Local News Archives for 2026-09

Theft of Flock camera under investigation

The Watertown Police Department is investigating the theft of a Flock camera.

The investigation is ongoing. The Watertown Police Department is actively working to identify the individual or individuals involved. They will pursue criminal charges and prosecution against those responsible.

Committing a crime is not a valid form of protest, according to the Watertown Police Department.

The theft of the Flock camera occurred on September 24.

Anyone with information regarding this theft is encouraged to contact the Watertown Police Department at 920-261-6660 or Tip411 to remain anonymous.

      

Terror on Rural Street returns for a spooky season

The scariest haunted house is purely subjective. Hartford's Terror on Rural Street is cutting edge scary. Their dedicated team of actors volunteer every year for the joy of high level fright.

"We are fortunate to have a great group of volunteers every year who really love being a part of a haunted house and scaring people," said Dick Feutz, one of the organizers of Terror on Rural Street and a member of the Hartford Community Service.

The visual effects are mind blowing, with a surprise around every turn. They are anxious to start a new season.

Terror on Rural Street will be open every Friday and Saturday through the month of October, at 147 N. Rural Street in the City of Hartford. Doors open at 7 p.m. with ticket sales running from 6:30 p.m. to 10:30 p.m. Blackout night is Saturday, October 31 with the entire experience in the dark.

Hartford Community Service is a nonprofit organization. The purpose of the haunted house is to raise money for the community. 

  

 

 

"Packing for a Purpose" kicks off 90th United Way Campaign

400 community volunteers rolled up their sleeves at Moraine Park Technical College on Tuesday, September 29 to pack more than 17,000 snack packs for distribution to 25+ local nonprofit partners and schools that serve children and seniors. The “Packing for a Purpose” event officially kicks off the United Way of Washington County’s 90th annual campaign.

Community members were invited to bring canned goods and non-perishable food items to Moraine Park, as United Way and Bob’s Main Street Auto and Towing wrapped up a community-wide food drive. All donations collected during the “Fill the Truck” event will benefit food pantries throughout Washington County.

“Every box we pack and every canned good we collect goes straight to a neighbor in need,” said Sarah Stadler, 2026 Campaign Co-Chair in a press release. “More importantly, these events and the campaign are reflections of the purpose of United Way — uniting community members, businesses and nonprofit agencies around a shared purpose.”

“It’s inspiring to see hundreds of people giving their time and packing food side by side,” said Jim Schwalen, United Way of Washington County Board Chair and 2026 Campaign Co-Chair in a press release. “But the real impact happens throughout the year, as kids and families in every corner of Washington County receive support from our funded partners.”

The campaign kickoff highlights the start of United Way’s most visible fundraising effort of the year.

Funds raised will support more than 25 community initiatives and programs addressing Washington County's most pressing needs in health, financial security and youth opportunity.

United Way of Washington County invites all community members to help power the next 90 years of United Way. The campaign runs through December 31, 2026. 

$75,000 FEMA grant going toward EMS training

The West Bend Fire Department has been awarded $74,995.45 through the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant program.
The grant, which requires a 10 percent local match, will support standardized incident command training and certification for West Bend fire and rescue personnel, as well as training opportunities for the department’s mutual-aid partners. The department plans to use training funds already included in the current budget year to meet the local match requirement.
The award program also includes a Train-the-Trainer component, which will allow West Bend to certify internal employees to continue providing training and professional development beyond the initial grant-funded period.
“This grant represents a meaningful investment in the safety and effectiveness of our fireground operations,” said West Bend Fire Chief Les Norin in a press release. “Standardized incident command training strengthens how we manage complex emergencies, improves coordination among our personnel, and creates greater interoperability with the mutal-aid partners we routinely work alongside. Just as importantly, we can make that investment without placing an additional financial burden on local taxpayers.”
Division Chief Alec Hakes and Battalion Chief Joseph Weinert have begun planning for implementation of the project, which has a two-year period of performance running from Sept. 28, 2026, through Sept. 27, 2028.
Established in 2001, the AFG program provides direct funding to local fire departments and emergency medical services organizations nationwide for critical equipment, training and protective gear. The program made $291.6 million available for Fiscal Year 2025, and, as of late September 2026, $264.8 million has been awarded through nearly 1,400 individual grants.
FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters Grant program provides funding to help fire departments and other eligible emergency-service organizations equip and train emergency personnel, enhance operational efficiency, foster interoperability and strengthen community resilience. The FY 2025 program anticipates approximately $291.6 million in total funding for the program.

Accident involves three motorcycles

Three people were transported to a hospital after an accident, which involved three motorcycles.  All three motorcycles went down on County Trunk T in Watertown, according to the Jefferson County Sheriff's Office.

Deputies responded to County Trunk T on Saturday, September 26 at 10:39 a.m. The motorcycles were part of a larger group on a pre-planned ride through Jefferson County, according to the sheriff's office.

They were heading west when the lead rider lost control, crossed in front of the riders behind him and tipped his motorcycle onto its side. The sheriff's office said he was not wearing a helmet and had a serious head injury.

The second rider avoided the first motorcycle but tipped over and was not hurt. 

The driver and passenger of the third motorcycle hit the second motorcycle and also went down. Neither were wearing a helmet, and both reportedly had head and leg injuries.

 

Washington County Walk to End Alzheimer's inspires hope

The Washington County community came together in a wave of purple pride and determination for this year's Walk to End Alzheimer's. Fueled by the energy of over 500 walkers, the event raised over $110,000. These funds will directly support families across the Washington County area with education, care, support services, advocacy efforts and the Alzheimer's Association's 24/7 Helpline, 800-272-3900.

"This year's Walk to End Alzheimer's in West Bend was nothing short of extraordinary. To see hundreds of people come together, each with their own story and reason to walk, was incredibly moving. The joy, the energy, and the determination of this community give us strength and bring us closer to the day when we end Alzheimer's for good. I am so grateful to every walker, volunteer, and supporter who made this celebration of hope and progress possible," said Dave Grams, Executive Director of the Alzheimer's Association Wisconsin Chapter.

In Wisconsin, more than 110,900 people are living with Alzheimer's, and 206,000 caregivers support them every day. In Washington County alone, over 3,539 residents age 65 and older are living with dementia, with that number projected at over 4,030 by 2030.

   

Flock cameras addressed at Slinger Board meeting

Flock cameras continue to be a topic of discussion.

These cameras are automated license plate readers that are able to record and log the make, model, license plate, color, time and direction of passing vehicles.

Wisconsin's 98th Assembly District State Representative Jim Piwowarczyk told WTKM that flock cameras are causing some concern.

"The reality is, we have had flock cameras and law enforcement has been using them for over ten years now. Flock cameras take photos of cars as they drive by and its stored in a data base. There are multiple uses for flock cameras. I realize, there are privacy concerns and I have those concerns also."  

