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Winter storm watch upgraded to warning
Posted by GINA DUWE on November 30, 2007
A winter storm watch for the Janesville area has been upgraded to a winter storm warning for Saturday. From the National Weather Service: The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a winter storm warning, which is in effect from 12 p.m. Saturday to 6 a.m. Sunday. The winter storm ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Lakes area burglary suspect found in Florida
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on November 30, 2007
The suspect in multiple burglaries in Rock and Walworth counties was apprehended Thursday in Sarasota County, Florida, Fontana police said today. Jonathan A. Jeske, 31, of Williams Bay is a suspect in at least five October burglaries in Fontana, Williams Bay and Walworth Township, according to police. Jeske is wanted ...Read more, add a comment »
Another candidate running for city council
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 30, 2007
A second person has registered as a candidate for Janesville City Council. Tom McDonald, 26, 64 S. Fremont St., Janesville has joined Karl Dommershausen as a candidate for the April elections. The council has three open seats and incumbents Paul Williams, Craig DeGarmo and Tim Wellnitz are not running again. ...Read more, add a comment »
Driver of Thursday fatal identified
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 30, 2007
Janesville prepares for winter storm
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 30, 2007
Janesville's snow plows are ready to handle winter weather this weekend, although Operations Director John Whitcomb says freezing rain might be a bigger problem. Whitcomb says city crews have been making last-minute checks of snow removal equipment. The city's policy is to start plowing when two to three inches of ...Read more, add a comment »
Bomb threat called into Lakeland School
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 29, 2007
ELKHORN—A bomb threat on Lakeland School kept students home Thursday, according to a press release from Walworth County. A staffer listened to the message on her voice mail about 8 a.m., Thursday. It was left after the school closed Wednesday, according to the release. Students initially remained on busses, which ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Winter Storm Watch issued
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 29, 2007
From the National Weather Service: Winter storm watch in effect from Saturday afternoon through late Saturday night. The NWS in milwaukee/sullivan has issued a winter storm watch, which is in effect from Saturday afternoon through Saturday night. Snow is expected to develop Saturday afternoon across southern Wisconsin. Snow amounts are ...Read more, view comment (1) »
UPDATE: Highway 11 reopened
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 29, 2007
Officials are reopening Highway 11 at Century Lane in Footville even though a semitrailer truck remains in the ditch, a spokesman for the Rock County Communications Center said. Cones will still block off part of the roadway, he said. The truck will probably remain in the ditch until tomorrow, the ...Read more, add a comment »
UPDATE: Fatality in Footville accident
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 29, 2007
A woman was killed in the accident involving a semitrailer truck and a station wagon, a Rock County sheriff's deputy told a Janesville Gazette photographer. The Ford station wagon, with a Wisconsin license plate, struck the semi head-on after the station wagon crossed the centerline on Highway 11 and Century ...Read more, add a comment »
Semi, car crash closes Highway 11
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 29, 2007
A helicopter has been called to transport at least one victim of a car-versus-semitrailer truck crash on Highway 11 and Century Lane, Footville. The call came in at 11:43 a.m. for an accident in front of Mid America Bank, a dispatcher at the Rock County Communications Center said. Officials are ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Doyle announces new initiatives for agriculture
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 29, 2007
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Gov. Jim Doyle has announced $33 million dollars in new initiatives for the state's agriculture industry. Doyle says the spending is targeted at expanding the next generation of dairy farmers and other agriculture businesses in Wisconsin. Doyle's plan includes making $13 million dollars available to farmers ...Read more, add a comment »
Packer fans check in to watch game
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 29, 2007
UNDATED (AP) - Green Bay Packers fans without television access to the big game tonight are making reservations in order watch the matchup with Dallas. Those who want to avoid crowded bars are checking into hotels in the Milwaukee and Green Bay television markets. Madison resident Tom Brotherton has a ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Incumbent will not run for school board
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 29, 2007
JANESVILLE One Janesville School Board incumbent said he won’t run again in the April elections. Incumbent Todd Bailey said Wednesday he will not seek another term. He will have served about five years on the board when his term ends in April 2008. Candidates may begin circulating nominating petitions Saturday. ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Whitewater house fire was minor
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 28, 2007
The fire at a Whitewater duplex Tuesday afternoon was contained quickly and caused very little damage, Fire Chief Howard Higgins said. Ten displaced UW-Whitewater students should be able to return home soon, he added. The fire at 406 Center St., started in the floor of a second-floor bedroom, possibly by ...Read more, add a comment »
House fire displaces 10 UW-Whitewater students
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 28, 2007
WHITEWATER—A fire at an off-campus duplex Tuesday afternoon displaced 10 UW-Whitewater students, according to the university. The fire at 406 Center St. started about 3:40 p.m., said Sgt. Mike Ciardo, emergency management coordinator for the city. He did not know a cause of the small fire or where exactly it ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Two join school board race
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 28, 2007
JANESVILLE Two people have taken out papers to run for the Janesville School Board in the April elections. Incumbent Kevin Murray and newcomer Tom Lemmer have registered their intentions to run. Murray, a paramedic/firefighter lieutenant with the Janesville Fire Department, is seeking his second three-year term on the board. Lemmer, ...Read more, add a comment »
Cattle caught in traffic
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 28, 2007
TURTLE TOWNSHIP—About 90 cattle were through a fence, and a vehicle may have struck one of them at about 6:30 a.m. today near County P and Gustafson Road, a Rock County dispatcher said. Apparently, the driver of the vehicle was not injured, the dispatcher said. Rock County Sheriff’s Department deputies ...Read more, view comments (13) »
Homeowners warned of letters
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 28, 2007
Rock County's Register of Deeds is warning homeowners not to get taken in by a company that offers to find a certified copy of their property deed. National Deed Service, Inc. is sending letters to local citizens offering to provide them with a copy of the document for $69.50. Register ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Mirbeau-Hummel development moves ahead
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on November 28, 2007
LAKE GENEVA--The Lake Geneva plan commission narrowly approved moving ahead with the proposed Mirbeau-Hummel development on the city's south side. After two more hours of public comment and nearly three hours of questioning, the plan commission voted 4-3 to rezone the 710 acres from rural holding to planned development and ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Williams won't seek re-election
Posted by ANN FIORE on November 27, 2007
Janesville City Council member Paul Williams announced today that he won't seek re-election to the council. Williams, 56, is serving his fourth two-year term. He said he and his wife, Mary, are investigating other career opportunities, which could include a move to the West Bend area. Three of the seven ...Read more, add a comment »
Residents evacuate Pathways
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on November 27, 2007
Outside deck burned this morning.
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Watch President Bush speak at 10:00
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 27, 2007
You can watch President Bush Bush’s address to the Middle East Peace meetings in Annapolis, Maryland by clicking here.The address is expected to begin at 10:00.
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Barn fire reported near Sharon
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 27, 2007
SHARON—A barn engulfed in flames was reported by to Rock County dispatch at 6:35 a.m. today. Passersby reported the fire in the area of County J and Countyline Road near the Rock/Walworth county line. Later, it was confirmed that the fire was at W9546 County B near Sharon. Clinton and ...Read more, add a comment »
Fire damages semi tractor
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 27, 2007
Damage is expected to be extensive in a semi tractor fire in the Town of Beloit early this morning.The truck was parked along Highway 51 near the Marine Corps League and Town of Beloit firefighters were on the scene around 3:30. Captain Emett Harold says although the cab was ...
