE BENTON at 8:53 a.m. December 26, 2007

One person is dead in a house on Beloit's east side. Firefighters responded to 1254 Wisconsin Avenue around 5 A.M. Wednesday morning and found the house fully involved. The house ...
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Winter storm watch issued

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 6:50 a.m. December 26, 2007

From the National Weather Service: A Winter storm watch is in effect from Friday morning through Friday afternoon. Snow is expected to develop across the area later Thursday night and ...
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Power outage affects parts of downtown

Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO at 5:43 a.m. December 26, 2007

A power outage has affected portions of downtown Janesville. About 30 customers are affected, including the Janesville Gazette and WCLO/WJVL radio. A vehicle crash at Parker Place and Wall Street ...
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Displaced residents back home after gas leak

Posted by MIKE DUPRE' at 9:35 a.m. December 24, 2007

Displaced by a natural gas outage Sunday night, many residents and employees of some 280 homes and businesses east of Beloit began returning home and to work this morning to ...
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At least one dead in weekend snowstorm

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 5:08 p.m. December 23, 2007

MILWAUKEE (AP) - At least one person is dead after this weekend's winter storm that hit much of the state. The Trempealeau County sheriff's department says 23-year-old Sara Spohn, of ...
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Power outage delays Gazette

Posted by SCOTT ANGUS at 3:06 a.m. December 23, 2007

A power outage on Janesville's east side early Sunday delayed delivery of The Janesville Gazette. The localized outage affected about 800 customers on Janesvillle's far east side. It hit about ...
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Hendricks services announced

Posted by STACY VOGEL at 6:13 p.m. December 22, 2007

A public funeral service for Beloit entrepreneur Ken Hendricks, who died Friday, will take place at noon Friday, Dec. 28, at First Lutheran Church in Janesville. A memorial service will ...
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Winter weather advisory overnight

Posted by STACY VOGEL at 1 p.m. December 22, 2007

Holiday travelers could be in for some messy roads today and tomorrow. A dense fog advisory continues in effect today until midnight. Between midnight and 6 a.m., Rock County will ...
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Lady Antebellum set for 2008 4-H fair

Posted by STACY VOGEL at 12:39 p.m. December 22, 2007

The Rock County 4-H Fair might have its first act lined up for 2008. Pollstar, a Web site listing concert dates and trade information, lists Lady Antebellum performing at the ...
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Brooks given life sentence

Posted by STACY VOGEL at 9:06 p.m. December 21, 2007

Shawn O. Brooks, who pleaded guilty to the March 2006 murder of Janesville woman Julienne McGuire, was sentenced to 75 years in prison and 50 years extended supervision today. Brooks ...
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Fog advisory extended

Posted by STACY VOGEL at 8:58 p.m. December 21, 2007

The dense fog advisory in effect for Rock and Walworth counties has been extended until 6 a.m. Saturday. Dense fog will continue throughout the night, reducing visibility to a quarter ...
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Fog advisory until 9 p.m.

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 1:38 p.m. December 21, 2007

A dense fog advisory is now in effect until 9 p.m. this evening for Rock, Green, Walworth, Dane and other southern Wisconsin counties. Dense fog will remain shrouded over the ...
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Stewart found guilty

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 1:01 p.m. December 21, 2007

A Rock County jury deliberated less than an hour before returning a verdict that declared 37-year-old Byron Stewart guilty of first degree intentional homicide in the shooting death of 35-year-old ...
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Doyle signs cable competition bill

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 12:48 p.m. December 21, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Gov. Jim Doyle signed into law a bill designed to increase cable competition in the state but not without making changes with his veto. Doyle says ...
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Van Hollen plans to run again

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 12:21 p.m. December 21, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen says he anticipates running for the position again in 2010. Van Hollen, a former U.S. attorney, is about to complete his ...
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ABC Supply statement on Hendricks' death

Posted by JIM LEUTE at 11:36 a.m. December 21, 2007

ABC Supply Mourns Loss of Founder and CEO Ken Hendricks It is with great sadness that we share the news that Ken Hendricks, founder, chairman and chief executive officer of ...
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Lawmakers make statements on Hendricks

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 11:19 a.m. December 21, 2007

Sen. Judy Robson (D-Beloit): “My heart goes out to Diane and all of Ken’s family members. Their loss is shared by Beloit, Janesville and the entire Stateline Area. Ken was ...
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Snowmobile trail closed

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 10:42 a.m. December 21, 2007

The Rock County Snowmobile Trail is now closed throughout the entire county due to weather conditions and will remain closed until colder weather below 34° returns. The Rock County Alliance ...
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Billionaire Hendricks dies after fall

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 9 a.m. December 21, 2007

Ken Hendricks, the Janesville native who rose from roofer’s son to roofing-company billionaire, died this morning from injuries suffered in a fall at his Afton home Thursday night. Hendricks apparently ...
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Miller, Coors sign agreement

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 6:31 a.m. December 21, 2007

MILWAUKEE (AP) - The parent company of Miller Brewing, and Molson Coors Brewing say they have signed a definitive agreement making the merger of their U.S. operations official. The two ...
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Tough month for snow removal

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 5:31 a.m. December 21, 2007

Don't feel bad if you're having trouble keeping up with snow removal. This winter has been a snowy one so far, and a lot of folks are having trouble keeping ...
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Walworth County done arguing over rezone

Posted by KAYLA BUNGE at 6:11 p.m. December 20, 2007

ELKHORN—The Walworth County Zoning Agency isn’t going to ruffle any more feathers. The committee decided it was best not to petition the landowners or town officials any further regarding the ...
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Covered Bridges proposal postponed until April

Posted by KAYLA BUNGE at 5:45 p.m. December 20, 2007

ELKHORN—Williams Bay developer Robert Clemen has temporarily withdrawn his proposal for 140 acres in Walworth Township. He said he probably won’t bring his proposal back to the county zoning committee ...
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Coroner's statement on Harrington death

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 12:55 p.m. December 20, 2007

Read the press release from the coroner's office regarding the death of Timothy Harrington [PDF]
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14th candidate seeks city council seat

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 10:12 a.m. December 20, 2007

JANESVILLE And then there were 14. Spencer Potter, 35, of 736 Somerset Drive, is the 14th candidate to start circulating nomination papers for Janesville City Council. Potter is an insurance ...
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Students head back to class at Johnson Creek

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 8:43 a.m. December 20, 2007

JOHNSON CREEK, Wis. (AP) - It's back to school for students at Johnson Creek Junior and Senior High School today. Classes were canceled Tuesday and Wednesday after a partial roof ...
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Temps threaten trails

Posted by STAN STRICKER at 6:01 a.m. December 20, 2007

The traditional winter weather has been making Rock County snowmobilers happy. Rock County Parks Director Lori Williams says the biggest concern for the county's trail system right now is the ...
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School on alert as Milton couple arrested

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 5:08 a.m. December 20, 2007

An eight-year-old Milton girl is in a safe environment after police arrested her parents Wednesday afternoon. 48-year-old Jeffrey A. Wickline and 46-year-old Lisa M. Wickline were both arrested in conjunction ...
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Listen to press conference audio

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 2:16 p.m. December 19, 2007

Click here to listen to the full press conference with Rock County Sheriff Bob Spoden regarding a Tuesday shooting in Clinton.
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Press release on Clinton shooting

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 1:05 p.m. December 19, 2007

Click here to read the press release from the sheriff's department regarding the officer involved shooting in Clinton [PDF]
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AG would prefer plea deal in Jensen case

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 11:39 a.m. December 19, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Wisconsin's attorney general says he hopes a plea deal can be reached that would avoid the retrial of the former state Assembly Speaker. Scott Jensen's three ...
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Charter Communications worker killed in Illinois

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 9:37 a.m. December 19, 2007

UNDATED (AP) - A Madison cable company says it's shocked and saddened by the death of one of its employees, killed in Illinois. Thirty-four-year-old Clinton Shaw of Stoughton died yesterday ...
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Five candidates seek school board seats

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 7:23 a.m. December 19, 2007

JANESVILLE—Two more people have declared their intent to run for Janesville School Board in the April elections. This brings the number of potential candidates to five, running for three seats. ...
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Deputies deliver arrest warrants

Posted by STAN STRICKER at 5:45 a.m. December 19, 2007

The Rock County Sheriff's department takes a more aggressive role in serving arrest warrants. Traditionally, it takes time and money to serve arrest warrants. Deputies often do it during the ...
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Suspect shot in Clinton

Posted by ANN MARIE AMES at 10:32 p.m. December 18, 2007

The Rock County Sheriff's Department and the Clinton Police Department were involved in the shooting of a criminal suspect Tuesday night, Sheriff Robert Spoden said in a press confrence at ...
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Clinton incident investigated

