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We're No. 2! Wisconsin moves up in vegetable rankings
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 31, 2009
MILWAUKEE (AP) — Wisconsin has moved into the No. 2 spot in terms of U.S. vegetable production, despite drops in growth of some top crops. California is the nation’s No. 1 vegetable producing state, accounting for 69 percent of all vegetables grown. The National Agricultural Statistics Service says Wisconsin is ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Beach towels and moth spray: State will spray for moths at Big Foot State Park
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 31, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — State wildlife officials have set up informational meetings on plans to spray seven state parks to combat gypsy moths. The Department of Natural Resources plans to spray portions of Big Foot Beach State Park, Roche-A-Cri State Park, Lake Kegonsa State Park, Devils Lake State Park, Mirror ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Lansing autoworkers worry about their futures, too
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 31, 2009
AP National Writer LANSING, Mich. (AP) — As a 10-year-old, Rollin Green was awestruck when he saw the line of hulking orange-and-silver robotic arms swinging with rhythmic precision during his first visit to an auto plant. But something impressed him even more: His dad worked there. As a fifth grader, ...Read more, view comments (9) »
Web site sows support for White House farmer
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 30, 2009
MILWAUKEE (AP) — An Illinois family is sowing support for a White House farmer with a Web site allowing people to nominate and vote for their favorite growers. The nominees range from 10 teens in Alameda, Calif., who grow food for more than 500 formerly homeless people to former pro ...Read more, view comments (7) »
University Hospital says no profit from abortions
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 30, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — University of Wisconsin medical officials say they do not plan to make a profit by performing late-term abortions even though an internal document lists increased revenue as one benefit. University of Wisconsin Hospitals and Clinics, its faculty doctors’ group and Meriter Hospital are proposing a plan ...Read more, view comments (71) »
Genoa City teen gets seven years for drunken-driving homicide
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on January 30, 2009
ELKHORN--The Genoa City teenager accused of killing a Delavan man in a drunken-driving crash in November 2007 and then twice getting drunk at parties while she was out on bond, was sentenced Friday to seven years in prison and six years of extended supervision. Krystal A. Hart, 17, was charged ...Read more, view comments (73) »
State superintendent seeking new job
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 30, 2009
MADISON — State schools superintendent Elizabeth Burmaster is one of five candidates to be the next president of Nicolet College. The names of the finalists was released Friday by the Rhinelander-based college’s board of trustees. Burmaster announced last year that she would not seek a third term as superintendent. Her ...Read more, add a comment »
Watertown area cocaine dealer gets nearly 4 years
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 30, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — One of nine defendants accused dealing cocaine in Jefferson and Dodge counties has been sentenced by a federal judge to nearly four years in prison. After serving his 46-month-sentence, 22-year-old Perfecto Pineda Duque will be deported to Mexico. He pleaded guilty last month to conspiring to ...Read more, view comments (24) »
Janesville unemployment highest in WI
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on January 30, 2009
Janesville’s unemployment rate was the highest in the state last month, and that probably doesn’t include all the GM workers laid off in December. Janesville’s unadjusted unemployment rate was 8.1 percent in December, up from 7.4 percent in November, the state reported Thursday. General Motors laid off the remaining 1,345 ...Read more, view comments (27) »
Wis. legislator had ticket dropped, but no more
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 30, 2009
MILWAUKEE (AP) — State Sen. Lena Taylor had a ticket for a traffic violation dropped by local police until Chief Edward Flynn reviewed the case. Flynn had the Milwaukee Democrat's ticket reinstated after he returned from a trip to Washington, D.C., concluding the decision to drop it did not conform ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Last day for public works director
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on January 30, 2009
From the WCLO newsroom: Jack Messer commemorates his last day as Janesville's Public Works Director Friday. He says roundabouts aren't a radical change, but a new way to deal with an old problem. Although city councilman Bill Truman jokingly gave Messer packing tubes for his roundabout plans, Messer says it's ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Seven arrested in Milton burglary, theft cases
Posted by TED SULLIVAN on January 29, 2009
MILTON -- Seven arrests have been made in the string of heroin-related burglaries and thefts in the Milton area. The people arrested worked together to steal property to support their drug habits, Rock County sheriff's officials said. Stolen items, heroin and marijuana were found Monday, Jan. 19, after a search ...Read more, view comments (77) »
Watch the WI Supreme Court debate
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 29, 2009
View live video of Thursday's state Supreme Court debate between Chief Justice Shirley Abrahamson and Jefferson County Judge Randy Koschnick. The debate is scheduled from 2:30 to 3:45 p.m.Read more, add a comment »
Wis. Supreme Court deals blow to asbestos insurer
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 29, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — An insurance company might have to pay big money to people claiming asbestos-related injuries under a Wisconsin Supreme Court ruling. The court ruled Thursday in a dispute between Plastics Engineering Co. and its insurer, Liberty Mutual. The company made products containing asbestos between 1950 and 1983. ...Read more, add a comment »
Janesville School District expels six
Posted by STAN STRICKER on January 29, 2009
From the WCLO newsroom: The Janesville School District expels six more students. The latest round of expulsions includes two middle school students. They're accused of neglecting to obey the rules. The most common offense for the high school students are related to violence. They include fighting, battery, and threatening to ...Read more, view comments (29) »
Wis. AG: Voter lawsuit cost another $567
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 28, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The state Justice Department’s lawsuit against state election officials has cost the agency only about $720, Attorney General J.B. Van Hollen said in a letter to lawmakers Wednesday. But Van Hollen, a Republican, reiterated the agency didn’t keep track of attorney hours spent on the lawsuit ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Linn Township man gets 50 years for stabbing his mother
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on January 28, 2009
ELKHORN--The Linn Township man accused of stabbing his mother multiple times in May was sentenced this morning to 50 years in prison and 15 years probation. Jeffrey A. Newberg, 45, was charged with first-degree reckless homicide and hiding a corpse in the death of his mother, Alice Newberg, 70. He ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Assembly passes bill to get federal money
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 28, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The Wisconsin Assembly has passed an emergency bill that will allow the state to access federal money to help pay for extended unemployment benefits. The state Senate was poised to pass the bill later on Wednesday. Because of Wisconsin's high unemployment, those out of work can ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Doyle's speech to focus on economy
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 28, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Don't look for grandiose new programs in Gov. Jim Doyle's State of the State speech this year. Instead, Doyle promised to give a sober look Wednesday night at how he will attempt to protect his priorities at the same time the state deals with 5.8 percent ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Armed robbery at a Janesville bar
Posted by STEVE BENTON on January 28, 2009
From the WCLO newsroom: A Janesville bar was robbed at gunpoint late Tuesday night. Janesville police say witnesses in the White Oaks Bar at 429 North Parker Drive described the suspect as a black male wearing a teal colored winter coat with a gray hoody under it. He also wore ...Read more, view comments (69) »
Volunteers prepare for homeless count
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on January 28, 2009
Across the country Wednesday night, volunteers are taking a census of the homeless. Marc Perry, Community Action's Director of Planning and Development, tells WCLO's Stan Milam Show funding from the federal government relies on the information collected during the homeless count. Volunteers will deliver care packages to the homeless during ...Read more, view comments (14) »
Air pollution alert issued for Wis.
