http://feed.informer.com/digests/YW4WJZOHZ6/feeder Wisconsin State News Respective post owners and feed distributors Sat, 05 Sep 2020 12:00:40 +0000 Feed Informer http://feed.informer.com/ https://www.tmj4.com/news/coronavirus/woko-walks-milwaukee-admirals-vp-inspires-others-with-pandemic-weight-loss Local News urn:uuid:a06e1ab9-a5d9-84e9-d25b-f77af19c4a8e Thu, 25 Feb 2021 00:46:31 +0000 Milwaukee Admirals Vice President of Business Development Mike Wojciechowski says he realized he had an issue nearly one year ago. "When we got sent home, with the COVID thing. I sat and thought to myself, 'if I sit here and don't go to the office and don't get some physical activity, I'm going to be 320,'" Milwaukee Admirals Vice President of Business Development Mike Wojciechowski says.That was Mike Wojciechowski, pre-pandemic. Now?"There's an accomplishment. But there's a lot, I mean I'm a fanatic," Wojciechowski says. "I mean you know, I think people in my neighborhood think I've lost it."The Milwaukee Admirals Vice President of Business Development realized he had an issue nearly one year ago."Every game day, when I'd walk up to my booth," Wojciechowski says. "I mean we had a school day game on the 11th of March. And I walked up to the booth. And I'm telling you, I mean I used to, you know, I can't say that I was ready to have a heart attack, but I tell you what. I mean, I dreaded the walk up to the booth. I mean, I literally would walk out the door, go up the ramp and go 'huff, huff.'"Now he walks around the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena, and neighborhoods, and anywhere he can - logging every step."Seven million, 74 thousand steps," Wojciechowski says. "And 35-hundred and 35 miles."Going from over 280 pounds, and this."Well my doctor stared at me one day," Wojciechowski says. "And he goes, you know, 'you're morbidly obese.' And I'm like, 'morbidly obese?'"To 195, and possibly more."All the way down to just plain overweight," Wojciechowski says. "Alright? So I went from the morbidly obese down to overweight. I'm hoping to be you know, in the, you know, in that 175, 185 range. Just taking off 100 pounds? I think that's OK."And if you think there's some deep, philosophical lesson in all this, there really isn't. It's all pretty simple."It's been hard work. But by the same token, anybody can do it," Wojciechowski says.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/coronavirus/woko-walks-milwaukee-admirals-vp-inspires-others-with-pandemic-weight-loss Local News urn:uuid:da077d19-bd91-b870-1a83-2d25f2dd3222 Thu, 25 Feb 2021 00:46:31 +0000 Milwaukee Admirals Vice President of Business Development Mike Wojciechowski says he realized he had an issue nearly one year ago. "When we got sent home, with the COVID thing. I sat and thought to myself, 'if I sit here and don't go to the office and don't get some physical activity, I'm going to be 320,'" Milwaukee Admirals Vice President of Business Development Mike Wojciechowski says.That was Mike Wojciechowski, pre-pandemic. Now?"There's an accomplishment. But there's a lot, I mean I'm a fanatic," Wojciechowski says. "I mean you know, I think people in my neighborhood think I've lost it."The Milwaukee Admirals Vice President of Business Development realized he had an issue nearly one year ago."Every game day, when I'd walk up to my booth," Wojciechowski says. "I mean we had a school day game on the 11th of March. And I walked up to the booth. And I'm telling you, I mean I used to, you know, I can't say that I was ready to have a heart attack, but I tell you what. I mean, I dreaded the walk up to the booth. I mean, I literally would walk out the door, go up the ramp and go 'huff, huff.'"Now he walks around the UW-Milwaukee Panther Arena, and neighborhoods, and anywhere he can - logging every step."Seven million, 74 thousand steps," Wojciechowski says. "And 35-hundred and 35 miles."Going from over 280 pounds, and this."Well my doctor stared at me one day," Wojciechowski says. "And he goes, you know, 'you're morbidly obese.' And I'm like, 'morbidly obese?'"To 195, and possibly more."All the way down to just plain overweight," Wojciechowski says. "Alright? So I went from the morbidly obese down to overweight. I'm hoping to be you know, in the, you know, in that 175, 185 range. Just taking off 100 pounds? I think that's OK."And if you think there's some deep, philosophical lesson in all this, there really isn't. It's all pretty simple."It's been hard work. But by the same token, anybody can do it," Wojciechowski says.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/rock-pioneer-sister-rosetta-tharpes-legacy-remembered-by-milwaukee-siblings-relatives Local News urn:uuid:c919a425-7d63-7e26-4512-596d5a71e6eb Thu, 25 Feb 2021 00:09:59 +0000 Tharpe was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018, 45 years after she died. A rock and roll hall pioneer with family ties right here in Milwaukee.Sister Rosetta Tharpe is also the great aunt of TMJ4 News reporter Tony Atkins. Tharpe was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame in 2018, 45 years after she died.Even though she's gone - her family here says her influence remains stronger than ever.It was Tony’s younger cousin TeAnna Atkins, a family historian, who decided one day to take things further when it came to learning more about her great aunt’s legacy."I think the trigger for me was when I saw an article that she was in an unmarked grave for 30 years,” TeAnna Atkins said.Nicknamed the 'Godmother of Rock and Roll,' Sister Rosetta drew large crowds, influencing generations of artists such as Elvis Presley, Johnny Cash and Little Richard.Born in Cotton Plant, Arkansas in 1915, Sister Rosetta moved north, to Chicago, with her mother, where she eventually developed into the musical icon she's remembered as today.Her father, Willie Atkins, remained in Arkansas."She talked a lot about my daddy. She wanted to know more about my daddy because she thought I looked like my daddy,” said Donell Atkins, Rosetta’s younger brother.Donell Atkins said he still remembers being a high school student, traveling city to city with his sister on her tour bus."I spent my summer vacation with her and we went everywhere. We went all over,” Donell Atkins said.Rosetta and Donell reconnected later in her life.During the height of her fame, she took the time to learn more about her Arkansas roots.Rosetta’s niece, Effie McGhee, said she remembers her early years with Rosetta."Because of segregation, she wasn't able to stay in the white hotel, and she stayed in a hotel down the street from our house,” McGhee said.McGhee met Rosetta as a ten-year-old little girl. She recalled seeing her play live in the Jim Crow south, to mixed-race crowds."It was just a lot of joy. It made me feel like I was somebody because of her,” McGhee said.Inside her brother's Northside Milwaukee church, Effie, Pops and TeAnna and listened to one of her songs.TeAnna has picked up where Effie left off, making sure Sister Rosetta's legacy survives generations in Atkins family lore, as it will in the Rock Hall of Fame."It was really an accomplishment to know I was able to give her credit in a way that honors her, from a family perspective but also as an individual,” TeAnna said.TeAnna wrote an article on Sister Rosetta Tharpe’s oft-forgotten legacy and influence. A link to that article can be found here.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/election-results/wisconsin-republicans-want-to-limit-ballot-drop-boxes Local News urn:uuid:3e57992e-b2d2-5526-b220-8fdeafd42f0d Wed, 24 Feb 2021 23:22:18 +0000 Ballot drop boxes would not be allowed anywhere other than election clerk offices in Wisconsin under a new Republican-authored proposal in the state Legislature. MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Ballot drop boxes would not be allowed anywhere other than election clerk offices in Wisconsin under a new Republican-authored proposal in the state Legislature. Another bill unveiled Wednesday would require that only voters, not elections officials, could fill out information on absentee envelopes. The latest bills add to a growing list of GOP-authored measures addressing issues raised by former President Donald Trump and his supporters following President Joe Biden’s narrow win. The bills are all-but-certain to be vetoed by Democratic Gov. Tony Evers, who has spoken out against GOP attempts to make absentee voting more difficult.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/brewers-cf-cain-has-no-regrets-about-opting-out-last-season Local News urn:uuid:a1539f5c-c0a8-9142-ff90-135455bd635e Wed, 24 Feb 2021 23:17:06 +0000 Milwaukee Brewers center fielder Lorenzo Cain has no regrets about opting out of nearly the entire 2020 season but realizes his long layoff could create some obstacles now that he’s back. Milwaukee Brewers center fielder Lorenzo Cain has no regrets about opting out of nearly the entire 2020 season but realizes his long layoff could create some obstacles now that he’s back. Cain played just five games last year before sitting out the rest of the season. The 2018 NL All-Star and 2019 Gold Glove winner says his time away helped strengthen his faith and allowed him to grow closer to his wife and three young sons.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/wisconsin-hospital-employee-accused-of-secretly-taping-patient Local News urn:uuid:403f2917-216d-cd27-9ac8-c167ea988e72 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 23:14:48 +0000 A Rhinelander hospital employee is accused of secretly videotaping an unclothed patient. RHINELANDER, Wis. (AP) — A Rhinelander hospital employee is accused of secretly videotaping an unclothed patient. The Oneida County Sheriff’s Office says the 31-year-old Three Lakes man was arrested on possible charges of capturing a representation of nudity without the consent of the person. Ascension-St. Mary’s Hospital issued a statement that said the employee has been suspended and that an internal investigation will be conducted. The Wisconsin Department of Justice’s Division of Criminal Investigation and Three Lakes police executed a search warrant Tuesday at a Three Lakes address.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/election-2020/wisconsin-bipartisan-bill-could-change-elections-to-a-ranked-choice-vote-system Local News urn:uuid:854b3728-1e12-b5f9-0428-aa4bd00d14e8 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 23:10:31 +0000 The way Wisconsin voters choose their federal representatives could be changing. A group of bipartisan state lawmakers introduced a bill on Wednesday that would implement ranked-choice voting for U.S. Senate and House of Representatives seats. The way Wisconsin voters choose their federal representatives could be changing. A group of bipartisan state lawmakers introduced a bill on Wednesday that would implement ranked-choice voting for U.S. Senate and House of Representatives seats.If passed, the bill would make several changes to how candidates are elected. In a primary election, all candidates would be grouped together regardless of party affiliation. Voters would choose just one candidate from that list.The top five candidates that advance out of the primary, would then be group together in the general election. Voters would have a choice to pick just one or rank the candidates in order of preference. The candidate with the most top choices, assuming their vote count exceeds 50%, wins. However, if a candidate does not win a majority, an instant runoff is initiated. In an instant runoff, the candidate with the fewest top choice votes is eliminated. Voters who chose the eliminated candidate as their top candidate would then have their second choice counted. That process is repeated until one candidate gains the majority of the vote. Voters would not have to return to the polls in the case of an instant runoff.State Representative Daniel Riemer (D-Milwaukee) and State Senator Dale Kooyenga (R-Brookfield) are two of the lawmakers behind the bill. They said they hope this voting system helps to tone down political polarization and encourages candidates to reach out to voters across the aisle. "Everyone in Wisconsin, and across the nation, knows that we have a political problem. And I think part of that problem stems from the process...what the bill does, is it gives everyone a say to a different level as far as who their representation is," said State Sen. Kooyenga.State Rep Riemer added, "you lay the groundwork for not only opening up a broader set of relationships between elected officials and the people they represent, you lay the groundwork for a democrat understanding how to talk to a republican."According to Josh Altic, Ballotpedia's Ballot Measures Project Director, between 20 and 30 cities across the country already have a version of ranked-choice voting. It's even less common for ranked-choice voting to be implemented state-wide. But, that could change with more states showing interest in changing voting systems."The number of bills we're tracking about different election systems, including ranked-choice voting, have gone up a lot over the last 10 years. There seems to be this increased interest in altering election systems," Altic said. Ballotpedia also has more information on ranked-choice voting, including a look at the state and municipalities that have already implemented a version of the voting system. Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/mayor-common-council-urging-company-to-choose-century-city-for-u-s-p-s-vehicle-assembly Local News urn:uuid:cfca2acd-3cf7-eb1f-775f-0d3c6d41abba Wed, 24 Feb 2021 23:01:42 +0000 Milwaukee leaders are hoping to bring thousands of manufacturing jobs back to the city’s north side. Milwaukee leaders are hoping to bring thousands of manufacturing jobs back to the city’s north side.Oshkosh Corporation has been awarded a $482 million contract to build the next generation of U.S. Postal Service vehicles.Oshkosh Corporation’s president says they’re looking at various sites across the country for an assembly plant where the new trucks will be put together. Milwaukee leaders say look no further than Century City.The U.S.P.S. is updating its fleet of delivery vehicles for the first time in 30 years. An Oshkosh company won the contract to build them, but where they will be assembled remains undecided.“It’s important for us to make the pitch because we want to have these jobs,” said Mayor Tom Barrett.Mayor Barrett is joining Common Council President Cavalier Johnson in recommending a site on Milwaukee’s north side.“Century City just makes the most sense in the world, I think, to be the location for this,” Johnson said.The city purchased the 80-acre land now known as Century City Business Park in 2009, but it has since struggled with a lack of development. Century City is currently home to two employers.“This is an opportunity I think to really turn the page on the problems Century City has had,” Johnson said.Oshkosh Defense is set to build between 50,000 and 165,000 USPS vehicles over the next ten years.“This delivery vehicle is going to give today’s postal worker better productivity, better safety, great technology, zero emissions, battery electric vehicles in the fleet,” said Oshkosh Corporation President John Pfeifer.Pfeifer said engineering, development and production will take place in Oshkosh, but they’re considering several locations elsewhere for the assembly plant.“We’re responsible for delivering the vehicles to the point of use for the postal service, so efficiency of logistics is really important, workforce availability is really important,” he said.Mayor Barrett said a city just an hour and a half drive south makes sense for a number of reasons.“We can offer a plentiful workforce, we have a great transportation grid and we’ve got the proximity to Oshkosh,” Barrett said.Oshkosh Corporation said they’re going to choose a location for vehicle assembly sometime this year. Pfeifer said production is set to begin in 2023.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/lou-malnatis-opening-delivery-pickup-only-location-in-waukesha Local News urn:uuid:5dec5cea-8c4c-814a-52f0-40c75c413345 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 22:49:09 +0000 Get your forks out, deep-dish lovers - another Lou Malnati's is coming to the Milwaukee area. Get your forks out, deep-dish lovers - another Lou Malnati's is coming to the Milwaukee area.The Illinois pizza company announced Wednesday it is opening its fourth location in the Milwaukee area, this time in Waukesha. That restaurant is currently under construction and will open this fall at 2720 N. Grandview Blvd.The pizza joint's first Milwaukee-area location opened in Fox Point in December of 2019, the second in Brookfield in August of 2020 and the third in Greenfield in January of 2021.“Our partners up north have been critical to our recipe for success. We’ve been sourcing our cheese from the same dairy farmers in Wisconsin for nearly 50 years,” said the founder of the company's son, Marc Malnati, in a statement. “We’re thrilled to serve our deep dish and provide jobs in the Waukesha area and become part of the vibrant community.”The Waukesha location will only do pickup and delivery for now. It will also hire about 50 local employees to run the place, at upcoming hiring events.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/foxconn-may-make-electronic-vehicles-at-mount-pleasant-plant Local News urn:uuid:f491429f-7eb9-8d8b-457c-5533dd62a176 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 22:16:41 +0000 Foxconn says it has entered an agreement to build electric vehicles for the startup automaker, Fisker, though it remains unclear if production will take place at the Taiwanese conglomerate's embattled facility in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin. Foxconn says it has entered an agreement to build electric vehicles for the startup automaker, Fisker, though it remains unclear if production will take place at the Taiwanese conglomerate's embattled facility in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin.The companies announced in a joint statement Wednesday they had entered into a temporary agreement to develop an electric vehicle. The agreement states Foxconn would build more than 250,000 of these vehicles every year, with production to begin in the 4th quarter of 2023. The vehicles would be sold in North America, Europe, China, and India.But the companies did not state, following the development of the vehicle, where it would be produced.RELATED:Foxconn not expected to meet hiring goals in next 3 yearsFoxconn ‘moving forward’ with manufacturing facilityFoxconn originally planned to build a Gen 10. 5 LCD facility to produce large screens in Mount Pleasant after former Gov. Scott Walker offered more than $3 billion in tax incentives. But that project was scaled back to a Gen. 6 factory to build smaller screens for phones, TVs, and tablets.Since then, Foxconn has faced criticism for not holding up to its promise of creating 13,000 local jobs as local and state governments spent hundreds of millions of dollars to usher in what was initially seen as a possible manufacturing resurgence in the state.And then last October, the Wisconsin Economic Development Corp. announced Foxconn did not qualify for the $4 billion in local and state tax incentives. The WED concluded the company did not hire enough employees or make enough investments in the Mount Pleasant facility, per the agreement the company signed with former Gov. Walker.Foxconn contends it has hired more than 530 full-time employees and invested $750 million at the facility.The agreement with California-based Fisker would mark Foxconn's first foray into the production of vehicles. Foxconn is the world's largest contract maker of electronics and a large supplier of iPhones.“The Fisker and Foxconn partnership brings together two global leaders in innovation that will join forces to unlock the potential of the electric vehicle industry,” said Foxconn TechnologyGroup Chairman, Young-way Liu, in the statement. “Foxconn's participation in the electric vehicle industry delivers a refreshing thrust into the Information and Communication Technology (ICT) industry that is already focused on this exciting sector."Wisconsin, while not known for its automotive industry, did host the American Motors Corporation's plant in Kenosha. That plant closed in the late 1980s after Chrysler bought the company.Watch Tom Durian's report on this story tonight on TMJ4 News at 10.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/madison-police-search-for-missing-endangered-woman Local News urn:uuid:4ddf8684-88d3-6260-e01b-920790692e63 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 19:13:40 +0000 Johnson has hazel eyes, brown hair, 5'7", around 200 pounds and has a scar on her right forearm and a tattoo on her chest. The University of Wisconsin-Madison Police Department is seeking the public's assistance in locating an endangered missing woman. Illinois woman Chandra Johnson, 48, was last seen on foot leaving the American Family Children's Hospital in Madison on Feb. 23 at 12:15 p.m. UWPD says she left the hospital without her vehicle and cell phone. She is not familiar with the Madison areas has a diagnosis of diabetes and bipolar disorder with non-violent paranoid tendencies, according to UWPD. Johnson has hazel eyes, brown hair, 5'7", around 200 pounds and has a scar on her right forearm and a tattoo on her chest.If she is seen, please contact UWPD at 608-262-2957.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/hunters-and-trappers-exceed-wisconsin-wolf-kill-target Local News urn:uuid:8951e8ad-ff11-dbcd-a2e2-416cc7f876b0 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 18:32:34 +0000 The department reported Wednesday morning that hunters and trappers had already killed 135 of the 119 quota. MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Hunters and trappers have exceeded Wisconsin's state wolf kill target with several hours left in the brief season.The Department of Natural Resources opened a season on Monday that was supposed to run through Sunday, with a kill quota of 119 animals. It became clear on Tuesday that hunters and trappers were on pace to exceed the limit and the agency planned to end the hunt throughout the state by 3 p.m. Wednesday. The department reported Wednesday morning that hunters and trappers had already killed 135 animals. Hunters and trappers also exceeded state targets during the 2012, 2013 and 2014 wolf seasons.