West of the I

Thursday will have a pleasant high temperature, but may get a bit wet before the day is over, says the latest, local National Weather Service forecast.

Thursday’s high temperature should almost reach 60. That peak of 59 should come in the late morning.

Rain may move in this afternoon, most likely between 4 to 6 p.m.

Looking a bit ahead, the weekend looks dry, but rain returns to the forecast Monday through at least Wednesday next week. High temps will mostly be in the 60s Sunday through Wednesday.

At about 8:44 p.m., Paris Fire and Rescue units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to a report of a crash in the 15800 block of Highway K along the Bristol-Paris border

Per dispatch: One person injured.

Note: The following is a paid announcement from Slades Corners Computer Repair — DH

Slades Corners Computer Repair provides service for home and small business in the local area. We offer computer repair, TV antenna installation and service, security camera installation, Wi-Fi and network setup, modem and router install, and wire running for homes and offices.

Services include:

• Desktop and laptop repair
• Virus and malware removal
• New antenna install and antenna repair
• Smart TV setup
• Security camera systems
• Wi-Fi expansion and network setup
• Modem and router installation
• Clean wire running for home or business

On-site service available.

Local, reliable, and experienced. Call 262-539-2228 www.sccrwi.com

The Salem Lakes Annual Easter Egg Hunt will take place Saturday, March 28 at 10 a.m., at Schmalfeldt Park in Silver Lake.

Children ages 0-10 are invited to participate. Children will be divided into age groups with a staggered start.

The Parks Commission hosts the event. Bring your own basket or bag. Take a photo with the Easter Bunny after the hunt. Organizers of the event ask that you arrive early to allow for parking and line up.

Rain date is Saturday, April 4.

Growing with Bristol will host its Easter Egg Hunt on Saturday, March 28 at Hansen Park.

The hunt starts at 10:30 a.m. sharp. Attendees are advised to arrive before then and be ready for action ahead of time.

There will be staggered starts of age groups of:

• Up to 2 years old.
• 3 and 4 year olds.
• 5 and 6 year olds.
• 7 and 8 year olds
• 9 and 10 year olds.

Each of over 25,000 stuffed eggs filled with candy or small toy prizes.

Some more tips for this event from Growing with Bristol:

• Bring a bag or basket.
• Please plan to match up and return all your eggs prior to leaving the park in the designated Egg Return Areas by each hunt area.
• Easter Bunny will be available for pictures.
• Complementary cookies will be available while supplies last.

At about 6:51 p.m., Bristol Fire and Rescue units and sheriff’s deputies are responding for a report of smoke in the 24800 block of 61st Street in Paddock Lake.

Per dispatch: Caller reporting smoke inside a house but no flames seen yet.

UPDATE about 6:58 p.m. — Deputy on scene reports smoke inside house. Occupants being evacuated.

UPDATE about 7:03 p.m. — Bristol command reports working fire in chimney. Call upgraded to structure fire with units from Paris Fire and Rescue, Salem Lakes Fire/Rescue, Pleasant Prairie Fire and Rescue and Newport Fire Protection District now responding.

UPDATE about 7:08 p.m. — Command reports fire knocked down.

 Note: The following is a paid announcement from Kenosha County Aging & Disability Resource Center — DH

The Spring Primary for Kenosha County residents will be Tuesday, February 17.  The Spring Election will be April 7. 

Free Rides for voting purposes will be provided by the below transportation service providers with advance registration. Call early to reserve your ride.

• Carepool: 262-278-6455
• Link Western Kenosha Transportation: 888-203-3498
• KAFASI Volunteer Transportation: 262-842-7433

Persons with disabilities can request special voting accommodations, such as curbside voting. To learn more call Disability Rights WI Voter Hotline: 844-DIS-VOTE.
The website  myvote.wi.gov is also an excellent resource to register and request an absentee ballot.

For those unable to access the MyVote website, Kenosha County Aging and Disability Resource Center staff can provide direct assistance. To learn more, call the ADRC at 262-605-6646.

This post sponsored by Westosha Floral.

The following deaths of local residents and those with local connections are being reported by funeral homes today. Click on name to see obituary/service information:

Twin Lakes Police have released the name of the victim and the suspect in a fatal shooting in the village Monday morning.

Identified as the victim was Amber K. Montana, 37.

Identified as the suspect in the shooting was Brandyn R. Hall, 35.

Here is a new news release from the TLPD:

Twin Lakes Police have arrested a suspect in a shooting in the village this morning.

From a Twin Lakes Police Department news release:

Just after 9 am, Twin Lakes responded the report of a woman shot in the 1600 block of Wilmot Avenue. After staging, Twin transported the patient to Froedtert South. Twin Lakes did take a subject into custody. Twin Lakes Police and Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office are investigating.

This post sponsored by Westosha Floral.