Posted by on January 27, 2009
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources issued an Air Quality Watch for Particle Pollution for all counties in Wisconsin effective midnight Wednesday and continuing through midnight Thursday. The Air Quality Index is forecast to reach the orange level, which is considered unhealthy for people in sensitive groups. Sensitive groups include ...Read more, view comments (27) »
Wis. lawmakers focus on unemployment, economy
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 27, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin lawmakers are considering emergency action to avoid a tax increase on businesses as the state's unemployment rate rises. The Legislature's budget committee passed a bill Tuesday that would allow the state to get federal funds to help pay for extended unemployment insurance benefits. Without the ...Read more, view comments (3) »
High Wis. unemployment leads to funding concerns
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 27, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin's high unemployment rate is motivating state lawmakers to take emergency action to avoid a tax increase for businesses. Two bills being considered Tuesday by the Legislature's budget committee would allow the state to get federal funds to help pay for extended unemployment insurance benefits. Without ...Read more, view comments (14) »
Sex offender to be released next week in Janesville
Posted by on January 27, 2009
JANESVILLE--Sex offender Todd L. Gupton is scheduled to be released from prison Feb. 3 and begin living at Rock Valley Community Programs, 203 W. Sunny Lane, between Janesville and Beloit. The 46-year-old was convicted of robbery and burglary in January 2004 and May 2004, respectively. He also was convicted of ...Read more, view comments (20) »
Water main break blocks Milton Avenue
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on January 27, 2009
JANESVILLE--Southbound traffic on Milton Avenue near the intersection with Mount Zion Avenue has been reduced to one lane because of a water main break, said Katie Edgington, water superintendent. Crews are working to repair the water main, which is about 50 feet from the intersection. Edgington said repairs should be ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Whitewater woman killed in Dodge County crash
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on January 27, 2009
OAK GROVE TOWNSHIP--Authorities have released the name of a Whitewater woman killed Monday after the car she was driving crossed the centerline and collided head-on with an oncoming semitrailer truck, according to a press release from the Dodge County Sheriff’s Department. The crash occurred about 3 p.m. Monday on Highway ...Read more, view comments (14) »
Janesville City Council enthusiastically approves Junior A hockey
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on January 27, 2009
Janesville's City Council supports bringing a Junior A hockey team to the city's ice arena. Monday night, the council approved spending $29,000 to hire an architect to prepare necessary modification plans for the ice arena. However, the council was so enthusiastic about the project it also approved a resolution funding ...Read more, view comments (73) »
Two die over cold Wisconsin weekend
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 26, 2009
FLORENCE, Wis. (AP) — Authorities in two cities in northeastern Wisconsin are investigating deaths of people found outside in last weekend’s subzero cold. Florence County Sheriff Jeff Ricksby said Monday that a 43-year-old woman was found about 9:30 a.m. Saturday on stairs next to the entrance to her Florence home ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Snowmobilers run over ducks in Fort Atkinson
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 26, 2009
FORT ATKINSON, Wis. (AP) — Snowmobilers ran over and killed 60 ducks in two incidents while racing across open water beneath a bridge on the Rock River in downtown Fort Atkinson, police said Monday. It's the third reported incident in Wisconsin this month of snowmobiles running over wildlife. Police Lt. ...Read more, view comments (50) »
OSHA official: Truck show death is accident
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 26, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A federal safety official says a preliminary investigation suggests the death of a Monster Truck show promoter was an accident. Kim Stille, director of the Occupational Safety & Health Administration's office in Madison, says her agency's investigation has not turned up any obvious safety issues. She ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Grant would explore re-use of historic gas station
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on January 26, 2009
A citizens group is asking the Janesville City Council Monday for permission to apply for a grant that would explore re-use options for the former gas station at 101 North Franklin Street. Organizer Shannon Ahrens says although the feasibility study is estimated to cost between $10,000 and $15,000, taxpayers would ...Read more, view comments (17) »
Firefighters respond to fire at Milton business
Posted by STACY VOGEL on January 25, 2009
The Milton Fire Department is investigating a Sunday morning fire at General Case Co., 201 Sunnyside Lane, Milton. The department responded at 10:04 a.m., a Milton firefighter said. The fire caused some damage but did not destroy the building, said the firefighter, who declined to give his name. The department ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Five taken to hospital after carbon monoxide scare
Posted by STACY VOGEL on January 25, 2009
Two adults were in stable condition this afternoon at Mercy Hospital after a reported carbon monoxide poisoning. A total of five people--three adults and two children--were taken to the hospital after emergency workers were called to 5915 N. Newville Road in Janesville Township at 9:46 this morning, said Lt. Patrick ...Read more, view comments (40) »
UPDATE: Monster truck announcer dies after accident
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 25, 2009
The announcer and promoter of the Monster Truck Nationals event at the Dane County Coliseum, Madison, died after an accident Saturday, according to a news release from the Dane County coroner. George Eisenhart Jr., 41, Chardon, Ohio, died from injuries sustained in the accident, the release says. The Capital Times ...Read more, view comments (10) »
Injury halts monster truck show
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 25, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — An injury was reported Saturday night at the Motor Sports Monster Truck & Thrill Show at the Dane County Coliseum in Madison. The Wisconsin State Journal reported that an employee of the program was injured while working on the floor, and he was taken away in ...Read more, view comments (17) »
PETA not chicken about baring it all
Posted by MCCLATCHY-TRIBUNE on January 24, 2009
A group of animal rights activists protesting outside of Kentucky Fried Chicken restaurant at West Layton and South Howell avenues this afternoon included two women who took off their clothes when everybody else was putting on more layers. In a stunt that the national People for the Ethical Treatment of ...Read more, view comments (35) »
Snowball fight fails to set record
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 24, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The snowballs flew in barrage after barrage at UW-Madison, but Saturday’s fight fell far short of the record that organizers hoped to achieve. After two teams at the UW-Madison campus battled back and forth for about 45 minutes, organizer Mike Basak acknowledged the turnout was nowhere ...Read more, view comments (8) »
UW-La Crosse to get 15 minutes of food fame
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 24, 2009
LA CROSSE, Wis. (AP) — The University of Wisconsin-La Crosse will star in a television food show. Food Network star Sandra Lee will feature football tailgating at UW-La Crosse on her show "Semi-Homemade with Sandra Lee" on Sunday. The 30-minute episode was taped at UW-La Crosse’s stadium and includes segments ...Read more, view comments (5) »
ACLU wants prison reform
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 23, 2009
MILWAUKEE (AP) — The American Civil Liberties Union filed a motion in federal court Friday asking that Wisconsin’s largest women’s prison reform the way it administers medication, calling the current system a "disaster waiting to happen." The ACLU and the law firm Jenner & Block claim prisoners at Taycheedah Correctional ...Read more, view comments (24) »
Cranes complete migration from Wis. to Fla.
