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Hunting death believed to be from natural causes
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 30, 2008
NEILLSVILLE, Wis. (AP) — Authorities in Clark County are investigating after a 54-year-old Hortonville man died while hunting. Clark County Chief Deputy James Backus says Bla Yao Vang was pronounced dead at the scene Saturday morning after a family member found him unresponsive. Backus says authorities have concluded initially that ...Read more, add a comment »
Winter storm warning update
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on November 30, 2008
Gas for the snow blower. Check. Long johns clean and washed. Check. Matching—or almost matching— mittens. Check. Now you’re ready for the 6 inches to 10 inches of snow that’s on its way. The National Weather Service in Sullivan has updated its winter storm warning for Rock County and the ...Read more, view comments (13) »
Thief robs Wisconsin woman of Thanksgiving dinner
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 30, 2008
OREGON, Wis. (AP) — A Dane County family found it hard to be thankful after a thief made off with their turkey dinner. Lillian Moore of Oregon says she sent a cooler stuffed with Thanksgiving food to her daughter Cindy, only to have it stolen from her porch. Moore packed ...Read more, view comments (9) »
Janesville native gives best effort in war on foreclosures
Posted by MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE on November 30, 2008
Nov. 30--WASHINGTON -- When Steve Preston took over as secretary of the Department of Housing and Urban Development this summer, he inherited an agency tainted with scandal at a time of intense turmoil in the housing market. The Janesville native had no previous housing experience and little time to learn ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Welcome to winter: Snow advisory issued for area.
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on November 29, 2008
Winter is on its way. Dust off those shovels, stretch your back and get ready to grin and bear it until March. The National Weather Service in Sullivan has issued a winter weather advisory starting at noon Sunday and continuing through 6 a.m. Monday for Rock, Walworth, Jefferson, Green, Dodge, ...Read more, view comments (36) »
Doyle to meet with Obama
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 29, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Governor Jim Doyle is scheduled to discuss the economy next week with President-elect Barack Obama and Vice President-elect Joe Biden. The meetings will be Monday and Tuesday in Philadelphia, where governors from across the country will convene with the incoming administration. Doyle has scheduled a conference ...Read more, view comments (10) »
120 calves lost in Plymouth barn fire
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 29, 2008
PLYMOUTH, Wis. (AP) — A Sheboygan County barn fire has killed 120 calves and one cow. In a news release, sheriff’s Sgt. Blaine Spicer says fire and sheriff’s officials found two barns and a machine shed fully engulfed in flames in the Town of Plymouth around 11:40 p.m. Friday. One ...Read more, view comments (10) »
In his head or in his foot? Packer punter a sore subject
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 28, 2008
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — With punter Derrick Frost’s struggles rapidly becoming Mike McCarthy’s least-favorite press-conference topic, the Green Bay Packer coach did his best Friday to make light of the fact that Frost continues to punt well in practice and pregame warm-ups but not in games. “I hope he ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Leftover turkeys: Farmers keep busy after the big day
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 28, 2008
METHUEN, Mass. (AP) — You’d think a turkey farmer would get a day off once the Thanksgiving bird reaches the table. Jim Rischer gets something far less — at best. “I try to work a half-day instead of a full day,” said the patriarch of the family that owns Raymond’s ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Black Friday deals get mixed reception
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 28, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) — Shirley Jackson arrived at Wal-Mart about 8 a.m. Friday hoping to snap up a 42-inch, high-definition Polaroid TV for $598. She missed out on the limited supplies but reacted philosophically, not with disappointment. “It’s just as well I didn’t get the TV. I have to focus on ...Read more, view comments (5) »
UW system considering halving raises
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 28, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) University of Wisconsin System President Kevin Reilly has halved his recommendation for faculty pay raises because of the growing financial strains on the state government. Reilly said he is recommending annual raises of 2.5 percent for faculty and staff rather than 5.2 percent to help address what ...Read more, view comments (7) »
One dead in Janesville crash
Posted by TED SULLIVAN on November 28, 2008
JANESVILLE --- One person died and four others were injured after a two-vehicle crash this afternoon at highways 51 and 11. A westbound pickup truck carrying three people and a southbound car carrying two people collided at about 2:15 p.m., Rock County sheriff’s officials said. Highway 11 west of Highway ...Read more, view comments (29) »
Miller Park sales-tax collection up
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 28, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) The Miller Park stadium district reports that sales-tax collections are 2.73 percent ahead of last year's pace. That's despite people spending less due to the lagging economy. District officials report sales-tax distribution totaled nearly $2.5 million through September. It's about 8 percent lower than the same period last ...Read more, add a comment »
Car splits in half after striking tree, injuring 3
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 28, 2008
SHEBOYGAN, Wis. (AP) An out-of-control car hit a tree and tore in half, sending two brothers to a hospital Thursday. Sheboygan County Sheriff's Lt. Mark Rupnik says the Ford Escort hit a tree and broke apart when the driver lost control on a curve in the Town of Sherman early ...Read more, view comments (9) »
Put on another sweater: Heating costs may rise
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 27, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) — Wall Street’s troubles may mean higher utility costs for Wisconsin consumers. Madison Gas & Electric Co. has asked the state Public Service Commission (PSC) for permission to raise electric rates to generate $2.5 million to offset losses in its pension fund. The PSC said no on Wednesday, ...Read more, view comments (14) »
Gypsy moth population on the rise
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 27, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The state reports a 32 percent increase in gypsy moths trapped in Wisconsin this year and that may mean more aerial spraying next year. The state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection says more than 385,500 male gypsy moths were caught in 2008, surpassing last ...Read more, add a comment »
Eight hospitalized after rural car-versus-tree crashes
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 27, 2008
Two drivers face charges.
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UPDATE: Armed robbery in residential Janesville neighborhood
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 27, 2008
Two pedestrians were robbed at gunpoint.
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Gas leak forces evacuation
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on November 26, 2008
SUN PRAIRIE—A four-block radius of Sun Prairie was evacuated Friday afternoon while utility companies searched a natural gas leak, WISC-TV reported. North Bristol Street near Highway 151 was closed and 14 businesses were evacuated. Travelers won’t be allowed down County N until after 6 p.m., but Highway 151 remains open. ...Read more, add a comment »
UW System looks for cuts
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 26, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The University of Wisconsin System will cut employee travel and look for other ways to save money, including possibly consolidating and eliminating unpopular academic programs, President Kevin Reilly said Wednesday. Reilly said he’s ordered chancellors who lead the state’s 13 four-year universities and 13 two-year colleges ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Menominee files temporary restraining order
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 26, 2008
KENOSHA, Wis. (AP) The Menominee Nation is making another attempt to keep the federal government from acting on its proposed casino in Kenosha. The tribe filed a motion for a temporary restraining order, asking the government to refrain from acting on the casino application while the tribe's suit against the ...Read more, add a comment »
Army awards $51 million contract to Oshkosh Corp.