The following deaths of local residents and those with local connections are being reported by funeral homes today. Click on name to see obituary/service information:

4:36 pm Salem Lakes Fire and Rescue is responding for a supervisory alarm at 22500 block of 85th Place.

They have requested We energies.

At 1:14 pm Kenosha Sheriff’s Office came across an accident on the west Frontage Road and Highway K. Two vehicles, occupants reporting injuries.

Note: This is a paid announcement from Reliable Heating and Air Conditioning — DH

Reliable Heating & Air Conditioning has been in the Western Kenosha County neighborhood for 40 years.

Reliable was founded in 1985 by Ray Sheehan. Ray’s son Rick now runs the company and three generation of Sheehans have worked there.

Reliable Heating & Air Conditioning is fully staffed with HVAC technicians throughout SE Wisconsin to best serve you. 

It’s friendly, knowledgeable and skilled technicians keep your home comfortable and energy efficient all year-round with the best HVAC solutions to suit your home’s layout. 

Reliable can work around your schedule and service you HVAC products with the skill and care that you deserve and a price you can afford.

Besides standard heating and air conditioning services, Reliable also services and installs water heaters and boiler systems.

Whether your need is residential, commercial, installation, service or new construction Reliable brings 50 years of experience to complete your job.

Call Reliable Heating & Air Conditioning today at 262-843-2865

This post sponsored by Westosha Floral.

The following deaths of local residents and those with local connections are being reported by funeral homes today. Click on name to see obituary/service information:

At 3:50 pm a Bristol truck and fire Chief are responding for a working still alarm to Pleasant Prairie for a possible structure fire at Westwood Estates on 88th Avenue. Initial reports states heavy smoke coming from a garage.

4:16 pm Paris Fire has been requested for a rescue squad for change of quarters, Station 3.

Voters in the Wheatland J1 School District will be able to vote on a operating referendum in the spring election on April 7.

We sent a questionnaire to district officials. Following are the responses from Martin McGinley, district administrator.

What is being sought with your district’s referendum? 

McGinley: The Wheatland J1 School District is asking for a renewal of the current, non-recurring operating referendum for an additional 4 years. The question on the ballot will be as follows…
“Shall the Joint School District Number 1, Towns of Wheatland, Brighton, Randall and Salem, Kenosha County, Wisconsin be authorized to exceed the revenue limit specified in Section 121.91, Wisconsin Statutes, by $400,000 per year, for the 2026-2027 school year through the 2029-2030 school year, for non-recurring purposes consisting of maintaining the current level of educational programming and operating the District? [YES]  or  [NO]”
Even with increased inflationary costs over the last 8 years the district has been able to reduce each succeeding referendum by a substantial amount. The current operating referendum, which passed in 2022, was a reduction of $100,000 per year for a total of $400,000. If approved, the pending referendum would be an additional reduction of $125,000 per year, or $500,000 over the four years.The non-recurring option was chosen because it provides a sunset for the referendum and allows residents to make an informed choice in four years, while giving the district the benefit of knowing the impact of future state budgets. 

Why is the referendum needed? 

McGinley: The revenue permitted based on the state imposed revenue limit is not sufficient to provide the services that the children of Wheatland need or that our community expects. The only way to increase the amount of revenue available is to have public permission through the referendum to exceed the revenue limit. It is exactly the same issue that Wheatland has had for the previous 20 years. With public approval, the School Board may levy up to that amount if necessary, but in previous years the Board of Education has been able to under levy based on the needs of the district or pay down debt. This month the district will be prepaying $2,000,000 of debt from the 2018 Facility referendum saving taxpayers $750,000 in interest on the loan and reducing the period of the loan by 3.5 years. Approval of the referendum simply allows the Wheatland School Board to increase the revenue limit to accommodate the current budget, however, due to the district’s strong financial position it is not projected to increase the tax levy. This is due to intentional measured growth in open enrollment and conservative spending in the previous 4 years. In fact, as mentioned in later questions, there has been no increase in the tax levy in 11 of the last 12 years and there is projected to be NO TAX LEVY INCREASE with this referendum. 

What is the projected property tax impact?

McGinley: Based on a conservative forecasting model created by Robert W. Baird’s public finance division and the district’s own budget projections, there is predicted to be no increase over the current levy for the school-based portion of property taxes. This is made possible by increased revenue from open enrollment and great fiscal stewardship by the Wheatland Board of Education. The District has been able to decrease the tax levy each year since 2018, and the reduce the overall overall tax levy in 11 of the last 12 years. Wheatland is one of very few districts in the state that has been able to reduce the tax levy, thereby providing an excellent value for the Wheatland community and a destination school for area students. 

What will passing the referendum allow the district to do? 

