West of the I

A fire on Hawthorn Drive in Twin Lakes Tuesday afternoon was located in an attached garage, causing tens of thousands of dollars of damage.

From a Twin Lakes Fire Department news release:

At approximately 12:05 p.m. today, Twin Lakes Fire/Rescue, Town of Randall Fire Department, Town of Wheatland Fire Department, and Richmond (Illinois) Fire Protection District were dispatched to a reported structure fire in the 200 block of Hawthorn Drive in Twin Lakes. Initial reports indicated smoke and flames were visible from the residence. Upon arrival, responding crews encountered a single-story residential structure with smoke showing. Firefighters located the fire in the back of the attached garage. Crews worked to contain and extinguish the fire, limiting the damage to the affected area. No occupants were home at the time of the incident, and no injuries were reported. Preliminary property damage estimates are approximately $50,000.
Following the incident, the occupants were provided with a Wagner Family Fire Fund Go Bag containing essential items to help them through the next several days. In January 2025, Twin Lakes Fire/Rescue implemented a staffing model that provides two full-time employees at the station 24 hours a day, seven days a week, with an additional supervisor on duty Monday through Thursday from 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. According to Fire Chief Redlin, the department’s staffing model played a critical role in the response and helped limit the damage to the residence. “Every second matters during a structure fire. Having personnel already in the station eliminates the delay associated with volunteers coming from home. However, our volunteers are indispensable to our
operations, with nine personnel coming from home today. Today’s incident demonstrates the value of having both, our full-time staffing and volunteers in place.” said Chief Redlin. In addition to the three personnel assigned to the station at the time of the incident, Chief Redlin was also present at the station and able to assist with the response. “I am proud of the work our firefighters
did today. Their readiness, professionalism, and quick action made a difference in this fire. And our mutual-aid partners ensured we could continue protecting the community while the fire incident was underway. This is what preparedness and teamwork looks like in practice.” Chief Redlin added. Twin Lakes Fire/Rescue extends its appreciation to all agencies that responded and assisted at the scene. The department also thanks Spring Grove Fire Protection District (Illinois) for handling a second medical call that occurred shortly after the structure fire was dispatched. To maintain uninterrupted emergency coverage throughout the incident, a change-of-quarters crew consisting of a Paris Ambulance, Salem Lakes Engine, and the Spring Grove Fire Chief staffed the Twin Lakes Station. This coverage helped ensure continued emergency response availability for the communities of Twin Lakes,
Randall, and Wheatland while local crews operated at the fire. The fire remains under investigation. No additional information will be released at this time.

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 4:05p.m., Bristol Fire and Rescue units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to 122nd Avenue and Highway C in Bristol for a crash.

At about 12:12 p.m., Twin Lakes Fire and Rescue, Town of Randall Fire Department and Wheatland Vol. Fire Department and Twin Police officers are responding to a report of a fire in the 200 block of Hawthorne Drive in Twin Lakes.

Per dispatch: Caller reporting smoke coming from house.

UPDATE about 12:15 p.m. — Unit on scene confirms smoke and flames. Twin Lakes command activates box alarm, bringing units from additional departments to the scene.

UPDATE about 12:18 p.m. — Dispatch reports utility company responding.

UPDATE 9:29 p.m. — Fire started in an attached garage. More information here.

The Salem School District is scheduled to host its annual meeting and a board meeting on Tuesday in the school large group instruction room.

The annual meeting is first at 6 p.m. Agenda items include:

• Financial Reports & Budget Presentation
• Budget Hearing
• Resolution A – Adoption of Tax Levy
• Resolution B – Salaries of Board Members
• Resolution C – Reimbursement of Board Members’ Expenses

The full annual meeting agenda is available here.

The board meeting will follow the annual meeting. Agenda items include:

• Finalize Budget/Levy Based on Property Valuation and State Aid Finalization
• Fund 46 Capital Long Term Plan
• Closed session for: Conferring with legal counsel for the governmental body who is rendering oral or written advice concerning strategy to be adopted by the body with respect to litigation in which it is or is likely to become involved, specifically regarding a professional staff member; and to discuss confidential student disciplinary matters and pupil records specifically regarding a middle school student.

The full regular meeting agenda is available here.

The Trevor-Wilmot Consolidated Grade School District is scheduled to hold its annual meeting and a board meeting Tuesday in the school library.

The annual meeting is first at 6 p.m. Agenda items include:

• Resolution 26-1 Adoption of Tax Levy
• Resolution 26-2 Authorizing the Board to conduct short-term borrowing to meet cash flow needs
• Resolution 26-3 Authorizing the sale of personal property and property no longer needed by the District
• Resolution 26-4 Authorizing the Board to rent or lease property or space
• Resolution 26-5 Authorizing and setting School Board salaries
• Resolution 26-6 Authorizing reimbursement of School Board Members’ expenses.
• Resolution 26-7 Authorizing the Board to schedule the 2026 Annual Meeting
• Resolution 26-8 Authorizing the Board to operate a District breakfast and lunch program
• Resolution 26-9 Authorizing the Board to designate the Fund 10 Balance for cash flow

The full annual meeting agenda is available here.

The board meeting will follow the annual meeting. Agenda items include:

• Achievement Gap Reduction Grant Report
• School Learning Objective (SLO) – Jon Kamlager
• Adoption of 2026- 2027 Budget
• Certification of 2026-2027 Tax Levy

The full board meeting agenda is available here.

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

Agenda items include:

• Request for a front street yard setback variance from the Kenosha County Zoning & Shoreland Floodplain Ordinance for the following: Mary J. Raysby, 1920 Garden St., Park Ridge, IL 60068 for property located at 40009 Bloomfield Rd., Powers Lake, Tax Parcel 95-4-119-073-0680. The existing building, with a 34.9 ft. street yard setback from Bloomfield Rd (CTH F), is proposed to be removed and a new structure, with a 24.9 ft. street yard setback from Bloomfield Rd (CTH F), would be constructed.
  The ordinance requires a street yard setback of 65 ft.
• Continued Camera Discussion
• Auditor vs Accountant Discussion
• Budget Workshop
• Finalize a 2027 budget for presentation to the public
• Set a date and time for the public hearing for the 2027 budget, special town meeting of electors to approval a levy, and town board budget approval
• Resolution 2026 – Set a Garbage/Recycling Special Charge – 2026 tax roll

The full agenda is available here.

Note: This is a paid announcement from H&R Block of Paddock Lake, Twin Lakes, Genoa City — DH

H&R Block is gearing up for the 2026 tax season, and we’re looking for friendly, dependable, and
customer-focused individuals to join our team! We are hiring for multiple seasonal positions at our offices in:

• Paddock Lake
• Twin Lakes
• Genoa City

Now Hiring for:

• Front Desk I Customer Service / Receptionists
• Tax Professionals (experienced or entry-level)

Front Desk Position Details

This is a seasonal opportunity (October 2026 through April 2027), ideal for individuals looking to gain
experience in a professional office environment while helping clients during an important time of year.

Responsibilities include:

• Welcoming clients and providing excellent first impressions
• Answering phones and scheduling appointments
• Managing client check-in/check-out processes
• Assisting with administrative and office support tasks
• Maintaining organized records and workflow

Tax Professional Opportunities

We are also seeking Tax Professionals for the upcoming season:

• Experienced tax preparers are encouraged to apply
• No experience? No problem!

H&R Block offers an Income Tax Course (ITC) for individuals interested in starting a career in tax preparation.

ITC Course Details:

Enrollment opens August 2026
• Learn the fundamentals of tax preparation
• Build valuable, in-demand skills
• Opportunity for employment upon completion

Candidates may qualify by:

• Successful completion of the ITC and passing the knowledge assessment

What We’re Looking For

• Strong communication and customer service skills
• Basic computer proficiency
• Organizational skills and attention to detail
• Positive attitude and reliability
• Ability to work in a fast-paced, team-oriented environment

Why Join H&R Block?

• Flexible scheduling options
• Supportive team environment
• Valuable training and career-building opportunities
• Seasonal roles with potential for future growth

Apply Today!

Positions are limited and fill quickly—apply early!

Apply in person at your local H&R Block office.

Human Resources Contact:
Kameo lanson
Phone: 262-843-3557
Email: kameo.ianson@hrblock.com

Start your journey with H&R Block—whether you’re greeting clients or preparing returns, you can make a difference this tax season!

The Randall Consolidated School Board is scheduled to hold a special meeting Monday starting at 5:30 p.m. in the school’s front office conference room.

Agenda items include:

• Further Discussion on 26-27 Tax Levy
• Possible Action to Rescind Initial 26-27 Budget and Tax Levy
• Possible Action to Adopt Updated 2026-27 Budget and Approve Updated 2026-27 Tax Levy

The full agenda is available here.

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

The Kenosha County Caregiver Coalition, together with the Aging and Disability Resource Center, is hosting the 5th annual appreciation luncheon for family caregivers. Caregivers who are Kenosha County residents and are caring
for an adult are invited to attend. This year’s them is Music Makes the Mood.

Family caregivers are often hidden behind the scenes. They are the spouses, parents, children, and neighbors who become the individuals navigating care and finding resources and supports for the person they are caring for. The luncheon aims to provide appreciation, relaxation, resources, and information to these caregivers.

The luncheon will be held Wednesday, Nov. 18. Speaker, Heidi Wojtak, music therapist, will present, How to Make the Most of the Power of Music, which focuses on understanding and experiencing the therapeutic effect of music and music therapy and how both can be used to enhance our health and wellness.

There is no cost for this event. Respite and lunch for the person you are caring for is available at no charge and must be
requested at time of registration. Reservations are required and must be received by Monday, November 2. Family
caregivers residing in Kenosha County may call the ADRC at 262-605-6646 for location information and to register.

Gathering Waters: Wisconsin’s Alliance for Land Trusts presented Seno K/RLT Conservancy with the 2026 Land Trust Volunteer of the Year Award for former Board President Mark Lesko on Oct. 10, 2026 in Burlington.

The award was presented in memoriam after Mark’s passing earlier in 2026.

Mark had been a cornerstone of land conservation in southeast Wisconsin since the late 1990s, when he began volunteering at what would eventually become Seno K/RLT Conservancy in Burlington. Over the course of nearly three decades, he grew from a hands-on volunteer — planting trees, managing woodland habitat, controlling invasive species, and helping remodel the barn that became Seno’s learning center — to the Board President, a role he filled with the same dedication that defined his early years.

“Mark Lesko was an exemplary role model, not only for volunteering in general, but for conservation specifically,” said Paul Sloth, Seno K/RLT Conservancy’s Executive Director. “Mark’s impact on our corner of southeast Wisconsin is immeasurable, and we were fortunate to have had someone like him to guide the next generation of conservation volunteers.”

Mark served as the de facto forest manager for Seno’s 127-acre Woodland Center property and the 84-acre Drumlin farm, coordinated habitat restoration volunteers, led annual tree plantings and prescribed burns, and expanded the organization’s beloved maple sugaring educational program.

What truly set Mark apart was his ability to motivate others. He grew Seno K/RLT’s board, inspired the next generation of conservation volunteers, and helped close landmark conservation easements — including a 242-acre project with the Erickson family and a 60-acre easement with the Riley family — that enhance southeast Wisconsin’s landscape.

Mark was the steady force behind much of what the organization has achieved. His guiding adage, “when we know better, we do better,” has shaped Seno’s culture of continuous improvement and created synergy amongst numerous Seno K/RLT volunteers, from board members to buckthorn killers.

“Mark embodied the spirit of land stewardship — humble, tireless, and rooted in a genuine love for the land, and is greatly missed by those who knew him,” said Mike Carlson, Executive Director at Gathering Waters. “He leaves a lasting legacy on land conservation in southeastern Wisconsin.”

About the Land Conservation Leadership Awards: The Land Conservation Leadership Awards recognize the outstanding achievements and contributions of individuals and organizations that devote their time and talents to protecting Wisconsin’s land, water, and wildlife. The awards are presented annually by Gathering Waters to conservation leaders.

At 6:32 p.m., Bristol Fire and Rescue units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to a crash at Highways 45 and V in Bristol.

Per dispatch: A motorcyclist has fallen.

UPDATE 6:39 p.m. — Per radio transmissions: Motorcyclist left the original scene but has been stopped again at Highway 45 and CJ.

A dense fog advisory has been issued for an area of Wisconsin including Kenosha County.

The advisory is set to be in effect until 10 a.m.

Visibility maybe a quarter of a mile or less in dense fog.

Other Wisconsin counties in the watch area are: Fond du Lac, Sheboygan, Dodge and Walworth counties.

We are doing some required site maintenance. While that is underway, westofthei.com may be down or not work properly. We apologize for any inconvenience.

Any breaking news will be posted at our Facebook page.

Thank for your patience.

UPDATE — Maintenance completed for now.

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. 

Voters in the Trevor-Wilmot Consolidated Grade School District will be able to vote on a operating referendum in the Nov. 3 election.

We sent a questionnaire to district officials. Following are the responses from Tracy Donich, district administrator.

The Westosha Central High School District board is schedule to hold a special board meeting Thursday, starting at 5 p.m. in the school’s upper commons.

Agenda items include:

• Motion to Adopt 2026-2027 Budget
• Certification of the 2026-27 Tax Levy: A. General Fund Operating Levy (10 Fund) – $10,706,112.00; B. Non-Referendum Debt Levy (38 Fund – Energy Exemption) – $434,868.00; C. Referendum Approved Debt Levy (39 Fund) – $1,947,869.00; D. Community Services Fund Operating Levy (80 Fund) – $250,000.00; E. Total Levy (All Funds) – $13,338,849.00; F. Motion to Certify the 2026-2027 Tax Levy at $13,338,849.00.

The full agenda is available here.

There will be a brand-new Halloween event in Twin Lakes this year.

Dena Prestininzi and Laura Kaskin have organized the Twin Lakes 1st Annual Community Halloween Light Parade on Friday, Oct. 30 at 7 p.m.

The parade route begins at Ace Hardware and ends at Lance Park.

The parade is free for all attendees.

Organizers say over 25 lit up parade units and are expected, along with candy distribution, glow sticks and special live entertainment.

Participation in the parade is free and open to both families and local businesses. Those interested in entering a float or walking entry in the parade can sign up by emailing dena@atproperties.com.

The Twin Lakes 1st Annual Community Halloween Light Parade is sponsored by Dena Prestininzi (@properties).

Note: The following is a paid announcement from the Trevor-Wilmot Consolidated Grade School District — DH

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 6:35 p.m., Wheatland Vol. Fire Department, Town of Randall Fire Department and Twin Lakes Rescue units and sheriff’s deputies are responding to a rep[ort of a crash in the 32600 block of Highway JI in Lilly Lake.

UPDATE about 6:37 p.m. — Unit arriving on scene reports two vehicles showing moderate damage.

UPDATE 6:46 p.m. — Wheatland command requests landing zone for medical transport helicopter to be set up by Randall FD

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 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 Pay Request #1 from Payne and Dolan for the 2026 Street Resurfacing Project.
• Discussion and possible action regarding Pay Request #1 from Bradford Contractors LLC for the 2026 Storm Sewer Improvement Project.
• Budget Workshop #3.

The full agenda and packet information is available here.