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 26, 2008
OSHKOSH, Wis. (AP) The defense-related division of Oshkosh Corp. has been awarded a $51 million contract to provide armor upgrades for military vehicles. Oshkosh Defense said Wednesday the contract calls for 660 armor kits to protect a specific type of heavy Army truck. The company says the trucks have a ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Madison Repertory Theatre to lay off 6 employees
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 26, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) Madison's only professional theater company is laying off nearly half of its full-time staff. Madison Repertory Theatre Managing director, Julie Jensen, says ticket sales are down and raising money over the last several months has been difficult. Officials will lay off six of its 13 full-time administrative ...Read more, view comments (8) »
1 of 6 Wis banks post loss in the 3rd quarter
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 26, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) One of every six Wisconsin banks posted a loss in the third quarter. It shows communities large and small are feeling the effects of the housing slump, financial crisis and slowing economy. But it's better than banks nationally, with nearly one in four not making a profit in ...Read more, view comments (9) »
Racine company to close short of 100th anniversary
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 26, 2008
RACINE, Wis. (AP) Brannum Lumber will close next month — five months short of its 100th anniversary. Company president, Dale Anderson, says a funding shortfall in a Teamsters national pension fund, affecting just its two union employees, was the tipping point for the Racine construction supply company. Also, he says ...Read more, add a comment »
Florida firm to close Wis. marketing offices
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 26, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) A Florida-based vacation home company plans to close its sales and marketing offices in Wisconsin, cutting more than 150 jobs. The state Department of Workforce Development said Tuesday that Bluegreen Corp. of Boca Raton, Fla., has given notification that the employees in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin Dells and ...Read more, add a comment »
Janesville school buses to get seat belts
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on November 25, 2008
JANESVILLE -- The Janesville School Board voted Tuesday night to have seat belts installed on up to five new school buses in the coming year. The cost of including the three-point belts was estimated at $11,000 per bus. Because the buses belong to the Van Galder Bus Co., the district ...Read more, view comments (26) »
CWD found in hunting preserve
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 25, 2008
MADISON — Dozens of white-tailed deer on a hunting preserve in Portage County have been killed after one of them tested positive for chronic wasting disease. The state Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection said Tuesday that a 7-year-old doe shot in September at Alligator Creek Whitetails near Junction ...Read more, view comments (11) »
AAA Wisconsin: Fewer traveling for Thanksgiving
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 25, 2008
WAUSAU, Wis. (AP) — The weather is expected to be mostly good and gasoline prices are down dramatically so traveling to Grandma’s house for Thanksgiving should be easier. But AAA Wisconsin said Tuesday fewer people intend to do it. The auto club predicts 6.2 million people will travel at least ...Read more, add a comment »
Court upholds sentence in Wis. gang shooting
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 25, 2008
WAUSAU, Wis. (AP) A man was properly sentenced to 18 years in prison for his role in a gang-related shooting in western Wisconsin more than four years ago, a state appeals court ruled Tuesday. Teng Vang, 26, contended an Eau Claire County judge gave him a harsher sentence because Vang ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Milwaukee loses appeal in lead paint lawsuit
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 25, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) An appeals court on Tuesday rejected the city of Milwaukee's bid to force a former lead paint manufacturer to pay for the cleanup of 11,000 contaminated properties. The District 1 Court of Appeals ruled 2-1 the evidence was sufficient to uphold a jury's ruling that NL Industries ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Beloit house fire leaves a family homeless
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 25, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Beloit firefighters put out a house fire on the city's west side early Tuesday morning. The alarm sounded at 2:31 for the fire at 1216 Elm Street. The first units on the scene reported flames shooting out of the roof. A family of four, two adults ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Tallman House receives city funding
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 25, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Janesville citizens say without funding from the city, the Tallman House won't be able to function. The majority of the city council agrees. The council restored a $50,000 subsidy for the Tallman House's operating costs as it approved the city budget Monday night. Council member Tom ...Read more, view comments (10) »
Local credit union announces moratorium on foreclosures
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 25, 2008
From the WCLO Newsroom: A local credit union is implementing a temporary halt on foreclosures. Blackhawk Community Credit Union is sending letters to homeowners with first mortgages held by BHCCU that are in foreclosure and about to proceed to sheriff's sale. Vice President of Real Estate Services Al Herbst says ...Read more, view comments (15) »
At least 1 killed on slick roadways
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 24, 2008
KENOSHA, Wis. (AP) At least one person was killed when the season's first measurable snow fell during the morning commute in southeastern Wisconsin. Kenosha County Sheriff's Sgt. Gil Benn says a passenger in a sports utility vehicle died when the driver lost control and collided with a pickup on Highway ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Body found in vehicle in Kiwanis Pond
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 24, 2008
JANESVILLE—A Janesville Fire Department dive team pulled the body of an adult man from a vehicle in Kiwanis Pond about 10 a.m. today, said Tim Ehlers, fire department shift commander. A fisherman noticed a red sport utility vehicle in the water at the end of the fishing pier in the ...Read more, view comments (44) »
Milwaukee man shot, robbed in his home
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 24, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) Milwaukee police say a 24-year-old man was robbed and shot in the back during a home invasion Sunday night. The man was taken to a Milwaukee area hospital. Police say he was in stable condition Monday and his injuries are not life threatening. Police say three men entered ...Read more, view comments (12) »
Janesville man injured in crash
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 24, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: A two car collision Sunday afternoon results in critical injuries to one of the drivers. Janesville police responded to the accident around 5:30 at the intersection of Center and Walcott. Reports indicate a car driven by 18-year-old Nickolas Belfield pulled into oncoming traffic and collided with ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Public hearing on Janesville city budget
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 24, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: A public hearing is planned before the Janesville City Council votes on the 2009 budget Monday night. Acting City Manager Jay Winzenz says the more than $40 million spending plan represents a less than 2 percent increase for both the tax rate and levy. He calls ...Read more, add a comment »
Appleton man killed while hunting
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 23, 2008
BOVINA — A 48-year-old man from Appleton was fatally shot Sunday while hunting near the town of Bovina. The Outagamie County Sheriff’s office said in a news release that the incident happened at about 10:40 a.m. No other details were immediately available. The man’s name had not been released. In ...Read more, view comments (19) »
Snow by morning, forecasters say
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 23, 2008
JANESVILLE – Get out the windshield scrapers, and you might even need a shovel Monday morning. Snow accumulations of 1 to 2 inches are expected tonight in the Janesville area. A similar forecast is in effect to the east, in Walworth County. Rain is expected early tonight before switching to ...Read more, view comments (25) »
Hunters find body in Fond du Lac County
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 23, 2008
ASHFORD — Hunters in Fond du Lac County have found a body in the woods. Sheriff’s Lt. Rick Olig says the badly decomposed body was found about 9:17 a.m. Sunday off Skyline Drive in Ashford Township. He says the body hasn’t been identified, but the hunters who found it think ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Road work stops for T-week
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 23, 2008
MADISON — The Wisconsin Department of Transportation says it’s pausing all state construction projects to accommodate heavy traffic related to Thanksgiving and deer hunting this week. The DOT says there will be no lane restrictions due to construction on any interstate highway in Wisconsin during the Thanksgiving holiday period. In ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Good hunting conditions reported for deer hunt
