West of the I

The law license of Kenosha County District Attorney Xavier Solis has been reinstated one day after it was reported that it had been suspended, WGTD radio is reporting.

Here is a link to WGTD’s whole story.

From Westosha Central High School:

Westosha Central High School is inviting all members of our community to join us for Westosha Fest, a Community Block Party, taking place on Saturday, September 19, 2026, from 3–7 p.m. at Westosha Central High School.

Westosha Fest is designed to bring the entire Westosha community together for an afternoon of entertainment, activities, food trucks, and opportunities to connect with local organizations and businesses.

Attendees can enjoy live music by Jeff Pflueger, a Kids Zone featuring games and activities sponsored by Kids Club/Joyce’s Preschool, free face painting and caricatures, a Bristol Fire Department obstacle course, guided building tours, free games and activities at over 30 booths, and a Westosha Central Alumni Tent. There will also be prize drawings, with free entry provided to each attendee.

Food will be available for purchase from Antioch Pizza, Dawgbite Hot Dogs, Romero’s Taco Truck, and Brookie’s Soda Hut. Community State Bank will also be bringing their cruiser to hand out free ice cream, while supplies last.

Westosha Fest is made possible through the support of our sponsors! Click here to view and help us thank them for their support.

Event Details:
Westosha Fest Community Block Party
Saturday, September 19, 2026
3–7 p.m.
Westosha Central High School, 24617 75th Street, Salem, WI 53168
Free admission and entertainment

The community is invited to save the date and join us for an afternoon of fun, food, music, and community connection at Westosha Central!

For more information, visit the sites listed below, or contact pahln@westosha.k12.wi.us.
Westosha Fest Website: https://www.westosha.k12.wi.us/page/westosha-fest
Westosha Fest Facebook Event: https://www.facebook.com/share/18FH339HG6/

The Salem Lakes Village Board is scheduled to meet Tuesday, starting at 6 p.m.. at Village Hall in Salem.

This meeting also will be live streamed and available for later viewing here.

Agenda items include:

• EDC SWOT presentation and request for approval from the Village Board
• Payment request #4 from Asphalt Contractors, in the amount of $385,844.87, for the Valmar & Yaws Subdivision Sanitary Sewer Rehabilitation
• Payment request #3 from Asphalt Contractors, in the amount of $488,501.29 and Change Order #2, in the amount of $43,000.00, for the 2026 Street & Utilities Program
• Driveway Easement Agreement between the Village of Salem Lakes and SMM Investments LLC (Owner), Stephen C. Mills (Agent), over the unimproved Public R.O.W., known as Hillside Court, to provide access to Lot 2 CSM No. 3155. For informational purposes only this R.O.W. is located approximately 625 feet north of Cogswell Drive (CTH ‘B’).
• Sanitary Sewer Easement Agreement between the Village of Salem Lakes and SMM Investments LLC (Owner), Stephen C. Mills (Agent), over the unimproved Public R.O.W., known as Hillside Court, to provide sanitary sewer service to Lot 2 CSM No. 3155. For informational purposes only this R.O.W. is located approximately 625 feet north of Cogswell Drive (CTH ‘B’).
• Driveway Easement Agreement between the Village of Salem Lakes and SMM Investments LLC (Owner), Stephen C. Mills (Agent), over the unimproved Public R.O.W., known as Garden Lane, to provide access to Lots 3 & 4 CSM No. 3155. For informational purposes only this R.O.W. is located approximately 350 feet north of Cogswell Drive (CTH ‘B’).
  12.6 Sanitary Sewer Easement Agreement between the Village of Salem Lakes and SMM Investments LLC (Owner), Stephen C. Mills (Agent), over the unimproved Public R.O.W., known as Garden Lane, to provide sanitary sewer service to Lots 3 & 4 CSM No. 3155. For informational purposes only this R.O.W. is located approximately 350 feet north of
  Cogswell Drive (CTH ‘B’)
• Review of new Village Hall sign options
• Closed session for negotiations regarding: Lots 1 & 2 73rd St, PARCEL No. 70-4-120-063-0676 – review wetland delineation; 12416 Antioch Road, Parcel No. 70-4-120-354-3300 – price reduction; 317 E Lake Street, Parcel No. 70-4-120-181-1900 – update

The full agenda is available here,

Xavier Solis, Kenosha County district attorney, has had his law license suspended by the Wisconsin Office of Lawyer Regulation, WGTD radio reported Monday.