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Public hearing scheduled on skateboard ordinance
Posted by ANN FIORE on November 26, 2007
Janesville residents can voice their opinions Dec. 10 on a proposed ordinance that regulates skateboarding in the city. The ordinance, which was introduced to the city council Monday, would ban skateboarding on city streets—per state law—and on all sidewalks and private property in the downtown area, except for the bike ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Witnesses sought for Elkhorn accident
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 26, 2007
Elkhorn police are looking for witnesses to a Thanksgiving night accident on the 400-block of Patricia Street. A flatbed tow truck was at a home attempting to repossess a truck parked in a driveway about 11 p.m. The front of the truck, owned by Jim Olson Collision Center in Woodstock, ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Teacher contract talks resume in Janesville
Posted by on November 26, 2007
Negotiators for the Janesville public school teachers and the school board met for about 90 minutes this evening and agreed to meet again on Dec. 7. The two sides had not met since Sept. 19 Both sides called it a productive meeting, but it was clear they are not close ...Read more, add a comment »
Suit against former Whitewater detective continuing
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 26, 2007
A defense motion filed Nov. 15 says Steven D. Cvicker should be forced to drop his harassment suit against retired Whitewater detective Larry Meyer after agreeing to an $82,500 settlement. The parties agreed to the settlement in return for Cvicker dropping his suit, yet Cvicker, 55, has refused to let ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Plan recommends 5 percent raises for state employees
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 26, 2007
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Many state employees would see 5 percent salary increases over the next 18 months under a plan being reviewed by the Legislature. The Office of State Employment Relations is recommending a 2 percent raise for nonunion state employees this month; a 2 percent raise in July ...Read more, view comments (9) »
Deer gun season closes
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 26, 2007
UNDATED (AP) - Wisconsin's regular deer hunting season is closed. The gun season ended at sunset last night. The state Department of Natural Resources doesn't have specifics on the number of deer killed yet, but says hunters took more deer than usual. At least two hunters were fatally shot in ...Read more, add a comment »
DeGarmo will not run for city council
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 26, 2007
Janesville City Council member Craig DeGarmo announced today that he will not seek re-election to the Janesville City Council in April 2008. DeGarmo, 41, will finish his fourth term on the Janesville City Council in April 2008.Read more, add a comment »
JEA and school board meet today
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 26, 2007
Negotiators from the Janesville Education Association and the Janesville School Board meet Monday afternoon in another attempt to reconcile their differences. JEA President Dave Parr says if the meeting goes well the two sides will meet weekly to reach a contract agreement. A state mediator had been scheduling sessions to ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Green Co. homicide was 'violent act'
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on November 24, 2007
A Green County man whose body was found in his home on Wednesday died “as the result of a violent act,” the Green County Sheriff’s Department reported Saturday. That conclusion is based on preliminary results of an autopsy and investigation of the crime scene, according to a news release. The ...Read more, add a comment »
Gun fired during Bloomfield domestic dispute
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 23, 2007
PELL LAKE—Bloomfield Township police arrested a Poplar Grove, Ill., man after he reportedly broke into his ex-girlfriend's house on Woodbrine Road and fired a gun during a domestic dispute, according to police. Joseph D. Huntzicker, 30, was armed and on the front porch when police arrived on the scene. He ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Murder trial coming to Walworth County
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 23, 2007
Walworth County will host a major murder trial starting Jan. 3. A Kenosha County judge ordered the trial for Mark Jensen be held in Elkhorn because the attention the case has received would make it difficult to find an impartial jury in Kenosha County. Jensen is suspected of poisoning his ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Doyle appoints Forbeck as Rock County judge
Posted by GINA DUWE on November 21, 2007
Gov. Jim Doyle announced today the appointment of Kenneth Forbeck to the Rock County Circuit Court, Branch 5. Forbeck will fill the vacancy created by the resignation of Judge John Roethe. Forbeck will complete Roethe’s term, which is due to expire July 31, 2009. Forbeck’s start date has not been ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Bill would ban text messaging while driving
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 21, 2007
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Wisconsin would become the third state to make text messaging while driving illegal under a bill to be introduced in the state Senate. The proposal by Republican Senator Alan Lasee of DePere is part of a growing national trend to cut down on distractions while driving. ...Read more, view comments (13) »
Statewide domestic abuse incidents decline
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 21, 2007
MADISON—The Department of Justice's Office of Crime Victim Services today released the 2006 Domestic Abuse Incident Report (DAIR). The annual report, compiled from data submitted by district attorneys’ offices throughout the state, shows the number of domestic abuse incidents declined. Statewide, the total number of domestic abuse incidents reported dropped ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Arrest in Beloit murder case
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 21, 2007
Read more at WCLO.com.Read more, view comments (4) »
Fire crews respond to chemical plant
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 21, 2007
JANESVILLE An adverse reaction when mixing chemicals Tuesday night caused $50,000 damage to a $3.3 million reactor at Evonik, formerly Degussa Goldschmidt Chemical. Janesville fire and police were dispatched at 8:52 p.m. to 900 S. Palm St. for an automatic alarm with water flow activation. Employees met firefighters at the ...Read more, add a comment »
Milton man injured in Interstate 90 crash
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 21, 2007
DANE COUNTY—A 39-year-old Milton man suffered life-threatening injuries in a one-vehicle crash Tuesday afternoon after he was ejected from his car on Interstate 90/39, near Edgerton. He was driving a 1999 four-door Acura, in the eastbound lane of the Interstate at 2:12 p.m., when his car drifted onto the left ...Read more, view comments (14) »
Winter weather advisory tonight
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 21, 2007
The National Weather Service issued a winter weather advisory tonight for southern Wisconsin, including Rock and Walworth counties. The advisory is in effect from 6 p.m. until 6 a.m. Thursday. Two to 3 inches of snow are possible, with a more wintery mix of rain and snow closer ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Staskal expected in court
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 21, 2007
MADISON, Wis. (ap) - A man found mentally not responsible for stabbing his sister to death 23 years ago is due for a status conference. Mark Staskal was released to a group home in Eau Claire earlier this month as part of a court-ordered conditional release plan, even though his ...Read more, add a comment »
Highway crews prepared for possible snow
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 21, 2007
Read the story at WCLO.comRead more, add a comment »
Milton Township approves levy increase
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 20, 2007
Milton Township residents approved a 33 percent levy increase Tuesday night after more than two hours of debate. The town is allowed to raise the levy that much because debt service isn't included in state levy limits, Chairman Bryan Meyer said. The town took out a $92,000 loan in June ...Read more, add a comment »
Clinton cuts senior director
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on November 20, 2007
The board approved the $1.5 million 2008 budget, which included cutting the position of senior center director.