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 23, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) Cold air and a lack of tracking snow greeted many Wisconsin hunters on the opening day of this year's regular nine-day deer hunting season. But despite that, the state Department of Natural Resources reported hunting conditions were nearly ideal Saturday. People working at many places that register ...Read more, view comments (3) »
No tow in the snow for Oshkosh area
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 22, 2008
OSHKOSH — Drivers who slide off the highways this winter could have to wait a while for a tow in the Oshkosh area. The Winnebago County Sheriff’s Department is banning tows from ditches and medians if they’re unsafe due to winter weather conditions. Sheriff’s Capt. John Matz says the ban ...Read more, view comments (7) »
UW-W football advances in playoffs
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 22, 2008
WHITEWATER — The UW-Whitewater’s defense recorded a season high six sacks and forced three fumbles to help the team win 37-7 over Saint John’s University Saturday in the first round of the NCAA Division III football playoffs. Saint John’s (8-3) scored on their first possession, with an 11-yard touchdown pass ...Read more, add a comment »
Janesville man convicted of eighth DUI
Posted by TED SULLIVAN on November 21, 2008
JANESVILLE—A Janesville man was convicted Friday of his eighth drunken-driving offense. Harold I. Holmes, 45, Janesville, was convicted of felony drunken driving in Rock County Court after a one-day jury trial, according to a Rock County District Attorney’s Office news release. Holmes’ blood-alcohol content was proven to be 0.297, according ...Read more, view comments (62) »
Prosecutor: Wife offered $4,000 to kill husband
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 21, 2008
STEVENS POINT, Wis. (AP) A woman offered another $4,000 to kill her husband, who survived despite being shot four times, authorities said Friday. Portage County District Attorney Tom Eagon said three people — Linda Dietze, 23, of Plover, Carlos Cummings, 25, of Stevens Point, and the victim's wife, Carla Glodowski, ...Read more, view comments (25) »
Power line proposal draws opposition
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 21, 2008
LA CROSSE, Wis. (AP) A proposal to build a major power line through southwestern Wisconsin and southeastern Minnesota meets with more public resistance. Eleven utilities, led by Minneapolis-based Xcel Energy, are backing the project called CapX 2020, saying it's necessary to meet growing energy demands. It includes three 345-kilovolt lines ...Read more, view comments (9) »
Fire destroys garage
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 21, 2008
JANESVILLE—Fire officials continue to investigate the cause of a garage fire Thursday night at 756 W. Happy Hollow Road. Four fire departments—Beloit Township, with the assistance of Orfordville, Turtle and South Beloit—responded to the scene at 11:29 p.m. The detached building, owned by James Stowers, was valued at $4,000 and ...Read more, add a comment »
Local bar and grill burglarized early today
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 21, 2008
JANESVILLE—An estimated $1,500 was stolen from video poker machines early today at the Three B’s Bar & Grill, 3333 N. County E. Rock County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the scene, at 4 a.m. Nobody was inside the business at the time of the forced entry, said Sgt. Jay Wood. ...Read more, view comments (18) »
Immigration officials arrest 11
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 21, 2008
KENOSHA, Wis. (AP) Federal agents say they've arrested 11 gang members in Kenosha who are illegal immigrants from Mexico. U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents worked with the state Department of Justice and local officers in making the arrests. The coordinated effort targeted members and associates of the Surenos 13 ...Read more, view comments (28) »
Rock County layoffs reach 10-year high
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 21, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: The number of laid-off workers in Rock County, resulting from employers notifying the state of lay-offs totaling 50-workers or more, is four-times higher this year compared to last. Southwest Wisconsin Workforce Development Director Bob Borremans says the number is at a 10-year record high. Borremans says ...Read more, view comments (9) »
County H reopens
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 20, 2008
County H between highways 11 and 14 has reopened after bridge replacement and road reconstruction, according to a news release from the Rock County Public Works Department.Read more, view comments (5) »
Appleton man must pay $3,000 quarterly water bill
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 20, 2008
APPLETON, Wis. (AP) Appleton officials say an 84-year-old man must pay a nearly $3,000 quarterly water bill for a home he hasn't lived in for more than a year. The Appleton Common Council voted unanimously Wednesday that Norm Beckman must pay the bill after a public works investigation found three ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Lottery says illegal pull-tabs cost Wis. millions
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 20, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) Illegal pull-tab games are costing the Wisconsin Lottery millions in revenue but an audit says prosecutors have been reluctant to charge their operators. An audit released Thursday found the Lottery's sales of pull-tab tickets fell to a low of $3.2 million in the budget year that ended ...Read more, view comments (18) »
Bankruptcy filings up 38 percent
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 20, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) More than 12,000 bankruptcy cases have been filed in U.S. Bankruptcy Court in the Eastern District of Wisconsin this year. That's a 38 percent increase through October of last year. The financial crisis leaving its mark on Wall Street is weighing heavily in Wisconsin as well. Through the ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Teen pleads insanity in bringing gun to school
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 20, 2008
BARRON, Wis. (AP) A 17-year-old Rice Lake student accused of bringing a gun to school to shoot someone has pleaded not guilty by reason of mental disease or defect. Barron County Circuit Judge James Babbitt has ruled there's enough evidence for Michael Millermon to go to trial. Babbitt ordered a ...Read more, view comments (26) »
Janesville offers Senior Center parking options
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 20, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Interested patrons at the Janesville Senior Center could learn Thursday what the city might do about the perceived shortage of parking spaces. Community Development Director Brad Cantrell says an early study indicated enough spaces might be available in the area of the center. An informational meeting ...Read more, view comments (2) »
High schools locked down for drug search
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on November 19, 2008
JANESVILLE – Officials locked students in classrooms this morning at both Craig and Parker high schools in conjunction with a drug-dog search of the parking lots. There was no immediate word on whether any illicit drugs were found. The schools were in a "soft lockdown," which means everyone stays in ...Read more, view comments (64) »
Wis. court upholds conviction in parents' deaths
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 19, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) A state appeals court has upheld an Elkhorn man's conviction in his parents' deaths. Prosecutors say Craig A. Swope killed his mother and stepfather in January 2004, stole their money and left their bodies to rot in their house. A jury convicted him of two counts of ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Court: Sheriffs must follow union rules
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 19, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) An appeals court says Wisconsin sheriffs must follow union rules when they assign deputies to transport state and federal prisoners. The District 2 Court of Appeals says Ozaukee County Sheriff Maury Straub does not have the constitutional power to ignore a collective bargaining agreement when putting together ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Father accused of killing son still critical
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 19, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) A Middleton father accused of killing his 12-year-old son before shooting himself remains hospitalized in critical condition Wednesday. Police have released no motive for the shooting. The two were found in a sport utility vehicle near a Madison park Tuesday. Kyle Dutter's grandfather, Kenneth Bach of Beloit, ...Read more, view comments (26) »
Waupaca County passes cell phone driving ban
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 19, 2008
WAUPACA, Wis. (AP) Using anything other than a hands-free cell phone while driving in Waupaca County will cost you. Board supervisor Jack Penney says the county is first in the state to pass a ban on cell phones while driving. The board set a $75 fine, but with court costs, ...Read more, view comments (18) »
Four teens injured in crash
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 19, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Four Janesville teens sustained injuries in a one car crash on Highway 51 at the Rock and Beloit town line around 3:30 Tuesday afternoon. The Rock County Sheriff's Department reports the car, driven by 18-year-old Krystal Rucks of Janesville, was driving at a high rate of ...Read more, view comments (83) »
Burglars strike two businesses