Residents were encouraged to make their voice heard at a Village Board meeting, in Slinger on Monday, September 28 regarding flock cameras. A number of Slinger residents signed a petition in order to remove the flock cameras and it was turned in.

Slinger currently has five flock cameras posted throughout the community. 

  

Hartford's Innovation Way extension project is underway

Construction on the Innovation Way extension project began the week of September 21 with sanitary sewer installation work, in the City of Hartford. The project will extend 2,800 feet of new roadway and curb and gutter along with sanitary sewer, water main, and storm sewer. When complete, the project will connect Western Drive to the existing dead end of Innovation Way in the City of Hartford Industrial Park.

City of Hartford Engineer Chris Walter told WTKM that they work with other departments within the city to determine what projects are planned. 

"We work together with a lot of the city departments. The City of Hartford has a joint water and electric utility, public works department obviously and then there is a separate sanitary sewer utility. Under the engineering department, is a storm sewer utility. All of those groups, staff members and managers get together and look at what the needs are in the area."   

Completion of all utilities and rough grading of the roadway on the Innovation Way extension project will take place this fall, with asphalt paving work planned for the spring.

Hartford's Pink Pumpkin Run is October 3

It has grown into a powerful city tradition. Hartford’s Pink Pumpkin Run is Saturday, October 3.

The Pink Pumpkin Run was created with one goal in mind — to support local individuals and families affected by breast cancer in a meaningful, direct way.

Through passion, and dedication this event has grown year after year, bringing people together for something special.

Pink Pumkin Run Board member Leah Nagel is the secretary and event coordinator. She told WTKM that it’s a special day and there will be a lot to do.           

"You come for the run and stay for the fun. There will be a lot to do, we bring in a lot of vendors and a wide array of vendors. We have food vendors, crafting vendors and activities. We are careful with who we invite out as vendors. We want to make it a great experience."

Hartford's Pink Pumpkin Run Board of Directors believe no one should face breast cancer alone. They focus on supporting people in Washington and Dodge counties, offering both financial assistance and emotional encouragement during one of life’s most difficult times.

 

West Bend man arrested

The West Bend Police Department received a report of a man inside the Pilgrim Lutheran Church, on Meadowbrook Drive, in West Bend attempting to start an object on fire. The man left the church when confronted by church staff members, however, was located a short distance from the church by West Bend Police Officers and taken into custody without incident.

The investigation determined the man had used a lighter to start a crucifix on fire, resulting in minor damage. The fire did not spread beyond the crucifix and no injuries were reported.

The 50-year-old West Bend man was transported to the Washington County Jail for charges of arson and recklessly endangering safety.

The investigation remains ongoing.

 

Oconomowoc police investigate incident near Second Street

The Oconomowoc Police are investigating an incident.

Officers were dispatched to Second Street and Franklin Street for a report of an unknown individual walking in the area with an airsoft rifle and a machete.

Officers and detectives are currently investigating the circumstances.

The Oconomowoc Police Department is aware of reports suggesting this incident may be connected to homecoming-related activity. Investigators are working to determine what occurred. 

Anyone with any information is encouraged to call Detective Moss at 262-569-3257.  

   

Historic Soo Line No. 1003 steam locomotive is back on track

"All aboard" for a day of steam.

The Steam Locomotive Heritage Association, The Wisconsin Chapter of the National Railway Historical Society and the Soo Line Historical and Technical Society announced the return of the historic Soo Line No. 1003 steam locomotive. It will return to operation on Saturday, September 26 as part of the national celebration commemorating America's 250th Birthday.

Built in 1913, the Soo Line No. 1003 is one of the few operational mainline steam locomotives remaining in North America.

It will travel from Hartford, to Horicon and Burnett. This is a public event and is free to the public, so residents are encouraged to bring the family and your camera to capture living railroad history.

Soo Line No. 1003 operating schedule, according to the Steam Locomotive Heritage Association and is subject to change: 

 

8:30 AM — Depart / Leave museum in Hartford

8:45 AM — Run-by in Horicon

Crossing Rural, Main, Wisconsin and Grand/4th Ave

9:00 AM — Switch cars at West Yard

(Near Lauffer Trucking)

9:15 AM — Run tender First to Horicon

10:15 AM — Arrive in Horicon

10:45–11:00 AM — Run Around Train and Shove to Burnett

11:30 AM — Arrive in Burnett

11:30 AM–12:00 PM — Coaling and Servicing

(Near Peachy Brother Elevator)

12:00–12:45 PM — Photo runbys in Burnett

12:45–1:15 PM — Run to Horicon, WI

1:45 PM — Leave Horicon, WI

2:00 PM — Photo run-by at Noble Road

2:15 PM — Iron Ridge / County Road S or along the route

2:45 PM — Photo runs — Rubicon

3:30 PM — Arrive Back in Hartford

 

Members of the public are reminded to remain at least 25 feet from the railroad tracks at all times. 

The operation of the Soo Line No. 1003 is made possible through the dedication of volunteers and the generous support of donors. 

Photo by the Steam Locomotive Heritage Association.

 

 

 

 

Civil War Veterans Monument Dedication Ceremony

A monument dedication ceremony will be held on Sunday, September 27 at Our Saviours Christ Cemetery, located at W188N12588 Maple Road, in Germantown. 

All are welcome to attend.

The ceremony will honor the services of veterans from the Civil War. It will include Adam Arnold, Paul Bast, August Boeker, Charles Dallmann, Peter Dix, Melcher Greulich, George Henrich, David Klumb, John Poehlman and Peter Rheingans.   

The ceremony begins at 1 p.m. and will include color guard and three - volley salute.

The presented monument will ensure that veterans of the Civil War will never be forgotten. 

 

 

 

 

A horse has been found

The Dodge County Sheriff's Office reported a lost horse on Friday morning, September 25.

Sheriff's deputies discovered the horse northwest of Watertown, as it appeared to be out on a stroll. It was a brown quarter horse, with a white patch on her face.

The owner of the horse was located and was able to pick her up, safe and sound.

Photo by the Dodge County Sheriff's Office.

100 years for Kuhtz General Store

It's a big celebration, recognizing 100 years and the rich history of Kuhtz General Store Food and Spirits. 

This quaint business was established in 1926. This historic bar, grill, and neighborhood gathering spot in Oconomowoc offers a full bar, delicious food, and a unique selection of Amish candies, along with live music and entertainment that brings the community together. They have been serving Stone Bank, Lake Country, Okauchee, Oconomowoc, Sussex, Watertown and Hartland as a go-to destination for casual dining and good times in a welcoming, small-town atmosphere.  

They are easy to find on Stone Bank Road, in Oconomowoc. Just look for the sign - "Kuhtz Tap."