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White Thanksgiving might be in store
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 20, 2007
The National Weather Service has issued a snow advisory for southeastern and south central Wisconsin from 3 p.m. Wednesday to 3 a.m. Thursday, just in time for Thanksgiving travel. The advisory covers Rock, Walworth, Jefferson, Waukesha, Milwaukee, Lafayette, Green, Racine and Kenosha counties. Forecasters expect two to three inches of ...Read more, add a comment »
UW plays role in stem cell breakthrough
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 20, 2007
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Wisconsin's stem cell research is back in the news today with a breakthrough discovery that could provide the medical payoffs of embryo cloning without the controversy. Scientists at the UW-Madison lab of stem cell pioneer Jamie Thomson and those at Kyoto University in Japan have made ...Read more, add a comment »
Mercy wins national quality award
Posted by GINA DUWE on November 20, 2007
President George W. Bush and Commerce Secretary Carlos Gutierrez today announced Mercy Health System as a recipient of the 2007 Malcolm Baldrige National Quality Award. The award, given by the U.S. Department of Commerce, is the nation’s highest presidential honor for quality and organizational performance excellence. “It is a great ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Sheriff’s department plans extra patrols
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 20, 2007
Starting Wednesday, more officers will focus on enforcing traffic laws along Interstate 90/39 in Rock County through the Thanksgiving weekend. In anticipation of heavy holiday traffic, special overtime was authorized for Rock County sheriff’s deputies and Wisconsin State Patrol troopers to dedicate their time to traffic enforcement on the Interstate. ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Rock County plans for new 911 tower
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 20, 2007
Read the story from WCLO.com.Read more, add a comment »
Drowning death on Lake Koshkonong
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 20, 2007
Click here for more details from WCLO.com.Read more, add a comment »
Panel hears arguments in case of sitting Supreme Court justice
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 19, 2007
WEST BEND, Wis. (AP) - The attorney for Supreme Court Justice Annette Ziegler says the judge has already paid a price for violating the state's code of judicial ethics. Attorney James Troupis says that price is the harm that's been done to Ziegler's name and her family. Troupis argued before ...Read more, add a comment »
Fire suspect to be arraigned Nov. 27
Posted by MIKE DUPRE' on November 19, 2007
JANESVILLE—The man charged in connection with the burglary and fire that caused some $100,000 damage Nov. 3 at the Odd Fellows Lodge in Janesville waived his right to a preliminary hearing Monday. Jeremy A. Brown, 24, Homewood, Ala., will appear in court next on Tuesday, Nov. 27, for an arraignment. ...Read more, add a comment »
Relays team up in Walworth County
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 19, 2007
Big Foot Relay For Life joined forces with the Lakes Area Relay For Life to form the Relay For Life of Walworth County. The Lakes Area and Big Foot events have been successful, but will merge because of their proximity. The committees that coordinated the two separate events will team ...Read more, add a comment »
Successful start to gun deer hunt
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 19, 2007
UNDATED (AP) - Department of Natural Resources wardens say the opening weekend for the gun deer season was a successful one. The cool weather and the fact deer are still mating helped hunters. Less wind and more snow would have been nice, but warden Mike Young in Outagamie County says ...Read more, add a comment »
Milton begins superintendent search
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 19, 2007
MILTON — The Milton School Board is first conducting interviews of two consulting firms Monday to help speed the search for a new superintendent. School board member Rob Roy says hiring consultants is much more cost-effective than using district staff to conduct a search in addition to their present duties. ...Read more, add a comment »
Court appearance for suspect in Odd Fellows destruction
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 19, 2007
A man charged in connection with the Nov. 3 fire at the Janesville Odd Fellows lodge is to appear in Rock County Court Monday. 24-year-old Jeremy Allen Brown of Homewood, Alabama is charged with burglary, criminal damage to property and theft. He was arrested on a preliminary charge of arson, ...Read more, add a comment »
Beloit to consider electric vehicles
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 19, 2007
In the near future, people could start cruising the streets of Beloit in neighborhood electric vehicles. Assistant City Manager Steve Gregg says a Janesville company is approaching Rock County communities about allowing the vehicles. The ordinance would permit electric vehicles that meet state and federal guidelines to operate on Beloit ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Kenseth wins NASCAR season finale
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 18, 2007
Cambridge native Matt Kenseth dominated and won Sunday's NASCAR Nextel Cup season finale at Homestead-Miami Speedway in Florida. Kenseth won what was the final race with his longtime crew chief, Robbie Reiser, who will assume the position of general manager of Roush Fenway Racing in 2008. Kenseth led a race-high ...Read more, add a comment »
One dead in Madison fire
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 18, 2007
MADISON, Wis. -- Fire hit a downtown Madison home early Sunday, killing one person and sending three to the hospital with burns, authorities said. Lori Wirth, public information officer for the Madison Fire department, said the single family house was rented by five people, but only four people were in ...Read more, add a comment »
New dates may be offered for teacher talks
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 16, 2007
The Janesville School District and teachers union appear to be caught in a bit of a waiting game over stalled contract talks. Their last negotiating session was September 19th. Following a closed door school board meeting Friday morning, Superintendent Tom Evert suggested new dates would be offered. JEA President Dave ...Read more, add a comment »
Hunters urged to be safe
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 16, 2007
As hunters don their blaze orange and head out into the woods this week, the Rock County Sheriff's Department urges everyone to practice all of the familiar safety measures.Spokesman, Lt. Gary Groelle says threat every firearm as if it were loaded, always point the muzzle in a safe direction, ...
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Audit: State never implemented health care program for businesses
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 16, 2007
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A program created by Wisconsin lawmakers in 1999 to reduce health care costs for small businesses was never implemented. The Legislative Audit Bureau says the program was canceled after insurers weren't interested in participating. Auditors say the state spent more than $470,000 before abandoning the effort ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Robbery suspect identified by DNA
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 16, 2007
ELKHORN—Authorities think they’ve found the man who attempted to rob the Lake Geneva Shell station more than two years ago.The DNA of Kirk Meyerson, 20, of N2616 Harris Road, Williams Bay, was found on a mask left at the scene May 24, 2005, Assistant District Attorney Diane Donohoo ...
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United Way tops $1 million
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 16, 2007
Donations for this year's United Way of North Rock County Fund drive are adding up. The fund drive has reached the $1 million mark. United Way spokeswoman Linda Lyke says this is the time of year donations begin to roll in. Larger organizations finishing up their campaigns include, UW-Rock County, ...Read more, add a comment »
Janesville School Board gets contract update
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 16, 2007
The Janesville School Board meets in a special closed session today to receive an update on contract negotiations from the district's lead negotiator. Superintendent Tom Evert says the school board hopes to schedule a mediation session with the state mediator and the Janesville Education Association's negotiators. The board will also ...Read more, add a comment »
Committee tables Walworth Township housing development
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on November 15, 2007
ELKHORN—It’s back to the drawing board for Williams Bay developer Robert Clemen—that is, if he wants the chance at having the county zoning committee approve his proposal for 140 acres in Walworth Township. “I’m not sure I’m ready to deny the whole project,” committee member Gregory Holden said. “I’d be ...Read more, add a comment »
Genoa City girl charged with homicide by OWI
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 15, 2007
ELKHORN—A criminal complaint charging a Badger High School junior with homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle revealed no surprises. Krystal A. Hart, 16, of 438 Main St., Lake Geneva, was northbound in the southbound lane of County H in Como the early morning of Nov. 3 when she slammed ...Read more, view comments (15) »
McGuire fights Jesuits' efforts to expel him
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 15, 2007
CHICAGO (AP) - A priest convicted of molesting two boys says he's fighting efforts by the Jesuits to expel him from the religious order. Last year, a Wisconsin jury convicted the Reverend Donald McGuire of molesting two boys from Loyola Academy in Wilmette in the 1960s. McGuire now faces lawsuits ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Former Beloit City Manager arrested in Arizona
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 15, 2007
The man who ran the city of Beloit two decades ago is facing a sexual indecency charge in Arizona.Dave Wilcox was Beloit city manager for six years beginning in 1986. He was a long time city manager in Flagstaff, Arizona beginning in 1992. He recently became a consultant ...
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Lakeland School appeal argument online
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 15, 2007
Oral arguments from the Disability Rights Wisconsin vs. Walworth County lawsuit can be heard online here. The arguments were made Friday, Nov. 9, at the United States Appeals Court in Chicago. Disability Rights Wisconsin is suing Walworth County for building a bigger school for children with disabilities. DRW ...Read more, add a comment »
Arrest made for home burglaries
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on November 15, 2007
A Williams Bay man arrested Tuesday is suspected in thefts in Clinton and in Turtle Township and is a suspect in a series of home burglaries and vehicle break-ins in Walworth County, police said. Jonathan A. Jeske, 31, whose last known address was in Williams Bay, was arrested in Beloit ...Read more, add a comment »
Three middle-schoolers expelled
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 15, 2007
The Janesville School Board expelled three middle-school students Tuesday.The students were accused of burglarizing a school, damaging school property and stealing school equipment.
The district does not reveal the age or gender of expelled students, but police reported that three 14-year-old boys were referred to juvenile authorities Oct. ...
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Charges for bank robbery suspects
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 15, 2007
Six suspects now face federal charges for a Rock County bank robbery.The six are charged with armed bank robbery and conspiracy to commit bank robbery of Mid America bank in Footville. Five of the defendants are also charged with possessing firearms. Thirty-five- year-old Troy Thomas and 21-year-old Curtis Seaberry, ...
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Deputies focus on warrants
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 15, 2007
ROCK COUNTY — The Rock County Sheriff’s Department is getting into the habit of setting a day aside for a group of deputies to focus on serving arrest warrants. Sheriff’s Lieutenant Jim Dilley says this is not the typical way many arrest warrants are served. Usually deputies discover a suspect ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Fire district to reinstate employees
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 14, 2007
The Edgerton Fire Protection District Commission voted tonight to reinstate three men fired in 2003. The commission voted after a closed session to send a letter to the three fired employees, their lawyer and their union representative offering to reinstate them effective Dec. 2. A 2004 ruling from the Wisconsin ...Read more, add a comment »
Hay bales on fire
Posted by GINA DUWE on November 14, 2007
Firefighters are working to put out a hay bale fire at 12238 W. County A in Center Township, according to Rock County dispatch. Footville firefighters were called at 1:40 p.m., and Evansville Fire has been sent to help.Read more, add a comment »
Prison hostage released
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 14, 2007
WAUPUN, Wis. (AP) - Department of Corrections spokeswoman Amy Reid says the hostage at Waupun Correctional Institution has been released. Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.Read more, add a comment »
JEA plans more job actions
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 14, 2007
Janesville teachers have already started a series of job actions because of the stalled contract talks.Janesville Education Association President Dave Parr says it's time to turn up the heat. He is sending out a long list of additional extra curricular duties to cancel. He also is asking teachers ...