Rosa Delgado, deputy DA, is acting as district attorney.

Here’s WGTD’s full story from today.

At about 7:48 p.m., Town of Randall Fire Department and Twin Lakes Fire and Rescue units are responding to a crash in the 10300 block of Highway KD in Randall.

Per dispatch: Two vehicles involved. All occupants out of vehicles.

UPDATE 7:51 p.m. — Randall unit on scene reports one vehicle in the ditch and upright.

UPDATE 7:54 p.m. — Two people being checked for injuries.

There’s a decent chance for rain most every day this week after Monday, says the latest, local National Weather Service forecast.

Chances of rain 50 percent or better are forecast for Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, with a 40 percent chance Friday and a 70 percent chance Saturday. Thunderstorms are possible Wednesday night, but otherwise it’s just rain expected at this point.

Temps are expected to be in the mid 70s for highs and high 50s to low 60s for lows.

The Wheatland Town Board is scheduled to meet Mon day, starting at 6 p.m. at Town Hall in New Munster.,

Agenda items include:

• Consideration and possible adoption to amend Ordinance 39 Recycling and Waste Reduction.
• Consideration and discussion to apply for the Innovation Grant
• ExpressVote use during absentee period discussion
• Fee Schedule discussion
• Continued discussion of Open Records Policy

The full agenda is available here.

Note: This is a paid announcement from Wagner Family Fire Fund — DH

The Wagner Family Fire Fund will celebrate its 5th anniversary with an event on Sept. 19 at Old Settlers County Park in Paddock Lake from noon to 5 p.m.

The event will include raffles, live music, silent auctions, food and drinks and family fun.

The Wagner Family Fire Fund was started in 2021 by the Wagner family, which had their home destroyed in a 2020 fire. The nonprofit organization seeks to offer relief, assistance and support to families in Kenosha County who lose their home to a fire. In the past five years, the fund has delivered 150 Go Bags valued at over $1,000 each to Kenosha County fire chiefs for distribution to fire victims.

More information on the Wagner Family Fire Fund is available here.

Old Settlers Oktoberfest took place at Old Settlers County Park in Paddock Lake Saturday.

The event is hosted by Paddock Lake Area Lions Club and Westosha-Salem Kiwanis, featured German food, drink, music, dance and other fun such as kids games and the annual dachshund dog races.

Old Settlers Oktoberfest was founded in 2011 by Heidi Schuerstedt. After Schuerstedt’s death in 2017, leading the events was then taken up by Rebecca Lancour and Mindy Cooling. Organizing the event was taken up last year in a cooperative effort between the Lions and Kiwanis clubs.

German music was provided by the Ed Wagner Brass Band. Here is a sample of their sound:

The dachshund Dash dog races are a tradition at this fest. Here is a video of the championship round, which was won by Dr. Bruce Banner, with the help of his race crew Adam and Aspyn Theigs.

The fun continues until 9:30 p.m.

Here are some more photos from the event:

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:

Note: The following is a paid announcement from the village of Paddock Lake– DH

VILLAGE OF PADDOCK LAKE
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC WORKS
Streets and Utility Laborer
The Village of Paddock Lake Department of Public Works has an opening for an entry-level full-time operator/labor in the streets and roads division. The primary focus will be street maintenance, snow/ice removal, stormwater infrastructure maintenance, forestry, Parks, and facility maintenance. The position may also be directed to assist with activities within the Water and Sanitary Sewer Utility.

