11-2-13 love triangle fight

An apparent love triangle has led to a Madison woman being cited for disorderly conduct after getting into a fight at the Fond du Lac Walmart store.  A witness told police a woman jumped out of her vehicle and followed another woman into the Walmart lobby where they exchanged blows.  Both women had apparently been dating the same man.  The Madison woman said when she saw the other woman in the Walmart parking lot she “lost it.”    Police say the man drove off  in the vehicle and is wanted on  two outstanding warrants.

11-2-13 waupun car fire

Waupun fire officials aren’t sure what started a fire that destroyed a car this week.  Assistant Fire Chief Wayne Verhage says firefighters were called to the Walgreens parking lot to a report of a car on fire.  Verhage says the driver had left the car idling in front of Walgreens while he ran into the store to grab a few items.  When firefighters arrived the car was fully involved.  Verhage says a passerby rescued a pet dog from the burning vehicle.  Nobody was injured.

11-1-13 poultry ban lifted

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Japan has lifted a ban on Wisconsin poultry products instituted after birds in Jefferson County showed signs of exposure to avian flu.  A routine inspection done four months ago found some birds had antibodies to low-pathogen avian influenza, indicating possible exposure to the disease.

But Wisconsin State Veterinarian Dr. Paul McGraw says follow-up tests showed no signs of the virus and there was never a threat to public health.   "This particular virus in Wisconsin was found in an outdoor flock probably exposed to some wild ducks or geese sometime in the spring,"  McGraw told WFDL news.  "When we tested the birds, they were never sick, never showed any clinical signs.  We never found the virus."

The Wisconsin Department of Trade, Agriculture and Consumer Protection says Japan ended its ban Wednesday and will accept soups, broth and other poultry products made from birds killed after that date.  DATCP spokeswoman Raechelle Cline says the lifting of Japan's ban is important because it could help convince other nations, such as China, to reopen their borders.

11-1-13 kenosha casino

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Republican and Democratic lawmakers are joining together with laborers and others to urge Gov. Scott Walker to approve the Menominee tribe's plan for a new casino in Kenosha.

Supporters of the project gathered Thursday at a state Capitol news conference to tout the promised creation of thousands of temporary and permanent jobs at the project. The tribe is partnering with Hard Rock International.  Walker is deciding whether to allow the casino or side with the Potawatomi and Ho-Chunk tribes which are urging him to reject it. Walker says he could make his decision as early as next week.  Assembly Democratic Minority Leader Peter Barca of Kenosha says he believes the project can be a win-win for Wisconsin.

11-1-13 budget battle-ryan

WASHINGTON (AP) — Republican Congressman Paul Ryan of Wisconsin is suggesting a collaborative approach as he starts formal talks with Democrats to reach a budget agreement by mid-December.

The 2012 Republican vice presidential nominee says the bipartisan group of congressional negotiators has a chance to take the first steps toward fixing problems like debt and the long-term future of entitlement programs.  Ryan's work on the panel could offer clues about his political future, whether he's looking to climb the House leadership ranks or pursue a 2016 presidential campaign. The congressman is helping preside over the panel at a time of deep rifts within the Republican Party between tea party conservatives and more business-friendly, establishment Republicans.

11-1-13 new voter photo id bill is dead on arrival

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The latest proposal to require Wisconsin voters to show photo identification at the polls appears to be dead on arrival.  A pair of Republican state Assembly members circulated the bill Thursday, with the hopes of holding a hearing next week and taking a vote later in November.  But Republican Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald says he does not plan to take the bill up in the Senate. Fitzgerald says it makes more sense to see what happens with lawsuits currently pending in both state appeals and federal court.  He says the current photo ID law may withstand the court challenges, and if it doesn't the Legislature could then make changes to address any ruling.  Fitzgerald says passing a new law now will just result in more lawsuits.

11-1-13 governor's race

Political observers say a recent statewide poll that shows Governor Scott Walker and Democratic challenger Mary Burke in a statistical dead heat a year out from the election shows how politically divided the state is.   The Marquette Law School poll showed that in a head to head race Walker
had 47 percent to Burke’s 45 percent.  WisPolitics.com editor J.R. Ross says no matter how accurate the poll numbers are today…both sides agree the election next fall will be a close one.  "Even when I talk to Republicans who are extremely confident governor Walker will win next year, they're pretty sure its going to be a 51 or 52 percent type win, not a 56 or 57 percent one,"  Ross said.  "They're projecting a very close race even though they're very confident he is going to win."  Ross made the comments on AM 1170 WFDL's Between the Lines program.

11-1-13 wolf hunt harvest ahead of last year's pace

State DNR officials say the wolf harvest is ahead of last year’s pace.  DNR wildlife manager, Tom Hauge, tells AM 1170 WFDL's Between the Lines program at this point it appears the harvest goal of 251 wolves will be met before the season is scheduled to end at the end of February.  "We're on a quicker pace this year definitely compared to 2012,"  Hauge said.  "With this being our second year we really don't have a quote "normal" and we're kind of learning."   So far three wolf hunt zones have closed. 

11-1-13 pool vandals

The Fond du lac County Sheriff’s Office is investigating after vandals dumped a concrete statue in a residential backyard swimming pool..possibly as a homecoming prank.   According  to a sheriff’s office report on October 22^nd someone entered the fenced in pool area at W5143 Golf Vu Drive, and dumped the statue into the pool, tearing the pool cover, valued at $1000.   The homeowner said it would cost more than $600 to have a crane retrieve the statue from the pool.

10-31-13 fdl car fire

Nobody  was injured in a fire that destroyed a car in Fond du Lac.  Firefighters were called to the scene on Brooke St. near Western Avenue shortly after 8am Thursday.  Fire Chief Pete O’Leary tells WFDL news the car was fully engulfed in flames when firefighters arrived on the scene.  O’Leary says the car was parked just a couple feet away from an apartment complex and crews worked quickly to prevent the fire from spreading to the building.

10-31-13 fdl school superintendent says recent incidents at fdl high school are "rare"

The Fond du lac School superintendent says Fond du lac High School is a safe environment for kids and says a couple of recent incidents at the school are isolated incidents.    For the first time in school history a Fond du lac police officer had to use a taser on a combative student at the school,  and last week a 17 year old student was charged in Fond du lac County Circuit Court after

allegedly striking a female student at the school causing her to lose consciousness.  "In any school regardless of size you have challenges from time to time,"  Superintendent Jim Sebert told WFDL news.  "Those are a couple of challenges that you mentioned that we've had recently.  That doesn't detract from all the great things that are going on at Fond du Lac High School."   Sebert says he supports the police department’s efforts to keep students and staff safe, including for the first time deploying a taser on a student  who attacked an officer at the school last month.   Sebert says the high school is a very safe environment.  "You don't let situations such as the ones we're talking about define the overall school or define the overall district,"  Sebert said.  "They are bumps we need to address, we need to learn from them, we need to use them to teach us and to help us to prevent them in the future.  But then we also have to celebrate all the great things that go on on a daily basis not only at Fond du Lac High School but throughout the Fond du Lac School District."

10-31-13 school safety forum-nfdl

The North Fond du Lac school superintendent says attendance at a recent school safety program may be an indication that the district is doing something right when it comes to school and student safety.  Superintendent Aaron Sadoff says in addition to school officials, only two members from the general public attended the District’s 2^nd annual School Safety Overview forum.  "That just sends a big message to us that people feel we're on the right track,"  Sadoff told AM 1170 WFDL's Between the Lines program.  In the wake of the Newtown shooting and other acts of school violence around the country, Sadoff says he is confident the North Fond du Lac School District preparations and planning are focused in the correct  direction.  "We would really like to say hey, we're here doing our best to have policies, have procedures, work with county sheriffs, work with the PD, work with health and human services,  work with the county and everything we can to keep our kids safe." 

10-31-13 concealed weapons-schools

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A proposal to allow off-duty, retired and out-of-state police officers to carry concealed weapons at Wisconsin schools won't be getting a vote in the state Assembly.  Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos's spokeswoman Kit Beyer said Wednesday that the measure will not be voted on. Beyer did not immediately respond to an email asking why.  The proposal is sponsored by Republican Rep. Joel Kleefisch, the chairman of the Assembly's Criminal Justice Committee.  Kleefisch wants to broaden his bill to allow anyone with a concealed weapon permit to carry guns in school buildings and on school grounds. Kleefisch planned to put that idea to a committee vote Thursday, but says he didn't expect that amendment to be adopted.

10-31-13 camp counselor convicted of sexually assaulting boys at fdl county ymca camp

A camp counselor accused of sexually assaulting boys at a Campbellsport area YMCA camp has reached a plea agreement avoiding a trial.  Nineteen year old Troy Orthmann of South Milwaukee pleaded no contest to five counts of sexual assault of a child.  A sentencing hearing is scheduled for January 29^th.  According to a criminal complaint Orthmann performed sex acts on boys and fondled them, including a 12 year old boy at Camp Matawa in New Fane.

10-31-13 agnesian expansion

A major expansion project is starting this week at Agnesian HealthCare’s Camelot Drive facility off the 151 Bypass in Fond du lac.  Agnesian spokesperson Shelly Haberman says work is starting this week to expand the existing facility by nearly 50,000 square feet.  The project will involve consolidating all Fond du Lac-based podiatry services to one location, expand space for Sports, Spine and Work Center and orthopdedic care, centralize pain medicine services including relocation of neurology and physiatry services from Division Street and add a prescription center and wound care clinic, including a hyperbaric chamber.  Haberman says starting next spring work will begin on a second, approximately 50,000 square foot facility.  Haberman says the new facility will house the Agnesian Health Shoppe and home oxygen services as well as the Fond du Lac Dialysis Center.  Completion of both facilities, set at $21 million, is anticipated by next year at this time.

10-31-13 animal carcasses dumped

MANITOWOC, Wis. (AP) — Wisconsin officials report a gruesome discovery in the Town of Franklin — more than a dozen skinned animal carcasses found along a road.  Department of Natural Resources officials say this is something they see more of during the fall and the problem is likely to continue until about a month after the gun deer season ends.  Conservation Warden Robert Stroess says animals like raccoons are hunted or trapped for their fur, skinned and discarded. The practice doesn't break any hunting laws, but whoever dumped the carcasses could face a fine for littering.  Stroess says officials found 14 raccoons, an opossum and a fox in one spot and five more raccoons in another area.

10-31-13 collective bargaining-wi teachers sue

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A group of teachers are demanding a judge re-instate portions of Gov. Scott Walker's contentious collective bargaining restrictions.  Dane County Circuit Judge Juan Colas last year found the restrictions as they apply to local public unions unconstitutional.  Last week Colas found the Wisconsin Labor Employment Relations Commission in contempt for continuing to prepare certification elections for hundreds of local unions next month despite his ruling.  Five teachers filed a lawsuit Tuesday in Waukesha County Circuit Court demanding a judge order the commissioners to proceed with the elections. They argued Colas' ruling isn't binding statewide and they have a right to vote.  The 4th District Court of Appeals is reviewing the contempt finding. WERC attorney Peter Davis says if that court reverses the ruling the commission could hold the elections.

10-31-13 fdl tavern burglary suspects arrested

A Fond du Lac County Sheriff’s Office night shift surveillance operation is credited with the arrest of two suspects in connection with a recent tavern burglary spree.  Sheriff’s Lieutenant Cameron McGee says two Fond du Lac men were arrested for the string of burglaries this month in both the city of Fond du Lac and county.  McGee says the sheriff’s office cleared five burglaries to taverns and other businesses including Touch the Earth landscaping.  Several search warrants were executed in the city of Fond du Lac.  McGee says evidence and stolen property has been recovered and the investigation is ongoing.