Posted by ANN MARIE AMES at 8:45 p.m. December 18, 2007

High-ranking officials with the Rock County Sheriff's Department, including Sheriff Bob Spoden and Cmdr. Troy Knudson, were at the scene of an incident at 207 Mill St., Clinton, tonight. Clinton ...
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Hearing set in baby death

Posted by MIKE DUPRE' at 5:09 p.m. December 18, 2007

A preliminary hearing was ordered Tuesday for Charles R. Rivers. Rivers, 34, of 171 Linn St., is charged with obstructing and child neglect resulting in death in the case of ...
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BTC woodworking classes suspended

Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ at 4:56 p.m. December 18, 2007

Blackhawk Technical College has suspended woodworking classes at its central campus, upsetting some students. The suspension addresses “a significant safety concern,” according to a memo enclosed in the agenda packet ...
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Dunkin' Donuts open

Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA at 4:35 p.m. December 18, 2007

Dunkin' Donuts was closed briefly after a small fire at 4 a.m. today.
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Judge denies motion to dismiss Larson Acre case

Posted by GINA DUWE at 3:18 p.m. December 18, 2007

Rock County Judge James Welker this morning denied a motion from an attorney for Larson Acres to dismiss an appeal of a state decision regarding a permit for one of ...
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Melvin says Gagne will probably address Mitchell Report

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 12:43 p.m. December 18, 2007

MILWAUKEE (AP) - Brewers general manager Doug Melvin says newly-signed closer Eric Gagne will probably address allegations made against him in the Mitchell Report. The report accuses Gagne of receiving ...
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GM will slow production in Janesville

Posted by JIM LEUTE at 10:49 a.m. December 18, 2007

General Motors officials said today they will decrease production of full-size sport utility vehicles at its Janesville assembly plant, a move that is expected to affect employment levels. The line ...
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Woman dies after crash

Posted by STAN STRICKER at 10:12 a.m. December 18, 2007

A 58-year-old Rock Township woman has died following a traffic accident yesterday on Highway 213 about a mile south of Orfordville. The Rock County Sheriff's Department reports they first responded ...
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Three more city council candidates

Posted by ANN FIORE at 8:16 a.m. December 18, 2007

JANESVILLE A Lear Corp. employee, a pharmaceutical salesperson and a retired doctor are the 11th, 12th and 13th people to consider running for Janesville City Council in April. The three ...
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Couple gives $175 million for college scholarships

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 7:03 a.m. December 18, 2007

UNDATED (AP) - A couple who graduated from UW Madison more than 50 years ago is giving $175 million dollars to help public high school graduates advance their education. The ...
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Beloit Turner teacher contract talks back on track

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 5:40 a.m. December 18, 2007

The Beloit Turner Education Association is bringing two offers to its members. Co-head negotiator Shelly Crull-Hanke says the two options the school district is offering is retirement benefits or a ...
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Plan commission OKs JPAC sign

Posted by ANN FIORE at 9:32 p.m. December 17, 2007

A new electronic sign will advertise events at the Janesville Performing Arts Center probably by spring. After a public hearing Monday, the plan commission approved, 5-1, a conditional sign permit ...
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City schedules snow removal

Posted by ANN FIORE at 4:40 p.m. December 17, 2007

On-street parking in the downtown area will be off limits beginning at 10 tonight as city of Janesville crews finish removing snow downtown. Downtown business owners are encouraged to remove ...
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Evansville officer no longer employed by department

Posted by GINA DUWE at 4:34 p.m. December 17, 2007

The Evansville police officer cited for disorderly conduct after a bar fight in Milton is no longer employed by the police department effective today, Police Chief Scott McElroy said. McElroy ...
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Traffic deaths already exceed total of a year ago

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 1:25 p.m. December 17, 2007

WAUSAU, Wis. (AP) - With the busy holiday traveling season still ahead, Wisconsin has already suffered more traffic crash deaths than a year ago. The state Department of Transportation reported ...
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Moves made in county board election

Posted by ANN MARIE AMES at 10:38 a.m. December 17, 2007

JANESVILLE - Six Rock County Board supervisors have filed declaration of non-candidacy in the spring election: Stephen Eager, William Agnew, Brad Adee, Charles Elliott, Wayne Moody and Neil Deupree. New ...
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E-mail list advises of snow removal

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 8:51 a.m. December 17, 2007

