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Washington Road closed in Fulton
Posted by STACY VOGEL on March 31, 2008
Hal Mayer, highway superintendent for the Rock County Department of Public Works, announced that Washington Road from Hartzel Road to Stebbinsville Road in Fulton Township is closed because of high water. Contact Hal Mayer at 757-5465 if there are any questions.Read more, add a comment »
Student sues school district over religious drawing
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 31, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A student has filed a federal lawsuit alleging Tomah school officials censored his drawing because it featured a cross and a reference to a Bible verse. The student is a senior at Tomah High School. His lawsuit says his art teacher asked him in February to ...Read more, view comments (56) »
Lawton will run for governor if Doyle doesn't
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 31, 2008
Lt. Gov. Barbara Lawton tells The Associated Press she will run for governor in 2010 if Gov. Jim Doyle decides not to seek a third term. Doyle has not said whether he will run again but he continues to raise money as if he is. Lawton said Monday that she ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Flood warning for Sugar River
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 31, 2008
From the National Weather Service: The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a flood warning for the Sugar River at Brodhead from Tuesday morning until Saturday afternoon. At 9:15 a.m. Monday, the stage was 3.43 feet. Minor flooding is forecast. Flood stage is 5.0 feet. Forecast to rise above ...Read more, add a comment »
AG hosting roundtable in Elkhorn
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on March 31, 2008
ELKHORN--Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen and Sen. Neal Kedzie will be hosting a law enforcement and judicial roundtable at 1:30 p.m. in the community room at Peoples Bank, 837 N. Wisconsin St. The roundtable will provide law enforcement officials from Walworth County and the surrounding area an opportunity to discuss ...Read more, add a comment »
Butler says he likes his chances in Tuesday's election
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 31, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Justice Louis Butler says he feels confident voters will return him to a 10-year seat on the Supreme Court. Butler is trying to fend off a challenge from Burnett County Circuit Court Judge Michael Gableman in Tuesday's election. A sitting justice has not lost an election ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Rock County Council considers creation of mental health court
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on March 31, 2008
Rock County's Criminal Justice Coordinating Council is considering the creation of a mental health court, based on the success of its drug court. Criminal Justice Planner and Analyst Elizabeth Pohlman McQuillen says the mental health court is only one option for the county. The CJCC is deciding which direction to ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Flood watch issued
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 31, 2008
From the National Weather Service: A flood watch continues for a portion of south central Wisconsin, including Dane, Green, Iowa, Lafayette, Rock and Sauk counties. Strong low pressure will track from Kansas to northern Illinois today before crossing lower Michigan tonight. Warm and very moist Gulf of Mexico air drawn ...Read more, add a comment »
Milton Fire Department battling car fire
Posted by STACY VOGEL on March 30, 2008
The Milton Fire Department and Rock County Sheriff's Department have responded to a traffic accident and car fire at County N and Highway 59, Milton Township. A call came in for a one-vehicle accident with injury at 6:32 p.m., a Rock County dispatcher said. Scanner reports said the car fire ...Read more, view comments (8) »
Update on Dane County deputy hit in chase
Posted by STACY VOGEL on March 30, 2008
A Dane County deputy hit during a chase Friday suffered serious injuries to his legs, according to a news release issued today by the Dane County Sheriff's Office. Deputy Dale Veto, a 16-year veteran of the sheriff's office, was hit at 2 p.m. Friday by a fleeing vehicle on Highway ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Janesville man killed in crash
Posted by STACY VOGEL on March 30, 2008
A Janesville man was killed and a Fort Atkinson woman injured after a one-car rollover accident in Center Township early this morning, according to a news release from the Rock County Sheriff's Department. Jason D. Roettger, 33, was killed after he apparently lost control of his car around 1 a.m. ...Read more, view comments (18) »
Suspect in high-speed chase arrested
Posted by STACY VOGEL on March 29, 2008
A man suspected of leading police on a high-speed chase in Janesville early this morning was arrested in Winnebago County this afternoon, according to the Janesville Police Department. Thomas M. Mann Jr., 37, South Beloit, Ill., led police on a chase that reached speeds of 90 mph on West Court ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Long winter could delay planting
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 29, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) – State farmers are usually close to planting some oats, small grains and alfalfa in early April. But this year, winter may delay the process. "The temperatures aren’t warming up like we are used to,“ said Keith Ripp, a farmer near Lodi and president of the Wisconsin Soybean ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Truck crashes into Dane County home
Posted by STACY VOGEL on March 29, 2008
A Dane County homeowner got a scare early this morning when a truck crashed into a house in the Pleasant Springs township, causing $100,000 damage. Brian E. Swenson, 44, Stoughton, was driving on Pleasant Street at 12:53 a.m. when he failed to negotiate a curve and crashed into a home ...Read more, view comments (9) »
Rock County to host 2010 Alice in Dairyland competition
Posted by STACY VOGEL on March 28, 2008
Rock County will host the 2010 Alice in Dairyland Competition. Christine Rebout, executive director of the Janesville Area Visitors and Convention Bureau, made the announcement tonight at the Agribusiness Council of Rock County annual dinner. Alice in Dairyland serves as a spokeswoman for agribusiness throughout the state, Rebout said. Hosting ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Curry shoots Davidson over Wisconsin
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 28, 2008
DETROIT -- Stephen Curry knocked down yet another 3, thumped his chest and pointed skyward. Heavens yes, Davidson is marching on. Curry scored more than 30 points for a third straight game, and the 10th-seeded Wildcats pulled off another stunner Friday night, rolling over third-seeded Wisconsin 73-56 to advance to ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Butler, Gableman spar in Supreme Court debate
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 28, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Supreme Court challenger Michael Gableman is accusing Justice Louis Butler of being a "judicial activist" during his four years on the high court. Butler says Gableman is just sending signals to groups supporting him that he will rule in their favor, which is inappropriate for any ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Federal agency ranks Wisconsin home health care below average
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 28, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) - A recent report shows a federal agency ranked home health care quality in Wisconsin below the nation's average. The Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality rated the state's home health care quality as ``very weak,'' the same as last year. The National Healthcare Quality Report says Wisconsin ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Some flood warnings continue in Wisconsin
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 28, 2008
UNDATED, Wis. (AP) - Flood warnings continue for several rivers in southern and southeastern Wisconsin. The National Weather Service says some minor flooding has already occurred in parts of Jefferson, Kenosha, Racine, and Rock counties. Brian Hahm with National Weather Service says water is still rising in the affected areas. ...Read more, add a comment »
Turnout predicted to be 20 percent for Tuesday's election in Wis.
