The Southern Door School District is encouraging community members to consider running as write-in candidates in the upcoming school board election, as more seats are open than registered candidates.

District officials say three school board seats are up for election this spring, but only one candidate has officially filed to appear on the ballot. As a result, the district is seeking two additional residents willing to serve through write-in candidacy.

Any Southern Door resident eligible to vote may run as a write-in candidate if they were not on the ballot or decided to run after the filing deadline.

Because there are fewer candidates than available seats, write-in candidates do not need to formally register for their votes to be counted, provided they are not raising or spending campaign funds. Candidates who do fundraise, or have expenses paid on their behalf, must register under state election rules.

All write-in votes will be counted. Those elected through write-in votes will receive a certificate of election and complete required paperwork before taking office. If a winning candidate declines to serve, the school board will appoint a replacement.

District Administrative Assistant Sue Ann Hubbard encouraged interested residents to reach out with questions about serving on the board. For more information, please visit the Southern Door School Districts website.

The accolades continue to grow for Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB), which is earning national recognition not only for service quality but also for reliability.

Earlier this year, aviation research firm Swelbar-Zhong Consultancy named Austin Straubel the 2025 Best Overall Nonhub Airport in the United States. Now, the airport has received another national nod. A new analysis by AirAdvisor ranks GRB among the most punctual small airports in the country.

The report evaluated airport reliability using U.S. Department of Transportation data from May 2024 through May 2025, focusing on chronically delayed flights and long evening delays. Austin Straubel tied for a spot among the top five most reliable regional airports nationwide. Joining Santa Barbara (California), Morgantown (West Virginia), Gillette-Campbell (Wyoming), and Durango (Colorado) as the most reliable..

Research found GRB recorded a low share of flights delayed more than 60 minutes during late afternoon and evening hours, a key factor for travelers trying to avoid missed connections or overnight disruptions. Most delays at the airport were resolved before the final flight left for the day.

AirAdvisor CEO Anton Radchenko says that “Many travelers assume small airports are more reliable, and sometimes that’s true. Reliability depends on other factors like recovery options and long term weather conditions. Flight volume also matters significantly at small airports. With fewer daily departures, a single delay or cancellation can have a ripple effect which limits rebooking options and extends travel time. ”

Radchenko noted that earlier flights generally offer better reliability at GRB, while evening delays are more likely to extend travel disruptions. “Small airports typically work best early in the day. Flights before 5 p.m. have more recovery options, while evening delays are far more likely to turn into hour-long disruptions.” 

Over the past few years, I have been providing resiliency education to various groups throughout the state of Wisconsin, including first responders, military personnel, civic organizations and area schools. While each of these groups brings with it a very unique background and can incorporate resiliency skills into both professional and personal life, it is our youth whom I feel can benefit the most, as they have yet to venture out into the world and experience those moments of challenge and adversity that require resiliency skills.

For those not familiar with this approach, I will start with a quick introduction to resiliency, which is defined as “the ability to withstand, recover and/or grow in the face of stressors and changing demands.”

You will notice that I capitalized and bolded the word “grow,” as this is the true goal when navigating difficult moments in our lives. It is the difference between merely surviving and thriving. It is the difference between succumbing to struggle and allowing it to limit your future, or growing from that struggle and allowing it to become the strength that propels you forward.

When I begin this course of instruction, I usually start by simply stating to the class of young, eager minds in front of me that they will all, in fact, fail. You can imagine the looks I get, both from the students and the teachers in the room, who at that point are probably asking, “Who invited this guy?”

I then draw from a quote by Winston Churchill, who stated, “Success is not final, failure is not fatal: It is the courage to continue that counts.”

Therefore, the only time we truly fail is when that failure becomes our reality. Think of all the experiences and resulting growth that come from our efforts throughout life — everything from walking to riding a bike to mastering skills in academics, music and sports. Our road to success in any of those areas was marked by early failures and perseverance through those failures.