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/hunters-and-trappers-exceed-wisconsin-wolf-kill-target Local News urn:uuid:2186855a-70af-c3b3-2c35-a308a70afa86 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 18:32:34 +0000 Hunters and trappers have blown past Wisconsin's wolf kill target, forcing an early end to the hunting season and angering animal rights activists and conservationists. MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Hunters and trappers have blown past Wisconsin's wolf kill target, forcing an early end to the hunting season and angering animal rights activists and conservationists. The Department of Natural Resources opened a season Monday that was supposed to run through Sunday, with a kill target of 119 animals. It became clear Tuesday that hunters and trappers were on pace to exceed the limit, so the agency moved up the season's end to 3 p.m. Wednesday. The department reported hunters and trappers had killed 178 animals at the close of the season. Hunters and trappers also exceeded state targets during the 2012, 2013 and 2014 wolf seasons.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/milwaukee-press-club-hosts-an-evening-with-chuck-todd-and-charles-benson Local News urn:uuid:b88974bf-63f2-fa30-8ebb-716a5377571b Wed, 24 Feb 2021 18:24:47 +0000 Chuck Todd along with TMJ4's Charles Benson will have an open discussion about misinformation, fake news, and how journalism has evolved. For an evening about the state of journalism, the Milwaukee Press Club is hosting a virtual event with Chuck Todd, moderator of Meet the Press Wednesday, Feb. 24Chuck Todd along with TMJ4's Charles Benson will have an open discussion about misinformation, fake news, and how journalism has evolved. The event will begin at 6 p.m. and is is $20 for Milwaukee Press Club members and students and $25 for non-members.Money raised from this event will go to the Milwaukee Press Club. You can register for the event here. Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.wiscnews.com/news/watch-now-bodycam-video-shows-new-jersey-police-rescuing-boy-stuck-in-marsh/article_f2afae2e-73de-5249-bbd2-50ac6103e4a2.html www.wiscnews.com - RSS Results in news of type article urn:uuid:2ded96c4-5740-5461-b36c-64bec4bbf104 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 17:15:00 +0000 Video from New Jersey State Police shows an officer rescuing a 14-year-old boy from freezing marshland, where he was stuck on Sunday night. https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/milwaukee-international-mitchell-airport-welcomes-spirit-airlines-new-nonstop-flights Local News urn:uuid:8f9c5b16-bac6-fb40-65d0-ea52e355f6a1 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 16:17:47 +0000 Spirit Airlines announced that it will be expanding to the Milwaukee International Mitchell Airport with nonstop flights to popular destinations. Spirit Airlines announced that it will be expanding to the Milwaukee International Mitchell Airport with nonstop flights to popular destinations. Beginning June 24, Spirit will have direct flights from Milwaukee to Orlando, Las Vegas, and Los Angeles. "We've had our eye on Milwaukee for a long time, and we're excited to bring our unique value proposition to the Brew City," said John Kirby, Vice President of Network Planning for Spirit Airlines. "It's a win-win because our Badger State Guests will get to enjoy convenient nonstop service to popular destinations, and Spirit frequent fliers can experience Milwaukee's great festivals and sports scene and enjoy fun outdoor activities just in time for summer."Spirit will be the only airline serving nonstop flights to Los Angeles from Milwaukee. According to Spirit, the addition of these nonstop cities will make for easier connections to additional destinations including the Caribbean and Latin America."Milwaukee has some of the best weather in the U.S. during the summer, and these new routes make it easy for visitors to experience Wisconsin's world-class golf courses, breweries, and lakefront," Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley said. "Attracting a new airline is a major accomplishment, and I commend the entire Airport team for bringing Spirit Airlines to MKE, which will create jobs and bring more economic impact to Milwaukee County."Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/dnr-sued-over-enforcement-of-pollution-cleanup-laws Local News urn:uuid:73481da8-68cf-a7cd-7bd2-fcc01cc73dd3 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 15:54:43 +0000 The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is being sued over its enforcement of environmental protection laws. MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is being sued over its enforcement of environmental protection laws. The state’s largest industry lobby, Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, and an Oconomowoc dry cleaner, Leather Rich, have filed a lawsuit in Waukesha County Circuit Court seeking to block the DNR from requiring cleanup of unregulated “emerging contaminants,” including PFAS or so-called “forever chemicals” that have polluted groundwater across the state. The plaintiffs say the DNR, in its administration of environmental cleanup programs, is changing policies and enforcing standards without going through a lengthy rulemaking process. The dry cleaner alleges the DNR would not approve a cleanup plan for the business without also testing for PFAS.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/election-results/bipartisan-push-for-ranked-choice-voting-in-wisconsin Local News urn:uuid:4bbe9a5a-f096-a6a7-956e-702eae932e9a Wed, 24 Feb 2021 15:44:04 +0000 The push for ranked-choice voting in Wisconsin is gaining steam with the introduction of a bipartisan bill in the state Legislature. MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The push for ranked-choice voting in Wisconsin is gaining steam with the introduction of a bipartisan bill in the state Legislature, a move backed by a Republican congressman and a recently formed coalition of the state’s civic and business leaders. The bill unveiled Wednesday is the first that Republicans have supported on the matter. A measure introduced by Democrats last session didn’t even get a hearing. It’s unclear whether the latest bipartisan bill has the support of Republican legislative leaders. Supporters say ranked-choice voting would make elections less politically polarized.Opponents say it would be too complicated and open to abuse.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/unemployment/records-show-dwd-appeared-to-know-unemployment-appeals-would-pile-up Local News urn:uuid:c4e6c42d-565c-faec-3472-53fc2b79bf64 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 15:03:02 +0000 More than 16,000 unemployed workers are stuck in a backlogged appeals process and the Department of Workforce Development appeared to know it would be a problem as early as October. More than 16,000 unemployed workers are stuck in a backlogged appeals process and the Department of Workforce Development appeared to know it would be a problem as early as October. Last October, the I-Team requested data on people who appealed the DWD's decision to deny them benefits. Emails obtained in an open records request show Assistant Deputy Secretary Danielle Williams forwarding our request for appeals data to the head of the UI Division, Mark Reihl, writing, "I know we've been discussing this issue for quite a while but just flagging that it's likely becoming a bigger issue publicly."The I-Team requested basic appeals data from the DWD communications team. Hours after our inquiry, the department had prepared a response to tell us 30,813 people appealed their denials from March to September. Records show Williams stopped the communication team from answering that question, telling the communication staff we "...submitted this request as an open records request, which is currently in processing." The I-Team still has not received a response to this request. In the same response to our request for emails, records show the DWD communication staff notified the governor's office of our request for appeals data. They also did not release information to us. It also showed DWD staff was required to get approval from the governor's office before they could answer any of the questions we posed them, many of which came directly from unemployed residents that contacted the I-Team. "If you're going to fix the problem you actually have to fix it," said labor attorney Victor Forberger. "It can't be something that can be massaged through public relations. And to fix it means you actually have to change what you've been doing."Forberger represents unemployed residents appealing their denials. As of Feb. 8, 16,614 appeals were awaiting a hearing, according to the DWD.Forberger believes that number is actually higher. "There were appeals that were filed in November that actually weren't docketed until January," he said. "Right now it's taking the hearing office six weeks just to schedule," Forberger also said. The DWD declined to comment on camera about this issue. However, a spokesperson said 25 percent of all unemployment determinations were appealed in 2020. Typically that rate is closer to 10 percent. Since the start of last year, there have been more than 56,000 appeals filed with the DWD. As of Feb. 8, 2,070 appeals were scheduled on the calendar. The department has hired 10 administrative law judges to help with the increased caseload. They plan to hire 25 more. But the delays mean additional waiting for those who might not have seen a dime since the pandemic started nearly a year ago. Valerie Anderson worked in the foodservice industry when she was furloughed in the spring of last year. She's bounced around from waiting on call centers to delays due to adjudication and has been waiting on an appeal since December."It's very unacceptable to me and it feels a little irresponsible," Anderson said. "You, to actually feel like okay I'm getting somewhere and talk to someone and it's just still pushed to the side is kind of like a personal kick in the face."Angela Torres has waited since March as well. She won an appeal, and she lost another. She's still waiting on the state to figure out what she's owned."You can tell somebody, hey you won your appeal, but oh well, you got three-four weeks to really get their money," Torres said. "I've got $4 in my checking account $2 in my savings account."Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/third-space-brewing-increases-brewing-capacity-releases-new-ipa Local News urn:uuid:14552f96-46df-f213-227b-c905b72adec6 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 14:29:26 +0000 Third Space Brewing received two new ninety-barrel fermentation tanks, increasing its brewing capacity to 18,000 barrels per year. Third Space Brewing received two new ninety-barrel fermentation tanks, increasing its brewing capacity to 18,000 barrels per year.With more room for brew, Third Space Brewing is introducing a new IPA this year. 'Heavenly Haze' is 6.2% ABV and 20 IBU and will be sold in six-packs of 12-ounce cans. “While we have been known for flavor-packed beers since our opening, we have taken our time in joining the ‘haze craze’ because we wanted to adapt the style in a way that meets our strict quality standards and overall brewing philosophy of flavorful and balanced," said Third Space Brewing’s Co-Founder and Brewmaster Kevin Wright. Heavenly Haze will be released on tap and in six-packs at the Third Space Brewing taproom at 1505 W. St. Paul Avenue in Milwaukee starting Friday, Feb. 26.