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 28, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A mere 20 percent of Wisconsin's voting-age population is predicted to turnout for Tuesday's election. The race for state Supreme Court tops the ballot. Voters also will decide on a constitutional amendment to limit the governor's veto authority and thousands of local issues. The state's Government ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Ryan says Fed rate cuts must stop
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 28, 2008
WAUKESHA, Wis. (AP) - Wisconsin Congressman Paul Ryan says the United States ``probably'' is in a recession. But he says the government should react to the situation carefully. The ranking Republican on the House Budget Committee says that means, among other think that the Federal Reserve Board shouldn't make any ...Read more, view comments (14) »
Woman sentenced in drunken driving death of UW-W professor
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 28, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A 20-year-old woman is sentenced to four years in prison for homicide by intoxicated use of a vehicle in a crash in which a University of Wisconsin-Whitewater professor was killed. Dane County Circuit Judge David Flanagan sentenced Samantha Young of Mount Horeb on Thursday in the ...Read more, view comments (20) »
Flooded basements could create hazard
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on March 28, 2008
As the snow melts this spring, Alliant Energy warns of hazards created by flooded basements. Spokesman Steve Schultz says even a small amount of water in a basement can put someone at risk for electrocution. Standing water can also snuff out a pilot light and fill a home with natural ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Milton candidates debate issues
Posted by STACY VOGEL on March 27, 2008
A looming referendum in the Milton School District and budget problems in the town and city of Milton topped concerns at the Milton candidate forum tonight in the Shaw Municipal Building. Newcomers Jon Cruzan and Fred Hookham debated the district's needs for a new high school. Cruzan, who co-chairs the ...Read more, view comment (1) »
2 named to UW Board of Regents
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on March 27, 2008
MADISON -- Gov. Jim Doyle today announced the appointments of John Drew and Betty Womack to the UW System Board of Regents. Womack's appointment is effective immediately. Drew's is effective June 1. Both terms expire May 1, 2014. The Governor also reappointed Danae Davis for a term to expire May ...Read more, add a comment »
Assembly speaker says he expects budget resolution within days
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 27, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The Republican speaker of the state Assembly says he expects a solution to the state's $527 million budget shortfall within days. Speaker Mike Huebsch (HIP-sh) of West Salem said Thursday in an interview with the WisconsinEye cable network that talks so far have been very productive ...Read more, add a comment »
Slow-No-Wake Enacted for Rock River
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 27, 2008
From the City of Janesville: The large spring snow melt in the drainage basin north of Janesville has resulted in swollen water conditions for the Rock River in Janesville. The City of Janesville has requested the Rock County Sheriff’s Department enact a slow-no-wake speed restriction for the Rock River within ...Read more, add a comment »
Board votes to consider regulating issue ads
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 27, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The state Government Accountability Board has voted to consider regulating issue ads. The move came Wednesday amid a Wisconsin Supreme Court race in which a study has said that businesses, unions and advocacy groups, which don t have to disclose who funds them, made 93 percent ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Nearly $600 million state budget shortfall still hanging
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 27, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Wisconsin's more than half a billion-dollar budget shortfall is still hanging, as legislative leaders meet behind closed doors trying to reach a compromise. Different budget repair bills have been passed by the Democratic-controlled Senate and Republican-controlled Assembly, and there are big differences between them. In a ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Rock County planning presents fairgrounds options
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on March 26, 2008
JANESVILLE--The Rock County Planning and Development Department on Wednesday presented six options for the location of a future fairgrounds and exposition center. Three options are within the boudaries of the “county farm north” property, a 314-acre parcel owned by the county at the northeast corner of highways 14 and 51 ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Ten arrested in tribal dispute
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 26, 2008
LAC DU FLAMBEAU – Members of the Lac Du Flambeau Band of Lake Superior Chippewa locked themselves in a tribal center today. They refused to come out until federal officials agree to investigate allegations of corruption among tribal leaders. Ten members of the group were arrested on tentative charges of ...Read more, add a comment »
DNR: Cougar likely 'completely wild'
Posted by GINA DUWE on March 26, 2008
MILTON--The Milton-area cougar is likely a wild animal that could have roamed here from South Dakota, the state Department of Natural Resources announced today. The conclusion is based on genetic testing that indicates the cougar seen in January east of Milton is a male of North American origin, according to ...Read more, view comments (10) »
Former state Senator Gary George could practice law again soon
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 26, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The attorney for former state Senator Gary George says today's decision by the state Supreme Court is a signficant victory for his client. The court rejected a recommendation from state regulators that George's law license be revoked for misconduct. Defense attorney Mark Hazelbaker says George wants ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Percheron rescued from ice-covered pond in Johnson Creek
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 26, 2008
JOHNSON CREEK, Wis. (AP) - An 1,800-pound Percheron draft horse is rescued after falling through an ice-covered pond in Johnson Creek. Lloyd Schultz is the public information officer for the Johnson Creek Fire and EMS Department. He says the seven-year-old horse, known as Katie, fell through the ice yesterday after ...Read more, add a comment »
Beer depot license relinquished
Posted by MIKE DUPRE' on March 26, 2008
The owner of a defunct, and often burglarized, liquor store has relinquished his alcohol-selling license. Kirit Sura of Crystal Lake, Ill., gave up the liquor license for Super Beer Depot, 1621 W. Court St., on Thursday as planned, Deputy Police Chief Steve Kopp said Tuesday. And police made another arrest ...Read more, view comments (14) »
Janesville man faces extradition on child pornography charges
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on March 26, 2008
A Janesville man faces 18 counts of child pornography after Rockford police traced a computer to him. Rockford Deputy Police Chief Greg Lindmark says 30-year-old Chad R. Moan is accused of selling a computer to a Rockford store. The store then resold the computer and the new ...
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Winter storm watch canceled
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 26, 2008
From the National Weather Service: The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has canceled the winter storm watch. The weather system that was forecast to dump significant accumulations of snow across southern Wisconsin Thursday and Thursday night, is now expected to pass well south of the state. Although periods of light ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Wisconsin Senate passes its budget plan
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 25, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The Wisconsin Senate has passed its plan to solve the $527 million budget shortfall. It includes a tax on hospitals opposed by Republicans and a delay in school aid payments the governor doesn't want. The Senate plan passed Tuesday also includes closing a tax loophole that ...Read more, add a comment »
Winter storm watch issued
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 25, 2008
From the National Weather Service: The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a winter storm watch which is in effect from Thursday morning through late Thursday night. Snowfall accumulations Thursday and Thursday night will likely exceed 6 inches across much of southern Wisconsin. Locally higher amounts are possible near ...Read more, view comments (20) »
Doyle: Wisconsin to move forward with renewable energy program
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 25, 2008
MIDDLETON, Wis. (AP) - Gov. Jim Doyle says he is moving forward with a new renewable energy program despite the state's budget shortfall. Doyle says the Department of Commerce will start taking applications from businesses and researchers seeking grants and loans from the Wisconsin Energy Independence Fund on April 1. ...Read more, add a comment »
Harley-Davidson says museum will open in July
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 25, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) - Harley-Davidson says its new museum in Milwaukee will open in July. That's the word Tuesday from the venerable motorcycle maker. Harley-Davidson had previously said its museum would open this summer. It says an exact date will be given in the coming months. Harley-Davidson also says it's offering ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Court: Parents aware of underage party can't be sued for accident
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 25, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The Wisconsin Supreme Court says parents who allow their underage children to host alcohol parties cannot be held liable if guests later get into car accidents. The court ruled in favor of two Columbia County parents who did not provide alcohol but allegedly knew high school ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Rock County warden warns ice not safe
Posted by STAN STRICKER on March 25, 2008
Don't let the winter-like weather fool you; the ice on area waterways is showing signs of spring. Rock County DNR Warden Boyd Richter says the danger of venturing out on the ice is too great. Some bodies of water look safer than others. He says though, he's been receiving reports ...Read more, view comments (2) »
3 Wisconsin residents sickened by cantaloupes
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 25, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The state Department of Health and Family Services says at least three Wisconsin residents have been sickened in a multistate salmonella outbreak believed to be linked to tainted cantaloupe. Stephanie Ward, a spokeswoman for the agency, says two of the adults are in Outagamie County and ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Funeral today for slain Realtor