We call this “failing forward,” as we never return to our point of origin. Rather, we move forward from that point in time, learning from the failure, taking inventory of what we have gained from it, and once again pursuing what we set out to conquer. The other option, of course, is to be defeated — to allow that adversity to define you in such a way that you use it as a perpetual excuse for why you can’t do something. In this reaction, you do, in fact, fail. We call this “voluntary victimhood,” and it is truly a sad existence.

It is a disservice to our youth to tell them they will be successful in whatever they pursue or that they will not fail. It is better to share the reality that they will hit many walls throughout their lives, both professionally and personally, and that this is not only alright — it is the very essence of growth. We would be better suited to give them the tools necessary not just to withstand or recover from those struggles, but to grow from them.

It is essential that we share the understanding that adversities — and the scars, injuries and yes, even trauma — do not establish weakness within us, but instead can become our greatest source of strength. We can acknowledge the injuries that result from struggle while embracing those same injuries as the source of our unbreakable resolve to grow in every aspect of our lives. The choice is yours, regardless of age.

Choose the journey of growth.

The future of the new Village of Sister Bay administration building is missing one thing: you.

Sister Bay officials are hosting a public information meeting Monday to discuss the administration building project on Mill Road. The forum comes months after the former Parks Department building property was chosen as the replacement site for the current administration building on Maple Drive.

It is one of many projects new Village Administrator Benjamin Andrews inherited when he officially took the role earlier this year. Andrews said the village is in the feasibility phase of the planning process, meaning officials want to hear from residents about what they would like included in the project before proceeding into the archtecture and engineering phase.

The public information meeting will be held during the regularly scheduled Parks, Property and Streets Committee meeting at 1 p.m. at the Sister Bay/Liberty Grove Fire Station on Mill Road in Sister Bay.

A new face is helping guide neighbors in acquiring the necessities they need to put meals on the table.

The Kewaunee County Food Pantry announced this week that Eric Weidner is its new president and director.

Weidner began his education at the Milwaukee School of Engineering and later earned a pair of associate degrees from Northeast Wisconsin Technical College before starting his own businesses. He got his first taste of nonprofit work with the Military Avenue Business Association. The opportunity to make a difference in the community in this way is something Weidner said he has been praying for his entire life.

Weidner hopes to expand the pantry’s showroom to provide more options for customers when they visit.

Weidner and the Kewaunee County Food Pantry recently received a boost to those efforts with a grant from Hunger Task Force. The funding will allow them to work more closely with area farms to bring additional fresh and nutritious options to the pantry.

The towns of Ahnapee, Lincoln and Pierce are inviting residents to weigh in on a proposal from the city of Algoma to contribute to the construction of its new fire station.

City officials broke ground in October on the estimated $3.9 million Sunset Avenue facility, which will replace the department’s cramped downtown headquarters.

According to contractor Bayland Buildings, the new facility will include 5,800 square feet of offices, meeting rooms and fire/EMS operations space; 11,300 square feet of drive-thru apparatus bays and a wash bay; and a 2,000-square-foot mezzanine.

The project was to be funded through a portion of the proceeds from the October 2024 general obligation debt issuance, interest earned on those proceeds, a $200,000 donation from Terrance Fulwiler and capital project fund reserves.

The city has now asked the towns, which receive services from the Algoma Fire Department rather than maintaining their own departments, to contribute to the project. The towns’ total investment would be $600,000, split among the three based on population. While the Town of Ahnapee is solely served by the Algoma Fire Department, half of the Town of Lincoln is covered by the Luxemburg Fire Department and half of the Town of Pierce is covered by the Kewaunee Fire Department.

The towns would have no ownership stake in the building if they approve the plan, nor would they lose fire protection services if they decline.

Town of Lincoln Chairperson Jesse Jerabek says that they get great service from both departments and all three town chairpersons want to meet with their residents about the proposals as service contracts start to come up for renewal.