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 23, 2009
All 14 young whooping cranes led by ultralights on a southward migration from Wisconsin have arrived at wintering sites in Florida. The nonprofit Operation Migration reports that seven of the birds arrived Friday at the Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge at Crystal River, Fla. The other seven cranes being led on ...Read more, view comments (3) »
Gov. Doyle names czar to oversee federal aid
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 23, 2009
MADISON — Gov. Jim Doyle is putting the chairman of Madison Gas & Electric in charge of figuring out how to spend billions of dollars of economic stimulus money coming from the federal government. Gary Wolter will be in charge of the new state Office of Recovery and Reinvestment. The ...Read more, view comments (18) »
Unemployment claim hot line jammed
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 23, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Historic unemployment levels have frustrated those trying to file for benefits in Wisconsin and overwhelmed state employees trying to deal with claims. The state Department of Workforce Development has added and reassigned staff and extended hours at its call centers in Madison and Milwaukee to try ...Read more, view comments (30) »
Harley to cut 1,100 jobs as 4Q profit falls
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 23, 2009
NEW YORK (AP) — Harley-Davidson Inc. said Friday it will cut 1,100 jobs over two years, close some facilities and consolidate others as it grapples with a slowdown in motorcycle sales. The Milwaukee-based company also reported its fourth-quarter profit fell nearly 60 percent, and said it is slashing motorcycle shipments ...Read more, view comments (10) »
Ricketts picked as winning bidder for Chicago Cubs
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 23, 2009
CHICAGO (AP) — Tom Ricketts once lived across the street from Wrigley Field and met his wife in the bleachers. Now that his billionaire family is set to purchase the Chicago Cubs and their historic ballpark from Tribune Co., he's about to get a closer view of his favorite team. ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Wind chill advisory issued
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 23, 2009
From the National Weather Service: The National Weather Service in Milwaukee has issued a wind chill advisory, which is in effect from midnight Friday to 9 a.m. Saturday. A large arctic high pressure area will spread into the northern plains through Saturday. A cold front marking the leading edge of ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Dane County robbery suspect discovered in Janesville
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on January 23, 2009
From the WCLO newsroom: A 19-year-old Dane County robbery suspect is in custody after police found him hiding in the trunk of a car in Janesville. Janesville police say Cortez Tucker is accused of robbery with the use of force, endangering safety by reckless use of a firearm, and carrying ...Read more, view comments (14) »
Powell leaves Brewers for Braves
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 22, 2009
MILWAUKEE (AP) — Bob Uecker will be getting a new partner in the Milwaukee Brewers' broadcast booth. Play-by-play announcer Jim Powell is taking a broadcast job with the Atlanta Braves. Powell is from Georgia. Powell joined Uecker in 1996. He began his Major League broadcasting career with the Minnesota Twins ...Read more, view comments (14) »
WPL likely to file emergency rate request
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 22, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin Power & Light is expected to file an emergency request to raise rates because the recession has reduced its revenue. The chief executive of WPL's parent, Alliant Energy, projected WPL's sales will drop 6.4 percent this year, or $30 million. Because of that, Alliant CEO ...Read more, view comments (72) »
Sex offender being released today in Janesville
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on January 22, 2009
JANESVILLE—Sex offender Eugene W. Vahlenkamp is being released from prison today and will live at the Rock Valley Community Programs, 203 W. Sunny Lane, between Janesville and Beloit. The 71-year-old was convicted of sexually assaulting two boys, ages 7 and 12, in June of 1991. His supervision conditions prohibit him ...Read more, view comments (42) »
Children heard Limbaugh during Obama event
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 22, 2009
GREEN BAY, Wis. (AP) — Rush Limbaugh is offering to teach a civics lesson at a Green Bay school after a complaint that his commentary distracted from a radio broadcast of President Obama's inauguration while children were listening in. Edison Middle School spokeswoman Amanda Brooker said the radio played for ...Read more, view comments (61) »
'Baby mama' remark gets defendent new sentence
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 21, 2009
Madison—A convicted cocaine dealer will be re-sentenced after a judge called his girlfriend a “baby mama” and asked whether she belonged to a club of women who date unemployed men. In the first case of its kind in Wisconsin, the 1st District Court of Appeals ruled 2-1 Wednesday that former ...Read more, view comments (80) »
Janesville residential streets to be plowed Thursday
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 21, 2009
JANESVILLE--Public works crews will plow all residential streets Thursday. Some arterial and other main streets having on-street parking will also be included. Plowing is expected to begin at 7 a.m. and to be completed by 3 p.m. Warmer weather forecast for Wednesday into Thursday is expected to allow crews to ...Read more, view comments (28) »
Teacher charged with drug possession waives hearing
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on January 21, 2009
ELKHORN The Walworth Elementary School teacher who police say was found with cocaine and heroin in the school parking lot waived her right to a preliminary hearing this morning. Katie M. Luessenhop, 26, of 125 Jefferson St., Darien, is charged with felony possession of heroin and misdemeanor possession of cocaine. ...Read more, view comments (25) »
MADD lays off 2 of 3 Wisconsin staffers
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 21, 2009
MILWAUKEE (AP) — Mothers Against Drunk Driving says it will reduce its staff in Wisconsin from three to one person at the end of the month. MADD's national spokeswoman Heidi Castle says MADD Wisconsin will lay off executive director Kari Kinnard and development director Michelle Puetz. The remaining staff person ...Read more, view comments (13) »
Beloit Film Fest ready to reveal films
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on January 21, 2009
From the WCLO newsroom: Film aficionados can learn Wednesday about the line-up for the Beloit International Film Festival. One of this year's features is a silent film showcase. Marketing Director John McCally says the showcase is a collaboration with the Beloit-Janesville Symphony. He says it's the showing of the 1927 ...Read more, view comments (8) »
Digital TV presentation set for Wednesday at UW-Rock
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 20, 2009
JANESVILLE--TV owners looking to learn more about digital TV and the steps they need to ensure TV reception after Feb. 17 are invited to a presentation from Wisconsin Public Television staff at 4 p.m. Wednesday in Allen Hall on the UW-Rock County campus, 2909 Kellogg Ave., Janesville. The presentation is ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Racine mayor resigns after arrest
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 20, 2009
RACINE, Wis. (AP) — Racine's City Council president says the city has received a letter of resignation from its mayor who faces charges in an Internet sex sting. President David Maack says the resignation of Mayor Gary Becker will allow the city to move forward without having to deal with ...Read more, view comments (20) »
Madison newspapers to cut 12 positions
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 20, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The publisher of the Wisconsin State Journal and The Capital Times in Madison says it will cut 12 positions. The State Journal reported Tuesday that most of the cuts will come from the two newsrooms. The cuts were blamed on the difficult economy. They will be ...Read more, view comments (11) »
UPDATE: Highway 26 reopened
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 20, 2009
Traffic is now allowed on Highway 26 north of Milton being diverted for more than a half hour while crews responded to a crash involving two vehicles. The crash occurred between John Paul Road and County Highway N. Check back for more details later on Gazettextra.com.Read more, view comments (24) »
Fire kills pets and destroys mobile home
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on January 20, 2009