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UPDATED: Prison in lockdown
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 14, 2007
WAUPUN, Wis. (AP) - An inmate at the Waupun prison is holding a hostage, causing the institution to implement an emergency lockdown. State corrections officials say Waupun Correctional Institution supervisors were notified about the incident about 6:30 this morning. The inmate had taken a non-uniformed dental technician hostage in a ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Prison in lockdown
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 14, 2007
WAUPUN (AP) - An inmate at the Waupun prison has taken a dental technician hostage today.State corrections officials say the prison is on lockdown because an inmate is holding the dental technician in a room at the Health and Segregation Complex. Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights ...
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Eau Claire City Council fights Staskal placement
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 14, 2007
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (AP) - The Eau Claire City Council is petitioning the governor on the group home placement of man who killed his sister. Mark Staskal had been living at the Mendota Mental Health Institute in Madison since fatally stabbing his sister, Marcy, in 1984 in Milton. He was ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Four treated after gas leak
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 14, 2007
BELOIT—Four Beloit Memorial Hospital staffers were treated in the emergency room after a gas leak in a supply room at 7:50 p.m. Tuesday. The city and hospital emergency plans were put into action, and the Janesville Fire Department hazardous materials response team was called. The treatment of the four people ...Read more, add a comment »
Governors come to Wisconsin
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 14, 2007
MILWAUKEE (AP) - Members of the Midwestern Governors Association are meeting in Milwaukee today and tomorrow, and the focus is on trying to make sure the Midwest goes green. Governor Jim Doyle is hosting the event as association chairman. It's called a summit on energy security and climate change. Plans ...Read more, add a comment »
Walworth County budget passes
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 13, 2007
The 2008 Walworth County budget passed 20-5 Tuesday night after several hours of debate. The taxed portion of the budget is $54.75 million, about 4.81 percent more than this year. The county tax on a $200,000 home is $781.29. Soaring employee health care costs are attributed to the rising county ...Read more, add a comment »
Board rejects cell phone tower
Posted by on November 13, 2007
JANESVILLE The Janesville School Board voted Tuesday night not to allow a cell-phone tower on the property of Marshall Middle School. The board heard opposition from parents and neighbors of the proposed 120-foot tower who were concerned about the harm to children’s health from a tower’s radio waves, although no ...Read more, add a comment »
Cause of fatal fire ruled undetermined
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 13, 2007
A report from the state's arson bureau narrowed possible causes in a fire that killed Julaine Houfe at her home at 6104 County N, Milton, on Aug. 31 but left the official cause as "undetermined." The report listed two causes it had not ruled out: that Houfe accidentally started the ...Read more, add a comment »
Sixth bank robbery suspect arrested
Posted by MIKE DUPRE' on November 13, 2007
ROCKFORD, Ill.—The sixth and final suspect in the robbery Friday of Mid America Bank in Footville was arrested in Rockford between 2:30 and 3 p.m. today. Matthew Evans, 26, was taken into custody without incident at his girlfriend’s home by a Rock County sheriff’s detective who went there to interview ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Fire board to meet Wednesday
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 13, 2007
The Edgerton Fire Protection District Commission will meet in closed session Wednesday to discuss its response to the Wisconsin Supreme Court's recent decision not to hear the district's appeal in its case against three fired employees. Because the Supreme Court declined to review the case, the district must now either ...Read more, add a comment »
Computer system for state prisons delayed
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 13, 2007
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - There are more delays for a new state prisons' computer system. It was supposed to be ready by June. But, now the Department of Corrections expects it won't be up and running until January. Corrections administrator Earl Fischer says the entire project probably won't be finished ...Read more, add a comment »
County board approves budget
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on November 13, 2007
JANESVILLE—The Rock County Board approved this morning a 2008 budget that was $54,000 more than the one proposed by Administrator Craig Knutson in October. The change was the addition of a full-time working supervisor at the Southern Wisconsin Regional Airport. Knutson had denied the addition, compromising with the promotion of ...Read more, add a comment »
Education group report critical of Wisconsin
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 13, 2007
UNDATED (AP) - A national education organization is critical of Wisconsin's efforts to help low-performing students succeed. The nonprofit group, Education Sector, says Wisconsin is overly optimistic about how its students are doing, in fact more so than other states. Research manager Kevin Carey says Wisconsin policymakers are fooling parents ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Monday’s 63 degrees didn’t break record
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 13, 2007
Monday’s warm weather sent kids outside without jackets, and a few adults even ventured out in shorts. The temperature reached 63 degrees—not a record, but awfully close. On Nov. 12, 1965, the high temperature was 65 degrees. Both of those temperatures are a far cry from Nov. 12, 1959, when ...Read more, add a comment »
School board will discuss cell tower
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 13, 2007
Saying it's everything from unhealthy to ungainly, some Janesville residents are telling the school board they don't want a cell tower on Marshall Middle School property. School Board commissioner Lori Stottler says she also has reservations about the potential health risks associated with the cell tower. Stottler says she won't ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Milton extends leaf collection
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 13, 2007
The City of Milton is extending its deadline for curbside fall leaf collection. Milton residents have until Sunday to rake leaves into the curb. On Monday, city crews will make a final sweep throughout the city to collect leaves.Read more, add a comment »
Forum today on property taxes
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 13, 2007
A coalition of state business, labor and policy groups hosts a public forum Tuesday to gather input from Janesville residents about property taxes and government spending. Mike Theo, a spokesman for the Wisconsin Way project, says Janesville is one of 12 communities statewide participating in such a forum. He says ...Read more, add a comment »
Council approves 2008 budget
Posted by ANN FIORE on November 12, 2007
City taxes on an average $112,700 home rise by $21 under a 2008 city budget approved unanimously Monday by the Janesville City Council. That number is slightly higher than the proposed $17.70 increase because of adjustments in the state budget. The council made only one change, moving $5,000 earmarked for ...Read more, add a comment »
Frat house fire may have been electrical
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 12, 2007
A UW-Whitewater student suffered smoke inhalation and minor cuts and bruises in a fire at the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity house early Monday morning, according to a news release from the university. The Janesville Gazette originally reported that none of the 10 residents were injured. The student was treated at ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Chicago man was lost in Kettle Moraine
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 12, 2007
Walworth County deputies were dispatched to the John Muir trails along County H in La Grange Township on Saturday evening for a report of a missing man. A 911 call came in from the man at 6:29 p.m. He reported he was lost and had been wandering in the woods ...Read more, add a comment »
UnitedHealthcare, Mercy sign new agreement
Posted by GINA DUWE on November 12, 2007
UnitedHealthcare, a United Health Group company, and Mercy Health System reached a new, multi-year agreement. UnitedHealthcare commercial health plan members will now have access to Mercy Hospital Janesville, Mercy Walworth Hospital and Mercy Health System clinics and medical centers in Wisconsin. The new agreement, effective Jan. 1, 2008, expands UnitedHealthcare’s ...Read more, add a comment »
Braun named Rookie of the Year
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 12, 2007
NEW YORK (AP) - The Milwaukee Brewers' Ryan Braun is the NL Rookie of the Year. The slugging third baseman edged Colorado shortstop Troy Tulowitzki by two points in balloting by the Baseball Writers' Association of America. Boston second baseman Dustin Pedroia ran away with the AL honor. Voting was ...Read more, add a comment »
Doyle signs bill raising assessment for corn marketing
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 12, 2007
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Corn growers will pay higher taxes to market their products under a law signed by Governor Jim Doyle. Doyle has signed a bill that increases the voluntary assessment by 0.4 cents per bushel on top of the current tax of 0.1 cents per bushel. Both houses ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Lawsuit may affect Beloit casino
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 12, 2007
BELOIT — Beloit officials, and the two tribes behind the Beloit casino application, are closely watching the progress of a lawsuit.City Manager Larry Arft says the St. Regis Mohawk tribe from New York state is suing the Federal Government for lack of action in regards to their casino application. ...