The three towns will host a joint informational meeting at 6:30 p.m. at St. John’s Hall in Rankin. Residents will be able to weigh in on the proposal following a presentation.

The fire station is expected to open later this spring.

Peninsula Players Theatre is accepting applications for its annual scholarship program, offering financial support to Door County high school seniors pursuing studies in arts management, music, or theatre.

The $1,000 scholarship will be awarded to one graduating senior from each of the county’s five high schools, plus one homeschooled student. Applicants must plan to enroll full-time in college or technical school with a major or minor in arts management, music, or theatre, including acting, theatre studies, design, or technical theatre.

“We’re really excited to be offering our scholarship program again,” said Managing Director Brian Kelsey. “It is very meaningful for our organization to do what we can to encourage high school students of Door County to pursue a career in the arts. The arts are so important in our early formative years for critical thinking and how it can lead to future careers.” He added, “Access to arts education can shape not only careers, but lives. These scholarships are an investment in the creativity, dedication, and potential of Door County students.”

Applications are available through the Door County Community Foundation and must be submitted by April 6, 2026, via email, in person, or through the post office.

More information is available at the Door County Scholarships website.

With U.S. Coast Guard members across the country potentially missing a paycheck next month due to the partial government shutdown, the United Way of Door County needs your help to ensure they are able to put food on their tables. Agencies under the Department of Homeland Security umbrella, including the U.S. Coast Guard, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Transportation Security Administration, have all been impacted by the shutdown.

Democrats and Republicans are sparring over funding related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations after two people were killed in Minnesota. While some employees have been furloughed, essential personnel such as TSA agents and Coast Guard members have been working without pay.

This is the second time since October that paychecks for U.S. Coast Guard members have been threatened as a result of a government shutdown. The United Way of Door County began collecting gift cards in October to distribute to local Coast Guard families, but paychecks arrived in the nick of time. With no end in sight this time, Executive Director Amy Kohnle says the organization is asking for the community’s help to support local Coast Guard personnel.

You can drop off gift card donations at the United Way offices on Third Avenue in Sturgeon Bay. Kohnle says they are putting plans in motion to expand support for Coast Guard families if the partial government shutdown continues and another paycheck is missed.

According to CBS News, the Senate’s latest attempt to fund the Department of Homeland Security failed to reach the 60-vote threshold needed to advance the bill. Democrats and Republicans are both pointing fingers at each other for failing to reach a compromise.

Note: A previous version of this story noted that Coast Guard members were going to miss a paycheck this Friday (2/27). The United Way of Door County learned that they were paid, but paychecks next month are still in question due to the partial government shutdown. The story has been edited above to reflect this change.

Wisconsin legislators wasted no time sharing their thoughts on President Donald Trump’s State of the Union address Tuesday.

A lot of ground was covered in President Trump’s 1-hour, 47-minute speech before a joint session of Congress, U.S. Supreme Court justices, government officials and other guests. He touted his administration’s accomplishments during his first year back in the White House, which included securing the border, record highs in the stock market, lower gasoline prices and large tax cuts.

President Trump also addressed the Supreme Court’s ruling against his tariffs and attacked Democrats’ views on illegal immigration, voter identification and gender-affirming care for youth.

U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin spoke with reporters ahead of the annual address, introducing Mindoro, Wisconsin, resident Kim Frederick as her guest for the evening. Frederick relies on Medicaid to help care for her son, who has Down syndrome, and she feels the federal government is heading down a path that could cut that assistance. Baldwin said Frederick is one example of Wisconsinites who are struggling to afford the basics due to the Trump administration’s actions.

U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson addressed some of the topics raised by President Trump during his State of the Union address as part of his semi-regular tele-town hall meeting Tuesday, including the SAVE America Act and immigration actions by Department of Homeland Security officials. He said it was shameful that Democrats in attendance would not stand to support some of President Trump’s talking points.