BELOIT—A dog dog and some kittens died in a mobile home fire Monday night in Beloit Township. Town of Beloit firefighters could see flames “from about the time we left the department and from Newark Bridge,’’ said Gene Wright, assistant chief. When firefighters arrived at 5:54 p.m. at Beloit Mobile ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Crash closes Highway 26
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 20, 2009
Traffic is being diverted off of Highway 26 north of Milton after a crash involving two vehicles. The crash occurred between John Paul Road and County Highway N. Crews are on scene.Read more, view comments (14) »
Two wanted in overnight burglary
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on January 20, 2009
JANESVILLE—The Janesville Police Department is looking for two men who burglarized a Janesville business around 11 p.m. Monday. A police officer, on routine patrol, noticed two subjects inside an office of a business complex in the 1500 block of Primrose Lane. When she turned around to check out what was ...Read more, view comments (22) »
Rock County Democrats prepare for inauguration
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on January 20, 2009
From the WCLO newsroom: Rock County Democrats plan a quiet observance of Tuesday's inauguration. County Party Chair Jim Joiner says they're not having a formal celebration Tuesday, since those events usually took place at the UAW Hall. He says he believes the work is really just starting. He says citizens ...Read more, view comments (12) »
Wisconsin company helps send president off in style
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 19, 2009
CHIPPEWA FALLS, Wis. (AP) — A Wisconsin company provided hundreds of cardboard Ws to help send President George W. Bush off in style Tuesday. Great Northern Corp. deals in corrugated cardboard products. When Bush made a campaign stop there in 2004, the company made 2-feet-wide, 16-inch-tall cutouts of the letter ...Read more, view comments (19) »
5 killed in northern Wisconsin crash
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 19, 2009
MARINETTE, Wis. (AP) — A pickup truck broadsided a car in northern Wisconsin, killing all five people inside. A preliminary investigation indicated the car may have failed to yield to a northbound truck at 7:45 p.m. Sunday on Highway 41 in Marinette County, sheriff's Chief Deputy Jerry Sauve said. Two ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Hearing on proposed Walgreens
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on January 19, 2009
Janesville citizens have a chance to weigh in Monday on the Walgreens proposed for the corner of West Court and Arch streets. Manager of Building and Development Services Gale Price says the new development says a lot about a community when the city can promote new development in a particular ...Read more, view comments (22) »
Wis. man calls cops, says he stole, crashed car
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 18, 2009
CEDAR GROVE — Sheboygan County prosecutors say a 21-year-old man who crashed his uncle's car called police to report that he stole the car and had been drinking. James W. Crist III of Cedar Grove was charged Friday with a felony count of taking and driving a vehicle without the ...Read more, view comments (20) »
Deputies arrest fugitive who spent 90 min in snow
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 18, 2009
FOND DU LAC — Wisconsin authorities say a Milwaukee teen who fled from police in icy temperatures should be grateful he was apprehended. The Wisconsin State Patrol says hospital officials tell them the teen could have suffered permanent injuries or even death after he endured 90 minutes in freezing weather. ...Read more, view comments (9) »
Wildlife service seeks duck stamp contest entries
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 18, 2009
MADISON — Attention young artists: The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is taking entries for its 2009 Wisconsin Junior Duck Stamp Contest. Students from kindergarten through 12th grade can submit artwork featuring an array of species, whistling, dabbling, diving and sea ducks as well as swans and geese. Judges will ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Clean energy group lauds Wisconsin farm program
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 18, 2009
MILWAUKEE — Wisconsin is one of five states being recognized by a nonprofit group that promotes the development of clean energy. The Clean Energy States Alliance has recognized Wisconsin as the nation's leader in the number of so-called biogas digester systems. Those are farm-based systems that convert organic waste to ...Read more, add a comment »
Arrest made in rash of Milton burglaries
Posted by TED SULLIVAN on January 17, 2009
MILTON—Police arrested a man in connection with a recent rash of burglaries and thefts from vehicles in Milton. Milton Police Chief Jerry Schuetz said in a news release that two stolen rifles and about 60 pieces of other evidence were found after a search of a home at 187 Romar ...Read more, view comments (66) »
Elks Lodge spaghetti fundraiser starts at noon
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 17, 2009
JANESVILLE—A spaghetti dinner benefit will be from noon to 6 p.m. Sunday at the Janesville Elks Lodge, 2100 N. Washington St. The cost is $6 for adults and free for children age 6 and younger. Proceeds go to lodge charities. Call (608) 752-2342 for more information. The time was incorrect ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Man arrested after alcohol-related crash in Janesville Township
Posted by TED SULLIVAN on January 17, 2009
JANESVILLE TOWNSHIP -- An Illinois man was arrested Friday night on suspicion of causing injury by drunken driving after a two-vehicle crash in Janesville Township. Anthony Brogan, 32, of Lombard, Ill., is accused of driving north on County E at 11:19 p.m. Friday, when he failed to stop at Highway ...Read more, view comments (23) »
Wisconsin woman, fiance saved in jet
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 17, 2009
MILWAUKEE -- A West Bend attorney says she wants to invite the pilot of the US Airways jet that splash landed in the Hudson River to her wedding. Stephanie King and her fiance Andrew Gray were on the US Airways Airbus A320 Thursday that went down shortly after takeoff from ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Deer torture suspect may be tied to fatality
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 17, 2009
WAUPACA -- A man accused of running over and killing deer with his snowmobile along with two others is a suspect in a hit-and-run pedestrian fatality. Rory Kuenzi, 24, his brother Robby Kuenzi, 23, Nicholas D. Hermes, 22, face multiple felonies related to the Jan. 9 killing of four adult ...Read more, view comments (25) »
GE Healthcare to cut Wisconsin jobs
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 17, 2009
MILWAUKEE (AP) — GE Healthcare Ltd. announced it will cut about 150 unionized jobs in Milwaukee and Waukesha counties by March. The company said it will also eliminate jobs in Wisconsin extending beyond those represented by labor unions, without giving details. Company spokesman Brian McKaig said Friday that "the impact ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Janesville man pleads guilty in contract killing case
Posted by TED SULLIVAN on January 16, 2009
JANESVILLE -- The man accused of hiring a hit man to kill his estranged wife and a Janesville City Council member pleaded guilty Friday to two charges of soliciting first-degree intentional homicide. Joseph R. Chrislaw Sr., 46, of 733 Kellogg Ave., No. 3, Janesville, is accused of trying to hire ...Read more, view comments (18) »
Janesville Ice Skating Center open for evening skating
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 16, 2009
JANESVILLE--The Janesville Ice Skating Center will be open tonight for evening skating. The ice arena closed yesterday because of the extreme cold. Public open skate will take place from 5:45 to 7:45 p.m. and from 8 to 10 p.m. Open hockey skating will take place from 10 p.m. to midnight. ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Killer's father seeks understanding for son
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 16, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The father of a college dropout convicted of killing a Madison man last year is pleading for understanding of his son's mental illness. Twenty-year-old Adam Peterson hanged himself from his bunk bed in the Dodge Correctional Institution in Waupun on Saturday. He pleaded guilty last month ...Read more, view comments (22) »
Tight budgets force Eau Claire to end DARE program
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 16, 2009
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. (AP) — Money woes are leading the Eau Claire public schools to end DARE, the 25-year-old drug education program offered in schools a nationwide. The school district and Eau Claire County Sheriff's Department say they decided to end the program because of tight budgets and grant requirements. ...Read more, view comments (13) »