JANESVILLE—The City of Janesville has created a downtown snow removal e-mail distribution list. Individuals interested in learning when city crews will perform downtown snow removal are encouraged to join the ...
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Police ask for help searching for cat

Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO at 7:02 a.m. December 17, 2007

JANESVILLE—Janesville police are asking the public to help locate a stray cat that bit a 27-year-old woman at 5:30 a.m. Saturday at 327 S. Locust St. The victim said the ...
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Murder trial scheduled to begin today

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 5:28 a.m. December 17, 2007

It was the second homicide in 24 hours for Beloit Police last April. 35-year-old Carlos Lak was found dead in an Eighth Street residence after an apparent drug deal gone ...
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Welcome the Warhawks home

Posted by ANN MARIE AMES at 10:42 a.m. December 16, 2007

The DIII National champs should get back to Whitewater this afternoon.
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Snow emergency declared for 10 p.m.

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 6:59 p.m. December 15, 2007

The City of Janesville has declared a snow emergency for December 15, 2007, starting at 10:00 pm. A snow emergency means that all vehicles must be removed from city streets ...
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UW-Whitewater football wins national championship

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 6:40 p.m. December 15, 2007

UW-Whitewater finally did it. After losing to Mount Union (Ohio) the past two seasons in the NCAA Division III national championship football game, the Warhawks defeated the Purple Raiders, 31-21, ...
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Big turnout for GM grocery giveaway

Posted by ANN MARIE AMES at 11:18 a.m. December 15, 2007

More than 450 Janesville General Motors plant workers and their families were hard at work delivering groceries this morning. In the 29th annual event, GM workers bagged $22,000 worth of ...
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Snow removal in public parking lots beginning Friday night

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 9:09 p.m. December 14, 2007

The City of Janesville will be performing snow removal activities in downtown public parking lots Friday, December 14, beginning at 11 p.m. Citizens are advised to avoid parking in these ...
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Milton commission held illegal meeting

Posted by STACY VOGEL at 1:08 p.m. December 14, 2007

The Milton Police Commission held an illegal meeting Thursday to discuss Chief Tom Gilland's resignation, City Clerk Nancy Zastrow said. The commission scheduled the meeting after Gilland announced his retirement ...
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Great Lakes mayors tell candidates to make lakes a priority

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 12:37 p.m. December 14, 2007

RACINE, Wis. (AP) - A group of mayors from the Great Lakes states and Canada are telling candidates in the 2008 elections that they must make the waterways a priority. ...
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Math competition will be cut

Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ at 9:04 a.m. December 14, 2007

A Janesville School District’s math tournament is the latest casualty of district budget cuts. The tournament, based on a game called Math 24, has been held in elementary schools for ...
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Walworth County candidates to have forum

Posted by MIKE HEINE at 8:21 a.m. December 14, 2007

The Lakes Area Realtors Association is planning a Walworth County board candidate forum for early March. The forum will come after the February primary. An official date is not yet ...
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United Way campaign total grows slowly

Posted by STAN STRICKER at 6:10 a.m. December 14, 2007

Crunch time is near for the United Way of North Rock county. The United Way Campaign started last August, and still has a way to go. So, United Way President ...
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Poll shows pessimism over economy both in state

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 4:30 p.m. December 13, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A new poll shows that Wisconsin residents are pessimistic about the economy both in the state and nationally. The University of Wisconsin Survey Center Badger Poll ...
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Watch Selig's response

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 1:37 p.m. December 13, 2007

Click here to view live coverage of MLB Commissioner Bud Selig's response Mitchell's report on steroids use in MLB. The remarks are scheduled to begin at 3:30 local ...
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Watch video of Mitchell report

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 12:26 p.m. December 13, 2007

Click here to view live coverage as former Senator George Mitchell presents his report on steroids use in MLB. The presentation is scheduled to begin at 1:00 local ...
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Study will examine campus impact

Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ at 10:32 a.m. December 13, 2007

JANESVILLE—A UW-Rock County professor will study the economic impact of the college on Janesville’s south side. The UW-Rock County Foundation commissioned the study by George Jones, Ph.D., an associate professor ...
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Christmas may affect a Rock County murder trial

Posted by STAN STRICKER at 7:29 a.m. December 13, 2007

The Christmas holiday may prolong a Rock County murder trial. The trial of 37-year-old Byron Stewart of Beloit is scheduled to begin Monday in Rock County court. Stewart is accused ...
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Rock County Jail receives funds to house illegal aliens