It all started with a trade in September, of 1926. Paul Kuhtz traded his farm in Waukesha to Arno Degnitz for a small general store, in Stone Bank. Paul ran the store for 34 years until his passing in 1960. Charles "Bud" Kuhtz stepped in and took over the ownership of the business. "Bud" lived above the store with his parents, Harvey and Anna. He began working for his Uncle Paul when he was 18-years-old. Bud took over the ownership of the store in 1960, after Paul Kuhtz passed away. Bud was known for blowing a whistle at closing time. Kuhtz’s third owner, Charles Jr. (Chuck) ran Kuhtz’s from 1979-1991. Chuck grew up down the street from the store and started working for his dad, Bud after graduating from Luther College. Craig is the fourth generation Kuhtz to operate the business.

A big weekend party, celebrating their milestone, begins Friday, September 25 and will feature live music, food and drinks.    

 

September 2026 HUHS Rotary Students of the Month

The Hartford Rotary Club and Hartford Union High School are pleased to announce that Adeline Glime and Landon Martin were recently honored as the Rotary Students of the Month for September during the Hartford Rotary Club’s Thursday noon meetings.


Adeline Glime, daughter of Eric and Carmen Glime, has been actively involved in a wide variety of activities throughout her high school career. She participated in varsity swimming and girls soccer during her freshman and sophomore years and has been a member of the girls tennis team for the past two years. She has also participated in two HUHS musical productions.
Glime is involved in several school organizations, including National Honor Society, Math Club, DECA and Peers4Peers. Through H-Club and National Honor Society, she has participated in volunteer activities including Operation Christmas Child, the Shamrock Shuffle and events at area middle schools. She also directed a musical at Rossman School.
Glime volunteers at Northbrook Church, where she helps operate the café and participates in mission opportunities. She also works as a lifeguard at the Hartford Recreation Center and Veterans Memorial Aquatic Center.
Her academic accomplishments include receiving the Key Award for ranking second in her class through the National Honor Society and earning the AP Scholar with Distinction Award from the College Board.
Following graduation, Glime plans to attend college, major in English and pursue a pre-law track. She hopes to continue to law school and eventually become a copyright lawyer.


Landon Martin, son of Keven and Melissa Martin, has spent his high school career
demonstrating leadership through athletics, academics and community service. He has been involved with the HUHS boys soccer program for all four years, serving as team captain for three of those years.
Martin is a member of the H-Club, Peers4Peers and is also a member of the executive board of National Honor Society and also serves as Student Council Secretary.
Martin has participated in numerous community service activities through H-Club, Student Council and National Honor Society. He has helped with concessions at sporting events and has assisted with practices for the FC Wisconsin’s youth soccer program.
Academically, Martin has consistently earned High Honor Roll recognition while challenging himself with rigorous coursework. After graduating from HUHS, Martin plans to attend the University of Wisconsin–Madison, where he hopes to double major in biology and psychology.
His long-term goal is to pursue research, with interests including cancer research and
neurological diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and multiple sclerosis.

No injuries in Town of Hartford fire

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a house fire at 6268 Arthur Road in the Town of Hartford, Monday night, September 21 around 7:10 p.m.

The homeowner called 911 after arriving home to the fire alarms going off, the kitchen engulfed in flames, and the residence filled with black smoke. There were no family members at home when the fire started. Washington County Sheriff’s Deputies and St. Lawrence Fire personnel were the initial responding units to the scene.

St. Lawrence Fire Department was assisted by Hartford, Slinger, Allenton, Richfield, and Jackson Fire Department. Fire personnel arrived on scene and contained the fire to the kitchen area and ventilated the home to clear the smoke from the interior.

The residence is a single-family home. The home sustained moderate fire damage to the kitchen but sustained significant smoke damage throughout the house. Currently there is no estimate of the financial loss.

At this time, Washington County investigators are working on trying to determine the cause of the fire.

There were no injuries.  

 

Addressing a growing call volume for EMS services

Hartford Common Council met Tuesday evening, September 22.

A Resolution was presented, requesting participation in the Washington County shared services grant program for countywide fire and EMS. 

Hartford City Administrator Steve Volkert told WTKM that from the beginning, the City of Hartford has had a positive outlook on the program.

"The countywide EMS service, we are not the first county to do so in some sort. This would simply be the fact of, we would continue to have everything exactly the same way as it currently is. However, it would become a part of the levy for the county, not the levy for the city."

The City of Hartford has been focused on a 10-year plan to increase staffing and strengthen a hybrid staffing system to address a growing call volume for EMS services within the areas they serve.

Volkert, Hartford Fire and Rescue Chief Tony Burgard and Hartford Mayor Dennis Regan have been working with Washington County representatives, fire chiefs, administrators and mayors. The discussions seem to center around a differential between the needs versus their abilities.

Mayor Regan and Chief Burgard addressed Hartford's Common Council members on September 8, and provided information regarding various versions of the plan which made its way through the Washington County Public Safety Committee and Washington County Board.

The City of Hartford would receive $245,831 under the current version, with automatic increases annually for the duration of the agreement while the Washington County tax would not see an increase.        

FallFest at Harnischfeger Park

The Harnischfeger Park’s 20th annual FallFest is Saturday, September 26 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Friends of Dodge County Parks President Glenn Daily told WTKM that the event means a lot. 

"The farmers have worked hard getting the crops this year, making sure that we are going to have plenty of demonstrations, there will be vintage farm equipment demonstrations out in the field and up in the north barn." 

The 100-year-old north barn went through a $60,000 renovation 

Harnischfeger Park is the largest Dodge County Park. 

The park is located in southeastern Dodge County, along the Rock River in Lebanon.

There will be many fun activities, including tractor-pulled wagon rides, kid's activities and entertainment.

A pancake breakfast begins at 8 a.m.

Food processing costs going up

Farmers and consumers have seen costs go up.

What about our food processors?

President of the Midwest Food Products Association Nick Novak says costs are on the rise.

"We have seen costs go up across the board, whether it's cost of labor or whether it's the cost of the goods we need to make with these different food products. The cost of energy also. It's really something that our members are experiencing, just like the consumer. Our members are doing their best to absorb those costs as they can, but there is really nothing you can do when you are seeing costs go up as much as we have."                                       

Food processing and grocery supply chain costs in Wisconsin are increasing due to record-high diesel prices  and compounding inflationary pressures.

Accident causes lane closures on State Highway 60

An accident shut down eastbound lanes of traffic on State Highway 60, on the bridge over I-41, in Slinger around 8:30 a.m. on Monday, September 21.

The accident reportedly involved a semi. 

The eastbound lanes were open to traffic by 9:30 a.m. on Monday, September 21.