10-31-13 fdl woman wins house raffle

A Fond du Lac woman is the winner of this year’s Fond du Lac Samaritan Health  Clinic raffle house.  Sharon Vandeslunt is the winner of a $269,000 home or $134,500 in cash.  Her name was pulled during the raffle drawing this afternoon.  The 2200 square foot home is located on Hideaway Lane…off Highway 23 west of Fond du lac.   Nearly 5400 tickets were sold for this year’s drawing.  The house raffle was started 18 years ago to help provide medical and emergency dental services to needy area residents.

Other prize winners include:
·       2nd prize - Children’s Playhouse, donated by Burg Homes & Design (value at $7,500): Dan Schnieder and Eiko Marrese, Fond du Lac
·       3rd prize - $1,000 in cash: Donna Zuehlke, St. Cloud
·       4th prize - $1,000 in cash: Glen and Karen Mikelson, Fond du Lac
·       5^th prize - $1,000 in cash: Darrin Albrecht, Oakfield
·       6^th prize - $1,000 gift certificate donated by Partners by Design & Fine Furnishings, Inc.: Donna Whealon, Fond du Lac
·       7^th prize - Area Rug donated by Twohig Flooring America (valued at $1,000): John Klawitter, Fond du Lac
·       8^th prize - Cosmetic Dental Treatment & One-Hour Rembrandt In-Office Tooth Whitening donated by Dr. Kent Botsford (valued at $1,000): Mark and Deb Walgenbach, Fond du Lac
·       9^th prize - 42” Plasma TV donated by Silica TV & Appliance (valued at $549): Nick Kuechler
·       10^th prize - $300 shopping spree donated by Haentze Floral Co.: Susan Radant, Fond du Lac
·       11^th prize - Two-Night Stay with Breakfast for Two at any Wisco Hotel Group Location donated by Wisco Hotel Group (value $300): Marge Whitinger, West Bend
·       12^th prize - $250 gift certificate donated by Faber Building Center: Jason Brenner, Malone
·       13^th prize - Vince Lombardi Photo/Plaque donated by Carey Frameworks (valued at $90): Jayne Tettenborn, Fond du Lac

10-30-13 prison health care costs rising

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A new study shows Wisconsin's prisoner health care costs are rising.  A Pew Charitable Trusts and MacArthur Foundation report released Tuesday examined states' costs from 2001 to 2008. The study found Wisconsin's spending jumped 31 percent to nearly $4,850 per inmate in 2008.

The report attributes the increases to growing and aging prison populations, higher incidences of mental illness and chronic conditions. It mentions that states could save on costs by covering prisoners through Medicaid.  The current state budget lifts a cap on Medicaid enrollment for childless adults who make 100 percent or less of the federal poverty level beginning in January 2014, allowing prisoners to qualify for coverage for overnight hospital costs. The Legislative Fiscal Bureau estimates that federal reimbursements for such coverage could save the state as much $11.7 million by mid-2015.

10-30-13 wolf hunt update

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has closed Wolf Harvest Zone 1 and Zone 5 to hunting and trapping of gray wolves effective Wednesday, Oct. 30, 7p.m. At that time, the zone is closed to any further hunting and trapping of wolves for the 2013-2014 wolf harvest season. With these closures, a total of three wolf harvest zones have closed this season. Wolf hunters and trappers are advised that they can currently continue to pursue wolves in Zones 3, 4, and 6.  The state wolf harvest quota for Zone 1 was set at 76 wolves and the closure process was initiated when 72 wolves were reported as harvested. The state wolf harvest quota for Zone 5 was set at 34 wolves and the closure process was initiated when 33 wolves were reported as harvested.  “Harvest trends in Zone 1 have been steady with an increased harvest rate over the past few days and Zone 5 has been steady with two additional wolves registered late in the day Tuesday, prompting closure ,” said David MacFarland, DNR large carnivore specialist. “We will be considering harvest trends as we approach quotas in other zones as well.”  When additional zones are closed, the DNR will announce such closures by news releases, notification at dnr.wi.gov, and on the wolf call-in number, 1-855-299-9653. It is the hunter’s and trapper’s responsibility to check for and know about zone closures. The department encourages hunters and trappers to check the website or the call-in number daily.   “Our ultimate goal is to harvest 251 wolves, distributed across the landscape,” said MacFarland. “The harvest zones are a tool by which we attempt to direct the harvest to achieve desired outcomes. The quotas concentrate hunting pressure more in areas with higher potential for conflicts, allowing for higher population densities in core habitat where potential for conflict is lower. This is our second season, and we continue to learn information about harvest success that will be valuable in future management decisions.”  For more information, please visit dnr.wi.gov and search keyword “wolf.”

 

10-30-13 fdl community service officer program expands

Fond du lac police say an expanded Community Service Officer program is a win-win situation for the officers and the community.  The Fond du Lac city budget approved last week includes $66,000
to fund five additional CSOs and to increase the hours of two existing summertime CSOs.  Assistant Police Chief Steve Klein says the CSOs handle duties that help free up patrol officers to focus on more serious  crime.  Klein says under the program the CSOs receive college credit but no pay during

the school year…and are paid when they work during the summer.  He says a lot of the CSOs end up applying for an open officer’s position after they graduate.

10-30-13 waupun woman accused of striking developmentally disabled person pleads not guilty

A Waupun woman accused of striking a developmentally disabled person in the face has pleaded not guilty.  Fifty four year old Mary Jo Kearley entered the plea Monday in Dodge County Circuit Court.  She is charged with intentionally abusing a patient under her care.  According to a criminal complaint Kearley works at Bethesda Day Services and was eating lunch when a female patient tried to grab her food.  According to the complaint Kearley grabbed the patient’s hand and slapped her in the face.  Kearley told police she just snapped.

10-30-13 fdl county board compensation

Fond du lac County Board supervisors’ salary would stay the same under a resolution that comes before the county finance committee this week.  County Executive Al Buechel says a proposed resolution would leave supervisor’s annual salary at  $3000 following the 2014 spring election and would keep eligible per diems the same.  Buechel says on average Fond du lac County Board supervisors are paid less than other county boards in Wisconsin.  The finance committee will consider the resolution at their meeting Thursday.   County Board compensation changed from an all per diem system to an annual salary after the county board was downsized following a 2008 referendum.