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 19, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Janesville police are investigating two burglaries that occurred early Wednesday morning within a half hour of each other. The alarm at Charlie's Place at 2020 Racine Street sounded first at about 3:30. While police were on the scene, an alarm at Little Caesar's at 5 South ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Woodman's planning new office building
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 19, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Woodman's Grocery store in Janesville may have a new office building soon. City Development Specialist Vicki Miller says the planning commission Monday night reviewed a site plan for a three story office building. Miller says Woodman's is planning to move their corporate offices into the building ...Read more, view comments (5) »
No clear solution for Clear Lake
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 18, 2008
There are too many unknown factors to determine what's best for dealing with Clear Lake's abnormally high water levels, a hydrogeology expert told Milton Township residents tonight. About 60 Clear Lake neighbors and town officials gathered to meet with Madeline Gotkowitz, associate professor with UW Extension’s Wisconsin Geological and Natural ...Read more, add a comment »
Man remains jailed in contract killing case
Posted by TED SULLIVAN on November 18, 2008
JANESVILLE -- The man accused of hiring a hit man to kill his estranged wife and her boyfriend must remain in jail while awaiting trial, a Rock County judge decided this afternoon. Joseph R. Chrislaw Sr. , 46, of 733 Kellogg Ave., No. 3, Janesville, asked the judge to reduce ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Obama commends Wis. governor at climate meeting
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 18, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) President-elect Barack Obama singled out Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle in a video address shown at a global warming summit in Los Angeles on Tuesday. Doyle is one of the co-hosts of the meeting, and is scheduled to speak and participate in a panel discussion on Wednesday. Obama ...Read more, view comments (10) »
Firefighters call union chief's resignation
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 18, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) Some local firefighters unions are calling for the resignation of the state union president over a racist comment regarding President-elect Barack Obama. Professional Fire Fighters of Wisconsin Local 311 president Joe Conway in Madison says Rick Gale admitted using a racial slur the day after Obama was elected ...Read more, add a comment »
Oshkosh Corp. expands in China
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 18, 2008
OSHKOSH, Wis. (AP) Oshkosh Corp., which makes specialty trucks and access equipment, broke ground Tuesday for a new manufacturing plant in Tianjin, China. The plant will be the first China-based manufacturing facility for Oshkosh Corp. and will produce aerial work platforms. Oshkosh Corp. chairman and chief executive officer Robert Bohn ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Superintendent search company hired
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on November 18, 2008
The Janesville School Board took more than an hour to interview representatives of a superintendent-search company before hiring that company Monday night. Hazard, Young, Attea & Associates of Glenview, Ill., also known as HYA, will conduct the search to replace Tom Evert, who plans to retire at the end of ...Read more, view comments (17) »
City services to be scrutinized for sustainability
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 18, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: The Sustainable Janesville Committee looks to start new "green" practices with city services before encouraging the public to start environmentally friendly programs. City Environmental Technician Lindsay Motl says the committee is considering feasible, fairly inexpensive alternatives and if those practices are implemented they'll study the savings. ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Judge enters race against Wisconsin chief justice
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 17, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) Sounding the same campaign themes that succeeded in the past two hotly contest Supreme Court elections, a Jefferson County judge announced his candidacy Monday. Judge Randy Koschnick, who will challenge Wisconsin Supreme Court Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson, said he was a judicial conservative and that his opponent ...Read more, view comments (8) »
Interstate traffic open in all directions
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 17, 2008
JANESVILLE--Traffic, in all directions of Interstate 90/39, is open after a one-vehicle rollover crash that happened shortly after 7:15 a.m. today. At least one person, who was ejected from the vehicle, was flown by helicopter to a nearby hospital. Another person was injuried. The Wisconsin State Patrol, Rock County Sheriff's ...Read more, view comments (8) »
Accident causes traffic slow down on Interstate
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 17, 2008
JANESVILLE—A one vehicle rollover is causing traffic to slow on Interstate 90/39 one mile north of the Rest Area, just south of Edgerton. Drivers, who do not want to be delayed, should take Exit 163 to Highway 59 if they are traveling east and get off at Exit 171 in ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Ground breaking for new Janesville hospital
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 17, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Construction officially begins Monday morning on a new hospital in Janesville. SSM Health Care of Wisconsin and Dean Health System are breaking ground for the new St. Mary’s Janesville Hospital. Dean and SSM Health Care announced construction of the 50-bed hospital and physician office complex last ...Read more, view comments (19) »
Police warn of warm-car thefts
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 17, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: A warm car could be a stolen car if you don't take precautions. Beloit Police say it's not uncommon for thieves to take advantage of unlocked cars left unattended while warming up. Sergeant Mark Franseen says the thefts happen every winter like clockwork. He recommends starting ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Body of missing Jackson County woman found
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 16, 2008
BLACK RIVER FALLS, Wis. (AP) — Murder charges are expected this week in the death of a Hatfield woman who had been missing since Nov. 7. Authorities in Jackson County say 27-year-old Alisha Sidie’s body was found late Saturday and her former husband has been arrested in her death. The ...Read more, view comments (8) »
Mayor wants officer to catch speeders
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 16, 2008
MONONA, Wis. (AP) — If Monona’s mayor has his way, a new police officer will focus only on speeders in this Madison suburb. Mayor Robb Kahl says the officer’s $77,000 salary and benefits package would be paid mostly through speeding tickets the person would write if the 2009 city budget ...Read more, view comments (21) »
House fire causes little damage
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 16, 2008
The Janesville Police Department is investigating a "relatively minor fire" that did $500 damage to property in a Janesville home Saturday night, said Craig Jones, shift commander with the Janesville Fire Department. The fire started in the basement of 514 Wells St., but officials were unable to determine what caused ...Read more, add a comment »
House fire reported in Janesville
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 15, 2008
The Janesville Fire Department is responding to a residential fire at 514 Wells St., a dispatcher from the Rock County Communications Center said. Officials responded to a call at 7:38 p.m. The house is showing smoke but is not engulfed, the dispatcher said. It appears everyone made it safely out ...Read more, view comments (7) »
120 shops will accept donated deer
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 15, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The numbers are in for this year’s deer donation program in Wisconsin. The Department of Natural Resources says 120 butcher shops in 53 counties are signed up to accept deer that hunters donate to food pantries. Program coordinator Laurie Fike says the numbers are down slightly ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Alleged head-butter faces criminal charge
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 15, 2008
SHEBOYGAN, Wis. (AP) — A Sheboygan man faces a misdemeanor battery charge for allegedly head-butting another man when they got in a dispute over rough play in a pick-up basketball game. The criminal complaint filed Friday in Sheboygan County Circuit Court said 28-year-old Seth Dodge and the other man, also ...Read more, view comments (15) »
Woman killed in Milwaukee mall parking lot
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 14, 2008
GREENDALE, Wis. (AP) — An SUV went out of control in the parking lot of a suburban Milwaukee shopping mall, hit several vehicles and ran into a family group, killing a grandmother and injuring two children. Greendale Police Chief Robert Dams said the woman driving the sports utility vehicle claimed ...Read more, view comments (24) »
More Madison students sick with norovirus
Posted by MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE on November 14, 2008
Nov. 14--The University of Wisconsin-Madison is warning students to take extra hand-washing precautions after discovering dozens of students in some sorority and fraternity houses are getting sick. The university already was monitoring dozens of students who live in the same UW residence hall who became ill with symptoms of gastroenteritis ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Wis. Democrats say first bill will increase wages