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 5:46 a.m. December 13, 2007

ROCK COUNTY — Rock County is receiving almost $48,000 from the State Criminal Alien Assistance Program, or SCAAP. Sheriff Bob Spoden says the federal government provides reimbursement for overtime and ...
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Poll shows support for state-run health care

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 12:17 p.m. December 12, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A new poll shows that a majority of Wisconsin residents support a state-run health insurance system. The University of Wisconsin Survey Center's Badger Poll says 51 ...
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Tenth candidate files for council post

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 9:59 a.m. December 12, 2007

JANESVILLE—George Mark is the tenth candidate to take out nomination papers to run for Janesville City Council. Three of seven seats are open in the April election. All three incumbents—Craig ...
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Property tax bills are in the mail

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 9:12 a.m. December 12, 2007

JANESVILLE—Janesville city staff put residents’ property tax bills in the mail Tuesday, said Dave Godek, deputy clerk/treasurer. Personal property tax bills for businesses also are being mailed. Janesville residents must ...
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Two Janesville students expelled

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 7:28 a.m. December 12, 2007

JANESVILLE The Janesville School Board expelled two high school students Tuesday. Both were expelled through the end of the 2009-10 school year but could earn reinstatement starting with summer school ...
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City council studies pools tonight

Posted by STAN STRICKER at 6:27 a.m. December 12, 2007

The Janesville City Council Wednesday night will be studying what to do with the city's swimming pools. City Manager Steve Sheiffer tells WCLO's Stan Milam show any option is costly, ...
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Proposal promising cable competition passes Assembly

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 5:09 a.m. December 12, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A proposal lobbied heavily by AT&T that would do away with local cable television agreements in favor of a statewide licensing system passed the Legislature and ...
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Assembly gives prelim OK to bill on emergency contraception

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 5:08 a.m. December 12, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A bill that would require hospitals to supply emergency contraception to rape victims if they ask for it won preliminary approval in the state Assembly. The ...
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Snow emergency begins at 3 p.m.

Posted by GINA DUWE at 2:58 p.m. December 11, 2007

The City of Janesville has declared a snow emergency starting at 3 p.m. today.

A snow emergency is declared when plowing is scheduled. Once the city of Janesville has ...
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Latest closings, delays

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 1:23 p.m. December 11, 2007

Click here to get the latest closings and delays
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Milton city hall, library closed

Posted by STACY VOGEL at 12:52 p.m. December 11, 2007

Milton City Hall and Milton Public Library closed at noon today in consideration of the weather and bad driving conditions.
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Walworth County HHS is open

Posted by MIKE HEINE at 12:18 p.m. December 11, 2007

The Walworth County Health and Human Services Department is open, Director Linda Seemeyer said. A Milwaukee TV station erroneously reported this morning that the department was closed due to weather. ...
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Weather may cause paper delays

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 12:15 p.m. December 11, 2007

Gazette customers will likely experience delays in the delivery of Tuesday's newspaper, due to snow, sleet and ice affecting the entire readership area.
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UPDATE—Walworth County meetings cancelled

Posted by MIKE HEINE at 11:30 a.m. December 11, 2007

The Walworth County 911 governing board and the civil service board meetings scheduled for 1:30 p.m. and 3 p.m., respectively, have been canceled due to the weather. They were not ...
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11 arrested in Walworth County drug sweep

Posted by MIKE HEINE at 10:49 a.m. December 11, 2007

A drug sweep in Walworth County Monday led to the arrest of 11 people, age 18 to 45, for various drug delivery charges. Ten men and one woman all face ...
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Janesville plans plowing

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 8:17 a.m. December 11, 2007

From the City of Janesville: Winter weather including freezing rain and snow is forecast from Monday night, December 10, through Tuesday, December 11. The City of Janesville anticipates implementing plowing ...
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City watching weather conditions

Posted by ANN MARIE AMES at 7:55 a.m. December 11, 2007

The city of Janesville is not yet plowing snow, said Assistant Operations Director Mandy Bonneville. "We're taking a wait and see approach," Bonneville said. Bonneville advises homeowners to do the ...
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Opponents plan city aquatics protest

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 7:05 a.m. December 11, 2007

A group of Janesville citizens opposed to the possibility of an aquatics center being built at Palmer Park are planning to hold a protest there Tuesday afternoon. Even though City ...
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I-90 "ice covered and slippery"