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/congresswoman-gwen-moore-calls-for-delayed-mail-delivery-answers Local News urn:uuid:14d6345c-0fa3-6ef8-79ca-066531903ee9 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 13:44:37 +0000 Congresswoman Gwen Moore is calling for answers following delayed mail delivery in Wisconsin's Fourth District. Congresswoman Gwen Moore is calling for answers following delayed mail delivery in Wisconsin's Fourth District.Moore acknowledged the "heroic efforts" of frotline postal workers with reports from constituents that some deliver mail as late as 8 p.m. However, Moore says delays are not getting better. “My constituents, along with millions around the country, rely on the Postal Service for timely and secure mail delivery to receive important medication, paychecks, and bills. I have received numerous calls to my office from constituents who are facing troubling issues, like late paychecks because of mail delays," said Moore in a letter to Eddie Masangcay, District Manager of Lakeland District U.S. Postal Service. Moore also said that the United States Postal Service is an essential service and that delivery items need to stay secure and timely. Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/i-team/i-team-diabetic-child-who-raised-20k-for-untrained-service-dog-gets-new-puppy-and-starts-over Local News urn:uuid:64414b1b-60ee-1c1d-0fe7-7f7e6707c51e Wed, 24 Feb 2021 13:02:38 +0000 Five-month-old, Shadow, will soon be Sophie Schmitt's new diabetic alert dog. The puppy will need two years of public access training, including scent work. Five-month-old, Shadow, will soon be Sophie Schmitt's new diabetic alert dog. The puppy will need two years of public access training, including scent work.Once fully trained, she will be able to alert the 10-year-old from Sheboygan, a Type 1 Diabetic, when her blood sugar starts getting to a dangerous level."The scent work is actually pretty basic. We're doing saliva vials that we're giving to the trainer and she's teaching low alerts first," said Becky, Sophie's mom.Shadow will learn how to put her paw on Sophie when Sophie's blood sugar starts to get low and she will nudge Sophie if her blood sugar is too high.For now, the English black lab needs basic puppy training, which Sophie is handling like a pro."Shadow, down!" Sophie tells Shadow."She listens when I call her unless there's bacon in the kitchen," Sophie said."The service dog work is going to be right around $20,000 for two years," Becky said.To pay for that, the family has a GoFundMe page and Sophie is back in the kitchen making more of the home-made dog treats she sold last year. Yes, Sophie has raised money for a service dog before.Before COVID-19 hit, she spent months raising $20,000 for Jacoby.Sophie thought Jacoby, a cream-colored lab, would be her diabetic alert dog.Last Spring, at the start of the pandemic, she and her mom picked up Jacoby from Service Dogs by Warren Retrievers or SDWR, a nonprofit in Virginia.Becky and Sophie say Jacoby wasn't potty trained and didn't know basic puppy skills."Why not try to train Jacoby? What was the process behind 'let's get a new dog here?'" The I-Team's Kristin Byrne asked Becky."Well, Jacoby is almost four years old and we don't know her past," Becky said."A lot of skittish behavior and a lot of anxiety," she said."Socially, she doesn't fit the profile to be a service dog," she continued. The Schmitt family kept Jacoby as a family pet instead.Back in November, the I-Team heard from families with similar stories in different states. They had special needs children and claim they raised more than $20,000 and either received an untrained dog from SDWR or never got a service dog from the company.Virginia's Attorney General filed a lawsuit against SDWR and over the summer, the company filed for bankruptcy.The personal attorney for the company's president told the I-Team he did nothing wrong and didn't scam anyone.Shadow has been a good distraction for Becky and Sophie and has provided comfort while everything works itself out in the court system.Sophie will be working with a new trainer and Becky says this time around the result will be different."She's not going to take our funds if Shadow doesn't become a diabetic alert dog," said Becky.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/open/were-open-big-frog-custom-t-shirts-and-more-turns-ideas-into-reality Local News urn:uuid:657eb7d1-9f40-89c1-2eb4-64eb9c787b13 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 12:37:07 +0000 At Big Frog Custom T-Shirts and More, Basil Bearer and his family turn your ideas into reality. At Big Frog Custom T-Shirts and More, Basil Bearer and his family turn your ideas into reality."It's a full-service custom garment decorations, almost anything you can wear we can print. Or find a solution to design or print on," says Basil, owner of Big Frog in Mequon.Whether you're looking to clothe the masses or a one of kind piece, Big Frog can get the job done."You can bring your garment in. Many times, we do that with embroidery, people have something specialized or something they want to wear, and we can go ahead and embroidery it for them as well," says Basil.When the pandemic initially stopped group gatherings, Basil wasn't sure what the future looked like. But thanks to other businesses, Big Frog started producing personalized masks and scrubs.The List: These Restaurants Are Offering Carryout, DeliveryAre You Open? Submit Your Business!The Rebound Milwaukee: Resources For Getting Back To Normal"We partnered with Scrubs and Above in Grafton, and they helped us a lot navigate the waters during the pandemic and find clients at that time that were in the medical field. So, we built off of that," says Basil.By finding ways to utilize everyone's specialties, Big Frog is the perfect example of how teamwork makes the dream work."I think, for the most part, any idea of competition went out the window during the pandemic, everybody knew they needed each other. So together it's one big team, one big family ad we are all working together to make it successful," says Basil.Something to keep in mind as we all try to get back to normal."You may be limited in what you can do, but you can make it a party by basically just getting t-shirts, hats, just something to make it a unique setting," says Basil.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/lifestyle/black-history-month/black-women-leading-way-in-creating-more-opportunities-in-milwaukee-workforce-for-people-of-color Local News urn:uuid:18921e5d-3bad-3c8a-c817-49b138683fe6 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 12:30:35 +0000 When looking at the city’s workforce, African Americans hold less than five percent of management positions. For black women, that number is even lower. Milwaukee has the fewest African Americans in private sector management positions in the country, according to a recent study done by UW-Milwaukee.When looking at the city’s workforce, African Americans hold less than five percent of management positions. For Black women, that number is even lower.Research also shows Black women are paid less for the same jobs, as their white counterparts.TMJ4's Katie Crowther sat down with three Black women working high-profile jobs in Milwaukee, to talk about what they are often up against, and how they’re trying to change it.To be in a room with Ray Hill, Fiesha Lynn Bell, and Jasmine Johnson is a privilege.They are three of Milwaukee’s most promising Black, female, young professionals. They are included in this year’s Milwaukee Business Journal’s 40 Under 40 list.But in each of their career journeys, they have routinely been the only Black women in the room. And all too often, they have been judged for getting there because of their race and gender, rather than their skills and performance.“We are all making history in our own unique ways,” said Bell.“As a Black woman, you’re going to have to show up and worker harder and be the most prepared in the room because you don’t have a second opportunity to lose credibility,” said Johnson.“First and foremost, I have what's needed and am the right person for this job, I just happen to be a Black woman,” Hill said. “We have to manage the perception of how we’re perceived versus who we really are.”Ray hill, born and raised on Milwaukee’s northside, works for CommonBond Communities, which provides homes and supportive services for those most in need.Hill is also a member of Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority’s Board of Directors.“I was a mom by 20, I was married by 22, and I graduated college at 24,” Hill said. “My path isn’t typical. I’ve been in meetings or sat in rooms where I have said the exact same thing the individual next to me said but because he’s louder, or white, or because he has the floor, he has the ability to own the statement.”Fiesha Lynn Bell, originally from Indianapolis, is with the Greater Milwaukee Foundation. She works to bring people together and raise money for critical community organizations, to try to solve some of our city’s most pressing issues."I want people to listen with the intent to understand what I’m saying, versus listening just to hear me speak, and know you have a young black woman at the table.”Jasmine Johnson, a single mom, was just named Vice President of Sales for iHeart Media. She also serves on a number of local boards, and leads the United Way of Greater Milwaukee and Waukesha County’s Diversity Leadership Society. Johnson grew up in Sherman Park."I am one of many Milwaukee natives who has left the city that has raised me multiple times, to gain opportunities to grow professionally, because they were not available to me here.” But these women say that’s changing. Largely due to the trail they’re continuing to blaze.Wisconsin specifically is starting to turn,” Hill said. “Black and brown men and women able to show up 100 percent now. Sometimes we’d have to change who we were or how we come across, just to be taken seriously.”“We have this moment where people are looking for us to have a voice, they want to hear what we have to say, which is awesome, but it also provides its own pressures,” Bell said. “One Black person in a company can’t be the voice for all Black people.”Another pressure they often face is speaking-up when they witness or experience racism or sexism in the workplace. Whether it's blatant, or in the form of implicit bias.“I think it happens more often than we share, and we really need to continue to educate others,” Hill said.“Milwaukee has so much potential, but we all have to be willing to have those uncomfortable conversations, but lead with grace,” Johnson said. “You can’t be afraid of conflict, or standing up for what is right, or being authentically yourself. They can be respectful teaching moments.”But those teaching moments and touch conversations can’t just fall on black women. They need allies actively advocating for them in the corporate world too.“It takes like-motivated, not just like-minded people, to be able to advance that work,” Johnson said.It’s work they do with the goal of paving a better path, and more leadership roles for the next young women of color."I’m excited for the future here,” Hill said. “As individuals in our age group are moving into director and executive roles, we’re looking for the next generation to be very diverse in their backgrounds. That will be the norm.”“It’s important for young women of color to know, they don’t have to check every box, or be perfect in every way, to get opportunities and exposure,” Bell said.“We are at a critical, pivotal time and place, where we can’t afford to miss the moment for ourselves and the generations coming behind us,” Johnson said. “We were able to rise into these opportunities with the help of mentors, now we are those mentors. It’s full circle.”Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/weather/forecast/todays-forecast/mild-start-wednesday-with-slight-chance-for-afternoon-rain-snow Local News urn:uuid:5e98fc2d-5cd5-6ffe-2045-4a9b4c51fabf Wed, 24 Feb 2021 11:20:59 +0000 Temperatures will fall back into the upper 30s this afternoon along with a northwest breeze gusting over 25 mph. There is also a very slight chance of rain and snow showers through the afternoon. High temperatures ended up being close to 50 degrees yesterday and it's still mild this morning! Temperatures should reach the middle 40s later this morning, before a cold front swings through around lunchtime. Temperatures will fall back into the upper 30s this afternoon along with a northwest breeze gusting over 25 mph. There is also a very slight chance of rain and snow showers through the afternoon.It will be a little cooler on Thursday and Friday but mostly sunny. We're tracking a quick moving system for late Friday night and into Saturday morning. A wintry mix is likely, with only minor slushy snow accumulation expected at this time. A brief shot of winter cold moves in next Monday.Check The Interactive Radar7-Day ForecastActive Weather AlertsTODAY: Partly Cloudy. Breezy & Mild Slight Ch. PM Rain/Snow ShowersHigh: 44Wind: NW 10-20 mphTONIGHT: Partly CloudyLow: 25Wind: NW 5-10 mphTHURSDAY: Mostly SunnyHigh: 37FRIDAY: Mostly Sunny & MildHigh: 40SATURDAY: Snow/Wintry Mix Early & Breezy. Bec. Mostly Sunny & MildHigh: 42SUNDAY: Mostly Cloudy and MildHigh: 43 https://www.tmj4.com/weather/forecast/todays-forecast/mild-start-wednesday-with-slight-chance-for-afternoon-rain-snow Local News urn:uuid:1394079f-3f12-b203-4b9e-33f66c4a26fc Wed, 24 Feb 2021 11:20:59 +0000 We had a few clouds today and we will be partly cloudy tonight with lows dropping into the teens inland to low 20s along the lake. A cold front shifted the winds to the NW today and they gusted over 25 mph at times, but we stayed in the upper 30s to lower 40s, so the melting has continued. We had a few clouds today and we will be partly cloudy tonight with lows dropping into the teens inland to low 20s along the lake. Those puddles will freeze, so watch out for slick spots in the morning. Thursday is sunny, breezy and pleasant with highs in the mid to upper 30s.Friday is windy and back into the low 40s with a SW wind to 25 mph. Clouds increase ahead of the next storm system that mainly affects central and northern WI with snow. We will have a light wintry mix late Friday night into early Saturday morning with less than a half-inch of snow. Any accumulation we get will quickly melt with highs in the low to mid-40s Saturday afternoon. Sunday morning will see a dusting of light snow and then warm up to near 40 again with sunshine in the afternoon.Check The Interactive Radar7-Day ForecastActive Weather AlertsTONIGHT: Partly cloudy and frostyLow 23 Lakefront...18 inlandWind: WNW 5-10 mphTHURSDAY: Mostly sunny, breezy and pleasantHigh: 38Wind: WSW 10-20 mphFRIDAY: Partly cloudy, windy and mild...wintry mix by late eveningHigh: 41Wind: SW 15-25 mphSATURDAY: Morning wintry mix, windy and mildHigh: 44Wind: SW 15-20 mphSUNDAY: AM wintry mix, then partly cloudyHigh: 42Wind: NW 5-10 mphMONDAY: Mostly sunny, windy and colderHigh: 31Wind: NW 15-30 mph https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/2-southeast-wisconsin-girls-become-some-of-the-first-female-eagle-scouts Local News urn:uuid:9795cb1b-b252-4a9d-4fdf-258d9fca3501 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 05:03:02 +0000 Two local girls made history among the first female eagle scout class of the Boys Scouts of America. Two local girls made history among the first female eagle scout class of the Boys Scouts of America.Jaisyn Daher proudly shows off the twenty-nine merit badges she's earned as a scout with Boy Scouts of America troop 2002."My favorite one was emergency preparedness," said Eagle scout Jaisyn Daher.But even with a decorated sash representing life skills and achievements, she is most proud to be an elite eagle scout - the prestigious rank only a few scouts can claim and the first time in scout history that includes girls. Across the nation just under a thousand young ladies accomplished this notable achievement in just 24 months.14-year-old Anastasia Wischki is also among the trailblazing class."I know there were other girls but meeting them in person, it's been a bonding experience even though its been so short."Anastasia recalls it was tagging along with her brother on his journey to become an eagle scout which ignited her interest even before girls were allowed to join BSA."Actually got to participate in a competition with him and it was a fire building competition with one match and the sister of another scout. We were the only ones able to start the fire. That was my spark."Anastasia's community service project was a serenity garden. Jaisyn designed an American flag collection box."It's a large mail dropbox you can bring your flags that need to be retired," said Jaisyn Daher.Projects that taught them life lessons.Now, these young ladies stand among U.S. Senators, astronauts and inspirational leaders in the organization's century-old tradition."What seems impossible really is possible. Find your allies, your assets, is a better word if you are passionate about it. Don't give up on it," advises Wischki.Sisters Annie and Carole Scheidt also among local scouts to achieve this high honor.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/sports/basketball/milwaukee-bucks/bucks-win-139-112-in-timberwolves-coach-chris-finchs-debut Local News urn:uuid:f0e7af8f-e2b4-79bb-b415-dfc52eb66321 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 04:36:13 +0000 Giannis Antetokoumpo had 37 points, eight rebounds and eight assists as the Milwaukee Bucks beat Minnesota 139-112 on Tuesday to spoil new Timberwolves coach Chris Finch’s debut. MILWAUKEE (AP) — Giannis Antetokoumpo had 37 points, eight rebounds and eight assists as the Milwaukee Bucks beat Minnesota 139-112 on Tuesday to spoil new Timberwolves coach Chris Finch’s debut. Bryn Forbes added a season-high 23 points as the Bucks won their third straight and had seven players score in double figures. The Bucks shot 53.5% overall and went 20 of 42 from 3-point range. Karl-Anthony Towns and Malik Beasley each scored 26 for Minnesota. The Timberwolves lost their fifth straight and ninth in their last 10 games as their record fell to an NBA-worst 7-25.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/education/marquette-university-focuses-on-increasing-diversity-in-nursing-with-31-million-donation Local News urn:uuid:6769efe5-8cc7-1110-d9ce-fc9db018e65c Wed, 24 Feb 2021 04:15:06 +0000 A $31 million donation to Marquette University will go towards increasing diversity and inclusion in its nursing program. A $31 million donation to Marquette University will go towards increasing diversity and inclusion in its nursing program. The donation comes from alumni Darren and Terry Jackson, and starting this fall it will provide scholarships to nursing students from diverse backgrounds. Later on, the University says it will provide up to 80 scholarships each year. The goal is to produce 5,000 nurses over the next ten years, with 1,000 of them being from diverse backgrounds. The donation will also allow the nursing program to provide telehealth education, as well as a teaching program to help build up nursing faculty. Jasmine Hernandez graduated from Marquette's nursing program last May in the middle of the pandemic. She's now a nurse at Children's Hospital of Wisconsin. "I was looking forward to graduation from the moment I stepped on campus," Hernandez said. "That was just a huge milestone, not only for me but for my parents. They’ve made so, so many sacrifices for me." According to a 2020 survey from the Wisconsin Center for Nursing, Hispanic, African American, and Asian American nurses each make up a little more than two percent of the state's workforce. The survey shows more than 93 percent of Wisconsin nurses are white. "When we have a workforce that doesn’t mirror the populations we serve, we have healthcare disparities that exist, so outcomes will be worse," said College of Nursing Dean Janet Krejci. "Increasing our workforce diversity is going to increase our patient outcomes. We know that racism has created healthcare inequities, we know that, and that is highlighted with COVID-19." Hernandez said she believes this effort will help more students like her showcase their heritage and make a difference in health. She says Marquette helped her find her voice. "I think it can be hard when you are any type of minority student to kind of feel seen sometimes, or feel heard, that your experiences matter," Hernandez said. "So I think it was always really important for me that I always felt that there. I always felt a sense of community, a sense of mentorship." Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/usps-selects-oshkosh-defense-to-build-greener-mail-truck Local News urn:uuid:5be7004f-2a2b-59e8-5229-22adcccc7f91 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 02:30:57 +0000 The U.S. Postal Service says it has chosen Oshkosh Defense to build its next-generation mail-delivery vehicle. WASHINGTON (AP) — The U.S. Postal Service says it has chosen Oshkosh Defense to build its next-generation mail-delivery vehicle. It's part of an effort to make the USPS more environmentally friendly by switching a portion of its massive fleet to electric vehicles. Wisconsin-based Oshkosh Defense will assemble 50,000 to 165,000 of the new Next Generation Delivery Vehicles at its existing U.S. manufacturing facilities. Oshkosh will get an initial $482 million in the contract, which the USPS described as the first part of a multibillion-dollar 10-year effort to replace its delivery vehicle fleet. It's a big miss for the electric-vehicle startup Workhorse Group, which put in an all-electric bid for the vehicles. Workhorse's stock fell more than 47%.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/coronavirus/emergency-grants-available-for-uw-milwaukee-students Local News urn:uuid:eb1afe9e-bf7f-d82c-f087-139b39ff9d00 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 02:09:51 +0000 UW-Milwaukee has been given $8.5 million via the CARES Act to help students who have emergency expenses due to COVID-19, the university announced Monday. UW-Milwaukee has been given $8.5 million via the CARES Act to help students who have emergency expenses due to COVID-19, the university announced Monday.The expenses are to help cover the cost of attending the university, including tuition, food, housing, health care and child care.To qualify for a Higher Education Emergency Relief grant, you must:Have incurred emergency expenses due to COVID-19 on or after Dec. 27, 2020. Eligible expenses include tuition, food, housing, health care and child care for the Spring 2021 term.Have been enrolled in a degree-seeking program for the Spring 2021 term at the conclusion of the add/drop period on Feb. 7, 2021.Have filed a 2020-21 Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) in order to document being a U.S. citizen or eligible noncitizen. If you have not already completed a FAFSA, you should do so immediately at fafsa.gov as the results must be received by UWM no later than March 5, 2021. If you meet the qualifications, you can complete a short grant application. Grants will be determined in part by how many applications are received. All applications submitted by 8 a.m. March 9, 2021 will be considered.