Note: The following is a paid announcement from –DH
Kenosha County 4-H hosts first annual Festival of Trees
From Kenosha County 4-H:
Several hundred people turned out Saturday for the Kenosha County 4-H Festival of Trees, a first-time event at the County Center in Bristol.
Some two dozen Christmas trees were on displayed, representing various 4-H projects and clubs.
Santa Claus, apparently tracked down by the Slades Corners 4-H Club, made an appearance, and there were various holiday crafts for families to enjoy. Admission was free, though visitors were encouraged to bring nonperishable food donations for The Sharing Center in Trevor.
The trees will remain on display in the County Center lobby until the end of the year. The building is located at the corner of ighways 45 and 50 in Bristol.
More information about 4-H and other Extension Kenosha County programming is available at kenosha.extension.wisc.edu.
Deaths Nov. 19, 2025: John S Heilgeist
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:
Continue reading →Units responding for crash in Slades Corners
At about 7:48 a.m., Wheatland Vol Fire Department, Town of Randall Fire Department and Twin Lakes Rescue units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to a crash at Highway P and Highway 50 in Slades Corners.
Per dispatch: Single vehicle involved. One injury being reported.
UPDATE 7:51 a.m. — Wheatland constable on the scene.
Units responding for crash in Paris
At 7;33 a.m., Paris Fire and Rescue units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to a report of a crash in the 14900 block of Highway A in Paris.
Per dispatch: Single vehicle crash. Vehicle off the road. Injuries being reported.
Agenda: Twin Lakes Village Board, Randall Town Board & Wheatland Town Board special joint meeting Nov. 19, 2025
The Twin Lakes Village Board, Randall Town Board & Wheatland Town Board are scheduled to hold a special joint meeting Wednesday, starting at 3 p.m. at Randall Fire Station #2 in Bassett.
Agenda items include:
- Discussion and possible action regarding the Fire/EMS study between the Town of Randall, Town of Wheatland, and the Village of Twin Lakes.
Dave Bretl from Public Administration Associates, LLC. also is expected to be in attendance.
Agenda: Wilmot UHS District board meeting Nov. 19, 2025
The Wilmot Union High School District board is scheduled to meet Wednesday starting at 6 p.m. in the school library.
Agenda items include:
- Overnight Field Trips
- 2026-2027 School Start Time
- 2026-2027 School Calendar
- Review Board Election Calendar
- Construction Update
- Closed session for employee contracts and compensation
Agenda: Wheatland J1 School District board meeting Nov. 19, 2025
The Wheatland J1 School District board is scheduled to meet Wednesday starting at 7 p.m. in room #164-Community Room.
Agenda items include:
- 2026-27 Academic Calendar
- Therapy Dog
- Finance
- 2025-26 Final Budget Approval
- Resolution Authorizing the School District Budget to Exceed Revenue Limit by $400,000 Per Year for Four Years for Non-Recurring Purposes
- Resolution Providing for a Referendum Election on the Question of the Approval of a Resolution Authorizing the School District Budget to Exceed Revenue Limit by $400,000 Per Year for Four Years for Non-Recurring Purposes
Deaths Nov. 18, 2025: James Stadler,
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:
Continue reading →Salem Lakes appoints Michael Kostiuk as village administrator
The Salem Lakes Village Board Monday confirmed the appointment of Michael Kostiuk as its next village administrator.
Kostiuk was approved by a 6-0 roll call vote at Monday’s Village Board meeting, with Trustee Bill Hopkins absent due to a family matter.
“Michael is a proven leader with the strategic focus, professionalism, and a collaborative approach,” village President Rita Bucur said. “His background in organizational leadership, budgeting, and community engagement positions him well to guide the Village forward. We are excited to welcome him to our community.”
Kostiuk will start in his new position on Jan. 5. He succeeds Cassandra Hiller, who resigned in August.
Kostiuk is currently the chief of the International Falls (Minn.) Police Department. This will be his first job as a village administrator.