McGinley: An approval of the referendum will allow the District to continue the momentum toward our Flight to Excellence. Over the last decade Wheatland students have made progress in growth and achievement in every measured category. We are incredibly proud of the opportunities we provide students to thrive in all academic and extra-curricular areas. The Wheatland School District continues to exceed expectations each year on the state report card, while creating powerful students that are ready to fulfill the promise of success in high school and beyond. 

What will be the effect of the referendum not passing?

McGinley: If the referendum question fails, the district will be forced to re-evaluate its long term financial projections. The impact of this reduction may cause a reduction in programming, and a potential loss of students. This would be followed by a decrease in state aid and open enrollment revenue. Ultimately, this loss of revenue would likely cause taxes to increase. It could also dramatically impact the quality of education the community has worked so hard to improve. The Board would have to reassess the situation after all information is available. Unfortunately, unless something changes with the school finance formula, no matter how successful Wheatland becomes, it is unlikely that the district will ever be able to thrive without some form of an operating referendum. 

How can people get more information or ask questions? 

McGinley: Visit the Wheatland Referendum Websitehttps://www.wheatland.k12.wi.us/page/referendum-2026
and/or Contact Marty McGinley, District AdministratorEmail: marty.mcginley@wcspk8.orgPhone: 262-537-2216 ext. 3920

At 10:53 am Bristol, Pleasant Prairie, and Newport are en route to a multi vehicle accident in the 9000 block of I-94. One of the vehicles is a bus.

At 10:58 am they received a separate rescue call for a cardiac issue. Bristol requested Antioch for that call.

11:01 Kenosha responded to the 9400 block of I-94 for a traumatic injury.

11:02 Antioch responded for rescue call.

Bristol Fire and Rescue are responding for a rescue call on 116th St for a head injury. They requested Flight For Life. The patient will be transported by the helicopter from the landing zone at Highways 45 and 50.

Note: Wilmot Auto Service is a westofthei.com sponsor. This is a paid announcement. — DH

Wilmot Auto Service, Inc is an independent auto repair shop and has earned the Blue Seal of Excellence Recognition as prescribed by the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence, (ASE), a non-profit organization dedicated to improving the quality of vehicle repair and service by means of voluntary testing and certification for automotive repair and service professionals.

Call 862-6300 for an appointment. Hours are Monday through Friday 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Dwayne & Cindy Garwood are the owners and Dwayne is an ASE Master technician and has been in the automotive repair business for over 25 years. Dwayne’s grandpa Harmon Garwood started Wilmot Auto Service in 1951. They are celebrating 74 years in business. He employs ASE certified and ASE master technicians. Dwayne’s commitment to you has always been to offer the highest quality, honest and friendly auto service.

Wilmot Auto Service offers a variety of services like alignments, brakes, tires, timing belts, check engine lights and state inspections. They can be reached at 262-862-6300. They are located at 11307 Fox River Rd. Wilmot, WI 53192 with the BP gas station in downtown Wilmot. www.wilmotautoservice.com

Note: The following is a paid announcement from Aging and Disability Resource Center of Kenosha County — DH

The Aging and Disability Resource Center of Kenosha County (ADRC) Durable Medical Equipment Loan and Supply Closet provides durable medical equipment as well as incontinence products for older adults and adults with disabilities. Individuals who are not enrolled in one of Wisconsin’s long-term care programs, such as Family Care, IRIS, and Partnership may contact the ADRC to request an item(s).

The Loan and Supply Closet is supported by the generosity of community monetary and in-kind donations. The Loan and Supply Closet has a low inventory of the following items:

• Incontinence products: Chux (disposable underpads), Wipes, Men’s, Women’s, and Unisex Pull-ups, sizes: small, medium, large, Men’s, Women’s, and Unisex Bladder pads.
• Mobility for Standard and Bariatric: Wheelchairs (Bariatric and Standard), Transport Chairs (Bariatric and Standard), Rollators (Bariatric and Standard), Transfer Boards, Knee Scooters (Standard), Portable Ramps.
• Bathroom Essentials: Shower Chairs and Stools (Bariatric and Standard), Transfer Benches (Bariatric and Standard), Commodes (Bariatric and Standard), Toilet Rails. 

If you have items you wish to donate, or are in need of medical equipment or supplies, please call the ADRC at 262-605-6646. The ADRC is open Monday – Friday, 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. While the ADRC takes additional steps in sanitization, for everyone’s safety, we ask that all equipment be cleaned prior to donation.

An Easter Egg Hunt Extravaganza hosted by the Westosha-Salem Kiwanis Club and partnered with the Kenosha County Fair Association will take place Sunday, March 29 at the fairgrounds in Wilmot.

This event is free.

The event will include egg hunts divided by the following age groups starting at 1 p.m.:

• 2-3 years old
• 4-5 years old
• 6-8 years old
• 9-10 years old

There will be a sensory friendly hunt for all ages at noon.

Find a golden egg and win an Easter basket. Over 30,000 eggs will be hidden.

