Western Kenosha County's news source
Cub Scout Pack 328 is having a Dine to Donate Fundraiser at Texas Roadhouse in Kenosha, Nov. 9 from from 3 to 10 pm.
Enter the barcode from this flyer and 10 percent of your purchase will be donated to Pack 328. Order takeout and use code JMGZTWB.
Texas Roadhouse is located at 11841 71st St., Kenosha.
The Trevor-Wilmot Consolidated School District issued a statement Wednesday after its second failed operational referendum this year.
In the statement, school board President Sandy Quaintance said the outcome will necessitate “significant operating budget reductions.”
The district was seeking authority to exceed the revenue limit by $1,900,000 per year for four years. The measure failed by a vote of No 967 (56.29%) to Yes 751 (43.71%).
Here is the full statement:
Voters in the Trevor-Wilmot Consolidated Grade School District did not approve a four-year, non-recurring operational referendum question on Tuesday, Nov. 3, by a vote of 967 (56.29%) No, to 751 (43.71%) Yes, according to unofficial results.
“Thank you to every community member who took the time to learn about the referendum question and vote,” said School Board President Sandy Quaintance. “This decision belongs to our community, and the board respects it.”
The referendum asked to exceed the state revenue limit by $1.9 million per year for four years, which would have replaced expiring local funding, including an operational referendum approved in 2022.
To address a growing budget deficit, the district has made significant reductions, including suspending summer school, reducing staff positions and hours, combining bus routes, delaying technology replacement, and deferring building maintenance projects.
Beginning next school year, the district will no longer have voter-approved authority to exceed the state revenue limit. The School Board will need to make significant operating budget reductions to address a projected deficit. No decisions have been made about which programs and services will be impacted.
“As we plan for next school year, the decisions ahead will be hard,” Quaintance said. “Our students will be at the center of every one.”
The School Board will begin 2027–28 budget planning at its meeting on January 26th, 2027, at Trevor-Wilmot School. The meeting is open to the public.
About Trevor-Wilmot Consolidated Grade School District: Trevor-Wilmot is a PreK–8 district serving about 425 students at Trevor-Wilmot School, 26325 Wilmot Rd., Trevor, Wis. Learn more at twc.k12.wi.us.
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 →Westosha Drama will present Mamma Mia! this weekend at Westosha Central High School.
Show times are: Nov. 6 & 7 at 7 pm and Nov. 8 at 2 pm.
General Admission tickets are: $10; Students: $5.
For more ticket information and to purchase tickets visit westoshadrama.com
Drawn from the works of the Swedish pop group, ABBA, this jukebox musical enraptures you into the life of Sophie Sheridan, an engaged 20 year old who has never met her father. As her wedding hastily approaches, she invites 3 possible paternal candidates in hopes that she will find him. At the same time, Donna Sheridan, Sophie’s mother, is stretched to her limits over her daughter’s wedding. Faced with her former lovers, Donna must look back on her past while facing both her and Sophie’s future. Set on the fictional Greek island of Kalokairi, Mamma Mia! is a tale of love and identity sure to make you feel like you’re on vacation.
Note: The following is a paid announcement from Riverport Chorus — DH
From the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office:
At approximately 5:42 a.m. on Wednesday, November 4, 2026, the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office Detective Bureau executed a search warrant at a residence in the 37000 block of 52nd Street in Kenosha County as part of an investigation involving alleged child sexual abuse material (CSAM).
The investigation was referred to the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office by the Racine County Sheriff’s Office on October 27, 2026.
As a result of the investigation, Thomas W. Johnson, a 51-year-old man, superintendent of Union Grove High School, was taken into custody. Investigators seized several electronic devices during the execution of the search warrant.
The Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office has submitted two counts of Possession of Child Pornography to the Kenosha County District Attorney’s Office for charging consideration. Mr. Johnson was booked into the Kenosha County Jail this morning.
Sheriff David Zoerner issued the following statement:
“The protection of children is one of the most serious responsibilities of law enforcement. Allegations involving the sexual exploitation of children demand a thorough, deliberate, and impartial investigation. Our detectives will continue to follow the evidence wherever it leads, and we will work closely with the District Attorney’s Office to ensure this matter is addressed through the appropriate legal process. Anyone who exploits children must be held accountable under the law.”
This is still an ongoing investigation. No further information will be released at this time.
At about 5:03 p.m., Paris Fire and Rescue units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to a crash in the 14300 block of 12th Street in Paris.
Per dispatch: Single vehicle in ditch. Injury being reported.
UPDATE 5:07 p.m. — Paris command arriving on scene reports single vehicle on its side. Dispatch reports deputy on scene says occupant is trapped in vehicle.
UPDATE about 5:19 p.m. — Paris command requests status of Flight for Life medical transport helicopter.