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SWAT team training on Kellogg Avenue
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 12, 2007
JANESVILLE—The Janesville Police Department SWAT team is conducting a training exercise until 3 p.m. Tuesday at 2300 Kellogg Ave. The empty building once housed Community Action of Rock and Walworth County offices.Training will begin at 7 a.m. No traffic or noise disruptions are expected, according to Janesville police.
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Tainted meat in Delavan
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 12, 2007
A TV crew from the Chicago CBS affiliate followed a truck load of unrefrigerated meat to a Delavan grocery store while he was researching a piece on tainted meat. The investigative report, by Dave Savini, said a wholesale meat market in Chicago packed a non-refrigerated truck with "hundreds of pounds ...Read more, add a comment »
Frat house fire out
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 12, 2007
WHITEWATER, Wis. (AP) - The fire is out at a fraternity house at UW Whitewater. Ten fraternity brothers escaped the burning house early today. Firefighters from Whitewater and the Town of La Grange battled the blaze at the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity house. A Whitewater dispatcher says the fire started ...Read more, view comments (2) »
UW-Whitewater fraternity house burns
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 12, 2007
WHITEWATER, Wis. (AP) - Ten University of Wisconsin-Whitewater students escaped their burning fraternity house early today. Firefighters from Whitewater and the Town of La Grange are on the scene of a blaze at the Tau Kappa Epsilon fraternity house. A dispatcher for Whitewater police and fire says the fire started ...Read more, add a comment »
Hearing tonight on city budget
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 12, 2007
The Janesville City Council holds a public hearing at tonight's meeting directly before voting on its proposed 2008 city and library budgets. At a recent budget study session, Fire Chief Larry Grorud told the council he hopes to cut down on overtime in the budget by hiring two firefighter paramedics. ...Read more, add a comment »
Cigarette legislation announced in Beloit
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 12, 2007
BELOIT — Senator Judy Robson is using Beloit Fire Headquarters Monday as a backdrop to introduce legislation on fire-safe cigarettes. Beloit Fire Chief Brad Liggett says 22 other states have similar legislation. He says this legislation mirrors what those states are doing so tobacco companies do not have to make ...Read more, add a comment »
Search continues for last robbery suspect
Posted by MIKE DUPRE' on November 10, 2007
One suspect from the Friday midday robbery of a Footville bank remained at large Saturday night, but police know who they are looking for. Matthew Evans, 26, address unknown, was still being hunted while five other people were in custody in Rock County and Winnebago County, Ill. Four of those ...Read more, add a comment »
Press release from sheriff's department
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 10, 2007
Click here to read the press release from the sheriff's department regarding Friday's bank robbery in Footville.Read more, view comment (1) »
Only one more suspect sought in robbery
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 10, 2007
The Rock County Sheriff's Department's latest news release regarding Friday's bank robbery in Footville, indicates one suspect is still at large.A source at the department said they currently have three suspects in custody at the Winnebago County, Illinois Sheriff's Department and one suspect in custody at the Rock ...
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Spoden: Be alert during search for robbery suspects
Posted by ADAM BERGSTROM on November 09, 2007
Rock County Sheriff Bob Spoden is warning residents to stay alert as authorities search for two suspects in Friday's robbery at Mid America Bank in Footville. Spoden says it's possible the suspects could have found a ride out of the search perimeter. Extra second-shift and third-shift deputies continued the search ...Read more, add a comment »
Report from scene of suspect search
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 09, 2007
Listen to WCLO's Stan Stricker report from the scene of the search for two suspects in a Friday robbery.Read more, add a comment »
View photos from suspect search
Posted by KYLE GEISSLER on November 09, 2007
View photos from the search for the Footville bank robbery suspects.Read more, add a comment »
Reward offered for alpaca slaying
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 09, 2007
The Humane Society of the United States is offering a $2,500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or people responsible for the recent decapitation of a 5-day-old alpaca north of Delavan. The Animal Defense Council has offered an additional $500, bringing the total reward ...Read more, view comments (3) »
UPDATE on Newark Elementary
Posted by MIKE DUPRE' on November 09, 2007
NEWARK TOWNSHIP Parents of students at Newark Elementary School will have to pick their children up this afternoon because bus service has been curtailed as authorities search for at least two bank robbers. The lockdown for students at Newark Elementary School was lifted about 2:15 p.m. today, but students were ...Read more, add a comment »
Residents asked to stay inside
Posted by KYLE GEISSLER on November 09, 2007
The Rock County Sheriff's Department is asking residents in Newark and Beloit townships to remain indoors and keep their doors locked as they search for two bank robbery suspects.
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Bank robbery in Footville
Posted by KYLE GEISSLER on November 09, 2007
A bank robbery was reported around midday at Mid-America Bank in Footville. Three suspects were apprehended after a chase in Illinois.
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Doyle appoints Fischer as commerce secretary
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 09, 2007
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Governor Jim Doyle has named developer Jack L. Fischer as the state's commerce secretary. Fischer is president of the Fischer Group Companies which focus on development of retail mall, offices and residential housing developments. He will start in the position on November 26th. His appointment is ...Read more, add a comment »
Whitewater man accused of stalking fair royalty
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 09, 2007
ELKHORN Walworth County prosecutors have charged a Whitewater man with stalking the former Walworth County Fairest of the Fair, who is now Wisconsin Fairest of the Fair. Joseph G. Schraeder, 58, of 147 Hyer Lane, No. 4, reportedly asked Sheri Nelson to be his “first lady” in June at the ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Updated: Reported robbery at Club 708
Posted by GINA DUWE on November 09, 2007
A bartender at Club 708, 708 S. Jackson St., was struck from behind by an unknown person while preparing to open the bar this morning, said Lt. Tim Hiers of the Janesville Police Department. The robbery occurred shortly before 7 a.m. The robber momentarily knocked the woman unconscious, and the ...Read more, add a comment »
Staph infections in WI schools
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 09, 2007
JANESVILLE — Although three students at Wisconsin schools have contracted highly-contagious staph infections an outbreak isn't necessarily a concern in Janesville schools. Mat Haeger, Manager of Health Services for the Janesville School District, says basic hygiene such as washing your hands and covering your mouth when you cough can prevent ...Read more, view comment (1) »
State settles with UW-Whitewater dean
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 09, 2007
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A legal settlement ends the saga between a former University of Wisconsin-Whitewater dean and the state. State officials will no longer seek reimbursement from former graduate studies dean Lee Jones after he dropped a federal lawsuit that claimed he was discriminated against. State lawyers dropped a ...Read more, add a comment »
Milton student sues school district
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 09, 2007
A Milton High School student is suing the school district after suffering a gym class injury a year ago. Scott Schroeder, attorney for the Juhl family, says the girl was climbing an indoor rock wall when the strap holding a pulley broke, causing the student to fall 10 to 15 ...Read more, add a comment »
Elkhorn man accused of possessing child porn
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 08, 2007
A case against an elderly man accused of possessing homemade child pornography will continue toward trial. Walworth County Judge James Carlson ruled that a search of Bruce T. Barker’s home, at N6632 Bowers Road, was legitimate despite the pornography last being seen by anyone in the mid 1980s. Police obtained ...Read more, add a comment »
Bail set in shaken baby case
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 08, 2007
A man suspected of shaking his infant daughter to death has a juvenile criminal history that included first-degree sexual assault, Walworth County District Attorney Phil Koss said. Jason H. Andritsch, 25, of 2178 Clark St., No. 7, East Troy, had spent time in a juvenile detention center for the crime, ...Read more, add a comment »
Senate passes anti-bully bill
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 08, 2007
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Schools would be required to adopt anti-bullying policies by August 15 under a bill that passed the state Senate today on a voice vote. The state Department of Public Instruction would be required to develop a model policy by March first that defines bullying and provides ...Read more, add a comment »
Janesville firefighters respond to garage fire
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 08, 2007
JANESVILLE—The Janesville Fire Department was dispatched at 12:08 p.m. today to a garage fire at 4739 W. Woods Edge Road in Rock Township. Less than 15 minutes after firefighters were dispatched to the scene, southwest of the city, the fire was under control, according to Rock County 911 Dispatch. Footville ...Read more, add a comment »
Beloit courthouse sold again
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 08, 2007
Beloit businessman Roger Bryden decides to sell the old Beloit Court House to a friend, instead of putting it back on the auction block. Bryden says he was prepared to use Beloit Auction Service to sell the property, but decided to sell it to Jeremy Toubl, who runs a construction ...Read more, add a comment »
Appeals court grants new trial for Scott Jensen
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 08, 2007