Kostiuk earned a master of public administration degree with a concentration in local and city government in 2023, according to a post on the International Falls Police Department Facebook page. He also holds a a bachelor of science in criminal justice.
“I am honored to be appointed Village Administrator for the Village of Salem Lakes,” said Kostiuk in a news release from the village. “Throughout my career, I have been committed to building strong teams, supporting staff, and strengthening community trust. I look forward to working closely with the Village Board, employees, and residents to enhance operations, support thoughtful planning, and continue delivering high-quality services.”
Kostiuk made a brief appearance at Tuesday’s meeting via Zoom, wearing his chief uniform.
“I think what you’re going to get with me is a dedication to speaking with the public, the community members and understanding their desires, what they want and conveying that to the elected officials,” Kostiuk said at the meeting. “In my experience, communication is the key to any successful venture.”
One trustee spoke during the meeting about the hire.
“I was very very impressed with the interview we did with Michael,” said Trustee Dennis Faber. “I’m happy to see he has accepted our offer.”
While Kostiuk has not been a village or city administrator before, it is not uncommon for administrators to come from the ranks of other municipal department heads, such as public works directors or police or fire chiefs, Jay Shambeau from Innovative Public Advisors, the company that lead the search, has said at earlier meetings. Shambeau also has been serving as the interim village administrator.
Kostiuk will be the fourth administrator since the village’s creation in 2017. The first, Patrick Casey, was the town of Salem administrator, and he left in 2018. Casey was succeeded by Mike Murdock from Sept. 2018 until Aug. 2023, when the Village Board approved a separation agreement with him. Cassandra Hiller was hired in fall 2023 and resigned in Aug. 2025.
Kostiuk was among 19 applicants for the position considered qualified for the job, Shambeau said. That field was narrowed to 3, who were interviewed by the board Nov. 10.
Suspect apprehended in Trevor shots fired incident
The suspect in a Trevor shots fired incident has been arrested and is in custody.
From a Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office news release:
On November 18th, 2025, at approximately 10:48 a.m., Racine County Sheriff’s deputies took Jake Wenzel into custody following a vehicle and foot pursuit.
The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office (KESO) received an anonymous tip indicating that Wenzel was at the Esmond Motel in Union Grove. Deputies responded to the area and observed Wenzel and the victim enter a silver vehicle. When deputies initiated a traffic stop, the victim exited the vehicle. Wenzel then moved into the driver’s seat and fled at a high rate of speed.
Deputies pursued the vehicle until Wenzel lost control, crashed into a tree, and fled on foot. A foot pursuit followed and was supported by two Racine County Sheriff’s Office K9 teams. Wenzel was taken into custody a short time later without further incident.
Statement from Sheriff David Zoerner:
“I want to commend the deputies, K9 teams, and all assisting personnel for their swift and decisive actions today. Their teamwork and dedication led to the safe apprehension of a dangerous individual and prevented further harm to our community. I’m grateful for the cooperation between agencies and for the vigilance of the public in sharing critical information. This is a strong example of how we work together to keep Racine County safe.”
Sheriff’s office seeks info on man suspected of shooting into Trevor house
The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office is seeking information on a man at large who is suspected of shooting at a house in Trevor.
From a KSOE news release:
On November 16th, 2025, at approximately 11:43 PM, the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office (KESO) responded to a report of shots fired at a residence in the 10400 block of 268th Avenue in Trevor, Wisconsin. The caller, a female resident, reported that 29-year-old man Jake Wenzel had fired a round into her home.
Deputies learned that an altercation between Wenzel and the victim had occurred prior to the incident. Before law enforcement arrived, a gunshot was heard in the area. The victim returned home shortly after, parked in the driveway, and ran into the residence through a rear entrance. Moments later, Wenzel arrived in a 2024 silver Dodge Ram pickup, exited the truck, and approached the victim’s vehicle while armed with a handgun. He pointed the firearm at the vehicle and yelled for the victim to exit. The victim’s sister, who is the homeowner, was outside and ordered Wenzel to leave. Wenzel then turned toward the residence and fired one round into the structure before fleeing the scene in his vehicle.