10-30-13 fdl police awards

Dozens of police officers and citizens have been recognized for their heroic efforts this past year at the Fond du Lac Police Department’s annual Awards Banquet.   Dr. Shane Bauer, Mr. Shayne Bauer and Dave Chitek received the citizen of the year award for helping police nab a strong armed

robbery suspect near the Forest Mall.  "It started in the parking lot and the suspect ran east.  The victim began screaming right away and between these individuals they got the 911 calls rolling, keeping an eye on the guy, starting to track him and eventually some of them physically intervened,"  Chief Bill Lamb told AM 1170 WFDL's Between the Lines program.  "Literally took him to the ground and held him to the ground even though he was actively fighting them, one of them was struck...they were able to detain him until we got officers on the scene to make the arrest."  Four officers received  Lifesaving Awards  for their response to three separate incidents.  Lieutenant Ed Wenzel and officer Shawn Provot rescued an elderly man from a fire.  Officer Brian Bednarek was credited for the saving the life of a suicidal subject.  Officer Ben Hardgrove received an award for preventing someone from jumping off  the Johnson Street overpass.  Detective Matt Bobo received the outstanding arrest award for cracking regional car theft ring.  "He (Bobo) ended up making the first arrest but he continued to work that investigation and it ended up going to several other cities throughout the southeast Wisconsin area.  As a result of his investigation, they recovered 30 stolen vehicles,"  Lamb said.   Outstanding Team Effort Awards go to detectives Steve Kaufman, Lee Mikulec, Mike Mueller and Dan Razner for the Jason Anderson homicide arrest and conviction and detectives Scott Krause, Steve Kaufman, Dan Wilson and Bill Ledger for the arrest of Roy Whitelow and Regionald Dorsey in a heroin overdose case.  Several other officers were recognized for their efforts in cracking down on illegal drug trafficking.  "Dating back about 20 months now we're very proud to announce that over the course of that period of time we've taken off (the streets) 200 different drug dealers,"  Lamb said. 

10-30-13 fdl student recognized by fdl police

The Fond du lac Police Department is recognizing a Fond du lac 6^th grader at their awards banquet last week.  Saint Mary’s Springs Academy 6^th grader Emma Holzmann’s D.A.R.E essay was also recognized this past summer as one of the top essays in the state at the D.A.R.E. Officers Conference.  D.A.R.E. stands for Drug Abuse Resistance Education and Fond du Lac police D.A.R.E officer Steve Olson says when students graduate from the  program they write an essay explaining what they learned.  Olson submitted four essays at the end of last school year…and says he had a good feeling about Emma’s chances after reading her essay.  Emma is the daughter of Terry and Jenny Holzmann.

10-30-13 fdl female police officer receives award

A female officer on the Fond du lac police force is the recipient of a Wisconsin Association of Women Police Merit award.  Officer Cammie Vandermolen received the award at the association’s

fall luncheon in Madison earlier this month. The award recognizes a female police officer who distinguishes herself by superior accomplishments or continuing long term involvement in, or leadership of projects, which make a significant contribution to public safety or to law enforcement.   Officer Vandermolen serves as the advisor for the Fond du lac Police Department Explorer Scouts which is made up  of 14-20 year olds who want to learn more about the law enforcement profession.   This past summer officer Vandermolen and her explorer scouts put together a summer safety school for 2^nd through 5^th grade students at the Boys and Girls Club of Fond du lac and have established a mentoring partnership with the Boys and Girls club.

10-30-13 school vouchers

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Nearly 80 percent of students who received a taxpayer subsidized voucher to attend private school this year did not attend a Wisconsin public school last year.  The state Department of Public Instruction on Tuesday released its final student counts for those participating in the newly expanded voucher program.  Participating Appleton and Green Bay/Depere private schools have the highest voucher enrollment, each with 53 FTE students.  In Fond du lac,  St. Mary’s Springs Academy has 19 FTE students.  DPI figures show that 21 percent of those receiving vouchers attended a Wisconsin public school last year. The voucher program is touted by its supporters as a way to help students escape poor-performing public schools.  The figures show that 73 percent of students getting vouchers went to a private school last year. Just over 3 percent didn't attend school while 2.4 percent were homeschooled.  The Legislature expanded the voucher program statewide this year but capped enrollment at 500 students.

10-30-13 poll-health care law

MILWAUKEE (AP) — More Wisconsin residents say they disapprove of the new health care law than approve of it, but they strongly disagreed with shutting down the federal government in an attempt to weaken it.

A Marquette Law School poll on Tuesday said 42 percent of respondents have a favorable view of the law, while 48 percent have an unfavorable view.  Republicans failed to defund President Barack Obama's signature health care overhaul with a 16-day partial government shutdown. That tactic was wasn't popular with voters, as 19 percent supported the strategy but 76 opposed it.  Respondents gave congressional Democrats an approval rating of 33 percent, compared to 17 percent for Republicans in Congress.  The poll interviewed 800 registered voters between Oct. 21 and Thursday. The margin of error was 3.5 percentage points.

10-30-13 governor approval rating

MILWAUKEE (AP) — Gov. Scott Walker's latest approval rating stands at 49 percent, which is about where it's been all year.  The Marquette University Law School poll was released Tuesday. It found that his approval rating grew slightly since July, when 48 percent approved of the job the Republican first-term governor was doing.  Walker's four-year term ends next year. He hasn't specifically said he's running for re-election, and some observers think he may be gearing up for a 2016 presidential run.  This is Marquette's first poll since former Trek Bicycle Corp. executive Mary Burke said she'll run against Walker as a Democrat. Democratic state Sen. Kathleen Vinehout is also weighing a run.  The poll interviewed 800 registered voters between Oct. 21 and Thursday. Its margin of error of 5 percentage points.

10-30-13 governor's race-burke poll

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Democrat Mary Burke's campaign says a new poll showing her in a dead heat with Republican Gov. Scott Walker indicates that voters are open to new leadership.  The Marquette University Law School poll released Tuesday shows Walker with 47 percent support compared with 45 percent for Burke roughly one year before the election. That is within the poll's 5 percentage point margin of error.