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 25, 2008
CAMBRIDGE, Wis. (AP) - Funeral services are today in Cambridge for a Realtor who was killed while showing a house in the Jefferson County town of Oakland. A convicted sex offender from Illinois is charged with killing 71-year-old Ann B. Nelson of Cambridge as she showed the house to him. ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Janesville board OKs girls ice hockey co-op
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on March 24, 2008
JANESVILLE -- The Janesville School Board voted 6-3 tonight to approve a co-op girls ice hockey team. The team could include Beloit Memorial, Beloit Turner and Clinton high school students, if those districts approve, along with girls from Janesville Craig and Parker high schools. The Beloit School Board is expected ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Report says Wisconsin has shortage of mental health beds
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 24, 2008
UNDATED (AP) - A national report says Wisconsin is one of 11 states that have what a Virginia mental health group characterizes as a ``severe'' shortage of public hospital beds for psychiatric patients. The Treatment Advocacy Center suggests 50 beds per 100,000 people, whereas Wisconsin has less than half that. ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Doyle says he's not drawing any lines in sand of budget debate
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 24, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Gov. Jim Doyle says he's not drawing any lines in the sand when it comes to solving the state's $527 million budget shortfall. But Doyle said Monday he doesn't like a key part of the budget plan that passed the Assembly and is up for a ...Read more, view comments (5) »
GM plant’s second shift returns Tuesday
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on March 24, 2008
JANESVILLE—After a holiday today, a group of fresh faces will return to the General Motor’s plant on Tuesday. Second-shift workers will report at their normal time Tuesday. Last week, second-shift workers were laid off as a result of the United Auto Workers’ strike against American Axle, which supplies the local ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Madison breaks 100 inches for winter
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 24, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Madison has reached another milestone in snowfall for the season. The National Weather Service says the city received seven-tenths of an inch Sunday afternoon and evening, bringing its total for the winter of 2007-2008 to 100.4 inches. Madison's record snowfall prior to this winter was 76.1 ...Read more, add a comment »
Cambridge mourns for realtor killed last week
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 24, 2008
CAMBRIDGE, Wis. (AP) - Hundreds of people turned out to church for Easter and to start to mourn for realtor Ann Nelson. The 71-year-old Cambridge resident was murdered last week while showing a home in the town of Oakland in Jefferson County. Thirty-four-year-old James Hole has been charged with homicide, ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Janesville man hurt in fight
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on March 23, 2008
A Janesville man received serious injuries after a fight outside his home. Police were called to the 300 block of North Palm Street at 1:05 a.m. Sunday for a report of a man down. There they found Justin C. Erdman, 33, of 308 ½ North Palm St., Janesville with severe ...Read more, view comments (13) »
Monroe man dies in fire
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on March 23, 2008
MONROE, Wis. (AP) – Authorities say a 37-year-old man is dead in a house fire Sunday morning in Monroe. Police Chief Fred Kelley says the fire was reported about 12:30 a.m. He says police tried to get into the home to reach the man, after the rest of his family ...Read more, add a comment »
Higher fuel prices will mean higher food prices
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on March 23, 2008
STEVENS POINT, Wis. (AP) – When Jim Kawleski started driving a freight truck two decades ago, he paid about $500 a week for gas and tolls. He now spends that much in one day. Kawleski, owner-operator of RJ Transport in Junction City, drives once a week to Brownsville, Texas, to ...Read more, add a comment »
Stolen car fished out of Rock River
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on March 23, 2008
NEWVILLE-Law enforcement agents throughout northern Rock County responded to a report of a car in the Rock River on Sunday morning. The call came into Rock County Dispatch at 10:46 a.m. and the caller reported the vehicle was up to its roof in the water. The Rock County Sheriff’s Department, ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Flood warning extended
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on March 22, 2008
The National Weather Service at Sullivan has extended its flood warning for the Rock River, especially in areas near Afton and Newville. At 2:15 p.m. Saturday, the river level was at 9.10 feet at the Afton recording station. Flood stage is 9 feet.Read more, add a comment »
Milwaukee airport reopens
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on March 22, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) – Flights are taking off again at Milwaukee’s Mitchell International Airport on Saturday. Spokeswoman Pat Rowe says the first flights started leaving Saturday just before 10 a.m. She says about 200 people had to spend the night after the airport closed on Friday due to the heavy snow. ...Read more, add a comment »
More snow records
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on March 22, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) – Are you sick about hearing about the weather? Too bad, here’s another update. The latest snowstorm in southeastern Wisconsin packed a punch – and now it’s setting records. In Madison, 7.7 inches fell in yesterday’s storm, putting the city at 99.6 inches for the year. That means ...Read more, view comments (10) »
State agency advices caution on roads
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on March 21, 2008
The National Weather service has extended its snowfall forecast. The agency now projects that storm won’t clear the state until 3 a.m. to 4 a.m. Saturday morning. Falling temperatures and blowing snow may affect traffic lanes as temperatures drop tonight. Motorists are advised to slow down and stay alert for ...Read more, add a comment »
Safety moves, suggestions, made in wake of agent's slaying
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 21, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) - A real estate agency will use the buddy system when showing houses following the slaying of one of its agents. Barry Luce, an owner of RE/MAX Community Realty based in Lake Mills, says it's asking all the firm's agents to buddy up in pairs for a while ...Read more, view comments (8) »
Weather cancellations
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on March 21, 2008
You can check on weather cancellations here.Read more, add a comment »
Travel deteriorates, schools closed
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 21, 2008
UNDATED (AP) - Heavy snow is disrupting Easter travel plans in southern Wisconsin. Snowfall totals are adding up quickly and could reach 10 to 15 inches in far southern regions. Gusts of 15 to 30 miles per hour are expected near Lake Michigan, creating blizzard-like conditions. Some schools that weren't ...Read more, add a comment »
Travel warning from state patrol
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on March 21, 2008
From the Wisconsin State Patrol: A winter storm continues to blanket the southern 2/3 of Wisconsin. Severe winter weather conditions are occuring throughout the region with near white out conditions. Multiple traffic incidents are occuring all along the interstate system. If you must travel, consider traveling when the storm has ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Jury convicts Footville robbery suspect
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on March 21, 2008
MADISON—A federal jury convicted an Illinois man Wednesday on charges stemming from the robbery of the Mid America Bank in Footville on Nov. 9. Matthew Evans, 36, Rockford, Ill., is scheduled to be sentenced May 9 by U.S. District Judge Barbara Crabb, according to a news release from the U.S. ...Read more, view comment (1) »
House destroyed by fire, 3 cats killed
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 21, 2008
TOWN OF BERRY, Wis. (AP) - A house in the Dane County town of Berry was destroyed by fire Thursday night - a blaze that also killed the homeowner's three cats. Sheriff's authorities say the estimated loss is $350,000. Firefighters from Cross Plains, Black Earth, Middleton and Waunakee were called ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Updated winter storm forecast
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 21, 2008
From the National Weather Service: The winter storm warning is now in effect from 3 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday. A winter storm system is expected to produce from 6 to 10 inches of snow accumulation. The snow may be accompanied by thunder which could raise isolated totals to 12 ...Read more, add a comment »
Edgerton candidates face off
Posted by STACY VOGEL on March 20, 2008
Edgerton's two mayoral candidates, Erik Thompson and Matt McIntyre, discussed economic development, the possibility for a new city hall and recreational opportunities in a debate tonight at the Edgerton Public Library. About 30 residents watched the candidates answer eight questions from moderator Casey Langan. Both highlighted projects they spearheaded as ...Read more, add a comment »
Law comes down on wild pigs
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 20, 2008
MADISON – Gov. Jim Doyle has signed a bill into law that declares wild pigs harmful wild animals. Wild pigs have been a problem in southwestern Wisconsin for years. Their rooting destroys the ground and crops. Designating the pigs as harmful means no one can possess, sell, buy, display or ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Rock County appoints real property lister
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on March 20, 2008
JANESVILLE--Rock County Administrator Craig Knutson has appointed Michelle Schultz as the new real property lister for the county. The county will consider Schultz' appointment Thursday, March 27. Schultz is a cartographer who has worked in the department since July 1999. She has a bachelor's degree in cartography from UW-Whitewater. She ...Read more, add a comment »
Investigators suspect homicide in real estate agent's death
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 20, 2008
JEFFERSON, Wis. (AP) - Jefferson County sheriff's officials say they've arrested a man they believe is responsible for the murder of a real estate agent who was found dead in the house she was showing him. Sheriff's Detective Sergeant Lawrence Lee says the man was arrested after he was brought ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Update on winter storm
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 20, 2008