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 6 a.m. December 11, 2007

Click here to view the latest road conditions
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Area closings, delays

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 5:51 a.m. December 11, 2007

Click here to get the latest closings and delays
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Ice storm warning issued

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 5:16 a.m. December 11, 2007

From the National Weather Service: The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued an ice storm warning which is in effect from 3 am to 3 pm Tuesday. The winter ...
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Edgerton High School could lose block scheduling

Posted by STACY VOGEL at 10:29 p.m. December 10, 2007

Changing from block scheduling to a traditional, seven-period day at Edgerton High School was one option discussed by the Edgerton School Board on Monday to handle drastic staff cuts in ...
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Mirbeau-Hummel issue going to referendum in April

Posted by KAYLA BUNGE at 10:21 p.m. December 10, 2007

LAKE GENEVA—The Lake Geneva City Council unanimously approved Monday night a referendum for the proposed Mirbeau-Hummel development against the city attorney’s recommendation. Alderman Larry Magee requested a referendum question be ...
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Council defeats skateboard ordinance

Posted by MARCIA NELESEN at 10:04 p.m. December 10, 2007

The Janesville City Council on Monday night defeated a proposed ordinance that would have banned skateboarders from downtown sidewalks on a 4-3 vote. Voting against the ordinance were Bill Truman, ...
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4K OK'd in Janesville

Posted by at 9:43 p.m. December 10, 2007

The Janesville School Board approved a controversial 4-year-old kindergarten program at its meeting Monday night. The vote was 6-3. Voting for the new program were Todd Bailey, Tim Cullen, Debra ...
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Second body found after snowmobile fell through ice on Rock River

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 6:51 p.m. December 10, 2007

JEFFERSON (AP)—The body of the second victim of a weekend accident in which a snowmobile fell through ice on the Rock River was recovered Monday, authorities said. The body of ...
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Family dog killed in Elkhorn house fire

Posted by MIKE HEINE at 6:16 p.m. December 10, 2007

ELKHORN—A Monday afternoon fire took the life of a 1-year-old black lab named ‘Moto’ and gutted a four-bedroom Victorian home at 221 S. Lincoln St. ...
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Winter storm watch issued

Posted by MIKE HEINE at 3:38 p.m. December 10, 2007

The National Weather Service, this afternoon, issued a winter storm watch for southern Wisconsin. A mixture of freezing rain and sleet is expected to start around ...
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Police investigate suspicious infant death

Posted by MIKE DUPRE' at 2:29 p.m. December 10, 2007

JANESVILLE—Detectives are investigating the “suspicious death” of a 1-year-old baby Saturday night. Janesville police were called to 171 Linn St. at 8:55 p.m. Saturday because of the death of Israel ...
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State Supreme Court hearing Walworth County case

Posted by MIKE HEINE at 9:01 a.m. December 10, 2007

The Wisconsin Supreme Court will hear oral arguments Tuesday morning in a parental-rights case that originated in Walworth County. The case examines state law and existing case law governing the ...
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Beloit Casino tribes file suit

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 5:50 a.m. December 10, 2007

The tribes involved in Beloit's casino project are asking the US District Court in Washington D.C. to prevent a change in procedures by the Bureau of Indian Affairs. Those tribes ...
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New sick leave rules will go into effect for UW employees

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 11:52 a.m. December 07, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The UW System Board of Regents has approved new rules governing sick leave for University of Wisconsin faculty and staff. The new policy requires professors to ...
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Police: Homicide likely narcotic-related

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 9:54 a.m. December 07, 2007

YORK TOWNSHIP—A November homicide investigation at a home west of New Glarus is revealing the incident is narcotic-related, not a random act, and that Mark C. Tobin, 38, was the ...
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Severson seeking school board seat

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 9:03 a.m. December 07, 2007

JANESVILLE—A third candidate has taken out papers to run for Janesville School Board in the April elections. He is Peter D. Severson of 1817 Wesley Ave. Severson ran unsuccessfully for ...
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Roundabout training for Janesville residents

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 7:08 a.m. December 07, 2007

JANESVILLE — The City of Janesville hopes to educate local motorists about two new roundabouts. Public Works Director Jack Messer says the city wants to familiarize citizens with the way ...
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Milton School Board asks for input on superintendent

Posted by BETH WHEELOCK at 5:53 a.m. December 07, 2007

MILTON — Milton school officials are asking for help selecting candidates for the next superintendent of schools. The school district and their consulting firm are hosting a series of listening ...
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Janesville snow emergency canceled