At approximately 6:00 AM, Deputies located Wenzel’s abandoned truck in the Center Lake Woods subdivision.
The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office Detective Bureau responded to the scene and is actively pursuing multiple leads.
Wenzel has an extensive criminal history, including prior convictions for Felon in Possession of a Firearm, Possession with Intent to Distribute Amphetamines, Party to a Crime – Felony Attempted Theft, and is currently out on a $7,500 bond for Felony Terrorist Threats. In addition, Wenzel currently has active felony warrants for his arrest.
Wenzel should be considered armed and dangerous. The public is urged not to approach him. Anyone with information on his whereabouts is asked to contact the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office immediately.
The public is encouraged to report any information regarding the whereabouts of Jake Wenzel to Kenosha County Crime Stoppers at 262-656-7333.
Statement from Sheriff David Zoerner:
“Our deputies and detectives are using every available resource to locate Jake Wenzel and bring him into custody. Acts of violence like this will never be tolerated in Kenosha County. The safety of our residents remains our highest priority, and we will continue to work around the clock until this individual is apprehended. We ask the community to remain alert and to report any information that may assist in this investigation. Together, we will ensure that those who threaten the peace and security of our neighborhoods are held accountable.”
Units responding for crash along Bristol-Paris border
At about 1:30 p.m., Bristol Fire and Rescue units are responding to a crash at Highways K and D along the Bristol-Paris border.
Per dispatch: An injury being reported.
Agenda: Twin Lakes Village Board regular meeting Nov. 17, 2025
The Twin Lakes Village Board is scheduled to meet Monday starting at 6;30 p.m. at Village Hall.
Agenda items include:
- Discussion and possible action regarding Financing Commitment Term Sheet from State Bank of the Lakes for a $2,000,000 loan with a 5-year term.
- Discussion and possible action regarding a Financial Commitment Letter from Wintust at State Bank of the Lakes.
- Discussion and possible action regarding an Engagement Letter from Quarles for Bond Counsel.
- Public Hearing on the 2026 Village Budget.
- 2026 Village Budget Workshop #5
- Discussion and possible action regarding a quote from CivicPlus for a new Village website.
- Discussion and possible action regarding Ordinance 2025-11-2 Amending Chapter 5.20.010 (5) of the Twin Lakes Code Pertaining to Definitions Applicable to Liquor and Beverage Licenses.
- Discussion and possible action regarding a Short-Term Rental Application for 624 Lake St., Lane & Kylee Johnson, Owners.
- Discussion and possible action regarding Ordinance 2025-11-3 Amending section 9.80.020(F) and 9.80.020(G) of the Twin Lakes Code relating to Restrictions on Tobacco Products and Vapor Products.
- Consideration of a motion to approve Ordinance 2025-11-1 Amending Section 13.04.230 of the Twin Lakes Code Pertaining to Sewer Service Charges.
- Consideration of a motion to approve awarding the 2026 Sanitary Sewer Lining Project contract to Hoerr Construction, including the supplemental items.
- Consideration of a motion to approve awarding the 2026-2030 Sanitary Sewer System Cleaning contract to National Power Rodding Corp in the amount of $284,614.20.
- Consideration of a motion to approve a request by Twin Runners Snowmobile Club to allow snowmobile access through Legion Park.
- Consideration of a motion to appoint Zack Weddig to the Cemetery Board.
- Consideration of a motion to appoint Jessica Skinner to the Cemetery Board.
- Consideration of a motion to appoint Bill Kaskin to the Cemetery Board
Salem Lakes set to appoint new village administrator
Salem Lakes appears to be on the verge of appointing a new village administrator.
The Village Board interviewed three candidates Monday at a special meeting The board took no action after that meeting’s closed session, said village President Rita Bucur in an email message to westofthei.com.