The photo of the accident from the 511 Wisconsin app, of the Wisconsin Department of Transportation.     

A new Slinger police station

The Slinger Police Department has moved. They are now located at 800 Enterprise Drive, in Slinger.

Slinger Police Chief Kyle Arendt told WTKM that the new location will improve response times. 

"It will give us more of an opportunity for growth in the future, but also gives us a little more comfortable quarters for doing our job that we do every day. Having specialty rooms and having dedicated spaces for things that are important, especially being right off of Highway 60. We will still have the same patrol area, downtown will still be patrolled on a daily basis. The new location gives us multiple avenues out, in case there is an accident somewhere that we need to access from a different point."

They are still navigating the transition to the new building.

Their medication drop box is still located at 300 Slinger Road. If the location of the drop box changes, it will be announced.

The Village of Slinger constructed a new, 27,000-square-foot police station on Enterprise Drive. It’s a $15.5 million project, which will replace the current facility.

The Slinger Police Department operated out of the same  building as Slinger Village Hall. The facility houses administrative offices on one side and the police department on the other. Staffing levels have increased to keep up with population growth.

The Slinger Village Board decided on a new, standalone facility rather than expanding the existing building. 

 

Fire reported in the Town of Kewaskum

There is more information regarding a fire in the Town of Kewaskum.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a structure fire at Wollner Plumbing & Excavating, on Hickory Drive. Sheriff’s deputies and the Kewaskum Fire Department responded to the scene.

Fire suppression efforts started, with the northern portion of the structure on fire and had rapidly spread to the rest of the structure.

A passerby called 911 after investigating a black smoke in the sky at the address. The passerby stated she observed a truck on fire inside a large outbuilding. The truck was determined to be a dual axle dump truck with a heavy-duty equipment trailer attached. This truck and trailer were parked inside the structure near the north wall. The owner was able to move multiple vehicles including heavy duty construction and excavating equipment outside of the structure and away from the rapidly spreading fire. The outbuilding was unoccupied at the time of the fire. The structure and the remaining heavy-duty equipment inside of it were a total loss. Estimated property damage is well over $2 million.

The Kewaskum Fire Department was assisted on Thursday, September 17 at 2 p.m. by area fire departments from Campbellsport, West Bend, Jackson, Allenton, Eden, Fillmore, Beachwood, Kohlsville, Boltonville and Theresa.

There were no injuries.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Kewaskum Fire Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

Hartford Union High School's strategic plan approved

It's full steam ahead after Hartford Union High School's new strategic plan was officially approved by the board of education. They are moving from the vision setting into active implementation.

Hartford Union High School Superintendent Dr. Stacy Gahan told WTKM that the strategic plan is a road map, of sorts, for the future of the district.

"We really honed in over the summer on our four strategic areas. They are lifelong learning and achievement, finance operation facilities, safe and healthy school and collective engagement. We landed on these areas from the feedback we received over the last year from our parents, from our community and from our students."

Four specialized councils are being created in order to guide key initiatives. It includes a technology council, mental health and well-being, grading and assessment along with capital improvement. Staff, family members and members of the community will contribute to the mission of the councils.   

Each council will meet on a regular basis throughout the school year. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

National POW/MIA Recognition Day

National POW/MIA Recognition Day is Friday, September 18.

It's observed each year on the third Friday of September.

National POW/MIA Day honors American military service members who were prisoners of war or remain missing in action.

It covers all branches of service and accounts for personnel from all past U.S. conflicts.

The Avenue of Flags are proudly flying high on Friday, September 18 in honor of National POW/MIA Day. Each flag has a Veteran’s name embroidered and the war they fought in at Sawyer Park, 111 Branch Street in the City of Hartford. 

Structure fire in the Town of Kewaskum

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office was notified of a structure fire at Wollner Plumbing and Excavating, located at 9018 Hickory Drive, in the Town of Kewaskum on Thursday, September 17 at 2:12 p.m. Washington County sheriff’s deputies and the Kewaskum Fire Department responded to the scene.

Kewaskum fire personnel arrived on scene and began fire suppression efforts. The northern portion of the structure was on fire and had rapidly spread to the rest of the structure.

A passerby called 911 after investigating a plume of black smoke in the sky. She observed a truck on fire inside a large outbuilding. The truck was determined to be a dual axle dump truck with a heavy-duty equipment trailer attached. This truck and trailer were parked inside the structure near the north wall. The passerby contacted the owner of the property who responded and was able to move multiple vehicles, including heavy duty construction and excavating equipment outside of the structure and away from the rapidly spreading fire. The outbuilding is 11,000 square feet and is constructed of steel and concrete block. The outbuilding was unoccupied at the time of the fire.

The structure and the remaining heavy-duty equipment inside of it were a total loss. Estimated property damage is well over $2,000,000.

Kewaskum fire personnel arrived on the scene and began fire suppression efforts. Upon arrival, the northern portion of the structure was on fire and had rapidly spread to the rest of the structure.

The Kewaskum Fire Department was assisted by area fire departments from  Campbellsport, West Bend, Jackson, Allenton, Eden, Fillmore, Beachwood, Kohlsville, Boltonville and Theresa Fire Departments. WE Energies assisted fire personnel on the scene.

There were no injuries to civilians, pets, livestock, or First Responders. The cause of the fire remains under investigation by the Kewaskum Fire Department and the Washington County Sheriff’s Office.

Police confirm no sign of a threat at Badger Middle School

A potential threat was identified through the voicemail system at Badger Middle School, in West Bend on Wednesday, September 16. The West Bend Police Department was contacted immediately. A thorough search was coordinated of the school and surrounding property with school personnel and a K9 unit from the Cedarburg Police Department. The West Bend Police Department confirmed that there was no threat on campus.

At no time during this recent incident was there a threat to student safety. As a precaution, students remained in their second-period classrooms while the search was conducted. The precautionary hold began at 9:30 a.m. and lasted until 10:59 a.m. The school was not placed in a formal lockdown.

The WB Police says that if you see or hear something concerning, please report it to a school staff member or law enforcement.

The investigation remains ongoing. Anyone with additional information is asked to contact the West Bend Police Department at (262) 335-5000.

 

A picturesque view for the Holy Hill Arts and Crafts Fair

A highly popular annual event returns on Saturday, September 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

It’s the Holy Hill Arts and Crafts Fair on the grounds of the Basilica and National Shrine of Mary Help of Christians, at Holy Hill.

Bryan Michaels is one of the organizers and told WTKM why it is so special.

"You walk out and get onto the fairgrounds and look up. You will see the gorgeous basilica up above. There is so much beauty around the grounds. I think that's one of the things that makes this so special. People are going through, enjoying the wooded areas. Everyone is tucked into this beautiful space."   

The entertainment tent, which was new last year, returns this year with extra seating.