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 4:58 a.m. December 07, 2007

The City of Janesville has canceled the snow emergency declared for Friday.
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Janesville declares snow emergency

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 5:41 p.m. December 06, 2007

The City of Janesville has declared a snow emergency for December 7, 2007 starting at 12:00 a.m. A snow emergency means that all vehicles must be removed from city streets ...
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Snow advisory issued

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 3:31 p.m. December 06, 2007

The National Weather Service Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a snow advisory, which is in effect from 6 p.m. this evening to 3 a.m. Friday. Snow accumulations of 2 to 4 inches ...
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UW System approves tighter rules for student fees

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 12:22 p.m. December 06, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - University of Wisconsin System leaders have approved a controversial new policy that will make it harder for some nonprofit groups to receive student fees. UW System ...
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Residents reminded about snow rules

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 10:21 a.m. December 06, 2007

You’ve been warned. This time, you’ll have to move your car or face consequences. During the snow emergency earlier this week, the Janesville Police Department issued about 520 warnings to ...
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Warning about sex offender release

Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO at 7:35 a.m. December 06, 2007

JANESVILLE Police warned staff at Hedberg Public Library staff Wednesday about the release of sex offender Jonathan J. Burhans to an apartment near the library. “We’re concerned that Mr. Burhans ...
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Beloit shoot-out injures three men

Posted by STEVE BENTON at 5:44 a.m. December 06, 2007

BELOIT — Beloit police are investigating a home invasion and attempted robbery on the city's west side. Police Captain Bill Tyler says they started receiving calls of gunfire shortly before ...
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City to remove snow downtown

Posted by ANN FIORE at 4:56 p.m. December 05, 2007

In an effort to keep up with recent snowfalls, city of Janesville crews will remove snow from downtown streets beginning at 10 p.m. Sunday. Crews will start clearing midblock portions ...
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State Senate plans to pass measure banning 'Frankenstein Veto'

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 12:23 p.m. December 05, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The state Senate is scheduled to vote next week on a proposal to ban the so-called Frankenstein veto. The Assembly also would have to agree to ...
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Janesville delays brush collection

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 10:10 a.m. December 05, 2007

Due to snow removal activities, bagged yard waste collection scheduled for Wednesday December 5 will be delayed to Thursday December 6. Yard waste collection scheduled for Thursday December 6 and ...
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Court says virtual school not in compliance

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 10:09 a.m. December 05, 2007

MADISON–An appeals court says a Wisconsin school district is operating an online charter school in violation of state law. The District 2 Court of Appeals says the Wisconsin Virtual Academy ...
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Some snowmobile trails are open

Posted by STEVE BENTON at 9:40 a.m. December 05, 2007

Snowmobile trails in the northern half of Rock County are open. County Parks Director Laurie Williams says the trails that are open are clearly marked. They still need to put ...
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At least two killed in weather related crashes

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 9:31 a.m. December 05, 2007

UNDATED (AP) - The snowstorm has contributed to at least two deadly crashes on southern Wisconsin highways. A 69-year-old woman was killed about a half mile from her house in ...
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Walworth County deputies busy

Posted by MIKE HEINE at 8:21 a.m. December 05, 2007

Sheriff's deputies in Walworth County responded to about 40 traffic accidents and roadway runoffs since 3 p.m. Tuesday, Sgt. Mark Roum said. None that deputies responded to appeared to be ...
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Snow prompts some school delays

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 5:51 a.m. December 05, 2007

Get the full list of delays and snow emergencies here.
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Janesville woman dies in head-on collision

Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO at 5:31 a.m. December 05, 2007

A 41-year-old Janesville woman was killed in a two-vehicle accident at 7:20 p.m. Tuesday. The accident happened on County G, eight-tenths of a mile north of West Sunny Lane in ...
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Murder case continues against East Troy man

Posted by MIKE HEINE at 7:02 p.m. December 04, 2007

Walworth County Judge Robert Kennedy found enough evidence Tuesday after a preliminary hearing to continue the murder case against Jason H. Andritsch. Andritsch, 25, of 2178 Clark St., No. 7, ...
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City declares snow emergency

Posted by ANN FIORE at 3:56 p.m. December 04, 2007

The city of Janesville has declared a snow emergency beginning at 11 tonight. Under a snow emergency, drivers must remove their vehicles from city streets and public parking lots until ...
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Staskal hearing ordered