Southern Wisconsin is expected to get another blast of winter-like weather, just as the calendar turns to spring. The National Weather Service issued a winter storm watch for portions of southern Wisconsin Thursday night through Friday. The storm could dump 5 to 9 inches of snow in the southern third ...Read more, view comments (18) »
Flood warning for Rock River
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 20, 2008
From the National Weather Service: The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a flood warning for the Rock River at Afton from Thursday evening until further notice. At 8:15 p.m. Wednesday, the stage was 8.69 feet. Minor flooding is forecast. Flood stage is 9.0 feet. Forecast to rise above ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Feds approve aid for Feb. snowstorm
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 20, 2008
Federal aid will be coming to help pay the costs from the record snowfall that hit Wisconsin at the beginning of February. And that news comes just as the state is spending the first day of spring bracing for another dose of snow. The spring season arrived this morning, just ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Police say armed suspect report possibly a false alarm
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on March 19, 2008
JANESVILLE--It might be a case of mistaken identity that brought Janesville Police, Rock County sheriff's deputies, State Patrol units and a helicopter to Janesville's north east side Wednesday afternoon. Janesville Sgt. Steve DeWitt says a citizen on Satinwood Drive called 911 to report a man armed with a rifle in ...Read more, view comments (17) »
Police, airplane searching for person
Posted by GINA DUWE on March 19, 2008
JANESVILLE—Authorities are searching for a person dressed in white that pointed a rifle with a scope at a home in the 3100 block of Satinwood Drive near Woodcrest Park on Janesville’s northeast side at 3:03 p.m. today, according to police on the scene. Janesville police, Rock County sheriff’s deputies and ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Winter storm watch issued
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 19, 2008
From the National Weather Service: The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a winter storm watch, which is in effect from late Thursday night through Friday evening. A winter storm system is expected to produce from 4 to 7 inches of snow accumulation beginning around midnight Thursday, and continuing ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Body found in smoke-filled Jefferson County home
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 19, 2008
JEFFERSON, Wis. (AP) - The Jefferson County Sheriff's Department says a body has been found in a smoke-filled home in the town of Oakland. Sheriff Paul Milbrath says his officers found the body Tuesday night when they responded to a request to check the building for a real estate agent ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Murphy says Packers to retire Favre's number
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 19, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) - The president and chief executive officer of the Green Bay Packers says the team plans to retire Brett Favre's number during this coming season. Mark Murphy says he had a preliminary discussion with Favre, and that both Favre and the organization agreed that his number four would ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Police raid meth lab in Dane County
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 19, 2008
SUN PRAIRIE, Wis. (AP) - Police raided a residence in Sun Prairie and arrested two people in connection with an apparent methamphetamine manufacturing operation. Nearby homes were evacuated as a precaution when police and state agents executed a search warrant Tuesday. A man and woman were arrested on possible charges ...Read more, view comment (1) »
GM announces shift changes
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on March 19, 2008
The General Motors assembly plant is annoucing changes to shifts due to the onling strike at American Axel. You can read the memo here. Read more in today's Janesville Gazette, listen now to WCLO 1230 AM, and learn more later today on gazettextra.com.Read more, add a comment »
4H Fair line-up released
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on March 19, 2008
The Rock County 4-H Fair Board announced its main-stage entertainment lineup Tuesday. --Ronnie Milsap, who will perform Thursday, July 24 --Randy Travis, who will perform Friday, July 25 --Corbin Bleu, who will perform Saturday, July 26 --Lady Antebellum, who will perform Sunday, July 27 More details in today's Janesville Gazette ...Read more, view comments (39) »
Interim chief candidate meets council
Posted by STACY VOGEL on March 18, 2008
Robert W. Roberts, interim chief candidate for the Milton Police Department, met the Milton City Council tonight and laid out his plan for conducting an organizational review of the department and recruiting and hiring a new chief. Roberts said he will focus on communication with stakeholders such as city officials, ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Former Wis. veterans official charged with stealing $250,000
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 18, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - A former official at Wisconsin's nursing home for veterans has been charged with stealing approximately $250,000 from veterans organizations. Rich Calcut, the former public information officer at the Wisconsin Veterans Home, is charged with felony theft by fraud. A criminal complaint says the 52-year-old diverted money ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Dense fog advisory issued
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 18, 2008
The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a dense fog advisory, which is in effect until 3:00 p.m. this afternoon. Abundant moisture in the lower levels of the atmosphere, and light winds, will continue to produce widespread dense fog across much of southern Wisconsin through mid afternoon. Visibilities will ...Read more, add a comment »
JPD makes prostitution arrests
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on March 18, 2008
The Janesville police have issued a press release regarding recent prostitution arrests. Click here to read the release. More details to come.Read more, view comments (9) »
Police find attempted entry to beer depot, again
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on March 18, 2008
JANESVILLE Police report somebody made another attempt early today to break into the Super Beer Depot, 1621 W. Court St.. “We could tell somebody tried to get in but didn’t know if they did or not because there is no inventory and the owner won’t come and check the place,’’ ...Read more, view comments (37) »
Sheiffer appoints new second-in-command
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on March 18, 2008
JANESVILLE — Janesville City Manager Steve Sheiffer appoints Jay Winzenz as the city's new Director of Administrative Services, effective April 21. Winzenz began his employment with the city as Assistant Operations Director in the Public Works Department in 1988. In a memo to the City Council, Sheiffer says Winzenz is ...Read more, view comments (14) »
Firms sue Charter Communications over pay
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 17, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Two law firms say they’re suing cable television giant Charter Communications for failing to pay certain employees for certain tasks. Lawyers for the Madison-based firms say they’ve been given the go-ahead to expand their lawsuit on behalf of one client into a federal class action lawsuit. ...Read more, view comments (19) »
Stinski announces retirement
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on March 17, 2008
Janesville Director of Administrative Services and Assistant City Manager Herb Stinski is retiring. The following is a statement from City Manager Steve Sheiffer: Herb Stinski has informed me he will retire effective April 18, 2008. Mr. Stinski serves as both Director of Administrative Services and Assistant City Manager. Mr. Stinski ...Read more, view comment (1) »
More than 300 pardoned in last two decades
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 17, 2008
UNDATED (AP) - More than 300 people have been pardoned by Wisconsin governors in the last two decades. A review by Gannett newspapers in Wisconsin found that criminals have been pardoned for a wide range of convictions. They include homicide, sexual intercourse with a child, armed robbery, arson, battery to ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Rollover injures one
Posted by STAN STRICKER on March 17, 2008
A 46-year-old rural Beloit man is expected to survive after being partially ejected during a Sunday afternoon rollover accident. The Rock County Sheriff's Office says Todd Spink appears to have loss control of his pickup truck on West Saint Lawrence Avenue near South Burchfield Road. The truck rolled over, snapping ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Flood warnings issued for three Wisconsin rivers
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 17, 2008
SULLIVAN, Wis. (AP) - The National Weather Service has issued flood warnings for three Wisconsin rivers. The warnings are for the Fox River near New Munster in Kenosha County, the Pecatonica River at Martintown in Green County and Sugar River in Green and Rock counties. There is some minor flooding ...Read more, add a comment »
Celebrate responsibly this St. Patty's Day
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on March 15, 2008
JANESVILLE—Rock County Sheriff Robert Spoden reminds St. Patrick’s Day revelers to celebrate responsibly. Patrols will be increased this weekend, as will alcohol compliance checks at bars. The Rock County Sheriff’s Department offers the following tips for a safe and festive holiday: --Plan a safe way home before festivities begin --Before ...Read more, add a comment »
Monroe girls bring home state basketball title
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on March 15, 2008
MADISON—There’s a fondue party in Monroe tonight, as the Lady Cheesemakers bring home the team’s second state basketball title in three years after defeating Freedom, 42-34, in the WIAA Division 2 state championship game Saturday. Emily Rufenacht sunk two free throws with 44 seconds left and drove for the layup ...Read more, add a comment »
Janesville man arrested for allegedly stabbing his sister
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on March 15, 2008
JANESVILLE—Police arrested a 30-year-old Janesville man late Friday night after he allegedly stabbed his 24-year-old sister with a butcher knife during an argument at their apartment. Tamika N. Knight of Chicago called police from the nearby Stop-N-Go, 3515 E. Milwaukee St., and said her brother, Tarray Johnson, stabbed her. Police ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Flood watch issued for Rock River
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on March 15, 2008
The National Weather Service in Sullivan has issued a flood watch for the Rock River at Fort Atkinson from Monday evening until further notice. At 10:15 a.m. Saturday, the stage was 4.9 feet. Minor flooding is possible. Flood stage is 6.0 feet and may be reached by Monday evening. The ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Monroe girls headed to state championship
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on March 14, 2008