Junior hockey team may locate here
Posted by MARCIA NELESEN on January 16, 2009
Organizers are considering Janesville as the home for a junior A hockey team, but it would require the city to spend $200,000 on the ice arena and allow the sale of beer at the facility. The trade-off, supporters say, would be a boost to the economy and another city amenity. ...Read more, view comments (59) »
Many schools remain closed
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 16, 2009
Click here for the latest closings and delays.Read more, view comments (13) »
Beloit College president finalists named
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 15, 2009
BELOIT -- Beloit College announced a list of finalists to take over the job of college president. They are: -- Jeff Abernathy, vice president, dean of the college and professor of English at Augustana College in Rock Island, Ill. -- Mark Gordon, dean and professor of law at the University ...Read more, view comments (8) »
Brewers, RHP Dave Bush agree to deal
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 15, 2009
MILWAUKEE (AP) — Dave Bush and the Milwaukee Brewers avoided arbitration by agreeing to a $4 million, one-year contract on Thursday. The 29-year-old right-hander was 9-10 with a 4.18 ERA in 31 outings last year, including 29 starts. In his final 18 games of the season, Bush went 7-3 with ...Read more, view comments (14) »
Janesville ice center closed
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 15, 2009
JANESVILLE--The Janesville Ice Skating Center will be closed today because of the cold weather. If you have questions, please call Leisure Services at (608) 755-3030.Read more, view comments (11) »
Former Wisconsin lawmaker to be tried in Madison
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 15, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Former Assembly Speaker Scott Jensen's new misconduct trial will stay in Madison instead of moving to his home county, a state appeals court ruled Thursday. Jensen asked Dane County Circuit Judge David Flanagan last year to move the proceedings to Waukesha under a 2007 state law ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Warning issued for Rock River
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 15, 2009
From the National Weather Service: The National Weather Service in Milwaukee has issued a flood warning for the Rock River at Afton. From Thursday afternoon to Saturday afternoon, or until the warning is canceled. At 7:15 a.m. Thursday, the stage was 7.8 feet. Minor flooding is forecast. Flood stage is ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Flood watch issued for Rock River
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 15, 2009
From the National Weather Service: The National Weather Service in Sullivan has issued a flood watch for the Rock River at Afton. From this morning until further notice. At 8:30 a.m. Thursday the stage was 7.80 feet. Flooding is possible. Flood stage is 9.0 feet. Flood stage may be reached ...Read more, view comments (3) »
2 men die of carbon monoxide poisoning
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 15, 2009
WAUKESHA, Wis. (AP) — Carbon monoxide poisoning caused the deaths of two Wisconsin men in separate incidents this week. Fifty-eight-year-old Brian Bode was found dead in his apartment at a Waukesha home Tuesday morning. Four police officers and a deputy medical examiner were also overcome when they came to the ...Read more, view comments (15) »
Janesville among closed schools
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 15, 2009
Click here for the latest closings and delays.Read more, view comments (4) »
Many schools closed due to the cold
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 15, 2009
Click here for the latest closings and delays.Read more, add a comment »
Racine mayor arrested
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 14, 2009
MADISON — State agents arrested Racine Mayor Gary Becker on Tuesday night. In a news release, the Department of Justice said agents arrested Becker at a Brookfield mall on tentative charges of attempted second-degree sexual assault of a child, child enticement and possession of child pornography. Other allegations include exposing ...Read more, view comments (34) »
Salvation Army offers relief from the cold
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on January 14, 2009
JANESVILLE--The Salvation Army of Janesville is offering a refuge from the severe frigid cold weather. With the severe cold weather this week, The Salvation Army is available to the public as a place to stay warm should the need arise. People may come to The Salvation Army, 514 Sutherland Ave., ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Wis. lawmaker charged with 3rd OWI, drug offense
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 14, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A Wisconsin lawmaker was formally charged Tuesday with third-offense drunken driving and possession of marijuana and drug paraphernalia. The criminal charges filed by the Columbia County District Attorney's office against Rep. Jeffrey Wood, I-Bloomer, stem from his Dec. 12 arrest by the Wisconsin State Patrol. District ...Read more, view comments (25) »
Parents, fiance of slain student file lawsuit
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 14, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The parents and fiance of a slain University of Wisconsin-Madison student are suing Dane County and others, alleging negligence led to her murder last April. Kevin and Jean Zimmermann, parents of Brittany Zimmermann, and fiance Jordan Gonnering claim County Executive Kathleen Falk was negligent in failing ...Read more, view comments (21) »
Wis. man dies from exposure as cold moves in
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 14, 2009
HAYWARD, Wis. (AP) — Severe cold blamed for a death in northern Wisconsin is only expected to get more frigid, producing wind chills down to 40 or 50 below zero in the far north, before a warmup starts this weekend. It won't be a great deal better in southern Wisconsin. ...Read more, view comments (9) »
Wind chill warning issued
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 14, 2009
The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a wind chill warning, which is in effect from 6 p.m. Wednesday evening to 12 p.m. Friday. The wind chill advisory is no longer in effect. An arctic high will push into the Dakotas tonight, sending very cold air south into the ...Read more, view comments (25) »
Janesville snow emergency canceled
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 13, 2009
JANESVILLE -- An updated weather forecast is calling for less snow, so the city of Janesville snow emergency that was scheduled to begin at 4 a.m. Wednesday has been canceled. The forecast now calls for 1 inch of snow to fall in Janesville on Wednesday, not the 2-4 inches previously ...Read more, view comments (7) »
Janesville ice rink closes
Posted by MARCIA NELESEN on January 13, 2009
JANESVILLE -- The Traxler Park outdoor ice skating rink will be closed through Thursday due to weather, the city announced. The rink is expected to reopen on Friday, contingent on the weather. Normal hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 4 to 9 p.m., and Saturdays and Sundays, noon to ...Read more, view comments (31) »
Feds say no to Beloit casino; fight not over, tribes say
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on January 13, 2009
BELOIT -- The federal government on Tuesday denied a proposal to allow a casino complex in Beloit. The decision comes one week before a new administration takes over the federal bureaucracy. Tribal spokesman Joe Hunt said the tribes still have hope. He cited an ongoing court case and the possibility ...Read more, view comments (19) »
Janesville declares snow emergency
Posted by STACY VOGEL on January 13, 2009
The City of Janesville has declared a snow emergency for Wednesday starting at 4 am. Current weather forecasts predict 1 to 3 inches of snowfall beginning late Tuesday evening into Wednesday morning. This amount of snowfall, in combination with the snow received late Monday evening, is anticipated to result in ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Coalition pushes green technology in stimulus
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 13, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A coalition including environmental groups and the mayors of Milwaukee and Madison are pushing $2 billion worth of projects they want to be funded through the federal economic stimulus package. The group says the projects are environmentally friendly and include such things as creating a high-speed ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Wisconsin, Minnesota look for savings together