U.S. Rep. Tony Wied celebrated President Trump’s speech, telling C-SPAN that his policies are leading to lower crime and drug deaths and more money in people’s pockets.

“We have a president who is doing what is best for everyday Americans,” Wied said.

In response to President Trump’s stance on violent repeat offenders staying behind bars, Wied and Rep. Tom Tiffany, R-Wis., introduced the Securing Our Streets Act, which would require those individuals to serve at least 85% of their sentences. According to The Washington Reporter, the bill would also eliminate loopholes that allowed early releases in the past.

Middle school represents a critical period of transition for young people, both academically and personally, and Wisconsin mental health leaders say students are facing both difficult and new challenges.

“We know that all youth, including middle school children, are experiencing anxiety and depression at rates that we have never seen before,” said Linda Hall, director of the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health.

Students ages 10 to 14 are navigating increasing academic expectations, growing independence and the onset of puberty while their brains are still developing. “Middle school kids are really going through a time of profound physical, cognitive, emotional and even social change,” Hall said.

That developmental stage can make tweens particularly vulnerable to stress and mental health challenges. National research shows half of all lifetime mental illness begins by age 14, and suicide is now the second leading cause of death among children ages 10 to 14.

Wisconsin data highlights growing disparities among students. Middle school girls report anxiety rates roughly 30 percentage points higher than boys.

“We do see that stress on young girls is even higher,” Hall said.

Hall emphasizes early intervention as a key solution. “Parents are encouraged to validate children’s feelings, support healthy routines and consider delaying smartphone use” She added.

Director Hall says that equipping tweens with coping skills and emotional regulation tools now can help protect their well-being well into adulthood.

The Algoma Public Library is introducing a fresh look this spring, unveiling a new logo as part of an updated brand identity designed to better reflect the library’s role as a modern community hub.

Library officials say the new logo represents growth, creativity and connection while maintaining the welcoming spirit residents have long associated with the Algoma library. The refreshed design will appear on library materials, promotional items and digital platforms as the organization continues expanding programs and services for all ages.

While the visual identity is new, the library’s mission remains unchanged — offering educational resources, creative programming and gathering spaces for the community.

March programming highlights the wide variety of activities available. Weekly Toddler Time continues Tuesdays at 10:30 a.m., while youth programs include an Afternoon Free Build on March 25 and “Crayolapalooza,” celebrating National Crayon Day on March 31.

Teen and adult offerings range from a Mario Kart Tournament on March 10 to an Unplugged Jam Session on March 13 for local musicians. Other events include a St. Patrick’s Day-themed “Plants of Gold” program, Sit ‘n’ Stitch crafting time and virtual reality travel experiences later in the month.

Adult learners can also attend a themed tea party, quilting workshop and Tech Thursday assistance session focused on locating tax forms.

Library officials encourage residents to watch for the new logo around the community as a symbol of continued growth and engagement. More information and registration details are available through the Algoma Public Library website.

A 51-year-old Algoma woman was checked by emergency personnel following a collision with a deer Wednesday morning.

The woman was driving south on County Highway S near Mount Olive Road in the Town of Nasewaupee shortly after 6 a.m. when she struck a deer crossing the road.

She complained of chest pain following the crash but did not need to be transported to a hospital. The vehicle was towed due to disabling damage.

February tends to be a slower time for vehicle-deer crashes, with 22 reported in 2024. That is the fourth-lowest total of any month, ahead of January (19), March (21) and April (14).

Sturgeon Bay officials met at City Hall Wednesday afternoon to discuss the future of Bradley Lake and the surrounding parkland during a scheduled committee meeting.

The Bradley Lake Ad Hoc Committee met to review ongoing restoration efforts and consider next steps for Bradley Lake, also known locally as Little Lake, located within Sunset Park. “Bradley Lake has been on our radar for many years,” said District 1 Alderperson Helen Bacon. “We’ve had several studies done in the past, including borings, etc.”