MADISON—Monroe is headed to the state championship for the second time in three years, after the Lady Cheesemakers defeated Altoona, 49-47, in the Division 2 semifinals Wisconsin State Girls Basketball Tournament. Monroe advances to tomorrow's championship game against Freedom, which beat top-ranked and previously undefeated Grafton, 65-61, in overtime in ...Read more, add a comment »
Badgers beat Michigan
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on March 14, 2008
The Wisconsin Badgers beat the Michigan Wolverines 51-34 in the quarterfinals of the Big Ten Conference Tournament on Friday. Joe Krabbenhoft scored 12 points and Michael Flowers keyed the No. 8 Badgers offensively and defensively in the lowest-scoring game in Big Ten tournament history.Read more, view comments (2) »
Doyle signs bill lowering age to donate blood in Wisconsin
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 14, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Sixteen-year-olds in Wisconsin can now donate blood. Gov. Jim Doyle signed a bill Friday that allows 16-year-olds to give blood with their parents' consent. The old minimum age was 17. Supporters of the bill say the change will foster a lifelong habit of donating among young ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Flood watch for Sugar River
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 14, 2008
From the National Weather Service: A flood watch continues for the Sugar River at Brodhead from midnight tonight until further notice. At 8:00 a.m. Friday, the stage was 4.0 feet. Minor flooding is possible flood stage is 5.0 feet. Flood stage may be reached by midnight tonight.Read more, view comments (2) »
Teachers sign off on make-up dates
Posted by MIKE DUPRE' on March 14, 2008
The teachers union has agreed with the Janesville school administration’s plan to make up two snow days on Saturdays in April and May. Sam Loizzo, president of the Janesville Education Association, confirmed the agreement Thursday. The JEA had to sign off on the makeup schedule because the union’s current contract ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Janesville adds sugar at wastewater treatment plant
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on March 14, 2008
The city of Janesville works on a more eco-friendly sewer treatment system. An unusual ingredient is being added at Janesville's Wastewater Treatment Plant. Utilities Director Dan Lynch says sugar along with molasses is taking the place of some less environmentally friendly chemicals. This should cut down on the amount of ...Read more, view comments (5) »
New law provides emergency contraception for rape victims
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 13, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Gov. Jim Doyle has signed into law a requirement that hospitals provide rape victims with emergency contraception upon their request. Doyle was surrounded Thursday by rape victims, lawmakers and others who have worked for years to get the bill passed. The bill requires Wisconsin emergency rooms ...Read more, view comments (65) »
Janesville brothers wrote tonight's Smallville episode
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on March 13, 2008
Brothers Aaron and Todd Helbing, formerly of Janesville, wrote tonight’s episode of Smallville. Now in its seventh season, Smallville is a new interpretation of the enduring Superman mythology where classic characters blend realism and adventure into an exciting action series, according to the CW Television network Website. Tonight’s untitled episode ...Read more, view comments (13) »
Trial ordered in baby's death
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 13, 2008
VERONA, Wis. (AP) - A day care provider from Verona has been ordered to stand trial in the death of a four-month-old boy in her care. Thirty-seven-year-old Jennifer Hancock is charged with first-degree reckless homicide in the September death of Lincoln Wilber. Hancock will also be tried on a charge ...Read more, add a comment »
Assembly votes to make English the official language in Wisconsin
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 13, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The Republican-controlled Assembly wants to make English the official language in Wisconsin. The bill passed early Thursday morning despite it having virtually no chance of passing the Democratic-controlled Senate or being signed into law by Gov. Jim Doyle. The bill would require that English be used ...Read more, view comments (106) »
Assembly passes its plan for budget shortfall
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 13, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - It looks like flashback time at the state Legislature. Republicans who control the Assembly passed a bill late last night for solving a $527 million budget shortfall, but it's almost certainly dead in the Democratic-controlled Senate that's winding up its session today. The shortfall is blamed ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Janesville Citgo robbed; police arrest suspect
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on March 12, 2008
JANESVILLE -- Police have arrested a man they suspect of robbing the Citgo gas station at 1002 S. Jackson St. at 7:41 p.m. tonight. A clerk told police a man entered the store, said he had a gun and threatened to shoot her if she did not give him money, ...Read more, view comments (32) »
Wisconsin on EPA's dirty-air list
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 12, 2008
WASHINGTON – The air in hundreds of U.S. counties, including eight in Wisconsin, is too dirty to breathe, the government said Wednesday as it ordered a multibillion-dollar expansion of efforts to clean up smog in cities and towns nationwide. The Environmental Protection Agency announced it was tightening the amount of ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Beloit casino affects tribal election
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 12, 2008
BAD RIVER – The chairwoman of a northern Wisconsin Chippewa tribe has been voted out of office after some complained that she was jeopardizing the tribe’s involvement in a proposed Beloit casino project. Tribal Chair Loretta Livingston, of the Bad River Band of Chippewa, lost a recall election Tuesday by ...Read more, view comments (2) »
GOP assembles budget plan
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 12, 2008
MADISON -– Republicans who control the Wisconsin Assembly are considering passing a bill on their final day in session that would address the state’s $527 million shortfall. What would be in that bill isn’t known. Republican lawmakers were discussing it in a closed meeting late Wednesday. Democratic Gov. Jim Doyle ...Read more, add a comment »
Teacher contract details to be released
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on March 12, 2008
JANESVILLE -- Janesville School District officials and teacher union representatives plan a joint press conference to discuss details of their tentative 2007-09 contract agreement. The conference is set for 7:30 a.m. Thursday at the Educational Services Center, 527 S. Franklin St.Read more, add a comment »
GM plans temporary layoff
Posted by JIM LEUTE on March 12, 2008
The General Motors assembly plant in Janesville will lay off its second shift of workers next week as the automaker continues its efforts to stretch depleting inventories of parts from American Axle. The local plant is dealing with the two-week old United Auto Workers strike against American on a weekly ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Milton names interim chief candidate
Posted by STACY VOGEL on March 12, 2008
The Milton Police Commission is considering Robert Roberts, a UW-Platteville professor and former police chief, for the position of interim police chief. The city named Roberts as the candidate in a news release Tuesday afternoon. Roberts is currently a criminal justice professor at UW-Platteville and a former educator at Fox ...Read more, add a comment »
Obama campaign to film video in Rock County
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on March 12, 2008
Barack Obama's supporters are in Rock County the remainder of the week and into the weekend to shoot a new music video for Obama's presidential campaign. The video features Beloit composer Rob Tomaro's song "It's Our Time Now". The song will be performed and filmed Wednesday at Cafe Belwah in ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Parker wrestling-room plans to change
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on March 11, 2008
JANESVILLE—The Janesville School Board has reversed an earlier decision and directed the administration to restore a wrestling-practice room as part of the Parker High School expansion plans. Plans for the referendum-funded expansion of Parker had called for eliminating the existing practice room in order to make room for expanded locker ...Read more, view comments (21) »
Ramp for Monterey Stadium in the works
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on March 11, 2008
JANESVILLE—A ramp to make Monterey Stadium’s concrete grandstand accessible to people with handicaps is in the works. The Janesville School Board tonight instructed the administration to get to work on a design to make the seating area accessible. Some board members expressed the hope that the ramp could be ready ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Snow-day makeup plan discussed
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on March 11, 2008
JANESVILLE—The Janesville public schools administration is now looking at April 12 and May 3—both Saturdays—for snow-day makeup days. A plan presented to the school board tonight still needs approval from the teachers union. The union contract forbids holding school on Saturdays, so the administration is seeking a waiver of the ...Read more, view comments (22) »
Director leaves Armory
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on March 11, 2008
JANESVILLE-On Monday, Armory theater director Jim Tropp resigned. On Thursday, the Armory’s production of “All Shook Up” opens. The show will go on, of course. Armory owner Mick Gilbertson said stage manager Eleanor Moriarty took over the show on Monday—just a few days ahead of schedule. Traditionally, a director and ...Read more, view comments (6) »
U.S. upholds two more stem cell patents held by Wis. group
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 11, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - The U.S. Patent and Trademark Office is upholding two more patents that cover embryonic stem cell research discovered at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. The office rejected arguments from consumer groups that the discoveries were obvious given previous research and therefore ineligible to be patented. The office ...Read more, add a comment »
Final layoff notices approved for 34 Appleton educators
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 11, 2008
APPLETON, Wis. (AP) – The Appleton Board of Education has approved final layoff notices for 34 educators. The move came Monday after the board voted in December to cut spending by $3.2 million and raise $800,000 in new revenue to offset an anticipated $4 million budget shortfall for the next ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Fire destroys $800,000 house
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 11, 2008