Qualifications: Requires a high school diploma or GED and be at least 18 years of age. Candidate shall possess a valid Wisconsin Driver’s License and have the ability to obtain a Village sponsored Commercial Driver’s License with an endorsement of air brakes within 12 months of employment start date. First aid and CPR certified or willingness to become certified within (1) year. Be able to keep basic records, document information, write legibly and have good communication skills.
Preferred: Experience with basic mechanical equipment operation and troubleshooting, construction principles, and desire to work in customer service. Should be comfortable with operation of heavy and light equipment and use of small hand and power tools.
Compensation: Hourly wage, with excellent benefit package per Village Personnel Manual. Pay will depend on qualifications and probationary period, hourly pay range $18.91 to $20.01.
Conditions of Employment: Work is primarily outside field work that may require entry into confined spaces such as maintenance access holes. At times exposure to inclement weather, fumes, odors and dust that will require use of personal protective equipment. Candidate must be able to do medium to heavy lifting, work involving climbing, balancing, stooping, kneeling, crouching, reaching, and walking moderate distances around various sites as well as bending and twisting as necessary. Selected candidate must pass a fit for physical, alcohol/drug screening and criminal background check prior to first day of employment.
Applications: Candidates should apply by submitting a cover letter, resume and contact information for (3) work related references along with a fully completed Village of Paddock Lake Employment Application to the Village Administrator, by delivering completed application and resume to Village Hall at 6969-236^th Ave, Paddock Lake.  Employment applications and job description can be obtained at the Village Hall, 6969-236^th Avenue, Paddock Lake, Wi. 53168.
Application Deadline: Open until filled

The Village of Paddock Lake is an Equal Opportunity Employer. In compliance with American Disabilities Act, the Village will provide reasonable accommodations to qualified individuals with disabilities. 

At about 10:11 a.m., Bristol Fire and Rescue, Pleasant Prairie Fire and Rescue and Newport Fire Protection District units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to a crash in the 7500 block of I-94, southbound.

Per dispatch: Caller reporting being forced between two vehicles, which left the scene. Traffic not blocked.

The Sharing Center will be hosting its second annual Speakeasy fundraiser Sept. 19, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at the historic Wonderbar (Rumpoles) in Twin Lakes.

Step through a hidden entrance and into a 1920s inspired speakeasy where glamour shimmers, jazz drifts through the air and spirits flow like a well-kept secret.

Sip from a “bootlegger’s stash”, enjoy ~~ passed hors d’oeuvres, and compete in a dazzling costume contest all set to the soulful sounds of jazz and blues.

Your attendance is more than a night out; your presence strengthens the community. Proceeds benefit The Sharing Center, supporting rural housing, employment and nutrition programs.

Tickets are $50 in advance on line and $60 at the door. Includes food and two drink tickets. Click here to purchase tickets.

Questions? Contact The Sharing Center at 262-298-5535.

Note: The following is a paid announcement from Old Settlers Oktoberfest — DH

Here is the schedule for 2026 Old Settlers Oktoberfest:

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 Paddock Lake Village Board is scheduled to hold a committee of the whole meeting Wednesday, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Village Hal (municipal building).

Agenda items include:

• Photovoltaic Solar Energy System Ordinance
• Battery Energy Storage System Ordinance
• Accepting future road right of way land donation from developer.
• 2025 Financial Position Audit
• Purchase of replacement light-duty truck using Capital Improvement Funds
• Sewer collection system cleaning status

The full agenda is available here.

The Randall Town Board is scheduled to meet We3dnesday, starting at 6 p.m. at Town Hall in Bassett.

Agenda items include:

• Operator Appeal for denial of License – Margaret Merkel. Discussion, Consideration, and action if any.
• Election Security Contingency Plan. Discussion, Consideration, and action if any.
• Purchase of a town-owned cell phone for the Clerk/Treasurer. Discussion, Consideration, and action
  if any.

The full agenda is available here.

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:

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.

Wilmot Auto Service is open during the Highway W construction.

Dwayne & Cindy Garwood are the owners and Dwayne is an ASE Master technician and has been in the automotive repair business for over 38 years. Dwayne’s grandpa Harmon Garwood started Wilmot Auto Service in 1951. They are celebrating 75 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

The Westosha Central High School board is scheduled to meet Tuesday starting at 5 p.m. in the upper commons at the school.

Agenda items include:

• Closed session starting at 4:20 p.m. for 2025-26 district administrator evaluation.
• CTE & Community Engagement Presentation
• Presentation of 2026-27 District Goals
• 2026-27 Enrollment Update
• 2026-27 Food Service Update
• 2026-27 Private School Transportation Contract Approval at $906.47 Each
• Parking Lot Construction Update

The full agenda is available here.

Note: The following is a paid announcement from the Twin Lakes Area Chamber & Business Association — DH

The 36th Annual Twin Lakes Area Chamber Golf Outing is Sept. 16 at Twin Lakes Country Club.