UPDATE 5:21 p.m. — Dispatch reports that flight unable to fly due to weather.
There is a contest on the Nov. 3 ballot for Kenosha County clerk of circuit court.
Incumbent Rebecca Matoska-Mentink did not run for re-election. Looking to fill the spot are Republican Zach Rodriguez and Democrat Brian Sheffler.
Early incomplete, unofficial results at 8:50 p.m. show:
UPDATE 8:53 p.m. — Latest results show:
UPDATE 9:07 p.m. — Latest results show:
UPDATE 9:26 p.m. — Latest results show:
UPDATE 10:20 p.m. — Latest results show:
UPDATE 4:47 a.m., Wednesday — Latest results show the following (these reflect all Election Day and Central Count absentee votes):
Voters in the Twin Lakes No. 4 School District (Lakewood School) had an operational referendum on the Nov. 3 election ballot.
The district is seeking to exceed the revenue limit by $800,000 per year for four years.
Early unofficial and perhaps incomplete results at 8:44 p.m. show:
Voters in the Trevor-Wilmot Consolidated School District have an operational referendum on the Nov. 3 election ballot.
The district is seeking authority to exceed the revenue limit by $1,900,000 per year for four years.
Unofficial, incomplete results at 8:36 p.m. show:
UPDATE 8:55 p.m. — Latest results show:
UPDATE 9:24 p.m. — Latest results show:
UPDATE 9:24 p.m. — Latest results show:
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 →At about 6:48 p.m., Salem Lakes Fire/Rescue units are responding to a crash in the 27800 block of 75th Street (Highway 50) in Salem Lakes.
Per dispatch: This is a vehicle versus deer crash. Injured person being reported.
At about 6:20 a.m., Salem Lakes Fire/Rescue units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to a report of a crash in the 23900 block of Highway C in Trevor.
Per dispatch: Two vehicles involved. Injuries being reported.
Western Kenosha County voters can cast ballots in the fall partisan election Tuesday, Nov. 3.
Polls are open from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Your polling place may have changed recently if you live in Salem Lakes. If you used to vote at the Wilmot Fire Station (wards 7,8,9,10) you will now vote at Salem Lakes Fire/Rescue Station No. 1, 11252 254th Ct., Trevor. If you used to vote at Silver Lake Village Hall (11,12,13) you will now vote at Salem Lakes Village Hall, 9814 Antioch Rd, Salem. Voters who already voted at Salem Lakes Village Hall (wards 1,2,3,4,5,6) will continue to do so.
Voters can find their polling place here.
Wisconsin voters will be selecting their representative to the US House of Representatives. Incumbent Republican Bryan Steil is being challenged by Democrat Mitchell Berman.
State legislature and constitutional offices of governor/lieutenant governor, attorney general, secretary of state and state treasurer are on the ballot. Statewide. there are three referendum questions that relate to proposed amendments to the state constitution.
Two local school districts will have referendums on the ballot.
Note: The following is a paid announcement from the village of Paddock Lake — DH
The Village of Paddock Lake invites proposals from qualified landscape contractors to maintain lawns at various municipal parks, facilities and public lands within the village for the 2027 & 2028 seasons. The contractor should have:
For details about assignment, scope of work and the deliverables, obtain RFP Packet at Village Office: 6969 236th Ave.
Submission deadline is Dec. 29, 2026 at 3 p.m.
At about 9 p.m., Town of Randall Fire Department and Twin Lakes Rescue units are responding to a report of a fire at Highways C and KD in Randall.
Per dispatch: Fire in road side ditch being reported.
UPDATE 9:04 p.m. — Randall command reports a small box of fireworks burning. Units still responding released.
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 →At about 11:55 a.m., Town of Randall Fire Department, Wheatland Vol Fire Department and Twin Lakes Rescue units are responding for a possible gas line break in the 9000 block of Lake Park Drive in Powers Lake.
Per dispatch: Telecommunications crew drilling in area struck a gas line. No smell or hissing detected.
The Salem Lakes Village Board is scheduled to hold a special meeting Monday, starting at 5 p.m. at Village Hall in Salem.
The meeting also will be livestreamed and available for later viewing here.
Agenda items include:
The Twin Lakes Village Board is scheduled to hold committee of the whole and special board meetings On MOnday, starting at 6:30 p.m. at Village Hall.
The committee of the whole meeting is first. Agenda items include:
The full committee of the whole meeting agenda is available here.
The special board meeting will follow the committee of the whole meeting. Agenda items include:
The full agenda for the special board meeting is available here.