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 14, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) Increasing the state minimum wage will be the first bill introduced next year in the Wisconsin state Senate. Senate Majority Leader Russ Decker said Friday the proposal will increase the current hourly wage from $6.50 to $7.60. The wage would then increase annually based on inflation. A ...Read more, view comments (64) »
Doyle contacted by Obama transition team
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 14, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) Gov. Jim Doyle has been contacted by President-elect Barack Obama's transition team. Doyle's spokesman Lee Sensenbrenner said Friday that Doyle was contacted recently by Obama's team, but Sensenbrenner didn't provide further details. Sensenbrenner says Doyle was out of Wisconsin Friday on a trip unrelated to state business. ...Read more, view comments (31) »
Beloit fire injures five year old child
Posted by STEVE BENTON on November 14, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: BELOIT — A five year old child is being treated for severe burns at the Burn Center in Milwaukee following a duplex fire in Beloit early Friday morning. Beloit Fire Department Deputy Chief Bryan Northrop says they responded to 1310 Copeland Avenue on the city's east ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Man convicted of shooting at officer
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 14, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) A Madison man has been convicted of attempted murder for shooting at a police officer during a foot chase. A jury returned the verdict against Rashee Jones late Thursday night. Jones fired two gunshots at Town of Madison Officer Michael Froseth after running from a car during ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Company campaigns help United Way
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 14, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Company campaigns help boost the United Way of North Rock County annual fund drive. The United Way campaign has topped $550,000, or 41% of this year's $1.35 million goal. Since the campaign kicked off in mid September, employee workplace campaigns have gotten underway in more than ...Read more, add a comment »
Shooting victim played dead so gunman would leave
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 13, 2008
MINERAL POINT, Wis. (AP) A rural Mineral Point man survived by playing dead after an attacker shot him and killed his brother. A criminal complaint filed in Iowa County says Charles Witzel Jr. went to his ex-girlfriend's home Nov. 6, hid in the basement and waited for her current boyfriend, ...Read more, view comments (32) »
Tyler Street to be closed Nov. 14-28
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 13, 2008
JANESVILLE--Tyler Street, from Main Street to Logan Street, will be closed to through traffic from 8 a.m. Friday, Nov. 14, through Friday, Nov. 28, for storm sewer construction. Local access to all residences within this section of the road, however, will be maintained during this time. Construction will provide improvements ...Read more, add a comment »
Sex offender released into Janesville neighborhood
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 13, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Janesville Police are warning residents living near the 1200 block of South Cherry Street a convicted sex offender will be living in their neighborhood. Deputy Police Chief David Moore says 27-year-old Richard Denson is being released Thursday from Rock Valley Community Corrections. Moore says neighbors were ...Read more, view comments (50) »
Higher fees for pool users
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 13, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Janesville's Rockport pool users will likely pay a little more for daily passes in 2009. Leisure Services Director Mike Williams says the city does not believe the Rockport pool fee increase, approximately $0.50 for youth and $0.50 for adults will receive a negative reaction from the ...Read more, view comments (12) »
State grants fund crack down on drunk driving
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 13, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: The Rock County Sheriff's Office has a few more dollars to work with in these tight economic times. The money actually comes from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation Bureau of transportation Safety in the form of two grants. The first worth $15,000 to help the sheriff's ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Sheridan selected Assembly speaker
Posted by JIM LEUTE on November 12, 2008
The first Democrat to be speaker of the state Assembly in 14 years will be Rep. Mike Sheridan of Janesville. Sheridan was chosen by his fellow Democrats in a secret vote on Wednesday. He defeated Rep. Jon Richards of Milwaukee. A four-year veteran of the Assembly, Sheridan is a former ...Read more, view comments (34) »
Rock County Board approves budget; saves $1.8 million for parks
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on November 12, 2008
JANESVILLE—The Rock County board this morning approved a $171.7 million budget for 2009. That sets the tax levy at $55.03 million, up from $53.4 million last year. The tax rate is down, though, to $5.38 from $5.46 last year. The board chose to set aside for parks and conservation projects ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Court upholds conviction in Wis. strangling death
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 12, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) An appeals court has upheld the murder conviction of a Wisconsin man serving a life sentence for strangling a woman to death. The District 2 Court of Appeals on Wednesday rejected an attempt by Thomas Blake of Neenah to withdraw his 2005 no-contest plea to first-degree intentional ...Read more, add a comment »
About 30 students sickened with norovirus
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 12, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) As many as 30 students at UW-Madison are sick with the norovirus. Many of the students live in the Sellery dormitory. Symptoms of norovirus illness usually include nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and some stomach cramping. Those affected can also have a low-grade fever, chills, headache, muscle aches and ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Computer virus may prompt audit
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 12, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: An audit may be performed to find out more about the shortcomings of the Janesville School District's computer system. The proposal comes after a virus caused a computer outage for many teachers and staff in the district. District officials say they tried to get by with ...Read more, view comments (18) »
Craig and Parker may close campus, for some
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 12, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Open campus at Janesville's two high schools could be coming to an end in the coming years. A proposal being drawn up by district officials would keep Craig freshmen on campus during lunch beginning next fall, and freshman and sophomores the following year. Parker may do ...Read more, view comments (78) »
The Rock County Job Center is busy
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 12, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: The Rock County Job Center has been busy. The job center is dealing with a 500% increase in the number of worker dislocations. Job Center Manager Shannon Moe tells WCLO's Stan Milam show a large portion of those dislocated workers come from lay-offs in the auto ...Read more, view comments (12) »
Council hires contractor for lake dredging
Posted by GINA DUWE on November 11, 2008
EVANSVILLE The Evansville City Council tonight hired Integrity Grading & Excavating of Schofield as contractor for the Lake Leota dredging project. The contractor was the lowest of six bidders at $885,069, well below the $2 million that voters approved spending last week. The council hired Vierbicher Associates for project management ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Milton police study recommends policy, organization improvements
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 11, 2008
An organizational review of the Milton Police Department made 54 recommendations for improvement. The report, released Friday and discussed at a special common council meeting Tuesday, said the department has good staff but needs to improve its management. The department lacks formal procedures and policies in many areas, the report ...Read more, add a comment »
Lake dredging bids well under $2 million
Posted by GINA DUWE on November 11, 2008
EVANSVILLE The dredging of Lake Leota could cost much less than the $2 million that voters approved spending last week. Officials opened the contractor bids for the project Monday, revealing the lowest bidder as Integrity Grading & Excavating at $885,069. At its special meeting Monday night, the public ...Read more, view comments (8) »
Wisconsin regulators say no to new power plant
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 11, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) State regulators have rejected a plan to build a new coal-fired power plant in southwestern Wisconsin. Alliant Energy subsidiary Wisconsin Power & Light has been working for months to win permission for the $1.3 billion plant in Cassville on the Mississippi River. The company says the plant ...Read more, view comments (19) »
Wis. woman who voted twice won't be prosecuted