TOWN OF RUTLAND, Wis. (AP) - Fire destroyed a house worth $800,000 early today in Dane County. Sheriff's authorities say nine fire departments responded to the blaze in the Town of Rutland about 4:30 a.m. The homeowner spotted flames in the attic and alerted his wife, who was asleep in ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Job market expected to get stronger for Janesville and Beloit
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on March 11, 2008
Janesville employers expect to hire at a "strong pace" while Greater Beloit area employers expect to hire at a "respectable pace during the second quarter of 2008, according to the Manpower Employment Outlook Survey. Rock County Manpower spokeswoman Phyllis Soeder says from April to June, 37% of Janesville companies interviewed ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Janesville teachers have tentative contract
Posted by STEVE BENTON on March 11, 2008
The co-lead negotiator for the Janesville Education Association says it appears the two sides have worked out a tentative agreement. Jennifer Fanning says details of the pact will be shared with Janesville teachers this week and then released to the public. The two sides met Monday night without a mediator.Read more, add a comment »
Turner eyes land for purchase
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on March 11, 2008
BELOIT TOWNSHIP--The Turner School Board on Monday voted to proceed with negotiations for 40 acres of property a quarter mile north of the current middle/high school for possible future construction. After an hour of discussion in closed session, the board decided to continue negotiating for a price not to exceed ...Read more, add a comment »
Edgerton middle school might cut reading
Posted by STACY VOGEL on March 10, 2008
Edgerton Middle School would cut reading class starting in 2009-10 under a plan Principal Jerry Roth proposed to the school board tonight. Roth was charged with recommending a way to cut $160,000 from staff budgets at the middle school. The entire district needs to cut $500,000 in staff in 2009-10 ...Read more, view comments (15) »
Janesville teacher contract talks go late
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on March 10, 2008
JANESVILLE—Negotiators for the Janesville School Board and teachers were still bargaining at 8:30 p.m. today, well past their scheduled time. Negotiators for the teachers, who appeared to be waiting for the other side to finish caucusing tonight at the Educational Services Center, would not comment. Negotiators bargained all day Saturday ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Doyle proposes hospital tax, other cuts to balance Wis. budget
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 10, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Gov. Jim Doyle is proposing a tax on hospital profits, a transportation fund transfer and other cost-saving measures to deal with a $527 million state budget shortfall. His plan does not have the backing of the Republican leader of the state Assembly. And the Democratic leader ...Read more, view comments (10) »
Monitoring group says attack ad denigrates Wisconsin judges
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 10, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - An independent group monitoring the increasingly heated state Supreme Court race says a recent television ad denigrates judges and is unfair to one of the candidates. The ad attacks Burnett County Circuit Judge Michael Gableman. The ad by the liberal Greater Wisconsin Committee says Gableman takes ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Movie crew remakes Columbus
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 10, 2008
COLUMBUS, Wis. (AP) - Set contractors are busy remodeling downtown Columbus for the movie ``Public Enemies,'' which is expected to start shooting next week. They're making alterations to some stores to fit the movie about bank robber John Dillinger, starring Johnny Depp and Christian Bale. Director and University of Wisconsin ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Gableman, Butler clash at Supreme Court election forum
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 10, 2008
DODGEVILLE, Wis. (AP) - Burnett County Judge Michael Gableman says the reason he decided to run for the state Supreme Court is because he saw a pattern of decisions influenced by personal opinion. At a forum in Dodgeville yesterday, Gableman said he would apply the plain language of the law. ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Possible school make-up days proposed
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on March 10, 2008
JANESVILLE—The Janesville School District administration is considering holding school on April 12 and April 26, both Saturdays. The days would make up for two days when school was called off because of weather this school year. Those dates are not certain, however, according to a March 7 memo from Superintendent ...Read more, view comments (52) »
New Glarus Brewing building 2nd brewery
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 10, 2008
NEW GLARUS, Wis. (AP) - New Glarus Brewing Company is an exception to the rule. As larger brewers consolidate or trim operations, New Glarus Brewing continues to grow and is building a second brewery. As the original facility, the new $20 million brewery will be located in New Glarus, population ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Man due in court on charges of beating infant son to death
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 10, 2008
MONROE, Wis. (AP) - A Brodhead man is due in court today on charges of beating one of his twin 2-month-old sons to death and injuring the other one. Thirty-two-year-old Casey Shelton is scheduled for a status conference this morning in Green County. Shelton is accused of shaking one twin ...Read more, view comments (14) »
Bill expected to increase number of Wisconsin organ donors
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 09, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) – A bill which recently received final legislative approval is expected to increase the number of people who pledge to be donors and boost the number of actual donors, the director of University of Wisconsin Hospital’s organ recovery service says. “It allows people who make their wishes ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Underage drinker plows through crowd outside Milwaukee nightclub
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on March 09, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) – An 18-year-old Milwaukee woman was arrested early Sunday for allegedly driving her car into a crowd outside a north side nightclub, police said. Capt. Michael Young said the incident near Club Onyx took place about 1 a.m. An officer who was enforcing parking violations in the area ...Read more, view comments (8) »
Hales Corners girl wins Badger State Spelling Bee
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 09, 2008
MONONA, Wis. (AP) – Fourteen-year-old Kara Walla of Hales Corners won the 2008 Badger State Spelling Bee to advance to the national bee, in which both her father and an aunt previously participated. The teenager who is home-schooled by her parents with her four siblings finished first at Monona Grove ...Read more, add a comment »
Negotiators mum on Janesville teachers contract talks
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on March 08, 2008
JANESVILLE--Negotiators for the Janesville School Board and the teachers’ union plan to continue contract negotiations Monday, Superintendent Tom Evert said. Negotiators were saying very little after a marathon bargaining session from 8 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Saturday at the District Office. Evert would not comment on specifics, but said the ...Read more, add a comment »
UPDATE: Janesville man's injuries not life-threatening in Interstate crash
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on March 08, 2008
FULTON TOWNSHIP--A Janesville man received non life-threatening injuries when he crashed into a guardrail on Interstate 90/39 and ended up in the Rock River on Saturday morning. An Edgerton man helped the injured man out of the icy water. Richard A. Yate, 67, crashed his white Chevrolet Lumina car into ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Janesville teacher contract talks continue
Posted by GAZETTE GAZETTE on March 08, 2008
JANESVILLE--Negotiations over the Janesville Education Association contract will continue all afternoon, the teachers' co-lead negotiator, Dave Parr told The Janesville Gazette. Negotiations began at 8 a.m. Parr said talks would likely wrap up around 6 p.m., "whether we're done or not." Parr previously said issues on the table today would ...Read more, add a comment »
Man hospitalized after Interstate crash
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on March 08, 2008
MILTON TOWNSHIP--A man has been transported to Edgerton Hospital after he jumped in the Rock River following a crash at the 162 mile marker on Interstate 90/39 around 10 a.m. today. The Wisconsin State Patrol is investigating the crash, and no information is available at this time. Dispatchers reported the ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Security guards charged with thefts from stores at Madison mall
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 08, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) – Two former security guards at Madison’s East Towne Mall face charges accusing them of burglarizing several businesses there during their shifts last year. Randolph Coleman and Kyle Engen, both 22, were both charged with five counts of burglary. Coleman’s girlfriend, 21-year-old Amber Joyce, was charged with ...Read more, view comments (10) »
Jury finds man guilty in fatal shooting of Kenosha deputy
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 07, 2008
RACINE, Wis. (AP) – A jury found a Kenosha man guilty Friday of killing a sheriff’s deputy, rejecting his lawyer’s argument that the defendant was too drunk to form the intent to commit murder. Ezequiel Lopez-Quintero, 45, was convicted of first-degree intentional homicide in the shooting of 48-year-old Kenosha County ...Read more, view comments (9) »
Wis. woman jailed after reporting rape will now be freed
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 07, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) – A Madison woman will be freed after she spent two months in jail for probation violations after she reported being raped to police. Lorraine Cook says she was raped by an acquaintance in early January. She was arrested after she told her story to police because ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Sports Illustrated to publish special Favre edition
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 07, 2008
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) - Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre is going back on the cover of Sports Illustrated - this time for a commemorative special edition that hits newsstands and book stores Monday. The magazine says the 84-page tribute will honor Favre's career following his retirement this week ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Teacher contract talks confirmed
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on March 07, 2008