Note: The following is a paid announcement from westofthei.com — DH
The Village of Paddock Lake is conducting a sealed bid sale of surplus Village equipment which is located in the Village of Paddock Lake, Kenosha County, Wisconsin, and is accepting sealed bids until Wednesday November 25, 2026, at 3:00 pm. The surplus equipment being offered for sale are the following:
2001 FORD F-350, 4 X 4 DUMP BODY WITH PLOW
2002 STERLING L-8500, DUMP BODY
ALL BIDS ARE DUE NO LATER THAN WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 25, 2026, AT 3:00 PM
Vehicle can be inspected between 8:00 am and 3:00 pm Monday through Friday at the Village Hall, 6969-236th Ave. Paddock Lake, WI. 53168.
More information on bid procedures are available here,
The following students with local connections have been admitted to the Professional Education program in fall 2026 at the University of Wisconsin as part of their journey toward entering the workforce as educators:
These students have now begun taking upper-level courses for licensure required for their degree program on the way to student teaching, the final activity before teacher candidates earn their degree and teaching license.
This milestone in a student’s college career helps ensure students are confident about becoming educators and on track to meet both UWW graduation and Wisconsin teaching licensure requirements.
Qualifications, which include credits completed, grade point average and a completion of certain foundational coursework, differ based on major and licensure level.
Note: The following is a paid announcement from Riverport Chorus — DH
Paddock Lake Area Lions Club will hold a spaghetti dinner fundraiser at Luisa’s at 6806 317th Avenue on Monday, Nov. 2 from 4 to 7pm.
The dinner includes Luisa’s spaghetti and meatballs, salad, bread and a cookie. Tickets are $15 with children 6 to 12 $10. Children 5 and under are free. Tickets can be purchased from Lions Clubs members or at the door. Gluten free dinners are also available. Carry out also is available.
While you’re there tickets are also available for many basket drawings. There will also be a drawing for the sportsman raffle, which includes a rifle, shotgun, pistol, chainsaw and weed wacker. Tickets for this are $10 each and can be purchased from Lion members or at the dinner.
Proceeds benefit the community through the service projects of this club.
At about 1:03 p.m., Bristol Fire and Rescue and Paris Fire and Rescue units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to a crash at Highways 45 and K along the Bristol-Paris border.
Per dispatch: Two vehicles involved. Injuries being reported.
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 →
The Twin Lakes 1st Annual Community Halloween Light Parade took place Friday.
The event, organized by Dena Prestininzi and Laura Kaskin, featured lighted entries of various types on a route from North Lake Avenue, through downtown and out to Lance Park.
Here is a video of dance routine set to Thriller:
Here are some more photos from the event:
Continue reading →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 →From Wheatland J1 School District
At the October Board meeting the Wheatland J1 School Board approved District Administrator Martin McGinley’s notice of retirement. He will retire at the conclusion of the 2026-27 School year after 14 years with the District. During his tenure, the District has passed 5 referendums and has reduced the tax levy in 13 of those 14 years. The most recent referendum was a 4 year operating referendum which passed with overwhelming community support in April of 2026. This unprecedented success and local support has solidified Wheatland’s place as a leader in the area for years to come.
In his resignation letter Mr. McGinley spoke fondly of his time at Wheatland. “ I want to thank the Wheatland School Board for entrusting me with this incredible responsibility and opportunity. At the conclusion of this year, I will have spent the last 14 years of my career at Wheatland and I wouldn’t change a thing. I have been blessed to work with so many dedicated professionals and I am grateful for their commitment to the Wheatland students. Their care for students is unmatched, and they are the singular reason we have experienced so much success. All members of the staff have continued to grow and hone their craft to uphold our promise of student success. I could not be more proud of what we have accomplished together. Wheatland is a very special place.”
Since 2014, the district has gone from an enrollment of 400 students to its current enrollment of approximately 650 students. This year students have come to Wheatland from 15 school districts and well over 400 square miles. Wheatland students have extended learning options in Science, Technology, Arts and Math and nearly all students participate in some form of extracurricular activity. Wheatland also recently added the Southeast Virtual Academy in a partnership with Westosha Central and began accepting students in August. SVA is a unique virtual charter with robust hybrid options, thereby impacting students and expanding Wheatland’s reach across the entire state of Wisconsin. Wheatland students continue to exceed expectations on Wisconsin’s school report card, which includes exceptional student growth that outpaces most districts in the state.
Board President Heidie Dunn expressed appreciation for McGinley’s leadership over the past 14 years, stating, “Mr. McGinley has guided Wheatland Center School in such a way that the future of the district is secure thanks to the systems, community connections, and leadership opportunities he has created throughout his tenure. We are grateful for his service to the staff, students, and the Wheatland community, but know that the transition to new leadership will be smooth, thanks in large part to what he has built here.”
The district will be taking applications for the position of District Administrator in the Wheatland J1 School District through the school’s website. The position will begin on July 1, 2027.
Note: This is a paid announcement from Paddock Lake Area Lions Club — DH
News from Kenosha Lens