However, an agenda for Tuesday’s regular Village Board meeting includes an item that appears to suggest a hiring is imminent: “Presentation of Final Candidate for Village Administrator and Confirmation/Appointment by the Village Board.”
The next hire will be the fourth administrator since the village’s creation in 2017. The first, Patrick Casey, was the town of Salem administrator, and he left in 2018. Casey was succeeded by Mike Murdock from Sept. 2018 until Aug. 2023, when the Village Board approved a separation agreement with him. Cassandra Hiller was hired in fall 2023 and resigned in Aug. 2025.
Units responding for fire in Twin Lakes
At about 4:54 p.m., Twin Lakes Fire and Rescue, Town of Randall Fire Department and Wheatland Vol. Fire Department units and Twin Lakes Police are responding to a report of possible fire in the 200 block of Burden Avenue in Twin Lakes.
Per dispatch: This is being reported as a possible furnace fire.
UPDATE 4:59 p.m. — Twin Lakes command on the scene calls off response from Wheatland and Randall.
UPDATE about 9 p.m. — TLFR issued the following news release via Facebook stating there was no structure fire at this location as well as recapping two other incidents:
Agenda: Wheatland budget hearing special meeting of electors & special Town Board meeting Nov. 17, 2025
Monday will be a busy meeting day in Wheatland with a town budget hearing, a special meeting of electors and a special Town Board meeting scheduled.
The budget hearing will be first at 6 p.m. There will be a presentation and review of the 2026 Town Budget.
The special meeting of electors will follow the budget hearing. This meeting will include Resolution No. 2025-04 – Adopt a 2025 town general tax levy and streetlight district levies to be paid in 2026 pursuant to Section 60.10(1)(a) of the Wisconsin State Statutes.
The special Town Board meeting will take place after the electors meeting. This meeting will include: Adoption of 2026 Town budget pursuant to Section 60.40 (4).
A word from our sponsors: Nov. 16, 2025 open houses from Bear Realty’s Glenda and Butch Dupons
Note: Glenda and Butch Dupons, of Bear Realty, are westofthei.com sponsors. This is a paid announcement — DH
Here are open houses being hosted today by Glenda and Butch Dupons, of Bear Realty:
Units responding for fire in Brighton
At about 2:25 p.m., Salem Lakes Fire/Rescue units are responding to the 24600 block of 31st Street in Brighton.
Per dispatch: This is being reported as a grass fire in a road side ditch.
A word from our sponsors: Nov. 15, 2025 open houses from Bear Realty’s Glenda and Butch Dupons
Note: Glenda and Butch Dupons, of Bear Realty, are westofthei.com sponsors. This is a paid announcement — DH
Here are open houses being hosted today by Glenda and Butch Dupons, of Bear Realty:
Units on scene of crash in Bristol
At about 7:15 p.m., Bristol Fire and Rescue units are on the scene of a crash at Highways 45 and C in Bristol.
Deaths Nov. 14, 2025: George Jonas Bellefeuille
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:
Continue reading →A word from our sponsors: Horbach Chiropractic welcomes Dr. Chandler Hoffner
Note: This is a paid announcement from Horbach Chiropractic — DH
Dr. Chandler Hoffner has joined the staff at Horbach Chiropractic in Trevor.
Dr. Hoffner is a Michigan native and a graduate of Central Michigan University, where he earned his Bachelor of Science degree in Biomedical Science in 2010. He went on to receive his Doctor of Chiropractic (D.C.) degree from the National University of Health Sciences in Lombard, Illinois, in August 2023.
Before pursuing a career in chiropractic care, Dr. Hoffner spent over a decade in the explosives industry, gaining unique experiences that helped shape his work ethic and dedication. In 2019, he made the life-changing decision to follow his passion for health and wellness by transitioning into the field of Chiropractic Medicine.
Dr. Hoffner and his wife, Alexis, have since relocated to Wisconsin to be closer to family and friends—and, of course, to support their favorite team, the Green Bay Packers. Outside of the clinic, he enjoys golfing, traveling, and spending time on the water whenever he can.