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 13, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The governors of Wisconsin and Minnesota hope to save money by jointly purchasing products and services and by sharing specialized equipment. Both states are facing huge deficits as the economy continues to struggle. Wisconsin Gov. Jim Doyle, a Democrat, and Minnesota Gov. Tim Pawlenty, a Republican, ...Read more, view comments (5) »
More snow coming
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 13, 2009
From the National Weather Service: The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a winter weather advisory for snow and blowing snow, which is in effect from midnight Tuesday night to 12 p.m. Wednesday. A winter weather advisory remains in effect until 6 a.m. early Tuesday morning. Snow from the ...Read more, view comments (12) »
Deputy fires shot at man who fled courthouse
Posted by KAYLA BUNGE on January 12, 2009
ELKHORN A man wanted on criminal traffic charges in Iowa and Dane counties fled the Walworth County courthouse when deputies tried to arrest him at 9:08 a.m. today, according to a news release from the Walworth County Sheriff's Office. Gerald E. Bunders, 26, of Delavan ran out of the building ...Read more, view comments (66) »
Janesville snow emergency declared
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 12, 2009
The City of Janesville has declared a snow emergency for 8 p.m. tonight A snow emergency means that all vehicles must be removed from city streets and public parking lots until snow plowing operations are complete. To ensure that you do not receive a parking ticket, please move your vehicle ...Read more, view comments (23) »
Fatal crash victim identified
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on January 12, 2009
JANESVILLE—The name of the 25-year-old woman who died in this morning’s head-on crash on Center Avenue has been released. Brianne J. Merwin, of 1517 Sylvester St., was killed when the car she was driving crossed the centerline, in the 2200 block of Center Avenue on the city’s south side, and ...Read more, view comments (23) »
Commercial printer Quad/Graphics to lay off 550
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 12, 2009
SUSSEX, Wis. (AP) — The nation's third largest commercial printer is reducing production and cutting about 550 jobs, most in its home state of Wisconsin. Quad/Graphics says the layoffs this week amount to about 5.6 percent of its domestic workforce and will include both production and administrative positions. Jobs will ...Read more, view comments (4) »
US stem cell bank has acquired all 21 lines
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 12, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The U.S. National Stem Cell Bank says it now has all 21 lines of embryonic stem cells approved for use in federally funded research. The Madison-based bank says it recently received deposits of the last two cell lines from Cellartis AB, a biotechnology company based in ...Read more, view comments (8) »
Hug at restaurant leads to $100,000 theft
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 12, 2009
MILWAUKEE (AP) — Milwaukee police say a hug at a McDonald's restaurant led to a $100,000 theft. Detective Robert St. Onge says a woman in her 20s approached and hugged a 75-year-old woman at the restaurant. The younger woman claimed the two had met at the restaurant previously. St. Onge ...Read more, view comments (44) »
Once fired, now state's cyberterrorism expert
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 12, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A technology expert fired by the state after his management abilities were questioned has been rehired as a state cyberterrorism policy expert. Mark Wahl will be paid about $107,000 in his new position. Wahl was terminated five years ago after an audit raised concerns about his ...Read more, view comments (4) »
More winter weather Monday
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 12, 2009
From the National Weather Service: The National Weather Service in Milwaukee has issued a winter weather advisory for snow, blowing snow and dangerous wind chills, which is in effect from 4 p.m. Monday afternoon to 6 a.m. Tuesday. Snow is expected to begin across south central Wisconsin late Monday afternoon ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Minnesota man convicted in Madison stabbing commits suicide
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 11, 2009
WAUPUN, Wis. (AP) — Authorities say a Minnesota man convicted of killing a Madison man apparently committed suicide in prison while serving a life sentence. Twenty-year-old Adam C. Peterson, of Stillwater, Minn., was a former University of Wisconsin-Madison student who pleaded guilty last month to killing Joel Marino of Madison. ...Read more, view comments (15) »
Demolition of downtown Janesville building underway
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 11, 2009
JANESVILLE—Workers on Saturday started tearing down the former apartment building at the corner of Parker Drive and Court Street in downtown Janesville. Work will continue Monday at 121 East Court Street and is expected to last for two or three weeks, workers at the site said. The space could become ...Read more, view comments (15) »
College grads avoid brunt of layoffs
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 11, 2009
For one group of workers, the recession hasn’t hit quite so hard. Their unemployment rate was nearly half the overall workforce in December. When they do lose jobs, they tend to find work more quickly than others. Their wages are higher, and they typically have enough savings to survive between ...Read more, view comments (8) »
Cities rushing to clear snow before freeze
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 11, 2009
WAUWATOSA, Wis. (AP) — Plowing and salting crews are working to beat bitter cold that is set to sweep over Wisconsin in the coming days. Wauwatosa Director of Public Works Bill Kappel said the problem is that road salt only works to about 20 degrees and there's not much that ...Read more, view comment (1) »
Verona schools tightening security
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 10, 2009
VERONA, Wis. (AP) — The Verona School District plans new security measures aimed at keeping students safe and uninvited visitors out in a community that dubs itself “Hometown, USA.” The district changes include locking all doors at some schools and requiring visitors to appear on camera to receive permission to ...Read more, view comments (11) »
Janesville declares snow emergency for noon; dispatchers urge caution
Posted by ANN MARIE AMES on January 10, 2009
The city of Janesville has declared a snow emergency starting at noon today. A snow emergency means that all vehicles must be removed from city streets and public parking lots until snow plowing operations are complete. To ensure that you do not receive a parking ticket, move your vehicle before ...Read more, view comments (10) »
Holtz back on state superintendent ballot
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 09, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Two candidates for state superintendent of public instruction who did not turn in enough valid signatures have fixed enough problems to qualify for the ballot. Beloit schools superintendent Lowell Holtz and National-Louis University professor Todd Price went over the required 2,000 signature mark late Thursday. They ...Read more, view comments (2) »
Police arrest two Janesville residents in heroin investigation
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on January 09, 2009
From the WCLO newsroom: Police arrested two Janesville residents in a heroin distribution investigation after executing three search warrants Friday. Janesville Police Sergeant Jimmy Holford says 35-year-old Yolanda Mosley is charged with a parole violation and being party to the crime of manufacture or delivery of heroin. She is being ...Read more, view comments (70) »
Judge erred in revoking license of drunken driver
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 09, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — An appeals court says a federal judge erred when she took away the Wisconsin driver’s license of a five-time drunken driver. The 7th Circuit Court of Appeals says federal judges only have the power to restrict driving privileges on federal property. The ruling came in the ...Read more, view comments (25) »
Janesville declares snow emergency
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 09, 2009
JANESVILLE -- The city of Janesville has declared a snow emergency starting at 8 p.m. today, Friday. During the snow storm, plowing efforts will focus on maintaining primary arterial and collector streets within the citym according to a city news release. "The clearing of snow from residential streets will occur ...Read more, view comments (16) »
Traffic being redirected off Highway 51
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on January 09, 2009