But it also shows 70 percent of voters don't know who Burke is.  Burke's campaign spokesman Joe Zepecki says in a statement that the results confirm that the state remains deeply divided politically and is open to new leadership.  Burke is the only declared Democratic candidate. State Sen. Kathleen Vinehout is also considering getting into the race.

10-29-13 fdl police awards banquet

Years of Service Recognition

5 Years of Service
·         Officers Brian Bednarek, Keywon Brown, Matt Chevremont, Rebecca Kollmann, Nate Rucker, Cammie Vandermolen, and Executive Asst Michelle Anthes
10 Years of Service
·         School Resource Officer Corby Gross and Officers Charles Beckford and Ben Colwin
15 Years of Service
·         East District Commander/Captain Aaron Goldstein, Lieutenant Dave LeCaptain, Officer Pam O’Hearn
20 Years of Service
·         Assistant Chief/Operations Steve Klein
30 Years of Service
·         Detective Pat Primising
Distinguished Service Award
·         LT Dave LeCaptain – 10 years of service to the SWAT Team
Unit/Team Appointments
·         Special Team/Unit ‘Team Pins’ presented to Field Training Officers and newly appointed SWAT Team members
Recognition of DARE Graduate/State Essay Award Winner
·         Ms. Emma Holzmann
Community Partnership Awards
·         Sophia Foundation (for outstanding support of the Department’s ongoing Servant Leadership efforts)
·         Maplewood Commons Apartment Complex (for their partnership and support in helping our East District Police Team in reducing calls for service, incidents of crime/disorder, and thereby improving quality of life in their neighborhood) Presented to Ms. Kelly Donaldson and Ms. Katrina Huebner
·         Lakeside Gardens East and West Apartment Complexes (for their partnership and support in helping both our West and East District Police Teams in reducing calls for service, incidents of crime/disorder, and thereby improving quality of life in their neighborhood) Presented to Ms. Betty Neau and Chris Cardenas
Citizen Awards
·         Dr. Shane Bauer
·         Mr. Shayne Bauer
·         Mr. David Chitek
For their role in helping the Police Department apprehend the suspect that robbed a female in the area of Peters Ave/Arndt St on May 28, 2013
Commander’s Award
·         Officer Cammie Vandermolen
Presented for outstanding work and initiative with the Department’s Explorer’s Post and community policing efforts with the Boys and Girls Club
Lifesaving Award
·         Presented to LT Ed Wenzel, Officers Brian Bednarek, Shawn Provot, and Ben Hardgrove
Outstanding Team Effort Award
·         Jason Anderson Homicide Arrest/Conviction -  presented to Detectives Steve Kaufman, Lee Mikulec, Mike Mueller, (Retired) Dan Razner
·         Roy Whitelow 1^st Degree Reckless Homicide Investigation/Arrest – presented to Detectives Scott Krause, Steve Kaufman, and Dan Wilson
·         Reginald Dorsey 1^st Degree Reckless Homicide Investigation/Arrest – presented to Detectives Bill Ledger and Dan Wilson
·         Renner Drug Tracking Ring Arrest – presented to Detective Scott Krause, Street Crimes Unit Officer Vance Henning, and Officers Charles Beckford, Brian Bednarek, Rebecca Kollmann, Shawn Provot, and Ryan Williams
·         High Intensity Drug Enforcement Efforts – presented to Detectives Scott Krause, Mike Mueller, and Bill Ledger, Lieutenants Andy Gill, Tina Braun, Jason Laridaen, Dave Frohrip, Ed Wenzel, Tony Hahn, Dave LeCaptain, Captains Pat McKeough and Robb Duveneck, Street Crimes Unit Officers Vance Henning and Nick Hahn, and Officers Zach Schultz, Curt Beck, Nate Rucker, Ben Hardgrove, Shawn Provot, Kristen Kachelmeier, and Records Clerk Mary Kay Beau
Outstanding Arrest
·         Regional Car Theft Ring Investigation and Arrest - Presented to Detective Matt Bobo
Mission Award
·         Presented to Officer Kristina Meilahn for outstanding work and initiative with mental illness needs in the community
Outstanding Achievement
·         Officer Kristina Meilahn – Soroptimist International Foundation Award
·         Officer Cammie Vandermolen – Wisconsin Association of Women Police Merit Award
·         Domestic Violence Intervention Team Members – ‘Those Who Care About Domestic Violence Award’ by St. Agnes Hospital Domestic Violence Program and Solutions Center
Presented to DVIT Team Members – Lieutenants Dave LeCaptain and Dave Frohrip and Officers Kieran Weed, Nate Rucker, Kristina Meilahn, Zach Schultz, Matt Chevremont, Kristen Kachelmeier, Kari Gordee, Melissa Sprangers, Chris Deering, Ragan Pecore

 

 

 

10-29-13 nfdl railroad crossing barricades going up

The railroad crossing at Lakeshore Drive in the village of North Fond du Lac is closing this morning and village officials hope that will end the seemingly constant  sound of train whistles.      The village board gave its final vote last night on erecting barricades at the crossing.  The crossing is closed except for emergency vehicles.     Village administrator Chuck Hornung says train whistles have been sounding  at all hours of  the day and night since the Federal Railroad Administration lifted the village quiet zone last month.  Hornung says the village explored several avenues without success to get an extension to the quiet zone.

10-29-13 convicted child sex offender moving to new location in fdl county

A convicted Fond duLac sex offender is moving to a new community.  Fond du lac County Sheriff’s Lieutenant Cameron McGee says 32 year old Jason Wolford is moving from Fond du Lac to a residence at 140 W Main Street in Eden this Friday.  Wolford spent time in prison for sexually assaulting children.  He was released from prison two years ago.  There are 268 registered sex offenders in Fond du Lac County.