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A state appeals court in Madison has ordered a new trial for former state Assembly Speaker Scott Jensen. The Fourth District court ruled a Dane County judge wrongly excluded Jensen's testimony about his understanding of the use of state resources for campaigns. Jensen was found guilty ...Read more, add a comment »
Fewer clerks selling tobacco to minors
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 08, 2007
Most store clerks are not selling tobacco to juveniles—at least not in stings run by Rock County Youth2Youth in conjunction with the WI Wins Program and police departments in Janesville and Beloit. The results of the two latest operations encouraged Debbie Fischer, director of the Youth2Youth group. The groups plan ...Read more, add a comment »
Citizens ask Rock County Board for more funding
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 08, 2007
More than two dozen speakers came to address the Rock County Board Wednesday night. Most pleaded with the county supervisors to increase funding for the Developmental Disabilities Board and Human Services Department. Others shared their personal experiences to illustrate how much of a difference county services create in their lives. ...Read more, add a comment »
Two men arrested for theft
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 08, 2007
Two Janesville men are facing charges of theft after police stop their pickup truck with stolen property. Janesville police have been watching the area around the Swing-n-Slide company at 1212 Barberry Drive over the last couple of weeks after reports of the theft of aluminum forms used to make plastic ...Read more, add a comment »
Supervisor workshop upcoming
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 07, 2007
A second informational workshop on what it takes to be a Walworth County supervisor is set for tomorrow at 6 p.m. Board Chairwoman Nancy Russell and County Administrator David Bretl will discuss the duties, responsibilities and time commitments required for the position. The session is open to the public and ...Read more, add a comment »
Power restored to Janesville's east side
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 07, 2007
JANESVILLE—A squirrel in overhead power lines caused an outage on the city’s east side early Wednesday afternoon. Alliant Energy crews were called to the 1700 block of Hancock Lane at 12:06 p.m. after residents in the neighborhood reported a loud bang then lost power. The one hour and 15 minute ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Continued hearing on Mirbeau-Hummel at Badger High
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on November 07, 2007
LAKE GENEVA—The continued public hearing on the proposed Mirbeau-Hummel development will be held at 6 p.m. Tuesday, Nov. 27, in the Badger High School auditorium, 220 E. South St. The plan commission voted Oct. 30 to continue the hearing after dozens of people who registered to speak that night were ...Read more, add a comment »
Expect slow traffic around Parker
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on November 07, 2007
JANESVILLEConstruction at Parker High School will narrow traffic on Mineral Point Avenue to one lane on Thursday and Friday. A subcontractor on the Parker expansion project will be installing water and sewer laterals for the additions being built at Parker, said Dennis Ryan, chief engineer for the city. The ...
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Ceremonial start to school project
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on November 07, 2007
JANESVILLEGroundbreaking ceremonies at Craig and Parker high schools went off without a hitch this morning. Speakers repeatedly thanked the voters for approving the $70.8 million referendum. The vote occurred one year ago today. At the time it was the largest school referendum amount in state history, but other districts ...
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VIDEO - Watch the shuttle landing
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 07, 2007
Watch coverage of the space shuttle landing. AP coverage begins at 11 a.m. The shuttle is scheduled to land at 12:01 p.m.Click here to watch.
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Police seek cat that attacked girl
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 07, 2007
JANESVILLE—Police are looking for a cat that attacked a 1-year-old girl Tuesday in the 100 block of North Palm Street. The cat, described as a tan and orange tabby, entered the home when the girl’s father opened a door to let a friend’s dog out, said Lt. Tom Wolfram. The ...Read more, add a comment »
Judge allows bond for McGuire
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 07, 2007
CHICAGO (AP) – A federal judge on Tuesday ordered a Jesuit priest accused of molesting a boy he traveled with on an overseas trip released on $50,000 bail. U.S. Magistrate Judge Arlander Keys ordered the Rev. Donald J. McGuire, already free on bond while appealing a Wisconsin conviction on charges ...Read more, view comment (1) »
More help for Rock County DA
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 07, 2007
The Rock County District Attorney's office will get a little help from the state budget. Something's better than nothing, as far as the Rock County District attorney is concerned. David O'Leary is thankful the recently passed state budget will allow a half-time assistant DA in his office, to go full ...Read more, add a comment »
GM posts $39 billion loss
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 07, 2007
DETROIT (AP) - General Motors has posted a $39 billion net loss for the third quarter. An accounting shift involving deferred taxes is ending a string of three profitable quarters for the nations' largest automaker. Copyright 2007 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.Read more, add a comment »
Groundbreaking for school project today
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 07, 2007
School district officials gather Wednesday at both Janesville Parker and Janesville Craig to celebrate the official start to the high school facilities renovations. District spokeswoman Sheryl Miller says the date signifies one year since voters approved the $70.8 million school referendum, and two years since the school district began to ...Read more, add a comment »
Fire kept to two rooms
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 06, 2007
An overloaded power strip is being blamed for a midday residential fire in Janesville. Fire officials say the fire at 424 South Pearl Street was kept to two rooms in the basement thanks in part to the family's early warning from a working smoke detector. Authorities say one power strip, ...Read more, add a comment »
Crash closes Hwy 14
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 06, 2007
Highway 14 has been closed between Highway 51 and Hackbarth Road on Janesville's north side after a two-vehicle crash. The call came in to Rock County Communications at 2:42 p.m. from the 2800 block of Highway 14. Two MedFlight helicopters have been called for victims. A Rock County dispatcher recommended ...Read more, add a comment »
Health Department undertakes assessment
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 06, 2007
As the two year anniversary of the Beloit and Rock County Health Department merger approaches, officials are looking to gain a better insight as to services provided, compared to services needed. County Health Officer Dr. Joseph Schurhammer says a big part of the assessment will be to make sure Beloit ...Read more, add a comment »
Supreme Court denies Edgerton fire appeal
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 06, 2007
The Wisconsin Supreme Court has declined to review the appeal brought by the Edgerton Fire Protection District in its case against three fired employees and the Wisconsin Employment Relations Commission. Amanda Todd, a spokeswoman with the Supreme Court, confirmed the court declined to hear the case today with one dissent ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Staskal warns neighbors of dangerous son
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 06, 2007
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (AP) - The father of the son who killed his sister warned dozens of Eau Claire residents that his child remains a danger to society. Mark Staskal was released to an Eau Claire group home yesterday, despite objections from his parents and others. Staskal has been at ...Read more, view comments (4) »
A week of street work begins today
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 06, 2007
JANESVILLE—Street-resurfacing will begin today and continue through Wednesday, Nov. 14. The streets affected are: North Jackson Street from Centerway to Milwaukee Street, Center Avenue from Delavan Drive to 500 feet north of State Street and West Racine Street from River Street to Center Avenue. The resurfacing activities will include a ...Read more, add a comment »
Businessman will run for council
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 06, 2007
JANESVILLE A local businessman has decided to try again for a seat on the Janesville City Council. Karl Dommershausen said he has taken out papers to run for city council in the April election. Dommershausen ran unsuccessfully for council last April. He operates a downtown appraisal business, 27 West ...
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GM SUV sales up from October 2006
Posted by JIM LEUTE on November 06, 2007
JANESVILLE With two months to go, positive October sales of the full-size sport utility vehicles made in Janesville helped General Motors in its race to surpass last year’s level of sales. In October, GM sold 8,317 Chevy Suburbans and 16,066 Chevy Tahoes, up 15.3 percent and 26.8 percent, respectively, over ...Read more, add a comment »
Car crash injures four in Beloit
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 06, 2007
Four people sustained injuries in a one car accident early Tuesday morning on Beloit's northeast side. Sgt. Mark Franseen says the car went out of control and hit a guard rail in the area of Cranston Road and Fuller Drive around 2:00. The female driver of the car was issued ...Read more, add a comment »
Cellular tower wins approval
Posted by ANN FIORE on November 05, 2007
A cell-phone tower can go up at Marshall Middle School, the Janesville Plan Commission decided Monday. On a 4-3 vote, the commission narrowly approved a conditional-use permit for the tower, which was proposed by U.S. Cellular. The company says it needs the tower to improve coverage on the city's east ...Read more, add a comment »
Parker entrance will remain open
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on November 05, 2007
JANESVILLEThe main entrance and circle drive in front of Parker High School will stay open an extra day or two. The much-used drive and entrance had been scheduled to be closed Monday or Tuesday this week to allow construction of additions to the front of the building. Now, it ...