The meeting comes after the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources denied the city’s request to connect Bradley Lake to the Bay of Sturgeon Bay, a proposal previously viewed as a potential long-term solution for improving water quality. Bacon said the city is now exploring alternative approaches. “We’re looking at other options to make the lake more usable and beautiful. We’ve looked at dredging, partial dredging and even fish stocking to improve water clarity, water purity and reduce algae blooms,” she explained.

Alderperson Bacon noted that additional improvements could come with significant costs, and full restoration could potentially become very expensive. Bacon adds that residents should definitely attend more of these meetings to provide input as the committee studies options and prepares recommendations for the City Council.

As the Door County Historical Society celebrates 100 years of preserving local history, the organization is inviting residents across the peninsula to help shape a landmark centennial project.

DCHS has launched “100 Stories for 100 Years,” a history initiative aimed at highlighting the people whose lives reflect the story of Door County. The organization is seeking nominations for 100 individuals whose experiences capture the county’s heritage, culture and community spirit.

“We are launching a centennial, multi-generational project, and we are asking the community for help,” said DCHS Executive Director Amy Frank.

According to Frank, the project will recognize residents who have built businesses, worked the land and waters, served their communities, raised families and witnessed the changes that have shaped Door County over the decades.

“We want to capture the character, changes and traditions here in Door County,” Frank said.

Community members may nominate themselves or someone they admire, including parents, grandparents, neighbors, coworkers or friends. Organizers hope the final selection reflects a broad range of backgrounds, experiences and communities from across the peninsula.

The project is designed not only to celebrate the past, but also to preserve personal stories for generations to come. “The accounts will be put into a published book that the public can access,” Frank said.

Director Frank says community participation will be paramount to ensuring the voices that define Door County’s legacy are included. Nominations for “100 Stories for 100 Years” can be submitted through the DCHS website.

The Door County YMCA will host its annual Day of Giving on Tuesday, March 3, raising funds to support scholarship programs and expand access to services across the county.

The one-day celebration focuses on generating community support for financial assistance that helps

“Each year, we try to raise money in the community to support YMCA scholarship programs for those in our community in need,” said Sturgeon Bay Mission Advancement Director Brett Cleveland.

Day of Giving activities begin early with Coffee and Cookies at 5:30 a.m. at the Sturgeon Bay campus and at 6:30 a.m. at the Kane Center in Fish Creek. Throughout the day, supporters can take part in a YMCA T-shirt promotion, enjoy sweet treats and try their luck at a donation wheel for a chance to win YMCA swag and other prizes.

The annual rubber duck race is scheduled for 6:15 p.m., a longtime favorite that adds a splash of fun to the fundraiser.  Those interested can either attend in person or watch through the YMCA’s website or Social Media.

Funds raised during the event help ensure that cost is not a barrier for local residents seeking to improve their health and well-being.

“This ensures that anyone in the community that wants access to the YMCA and its programs, be able to do so regardless of their financial situation,” Cleveland said.

Community members are encouraged to stop by either location, participate in activities and make a donation to support neighbors in need.  For more information, please visit the Door County YMCA website, or listen to this week’s Y-Wednesday podcast here.

A connection between the continent’s only Church-approved Marian apparitions will be formed next month when a life-sized Pilgrim Mother Statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe takes up residence at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion, located near the Brown-Kewaunee county line.

The statue is on a world tour ahead of the 500th anniversary of the apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico. It will stop in Milwaukee and Fond du Lac before spending a week at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion beginning March 6.

From March 6-11, the shrine will offer several opportunities to attend Mass or participate in a “pilgrim experience,” which includes a presentation and personal veneration of the Pilgrim Mother Statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe.

The tour started in Chicago last August, drawing thousands of people throughout the archdiocese to pray before the statue.

Bishop David Ricken will open the statue’s visit with Mass at 11:30 a.m. March 6.

According to the 2020 U.S. Census, an estimated 105,000 Catholics live in Brown, Door and Kewaunee counties.