10-29-13 convicted child sex offender sentenced in dodge county

A Watertown man convicted of sexually assaulting a then twelve year old girl in 2011 was sentenced Friday in Dodge County Circuit Court.  Judge John Storck ordered an imposed and stayed sentence of 10 years of initial confinement and ten years of extended supervision for 43 year old Steven Leinstock.  Storck also ordered ten years of probation with a condition of one year in jail.  In July, Leinstock pleaded guilty to a charge of repeated sexual assault of the same child.  Leinstock was accused of inappropriately touching the girl multiple times between June and September of 2011.

10-29-13 eab information meeting

The Fond du Lac Public Works Director says he wouldn’t be surprised if the destructive Emerald Ash Borer is already here.  Jordan Skiff says EAB has already been detected to the south and north of the city of Fond du lac so chances are its here and just hasn’t been detected yet.  "I think the gut feeling from most experts is that its probably already here,"  Skiff said.  "Its within 25 miles south of here, its within 15 miles north of here.   It takes several years for it to really manifest itself in our tree population so I believe its probably here, we just haven't detected it yet."   Skiff says that’s why its important to take steps now to lessen the impact of the destructive beetle which has wiped out ash trees in other states.  An information meeting was held Monday evening at the city-county government center.

10-29-13 agnesian healthcare mobile website

Fond du Lac’s Agnesian HealthCare has unveiled a new mobile web site for information on the go.  Agnesian spokesperson  The mobile web site will help consumers access important health information, find providers and directions to key locations.  The mobile website includes the following categories: Careers, Find a Provider, Locataions and Directions, Classes and Events, Patient and Visitor Resources, Health Library, and Contact Us.  It is accessible at www.agnesian.com from your mobile phone.

10-29-13 fdl area foundation announces two new funds

The Fond du Lac Area Foundation has announced two new funds that will benefit Lakeside Park and flowers in city parks.  Foundation Director Sandi Roehrig says the Lakeside Park Charitable Fund was established by Fond du Lac Festivals to provide enhancements at Lakeside Park above that which would be supported by tax dollars.  Roehrig says the Parks Flower Fund was established by the Master Gardener Association to purchase, grow and maintain the flowers and flowerbeds in city parks.  Roehrig  says a special fund bequested by the late Father Blied 25 years ago is almost gone.

10-29-13 13 year old girl killed in snowmobile safety class accident

The DNR is working with Osceola police in investigating a tragic fatal snowmobile accident that claimed life of a 13 year old girl.  DNR warden Todd Schaller tells WFDL news Sarah Thorsland  was participating in a snowmobile safety class and was killed when her machine  accelerated and crashed in western Wisconsin.  "A very tragic event, our thoughts are certainly with the family and the people involved in this,"  Schaller said.  "We're doing a thorough investigation to understand exactly what happened."  The girl was taking a class being taught by volunteers from the local snowmobile club on Saturday when her snowmobile suddenly accelerated and hit a loading dock. She was rushed to Osceola Medical Center, then airlifted to Regions Hospital in the Twin Cities and transferred to Gillette Children's Hospital.  Thorsland died on Sunday.

Police say the young teen was wearing a helmet. The cause of the acceleration is being  investigated by police and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.

10-29-13 wisconsin casino

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A state appeals court says it plans to decide whether to block a contempt ruling against Wisconsin labor relations officials by next week.  Dane County Circuit Judge Juan Colas in 2012 found provisions of Gov. Scott Walker's collective bargaining restrictions unconstitutional as they apply to local public unions. But the Wisconsin Employment Relations Commission has continued to prepare for certification elections for hundreds of unions next month regardless. Colas found WERC in contempt of court last week.  State attorneys asked the Supreme Court on Friday to stay the 2012 ruling pending an appeal. They also asked the 4th District Court of Appeals to stay the contempt finding.  The appeals court issued an order Monday saying it plans to rule by Nov. 4. It's unclear when the Supreme Court might rule.

10-29-13 governor-kenosha casino

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Gov. Scott Walker is promising a daily update on issues he's considering as he decides whether to grant the Menominee Nation's plans for an off-reservation casino in Kenosha.

Walker planned to make a decision last week but announced on Friday he would give himself more time. He said in a statement Monday that the Menominee gave him volumes of information on the project and wants to review it thoroughly. He says he'll announce the issues he's considering in a daily email to the public.   On Monday he said he asked the Department of Administration to find out whether anyone is planning to open a new casino in Illinois if the Kenosha facility falls through. The agency says no tribal applications are pending with federal officials for any Illinois facilities.

10-29-13 asian carp

TRAVERSE CITY, Mich. (AP) — Federal scientists say they've found evidence for the first time that Asian carp have reproduced successfully within the Great Lakes watershed. U.S. Geological Survey experts reported Monday that four grass carp taken from the Sandusky River in Ohio originated there and are the result of normal reproduction.

10-29-13 fdl police officer struck by pickup

A Fond du Lac man faces charges after allegedly striking a police officer with his pickup truck.  Police were called to a report of a domestic disturbance Saturday night in the area of Seymour Street and Forest Avenue.  When officers arrived the 56 year old man was in his pickup yelling obscenities and

when officers asked the man to step out of the vehicle he yelled obscenities and started to back up his vehicle to leave striking officer Jed Martin.   Assistant police chief Steve Klein says Martin suffered a bruised hip.

10-28-13 fire destroys car

Nobody was injured in a fire that destroyed a car in Fond du Lac.  It happened Saturday afternoon on 4^th Street near Everett Street.  The driver says he pulled over when he noticed smoke in the vehicle and got out of the car before it burst into flames.  The cause of the fire appears to be electrical.

10-28-13 marsh fire

On Saturday, October 26, 2013, at approximately 2:25 pm, the Fond du Lac County Communications Center received a report of a marsh fire on CTH HHH west of Schoenborn Road in the Township of Calumet. Due to the dry conditions and high winds, the fire spread quickly through the marsh.  The Town of Calumet Fire Department responded and requested mutual aid from 14 area fire departments to assist in containing the fire.  CTH HHH and CTH HH between Schoenborn Road and Townhall Road needed to be closed for a period of time to allow for the fire department vehicles to access and transport water to the fire scene.   Investigation into the cause indicated the fire started from dry cattails being packed up into and around the engine and exhaust components of an ATV which was being operated by a hunter through the cattails.  No one was injured and property damage was limited to approximately 80 acres of cattail marsh.