Other fun planned for the event includes a petting zoo and sprint/race cars, farm tractors and sheriff’s and fire vehicles on display.

There also will be a bike raffle. Each child will receive one free bike raffle ticket. Additional raffle tickets are given for non-perishable food items donated to a The Sharing Center food drive. Extra tickets also can be purchased for $5 each or 3 for $10.

Parking is in the main fairgrounds parking lot; enter the grounds at the Big Red Barn entrance.

Here is a map of the layout for the event (click on map for larger view):

A long-time member of the Wheatland J1 School District has resigned.

Chris Serak is leaving the board on which her served for 19 years.

Here is a news release from the district issued Thursday:

At its March board meeting the Wheatland School Board discussed the incredible service and commitment from Board President Chris Serak. He recently resigned his position due to a change in residency. Mr. Serak has served as the School Board President for sixteen of the nineteen years he was on the board. He was instrumental in the success Wheatland has enjoyed, including the district’s unprecedented growth and expansion in programming.

Former Board President Chris Serak wrote, “It is with heavy heart that I resign my position on the Wheatland J1 School Board effective immediately. I have relocated our primary residence to Florida, therefore I am no longer a registered voter or resident of Wisconsin. I have really enjoyed the past 19 years working on the many challenges we faced as a district and I am proud of all we have accomplished together. I am confident I leave the District in good hands with the current School Board and a strong leadership team.”

The Wheatland J1 School district has become a destination school district during Mr. Serak’s tenure. The success includes creating sustainable systems to ensure financial stability, improve instruction, upgrade the facility, and enhance transportation. Wheatland has been at the top of the Exceeds Expectations category for several years. The positive educational atmosphere has contributed to an increase of 250 students, and a decrease in the tax levy in 11 of the last 12 years. The district has an upcoming operating referendum on April 7th that was unanimously approved by the board. This referendum is a reduction from the previous referendum and will not increase the current tax levy. As of March the district also paid off $2,000,000 in debt, saving the taxpayers $750,000 in interest. Mr. Serak’s steady leadership was instrumental in making these accomplishments a reality.

District Administrator, Marty McGinley said, “Chris has been a strong presence in the district for nearly two decades. That kind of service to one’s community is extraordinary. He has given his time and talent to Wheatland, and has impacted the lives of thousands of students. His steady hand and grasp of the big picture have helped us focus on the needs of the students first and foremost. Chris has been a mentor to me and I am forever grateful.”

The district will post the position in the coming weeks and publish a process for the appointment of a board member to fill the open seat in April.

This post sponsored by Westosha Floral.

The following deaths of local residents and those with local connections are being reported by funeral homes today. Click on name to see obituary/service information:

The Westosha Central High School District board is seeking applicants to fil a vacancy on the board.

Steve Richter recently resigned. He held the Bristol seat since 2013.

Richter is the second resignation from the board this year. In January, Bonnie Felske resigned her at-large seat ont eh board. Jacob Biehn was appointed to filler that seat.

Here is information on how to apply for considertation to

The Westosha Central High School District is currently seeking applicants to fill a vacant Board position. The position is the Bristol representative; qualified applicants must reside within the Bristol/Westosha Central district boundaries and be at least 18 years old.
The vacancy follows the resignation of board member Steve Richter, who has served on the Westosha Central Board of Education for the past 13 years. Richter wrote that “serving our community and the students of Westosha Central High School for the past 13 years has been a tremendous honor.” He also expressed pride in the district’s progress, noting the board’s work “strengthening academic programs and expanding opportunities for students.”
He added, “I am deeply grateful for the collaboration, dedication, and professionalism of my fellow board members, administrators, teachers, staff, and community partners. The progress we have made has truly been a team effort. As I step away from this role, I do so with tremendous confidence and excitement for the district’s future. The leadership in place, combined with the commitment of this community, ensures that our students will continue to thrive.”
The board will select a candidate following an interview process. The selected candidate will fill the position immediately and complete the current term. The three-year term will then appear on the ballot in the 2027 spring election.
Applicants should send an email communication with a letter of intent to John Gendron, District Administrator, no later than Monday, March 30, 2026, at 3 p.m.
Board interviews will be held on Thursday, April 9, 2026, at 6 p.m. The district will send information via email on April 1 to applicants with more details regarding the interviews.
To submit your candidacy for the vacant position:
● Name
● Address
● Phone
● Email
● Letter of Interest, including reasons for wanting to serve and any other information you find relevant to serving on the board
Please email your information to:
Mr. John Gendron
gendronj@westosha.k12.wi.us
For further information, contact District Administrator John Gendron, gendronj@westosha.k12.wi.us, (262) 843-2321, ext. 222, or Executive Assistant Nicole Pahl, pahln@westosha.k12.wi.us, (262) 843-2321, ext. 247.