The Student Council at Southern Door High School is partnering with the American Red Cross to host a community blood drive on Thursday, Feb. 26, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. The drive will take place in the Southern Door High School gym.

Organizers encourage eligible community members to participate in the life-saving effort. Donors must be at least 17 years old and weigh a minimum of 110 pounds. Sixteen-year-olds may donate with signed parental consent. All donors should be in good general health at the time of donation. Parental permission forms are available through the Red Cross website.

Appointments are recommended and can be scheduled by visiting redcross.org, selecting “Give Blood,” and searching for drives in your zip code. While walk-ins are accepted, you may experience longer wait times without an appointment.

According to the Red Cross, someone in the United States needs blood every two to three seconds. Because blood cannot be manufactured, volunteer donors are essential to meeting the constant demand. Organizers remind residents that one donation can help save multiple lives.

A fire in the fitness room of an Egg Harbor resort caused a multi-agency response and an estimated $100,000 in damage Tuesday morning.

Emergency personnel were called to The Landmark Resort at 8:25 a.m. after smoke was reported in its Pilot House building. An evacuation was already underway when Door County Sheriff’s Office deputies and firefighters from Egg Harbor, Sister Bay/Liberty Grove, Ephraim, Gibraltar, Baileys Harbor, Jacksonport and Sturgeon Bay arrived.

According to Egg Harbor Fire Chief Justin MacDonald, a maintenance employee reported a fire in a light fixture and on a wall and was able to extinguish the blaze using two fire extinguishers.

Firefighters checked for possible extension of the fire into the attic and surrounding areas before ventilating the building. Crews cleared the scene shortly after 10 a.m.

No injuries were reported. Door County Emergency Medical Services and the Door County Dispatch Center also assisted at the scene.

Credit cards are not the only way to buy things now and risk getting burned later. Several e-commerce sites rely on services like Klarna, Affirm and Afterpay to allow consumers to break up their purchases into smaller chunks to pay off over several months. While there are options that allow you to pay for purchases over time with no interest charged, there are still ways you can get dinged for missing payments, just as you would with a credit card.

According to the Stanford Graduate School of Business, these services could cost the average consumer between $176 and $252 a year. Leslie Boden of Money Management Counselors in Sturgeon Bay says while it may be tempting to spread out your payments, you could quickly lose your grip on your finances if you are not mindful.

Boden invites people who are struggling with credit cards or other debt to contact her office to set up a financial counseling appointment or to learn more about upcoming workshops.

Road reconstruction work is expected to begin later this spring in the Purves Lagoon neighborhood, bringing long-awaited improvements to aging streets affected by past high water levels.

Construction is scheduled to start in late March or early April, weather permitting, on Circle Ridge Place and East Walnut Place between South Ridgeway Drive and South Tomahawk Avenue. The project includes removing and replacing curb and gutter, resetting inlet castings to improve drainage, excavating and restoring sunken roadway areas, restoring lawns with topsoil and seed, and installing new pavement.

District 4 Alderman Spencer Gustafson said the upgrades are necessary after years of deterioration caused by flooding and prolonged soil saturation.

“These roads are long overdue for repair,” Gustafson said. “Historically high water levels several years ago compromised the roadway base, and we wanted to make sure we designed a solution that truly fixes the problem rather than just patching it.”

City engineers have incorporated a specially designed webbed stabilization system intended to perform better in moisture-prone conditions and extend the lifespan of the streets.

Gustafson acknowledged construction may cause temporary inconvenience to residents, but emphasized the long-term benefits.

“I know infrastructure projects can test everyone’s patience, especially in waterfront neighborhoods,” he said. “This is a thoughtful, long-term investment in the (Purves Lagoon) area.”

Additional infrastructure work is planned this summer, including replacing a culvert under Ridgeway Drive near the marina. Full reconstruction of Ridgeway Drive is currently scheduled for next year.