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 11, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) A prosecutor who pursues voter fraud issues says he won't file charges against a woman who voted twice in last week's election. The Milwaukee woman said she voted absentee and in person at her neighborhood polling place on Nov. 4. Edna Byrd said she thought poll workers ...Read more, view comments (32) »
UW Health helps form coalition to fight drinking
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 11, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) A group of health care providers is forming a coalition to push for new laws to fight alcohol abuse. The All-Wisconsin Alcohol Risk Education coalition wants legislation to curb drunken driving and underage drinking and to force insurers to cover injuries caused by drunken driving. UW Health ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Inmate who attacked guards killed officers
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 11, 2008
FOX LAKE, Wis. (AP) The Fox Lake prison inmate accused of attacking two guards with a claw hammer was serving time for killing two police officers. State corrections officials say 50-year-old Terrance Davis attacked the guards Monday in the prison's furniture shop. Both guards needed medical attention and one was ...Read more, view comments (38) »
Motion hearings this week for Janesville triple homicide
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 11, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: A Janesville man accused of murdering Danyetta Lentz and her two teenage children in January 2007 is back in court this week. 49-year-old James Koepp faces three counts of first degree intentional homicide. The case appears before Rock County Judge Alan Bates on both Tuesday and ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Rock County Historical Society makes case for Tallman House
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 11, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: The Lincoln Tallman house is the top item citizens want to talk about when it comes to the Janesville city budget. 2009 marks the 200th anniversary of Abraham Lincoln's birth. Representatives from the Rock County Historical Society told the city council that event could bring in ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Sheridan still in running for Assembly post
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 10, 2008
MADISON — The race to become the next speaker of the Wisconsin Assembly is down to two. Reps. Pedro Colon and Fred Kessler, both of Milwaukee, dropped out on Monday and announced they are supporting fellow Milwaukee Rep. Jon Richards. Also running for the post is Rep. Mike Sheridan of ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Medical society says Wisconsin needs more doctors
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 10, 2008
WAUSAU, Wis. (AP) _ Wisconsin residents are waiting longer to see a doctor, and a physician shortage means the situation isn't likely to improve. That's according to the Wisconsin Medical Society, which is expected to release a new report on the matter Monday. The society says Wisconsin has 600 vacancies ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Students using vouchers exceed 20,000 in Milwaukee
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 10, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) The number of Milwaukee children using public money to attend private schools has reached an all-time high even as public school enrollment continues to drop. The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction says more than 20,000 students are now using vouchers to attend private schools. At the same time, ...Read more, view comments (7) »
UW student killed in Hong Kong
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 10, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) A University of Wisconsin-Madison student was struck and killed while studying abroad. Authorities say 21-year-old Kurt Leswing of Milwaukee was hit by a drunken driver in Hong Kong. The driver was arrested. Leswing was a senior business major traveling as part of the Semester at Sea program. ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Two lanes closed on West Court Street
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on November 10, 2008
Two eastbound lanes on West Court Street, from River Street to the bridge, are closed until Nov. 14. Traffic will be restricted to a single lane. Workers will be removing debris under the parking plaza.Read more, view comments (3) »
Winning lottery ticket sold in Sheboygan
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 10, 2008
SHEBOYGAN, Wis. (AP) _ Someone who bought a Megabucks lottery ticket in Sheboygan is a $9 million winner. The Wisconsin Lottery says the winning ticket in Saturday's drawing was purchased at the Q-Mart in Sheboygan. The winner can choose a lump sum payment of $5 million — or take 25 ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Janesville City Council to hear report on winter weather, snow removal
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 10, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: After a chilly weekend, the Janesville City Council will hear a report Monday on winter weather and snow removal. Part of the presentation includes the city's anti-icing strategies. Assistant Operations Director Mandy Bonneville says most anti-icing will take place later in the winter. Right now, pavement ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Janesville city budgets up for public discussion
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 10, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: A public hearing is scheduled Monday for Janesville's city and library budgets. The City Council is whittling its budgets, working to retain jobs, maintain services and avoid a tax increase. Under the proposed cuts, city employees will have to do without some training and travel to ...Read more, add a comment »
This must be Wisconsin: snowplow appreciation day scheduled
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 09, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — If anyone has any doubt winter is right around the corner, consider this: Snow plow appreciation day is Wednesday in Wisconsin. Gov. Jim Doyle proclaimed Wednesday as Snowplow Driver Appreciation Day. The day is meant to remind motorists, before any measurable snow has fallen, of the ...Read more, view comments (19) »
Stevens Point officer shoots, kills man
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 09, 2008
STEVENS POINT, Wis. (AP) — A Stevens Point police officer shot and killed a man after an altercation Saturday. Stevens Point Police Chief Jeff Morris said officers were responding to the report of a stolen vehicle when the suspect fled on foot. Morris said another officer spotted the suspect near ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Democrats reignite discussion of Wis. smoking ban
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 09, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) A statewide smoking ban that went up in smoke in the Legislature last year will likely be reignited when Democrats take control of the Assembly. Even though opposition to the ban came mostly from the powerful Tavern League lobby, Republican leaders in the Assembly did not actively ...Read more, view comments (30) »
Dane County, Madison working on 911 problems
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 08, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Dane County and Madison leaders have agreed to address systemic problems at the 911 center after multiple errors contributed to police not going to a disturbance that left a man dead. A report released Friday detailing what went wrong caps months of tension between Madison police ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Michigan may lead way for Wisconsin on medical marijuana
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on November 08, 2008
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsinites hoping to legalize medical marijuana are looking to Michigan to set an example. A Michigan proposition letting people with serious or terminal illnesses use marijuana with a doctor’s order passed with a two-thirds majority in Tuesday’s election. Michigan joins 12 other states allowing the ...Read more, view comments (46) »
Beloit College announces layoffs
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 08, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Beloit College is the latest Rock County organization to announce layoffs. Interim President Dick Niemiec announced the elimination of up to forty positions at a campus-wide meeting Friday. Spending restrictions and a hiring freeze are already in effect on campus. What the college calls an "employee ...Read more, view comments (13) »
Menominee sue US over proposed Kenosha casino
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 07, 2008
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — The Menominee tribe filed a lawsuit Friday claiming the U.S. Department of the Interior improperly changed the rules for approving its proposed off-reservation casino at Dairyland Greyhound Park in Kenosha. The tribes for the Beloit Casino Project filed a suit in January, claiming that new ...Read more, add a comment »
Scorned lover arrested after 2 fatal shootings
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 07, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Consumed with jealousy, a Loganville man plotted to kill his ex-girlfriend, gunned down two people and wounded two others before turning himself in, authorities said Friday. Charles Witzel Jr., 42, was arrested Friday at a Wal-Mart in Dodgeville. He faces charges of first-degree intentional homicide and ...Read more, view comments (8) »
GM reports $2.5B 3Q loss, says running out of cash
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 07, 2008