The event will be a full day of golf, laughs, friendly competition, great food, raffles, and local connections. From the Mega Putt, Air Cannon, Ball Toss and on-course challenges to Jell-O shots, prizes, Best Dressed Team, dinner and raffles, there’s something happening all day long.

Want to play? Grab your foursome and get registered.

Want even more fun? Grab the $40 Bundle — a $50 value.

Want your business noticed? Donate a raffle item or gift card.

Want your name in front of local golfers, business owners and community members? Sponsorship opportunities are still available.

You don’t have to be the best golfer in the room. You just have to show up ready for a really good day. And if golf isn’t your thing? Join us for dinner at 6 PM and be part of the fun anyway.

Register | Sponsor | Donate today: https://twinlakeschamber.com/36th-golf-outing

The annual meeting and budget hearing for the Westosha Central High School District is scheduled for Tuesday, starting at 7 p.m. in the upper commons.

Agenda items include:

• Election of a Chairperson
• District Overview Presentation
• Authorization of School Board Salaries and Reimbursement of School Board Member Related
  Expenditures (motion will cover all salaries): A. Current Officer Salary for President, Vice President, Treasurer, and Clerk: $3,500; B. Current Member Salary: $3,000
• Presentation of the Budget
• Adoption of Tax Levy — Total Tax Levy: $ 13,334,426.00
• Short-term borrowing not to exceed $2,000,000 for the 2026-2027 school year

The whole annual meeting agenda is available here.

A summary of the budget follows:

10 Fund – General Fund
A. Total Proposed Expenditures: $ 21,131,137.27
B. Total Anticipated Receipts: $ 20,879,903.60
C. Proposed 10 Fund Tax Levy: $ 10,701,689.00

2. Debt Service – 38 (Energy Exemption) and 39 (Debt Payment) Fund
   A. Total Proposed Expenditures: $ 2,415,674.00
   B. Proposed 38 and 39 Fund Tax Levy: $ 2,382,737.00
3. 46 Fund
   A. Total Proposed Expenditures: $ 1,562,550.00
   B. Proposed 46 Fund Tax Levy: $ 0
4. 73 Fund
   A. Investment Manager: PMA Asset Management
   B. Investment Return Earned Since Last Annual Meeting: $ 6,214.61
   C. Disbursement Totals Since Last Annual Meeting: $ 169,890.83
   D. Trust Balance: $ 560,223.29
5. 80 Fund
   A. Total Proposed Expenditures: $ 224,894.51
   B. Proposed 80 Fund Tax Levy: $ 250,000.00

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 about 1:03 p.m., Paris Fire and Rescue units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to the 1400 block of Highway 45 in Paris for a crash.

Per dispatch: Two vehicles involved. Injuries unknown.

UPDATE 3:06 p.m. — Paris unit arriving on scene reports vehicles showing minor to moderate damage.

Salem Lakes adopted new regulations this week addressing some of the current hot topic development areas of concern.

The Village Board amended the village zoning ordinances to institute new regularions regarding battery energy storage systems, solar farms and data centers. The village Plan Commission also recommended adoption of the new ordinance.

Both actions took place at a joint Village Board-Plan Commission meeting Monday. Both votes were unanimous.

The ordinance (viewable here as part of the meeting agenda packet) sets rules and regulations for all three of these types of facilities that are gaining awareness among municipal officials and the general public nationwide.

Samuel Schultz of Von Briesen, a consultant hired by the village, said Salem Lakes’ ordinance is similar to ones passed recently by Kenosha County and Pleasant Prairie.

The ordinance sets out specific requirements for these three types of developments. That was necessary, Schultz said, since the village can’t just forbid they be built here. Requirements can’t be so strict as to effectively rule out such developments, with for example, very large setbacks.

“The village does not have the ability to just flat ban any legal use in Wisconsin,” Schultz said, “so setting rules and regulations limiting them puts you in a much more advantageous legal position.”

No member of the public spoke for or against the proposed ordinance at a public hearing held during the Plan Commission portion of the joint meeting despite the high profile development of these types of facilities have had nationally of late.

The village’s ability to allow or regulate large facilities of these three types can also be limited if they are judged to fall under the authority of the Wisconsin Public Service Commission, which regulates utilities, Schultz said.