JANESVILLE—Negotiators for the Janesville public school teacher and school board will meet Saturday in another effort to reach a voluntary settlement to the 2008-09 contract. The meeting was not confirmed in time for The Janesville Gazette’s publishing deadline this morning, but Superintendent Tom Evert and Janesville Education Association co-lead negotiator ...Read more, view comments (2) »
New superintendent named in Milton
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on March 07, 2008
From Milton School Board President Sue Johnson: The Milton Board of Education is pleased to announce that Bernard Nikolay has accepted the position of superintendent, effective July 1, 2008. Mr. Nikolay will replace the current superintendent, Peg Ekedahl, who will be retiring at the end of June. Mr. Nikolay’s contract ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Janesville squad car involved in chase and crash
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on March 07, 2008
JANESVILLE A police squad car crashed into a fleeing vehicle after chasing it at 60 mph the wrong way on Court Street early today. The crash caused minor damage to both vehicles, Lt. John Olsen said. At about 1 a.m., officer Shawn Welte saw a Dodge Neon turn east off ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Weekend negotiations for Janesville teacher contracts
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on March 07, 2008
Negotiations between the Janesville Education Association and school board are the most contentious and difficult Superintendent Tom Evert and School Board negotiator Dennis Vechinsky have seen. Evert's been involved with negotiations in three districts: Sheboygan, Beloit and Janesville. He says the negotiations are creating a rift and that's very unfortunate. ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Favres to take a year off from doing charitable events
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 07, 2008
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) - Brett Favre saw some of his career highlights shown on TV since news of his retirement came out earlier this week, and it gave him a funny feeling -- like he was almost being eulogized. When Favre returned from his Mississippi home and met the ...Read more, add a comment »
Beloit College president resigns
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on March 06, 2008
Beloit College officials are forming a plan to replace president John Burris after he announced his resignation Thursday. College spokesman Ron Nief says the resignation was unanticipated. Burris will become the president of the Burroughs Wellcome Fund, a private foundation in North Carolina. Nief says a search firm will conduct ...Read more, add a comment »
UW System debates using tuition for financial aid
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 06, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) – University of Wisconsin System officials are considering the merits of charging students from well-off families higher tuition to subsidize their lower-income peers. The Board of Regents debated the issue Thursday as part of a wide-ranging discussion on tuition and financial aid. The board did not take ...Read more, view comments (6) »
Bill attempts to regulate issue ads in Wisconsin elections
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 06, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Groups that run issue ads within 60 days of an election would be subject to the same disclosure requirements as candidates under a bill that passed the Senate. The bill would require them to reveal their funding sources and how much they spend. There is a ...Read more, add a comment »
Favre confirms retirement
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 06, 2008
A teary Brett Favre made it official. He's retired. The star Packers quarterback choked up as he said that he's retiring from the NFL and the Packers. He says: ``It was never about the money or fame or records.'' That's his message Thursday at a news conference at Lambeau Field ...Read more, view comments (22) »
Democrats, Republicans get in shouting match at news conference
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 06, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Two Democratic lawmakers, including the Senate majority leader, got in a shouting match with Republicans at a news conference outside the Senate chamber on Thursday. Five Republican lawmakers called the news conference to urge Senate Democrats to allow a vote on a proposed constitutional amendment to ...Read more, view comments (29) »
Favre's mother says family has mixed emotions
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 06, 2008
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) - Brett Favre's mother says today's news conference in Green Bay could be emotional for her son. Bonita Favre says that when you think about what Brett leaves behind and how many years he's been playing, it's got to be tough. Favre's family wasn't exactly surprised ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Candidate convicted of three misdemeanors
Posted by MARCIA NELESEN on March 06, 2008
JANESVILLE A criminal check of the six candidates running for Janesville City Council showed that one, Kelly O’Brien, has three misdemeanor convictions. The last was more than eight years ago. “That was in my 20s,” O’Brien, 33, said in responding to the incidents. “You live and learn. There’s not one ...Read more, view comments (44) »
Town of Beloit police make arrest for sexual assault of a child
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on March 06, 2008
BELOIT TOWNSHIP — A 19-year-old is being held at the Rock County Jail on sexual assault charges for what Town of Beloit Police call a "casual dating relationship" with a 14-year-old girl. Detective Chris Luzinski says Logan D. Ferguson was arrested for two counts of second degree sexual assault of ...Read more, view comments (10) »
Assembly approves fire-safe cigarettes
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 06, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - All cigarettes sold in Wisconsin would have to be the type that automatically extinguish when they're not being smoked under a bill the state Assembly passed last night. Wisconsin would join 22 other states in requiring that only fire-safe cigarettes be sold should the bill also ...Read more, add a comment »
Beating death charges delayed
Posted by MIKE HEINE on March 05, 2008
ELKHORN—The lone suspect in a beating death case out of Bloomfield Township will not be charged for at least two weeks. District Attorney Phil Koss said the autopsy reports for the late David J. Newer, 57, were not completed as hoped. Suspect Jacob D. Newer, David's son, could potentially be ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Favre to hold news conference Thursday morning
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 05, 2008
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) - The Green Bay Packers say Brett Favre is preparing to address the media. The quarterback is scheduled to hold a news conference Thursday morning at team headquarters. His wife Deanna is also scheduled to attend. Favre told Packers coach Mike McCarthy of his plans to ...Read more, view comments (7) »
American Axle says talks to resume with striking UAW workers
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 05, 2008
DETROIT (AP) - A key auto parts supplier says it will resume talks tomorrow with striking members of the United Auto Workers. Workers at American Axle and Manufacturing Holdings Inc. went on strike February 26th. The strike has caused General Motors Corp. to announce it would temporarily close six plants, ...Read more, add a comment »
Legislature unlikely to pass health care reforms this year
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 05, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - Despite all the rhetoric about how health care was a major issue for the Legislature to tackle this year, it appears unlikely any major initiatives will pass before the end of the session next week. Senate Democrats pushing a universal health care plan never got the ...Read more, add a comment »
Fearing higher prices, people buying Favre memorabilia
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 05, 2008
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) - Store owners say the sudden retirement of Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre has boosted demand for his autographed memorabilia like footballs, pictures and helmets. They expect some spike in prices but it's too soon to tell how much - and when. The owner of ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Watch Bush/McCain meeting
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 05, 2008
Click here to watch live coverage of President Bush meeting with GOP Presidential Candidate John McCain at The White House. The meeting is scheduled to begin at 12:15 Central time. You can also hear it LIVE on WCLO 1230 AM.Read more, add a comment »
Investigators on the priest slaying 10 years later
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 05, 2008
DANE, Wis. (AP) - Detectives think they know who murdered a priest at a church in Dane 10 years ago. But they've never been able to collect enough evidence to prosecute. On March 4, 1998 the Reverend Alfred Kunz was found lying in a pool of blood at St. Michael ...Read more, add a comment »
Robson: Bills will reduce Rock County Jail overcrowding
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on March 05, 2008
Two bills headed to the state Assembly could ease jail overcrowding in Rock County. State Senator Judy Robson of Beloit says the chair of the Judiciary Committee held a hearing at Blackhawk Technical College, took a tour of the jail and spoke with the county sheriff. Robson says the bills ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Clinton keeps talking referendum details
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on March 05, 2008
CLINTON--The Clinton School Board on Tuesday voted to keep working on a proposed November referendum. Staff and the architects are still crunching numbers, but news was good for taxpayers Tuesday night. If the district chooses to install geothermal energy at Clinton Elementary, 301 East St., Clinton, it will be cheaper ...Read more, add a comment »
Watch Packers news conference
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on March 04, 2008
Green Bay Packers quarterback Brett Favre has decided to retire from the NFL after 17 seasons. We will have LIVE video coverage of a Green Bay Packers news conference at 3:00. Favre is not expected to attend. Click here to watch the press conference. You can also listen live ...Read more, add a comment »
Dungeons & Dragons co-creator Gary Gygax dies at 69
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 04, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) - The man who co-created the game Dungeons & Dragons and helped start the role-playing phenomenon is dead. Gary Gygax died this morning at his home in Lake Geneva. His wife, Gail Gygax, says he had been suffering from health problems for several years, including an abdominal aneurysm. ...Read more, view comments (2) »
JPD looking for possible counterfeiter
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on March 04, 2008
From the Janesville Police Department: The Janesville Police Department is seeking information concerning the identity of a suspect in the passing of counterfeit $100.00 bills. The police department is investigating 6 incidents, since January, of the passing or attempted passing of counterfeit $100 bills. It is suspected ...