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East Troy man suspected of killing baby
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 05, 2007
ELKHORN—A month-old infant may be the Walworth County’s youngest ever homicide victim. Jason H. Andritsch, 25, of 2178 Clark St., No. 7, East Troy, is suspected of shaking his just-born baby, Naomi, on Oct. 7 while the mother went outside to dump out the baby’s bathwater, according to a ...
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Juvenile suspect in traffic death gets signature bond
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 05, 2007
Walworth County Judge James Carlson let a Genoa City girl suspected of killing a man by intoxicated driving out of custody on a signature bond. Krystal A Hart’s parents were allowed to co-sign a $50,000 recognizance bond Monday at a bail hearing. Hart, 16, is suspected of driving northbound ...
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Janesville man sentenced on drug charge
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 05, 2007
A Janesville man is sentenced to life in prison for distributing crack cocaine. Police say in January and February 2006, 32-year-old Jerome G. Hughes sold 48 grams of crack cocaine to a police informant. At his sentencing, U.S. District Judge John Shabaz determined that, in addition to selling up to ...Read more, add a comment »
Sentencing for theft conviction
Posted by MIKE DUPRE' on November 05, 2007
JANESVILLEZita VanHouten will spend a year in jail because she abused the trust of vulnerable adults, a Rock County judge decided Monday. Judge Michael Byron’s sentence was less than what the prosecution argued for and more than the defense wanted. But Byron explained that he ordered a year in ...
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Genoa City girl facing homicide by drunk driving charge
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 05, 2007
A Badger High School junior will be charged as an adult with homicide by intoxicated driving, Walworth County District Attorney Phil Koss said. Krystal A. Hart, 16, of Genoa City, had a blood alcohol level of 0.11 percent Saturday morning when she reportedly collided with another driver on County H ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Funding for court interpreters expanded
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 05, 2007
UNDATED (AP) - Wisconsinites with limited English don't have to show they're poor to get an interpreter if they find themselves in court. The new state budget expands the court interpreter program, providing interpreters in civil proceedings as well as criminal cases. Carmel Capati directs the state courts interpreter program. ...Read more, add a comment »
Walworth County supervisor workshops tomorrow, Thursday
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 05, 2007
Walworth County Board Chairwoman Nancy Russell and County Administrator David Bretl will be holding an informational meeting for candidates who are considering running for a Walworth County Board supervisor position in the spring of 2008. Two informational meetings are scheduled: 10 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 6 6 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 8 ...Read more, add a comment »
Jail will be part of budget review
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 05, 2007
The Rock County Board examines its 2008 budget this morning, which includes funding for the jail expansion project. County Administrator Craig Knutson says the money, generated by the county's sales tax, will not be completely spent in 2008 but will be available to fund the project when construction gets underway. ...Read more, add a comment »
Crash victim identified
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 05, 2007
A Delavan man died in a head-on car crash early Saturday morning in Geneva Township. Everardo Chimal Lopez, 54, was pronounced dead at Aurora Lakeland Medical Center at 3:43 a.m., about an hour after the accident on County H near Park Drive, said Walworth County Deputy Coroner Ron Wilson. He ...Read more, add a comment »
Strong winds expected today
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 05, 2007
Old Man Winter is waking up today, according to the National Weather Service. A wind advisory is in effect today from noon until 6 p.m. across all of southern Wisconsin. Westerly winds at 20-30 mph are expected with gusts up to 45 mph. Keep a firm grip on the wheel, ...Read more, add a comment »
Janesville roundabout nearly ready
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 05, 2007
A new roundabout intersection planned for the Menards complex under construction near Milton Avenue and Interstate 90 in Janesville is almost complete. It could be complete in less than two weeks. Janesville’s first roundabout in the Emeral Estate subdivision is already up and running, but receiving little traffic in the ...Read more, add a comment »
Beloit courthouse to be auctioned
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 05, 2007
BELOIT, Wis. (AP) - Now you can be the first person on your block to own -- a courthouse. The Beloit courthouse and its 2{-acre parking lot will be up for auction later this month. The current owner is Roger Bryden, who says he bought the vacant building last year ...Read more, add a comment »
JPD: Saturday fire was arson
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 04, 2007
An Alabama man was arrested in connection with the Saturday morning fire at 22 N. Main St., Janesville, the Janesville Police Department said. Jeremy A. Brown, 24, Homewood, Ala., was arrested at 5 a.m. Saturday--shortly after firefighters arrived at the blaze at the Odd Fellows Lodge--on charges of arson, theft, ...Read more, view comment (1) »
JFD responds to two fires Sat.
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 04, 2007
The Janesville Fire Department responded to two fires Saturday. The first occurred at 4:53 a.m. at the Odd Fellows Lodge, 22 N. Main St. The lodge sits above a vacant storefront in a group of connected buildings including The Looking Glass and Quotes taverns. Damage to the Odd Fellows Lodge ...Read more, add a comment »
Packers defeat Chiefs
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 04, 2007
Brett Favre hit Greg Jennings for a 60-yard touchdown pass with 3:05 to go and the Packers beat the Kansas City Chiefs 33-22 Sunday, giving Favre victories over each of the other 31 teams in the league. It's a career milestone that Peyton Manning and Tom Brady achieved just one ...Read more, add a comment »
Soldier motorcade to pass through county
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 04, 2007
A motorcade honoring a soldier killed in Afghanistan will pass through Rock County this afternoon on its way from Chicago to Madison. Army Sgt. Joshua Brennan, 22, died Oct. 26. He lived in Ontario, Ore., but spent his summers in McFarland with his father, Michael Brennan, an officer with the ...Read more, add a comment »
Walworth County crash kills one
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 03, 2007
One person was killed in a crash this morning in Geneva Township, the Town of Geneva Police said. Two cars were involved in the head-on crash on County H north of Park Drive, said Officer Eric Anderson with the town police department. The driver of one vehicle was killed. The ...Read more, add a comment »
Beloit ramp re-opened
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 03, 2007
The ramp from southbound Interstate 43 to westbound Interstate 90 is back open. The ramp had been closed after a semitrailer truck lost its load while driving south on I-43 near the first mile marker near Beloit.Read more, add a comment »
Ramp closed near Beloit
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 03, 2007
The ramp from southbound Interstate 43 to eastbound Interstate 90 is closed after a semi-trailer truck lost its load near mile marker 1 near Beloit. A flatbead semi lost a large piece of equipment, a spokeswoman for the Wisconsin State Patrol said. The ramp could remain closed a couple of ...Read more, add a comment »
County park gains "friends"
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 03, 2007
More than 20 people gathered at Magnolia Bluff County Park this morning to start a "friends" group to improve the park. Attendees included horseback riders, neighbors and conservationists. They discussed problems at the park such as erosion, invasive species and graffiti. To get involved, contact Rob Baller with the parks ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Jesuits release statement regarding McGuire
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 02, 2007
The Chicago Province of Jesuits released a statement Friday after learning of the federal charge filed against the Rev. Donald J. McGuire, a renowned priest who was once the confessor to Mother Teresa. The statement, attributed to the Rev. Edward Schmidt, says: The Chicago Province of the Society of Jesus ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Evansville picks firm for lake project
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 02, 2007
The Evansville Public Works Committee chose an engineering firm today to lead the city in the effort to return Lake Leota to a recreational lake. The committee chose Vierbicher Associates from a list of four finalists. It had received seven responses to its request for proposals. The firm is charged ...Read more, add a comment »
Water park opponent organizes
Posted by KYLE GEISSLER on November 02, 2007
Opposition against a proposed water park in Janesville may be growing. Tom Edwards tells WCLO's Stan Milam Show he has started a Web site opposed to the water park, in part because of safety. He predicts too much noise from the nearby highway. Edwards protest began when he learned the ...Read more, view comments (9) »
McGuire charged in federal court
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 02, 2007