The Holy Hill Arts and Crafts Fair is back for its 52nd year.

It’s located at 1525 Carmel Road, in Hubertus around eight miles west of I-41, on 167.

A wide variety of items with over 215 vendors, representing fine arts to country crafts.

Hundreds of volunteers make it happen every year.

Care packages making an impact for those serving overseas

Support the Troops Wisconsin continues to make a difference.

They send care packages to military troops that are overseas, and they have been working for 19 years in Hartford.

Support the Troops Board Chair and Founder LeAnn Boudwine.

"If anyone knows anyone who is currently overseas, or maybe they will be leaving to go overseas, keep us in mind. Please let us know and get us those addresses and we would love to send them a care package."                                         

LeAnn initially started to send care packages to her son, who was deployed at the time. One day, her son called her and said that other troops were not getting any mail.

From then on, LeAnn Boudwine made it her mission to send out as many care packages as possible.

All of the items for the care packages and postage are from donations.

Go to supportthetroopswi.com for more information.

Thresheree and Harvest Festival returns

The Thresheree and Harvest Festival is Saturday, September 19 and Sunday, September 20 at the Richfield Historical and Nature Park.

Richfield Historical Society board member Travis Krueger told WTKM that there is something for everyone.

"There will be all sorts of activities for kids. There is steam tractors, there is threshing, not to mention all of the historic buildings. The Mill is certainly a big part of the grounds. It will be a great weekend, there will be something for the whole family."                                     

Steam engine threshing will be featured, along with draft horses and antique tractors and cars.

The Vintage Tractor Parade begins at 1 p.m. each day.

This annual event is presented by the Richfield Historical Society. 

 

Hartford Electric extends contract with WPPI Energy

Hartford Electric extended its long-term power supply contract with WPPI Energy through 2073. This gives WPPI the ability to continue planning and investing in long-term generation and transmission resources. It will help keep power costs competitive and provide greater rate stability for its members.

WPPI has been a partner for Hartford Electric since 1980. Being part of WPPI gives Hartford Electric access to a diverse and cost-effective power supply that they could not secure on their own. The partnership is a major reason Hartford has been able to maintain competitive electric rates over the years.

City of Hartford Director of Utilities Brian Rhodes delivered Hartford’s signed contract extension to WPPI President and CEO Mike Peters. The continued partnership is a positive move and will have a positive impact, according to City of Hartford officials.

Photo of City of Hartford Director of Utilities Brian Rhodes (R) and WPPI President and CEO Mike Peters (L) from the City of Hartford.  

 

The spread of EHD

An ongoing EHD outbreak is spreading. It has been confirmed in wild deer in Washington County, and cases are also being reported from northern Waukesha and Ozaukee counties. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources continues to catalogue all reports of potentially impacted deer. 
The DNR is tracking this outbreak through reported sightings of recently deceased deer in the area.

Assembly District 98 State Representative Jim Piwowarczyk told WTKM that according to reports, the disease continues to spread.

"It has just about completely wiped out the deer herd in our area. We are hearing reports now that it's speading north. Dead deer have been found in Fond du Lac County. It will continue to move north until we have our first hard frost."                                     

It’s an acute, infectious, often fatal, viral disease that affects white-tailed deer and other hoofed animals. In Wisconsin, death rates can be much higher.

The disease was diagnosed for the first time in Wisconsin deer in the fall of 2002, when approximately 14 deer were found suddenly dead in Iowa County, according to the DNR. Between 2002 and 2011, blood samples from deer were collected and tested.

Deer in Wisconsin are not routinely exposed to these viruses.  

The viruses that cause the disease do not infect humans.

Project at Hartford's West Side Park creates seating area

West Side Park's seating project in the City of Hartford broke ground in the beginning of September. It will create a seating area between the pickleball courts and playground.

This is a concrete pad with a 20’x30’ open shelter, donated by Zuern Building Products. Prospective Construction is the approved general contractor leading the project.

The project will not disrupt pickleball matches, but players will need to use the gate on the south (Hwy 60) side of the complex. The playground will also remain open.

Work on the seating project is expected to take 6 to 8 weeks to complete.

The City of Hartford Capital Improvement Program included a $50,000 allocation for the addition at West Side Park.

For more information or any questions regarding the donation or naming rights to the park seating areas, call the Hartford Parks and Recreation Department at 262-670-3730. 

Fatal accident in Addison

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office Communication Center received a 911 call on Saturday, September 12 at 4:20 a.m. which reported a vehicle-crash involving a utility pole at the intersection of County Highway S and Fork Road, in Addison. Power lines were down across the roadway and it was unknown whether anyone remained inside the vehicle.

Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded and requested assistance from the Hartford Police Department. The St. Lawrence Fire Department was dispatched, and We Energies was notified of the downed power lines.

It was determined the vehicle had been involved in a high-speed crash with a utility pole. The sole occupant who was identified as the driver was located inside the vehicle and was deceased.

The initial investigation indicates a 21-year-old Horicon resident was traveling eastbound on County Highway S when the vehicle left the roadway and entered the south shoulder. It crossed back across the roadway into the north shoulder, became airborne, and struck the utility pole.

It’s under investigation by the Washington County Sheriff’s Office Crash Investigation Unit and the Washington County Medical Examiner’s Office.

The Washington County Highway Department assisted with the closure of County Highway S between State Highway 83 and Level Road.

100% paramedic-level medical services in Jackson

The Jackson Fire Department announced that the department will officially transition to providing 100% paramedic-level emergency medical services to the communities they serve. This transition, beginning Tuesday, September 1 at 7 a.m. represents a significant advancement in the level of emergency medical care available to residents in the Village of Jackson, Town of Jackson, Town of Polk and the Town of Germantown.

This level of service will allow their paramedics to perform more advanced skills and administer more life-saving medications that can be critical during life-threatening emergencies. 

Their goal is to provide the right care, at the right level, as quickly as possible.

The extensive work of the Jackson Fire Department EMS Committee made this transition possible. The committee was involved in the planning, development, review and implementation of the many changes necessary to move from a flex staffing model to a full paramedic-level EMS system.

The Jackson Fire Department has operated under a flex staffing model since 2019. In fact, the Jackson Fire Department was the first fire department in Wisconsin to implement flex staffing for EMS.  

Capital campaign launched in Kewaskum for an Education Center at Wisconsin's 9/11 Memorial

Kewaskum's 9/11 Wisconsin Memorial is located at 1308 Fond du Lac Avenue.

The next step of their mission involves launching a capital campaign for a permanent, 4,500-square-foot indoor Education Center at Wisconsin's 9/11 Memorial.

This new space will allow them to expand their educational programming year-round and create a place where students, families, educators, veterans, first responders and visitors from across Wisconsin and the Midwest can learn, reflect and remember.