10-28-13 emerald ash borer public information meeting

Fond du Lac area residents can learn more about the invasion of the Emerald Ash Borer at a public information meeting Monday.  The meeting will be held at 4:30pm in the legislative chambers
of the city county government center.   DNR representatives will present information about EAB which was detected in Fond du Lac and  Winnebago counties this past summer.  Fond du lac Public Works Director Jordan Skiff says the city is already taking  pre-emptive steps and has placed yellow ribbons on ash trees along Merrill  and Macy Street.  Skiff  says  although the trees are not necessarily scheduled  to be removed at this time, if left  untreated  they will likely be dead within a few years.     EAB was detected this past summer at the Mauthe Lake campground in southeast

Fond du lac County and the town of Blackwolf in Winnebago County.

10-28-13 fdl transgender ordinance appears to face uphill battle

An effort to protect transgender people when it comes to housing in Fond du Lac appears to face an uphill battle in the weeks before the city council votes on the question.  Openly gay councilmember Dan Manning is proposing that the words gender identity and expression be added to the list of protected classes under the city’s fair housing ordinance.  City council president Sam Meyer seems to be leaning against the change.   Meyer says he thinks the city’s present ordinance protects individuals by prohibiting discrimination based on a person’s sexual orientation.  "I personally would rather have us get back on track and focus on bringing jobs and economic prosperity to the city of Fond du Lac,"  Meyer told Am 1170 WFDL's Between the Lines program.  "I think that transgender individuals are protected under federal, state and local laws and ordinances under the sexual orientation portion of our ordinance."   But Manning says gender identity is not necessarily linked to sexual orientation.  "There have been some cases where gender identity complaints have been won under the umbrella of sex discrimination.  But that's really up to the judge or the equal opportunities commission or if its a civil litigation case up to the jury to decide,"  Manning said.   Several councilmembers including Meyer say they want to hear what the public has to say.  But Manning says protecting civil rights is not something that should be decided by a poll.  Councilmembers Block and Miller are in favor of the change.  Councilmembers Merkel and Foster say they haven’t made up their mind, while Meyer and councilmember Lorrigan appear to be leaning against.

10-28-13 heating assistance

A spokesperson for the state Department of Administration says  the state is hoping the amount of federal money received this year to help pay the heating bills of low income residents is more than
projected.  The Department of Administration projects the average heating benefit this season will be about $100 less than last season.  But department spokesperson Stephanie Marquis tells WFDL news that amount could still change.  The heating assistance is available now through May 15^th.  Eligibility is based on household income, household size and the home’s heating cost.  A family of four must earn less than $47,485 to qualify.  An individual can earn no more than $24,692.  Applications can be made through county social service offices and private nonprofit agencies.

10-28-13 community service officers

Fond du lac police say an expanded Community Service Officer program is a win-win situation for the officers and the community.  The Fond du Lac city budget approved last week includes $66,000
to fund five additional CSOs and to increase the hours of two existing summertime CSOs.  Assistant Police Chief Steve Klein says the CSOs handle duties that help free up patrol officers to focus on more serious  crime.  Klein says under the program the CSOs receive college credit but no pay during

the school year…and are paid when they work during the summer.  Klein says a lot of the CSOs end up applying for an open officer’s position after they graduate.

10-28-13 congress-ryan challenger

KENOSHA, Wis. (AP) — Rob Zerban (zer-BAHN'), the Democrat who lost to U.S. Representative Paul Ryan in last year's election, is mounting a new challenge next year.  Zerban told The Associated Press this week he was getting back in the race. He made his announcement official Saturday at a rally in Kenosha.  He lost last year by 12 percentage points, 55 percent to 43 percent. But that was Ryan's smallest margin of victory in eight races.  The 45-year-old Zerban is a former Kenosha County Board supervisor who used to run two small businesses. He blames Ryan for voting against ending the government shutdown, and for advancing a budget that cuts money from social-service programs.  Zerban says he supports green technology, immigration reform and same-sex marriage.

10-28-13 health overhaul confusion

APPLETON, Wis. (AP) — The new health care reform law makes health insurance available to the 500,000 Wisconsin residents who don't have it, but not all of them know about the new law or how it applies to them.  Groups are working to teach the uninsured about their options. But it's not easy to determine who those people are or where to reach them.  Michael Bare is with the Community Advocates Public Policy Institute in Milwaukee. He says his staff knows where the uninsured are concentrated, but it'll be challenging to get them committed to paying their monthly premiums on time.  Jon Peacock is a research director for Wisconsin Council on Children and Families. He estimates that only half the uninsured population knows about the new law.

10-28-13 speed limit bill racing through legislature

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — A proposal that would raise the speed limit on Wisconsin's interstates to 70 miles per hour continues to race through the Legislature.  The Assembly passed the bill earlier this month. A Senate committee plans to hold a public hearing on the measure Thursday and the full Senate could vote on it in November.  The bill would give the state Department of Transportation six months to change interstate speed limits from 65 to 70. The agency would have to submit a study to the Legislature within a year on the feasibility of raising the limit to 70 mph on other four-lane highways.  Democratic opponents have raised safety concerns with increasing the speed limit, but backers say most people already drive that fast now anyhow.

10-26-13 sheboygan county obit burglar pleads not guilty to shoplifting charges in fdl

A Sheboygan Falls man accused of using obituary notices to commit burglaries in Sheboygan County has been bound over for trial on charges of shoplifting from Mills Fleet Farm in Fond du lac.  Sixty three year old Dennis Petrie was  in Fond du Lac County Circuit  court Friday for his preliminary hearing and pleaded Not guilty to charges  of  bail jumping and retail theft.  According to a criminal complaint Petrie tried to shoplift two  LED flashlight bulbs by removing them from a package and

placing them in his mouth before leaving the store.  In Sheboygan County Petrie faces more than 30 charges including theft and burglary.  He is accused of using obituary notices and estate sale listings to burglarize homes of people who had recently died and  burglarizing homes of former co-workers and people on vacation.