DETROIT, Mich. (AP) General Motors Corp. says it lost $2.5 billion in the third quarter and warned that it could run out of cash in 2009. GM also said it has suspended talks to acquire Chrysler. The automaker also said its cash burn for the quarter accelerated to $6.9 billion ...Read more, view comments (80) »
Lane closures to begin next week
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on November 07, 2008
JANESVILLE—Lane closures on West Court Street and North Main Street will begin next week for water main or storm sewer construction. The two south lanes on West Court Street, from Franklin Street to Linn Street, are scheduled to be closed to traffic beginning 8 a.m. Tuesday through Wednesday, Nov. 26 ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Fugitive in custody after another fatal shooting
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 07, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) The fugitive wanted in a Cross Plains homicide case is in custody after another fatal shooting in Iowa County. Charles Witzel walked into a Wal-Mart store in Dodgeville Friday morning and called police to surrender. Iowa County Sheriff Steven Michek said deputies were called to a Mineral ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Schools worry about staph infections
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 07, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: A potentially fatal, antibiotic resistant, Staph infection has gotten the attention of the Janesville School District manager of health services. Matt Hager says procedures regarding MRSA (or methicillin-resistant staphylococcus aureus) have been reviewed with educators. MRSA had been more commonly found in hospitals, but may now ...Read more, view comments (17) »
Gulity plea in murder case
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 07, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: A 19-year-old Beloit man faces up to 60 years in prison for an apparent gang-related drive-by shooting. The Rock County District Attorney's office says Carlos Salas pleaded guilty Thursday to fatally shooting Fernando Berrios-Linarez last February. Berrios-Linarez was a member of the Latin Kings, which was ...Read more, view comments (8) »
Ryan won't try for House minority leader's post
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 06, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) -- U.S. Rep. Paul Ryan announced Thursday he won't be a candidate for House minority leader after being asked by colleagues to lead Republicans in the next Congress. The Janesville congressman said his wife and three young children are his first priority, and after reflecting on the strain ...Read more, view comments (20) »
Regulators approve new Wisconsin area codes
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 06, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) New telephone customers in northern Wisconsin will get two new area codes. According to projections, the 715 area code will run out of numbers in 2011 and the 920 area code will run out in 2012. The Wisconsin Public Service Commission has been pondering whether to divide ...Read more, view comments (8) »
UDPATED: Traffic moving again on Interstate
Posted by GINA DUWE on November 06, 2008
Normal traffic flow has been restored after an accident in the northbound lanes of Interstate 90/39 south of the Rock River in Newville, according to a news release from the Wisconsin State Patrol. The car versus semitrailer accident was reported at 9:52 a.m., according to Rock County dispatch.Read more, view comments (6) »
Nonprofit reports more horses needing rescue
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 06, 2008
SPRING VALLEY, Wis. (AP) The troubled economy is hurting horses too. The Country Today reports a growing number of horses need rescue and care because their owners can no longer afford increasingly expensive hay and horse feed. Refuge Farms, Inc. in Spring Valley has helped rescue and find homes for ...Read more, view comments (6) »
Milton dog park construction begins
Posted by STAN STRICKER on November 06, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Pet owners in Milton will have a wide open space to take their dogs to play by Thanksgiving. City administrator Todd Schmidt says construction begins this week on the dog park project. Tree removal is beginning this week, with fences for both small and large dogs ...Read more, view comments (6) »
Plastic bag ban for Janesville?
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 06, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: The Sustainable Janesville Committee has plenty of ideas to reduce the use of plastic shopping bags. Committee Chairman Tom McDonald says his colleagues on the City Council have informally discussed the matter. He says the council cares about the environment and wants to help clean up ...Read more, view comments (91) »
MillerCoors cuts jobs after merger
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 05, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) — MillerCoors LLC said Wednesday it has cut 269 jobs so far as part of its efforts to save money. The joint venture between SABMiller’s U.S. unit and Molson Coors Brewing Co. said it was on track to cut $500 million in spending over the next three years, ...Read more, view comments (9) »
Dad sentenced for picking up kids while drunk
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 05, 2008
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) The De Pere father who was drunk when he picked up his children at day care has been sentenced to 18 months in prison. Prosecutors say Todd Hansford had a blood alcohol level of 0.25 when he arrived to pick up his two children from Growing ...Read more, view comments (30) »
Voters reject Kenosha smoking ban
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 05, 2008
KENOSHA, Wis. (AP) Voters in Kenosha are urging the City Council to reject a proposed ban on smoking in workplaces. Fifty-two percent of voters in an advisory referendum Tuesday voted against the smoking ban. A council committee deferred action on the proposal last August, sending the issue to a referendum. ...Read more, view comments (17) »
Rock County turnout not record-breaking
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 05, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Many Rock County voters cast ballots for this election but it was not a record-setting number. Rock County Clerk Lori Stottler says 66% of eligible voters turned out in this election compared to the record 70.6% in 2004. A few election computer glitches caused some headaches ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Firms interested in finding new Janesville superintendent
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 05, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: The Janesville School Board is closer to selecting a search firm and a new superintendent. Director of Human Services Steve Salerno says he contacted 13 search firms and five responded with proposals. Most of the firms are within Wisconsin, but a few are from the upper ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Democrats hold Wis. Senate, seize lead in Assembly
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 05, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) Democrats held onto their majority in the state Senate and appeared on their way to taking back control of the state Assembly after Tuesday's elections. The stakes were high: Gov. Jim Doyle is a Democrat, and if the party can gain control of both legislative chambers, it will ...Read more, add a comment »
7 US House incumbents in Wis. win re-election
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 04, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) Seven U.S. House members won re-election Tuesday, and the eighth one — a freshman Democrat from northeast Wisconsin — had the early lead against a familiar, well-financed opponent. Millionaire doctor Steve Kagan won his first run for public office two years ago, when he defeated former Assembly speaker ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Obama wins Wisconsin
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 04, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) Democrat Barack Obama defeated John McCain in Wisconsin, capturing 10 electoral votes in a state that has not gone for a Republican since 1984. Both candidates saw the state as winnable, but gave up campaigning about a month ago when polls showed Obama with a double-digit lead. ...Read more, view comments (143) »
Brewers bring back ex-manager Dale Sveum as coach
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 04, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) The Brewers hired Dale Sveum as hitting coach Tuesday, bringing back the interim manager who led Milwaukee to its first playoff berth in 26 years. Sveum had been a managerial candidate, but general manager Doug Melvin picked former Oakland Athletics skipper Ken Macha last week, citing a need ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Bomb threat forces polling site to relocate
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 04, 2008
MILWAUKEE (AP) — Police say a bomb threat at Middleton High School is forcing election workers to relocate the polling place. Police dispatcher Tim Hoeksema says high school officials received the threat shortly after 3 p.m. today. He says he doesn’t have details on the threat but it was serious ...Read more, view comments (13) »
Voting going smoothly statewide
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 04, 2008
Wisconsin voters faced lines of up to an hour on Tuesday, but election workers reported few serious problems. The longest lines came when polls opened at 7 a.m., poll observers said. The crush of voters who arrived early resulted in waits of up to an hour at some sites in ...Read more, view comments (3) »
7 absentee ballots challenged in Milwaukee
Posted by MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE on November 04, 2008