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Committee sends Wisconsin smoking ban bill to full Assembly
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 04, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) - An Assembly committee has voted 6-3 Tuesday to send a proposed smoking ban to the full Assembly. But committee chairman Rep. J.A. ``Doc'' Hines of Oxford says there's still no compromise in place to appease those who want to delay the ban's start in taverns. Hines ...Read more, view comments (13) »
Favre will retire after 17 NFL seasons with Packers
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 04, 2008
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) - FOX Sports and ESPN.com are reporting that Packers quarterback Brett Favre will not return for an 18th NFL season. Favre told Packers coach Mike McCarthy that he will retire. That's according to ESPN.com, who talked to Favre's agent Bus Cook. Only two years removed from ...Read more, view comments (19) »
Low-land flooding and standing water reported in Rock County
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on March 04, 2008
The Rock County Highway Department has reported some low-land flooding, according to the county 911 dispatch center this morning. Water was over the roadways mostly on Highway 14, east of Janesville, around the Emerald Grove and Kemp Road areas. Elsewhere, there was standing water at Highway 14 at the Rock/Walworth ...Read more, add a comment »
Sheriff Spoden proposes a motorcycle patrol
Posted by STEVE BENTON on March 04, 2008
ROCK COUNTY — A couple Rock County Sheriff's Deputies may be adding some leather to their duty wardrobe this spring. Sheriff Bob Spoden wants to put a Harley on the road. He says the motorcycle will add a new dimension to patrolling capabilities and can serve as an escort vehicle ...Read more, view comments (24) »
Parker vs. Craig tickets to go on sale
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on March 03, 2008
JANESVILLE -- Parker and Craig high schools will sell tickets for the Parker-versus-Craig girls basketball sectional semi-final game, set for 6 p.m. Friday at Wilmot Union High School. Tickets will be available through the athletic offices at the two schools from 7:45 a.m. until 4 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday. Tickets ...Read more, view comments (22) »
Regents to look into affordability of UW education
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 03, 2008
UNDATED (AP) - The affordability of a state university education is on the agenda of the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents this week. System spokesman David Giroux says the good news is that the university is reasonably affordable. But he says the bad news is that is doesn't offer ...Read more, view comments (2) »
County may review options for fairgrounds
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on March 03, 2008
The Rock County Agriculture and Extension Education Committee on Wednesday will authorize the county’s planning department to come up with options for a future fairgrounds expansion, committee Chairman Neil Deupree said. Duepree will call a special committee meeting at the end of March to review the options, he said. At ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Opening arguments begin in trial of man accused of killing deputy
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 03, 2008
RACINE, Wis. (AP) - The defense for a man accused of killing a Kenosha County sheriff's deputy during a routine traffic stop says he was drunk and shouldn't be found guilty. Defense attorney Frederick Cohn says in opening arguments Monday he won't dispute that Ezequiel Lopez-Quintero was driving the van ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Walworth County Board forum tonight
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on March 03, 2008
LAKE GENEVA--A forum for candidates for Walworth County Board is tonight at Hawk's View Golf Club, 7377 Krueger Road. The forum is sponsored by the Lakes Area Realtors Association, M&I Bank in Delavan and Lake Geneva and Southeastern Wisconsin Title. Royce DeBow, government affairs director for the Wisconsin Realtors Association, ...Read more, add a comment »
Janesville's Case Feed building could be torn down
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on March 03, 2008
JANESVILLE — One of Janesville's oldest buildings could be torn down in April if the owner doesn't contact the city or repair it. Building and Development Services Manager Gale Price says the city will be sending a "raze or repair" order to the owner this week. That notice gives the ...Read more, view comments (10) »
Winter weather update
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 03, 2008
From the National Weather Service: A winter weather advisory remains in effect until noon today. Areas of rain will change to a mixture of sleet and snow early this morning before changing to all snow. Up to 2 inches of snow is expected before the snow diminishes by noon. Visibilities ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Madison man dies in marathon
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 02, 2008
LITTLE ROCK – Marathon officials in Arkansas say a Wisconsin man has collapsed and died after completing the 26.2-mile race. According to race officials, 27-year-old Adam Nickel of Madison was pronounced dead late Sunday morning near the finish line. Emergency personnel tried to revive Nickel until an ambulance arrived with ...Read more, view comments (6) »
Avoid Wis. River bridge, Patrol says
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on March 02, 2008
The Wisconsin State Patrol is asking travelers to avoid the eastbound (southbound) lanes of the Wisconsin River bridge on Interstate 90/39/94 near Poynette. “Due to the warming weather, the metal braces on the Wisconsin River bridge eastbound have erupted above road level, making it hazardous to vehicles trying to drive ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Winter weather advisory issued
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 02, 2008
The National Weather Service in Milwaukee has issued a winter weather advisory, which is in effect from 3:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Monday. Areas of rain ahead of a cold front will change to a mixture of freezing rain, sleet and snow late tonight as the front passes. The mixed ...Read more, view comments (4) »
FBI investigated Max McGee
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 02, 2008
MADISON – The man who scored the first touchdown in Super Bowl history was investigated for illegal gambling by the FBI. The FBI investigated Green Bay Packers great Max McGee for several months in late 1972 through September 1973, after his playing career was over, according to records released to ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Overdue books bring jail time
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 02, 2008
BELOIT – Keely Givhan of Beloit spent six days in the Rock County Jail last fall for failing to return overdue library books. When officers pulled her over for a traffic violation, they discovered a warrant had been issued for her arrest because she failed to appear in court for ...Read more, view comments (33) »
Fewer women hold public office
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 02, 2008
MILWAUKEE – A new study shows that the number of women serving on city councils, school boards and other governmental bodies throughout Wisconsin has declined slightly during the last two years. The Wisconsin Women’s Council study shows 1,969 women who are elected officials, compared with 1,979 two years ago. The ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Rescued colt dies 'peacefully'
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 02, 2008
SOUTH RANGE – A 9-month-old colt that had been rescued from the brutal cold has died. The colt, named Windchill, died Friday night near Superior. Windchill’s recovery had captured the attention of thousands of people over the last three weeks. The Tennessee Walking Horse-Appaloosa mix was rescued Feb. 9, a ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Truck, train collide in Waukesha
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 01, 2008
WAUKESHA – A 72-year-old semitrailer truck driver escaped injury Saturday in the crash of a collision with a freight train, police said. Lt. William Graham said the collision severely damaged the train engine and sent precast concrete from the truck onto College Avenue. The semi driver was delivering the load ...Read more, add a comment »
State pensions to increase
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on March 01, 2008
MADISON – The state Department of Employee Trust Funds has set pension increases for approximately 141,000 retired state and local government employees covered under the Wisconsin Retirement System. The department says the core annuity dividend will be 6.6 percent starting May 1st, while the variable annuity will not change. All ...Read more, view comment (1) »
2 hurt in crash near Orfordville
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on March 01, 2008
ORFORDVILLE -- A 6-year-old girl survived after falling out of a sport-utility vehicle as it rolled over in a one-vehicle crash around 9:30 p.m. Friday, the Rock County Sheriff’s Department reports. The girl and the driver, 29 year-old Tina L. Heinle of Orfordville, were treated for non-life threatening injuries at ...Read more, view comments (9) »