10-26-13 wi doj asks for stays in wi union case

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — The Wisconsin Department of Justice is trying to put a hold on a Madison judge's ruling that parts of Gov. Scott Walker's collective bargaining restrictions are unconstitutional.  Agency attorneys asked the state Supreme Court on Friday to stay Judge Juan Colas' 2012 ruling invalidating provisions in the restrictions that affect local public unions. The Supreme Court already has agreed to review the decision but DOJ argues a stay would ensure that union re-certification elections take place next month as per the restrictions.  The agency also asked the 4th District Court of Appeals to stay a Colas ruling from earlier this week that found state labor relations officials in contempt of court for continuing to move ahead with the elections despite the 2012 ruling.

10-26-13 governor delays casino decision

MADISON, Wis. (AP) — Gov. Scott Walker has delayed his announcement on whether he will approve the Menominee Nation's new casino in Kenosha.  Walker spokesman Tom Evenson says the governor won't announce his decision Friday as originally planned. He says Walker needs more time to review information the Menominee submitted.  Walker wants all of the state's tribes to approve the $800 million casino before he will allow it. Two tribes, the Ho-Chunk and Potawatomi, have steadfastly opposed it.  Menominee Chairman Craig Corn says he's glad Walker is doing his due diligence. But Ho-Chunk President Jon Greendeer says the governor should make a decision quickly so all the tribes can move on and delaying the announcement gives the Menominee false hope. 

10-26-13 agensian pink glove dance video

Fond du lac’s Agnesian Healthcare has unveiled its new Pink Glove Dance video in the fight against breast cancer.   A special “video reveal” was held Friday at St. Agnes Hospital.  Agnesian spokesperson Kayla Kruepke says the video is competing against hundreds of other videos nationwide to win $25,000 for a cancer charity of choice.  Kruepke says if Agnesian wins the money would go to the American Cancer Society.  Kruepke says Agnesian needs the Fond du Lac area community to vote online for a chance to win.  The deadline is midnight November 8th.  Kruepke says the entire experience has been humbling.  Krueple says the first Pink Glove Dance video last year went viral with more than 14 million views.

10-26-13 agnesian lovelight campaign

Do you know someone with an autism-spectrum disorder? One in 68 children has an autism-spectrum disorder (ASD), or disorder that interferes with a child’s social, behavioral and language development. This means that there are as many as 6,062 children under the age of five living in Fond du Lac County diagnosed with autism. This year’s 2013 Love Light fund drive, presented by the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation, will help uninsured or underinsured families that could benefit from the evaluations, therapy or assessment tools offered at the Agnesian Autism, Behavior & Communication Center (AABCC).    The AABCC, located at Doll & Associates, is the first center in the area to provide comprehensive, coordinated help to individuals and families. Families that call the center can expect to receive help and guidance.  Sarah Arnold, PsyD, and Teresa Davenport, PhD, NSCP, both with Agnesian HealthCare’s Doll & Associates, are serving as this year’s Love Light co-chairpersons.  Individuals can support Love Lights by purchasing a light in honor of someone they wish to remember or celebrate during the holiday season. This light will shine on the beautifully lit evergreen in front of Agnesian HealthCare. The cost is $10 per person. The names of those honored and remembered will be displayed through the holiday season in the St. Agnes Hospital and Fond du Lac Regional Clinic lobby areas. Love Lights can be purchased at both the hospital and clinic information desks, 430 E. Division Street.  The 2013 Love Light Tree Lighting Ceremony is scheduled at 6:30 p.m. on Wednesday, December 11 at the St. Agnes Hospital lobby. For more information on this year’s Love Light project, call the Agnesian HealthCare Foundation at (920) 926-4959.

10-26-13 sneak preview day at st. mary's springs academy

FOND DU LAC, WI, All  7th and 8th grade students in the Fond du Lac and surrounding areas are  invited to the annual Sneak Preview Day at St. Mary’s Springs Academy  (255 County Road K, Fond du Lac) on Friday, November 15 from 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM. The 7th graders will spend the day with SMSA teachers and Student Ambassadors enjoying eight 25-30 minute classes. All of these classes will involve interactive learning activities specific to each academic department. The students may take part in an exciting science experiment, play a game of Bible Trivia in theology, or learn how to throw a pot on the potter's wheel in art class, to name just a few.
The  8th graders will start the morning taking the ACT Explorer Test, which is a requirement for acceptance to St. Mary's Springs Academy. After lunch the 8th graders will take part in two sessions that will highlight  the many academic, social, emotional, and spiritual growth opportunities that SMSA has to offer.  Complimentary lunch will be provided for all who attend. As in the past, SMSA will provide transportation to and from the event for many students that reside in the outlying areas of Fond du Lac. Sneak Preview Day is a great time for students to make new friends as well as develop a deeper understanding of the opportunities that await you on the Ledge!

Registration is required for this event. Visit the following link to register: http://smsasneakpreview.eventbrite.com/. Please contact the Office of Enrollment Management and Communication at (920) 322-8008 or admissions@smsacademy.org for additional information.

10-26-13 dodge county car thief suspect apprehended

A Dodge County  car thief suspect who was the subject of a law enforcement manhunt this week has been apprehended.  Dodge County Sheriff Pat Ninmann says 21 year old William Rennhack

was arrested at gunpoint in Marquette County.  Ninmann says the incident unfolded Wednesday afternoon when town of Oconomowoc police spotted the stolen vehicle shortly before they gave chase.  The vehicle was found a short time later in the Dodge County town of Lebanon…and the suspect fled on foot.  Police  searched the area for several hours Wednesday afternoon and evening and warned residents to lock their homes, garages and vehicles because there was a possibility  Rennhack was armed and had active warrants for his arrest.  Police say Rennhack was armed when he was taken into custody at gunpoint.