Highway 51 between East County M and West County M in Fulton Township is closed due to a traffic crash with injuries. A Rock County Sheriff’s Office deputy is redirecting traffic off Highway 51 onto East County M, said a spokeswoman at the Rock County Communication Center. The two-vehicle crash ...Read more, view comments (43) »
Wisconsin prisons' upgrades to cost $1.2 million, report says
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 09, 2009
MADISON-- Wisconsin’s aging prisons need thousands more beds and more than $1.2 billion in upgrades over the next decade, according to a consultant’s study released Thursday. Prisons across the state have decayed over the last 12 to 15 years, largely due to a lack of money and a master development ...Read more, view comments (10) »
City to conduct nationwide search for chief
Posted by STACY VOGEL on January 08, 2009
Janesville will conduct a nationwide search for its next police chief, but it won't hire a search firm, the police and fire commission decided tonight. City Manager Eric Levitt estimated the city could save $20,000 to $25,000 by not hiring a search firm. The commission offered the position of acting ...Read more, view comments (27) »
Winter weather advisory issued
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 08, 2009
The National Weather Service in Milwaukee/Sullivan has issued a winter weather advisory for snow and blowing snow, which is in effect from 3 a.m. Friday to 6 a.m. Saturday. Snow should spread into south central Wisconsin late tonight and then continue Friday into Friday evening before diminishing. Total snow accumulations ...Read more, view comments (21) »
Doyle disagrees with critics of Obama's tax cuts
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 08, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Gov. Jim Doyle disagrees with fellow Democrats who are criticizing President-elect Barack Obama's middle class tax cut. Doyle says Obama's proposed $300 billion tax cut is a "very important" part of the economic stimulus package. Doyle says he likes that the tax cut would come from ...Read more, view comments (12) »
Write-in candidate registers in Milton
Posted by STACY VOGEL on January 08, 2009
A write-in candidate has registered for the Milton City Council election, bringing the number of candidates to three for three open spots. Brett Frazier, 423 Rogers St., registered Wednesday, Clerk Nancy Zastrow said. The other candidates, Dave Schumacher and Maxine Striegl, are incumbents.Read more, view comments (14) »
Brewers land closer Hoffman
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 08, 2009
Career saves leader Trevor Hoffman closed his deal with the Milwaukee Brewers. A person familiar with the negotiations told The Associated Press the sides reached agreement Thursday on a $6 million, one-year contract. The person spoke on condition of anonymity because the deal hadn’t officially announced. Hoffman can make an ...Read more, view comments (8) »
NCR closing Viroqua plant
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 08, 2009
VIROQUA, Wis. (AP) — A company that manufactures supplies for ATMs and retail checkout machines said Thursday it will close its plant in Viroqua. NCR says it will end its 40 years of production in Viroqua by March 31, idling about 80 workers. Company spokesman Alan Ulman says production in ...Read more, view comments (6) »
WI school closed because of flu
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 08, 2009
MANAWA, Wis. (AP) — The flu bug has hit particularly hard at an elementary school in Waupaca County. Except for early childhood and pre-kindergarten classes, Manawa Elementary School will be closed for the rest of the week while everything from light switches to telephones are disinfected. There are 250 children ...Read more, view comments (24) »
Accumulating snow moving in late tonight
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 08, 2009
Accumulating snow is expected to spread into South Central Wisconsin after midnight tonight and then spread over Southeast and East Central Wisconsin late tonight or Friday morning, according to a special weather statement for Rock County issued by the National Weather Service, Sullivan. The snow will last through much of ...Read more, view comments (15) »
Feds reject Kenosha casino
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 07, 2009
The federal government has rejected the latest bid to open a huge Indian casino in Kenosha's Dairyland Greyhound Park, though a spokesman for the project immediately said the tribe would fight the decision in federal court, the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel has reported. "Our project hit another speed bump," Evan Zeppos, ...Read more, view comments (6) »
Friday's episode of 'Supernanny' to feature Evansville family
Posted by GINA DUWE on January 07, 2009
EVANSVILLE--Mark your calendar or set your DVR for Friday night when an Evansville family will appear on ABC’s “Supernanny.” The show will feature the Kerns family—Shawn, Shannon, their 4-year-old twin boys and 2-year-old daughter. The show will air at 8 p.m. Friday on ABC. The show brings British nanny Jo ...Read more, view comments (41) »
Janesville snow-day makeup day proposed
Posted by FRANK SCHULTZ on January 07, 2009
JANESVILLE -- Janesville School District Superintendent Tom Evert is proposing that the schools make up for a December snow day by holding school Friday, Jan. 23. Jan. 23 is the last day of the first semester. It had been designated a day off for students but a teacher work day. ...Read more, view comments (35) »
State grant funds transportation study in Rock County
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 07, 2009
From the WCLO newsroom: Janesville Transit Director, Dave Mumma, is very happy to see some grant money coming from the state, considering the request was in competition with many others. Mumma says the $44,000 will be used to look at the feasibility of establishing commuter service between Janesville, Milton, and ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Wis. union appeals decision allowing 'gag orders'
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 07, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A union is challenging state agencies' routine use of "gag orders" to keep employees from discussing misconduct investigations. The orders are issued by the Department of Corrections, the Department of Health Services and other agencies. They prohibit employees under investigation from discussing it with anyone except ...Read more, view comments (8) »
Wheatland rebuilds after January tornadoes
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 07, 2009
WHEATLAND, Wis. (AP) — It was a year ago that two rare winter tornadoes struck Kenosha County and churned through the small community of Wheatland. Nearly every house in one neighborhood was reduced to rubble. And residents there continue to rebuild their lives. Gary and Marta Kerkman lost the house ...Read more, add a comment »
Groups condemn UW plan to perform abortions
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 06, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Anti-abortion groups on Tuesday condemned a University of Wisconsin plan to provide second-trimester abortions at a Madison clinic and questioned whether it was legal. UW Health spokeswoman Lisa Brunette said its gynecologists plan to begin performing abortions for patients between 13 and 22 weeks pregnant at ...Read more, view comments (126) »
Wisconsin vets see pet owners cutting back on care
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 06, 2009
MARSHFIELD, Wis. (AP) — Some Wisconsin veterinarians say they've noticed people skipping appointments to save money as the economy worsens. Dr. Teresa Case-Doney of Klondike Kennels and Veterinary Services in Marshfield says postcards sent to remind pet owners about vaccinations are drawing fewer responses. Case-Doney says she doesn't think pet ...Read more, view comments (29) »
Veteran federal judge Shabaz says he will retire
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 06, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — U.S. District Judge John Shabaz says he's stepping down after 27 years on the federal bench in Madison. The 77-year-old judge says in a letter to President Bush he will retire from regular active service on Jan. 20, the day Barack Obama will be sworn in ...Read more, view comments (5) »
Gambling help line has record use
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 06, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A group that counsels gambling addicts says its help line received a record number of calls in 2008. The Wisconsin Council on Problem Gambling says it's 24-hour hotline received at least 12,000 calls last year — a 28 percent increase over the previous year. The council's ...Read more, view comments (24) »
New stores to open, others to expand at Janesville Mall
Posted by SHELLY BIRKELO on January 06, 2009