Posted by MIKE DUPRE' at 2:42 p.m. December 04, 2007

JANESVILLE—A hearing on whether to revoke Mark Staskal’s conditional release from a mental hospital is scheduled for 9 a.m. Wednesday, Dec. 19. Staskal, 44, had been living in Mendota Mental ...
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UPDATE—Five incumbents won't run for Walworth County Board

Posted by MIKE HEINE at 2 p.m. December 04, 2007

At least five Walworth County supervisors will vacate their seats come April. Supervisors Robert Arnold of Sugar Creek, Margaret Downing of Geneva Township, Allen Morrison of Sharon, Allan Polyock of ...
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Edgerton fire chief resigns

Posted by STACY VOGEL at 12:26 p.m. December 04, 2007

Edgerton Fire Chief John Gietzel notified the Edgerton Fire District Commission that he intends to resign effective Jan. 12. He will remain "as a consultant" until then, he said. Gietzel ...
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Watch President Bush news conference

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 8:40 a.m. December 04, 2007

You can watch President Bush's news conference live this morning beginning around 9:00. Click here to watch.
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Snow advisory issued

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 5:15 a.m. December 04, 2007

The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a snow advisory, which is in effect from noon today to 6 am Wednesday. Snow will develop in the west early this ...
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3,400 soldiers alerted to serve in Iraq and Kuwait in 2009

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 5:12 a.m. December 04, 2007

More than 3,400 soldiers from around Wisconsin have been alerted to serve in Iraq and Kuwait in 2009. The Wisconsin National Guard says its 32nd Brigade Combat Team, which includes ...
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Doyle calls on Legislature to pass smoking ban, autism coverage

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 1:45 p.m. December 03, 2007

MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Governor Doyle is trying to turn up the heat on a statewide smoking ban and insurance coverage for autism during news conferences in Madison, South Milwaukee ...
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Dancer arrested after alleged attack

Posted by GAZETTE STAFF at 10:09 a.m. December 03, 2007

BELOIT TOWNSHIP—A dancer at a strip club was arrested this morning after she allegedly attacked another dancer. Nikia Vogels, 19, of 363 Swan Lane, Janesville, turned herself in, police reported. ...
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Smart Growth meetings start tonight

Posted by MIKE HEINE at 8:02 a.m. December 03, 2007

RICHMOND TOWNSHIP—The first in a series of Walworth County Smart Growth public participation meetings in December is tonight. Each meeting will begin with an open house to provide for reviewing ...
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Storm claims at least 3 lives

Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS at 5:58 a.m. December 03, 2007

UNDATED (AP) - It's colder this morning in Wisconsin after the first big winter storm of the season killed at least three people among hundreds of traffic accidents. Much of ...
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Badgers to play Tennessee in Outback Bowl

Posted by TOM MILLER at 5:32 p.m. December 02, 2007

Get ready to hear "Rocky Top" on New Year's Day, Badger football fans. "Rocky Top" is the fight song of the Tennessee Volunteers, who accepted an invitation to play Wisconsin ...
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Subject in custody after shots fired

Posted by GINA DUWE at 9:44 p.m. December 01, 2007

A subject is in custody after authorities responded to a report of multiple shots fired at a home in the Town of Beloit, according to a Rock County dispatcher. Town ...
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Alliant working to restore power

Posted by GINA DUWE at 8:27 p.m. December 01, 2007

Alliant Energy crews are working to restore power to customers in the Edgerton area and throughout Walworth County, a spokesman said. Power should be restored to the 16 customers in ...
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Sports, community events are postponed

Posted by GINA DUWE at 2:33 p.m. December 01, 2007

The Janesville Parker and Craig girls basketball games for tonight have been canceled, as well as the Janesville Bluebirds hockey game. The Memory Tree of Lights event in Milton tonight ...
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DOT map: Highways snow covered and slippery

Posted by GINA DUWE at 2:15 p.m. December 01, 2007

Southern Wisconsin highways are snow covered and slippery, according to the Wisconsin Department of Transportation's 2 p.m. update. Click here for a map of winter road conditions.
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Snow causing multiple accidents; portion of I90 closing

Posted by GINA DUWE at 11:48 a.m. December 01, 2007

The Wisconsin State Patrol and Janesville Police are in the process of closing a portion of westbound Interstate 90 at Milton Avenue in Janesville, a police shift supervisor said. An ...
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