Make an appointment with Dr. Hoffner today at 262-862-6001
Horbach Chiropractic is located at 12027 Antioch Road, Trevor, WI.
Deputies responding for crash in Bristol
At about 3:47 p.m., sheriff’s deputies are responding to crash at Highways C.and D in Bristol.
Per dispatch: One lane blocked
Units responding for brush fire in Brighton
At about 12:25 p.m., Kansasville Fire and Rescue units are responding to a report of a fire in the 30400 block of Burlington Road (Highway 142) in Brighton.
Per dispatch: Caller reporting a brush fire.
UPDATE 12:31 p.m. — Paris Fire and Rescue requested to respond as mutual aid with a brush truck and UTV.
UPDATE about 12:37 p.m. — Deputy reports fire located in road side ditch.
UPDATE about 12:44 p.m. — Kansasville unit on scene reports fire almost out. Paris dispatched to stand down.
Units responding for burning in Paddock Lake
At about 11:a.m., Salem Lakes Fire/Rescue units are responding to a report of a burning in the 24900 block of 70th Street in Paddock Lake.
Salem Lakes man arrested for internet crimes against children
A Salem Lakes man was arrested this week and awaits formal charges regarding internet crimes against children.
From the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office (note: westofthei.com does not publish names of defendants until they have been formally charged. The name of the defendant in this press release has been removed):
On October 17th, 2024, the Kenosha Police Department (KPD) received a cyber tip indicating that an individual was distributing child sexual abuse material (CSAM) through the messaging platform WhatsApp. The subject, identified as a 45-year-old man …, was initially residing in the City of Kenosha. During the course of that investigation, it was determined that the man had moved to the Village of Salem Lakes, at which point the case was transferred to the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office (KESO).
KESO subsequently received several additional cyber tips involving the man. On January 31st, 2025, he was reported to have uploaded and distributed CSAM through WhatsApp. Another tip on April 20th, 2025, indicated the same activity using WhatsApp. A third tip on June 4th, 2025, showed he had uploaded and distributed CSAM via Snapchat, and the most recent tip, received on August 3rd, 2025, again involved the distribution of CSAM through WhatsApp.
KESO Detectives identified a vehicle associated with the suspect and learned that the man had an active felony warrant out of Arizona for larceny and a probation/parole violation. This information was provided to the KESO Patrol Division to assist in locating the man.
On November 12th, 2025, at approximately 8:30 p.m., a KESO deputy conducted a traffic stop on the suspect vehicle. The man was a passenger in the vehicle and was taken into custody without incident. He was transported to and booked into the Kenosha County Jail.
On November 13th, 2025, KESO Detectives executed a search warrant at the man’s residence and seized multiple cell phones, laptops, tablets, a personal-use amount of marijuana, and marijuana paraphernalia as evidence.
The man is currently being held in the Kenosha County Jail on ten counts of possession of child pornography, as well as the felony arrest warrant out of Arizona.
Through coordination with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), investigators also confirmed that the man is in the United States illegally. Following the arrest, Sheriff David Zoerner worked directly with ICE to ensure an ICE detainer was placed on this suspect.
Sheriff Zoerner issued the following statement:
“The protection of Kenosha County’s children and families will always be at the core of our mission. These investigations require persistence and teamwork, and I’m proud of the strong, continued working relationship we maintain with ICE and our fellow law enforcement agencies. We stay in close communication with ICE on a daily basis to ensure offenders like this are identified and brought to justice. This arrest highlights the importance of standing together and remaining committed to the safety of the people we serve.”
A word from our sponsors: ADRC offers free benefit assistance for Medicare Annual Open Enrollment – Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage plans
Note: The following is a paid announcement from Aging and Disability Resource Center Kenosha County — DH
Medicare’s Annual Open Enrollment Period is October 15–December 7. It’s an important time of year for those on Medicare to review current coverage and see if any changes are needed for the coming year. Medicare Part D and Medicare Advantage plan details often change every year. Sorting through all the options to find the right plan for prescriptions can be confusing but Benefit Specialists at the Aging and Disability Resource Center Kenosha County (ADRC) can assist.