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/wisconsinites-turn-to-billboards-in-hopes-of-finding-a-living-kidney-donor Local News urn:uuid:0ca676d2-893d-d8c0-e44e-c670ae34e1f4 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 00:24:55 +0000 Wisconsinites are becoming their own advocates when it comes to finding a healthy match for a kidney donation. Some are hoping to catch anyone's attention even as they drive. Wisconsinites are becoming their own advocates when it comes to finding a healthy match for a kidney donation. Some are hoping to catch anyone's attention even as they drive.You may have seen billboards pop up around Milwaukee showing people like Nicole desperately looking for a living kidney donation.74-year-old Jim Ippolite never thought he'd be in the same position until he had a health emergency last May that put him on dialysis for four months."Acute kidney failure. I have a small percentage of kidney function left," said Jim.A father and grandfather, Jim considered himself relatively healthy, avoiding red meat, eating leafy greens, and avoiding smoking and alcohol. However, Jim said in his case consuming too many foods high in oxalate like leafy greens, green tea, and chocolate possibly combined with a gout medication contributed to his kidney failure.Jim and his family exhausted social media and their networks to find a donor. So far they have had eight rejections."Unfortunately, you may be aware our society isn't the healthiest in the world, and donor criteria are extremely strict," said Jim.So he and his family put up billboards for a couple of weeks that say "My grandpa needs a kidney" along with contact information."It hasn't been successful, but we're going into another month so hopefully we'll get something from that," said Jim."Just because you’re a family member that doesn’t always mean that the blood types or tissue types are perfect matches. That’s where a lot of families go to say 'okay we got to see if other people are willing to donate. We got to go through the registry,' and that’s why you see those billboards and things like that come in," said Alyse Bailey, a board member with the National Kidney Foundation of Wisconsin and living kidney donor herself.The National Kidney Foundation of Wisconsin reported the state has 1,274 people waiting for a kidney one.Living donations are ideal because they last twice as long as a deceased donation.Bailey said the average wait time for a first-time kidney transplant is 3.5 years. In the United States, 33 percent of people are at risk for kidney disease. While high blood pressure and diabetes can be contributing factors, it's believed COVID-19 will also play into increasing risk."Everybody who is willing to donate look into it. It's a beautiful amazing thing that we can do to give a part of our bodies to save another person. It’s an amazing thing that you see both recipients and donors thriving," said Bailey.In the meantime, Jim remains positive that a healthy donor match will come through."It kind of just gives you your life back and that's what I'm looking forward to," said Jim.Advocates say both kidney donation recipients and donors thrive after a transplant. For more information on how to become a donor head to kidneywi.org.To learn more about Jim head to jimippolite.com.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/wisconsinites-turn-to-billboards-in-hopes-of-finding-a-living-kidney-donor Local News urn:uuid:2cfc67f5-cff5-186b-9c96-8a16cb964244 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 00:24:55 +0000 Wisconsinites are becoming their own advocates when it comes to finding a healthy match for a kidney donation. Some are hoping to catch anyone's attention even as they drive. Wisconsinites are becoming their own advocates when it comes to finding a healthy match for a kidney donation. Some are hoping to catch anyone's attention even as they drive.You may have seen billboards pop up around Milwaukee showing people like Nicole desperately looking for a living kidney donation.74-year-old Jim Ippolite never thought he'd be in the same position until he had a health emergency last May that put him on dialysis for four months."Acute kidney failure. I have a small percentage of kidney function left," said Jim.A father and grandfather, Jim considered himself relatively healthy, avoiding red meat, eating leafy greens, and avoiding smoking and alcohol. However, Jim said in his case consuming too many foods high in oxalate like leafy greens, green tea, and chocolate possibly combined with a gout medication contributed to his kidney failure.Jim and his family exhausted social media and their networks to find a donor. So far they have had eight rejections."Unfortunately, you may be aware our society isn't the healthiest in the world, and donor criteria are extremely strict," said Jim.So he and his family put up billboards for a couple of weeks that say "My grandpa needs a kidney" along with contact information."It hasn't been successful, but we're going into another month so hopefully we'll get something from that," said Jim."Just because you’re a family member that doesn’t always mean that the blood types or tissue types are perfect matches. That’s where a lot of families go to say 'okay we got to see if other people are willing to donate. We got to go through the registry,' and that’s why you see those billboards and things like that come in," said Alyse Bailey, a board member with the National Kidney Foundation of Wisconsin and living kidney donor herself.The National Kidney Foundation of Wisconsin reported the state has 1,274 people waiting for a kidney one.Living donations are ideal because they last twice as long as a deceased donation.Bailey said the average wait time for a first-time kidney transplant is 3.5 years. In the United States, 33 percent of people are at risk for kidney disease. While high blood pressure and diabetes can be contributing factors, it's believed COVID-19 will also play into increasing risk."Everybody who is willing to donate look into it. It's a beautiful amazing thing that we can do to give a part of our bodies to save another person. It’s an amazing thing that you see both recipients and donors thriving," said Bailey.In the meantime, Jim remains positive that a healthy donor match will come through."It kind of just gives you your life back and that's what I'm looking forward to," said Jim.Advocates say both kidney donation recipients and donors thrive after a transplant. For more information on how to become a donor head to kidneywi.org.To learn more about Jim head to jimippolite.com.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/city-of-milwaukee-to-distribute-100k-in-mini-grant-money-to-curb-reckless-driving Local News urn:uuid:41293771-13b4-f95d-f656-c52a0eaa9171 Wed, 24 Feb 2021 00:17:20 +0000 Milwaukee's Department of Public Works is working to fund neighborhood efforts to slow down reckless drivers. Applications are due March 15. Milwaukee's Department of Public Works is working to fund neighborhood efforts to slow down reckless drivers.It’s no secret reckless driving in the City of Milwaukee is a serious issue. It’s been that way for years.DPW is currently taking plan submissions for a grant program to help neighborhoods find ways to make their streets safer.“I got boulders put all around the front. You can’t see it due to the snow,” said Rosetta Lane, who said her house has been hit by speeding cars numerous times.Lane’s landscaping tells a story, from the damaged bark on her front tree, to the boulders bulging out of the snow. It's all to protect her home after five different car crashes on 48th and Capitol ended right on her property.“After numerous times, my insurance company said you ought to just take that fence down,” Lane said.So her fence came down and the boulders were placed.Stories like Lane’s are exactly why the DPW has earmarked $100,000 from the city budget to help neighborhood organizations fight reckless driving through grants.One to five thousand dollars for groups coming up with a plan, or a campaign to fight the issue.“We’re looking for things that spread awareness. Banners, yard signs, brochures and getting creative doing social media and events out on the streets," said Mike Amsder, the Multimodal Transportation Manager for DPW.Through Feb. 22, Milwaukee Police have issued 38 reckless driving citations. It's down significantly from 89 the year prior within the same time frame.“We have a lot of speeding, but you have to take that away from them. Like a kid, you have to smack them on the hand,” said Pharoh, a Milwaukee residentAlderman Michael Murphy spearheaded the effort to turn things around, hoping this, alongside other efforts, gets speeders thinking twice.“I think people need to be mindful of what’s important in life, and it's certainly not saving a few minutes of time,” Murphy said.Grant applications are due Feb. 15.For more information, visit DPW’s website here.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/city-of-milwaukee-to-distribute-100k-in-mini-grant-money-to-curb-reckless-driving Local News urn:uuid:b273cb83-4cac-f77f-c023-729d016a062b Wed, 24 Feb 2021 00:17:20 +0000 Milwaukee's Department of Public Works is working to fund neighborhood efforts to slow down reckless drivers. Applications are due March 15. Milwaukee's Department of Public Works is working to fund neighborhood efforts to slow down reckless drivers.It’s no secret reckless driving in the City of Milwaukee is a serious issue. It’s been that way for years.DPW is currently taking plan submissions for a grant program to help neighborhoods find ways to make their streets safer.“I got boulders put all around the front. You can’t see it due to the snow,” said Rosetta Lane, who said her house has been hit by speeding cars numerous times.Lane’s landscaping tells a story, from the damaged bark on her front tree, to the boulders bulging out of the snow. It's all to protect her home after five different car crashes on 48th and Capitol ended right on her property.“After numerous times, my insurance company said you ought to just take that fence down,” Lane said.So her fence came down and the boulders were placed.Stories like Lane’s are exactly why the DPW has earmarked $100,000 from the city budget to help neighborhood organizations fight reckless driving through grants.One to five thousand dollars for groups coming up with a plan, or a campaign to fight the issue.“We’re looking for things that spread awareness. Banners, yard signs, brochures and getting creative doing social media and events out on the streets," said Mike Amsder, the Multimodal Transportation Manager for DPW.Through Feb. 22, Milwaukee Police have issued 38 reckless driving citations. It's down significantly from 89 the year prior within the same time frame.“We have a lot of speeding, but you have to take that away from them. Like a kid, you have to smack them on the hand,” said Pharoh, a Milwaukee residentAlderman Michael Murphy spearheaded the effort to turn things around, hoping this, alongside other efforts, gets speeders thinking twice.“I think people need to be mindful of what’s important in life, and it's certainly not saving a few minutes of time,” Murphy said.Grant applications are due March. 15.For more information, visit DPW’s website here.