Twenty-five years later, nearly every student who visits the Memorial was born after September 11. Our responsibility is not only to preserve the history of that day, but to help future generations understand the lives that were lost, the courage of those who responded and the extraordinary spirit of service that followed.

As their Board President Dr. Mark Bazata shared in a press release, “Keeping that promise now means teaching people who weren't there.” This Education Center represents the next step in carrying the responsibility of remembrance and service forward.

The 25th Annual Remembrance Ceremony is scheduled to begin at 1 p.m. on Friday, September 11. The public is invited to join in honoring the lives lost, the courage and sacrifice of those who responded, and the families who continue to carry their memories.

We remember. We honor. We carry their stories forward.

Patriot Day

Patroit Day is recognized on September 11 in memory of the victims killed during terrorists attacks on that date, in 2001. The Avenue of Flags at Sawyer Park, in the City of Hartford are raised in recognition of this day.

A coordinated series of terrorists attacks were carried out by the Islamic terrorist organization al-Qaeda against the United States on September 11, 2001.

A total of 19 terrorists hijacked four airliners, flying one into each of the Twin Towers at the World Trade Center, in New York City. The third plane crashed into the Pentagon, which is the headquarters of the United States Department of Defense, in Virginia. The fourth plane crashed into a rural field in Pennsylvania after a variety of passengers turned on the terrorists.

Scott Henke was the City of Hartford's mayor in 2001 and shared his memories of September 11 with WTKM.

"The federal government was adamant that we closed our airport. It was one of those things, something had changed that day when I walked down Main Street to go to city hall. People were different that day. It was a day to reassure everyone that we are going to be okay."

The Hartford Fire and Rescue Department are planning on honoring the lives lost and the heroes who answered the call on September 11. A ceremony is planned on Friday, September 11 at 6:30 p.m. at Bernd Park in the City of Hartford.

The Juneau Fire and Rescue Department will host its 9-11 Silent Parade on Friday, September 11 at 8 p.m. in the City of Juneau. Street lights along the parade route will be turned off at 8 p.m. The parade will step off on South Western Avenue, travel north and turn right onto West Oak Grove Street up to Main Street. 

Photo of the Avenue of Flags at Sawyer Park, in the City of Hartford.       

 

Patients identified from fatal accident in Polk

There is more information regarding a fatal accident from August 29, at 2:30 a.m. It happened in the area of Highway 175 and Highway 164 in Polk.

Washington County Sheriff's deputies, Slinger police officers and state patrol troopers discovered a woman and a man at the scene. Lifesaving efforts were performed, but both subjects passed away at the scene of the accident on August 29. 

They have been identified as 29-year-old Emerald Tingue, of Polk and 51-year-old Eric Anderson, of Jackson.

The road was closed for five hours while the Washington County Crash Reconstruction Unit and the Washington County Medical Examiner's Office investigated the scene.

The accident remains under investigation.     

Final Courtyard Series Summer Concert at the Schauer Center

The final Courtyard Series Summer Concert of the season begins at 6 p.m. on Thursday, September 10 at the Schauer Arts Center, in Hartford.

The Squeezetts will perform traditional polkas and waltzes, with a mix of vintage pop hits, and random tunes you never thought you’d hear played on the accordion and tuba.

This show was originally scheduled for July 16, but was canceled due to air quality concerns at the time.

"It has been a great season," according to Schauer Center Executive Director John Hassig. "Bring your lawn chair and enjoy the show. We had nice crowds this summer, people seem to enjoy the outdoor setting for our Thursday night concerts."

It's located between the Schauer Arts Center and the Hartford Recreation Center, the perfect spot to enjoy live music, delicious food from various food trucks, and refreshing drinks.

"We will also have a free dance class as well," said Hassig. "Our Happy Dance Instructor Eric Thomas will be on site teaching some new moves."

The Schauer Center's outdoor summer concerts are free and are expected to return next year.  

Semper Fi and America's Fund making a difference

Semper Fi and America's Fund is certainly making a positive impact.

Their goal is to care for the nation's critically wounded, ill and injured service members, Veterans and families. 

Sam Tickle is a 12-year Veteran of the Navy and Marine Corps. He serves as the senior director of sports for Semper Fi and America’s Fund.

"Our goal is to care for our nation's service members, Veterans and families. We do that through our healing program, transitional assistance program which helps with education and jobs. And our integrated wellness program, which covers their recovery through sports."

They have been making a difference since 2004 and cover 170 grants each day, in support. All of the money being raised goes directly to the service members.    

  

Oconomowoc Police Chief James Pfister set to retire

After 26 years of service to the City of Oconomowoc, including the last six years as Chief of Police, Chief James P. Pfister has announced his retirement.

Chief Pfister thanked the residents of Oconomowoc for their continued support, trust and partnership over the years. January 7, 2027, will be Chief Pfister’s last day with the department as he begins a new journey into retirement.

In a letter addressed to Administrator Frye and Mayor Rosek, Chief Pfister formally announced his retirement. 

"Serving the City of Oconomowoc has been the greatest honor of my professional life," Pfister wrote. "Together, we have worked to strengthen public safety, build community trust, and ensure that our department operates with integrity, professionalism, and compassion."

Chief Pfister went on to say that he ensures a smooth and seamless transition and has every confidence that the department will continue to thrive. 

Strong showing for Hartford's Police Cadet Unit 9910

The Hartford Police Cadets proudly competed in the Appleton Police Cadet Competition. The cadets participated in a variety of challenging scenarios designed to test their knowledge, communication, teamwork, and decision making skills. Scenarios included traffic stops, check welfare calls, search warrants, active threat situations, and several other law enforcement related exercises. The Hartford Police Cadets competed as two teams of four, with each team consisting of a combination of newer and senior cadets.

The Hartford Police Department is especially proud of how well their newer cadets performed throughout the competition. Many of them excelled under pressure and demonstrated that the training, instruction, and expectations they provide through the Cadet Program are translating into their performance. The Hartford Police Cadets were also proud to take third place in the traffic stop scenario, competing against numerous cadet teams from other agencies.

The Hartford Police Department is extremely proud of all their cadets and the effort they put into representing the department and community. Their dedication, professionalism, and willingness to learn are a reflection of the hard work they put in throughout the year. Strong support creates meaningful opportunities to learn about law enforcement, develop leadership skills, and become positive members of the community.

Highway S is open

The Washington County Highway Department pulverized and repaved a 1.5-mile stretch of road in the Village and Town of Kewaskum. 

It included County Trunk Highway S, from State Highway 28 to the north county line. The project included pulverizing existing asphalt, new asphalt surface, shouldering, ditching, striping and signs.

Stark Asphalt was the prime contractor. Punch list work by the contractor will continue for a short time.