ADRC Benefit Specialists offer objective and reliable information and assistance. There is no charge for this service. The Benefit Specialists do not sell or endorse any insurance plans. Benefit Specialists at the ADRC are trained to carefully review current coverage and compare plans with other options based on medications and other details. Benefit Specialists also check to see if beneficiaries qualify for programs or benefits that can save money.
There are four basic reasons to check your plan:
- Your plan may cost more next year
- Your plan may no longer cover all your medications
- Your plan may have put new restrictions on some of your medications
- You may be taking new medications now
Workshops will be offered throughout Kenosha County and virtually beginning on October 20.
Locations WEST of I-94
Twin Lakes Library, 110 S Lake Ave., Meeting Room
- Tuesday, Nov. 25, 1–4 p.m.
Paddock Lake Village Office, 6969 236th Ave., Salem
- Wednesday, Nov. 19, 1–4 p.m.
VIRTUAL
- Thursday, Nov. 20, 9:30 a.m.–12:30 p.m.
Locations EAST of I-94
Kenosha County Job Center, 8600 Sheridan Rd., Door D
- Tuesday, Dec. 2, 12:30-3:30 p.m. (Rm. S11)
- Thursday, Dec. 4, Noon- 3 p.m.
SW Neighborhood Library, 7979 – 38th Ave., Rm. A
- Monday, Nov. 17, 12:30–3:30 p.m.
- Monday, Nov. 24, 10 a.m. –1 p.m.
Appointments are limited. To ensure sufficient support, reservations are required. For further information or to make reservations call the Aging and Disability Resource Center Kenosha County at 262-605-6646.
Richard Ferrari Traner appointed director of Kenosha County Division of Public Health & health officer
From the Kenosha County Executive’s Office:
County Executive Samantha Kerkman (Wednesday) announced the appointment of Richard Ferrari Traner to serve as Director of the Kenosha County Division of Public Health and the county’s Health Officer.
Ferrari Traner comes to Kenosha County from the Wisconsin Department of Children and Families, where he worked roughly four years as Manager of the Prevention and Early Intervention Section.
Prior to that, Ferrari Traner was a Health Project Supervisor for the City of Milwaukee Health Department and a Human Service Worker for the Milwaukee County Department on Aging. A veteran of the Wisconsin Army National Guard, he served as a Director of Plans Coordination, supervising up to 200 soldiers at the Company level.
Ferrari Traner holds a Bachelor and Master of Social Work from the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh.
“With his broad experience on the state and local levels and his impressive credentials, I’m confident Ricky will be a highly effective leader of the county’s Public Health operations,” Kerkman said. “I am pleased to welcome him to Kenosha County.”
Ferrari Traner began serving in the position on an interim basis on Monday, pending final confirmation by the County Board. His appointment passed the Human Services Committee on a unanimous vote last week and will go before the full board Nov. 18.
Ferrari Traner succeeds former Health Director Lori Plahmer, who resigned earlier this year.
“As the new Kenosha County Health Officer, I bring to this role years of experience in federal, state and local prevention, logistics and organizational leadership,” Ferrari Traner said. “I look forward to collaborating with other community leaders to ensure the health and well-being of Kenosha County residents and their families.”
Kenosha County Human Services Director John Jansen said he, too, welcomes Ferrari Traner to his department’s leadership team.
“From the city and county of Milwaukee to the state and the Wisconsin Natural Guard, Ricky has been a leader in many arenas,” Jansen said. “I look forward to working with him on the many programs and services that Public Health provides.”
More information about Kenosha County Public Health and its various functions is available at
https://www.kenoshacountywi.gov/Health.
Deaths Nov. 12, 2025: Kathleen Christine Daniels
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:
Continue reading →