The Janesville Gazette has learned that the Rev. Donald J. McGuire is being charged with sex crimes in the U.S. District Court, Northern District of Illinois. McGuire, who was denied a retrial yesterday by Walworth County Judge James Carlson, was arrested after the hearing for a probation violation. He will ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Report positive for transit systems
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 02, 2007
An annual report, produced for the legislature, puts the Janesville and Beloit transit systems in a good light. Beloit Transit Manager, Michelle Gavin, says ridership is up while working with a small staff. Janesville Transit Director, Dave Mumma, says they do a very good job of revenue recovery while operating ...Read more, add a comment »
Statewide VHS rules go into effect
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 02, 2007
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - New statewide emergency rules to combat a deadly fish virus have gone into effect. The rules prohibit out-of-state boaters from bringing water into Wisconsin in any of their equipment. All boaters must drain their live wells and bilges before leaving any state water. Anglers also can't ...Read more, add a comment »
Woman’s condition worsens to ‘critical’
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 02, 2007
MADISON—An Evansville woman injured in a motorcycle accident early Thursday morning was in critical condition this morning in University Hospital, Madison. Kari Keena, 24, was injured after falling off a motorcycle on the Racine Street bridge in Janesville. The motorcycle was driven by her brother, Bobby Keena, 21, of Janesville.Read more, view comments (3) »
Lake Geneva-based appraiser penalized
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 02, 2007
MADISON—The Wisconsin Real Estate Appraisers Board penalized a Lake Geneva real estate appraiser for performing an appraisal that failed to conform with the Uniform Standards of Professional Appraisal Practice. Michael G. Donahue was ordered to complete remedial education and to pay a $700 fine. The board also limited his license ...Read more, add a comment »
McGuire’s Jesuit order writes to judge
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 02, 2007
ELKHORN - The Rev. Donald J. McGuire’s Jesuit order, the Chicago Province of the Society of Jesus, apparently is severing ties with the retired priest. In a letter to Judge James Carlson, the Rev. Edward W. Schmidt asks that McGuire be jailed because he cannot be watched closely by the ...Read more, add a comment »
UPDATE: Hang glider crash
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 02, 2007
JEFFERSON, Wis. (AP) - A hang glider crashed in Jefferson County, injuring its rider. Sheriff's officials say an ultralight plane was towing the glider last evening when the two separated. The glider fell about 40 feet and crashed to the ground at the Twin Oaks Airport in the township of ...Read more, add a comment »
Janesville crash results in injuries
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 02, 2007
A two vehicle accident sends several people to the hospital. Janesville police report a car driving at a high rate of speed collided with another vehicle at Linn Street and Johnson Street around 9:00 Thursday night. The car driven by 26-year-old Vannak Youen of Janesville veered into a house in ...Read more, add a comment »
Woman injured in hang glider crash
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 01, 2007
A Janesville Gazette photographer at the scene of the reported plane crash said the incident involved an ultra-light towing a hang glider at an airstrip just north of the Whitewater city limits. A helicopter transported a woman who was maneuvering the hang glider to a hospital. It is unknown where ...Read more, add a comment »
Three-car accident injures five
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 01, 2007
WHITEWATER A three-vehicle crash on the Highway 12 bypass at 6:27 p.m. Halloween night sent a 16-month-old boy to Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin and injured four others. According to the Walworth County Sheriff’s Department: Brandi L. Goessling, 29, of Whitewater, was westbound on Highway 12 and attempted to turn left ...Read more, add a comment »
Plane crash reported in Whitewater
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 01, 2007
The Whitewater rescue squad was dispatched to a plane crash at the Twin Oaks Trailer Park in Whitewater at 5:43 p.m. The trailer park is off of Tratt Street north of Whitewater. There is an airstrip nearby. No further information is available at this time.Read more, add a comment »
McGuire jailed, motions denied
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 01, 2007
The Rev. Donald J. McGuire is in custody and will have to go to the Wisconsin Court of Appeals if he wishes to overturn a conviction on nearly 40-year-old child molestation charges. Minutes after Walworth County Judge James Carlson denied every defense motion requesting a new trial, McGuire, 77, was ...Read more, add a comment »
Rock County real property lister to retire
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on November 01, 2007
JANESVILLE—Rock County Real Property Lister Paul Clayton will retire Jan. 21, Administrator Craig Knutson announced today. Clayton has worked for the county since 1979 and been in the Real Property Department for 17 years. Clayton’s responsibilities include maintaining descriptions of real and personal property and preparing and updating property division ...Read more, add a comment »
Traffic deaths up
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 01, 2007
WAUSAU, Wis. (AP) - The state Transportation Department reports that with two months left in the year, traffic crashes on Wisconsin roads and highways have killed 635 people. That's up seven percent from a year ago, mostly because more motorcyclists have been killed. Daniel Lonsdorf of the agency's Bureau of ...Read more, add a comment »
Supervisor workshops being offered to candidates
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 01, 2007
Walworth County Board Chair Nancy Russell and County Administrator David Bretl will be holding an informational meeting for candidates who are considering running for a Walworth County Board supervisor position in the spring of 2008. Two informational meetings are scheduled: 10 a.m., Tuesday, Nov. 6, and 6 p.m., Thursday, Nov. ...Read more, add a comment »
McGuire motions under way
Posted by MIKE HEINE on November 01, 2007
The post-conviction motion hearing for The Rev. Donald McGuire, a renowned Jesuit priest convicted of nearly 40-year-old child molestation charges, is underway at the Walworth County Judicial Center. McGuire's attorneys are arguing there is new evidence to support a re-trial and also accuse former defense counsel Gerald Boyle of being ...Read more, add a comment »
Kenosha weighs Chrysler cuts
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 01, 2007
KENOSHA, Wis. (AP) - Union leaders at the Kenosha Chrysler plant say there's no immediate impact of the automaker's plan to cut up to 12,000 jobs. But, United Auto Workers Local 72 president Dan Kirk says they're not sure what the long range impact might be. The Kenosha plant builds ...Read more, add a comment »
UPDATE Sex offender turns himself in
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 01, 2007
Police checked on 17 registered sex offenders during trick-or-treat hours Wednesday and found one offender missing. Troy M. Barrett, 29, of 404 Milton Ave., was among 17 sex offenders whose homes were visited by police and a corrections officer. Barrett was not home where he should have been, and authorities ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Order to detain issued for missing sex offender
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 01, 2007
Police checked on 17 registered sex offenders during trick-or-treat hours Wednesday and found one offender missing. Troy M. Barrett, 29, of 404 Milton Ave., was among 17 sex offenders whose homes were visited by police and a corrections officer. Barrett was not home where he should have been, and authorities ...Read more, add a comment »
Residents object to Staskal decision
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 01, 2007
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (AP) - Some Eau Claire residents are objecting to a new neighbor -- a man convicted of killing his sister in 1984. Mark Staskal has been granted release to a group home in their neighborhood. He's been at the Mendota Mental Health Institute since he was found ...Read more, add a comment »
Fall from motorcycle leads to hospital
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 01, 2007
JANESVILLE—An Evansville woman was in serious condition this morning at University Hospital in Madison after falling off a motorcycle on the Racine Street bridge. Janesville police said Kari Keena, 24, was riding on the back of a motorcycle driven by her brother, Bobby Keena, 21, Janesville, at 1:24 a.m. today. ...Read more, add a comment »
Man accused of pointing gun at girlfriend
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 01, 2007
JANESVILLE—Police early this morning arrested a Janesville man accused of pointing a 9mm handgun at his girlfriend during a domestic dispute. Michael A. Gonzalez, 37, of 2116 Black Bridge Road, was arrested at his home at 12:22 a.m. on charges of recklessly endangering safety, endangering safety by use of a ...Read more, add a comment »
Phone lines opening for holiday program
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 01, 2007
JEFFERSON—Christmas Neighbors is opening phone lines for low-income families on Thursday, Nov. 1 when the program officially opens for the 55th year. The phone number is (920) 674-4499. The program provides gifts and food to low-income families in Jefferson County. Donations of new and used toys, non-perishable food items and ...Read more, add a comment »