Serious-injury crash involving a motorcycle and three-wheel motorized tricycle

The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a serious-injury crash involving a motorcycle and three-wheel motorized tricycle, which occurred at 12:28 p.m. on Monday, September 7 on County Highway FW in Westford. As a result of this crash, a 56-year-old Mayville man was flown by UW Med Flight from the scene.

The initial investigation has shown a Harley Davidson trike, and a 2003 Harley Davidson motorcycle were traveling north on County Hwy FW, traveling together. The trike attempted a right turn into a parking lot. The motorcycle was following, and rear ended the trike, ejecting the driver from the motorcycle. As a result of the crash, the driver of the 2003 Harley Davidson motorcycle suffered serious injuries and was transported by helicopter to UW Hospital.

The driver of the 2024 Harley Davidson tricycle was identified as a 76-year-old man from Mayville. He sustained non-life-threatening injuries and was transported to a hospital by Randolph EMS.

Lack of helmet use was a factor in the seriousness of the 56-year-old man’s injuries.

Also responding to and assisting at the crash were the Fox Lake Fire Department, Fox Lake EMS, Randolph EMS, Beaver Dam Paramedics, UW Med Flight and the Dodge County Emergency Response Team. Currently, this crash remains under investigation.  

 

Next phase of The Fields at Village Park

Work is continuing to move forward on The Fields at Village Park, the next phase of the Village Park Master Plan in Sussex.

The baseball and softball complex, which will include five fields, is planned for 18 acres that the Village of Sussex acquired in 2025. The project will include a main stadium field with seating, four additional fields, batting cages, dugouts and a full-service concessions facility with restrooms and storage.

With the project moving toward construction, the contractor selection process is anticipated to take place in early 2027, with the bulk of construction expected to begin in spring 2027.

As part of the initial site preparation, some clearing on the property is expected to begin as early as Tuesday, September 8. The project design will determine which trees need to be removed, with an effort to preserve established, mature trees wherever possible and maintain the tree lines along the property's north and east sides.

Spec photo from the Village of Sussex.

Bicyclist injured in Portland

The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office responded to an injury crash that involved a bicycle and motor vehicle on county road I in the town of Portland Monday night, September 7 at 7:10 p.m. 

The initial investigation showed that a motor vehicle, operated by a 46-year-old woman from Waterloo was traveling south on County Road I, when it struck a southbound bicycle which was being ridden by a 72 year old man from Waterloo.  

The bicyclist was injured as a result of the accident and was transported by Waterloo EMS to UW Hospital in Madison. The bicyclist was wearing a helmet at the time of the crash. The operator of the motor vehicle was not injured.

The Waterloo Police Department and Waterloo EMS assisted. It’s under investigation by the Dodge County Crash Investigation Team.

Bicyclist injured in Jackson

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office Communications Center received a report of an accident which involved a bike and vehicle. It happened on Thursday, September 3 at 4:13 p.m. on Division Road and Western Avenue in the Town of Jackson. Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies, the Jackson Police Department, and Jackson Fire and EMS were dispatched to the scene.

While responders were en route, witnesses reported that the striking vehicle had fled eastbound from the scene. The Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office was notified and asked to watch for the suspect's vehicle. Upon arrival, first responders confirmed the vehicle had left the scene.

The bicyclist, a Germantown man in his mid-60s, sustained serious but non-life-threatening injuries. He was transported by Jackson EMS to a medical facility.

Based on witness statements and evidence collected at the scene, investigators identified a suspect's vehicle and driver. During the ongoing investigation, Washington County deputies located the suspect's vehicle in Ozaukee County. Deputies initiated a traffic stop; however, the driver failed to yield. A brief pursuit involving Washington and Ozaukee County law enforcement followed before the driver stopped and was taken into custody by the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office.

The driver, an out-of-state man in his early 30's who was in the area for work, is believed to have been impaired by alcohol at the time of the crash.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office and the Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office intend to seek charges related to this incident.

This investigation remains ongoing.

Higher travel costs expected for Labor Day weekend

Highways are expected to bottleneck during Labor Day weekend.

The final travel weekend of the summer will be busy, with peak travel time on Monday, September 7  from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wisconsinites can expect higher travel costs and heavier traffic.

Hotel costs have gone up, with domestic bookings rising 9% this year compared to last season.

Wisconsin's gas prices are averaging $3.80, at the time of this writing. AAA says prices could rise further, with the national average potentially exceeding $4 for the first time. Wisconsin may see record-high Labor Day gas costs.

  

 

School bus incident involved a 4-year-old

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is investigating an incident involving a Johnson School Bus driver after a 4-year-old child was left unattended on a school bus following the completion of the child’s route on Wednesday, September 2. 

At approximately 5:47 p.m., the Kewaskum Police Department received a call from the child’s mother, who resides in the Town of Kewaskum, after the child did not arrive home. A Kewaskum Police officer responded to the Johnson School Bus Service facility, located just outside the Village of Kewaskum, and located the unoccupied bus assigned to the child’s route in the facility’s outdoor parking lot.

While checking the facility grounds, the officer observed the four-way emergency flashers were activated on a different school bus parked outside. The officer investigated and located the child inside the closed bus at 6:18 p.m. The child was visibly hot and partially clothed.

Washington County Sheriff’s Office deputies responded to the scene and determined that the original bus had been parked at 5:30 p.m. Of particular concern to investigators were the temperatures inside the buses. Due to the outdoor conditions and the buses being closed and unoccupied, internal temperatures inside the buses were in excess of 100 degrees. 

Deputies met with representatives of Johnson School Bus Service who fully cooperated with the investigation. The company has a standard safety protocol requiring buses to be checked at the completion of each route. Kewaskum School District leadership also responded to the scene to conduct an internal assessment of the incident.

As part of the investigation, deputies also learned that the bus driver had previously reported a malfunction involving the bus’s electronic child reminder alarm system. The Child Check-Mate System is designed to audibly alert the driver after the bus is turned off to remind the driver to check the bus for any remaining students on board. The system requires the driver to walk to the rear of the bus and manually disengage the system and provides an additional opportunity to check the entire bus for children. 

During the investigation, the driver admitted that he did not conduct a manual check of the bus after completing the route, despite the malfunctioning alarm system.

The investigation indicates that the child likely fell asleep during the bus route and was unintentionally left on the bus. Investigators have found no evidence that the driver intentionally left the child on the bus or acted with the intent to harm the child.

Due to the child’s age, the length of time the child remained unsupervised, the extreme temperatures inside the bus, and the circumstances surrounding the driver’s failure to check the bus with the known alarm issue, the Washington County Sheriff’s Office will refer a child neglect charge to the Washington County District Attorney’s Office for review.

The driver, a 69-year-old man with nearly five years of experience as a school bus driver with Johnson Bus Service, was not taken into custody.