JANESVILLE—Zumiez, a new store that provides customers with cutting-edge clothing styles, music and hard goods for skate, snow, surf and active young lifestyles, will take over the former Wilson’s Leather space at the Janesville Mall, 2500 Milton Ave. Construction starts in February and the store will be open by April. ...Read more, view comments (98) »
New Edgerton Hospital on track for spring: CEO
Posted by STACY VOGEL on January 05, 2009
The new facility planned for Edgerton Hospital and Health Services should break ground in spring, CEO Jim Pernau said tonight. Pernau and Jim Schultz, hospital foundation chairman, spoke to the city council about their latest plans for the "healthy village." The organization plans a $25 million to $30 million hospital ...Read more, view comments (6) »
Milton golden eagle observes first day of Assembly
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 05, 2009
MADISON (AP) — The number of political independents in the Wisconsin state Assembly chamber increased by one on Monday. But this new independent wasn’t one of the 99 lawmakers starting their new session. It was Wapaha, a golden eagle from the Hoo’s Woods Raptor Center in Milton. The 10-year-old eagle ...Read more, view comments (6) »
Oshkosh defense contract could be worth $1 billion
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 05, 2009
OSHKOSH, Wis. (AP) — The defense-related division of Oshkosh Corp. has received a defense contract that could be worth as much as $1.12 billion over 10 years. The contract with the Defense Department's Defense Logistics Agency calls for replacement parts for military trucks. The one-year deal can be renewed annually ...Read more, view comments (11) »
7-year-old victim was quadruplet
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 05, 2009
BEAVER DAM, Wis. (AP) — A crash on an icy Dodge County highway killed a 7-year-old Beaver Dam boy and injured his three quadruplet siblings and his parents. The family's sport utility vehicle spun out of control and rolled over on Highway 151 near Beaver Dam Saturday night. The child ...Read more, view comments (4) »
Diversity Action Team to interview city council
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on January 05, 2009
From the WCLO newsroom: The City of Janesville is focusing on diversity, including minority recruitment in the Janesville Police Department. The Diversity Action Team hopes to extend that focus to other areas of the city. Jeanne Carfora with the Diversity Action Team is organizing a panel forum with the City ...Read more, view comments (28) »
Ice, speed and unfastened seat belt led to boy's death
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 04, 2009
BEAVER DAM — A 7-year-old Beaver Dam boy died after his family’s sport utility vehicle spun out of control and rolled over on icy Highway 151 in Calamus. The boy was thrown from the vehicle when it crashed Saturday night. Sheriff’s officials say the SUV was traveling too fast for ...Read more, view comments (32) »
Woman critical after 7-car accident
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 04, 2009
JANESVILLE – A Palmyra woman was reported in critical condition at Janesville Mercy Hospital on Sunday after a series of crashes involving seven vehicles on Highway 26 north of Janesville on Saturday night. Barbara L. Briggs, 53, had to be extricated from the car before being taken to Mercy. Her ...Read more, view comments (54) »
Rock County roads dangerously slick
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 03, 2009
JANESVILLE -- Janesville police report Highway 26 north of Highway 14 is closed in both directions because of ice-related traffic accidents. Numerous vehicles slid off the road as freezing rain has apparently coated the roadway, said Lt. Keith Lawver of the Janesville Police Department. Roads are icing up all over ...Read more, view comments (50) »
Woman gunned down in Wausau
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 03, 2009
WAUSAU — Wausau police say a woman was shot to death outside the senior housing center where she worked, and an ex-boyfriend has been jailed in the shooting. Police said 39-year-old Robin Dunwoody of Weston was shot twice with a shotgun after the man confronted her as she was leaving ...Read more, view comments (30) »
3 die in snowmobile crash
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 03, 2009
ARBOR VITAE — Two snowmobilers and a passenger died when their sleds crashed on a trail in northern Wisconsin’s Vilas County. Sheriff’s officials said the accident was reported about 10 a.m. Saturday in Arbor Vitae Township. The two snomobiles crashed. Authorities said both drivers and the passenger died at the ...Read more, view comments (14) »
Freezing rain could make travel hazardous
Posted by GAZETTE STAFF on January 03, 2009
SULLIVAN -- The National Weather Service has issued a weather advisory for southern Wisconsin. Freezing rain this afternoon and tonight could coat roads and sidewalks with ice. The accumulation is not expected to be heavy enough to damage to trees or power lines. The rain is expected to change to ...Read more, add a comment »
Foreclosures hit record high in 2008
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 03, 2009
MILWAUKEE — The number of foreclosure filings in 2008 was a new record for Wisconsin. There were more than 25,000 foreclosure actions started in Wisconsin last year. Philip Crawford, founder of the Madison-based ForeclosureAlarm.com, says that’s up nearly 22 percent from the previous record last year. Russell Kashian is a ...Read more, view comments (18) »
Geriatric health care bill expected
Posted by STAN STRICKER on January 03, 2009
From the WCLO newsroom: Officials at Mercy Health System in Janesville are watching a bill from U.S. Senator Herb Kohl of Wisconsin closely. Mercy Vice President Rich Gruber indicates a great deal of support for Kohl's bill to improve training opportunities for geriatric health care workers. Kohl's bill incorporates the ...Read more, view comment (1) »
4 from Wisconsin give to inauguration committee
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 02, 2009
MILWAUKEE (AP) — At least four Wisconsinites have donated to President-elect Barack Obama's presidential inauguration committee, giving about $75,000. The largest donation comes from Ulice Payne Jr., chairman of the Bradley Center's board of directors. The Bradley Center is where the Milwaukee Bucks play. Payne is also chief executive of ...Read more, view comments (9) »
Cell phone users push no-call list numbers up
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 02, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — More than 1.6 million phone numbers are now registered for Wisconsin's do-not-call telemarketing list. A year ago, the list had 1.1 million numbers, but the state expanded the list to include cell phone users last June. The no-call list started in January 2003 and is updated ...Read more, add a comment »
Manitowoc Co. completes sale of Marine business
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 02, 2009
MANITOWOC, Wis. (AP) — Manufacturer Manitowoc Co. says it has completed the sale of its Marine business to an Italian ship builder. Fincantieri Marine Group Holdings Inc. bought the smallest of Manitowoc's three business for $120 million in cash in a deal announced last summer. Manitowoc Marine Group is a ...Read more, add a comment »
Janesville considers solar panel ordinance
Posted by BETH WHEELOCK on January 02, 2009
From the WCLO newsroom: A Janesville household wants to use solar panels to collect energy, but the City of Janesville needs to clarify the rules for that sort of construction. Gale Price, manager of building and development services, says the proposed solar panel would be built on a pole, with ...Read more, view comments (47) »
Majority Leader: Three OWIs shouldn't make you a felon
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 01, 2009
MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The Wisconsin Senate majority leader says it would be “too severe” for the state to upgrade a third drunk-driving offense to a felony. Weston Democrat Russ Decker gives the Wisconsin State Journal the example of someone who gets caught driving drunk three times over 40 years. ...Read more, view comments (76) »
Times are tough, pass the lobster
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 01, 2009
RACINE, Wis. (AP) — This alleged grocery thief apparently has a taste for finer cuisine. Racine police say 43-year-old Brian A. Rubenstein tried to steal $625 in groceries. The total included $365 in lobster and $213 in ribeye and beef roasts. Police say the Kenosha man was arrested Dec. 23 ...Read more, view comments (58) »
Snowy slide-offs earn $180 ticket.
Posted by ASSOCIATED PRESS on January 01, 2009
JUNEAU, Wis. (AP) — If you drive too fast in slippery conditions in Dodge County, you could face a $180 fine if you end up sliding off the road. Sheriff Todd Nehls says his department responded to more than 1,500 slide-offs in 2008. He says every time there’s snow and ...Read more, view comments (42) »