MILWAUKEE — Seven absentee ballots have been challenged in Milwaukee based on concerns about whether the voters are Wisconsin residents. Milwaukee Police Detective Mike Sandvick says he earlier discovered the discrepancies with the ballots while he was on duty, but he challenged them as a citizen because he’s off duty ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Wis. could see 50 percent jump in absentee voting
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 04, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) The number of absentee votes cast in this year's election in Wisconsin could be as much as 50 percent more than in the 2004 presidential race. That's according to Kevin Kennedy, director of the Government Accountability Board and the state's top election official. About 365,000 people cast ...Read more, view comments (3) »
UW-Whitewater student arrested on gun charges
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on November 04, 2008
WHITEWATER UW-Whitewater police just after 8 a.m. Tuesday arrested a student on charges of carrying a concealed weapon and possessing a firearm in a state building, according to a news release. Stephen D. Schuerr, 39, of Burlington was arrested without incident after police received information that he had been carrying ...Read more, view comments (34) »
Early voting may cause late night counting
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 04, 2008
WAUKESHA, Wis. (AP) _ Municipal clerks are expecting to work late for this general election because of the huge turnout for early voting. Absentee ballots are taken to the polls in the district where the voter lives and can be counted as soon as the polls open. But, Waukesha County ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Two UWW students recant sexual assault claims
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 04, 2008
From the WCLO Newsroom: University of Wisconsin-Whitewater police say two students who claimed to be sexually assaulted by strangers on campus have now recanted their stories. University Chief of Police Matthew Kiederlen says the first student claimed to be assaulted September 4 and completely recanted. The alleged victim says no ...Read more, view comments (15) »
Appeals court allows political ad
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 03, 2008
MADISON — A conservative-leaning political group can continue to run an ad accusing a Democratic Assembly candidate of supporting free health care for illegal aliens, a state appeals court ruled Monday. Mark Radcliffe of Black River Falls faces Republican Dan Hellman of Onalaska for an open Assembly seat in Tuesday’s ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Cocaine discovered at Milton Middle School
Posted by STACY VOGEL on November 03, 2008
Milton police discovered more than two grams of cocaine left "in an area generally only accessible to adults" at Milton Middle School, according to a note sent to parents Thursday from Principal Tim Schigur. The cocaine was found Friday, Oct. 3, but police didn't release details of what was found ...Read more, view comments (53) »
UW regents to discuss aging UW System work force
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 03, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A new report says the aging of the University of Wisconsin System work force will present a major challenge for the state in the next several years. The report says one out of three UW System faculty and academic staff members is 55 or older, compared ...Read more, add a comment »
Pumpkin perpetrator caught
Posted by CATHERINE IDZERDA on November 03, 2008
JANESVILLE—Today’s lesson: Pumpkins are property. An 18-year-old Janesville man was ticketed for damage to the physical property of another after he smashed two carved pumpkins, according to Janesville police reports. At 9:49 p.m. Saturday, a homeowner in the 1800 block Nicolet Street, Janesville, heard somebody on his porch. One glance ...Read more, view comments (84) »
Decrease in state pension checks expected
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 03, 2008
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Retired state government workers are expected to see a decrease in their monthly pension checks. Wisconsin's multibillion dollar public employee pension fund is preparing to reduce payments to about 150,000 retirees for the first time in its 26-year history. The Department of Employee Trust Funds is ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Search continues for shooter
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 03, 2008
CROSS PLAINS, Wis. (AP) Dane County sheriff's deputies continue their search for a suspect wanted for fatally shooting an acquaintance and wounding the victim's fiancee. Craig Severson and Lisa Morgan were preparing a first birthday celebration for their son in Cross Plains Friday when the assailant shot them. Severson's brother, ...Read more, view comments (6) »
Interstate 90/39 open to traffic after crash
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on November 03, 2008
Southbound traffic can now get through Rock County on Interstate 90/39 near Beloit. A crash, involving a jackknifed semi and spilled lumber in the road, closed the Interstate near the city of Beloit in Rock County at 5 a.m. today, according to the Wisconsin State Patrol. The road was closed ...Read more, add a comment »
Rock County Sheriff's deputies plan extra patrols around polls
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on November 03, 2008
From the WCLO newsroom: Rock County Sheriff's deputies will be stepping up patrols around the county's rural polling places Tuesday. Commander Troy Knudson says he's discussed contingencies with the Rock County Clerk. He says weather in Wisconsin is always an issue, and with the added traffic on election day it ...Read more, view comments (24) »
'Freakfest 2008' relatively mild
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 02, 2008
MADISON -- Police in Madison are pleased that arrests at this year's Freakfest are down from last year's bash. As of 2:45 a.m. Sunday, the total number of arrests was 77. Police say most of the arrests were for relatively minor offenses. More than 38,300 people bought tickets for this ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Milwaukee voters to get performances at polls
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 02, 2008
MILWAUKEE -- Some Milwaukee voters will get to see more than just poll workers on Tuesday. They will get music, dance and video performances as well recorded sound, puppetry, interactive sculpture, and poetry at 12 polling places throughout the city. A nonprofit, nonpartisan group called My Vote Performs is producing ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Judge to hear arguments in prayer death Monday
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 02, 2008
WAUSAU -- A judge will hear arguments this week on whether charges against two parents who prayed as their daughter died of untreated diabetes should be dismissed. Attorneys for Dale and Leilani Neumann contend the couple cannot be charged with second-degree reckless homicide without their constitutional rights being violated. Marathon ...Read more, view comments (6) »
Judge orders political group to stop running ads
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 01, 2008
BLACK RIVER FALLS -- A judge issued a rare order citing an obscure law Saturday, advising a political group to stop running radio ads against a candidate for state Assembly in west-central Wisconsin. Jackson County Circuit Court Judge Thomas Lister said Middleton-based Coalition for America's Families must stop running ads ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Wis. cities see more early votes cast than in '04
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 01, 2008
MILWAUKEE -- Thousands of Wisconsin voters continue to swarm to their local city offices, casting their ballots early to avoid the long lines expected Tuesday. City clerks across the state say the number of early voters this year has already surpassed the totals from the 2004 election. In Madison, about ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Vandals toss pumpkins at mailboxes in Brodhead area
Posted by TED SULLIVAN on November 01, 2008
BRODHEAD -- Green County sheriff's officials are searching for vandals suspected of throwing pumpkins at mailboxes. Twelve mailboxes were reported damaged Friday night in rural Brodhead and Juda, according to a Green County Sheriff's Department news release. Anyone with information can call the sheriff's department or Crime Stoppers at 1-880-I-C-CRIME.Read more, view comments (13) »
Dane County releases victims' names in shooting
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 01, 2008
MADISON -- Dane County sheriff's officials say they're still trying to find a known suspect in a double shooting in Cross Plains that left one man dead and a woman seriously injured. The sheriff's department says 45-year-old Craig Severson died and 27-year-old Lisa Morgan is in critical condition after the ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Wis. election officials prepare for record turnout
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 01, 2008
MADISON -- While the presidential race may bring voters to the polls Tuesday, other important races also will be decided across Wisconsin. One of the most important issues will be which party controls the state Assembly. Republicans hold a slim 51-47 seat majority now, but Democrats hope to take control. ...Read more, view comments (6) »
Wis. man shot by neighbor faces charge
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on November 01, 2008
PRAIRIE DU CHIEN -- A man shot by his neighbor while he allegedly was vandalizing her home is charged with criminal damage to property — and the neighbor isn't expected to face any charges. The criminal complaint filed in Crawford County Circuit Court said 53-year-old Harvey Townsend used a metal ...Read more, view comments (9) »