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/business-is-booming-for-milwaukee-company-that-hires-adults-with-disabilities Local News urn:uuid:73f72cae-dbfd-88ae-eb5b-5626ac0702df Wed, 24 Feb 2021 00:01:44 +0000 Inside a Milwaukee warehouse business goes on as one would expect. It would appear this is an average warehouse, but it's not. Many of the employees inside are adults with disabilities. Inside a Milwaukee warehouse, business goes on as one would expect. People are bustling inside the light assembly section. In the kitchen, hands are moving fast to fulfill new orders. It would appear this is an average warehouse, but it's not. Many of the employees inside are adults with disabilities.The Eisenhower Center in Milwaukee specializes in vocational rehabilitation for adults with disabilities. "Our goal is to teach inspire and train people to fulfill their full potential," CEO of the Eisenhower Center David Ordan said.We're Open: A new jazz hotspot in MilwaukeeIt's going really well too. In fact, it's almost going too well."Right now we have the best problem you could have. We almost have too much business," Ordan said.Specifically in the kitchen department. The Eisenhower Center set up a dog treat company called Ike's Gourmet. They sell organic dog treats. It's all made on-site by their employees.Eventually, sales began to pick up. Then another local dog treat maker decided to subcontract them to fulfill their orders. The business has been booming recently."Booming is really tired. I’m really tired, but I can work over that," Douglas Staf, a baker with Ike's Gourmet, said.It keeps Staf hard at work as he works on baking all the treats. He gets some help from his partner, Amy James."It’s fun. I like doing stuff with food," she said with sign language. Cindy Freeman, an intern for the Eisenhower Center, translates what Amy said. The Eisenhower Center accommodates people with all different levels of abilities. No one is left out."So my goal is to take us from a safety net to a rocket ship," Ordan said.Now the Eisenhower Center is trying to figure out how to scale up its operation. “The only thing that is stopping us from taking this national and really taking off is a professional kitchen with professional equipment," Ordan said.To help, go to the Eisenhower Center website or go to Ike's Gourmet to order some treats for your dog.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/milwaukee-organization-ships-more-than-100k-cans-of-water-to-help-texans-impacted-by-winter-storms Local News urn:uuid:33f7c2f8-902b-8f29-434e-d23e9990c34c Tue, 23 Feb 2021 22:56:09 +0000 A southeast Wisconsin based non-profit, CannedWater4Kids, packed up the first of three shipments of water headed to Conroe, Texas on Tuesday. A southeast Wisconsin based non-profit, CannedWater4Kids, packed up the first of three shipments of water headed to Conroe, Texas on Tuesday. The organization has sent canned water across the country, and the world, after natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes strike. This time, founder Greg Stromberg knew help was needed in Texas following the devastating winter storms that left many without access to electricity or clean water. "The children down there that are suffering from exposure to the cold and dehydration, we just felt we needed to figure something out,” Stromberg said. "When people are hurting, why wouldn’t you? I mean it’s the human thing to do, isn’t it? And like I said, I have a family and I look at my kids and my grandchildren and I just, how can you say no?”In total, CannedWater4Kids will send approximately 100,800 cans of water to a food bank in Conroe, Texas. Along with Tuesday's shipment, two more shipments are expected to head out in the coming days.Doris Shneidman knows first hand just how much that help is needed.Shenidman is from Shorewood, but has spent the last four winters in Austin, Texas with family. While escaping Wisconsin winters, she hardly thought she'd ever find herself in the middle of a historic winter storm down south. "It was very scary to know all the people who had a new baby, or a senior who was dependent on electricity for a medical device. It was pretty scary," Shenidman said. Shenidman said she was without electricity for about four days. Luckily, her son brought her a generator to help keep the lights on. However, not much could be done about the boil water notice her neighborhood was under. That notice was just lifted on Tuesday.But despite the tragedy many families faced, Shenidman said she saw neighbors coming together, whether it was cooking a hot meal for one another or figuring out how to light a stove without electricity. And, when asked about the help her Wisconsin neighbors are sending in the form of canned water, Shenidman said she feels "very proud."Shenidman also mentioned that the Central Texas Food Bank is in need of donations, you can help by clicking here.And if you want to support CannedWater4Kids, you can do that here.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/homicide-charges-referred-for-kenosha-resident-in-mysterious-death-of-gia-m-martin Local News urn:uuid:2b9c3151-ceab-27c0-6fae-c171e3ae3a7b Tue, 23 Feb 2021 22:50:06 +0000 Kenosha police are referring homicide charges against a 39-year-old Kenosha resident in connection to the death of Gia M. Martin, who was reported missing and subsequently found dead three weeks later. Kenosha police are referring homicide charges against a 39-year-old Kenosha resident in connection to the death of Gia M. Martin, who was reported missing and subsequently found dead three weeks later.KPD announced Tuesday they are referring 1st-degree intentional homicide to the Kenosha County District's Office for Roderick L. Smith. Additional pending charges include hiding a corpse, felon in possession of a firearm and obstructing an investigation, according to a statement.KPD did not release any other details on the case on Tuesday. The file has yet to be included in online court records.Gia M. Martin, 40, was reported missing on Jan. 26. At the time, officers had little information to work off of, police say.The following day, the case was assigned to the department's detective bureau, but the investigation did not find any leads regarding Martin's whereabouts.Then almost three weeks later, on Feb. 14, Martin was found dead. The police department has since launched a death investigation. There is no danger to the public, KPD says.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/as-500-wisconsin-farms-disappear-a-fremont-family-battles-to-keep-theirs-running-amid-declining-sales Local News urn:uuid:5a5d136b-e414-179f-c22e-a5237d9f23f8 Tue, 23 Feb 2021 22:38:30 +0000 According to new numbers released by the USDA, in 2020, there were 64,400 total farms throughout the state, which is 500 less than the prior year. FREMONT, Wis. (NBC 26) -- The definition of Wisconsin as America's Dairyland is continuously changing, year after year."It makes me sick to be darn truthful about it," Hillside Dairy Farm co-owner Mary Rieckmann said. Mary and her husband John bought their farm in 1964. But times, and their fortunes, have changed."Right now, we're in debt for over $5,000 for a light bill," Mary said. "But the only thing that saves us is they can't shut it off."According to new numbers released by the USDA, in 2020, there were 64,400 total farms throughout the state, which is 500 less than the prior year. Of the ones that closed, 300 of them are considered small operations that make little to no profit, like the Rieckmann's farm.With only 6 active Covid cases, Oneida Nation vaccinates over half of its community; testing numbers down"They've [farmers] just been fighting like hell to try and keep things going," Mary said. "They're like us. We're not making anything."And because they're in debt, the Rieckmann's are afraid their dairy farm will close along with the others."The feed and the fuel and everything just is skyrocketing," John said. "The milk goes down; it goes the other way."But over 2,000 farms making over a million in sales each year stayed open. With only around 40 cows, it's been hard for the Rieckmann's to keep up."I can't even imagine giving it up," Mary said. "I don't know. Maybe I won't live long enough to see it."The USDA says over 28,000 Wisconsin farms are either in debt or selling less than $10,000 in product."I always said I'd like to see it [the debt] paid before I die," Mary said. "But whether the lord is gonna help me out with that or not, I don't know."The Rieckmann's say they know the odds are stacked against them to keep their dairy farm running. But that doesn't matter to them. "I work 16 to 18 hours a day and you try to keep going as much as you can," John said. "I ain't gonna give up.""You literally have to love farming in order to keep going," Mary said. "It's a hard life, but it's a good life."If you are interested in finding ways to help, call Hillside Dairy at 920-667-4210. https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/ex-wisconsin-receiver-cephus-sues-school-over-2018-expulsion Local News urn:uuid:1414793f-918e-bb37-9415-a46fcd268e2d Tue, 23 Feb 2021 22:32:04 +0000 Former Wisconsin wide receiver Quintez Cephus is suing the university over a sexual assault investigation that resulted in his temporary expulsion in 2018. MILWAUKEE (AP) — Former Wisconsin wide receiver Quintez Cephus is suing the university over a sexual assault investigation that resulted in his temporary expulsion in 2018. Cephus seeks unspecified damages in his federal lawsuit filed Tuesday. He accuses the school of breach of contract and of violating his due process rights. Cephus was suspended from the Badgers football team in August 2018 and was expelled from the University of Wisconsin for violating its nonacademic misconduct code as part of a Title IX investigation following his arrest on sexual assault charges. He was reinstated after being acquitted at trial. University officials didn't immediately respond to an email seeking comment about the lawsuit.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/coronavirus/pewaukee-man-pleads-guilty-to-fraudulently-getting-ppp-loans Local News urn:uuid:22eee5d3-0617-a1b8-6a12-786ced8ad156 Tue, 23 Feb 2021 21:13:00 +0000 A suburban Milwaukee man accused of illegally obtaining more than $1 million in federal loans meant for COVID-19 relief has pleaded guilty in federal court. MILWAUKEE (AP) — A suburban Milwaukee man accused of illegally obtaining more than $1 million in federal loans meant for COVID-19 relief has pleaded guilty in federal court. Thomas E. Smith, of Pewaukee, pleaded guilty Tuesday to one count of bank fraud. Authorities say the 46-year-old Smith fraudulently sought more than $1.2 million in Paycheck Protection Program loans through applications to an insured financial institution on behalf of eight different companies. Court documents show that the loan applications contained numerous false and misleading statements about the companies’ respective payroll expenses, which led the financial institution to fund the loans. Smith then directed his co-conspirators to send him portions of the PPP funds within days of receiving them.