The child was not injured, and the parents declined emergency medical services.

The Washington County District Attorney’s Office will determine whether criminal charges will be pursued.

 

Strong thunderstorms impact Washington County

Strong thunderstorms certainly packed a punch during morning drive time and during the start of school on Thursday, September 3.

A Severe Thunderstorm Warning was issued until 8:51 a.m. by the National Weather Service for area counties, including Washington, Waukesha, Ozaukee and Milwaukee. This band of storms included strong rain, lightning and winds up to 50 miles per hour.

Village of Richfield Department of Public Works crews were busy on Thursday, September 3 clearing many trees that were knocked down across roadways, due to the storm.

The National Weather Service then issued a flood advisory around 9:30 a.m. for Washington County, Waukesha County, Ozaukee County and Milwaukee County until 12 p.m. 

We Energies reported over 21,000 customers without power in southeast Wisconsin, at the time of this writing. It included 4,479 in Washington County, 3,995 in Milwaukee and 1,544 in Waukesha.

  

Jack Russell Memorial Library's Coffee and Community event

Hartford’s Jack Russell Memorial Library has started adult programs, including Coffee and Community, and it takes place on the first Friday of every month.

As soon as the doors open at 9 a.m., hot coffee is available. They will present a speaker at 10 a.m.

Hartford's Library Director Vanessa Taylir told WTKM about the speaker for Friday, September 4 along with a few upcoming speakers.

"We have Mark from the Ice Age Trail, he will talk about their Mammoth Challenge that they are having. We will also have someone from the Hartford Community Service and the Hartford Food Pantry."                                          

It’s Coffee and Community at the Jack Russell Memorial Library, in Hartford.

 

Outbreak impacting deer in Washington County

An ongoing EHD outbreak has been confirmed in wild deer in Washington County and suspect cases are also being reported from northern Waukesha and Ozaukee counties. The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources continues to catalogue all reports of potentially impacted deer. 
The DNR is tracking this outbreak through reported sightings of recently dead deer in the area.

Hemorrhagic disease is an acute, infectious, often fatal, viral disease that affects white-tailed deer and other hoofed animals. It is caused by either the bluetongue virus or the epizootic hemorrhagic disease virus. In areas where HD regularly occurs, death rates are lower, usually less than 25% of the population, in areas where the disease rarely occurs. In Wisconsin, death rates can be much higher and high-density deer herds may have higher mortality rates.

The disease was diagnosed for the first time in Wisconsin deer in the fall of 2002, when approximately 14 deer were found suddenly dead in Iowa County, according to the DNR. Between 2002 and 2011, blood samples from deer were collected and tested. The results did not find antibodies to the viruses that cause HD, which suggests that deer in Wisconsin are not routinely exposed to these viruses. Sporadic outbreaks of epizootic hemorrhagic disease occur in Wisconsin. 

The viruses that cause hemorrhagic disease do not infect humans.

Heading toward the harvest

It won’t be long until harvest time. What about corn and soybeans?

USDA’s National Ag Statistics service says corn development is ahead of schedule. 85 percent now in the doe stage.

Five percent of the corn is mature. And some corn silage harvesting has begun, with five percent already in the books.

96 percent of the soybeans are setting pods, that’s three percent more than the five-year average.

John Heinberg of Total Farm Marketing, in West Bend says there is concern about the soybeans. 

"A slip of two percent from last week on that soybean crop condition, we are now under the five-year average, which was sixty percent. We are seven percent under last year. Some of the concerns is the bean crop is not finishing out, and it seems to be coming true with more chatter of disease possibly showing up. I've noticed some things in some of our fields around here too, we have had so much moisture here in the end and that's one of the last things beans need."   

Suitable days were reported for fieldwork during the week ending August 30, according to the USDA National Agricultural Statistics Service.

Potato harvesting was underway, while some farmers had begun limited fall tillage.

Walk To End Alzheimer's - Washington County in West Bend

The Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's - Washington County takes place on Saturday, September 26 at Regner Park in West Bend. It's a free, family-friendly event.

On Walk day, participants honor those affected by Alzheimer's with the poignant Promise Garden ceremony. It's a mission-focused experience that signifies their solidarity in the fight against the disease. During the ceremony, walkers will carry flowers of various colors, each color representing their personal connection to alzheimer's disease.

More than 7 million Americans are living with alzheimer's disease. In Wisconsin, there are more than 110,000 people living with the disease and over 206,000 caregivers.

The Alzheimer's Association Walk to End Alzheimer's is the world's largest event to raise awareness and funds for Alzheimer's care, support and research.

Visit act.alz.org/washingtonco to register.  

First day of school

Hartford’s Joint 1 School District’s first day of school is Tuesday, September 1.

It’s been a busy summer, according to District Administrator Dr. Tara Villalobos. 

"In the summer we have a lot of things to do, whether it's related to facilities and getting all of the buildings ready. Whether it's our Summer Academy, where we get our students continued enrichment during the summer so there is continued learning. Our Middle School Connections program just happened, along with the training for all of our staff."

They are looking forward to another great school year, with Central Middle School, Lincoln Elementary and Rossman Elementary.

They continue to improve the curriculum for the students.

"Our school board just approved our curriculum review cycle last month," according to Dr. Villalobos. Along with that, in the spring we adopted several new pieces of curriculum. We adopted ELA curriculum, which is english language arts at all grade levels. Then we adopted a new science curriculum."                                      

Many students and parents attended the Joint 1 School District's annual open house events on Wednesday, August 26 and Thursday, August 27. It was a chance to prepare for the upcoming school year by visiting classrooms and meeting their teacher.     

   

Internet crime investigation leads to arrests

The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office investigated internet crimes, after they received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

As a result of the tip and the investigation, 60-year-old John Bauer, of Mayville, and 42-year-old Jason Van Dyke, of Burnett were booked into the Dodge County Jail. Each suspect face a felony charge in this case.

These charges are being requested to the Dodge County District Attorney’s Office.

All individuals arrested and booked into the Dodge County Jail can be found on the “Arrest” tab of the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office App.

 

Cats abound at the Washington County Humane Society

The Washington County Humane Society is inundated with cats. 

Event and Cultivation Specialist Hannah Noegel told WTKM that the number of cats and kittens is growing at the shelter.  

"It was a big late summer cat and kitten boom. Right now, we need the community's help to find homes for these fantastic felines. We are caring for a wide variety of ages, breeds, energy levels and personalities."                                      

Visit the cat’s page on their website, wchspets.org or visit the shelter which is located between Slinger and Jackson, on Highway 60.

The Washington County Humane Society is open to the public for adoption viewing hours on Monday and Wednesday from 1 p.m. to 8 p.m., Thursday and Friday from 1 p.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m.