West of the I

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.

At about 9:55 a.m., Twin Lakes Fire and Rescue, Town of Randall Fire Department and Wheatland Vol. Fire Department units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to a crash in the 31700 block of Highway C in Wilmot.

Per dispatch: Single vehicle crash. Vehicle is off the road on north side.

UPDATE 10:05 a.m. — Units on scene can handle incident, reports Randall command. All units enroute can cancel and return to quarters.

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 Pringle Nature Center secured its location at Bristol Woods County Park for another 10 years by signing a lease with the county this week.

From Kenosha County:

Kenosha County Executive Samantha Kerkman this week joined leaders of the Pringle Nature Center in celebrating the signing of a long-term agreement to continue the center’s operations in Bristol Woods Park. 

The County Board recently approved a 10-year lease between the county and the nonprofit Pringle organization, which operates the nature center and its programming. 

“This is really a great partnership that started many years ago, and I want to thank our forefathers for putting this together,” Kerkman said. “This is what makes us stronger as a community and a county, when we work together with our public-private partnerships.” 

The nature center was made possible by a $50,000 donation in 1983 from the family of Robert D. Pringle, a Bristol farmer who was a longtime member of the county Parks Commission and an avid outdoorsman. That bequest grew with interest to $112,000 by the time the nature center building was constructed in 1997. 

Today, the Pringle Nature Center bills itself as a gateway to environmental learning in southeastern Wisconsin, providing environmental education to school groups, youth organizations, families, and adults. 

The center hosts a series of recurring community events, including a Fall Fun Festival — to be held this year from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 26 — a Groundhog Day celebration, nature story times, trail runs and hikes, and more. It is a frequent destination for school field trips. 

Bristol Woods Park, located at 9800 160^th Ave. (Highway MB), contains 197 acres of upland forest, wetland, oak savannah remnants, and prairie habitats, as well as more than four miles of trails. The park also houses another public-private partnership with the county: the Boundless Adventures aerial adventure park. 

Kenosha County Parks and Pringle also jointly host the weekly Bristol Woodstock concert series, held each Wednesday during the summer. The lease signing ceremony was held Wednesday, prior to the start of this season’s final concert. 

Pringle is led by Executive Director Elizabeth Alvey and is staffed by other employees and volunteers. 

“We just want to thank the county for the support and for giving us another 10 years to operate the nature center,” said Nick Spittlemeister, chairman of the Pringle board. “We’re looking forward to all the things that we can do here and beyond in the county.” 

More information about Pringle Nature Center is available at https://www.pringlenc.org. 

Scout Pack and Troop 328 has some fundraising events planned for coming weeks.

Scouts will be conducting a car wash and meat stick sale on Sept. 12 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Salem School

The Scouts also have popcorn and meat stick sales scheduled for 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Sept. 5, 13, 26 and Oct. 3 at Express Market by Festival Foods in Paddock Lake

An end to the mid summer temperatures we have seen in early September is in sight.

Friday will be more of the same, a high temp around 90, heat index around 99, dew point as high as 75, says the latest, local National Weather Service forecast. There’s a 50 percent chance of rain overnight.

Saturday will be cooler, with a high of 82 and a low of 63. That trend will continue Sunday with a high of 79 and a high Monday, Labor Day, of 80.

The Salem Lakes Village Board Tuesday agreed to appoint someone to fill a vacancy on the board.

The vacancy was created by the resignation in August of Trustee Amanda Procknow, who said in her resignation letter that she would no longer be a resident of the village as of Aug. 28.

Applicants interested in filling the seat must:

• Reside within the village of Salem Lakes
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Be an eligible elector

To apply, qualified individuals can submit a letter of interest and completed application to the Village Clerk either in person or by email at clerk@voslwi.gov. Application can be found online at https://voslwi.gov/jobs

Applications will be accepted until 4 p.m. on Sept. 30.

Procknow was elected to her first term on the board last April. Her term was to continue until April 2028.

On Tuesday, board members discussed alternatives for addressing the vacancy.

There were three alternatives, said village administrator Michael Kostiuk: Leave the seat open, hold a special election or make an appointment.

Leaving the seat open could set up a scenario where the board could dead lock with 3-3 votes.

Holding a special election could be done at no additional cost if it was done in conjunction with the April 2027 election, but that would leave the seat open until then. Having a stand alone election would cost between $10-15,000, village Clerk Sara Spencer said county officials estimate. It also would need to be precisely timed in relation to the April election.

All board members present Tuesday seemed to favor making an appointment, and the motion to follow that path was approved by unanimous vote.

Village President Rita Bucur said she felt a precedent was set when the board used a similar process to appoint Peter Poli to the board after the resignation of Kelly Sweeting in 2024.

Bucur asked each trustee to come up with a question to ask the applicants at a meeting. Applicants will not have access to the questions before the meeting.

Kostiuk suggested the village formulate a policy for filling vacancies to establish a procedure for future vacancies.

At about 5:33 p.m., Paris Fire and Rescue, Bristol Fire and Rescue and Pleasant Prairie Fire and Rescue and sheriff’s deputies are responding to a fire in the 2800 block of 168th Avenue in Paris.

Per dispatch: This is being reported as a barn fire. Barn is not near a residence.

UPDATE 5:40 p.m. — Deputy on scene confirms to dispatch that barn is on fire. Trees nearby.

UPDATE 5:42 p.m. — Paris command activates box alarm. Additional departments now responding include: Newport Fire Protection District, Winthrop Harbor Fire Department, Union Grove Fire and Rescue, Kenosha Fire Department, Twin Lakes Fire and Rescue.

UPDATE about 5:45 p.m. — Unit on scene reports no animals in barn.

UPDATE 5:59 p.m. — Paris command reports to dispatch that fire is under control. Box alarm being struck. Units not on scene can return to quarters.

UPDATE 6 p.m. — Paris command requests response from We Energies.

A swim caution for Paddock Hooker Lakes Association beach has been lifted after resampling by Kenosha County Wednesday showed E.coli levels within acceptable range there.

The State Department of Health recommends posting warnings at beaches when test results indicate an E.coli level of 235/100mL or more and closing a beach when test results exceed E.coli 1000/100mL.

The result from Wednesday that prompted lifting the caution at PHLA beach was 148 E.coli/100 mL.

At 10:03 a.m., Twin Lakes Fire and Rescue and Twin Lakes Police units are responding to a business in the 100 block of North Lake Avenue for an investigation.

Per dispatch: Caller reporting natural gas odor.

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: