A mixed bag with the weather forecast for Friday, February 27 through Sunday, March, 1.

It begins with sunny skies and a high temperature around 58 degrees for Friday.

Weatherology Lead Forecaster Paul Trambley says the weather is topsy-turvy.

"After mild conditions, with some spring-like temperatures a strong cold front moves in Friday night which will set the stage for some light snow Saturday afternoon. An arctic high sets up on Saturday night and Sunday which will keep things chilly."

One to two inches of snow is expected for Saturday, February 28 during the day. It's expected to clear out by Saturday night, early evening, with a low temperature of 11 degrees.

Sunday, March 1 will be filled with sunshine and a high of 30 degrees. A snow dusting is in the forecast Sunday night with a low of 17 degrees.

Monday, March 2 remains chilly with a high of 35 degrees with sunny skies.

It's an annual event that creates opportunities for area students with scholarships. 

The Hustisford Fire Company's Chili Fundraiser is Sunday, March 1 at 9 a.m. Get there early, because they have run out before according to Jessica Hundt.

"The chili really flies out the door, people like it. It's a special event for us, with all of the funds going toward scholarships for students so they can continue with their education. We have always had a great response, they start lining up early."

It takes place at the Hustisford Fire Station, at 266 S. Lake Street in Hustisford. The delicious chili will be available for pickup for $30 (one gallon), $20 (half gallon) and $10 (one quart).

This event is in its 15th year, which started as a chili dinner, according to Hundt.

"It turned into such a big hit that we needed to make a lot more chili. When COVID hit, we had to make it into a pickup event. We had made sixteen nescos of chili one year and ran out."

A bowl of chili will hit the spot, with temperatures expected to fall to around 30 degrees all weekend.      

Assembly District 99 State Representative Barb Dittrich continues to be busy during the Legislative session.

Cell phones in school is one of the items receiving a lot of attention. 

"One thing you may have heard us talking about in the Legislature is getting these cell phones out of school," Dittrich told WTKM. "They are terribly addictive to kids. A lot of bad things can happen including human trafficking. It's breaking up their concentration in class."

Nothing has been approved at the time of this writing. 

Dittrich told WTKM that she serves on the Speaker’s Task Force on Protecting Kids, and they are looking into different types of technology related to children, which include apps.

A recent bill discusses internet crimes against children task forces, and how they are lacking the subpoena power to collect certain data.     

National FFA Week will wind down with ice cream and showing off their rides on Friday, February 27. The annual week-long celebration highlights the impact of school-based agricultural education with the Future Farmers of America.

"Kiss a Calf" was a new activity this year for FFA Week at Hartford Union High School. Students had the chance to collect clothes pins throughout the week and pin them to various pictures of school administrators and FFA leaders in front of the school. The picture with the most pins, wins and the person in the photo will pucker up for a funny moment. 

"It's a fun week," according to Bailey Gault, a proud member of the Hartford Union High School FFA Chapter. "I have been in FFA for three years and I love how FFA promotes agriculture and supporting it any way we can through the activities we do. FFA Week is so much fun and I feel like it's a good time of the year to get more people in the school involved with agriculture."

Dress-up days take center stage, with a different theme each day. The week started with pajamas, followed by camouflage and farm attire. By dressing up, students are eligible to receive FFA Bucks which they can cash in for ice cream.

"Friday is the day for ice cream," said Kim Yohn, Hartford Union High School Agricultural Science Teacher and one of four Hartford FFA Advisors. "That's not all, of course Friday is our traditional drive your tractor to school day. Students are excited about it, it's a huge piece of heritage for a lot of our students and they look forward to it."

Many students have brothers or sisters, parents or grandparents who took part in this annual tradition. The tractors will be lined up in a special section of the school parking lot, which is always reserved for this special day.

Friday is also recognized as Wear Blue Day to show your FFA pride.   

Photo by WTKM's Tom Jeffery. 

The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office investigated an Internet Crimes Against Children investigation after they received a tip from the National Center for Missing and Exploited Children.

As a result of the tip and investigation, 18-year-old Samuel Lathrop, of Fox Lake, was booked into the Dodge County Jail, and a Class D Felony is being requested to the Dodge County District Attorney’s Office.

The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office is leading this investigation and was assisted by the Wisconsin Department of Criminal Investigations Digital Forensics Unit.

Photo by the Dodge County Sheriff's Office.

The annual Operation Homeless Veterans event was held on February 13 and 14 at the Legion Post 294, at 231 Goodwin Avenue in Hartland. 

Squadron 294 Commander Mark Pape told WTKM about how it started.  

“We started this in 2020. We were looking for a new fundraiser for the Sons organization to work on. We decided to have a sleep out to bring awareness to the homeless veteran problem we have in this country." 

Members suggested sleeping out in June, but organizers believed a sleep out in February would attract some attention and “real awareness,” Pape said.

"If we held it in the summer, we think it would take away from what these people really go through,” according to Pape. “So we decided to sleep out in small tents and cardboard boxes in our parking lot at the post, no matter what the weather was like.”

The goal for the first sleep out in 2020 was $5,000, with fraternal financial services organization Modern Woodmen promising to match the first $2,500 raised by Squadron 294. The first annual event raised $20,000.

"We weren't sure exactly what we did, but we did something right with the first one and it was something we continued to build on,” Pape exclaimed.

All of the donations are kept in southeast Wisconsin, and donated to the Milwaukee Homeless Veteran Initiative and Women Veterans Independent Network.

They have raised over $380,000 since 2020.

They accepted cash donations as well as non-perishable food items and clothing.

It continues to be a success, as they shed some light on a sensitive and serious issue around the country.    

Photo by the Legion Post 294.

Hartford's new museum is taking shape.

Pop up events are being held the week of February 23 at the Jack Russell Memorial Library's Community Room. It's a chance to see some of the many items that will be on display at Museum 53027.

Gerry Schnorenberg is involved with the planning and told WTKM about the new addition to the city.

"It's all happening because of the generosity of the Hartford Historical Society and the Jack Russell History Room. We have formed a group that will bring a new museum to Hartford. We want to include more areas, along with Hartford. St. Lawrence, Town of Herman and Erin. We want to promote and preserve the uniquely rich history of Hartford and its surrounding communities."

You can check it out from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Wednesday, February 25 and Thursday, February 26.

Museum 53027 will be located in downtown Hartford, at 57 N. Main Street. They will begin to move in during the month of March of this year.  

It’s National FFA Week.

It’s an annual week-long celebration highlighting the impact of school-based agricultural education and the Future Farmers of America, or FFA.

June Strupp is an Agricultural Sciences Teacher at Hartford Union High School. She’s in her final year, before she retires. 

"This is my eleventh year at Hartford. I have to say the FFA is what has kept me teaching this long. I love the kids, I love the activities and to see their growth from their freshman year to their senior year is amazing. I'm really going to miss them."

All the best in retirement, and congratulations to June Strupp. She will be missed.

June worked in the Horicon School District for 20 years, and has enjoyed her time in Hartford.

Dress-up days are being held this week. Today students are encouraged to dress in hunter, camouflage and denim. By dressing up, they will earn FFA Bucks to cash in for ice cream on Friday.  

The Beaver Dam Fire Department responded to U.S. Highway 151 in the Town of Beaver Dam for a reported house fire on Sunday, February 22 around 2:34 a.m. 

Initial dispatch information indicated that the fire originated in the basement.

A MABAS box alarm was activated to the Working Still level, bringing additional resources from neighboring departments. Crews found a ranch-style home with smoke. A search of the home was conducted to ensure no one was home at the time.

Firefighters located a fire in the basement and were able to quickly bring it under control. A thorough search confirmed the building was empty. Crews remained on scene for two hours to conduct overhaul operations and ventilate smoke from the home.

No injuries were reported.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office is behind a new public safety initiative for Washington County, a Mobile Field Force.

Washington County Sheriff Marty Schulteis says multiple departments are involved.

"It's Washington County's first multi - jurisdictional crowd management unit. It's designed to bring it together, train personnel from the sheriff's office, and local police departments from across the county to respond quickly to both planned and unplanned events involving large crowds."

It’s also designed to protect both public safety and First Amendment rights.

Sheriff Schulteis told WTKM that over the last few years, law enforcement nationwide has witnessed how quickly crowd situations can evolve. Events that begin peacefully, can change rapidly.

The Mobile Field Force of Washington County is about preparation, professionalism and restraint—helping ensure that when people gather in Washington County, they can do so safely and lawfully.

Let the tapping begin.

It's that time of the year for homemade maple syrup, which starts with drilling maple trees and ends with the boiling process.

"There is a way to do it, and there is timing involved," according to Teddy Fryland of West Bend. "I got involved with it for my kids. It became a little tradition for us when they were younger and I decided to carry on with it. I like it."

The drilling creates a hole for the spout, which is inserted in the maple tree to draw sap. It's an angled hole which is drilled for the bags, or bins which are positioned outside of the tree.  

Sugar maples usually offer the highest sugar concentration.

"Some of the same trees are tapped every year," Fryland said. "The trees are built for this when the temperature is just right."

The tapping is underway at the time of this writing. It's all about the weather, and the temperatures need to cooperate with highs around the upper 30s to low 40s during the day followed by lows in the 20s.

The sap is then put through a reverse osmosis machine to take a percentage of the water from the sap before boiling. The sap will become thick, with the sugar carmelizing, according to the Wisconsin Maple Syrup Producers Association. The process can take several hours.

It doesn't get any sweeter than that!   

Cold temperatures are impacting southeast Wisconsin. 

Washington Ozaukee Public Health Department announced five locations where people can escape the elements during extreme weather in Washington County.

Senior Friends Inc.

730 Highland Ave., Hartford

Monday, Tuesday and Thursday 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Friday 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

Kewaskum Public Library

1225 Fond du Lac Ave., Kewaskum

Monday - Wednesday 10 a.m. - 8 p.m.

Thursday - Friday 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Slinger Community Library

220 Slinger Road, Slinger

Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 7 p.m. 

Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. - 12 p.m.

West Bend Community Memorial Library

630 Poplar Street, West Bend

Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Friday 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Saturday 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Kettle Moraine YMCA

1111 W. Washington Street, West Bend

Monday - Friday 5 a.m. - 9 p.m.

Saturday 6 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Sunday 6 a.m. - 4 p.m. 

A proclamation was presented in the City of Hartford, proclaiming Scott MacFarlan Day on February 20. 

Chief MacFarlan will officially step away, into retirement.  

He has been the chief of police since February 11, 2020. MacFarlan has served his entire career in law enforcement with the Hartford Police Department.

"I think thirty years is a good run," MacFarlan told WTKM. "I did enjoy my time here. I was able to wear a lot of different hats through the years, I did a lot of different things. It's been a pleasure to work for the department and the city."                                                        

MacFarlan started as a patrol officer. He was then promoted to detective, where he served for three years before stepping into an administrative lieutenant position.

MacFarlan told WTKM that his time with former Hartford Police Chief Dave Groves proved to be valuable with his development as a long-time member of their Senior Command Staff.

City of Hartford Mayor Dennis Regan told WTKM that the City of Hartford has been fortunate with the leadership of the police department.

"Hartford has been lucky, we have been blessed with a bunch of good police chiefs over the years. It says a lot about how they are able to develop strong leaders, while serving our community."                       

Hartford City Administrator Steve Volkert announced that Captain Rich Thickens of the Hartford Police Department was approved as the new City of Hartford Police Chief.    

Keep yourself warm and make sure to take care of your vehicle.

Randy Luck of Great Lakes Sales and Service in Nashotah offers a few tips.

"If your battery is approaching five years old and you haven't had it tested, that's a primary thing. Also, if you have any engine lights on like a check engine light or something like that, that does affect the running of the car and it's not going to run efficiently or start like it should in the cold weather."                                    

Cold temperatures can reduce battery output. Randy says that extreme cold affects everything from your battery to your tires.

"Tires do have the tendency of losing air pressure. For every ten degrees, it will drop a pound in the tire. So, when you start to get below zero your tires are going to lose air."

Keep your fuel tank at least half full to ensure your vehicle starts and runs smoothly.

Check your antifreeze, make sure your heater works and use winter-grade washer fluid.

A wintry mix, with snow showers which may turn into snow is possible for Friday, February 20. Rain is also expected in this system, according to Weatherology.

Rain is expected Thursday night, February 19 with snow and sleet. The low temperature is around 32 degrees.

Friday's high will be around 39 degrees with one to two inches of snow possible in the morning. Light snow expected in the early afternoon as well. Winds could gust as high as 40 mph.

Expect a low temperature around 25 degrees for Friday night.

Light snow is in the forecast for Saturday, February 21 with a high of 35 degrees.

Look for light snow on Sunday, February 22 with a high temperature of 29 degrees.

The Volunteer Center of Washington County continues to make a difference.

Executive Director Colleen Mayer told WTKM that they serve all of Washington County.

"As a volunteer center, we are constantly trying to recruit, engage and get people involved wherever you live and whatever stage of life you are in." 

Their Bowls of Goodness fundraiser is Thursday, February 19 at The Hub - Social Good Brews at 303 Water Street, in West Bend. Enjoy chili and soup from local nonprofits, a handcrafted bowl and support the Full Shelf Food Pantry.

It starts at 5:30 p.m. with taste tests of delicious chilis and soups that come from local partners, including Friends Inc., Rides & Reins, United Way of Washington County, Horizon Home Care & Hospice, Blue Lotus Center and Roots and Branches.

All visitors will receive a complimentary bowl created by a West Bend high school art student. 

Bring two nonperishable food items and receive one extra ticket to taste. Donations will be given to the Full Shelf Food Pantry, in West Bend.

All of the proceeds benefit the Volunteer Center of Washington County's programming.

Photo by the Volunteer Center of Washington County.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office would like to make residents aware of a fraudulent letter currently circulating that claims you are entitled to millions of dollars from a deceased individual who supposedly shares your last name.

It is a scam.

The document attempts to appear legitimate by using official-sounding titles, financial institutions, precise dollar amounts, and inheritance terminology. It claims that an overseas account worth over $75 million is waiting to be claimed and offers to split the money. It encourages you to respond privately by email and provide personal contact information.

Here are the red flags:

The sender claims they “found you” because of your last name.

You are promised a large percentage of the funds.

You are urged to respond privately and discreetly.

The transaction is described as “100% risk-free.”

The email address provided is generic and not tied to a legitimate financial institution.

If you receive this type of letter, according to the Washington County Sheriff's Office, do not respond and do not provide personal information.

Spring primary results in Dodge County included the Alderperson District 6 race in Watertown. Fred Smith was the top vote getter with 36 percent, and 60 votes. Todd Huhn received 33 percent of the vote, with 56 votes. Both candidates move on to the spring general election on April 7.

Duane Olbinski collected 53 percent of the vote in the race for Alderperson District 3 in Horicon. He finished with 59 total votes. Bryce Remy received 31 votes, or 28 percent. They were the top two and will move on to the April election.

The Town of Fox Lake Town Board Supervisor #4 race saw Paul Buteyn finish with 45 percent of the vote, or a total of 42 votes. Cal Van Beek was second with 34 percent of the vote, with 32 votes. 

367 ballots were cast, according to the Dodge County Clerk’s office.   

Washington County did not have a spring primary election. The deadline to submit in order to run for state or local offices this year was January 6.

The number of candidates did not exceed the number of positions.

In order to hold an election in the spring, there must be more than two interested candidates running for one position. All candidates will move on to the spring general election on April 7.

The spring primary election is Tuesday, February, 17.

In Washington County, there will not be a spring primary held. The deadline to submit in order to run for state or local offices in 2026 has passed. The deadline was January 6.

The number of candidates did not exceed the number of positions.

In order to hold an election in the spring, there must be more than two interested candidates running for one position. All candidates will move on to the spring general election on April 7.

Hartford City Clerk Shanna Kreilkamp told WTKM how to sign up to vote.

"You can register any time of the year at the municipal clerk's office, or right here at Hartford City Hall. All you have to do is bring along your proof of residence and fill out a voter registration application. You can register by mail."

Another option is myvote.wi.gov. 

In Dodge County, three races will be featured for the spring primary.

It includes Alderperson District 6 in the City of Watertown with three candidates. Fred Smith, Todd Huhn and Mike Hendrick will appear on the ballot.

The Alderperson District 3 race in Horicon also includes three candidates, including Carl Fausett, Duane Olbinski and Bryce Remy.

Candidates for the Town of Fox Lake Town Board Supervisor 4 include Paul Buteyn, Cal Van Beek and Angela Ewald.

Polls will close at 8 p.m.   

The Dodge County Fair is excited to announce that one of country music’s fastest-rising breakout artists, Vincent Mason, will perform live on Friday, August, 21. The concert is scheduled for 8 p.m. on the Moraine Park Main Stage, bringing a fresh, singer-songwriter edge to the Dodge County Fair.

While the concert is included with fair entry, fans are encouraged to plan ahead. Online gate admission tickets will be available for purchase starting in early July. 

"Vincent Mason represents the next generation of country music, blending incredible musicianship with hooks that stay with you," says the Dodge County Fair Board. "We are excited to offer our attendees the chance to see a headliner of this caliber as part of their fair experience."

Mason has already shared the road with superstars like Luke Bryan, Parker McCollum and Riley Green. 

Presidents' Day is Monday, February 16.

It's a federal holiday to honor Founding Father George Washington and U.S. presidents. Post offices are closed, along with banks and the stock market.

The federal holiday honoring Washington was originally implemented by an Act of Congress in 1879 for government offices in Washington and expanded in 1885 to include all federal offices. 

The West Bend Fire Department was dispatched at a working still level for a report of thick, dark smoke coming from a building in the area of Highway NN, in West Bend on Saturday, February 14.

Auto aid was provided from the Kewaskum Fire Department, Jackson Fire Department, and St. Lawrence Fire Department.

West Bend's Engine 3 arrived first and reported heavy smoke from units on the north side of the structure. Crews deployed handlines and initiated a fire attack. Additional units arrived on scene and assisted Engine 3 with a fire attack, access to the fire, ventilation, search of the structure and containing the fire.

The incident was upgraded to a Box Alarm, bringing additional resources from the Allenton Fire Department, Hartford Fire and Rescue and Newburg Fire Department.

The fire originated in a front office area and extended into the shop portion of the building. The fire was contained to the front section; however, the remainder of the building sustained significant heat and smoke damage. The cause remains under investigation but is believed to be accidental.

While crews were operating at the fire scene, the department was dispatched to a motor vehicle crash on Highway 45 north of Highway 33, which involved three subjects.  

Two patients sustained serious injuries, and extrication was required.

Due to the severity of injuries, Flight for Life was requested for one patient and was transported to Wauwatosa. The second patient was also transported to Wauwatosa by ambulance.

You can't help being inspired by 21-year-old speed skater Jordan Stolz.

The Kewaskum native is making a lot of noise in the Olympics, winning his first gold medal in the men's 1000 meters speedskating race at the Milan Cortina Olympic Games Wednesday, February 11. Stolz came from behind and seemed to glide to first place, with a smile. He finished in 1:06.28. He holds the world record in the event of 1:05.37.

Many people around southeast Wisconsin cheered when Jordan sailed through the line as a winner, including students and teachers in Kewaskum. School Superintendent Dr. Mark Bazata told WTKM about the reaction.

"Jordan Stolz represents the very best of what a small community can produce. Hard work, discipline and relentless determination and our students are incredibly excited to see someone from our community competing on the world's stage. Watching him bring home a gold medal and continue to compete at the highest level is an inspiration for all of us."

For Stolz, it was his first gold medal at this level, and hopefully it's just the beginning in these Olympic games. The young man from Kewaskum, who started skating as a kid on a pond in his backyard, will compete in three more events.

Students of all ages watched the 1000m race in Kewaskum, including high school students who gathered in the library during study hall and many stayed in during their lunch period so they wouldn't miss a moment.          

Iced on Main in downtown Hartford is Saturday, February 14 if you need an icebreaker for Valentine's Day. 

The Mill and the Hartford Business Improvement District are working together to present this great annual event. The BID serves as the main sponsor, while The Mill facilitates all of the ice sculptures.

The Hot Cocoa Crawl returns, with a friendly competition between area businesses for bragging rights on who has the tastiest hot cocoa, along with a sponsorship for this year’s Movies in the Park. The Mill will also present an opportunity for Iced on Main visitors to vote on this year’s Movies in the Park. They will be set up in the Link Building, in downtown Hartford.

Hartford BID President Jason Wix told WTKM News that the event will bring people to the downtown during a slow time of the year for retail sales.

"It continues to be a wonderful event to kind of bring crowds down in a much needed time, to draw business into the businesses, restaurants and bars as January and February can be very slow months in retail."

A scavenger hunt will also be held in downtown Hartford.

The annual Operation Homeless Veterans event is February 13 and 14 at the Legion Post 294, at 231 Goodwin Avenue in Hartland.

Squadron 294 Commander Mark Pape told WTKM about how it started seven years ago. 

“We started this in 2020. We were looking for a new fundraiser for the Sons organization to work on. We decided to have a sleep out to bring awareness to the homeless veteran problem we have in this country." 

Members suggested sleeping out in June, but organizers believed a sleep out in February would attract some attention and “real awareness,” Pape said.

"If we held it in the summer, we think it would take away from what these people really go through,” according to Pape. “So we decided to sleep out in small tents and cardboard boxes in our parking lot at the post, no matter what the weather was like.”

The goal for the first sleep out in 2020 was $5,000, with fraternal financial services organization Modern Woodmen promising to match the first $2,500 raised by Squadron 294. The first annual event raised $20,000.

"We weren't sure exactly what we did, but we did something right with the first one and it was something we continued to build on,” Pape exclaimed.

All of the donations are kept in southeast Wisconsin, and donated to the Milwaukee Homeless Veteran Initiative and Women Veterans Independent Network.

They have raised $380,000 since 2020.

They will be accepting cash donations as well as non-perishable food items and clothing.

It will be open to the public to visit and donate at the Legion Post 294 in Hartland.  

Photo by the Legion Post 294.

It was an opportunity to showcase their skills at the District 28 Leadership Development event the weekend of February 9.

FFA members stepped up to the plate to challenge themselves to speak in front of judges and sharpen their leadership skills.

There were a number of categories, including the Extemporaneous Public Speaking event where Beaver Dam FFA member Owen Hemling earned first place, with Hartford FFA member Abby Strupp coming in second.

Lomira FFA member Brock Breitlow came in first in the Discussion Meet, while Hartford's Abby Strupp was a second place finisher.

Breitlow once again earned first place in Prepared Public Speaking, with Bailey Gualt of Hartford FFA finishing an impressive second place.

Campbellsport FFA won the Middle School Quiz Bowl.

Slinger's Karley Westfall earned first place in Employment Skills, with Hartford's Josie Knapp coming in second place.

It was a great team effort for Hartford's FFA, with a first place finish in Parliamentary Procedure.   

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office Communication Center received multiple 911 calls reporting a two-vehicle crash on I-41 southbound, just south of Highway 28, on Wednesday, February 11 around 12 p.m. 

A subject was trapped in a vehicle and not responsive. Washington County deputies, along with Allenton Fire and EMS were dispatched. The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office had also received calls and dispatched their own deputies, along with Theresa Firefighters and Mayville EMS.

The driver was found to be deceased in the vehicle. The occupants of the other vehicle involved, a Dodge County Highway Department work truck towing a trailer, were uninjured.

The Dodge County Highway Department truck and trailer was southbound in the inside lane with its work lights activated. The vehicle slowed down to turn into an “Official Vehicles Only” median turn-around south of Highway 28. A car was behind the work truck and struck the trailer, before it crashed into the shoulder side guard rail.

The area was closed off from Highway 28 to Highway D for three hours.

The fatal accident is still under investigation at the time of this story.

The Washington County Sheriff’s Office was assisted by the Washington County Medical Examiner’s Office, Wisconsin State Patrol, Dodge County Sheriff’s Office and the Dodge County Emergency Response Team who assisted with the interstate closure and detour.

The City of West Bend Tourism Commission awarded five event promotion grants in the amount of $15,000 to support upcoming events that attract visitors and enhance economic impact in the community. The grant funds are intended to assist with promotional efforts for established or expanding events taking place between May and September. 

The Spring/Summer Event Promotion Grant recipients include:

• $5,000 to the Museum of Wisconsin Art for Art & Chalk Fest 2026, August 1–2
• $5,000 to Habitat for Humanity of Washington & Dodge Counties for West Bend Germanfest, Aug. 27-30
• $2,000 to West Bend Friends of Sculpture for Sculpture & Savor on September 5
• $1,000 to the Downtown West Bend Association and the Museum of Wisconsin Art for ArtWalk Premiere & Auction, running May 2–August 28
• $1,000 to The Bend Theater for the Music on Main Block Party on May 28
• $1,000 to West Bend Friends of Park & Recreation for the Regner Park Summer Concert Series, June 19–July 18

“The Tourism Commission is proud to support events that bring people into West Bend and highlight the unique experiences our community offers,” said Tourism Commission Chairman Mike Jentsch in a press release. “These events not only enrich quality of life for residents, they also play an important role in attracting visitors and supporting our local economy.”

One of the primary goals of the Tourism Commission’s grant program is to attract overnight visitors to West Bend hotels. 

Tourism Commission members include Mike Jentsch, Parks, Recreation and Forestry Director and Chairman; Aldermen Rhett Engelking and Matthew Sternig; Kirk Emerich, Business Representative and Vice Chairman; and Linda Cherney, Industry Representative.

Reports of road salt shortages have made their way around Wisconsin, due to the early start of the winter season and high demand from consistent snow events. 

The City of Hartford and southeast Wisconsin have been dealing with a noticeable salt shortage, especially during periods of heavy winter weather, creating challenges for both local governments and residents.

The shortage has been driven by a combination of frequent snow and ice events, increased demand for road salt to keep streets safe, and supply chain constraints that make it harder for municipalities to replenish their stockpiles quickly, according to the City of Hartford.

As salt supplies run low, cities and counties are forced to conserve what they have, sometimes prioritizing major roads and highways over residential streets. This can lead to slick driving conditions, delays in snow removal, and increased safety concerns for commuters and pedestrians. 

In Hartford, they are trying to conserve salt as well.

Photo by the City of Hartford.

The Dodge County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a serious injury crash. It happened on Tuesday, February 10 on County Highway A and County Highway B in Beaver Dam around 1:50 p.m.  

Dodge County deputies responded to a report of a three-vehicle crash. A car had been traveling westbound, and failed to yield the right of way to a semi tractor-trailer that was traveling southbound on County Highway A. The semi struck the car. A third vehicle involved was an F-150 that was traveling northbound on County Highway A and was struck by the car.

The car was driven by a 21-year-old woman from Waupun.  The passenger was identified as a 53-year-old woman from Beaver Dam. Both of them sustained serious injuries.

The driver of the semi was not injured in the crash. He was identified as a 24-year-old man from Whitewater.  

The F-150 had five people inside, all of which were not injured. The driver was identified as a 42-year-old man from Port Washington. Three children were also inside.

The sheriff’s office was assisted by the Beaver Dam Fire Department - Paramedics, Dodge County Emergency Response Team, Dodge County Highway Department, Flight for Life and the Beaver Dam Police Department.

The accident remains under investigation by the Dodge County Sheriff’s Office.

Police officers and firefighters from the City of Hartford responded to a car fire on Tuesday, February 10 at 12:44 p.m.

Firefighters extinguished the fire, which started under the hood of a parked car at the entrance of Salon Effervescence, at 55 E. Sumner Street. Flames were spotted shooting out from under the hood of the car.

Hartford Police Officers handled traffic control, and no injuries were reported.     

Photo by WTKM's Tom Jeffery.

Sometimes you find a place that makes you smile when you walk in. No matter what kind of day you're having. Faith & Giggles Gift Shop was one of those places. Unfortunately, it's time to say goodbye.    

Downtown Hartford's Faith & Giggles Gift Shop was open for the final time on Thursday, January 29. Owners Wendy Smith and Jason Wix handed over the keys and shut off the lights for the last time on Monday, February 9. 

It's been 14 years for this wonderful business. 14 years of inspiration. 14 years of smiling and laughing. 

"When we opened, that's what I wanted to do," Wendy said. She opened Faith & Giggles with her husband Jason in September of 2011. "I wanted people to come in and be happy. I wanted them to laugh."

That's exactly what happened. 

This unique gift shop offered inspirational gifts, cards and books. 

Wendy and Jason are also advocates for people and animals in need. They are relentless in their passion to give back and having an impact on our community. The world is a better place with Wendy and Jason.

They were recognized in 2017 with the Dynamic Duo award from the Volunteer Center of Washington County. They raised over $1,700 during a fundraiser for the Franciscan Peacemakers, on their final Virtual Bingo Bash on Facebook. 

The Franciscan Peacemakers connect women to safe housing, meaningful work and a healing network of support. They work for an end to human sex trafficking through service and advocacy, which is near and dear to Wendy's heart with her work with the Washington County Anti-Trafficking Advocates. The 501 (c) (3) nonprofit is dedicated to educating and combating sex trafficking through prevention. It was founded by Wendy and Jason, offering free presentations on recognizing grooming tactics, online safety, and protecting children. 

"I don't know what's ahead," Wendy said. "I believe we are blessed and there are great things in the future."

Thank you Wendy and Jason.  

School Bus Driver Appreciation Week runs from Monday, February 9 through Friday, February 13 in Wisconsin.

Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers released a proclamation, making it official. 

"WHEREAS; this week, the state of Wisconsin joins all Wisconsinites in thanking school bus drivers, managers, and operators across the state for the critically important work they do to ensure Wisconsin’s students have a safe and reliable way to get to and from school every day; therefore I, Tony Evers, Governor of the State of Wisconsin, do hereby proclaim February 9 through 13 2026 as Wisconsin School Bus Driver Appreciation Week."

It's an opportunity to recognize many area bus drivers and the work they do everyday. 

"Sometimes, they are a forgotten group," according to Slinger Police Chief Kyle Arendt. "They consistently show up every day and get our kids to school. It's an important job and safety is their top priority."

There are more than 12,000 school bus drivers navigating the roads in Wisconsin, covering an average of 144 million miles annually. 

"It's a trusting, familiar face for the kids and parents," said Hartford Police Chief Scott MacFarlan.

Thank you to every reliable school bus driver on the road.   

Washington County was hit by major flooding in August, of last year which impacted neighborhoods, roads and infrastructure. Especially hard hit were Germantown, West Bend, Richfield and Farmington, where the Indian Lore Bridge collapsed.

Washington County provided funds to the Town of Farmington, so repairs on the Indian Lore Bridge could begin. And just five months after the flooding, the bridge is now open. The public-private partnerships and neighbors helping neighbors was a big part of it.

County Supervisor and Town of Farmington Chair Doug Neumann said in a press release, “This is an incredible accomplishment, many thought it wasn't possible. A few small setbacks, but we got it done in record time.”

He cited the partnership with Washington County as a key aspect to providing much needed emergency funding. The Town of Farmington continues to work with FEMA for reimbursement through a county-wide appeals process after the initial funding request was denied. The bridge project cost $450,000.

It's open for travel, but some minor finishing work will take place in early spring to replace asphalt. 

Photo by Washington County.

There is more information regarding a fatal accident in Cedarburg. It occurred on Thursday, February 5.

A man from West Bend, who has been identified as 57-year-old Darren Hess, was pronounced deceased after the accident.  

The Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office responded to the two-vehicle crash on County Highway I, north of Cedar Creek Road around 1:18 p.m. A pickup truck struck a school bus head-on.

It was determined that a pickup truck was traveling southbound on County Highway I when it began to drift over the centerline. It crossed into the northbound lane and struck the school bus head-on.

The school bus was occupied only by the driver; no students were on the bus at the time. The bus was driven by a 71-year-old man from Saukville. He sustained minor injuries.

The driver of the pickup truck, Darren Hess, was pinned inside the vehicle and required extrication. He was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Iced on Main in downtown Hartford is Saturday, February 14 if you need an icebreaker for Valentine's Day. 

The Mill and the Hartford Business Improvement District are working together to present this great annual event. The BID serves as the main sponsor, while The Mill facilitates all of the ice sculptures.

The Hot Cocoa Crawl returns, with a friendly competition between area businesses for bragging rights on who has the tastiest hot cocoa, along with a sponsorship for this year’s Movies in the Park. The Mill will also present an opportunity for Iced on Main visitors to vote on this year’s Movies in the Park. They will be set up in the Link Building, in downtown Hartford.

Hartford BID President Jason Wix told WTKM News that the event will bring people to the downtown during a slow time of the year for retail sales.

"It continues to be a wonderful event to kind of bring crowds down in a much needed time, to draw business into the businesses, restaurants and bars as January and February can be very slow months in retail."

A scavenger hunt will also be held in downtown Hartford.

During the winter season, indoor farm work can expose workers to hazardous gas, fumes and dust.

Ventilation is important.

Kate McCoy is the manager for Occupational Health and Safety Surveillance Program for the Department of Health Services and says there can be some hazards this time of the year.

"Any time you are doing inside work, there can be certain types of hazards depending on what you are doing. Sometimes, certain types of work can stir up dust that are in that environment, or are chemicals being used indoors."                                       

Improving air quality with winter ventilation removes excess moisture, ammonia, and dust which can prevent illnesses in livestock.

A man from West Bend was pronounced deceased after an accident in Cedarburg on Thursday, February 5. 

The Ozaukee County Sheriff’s Office responded to a two-vehicle crash on County Highway I, north of Cedar Creek Road around 1:18 p.m. A pickup truck struck a school bus head-on.

It was determined that a pickup truck was traveling southbound on County Highway I when it began to drift over the centerline. It crossed into the northbound lane and struck the school bus head-on. Both vehicles came to rest in the northbound lane.

The school bus was occupied only by the driver; no students were on the bus at the time of the crash. The bus was driven by a 71-year-old man from Saukville. He sustained minor injuries and was transported to a local hospital.

The pickup was driven by a 57-year-old man from West Bend. The driver was pinned inside the vehicle and required extrication. Despite lifesaving efforts, the driver was pronounced deceased at the scene.

Both lanes between Pleasant Valley Road and Cedar Creek Road were closed for crash reconstruction.

Cold temperatures have had an impact this winter season.

Keep an eye on your pets - dogs are susceptible to frostbite, especially to their paws, ear tips, nose and tail when exposed to chilly temperatures.

VCA Saukville Animal Hospital Technical Supervisor Lindsey Schulz says antifreeze can be harmful to your pet.

"It's a big thing during winter, people are using antifreeze. They drain it and it is put on the ground and the dog ingests it that way. It's a big thing to be cautious about."               

Lindsey Schulz told WTKM to clean off their paws after spending time outside. 

"Wiping off their paws to make sure they don't have salt in their paws is a great thing to do. Some dogs will allow their owners to put boots on their feet, which is a great idea. Keep that exposure outside to a minimum."

Clinical signs associated with frostbite in dogs include discoloration, coldness, swelling and blisters.  

Never leave dogs in the car and keep them away from frozen water.

A Scam Alert was released by the West Bend Police Department.

Recently, a Police Department cell phone received a message claiming to be from the Wisconsin Department of Transportation about an unpaid toll.

While the message may look official, it’s just one example of a larger pattern of similar scams. Scammers often try to appeal to your good nature with urgent threats. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation will never send threatening notices like this, and the real Wisconsin Department of Transportation will never ask for immediate payment online.

The State of Wisconsin does not operate a tollway system. That’s handled in Illinois, and they won’t contact you through a text.

Students from Hartford Union High School showcased their technical expertise at the SkillsUSA Regional competition, held at the University of Wisconsin-Platteville. Competing against students from across the region, HUHS students earned several top-tier finishes, including two first-place victories.

The following students earned medals in their categories:

First Place:

TeamWorks: Nate Weber, Charlie Kraus, and Brook Jelen

Technical Drafting: Drew Kraus

Second Place:

Promotional Bulletin Board: Paige Teske, Lydia Gault, and Megan Bingen

Electrical Wiring: Caleb Hilmer-Amundson

Medical Math: Olivia Ghorai

Medical Terminology: Liana Smithyman

These competitions serve as a platform for students to demonstrate leadership, teamwork, and technical proficiency in high-demand career fields.

SkillsUSA is a nonprofit partnership of education and industry which serves more than 330,000 member students and instructors annually. The organization provides educational programs, events and competitions that support career and technical education in the classrooms.

Photo by Hartford Union High School.

It was all about new beginnings in 2025 in the City of Hartford.

Especially for housing developments. The City of Hartford saw the beginning of four new subdivisions, according to City Administrator Steve Volkert. 

"That is an unprecedented development year for us. You will see a lot more of those developments become houses in the coming year. Last year, we had around a dozen new homes that were started or completed in those four subdivisions. This year, you will probably see fifty or sixty homes pop up." 

Volkert told WTKM that the housing demand is high in Washington County. 

"They are building so many homes, with no buyers already in place. The need is so great, that a lot of these homes are being bought before they even finish. That's great to see."   

Around 10 years ago, you didn’t see a lot of spec homes – which are homes built without the buyer already in mind. These days, many of these homes are bought before they finish building.  

The annual Operation Homeless Veterans event is February 13 and 14 at the Legion Post 294, at 231 Goodwin Avenue in Hartland.

Squadron 294 Commander Mark Pape told WTKM about how it started seven years ago. 

“We started this in 2020. We were looking for a new fundraiser for the Sons organization to work on. We decided to have a sleep out to bring awareness to the homeless veteran problem we have in this country." 

Members suggested sleeping out in June, but organizers believed a sleep out in February would attract some attention and “real awareness,” Pape said.

"If we held it in the summer, we think it would take away from what these people really go through,” according to Pape. “So we decided to sleep out in small tents and cardboard boxes in our parking lot at the post, no matter what the weather was like.”

The goal for the first sleep out in 2020 was $5,000, with fraternal financial services organization Modern Woodmen promising to match the first $2,500 raised by Squadron 294. The first annual event raised $20,000.

"We weren't sure exactly what we did, but we did something right with the first one and it was something we continued to build on,” Pape exclaimed.

All of the donations are kept in southeast Wisconsin, and donated to the Milwaukee Homeless Veteran Initiative and Women Veterans Independent Network.

They have raised $380,000 since 2020.

They will be accepting cash donations as well as non-perishable food items and clothing.

It will be open to the public to visit and donate at the Legion Post 294 in Hartland.  

Photo by the Legion Post 294.

A proclamation was presented in the City of Hartford, proclaiming Scott MacFarlan Day on February 20 in the City of Hartford.

Chief MacFarlan will officially step away, into retirement.  

He has been the chief of police since February 11, 2020. MacFarlan has served his entire career in law enforcement with the Hartford Police Department.

"I think thirty years is a good run," MacFarlan told WTKM. "I did enjoy my time here. I was able to wear a lot of different hats through the years, I did a lot of different things. It's been a pleasure to work for the department and the city."                                                        

MacFarlan started as a patrol officer. He was then promoted to detective, where he served for three years before stepping into an administrative lieutenant position.

MacFarlan told WTKM that his time with former Hartford Police Chief Dave Groves proved to be valuable with his development as a long-time member of their Senior Command Staff.

City of Hartford Mayor Dennis Regan told WTKM that the City of Hartford has been fortunate with the leadership of the police department.

"Hartford has been lucky, we have been blessed with a bunch of good police chiefs over the years. It says a lot about how they are able to develop strong leaders, while serving our community."                       

Hartford City Administrator Steve Volkert announced that Captain Rich Thickens of the Hartford Police Department was approved as the new City of Hartford Police Chief.    

The Campbellsport Police Department has issued a report of a scam.  

A resident received a suspicious phone call, with the person on the other end saying they were from the "Campbellsport Police Department". The caller ID displayed "Potential Spam" with a phone number of 533-5319. The resident reported that the caller was extremely pushy during the conversation.

The Campbellsport Police department will always identify themselves during any call. They will clearly state the purpose of the call before requesting any information.

If you suspect a scam, please terminate the call and contact the Campbellsport Police Department directly to verify whether the call was genuinely from the Campbellsport Police Department.

An update has become available from the Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary, of West Bend, regarding a lawsuit.  

They filed a motion for summary judgment in Washington County Circuit Court. In this motion, Shalom asked the court to dismiss a lawsuit against the Town of Farmington and Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary. 

Late last year through the legal process, the Town amended its Zoning Code. The zoning code amendment makes it clear that they are allowed to operate as a zoo.

Shalom asked the court to dismiss this lawsuit once and for all. That decision by a Washington County Circuit Court Judge may happen sometime between now and the end of March. 

Monday, February 2 there was a hearing regarding counterclaims. 

The hearing was held on Monday, February 2 at the Washington County Courthouse with Judge Ryan Hetzel presiding. The motion was denied to dismiss the counterclaim. According to the Shalom Wildlife Sanctuary, this means the case will now proceed to discovery.

"There is still a very long road ahead in this case, but this was a positive first step," David and Lana Fechter said in an update. "We remain committed to stand up for our animals, our staff and the families and children who find joy at Shalom Zoo." 

Their next goal is to get the court to grant their motion for summary judgment to dismiss the initial lawsuit, which sought to invalidate their 2025 Conditional Use Permit. Now that the Town of Farmington has amended its zoning code to allow for zoological activities, their zoo operations are permitted. That motion will be heard on April 22.

The West Bend School District is planning on holding community meetings in order to discuss what's best for their high school students—now and in the future. They are looking for the community's input.

Since 1970, their community has been home to East and West High Schools on a shared campus, currently serving 1,818 students. Enrollment projections show their student population may decline to around 1,500 by 2029-2030, and possibly 1,200 by 2037-2038, according to a press release. 

The West Bend School District is looking for various perspectives on whether the school district has one or two high schools in the future. Here's how you can share your thoughts:

• Community meetings will be held on:

  • Monday, February 2, 2026 at 6 p.m.

  • Wednesday, February 11, 2026 at 6 p.m.

• Both meetings are in the West High School cafeteria. Enter the building on the west side in the fieldhouse doors. 

• Attend a focus group by invitation. Focus groups will be utilized for students at the High Schools as well as Badger.

• Complete an online survey that will be released on February 2, by emails, social media, and district and school newsletters.

Groundhog Day is Monday, February 2. That means we hear from prognosticators regarding how much more of winter will hang around.

Punxsutawney Phil predicted six more weeks of wintry weather, a forecast sure to disappoint many after what’s already been a long, cold season across large parts of the United States, according to the Associated Press.

Phil's prediction and announcement arrived after he had seen his shadow and was translated by his handlers in the Punxsutawney Groundhog Club at Gobbler’s Knob, in western Pennsylvania.

On the other hand, Jimmy the Groundhog predicted an early spring in Sun Prairie, Wisconsin during the 78th Annual Groundhog Day celebration. 

Iced on Main in downtown Hartford is Saturday, February 14 if you need an icebreaker for Valentine's Day. 

The Mill and the Hartford Business Improvement District are working together to present this great annual event. The BID serves as the main sponsor, while The Mill facilitates all of the ice sculptures.

The Hot Cocoa Crawl returns, with a friendly competition between area businesses for bragging rights on who has the tastiest hot cocoa, along with a sponsorship for this year’s Movies in the Park. The Mill will also present an opportunity for Iced on Main visitors to vote on this year’s Movies in the Park. They will be set up in the Link Building, in downtown Hartford.

Hartford BID President Jason Wix told WTKM News that the event will bring people to the downtown during a slow time of the year for retail sales.

"It continues to be a wonderful event to kind of bring crowds down in a much needed time, to draw business into the businesses, restaurants and bars as January and February can be very slow months in retail."

A scavenger hunt will also be held in downtown Hartford.

There is more information regarding an accident in Oak Grove. It happened on Thursday, January 29 at 12:50 p.m.

Dodge County Sheriff’s Deputies responded to an injury crash involving a car and a tractor-trailer at the intersection of County Highway S, at Main Street.

The car was driven by a 46-year-old woman of Beaver Dam, and was headed southbound. The vehicle failed to yield the right of way from the stop sign at the intersection and was struck by a tractor pulling a loaded trailer. The driver of the car sustained life-threatening injuries and was flown to a Hospital by Flight for Life. The driver of the semi was not injured.

The driver of the car was identified as Keasha Altman and died at the hospital, as a result of her injuries sustained in the crash. The driver of the tractor was identified as Mark McWilliams.