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/sports/baseball/milwaukee-brewers/travis-shaw-returns-to-brewers-with-minor-league-deal Local News urn:uuid:31e0292e-0ae1-7128-f0cf-50c61e71b736 Tue, 23 Feb 2021 20:59:00 +0000 Travis Shaw is back in Milwaukee to give the Brewers one more option for their unsettled situation at third base. Travis Shaw is back in Milwaukee to give the Brewers one more option for their unsettled situation at third base. Shaw has signed a minor league contract with the Brewers that includes an invitation to major-league camp. Shaw last played for the Brewers from 2017-19. He had two productive seasons with the Brewers from 2017-18 before tailing off dramatically in 2019. Shaw spent the 2020 season with the Toronto Blue Jays. The Brewers enter spring training without a clear-cut starting third baseman.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/coronavirus/gov-evers-orders-flags-at-half-staff-in-honor-of-those-who-died-from-covid-19 Local News urn:uuid:91e3a61f-13a9-6687-1ef0-be38bc251691 Tue, 23 Feb 2021 20:39:50 +0000 Gov. Tony Evers has ordered flags at half staff in honor of the more than 6,300 Wisconsin residents and half a million Americans who have died due to COVID-19. Gov. Tony Evers has ordered flags at half staff in honor of the more than 6,300 Wisconsin residents and half a million Americans who have died due to COVID-19.In effect simultaneously with President Joe Biden's order, flags must be lowered to half staff in Wisconsin effective immediately and will end at sunset Friday, Feb. 26.“With heavy hearts, we join our fellow Wisconsinites and Americans who are mourning the loss of someone they love and who, amid unimaginable challenges, have had to endure unfathomable grief this past year," according to a statement credited to Gov. Evers. "We must reaffirm our resolve to prevent further spread of COVID-19, save lives, and to defeat this pandemic together."The executive order comes days after Assembly Speaker Robin Vos called for flags to be flown at half staff in honor of radio personality and conservative icon Rush Limbaugh, who passed away last week.The U.S. has recorded the highest death toll due to the coronavirus in the world. Globally, at least 2.4 million people have died from the virus since the pandemic began.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.kenoshanews.com/news/local/boyfriend-expected-to-be-charged-in-death-of-kenosha-woman-who-had-been-reported-missing/article_5023f349-c229-555b-b2d3-c82084bf6906.html www.wiscnews.com - RSS Results in news of type article urn:uuid:3f1655fd-2a67-af88-1bd0-abd31503a3c1 Tue, 23 Feb 2021 19:30:00 +0000 The boyfriend of a Kenosha woman found dead at her home after being reported missing weeks before is expected to be charged with her death. https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/winter-ritual-of-sturgeon-fishing-continues-amid-pandemic Local News urn:uuid:7cb0fc67-9ab5-142f-3ca8-891de59a22a3 Tue, 23 Feb 2021 19:19:09 +0000 Lake Winnebago in February is a place so frozen time seems to stand still. Watch Steve Chamraz's full story tonight at 10 p.m. Lake Winnebago in February is a place so frozen time seems to stand still.That's especially true if you're Tim Soda, watching the same patch of ice-cold water for hours at a stretch."Who would stare down a hole for six hours a day for 16 days straight," Soda said without taking his eyes off a hole in the ice the size of a car's door.Soda is focused and waiting to throw a spear at a sturgeon, a winter ritual in Wisconsin for the heartiest of the hearty."I don't miss a minute staring down the hole," Soda said. "Not until I get one, anyhow."For as many as 16 days each February, this waiting game plays out in tiny shacks scattered across the ice of Lake Winnebago.Like bar dice or sheepshead, sturgeon spearing belongs to us.DNR Warden Lt. Chris Shea watches over a winter ritual without peer."This is pretty much it when it comes to sturgeon and these fish are huge prehistoric basically monsters that are still here in the system," Shea said.Hunting these fish is a passion Wisconsin treats like an heirloom."Grandpa's passed down to his son to his son and how the grandkids are out here as well," Shea said.Sturgeon spearing was part of life in the Great Lakes long before the first European settlers. The Menominee Tribe was especially good at catching fish on the end of a spike.French explorers caught on and the practice exploded.By 1915, sturgeon were over-fished, so the state stopped all harvesting. The sturgeon roared back and so did the spearers.This year, thousands of people will brave the elements and spend hours in small, dark shacks for the chance to chuck a spear at a fish 16 feet deep.If all that doesn't make this hard enough, this year has another complication. Even tradition is not immune to the pandemic.That means drive-thru registration stations where nobody gets too close to the latest catch, though the feeling of scoring a sturgeon remains the same.Rick Zwiers of Freedom landed a fish that weighed in at 69.9 pounds."I turned the spear and threw it. Thought I missed until he started pulling back and then he was on there," said Zwiers.Tim Soda is ready to make a weekend of it."If we don't see one today, we'll move again tomorrow morning," he said. "Sometimes, you only gotta move 50 feet, ya know? Ya just don't know."A lesson learned from years of experience.No matter how long you stare at the water, the best lure is a whole lot of luck.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.wiscnews.com/news/watch-now-adorable-polar-bear-cub-demands-moms-attention-at-denmark-zoo/article_c16a697a-c584-51c7-920c-b59b94a97825.html www.wiscnews.com - RSS Results in news of type article urn:uuid:9094a434-712c-ae1b-4ff5-e9d892c9d9e7 Tue, 23 Feb 2021 17:15:00 +0000 Copenhagen Zoo has released a video of the female polar bear cub Imaq and her mother Lynn enjoying the snow. https://www.tmj4.com/news/coronavirus/evers-dhs-announce-four-more-community-based-vaccination-clinics-including-in-racine-county Local News urn:uuid:3092b2aa-384e-41bf-e51a-ac7c3b424168 Tue, 23 Feb 2021 16:40:53 +0000 There will be four more community-based vaccination clinics in Wisconsin, Gov. Tony Evers and the Department of Health Services announced Tuesday morning. There will be four more community-based vaccination clinics in Wisconsin, Gov. Tony Evers and the Department of Health Services announced Tuesday morning. The four clinics will be located in La Crosse, Racine, Marathon counties, as well as one split between Douglas and Barron counties. The locations are expected to open with the next couple of months. The Rebound Milwaukee: Resources For Getting Back To NormalWe're Open: These Restaurants Are Still Offering Carryout And Delivery“Our first week of the DHS community-based vaccination clinic at Rock County was a success and we are excited to continue launching more of these community clinics across Wisconsin,” said Evers. “We are continuing to work to get vaccine doses across our state as soon as we have doses available. These community-based sites are going to be critical to our work making sure that Wisconsinites can get vaccinated so we can put this pandemic behind us.”The clinics are through a collaboration between AMI Expeditionary Healthcare, the University of Wisconsin system and local public health departments. The locations were selected to "address gaps in vaccine access and support vaccination efforts." Factors included population demographics, local health capacity, operations and the concentration of other vaccine providers. “Our biggest priority is to get shots in arms equitably, quickly, and safely. That is why we will continue adopting strategies and engaging in partnerships that will reduce barriers for individuals currently eligible for vaccine,” said Interim DHS Secretary Karen Timberlake. “We are expanding our capacity to deliver COVID-19 vaccines as more vaccine becomes available and as more people are eligible to be vaccinated. Along with mobile vaccination teams, various local vaccine providers, and pharmacy partners, these clinics are one of the many ways that folks can protect themselves and their loved ones from COVID-19.”Currently, Wisconsin has over 1,800 vaccine providers to help get available vaccine to those who are eligible, DHS says. Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/hunters-trappers-kill-52-wisconsin-wolves-on-opening-day Local News urn:uuid:32ddeb67-22c3-5ec3-edd6-2f5388331dea Tue, 23 Feb 2021 16:11:37 +0000 Wisconsin's wolf quota is nearly halfway full after just one day of hunting and trapping. MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin's wolf quota is nearly halfway full after just one day of hunting and trapping. The Department of Natural Resources launched a one-week wolf hunt on Monday. The department reports that as of Tuesday morning hunter and trappers had killed 52 wolves, filling nearly 44% of the 119-animal statewide quota. Of the DNR's six management zones, the central Wisconsin zone, which includes portions of Adams, Juneau, Monroe, Clark and Eau Claire counties, yielded the most kills at 17. The differing perspectives on Wisconsin's wolf huntThe season is scheduled to continue through Sunday, although the DNR may close zones early as their quotas are reached.On Tuesday morning, the DNR closed wolf harvest zones 2, 5, and 6, effective at 10 a.m. on Feb. 24. Hunters and trappers can continue to pursue wolves in zones 1, 3, and 4, the DNR said. Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/local-news/hunters-trappers-kill-52-wisconsin-wolves-on-opening-day Local News urn:uuid:6346afc0-10d9-5e03-2209-837131f37e4c Tue, 23 Feb 2021 16:11:37 +0000 Wisconsin's wolf quota is nearly halfway full after just one day of hunting and trapping. MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin wildlife officials plan to end the state's wolf season across most of the state on Wednesday after hunters and trappers filled half of the statewide quota in a little more than 24 hours. The Department of Natural Resources launched the hunt on Monday morning. It’s scheduled to run through Sunday. The differing perspectives on Wisconsin's wolf huntAs of Tuesday morning, hunters and trappers had taken 60 wolves, filling 50% of the 119-animal state quota. Department officials announced that they will end the season in three of the state’s six management zones effective 10 a.m. Wednesday. The zones include the southern two-thirds of the state as well as a swath of far northeastern Wisconsin.On Tuesday morning, the DNR closed wolf harvest zones 2, 5, and 6, effective at 10 a.m. on Feb. 24. Hunters and trappers can continue to pursue wolves in zones 1, 3, and 4, the DNR said. Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip https://www.tmj4.com/news/election-2020/republicans-propose-voting-changes-in-battleground-wisconsin Local News urn:uuid:42a54b42-c1b7-c99d-2b3a-0b5e2370b31d Tue, 23 Feb 2021 15:58:16 +0000 Republican lawmakers in battleground Wisconsin have introduced a series of bills designed to make it more difficult to vote absentee. MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Republican lawmakers in battleground Wisconsin have introduced a series of bills designed to make it more difficult to vote absentee. The effort comes after former President Donald Trump made unfounded claims of widespread voter fraud after his narrow loss to President Joe Biden by less than 21,000 votes. Democratic Gov. Tony Evers is all-but-certain to veto the bills should they pass the Republican-controlled Legislature. The Milwaukee Journal Sentinel reports that the measures released on Monday show the priorities of Republicans and what they may try to enact if a Republican is elected governor in 2022.Report a typo or error // Submit a news tip