The annual Sturgeon Bay City Wide Garage Sale will return June 5 and 6, offering residents and bargain hunters a chance to kick off the summer season with one of the community’s longest-running traditions.

The two-day event invites residents throughout the Sturgeon Bay to host garage sales while shoppers travel neighborhood to neighborhood, from Memorial Drive to Neenah Avenue, searching for deals. City officials say the sale is a popular way for residents to declutter, earn extra cash and connect with neighbors.

Sturgeon Bay residents who wish to participate must register by May 6. Registration costs $8 and helps cover printing of the official garage sale maps listing participating locations.

Registration forms are available at the Municipal Services Office, weekdays from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., or online at the city’s website.

A complete map and list of sale locations will be published ahead of the event to guide shoppers.

Residents with questions can contact Sturgeon Bay City Hall.

When Jack Hughes scored on Canadian goaltender Jordan Binnington to win Team USA’s first gold medal in men’s ice hockey since the 1980 Miracle on Ice, it was the walk-off moment Gibraltar alum Brandon Stillman had hoped after rearranging his flight home.

Stillman certainly was not the only Wisconsinite in Milan or Cortina for the 2026 Winter Olympics, which wrapped up Sunday. Six Wisconsin natives were part of Team USA at this year’s Games, including double gold medalist Jordan Stolz of Kewaskum.

Bobsledder Jadin O’Brien of Pewaukee; luger Marcus Mueller of Brookfield; Nordic combined athlete Ben Loomis of Eau Claire; and biathletes Deedra Irwin of Pulaski and Paul Schommer of Appleton also competed for Team USA, alongside 12 current and former members of the Wisconsin Badgers women’s hockey team, who also battled for gold.

Stillman’s Italian residency was much calmer than theirs as he traveled to Milan for his job with The Upper Deck Company. In addition to some soccer matches involving Inter Milan and AC Milan, Stillman was able to attend several Olympic men’s and women’s hockey games, including both Gold Medal matchups against Canada. A frequent attendee of sporting events around the world, Stillman says Sunday’s only rival is the Milwaukee Bucks’ run to an NBA title.

He credits his time at Gibraltar and Arizona State University for giving him the tools necessary to get a job that he loves and the opportunity to attend such a historic event.

After experiencing the Olympics in Milan and Cortina, Stillman is looking forward to potentially making the much shorter trips to Los Angeles in 2028 and Salt Lake City in 2034.

Though the quartet has only been together for a couple of weeks, you would think the four newest Miss Door County titleholders were longtime friends.

Miss Door County Kaylee Griep, Miss Door County Teen Mia Glocke, Miss Cherryland Paige Nikodem and Miss Cherryland Teen Elise Jackson attended their first event together at the Miss Milwaukee pageant over the weekend.

Jackson is the newest addition to the group after relinquishing her crown to Glocke at the Miss Door County Pageant earlier this month. Hoping to compete again despite a lack of available contests, the Miss Door County Scholarship Program opted to allow Jackson to represent the county again as an at-large competitor. Jackson said she is grateful for the opportunity.

Griep and Nikodem are proof the sisterhood is strong among Miss Wisconsin program participants. The pair previously competed against each other for the Miss Wisconsin’s Teen title in 2020, when Griep was Miss Door County Teen and Nikodem was Miss Oshkosh Teen. Both said they are excited to go through the process together this time.

While Griep, Nikodem and Jackson are veterans of the Miss Wisconsin circuit, the same cannot be said for Glocke. Like Jackson, Glocke said she had to be encouraged to compete this year, only to walk away with the Miss Door County Teen crown. She said she feels blessed to have three mentors to help guide her.

Griep, Glocke, Nikodem and Jackson will travel across the county over the next year promoting their community service initiatives, which will be highlighted individually in the coming weeks. The quartet also will compete in the Miss Wisconsin and Miss Wisconsin’s Teen competitions, scheduled for June 16-20, 2026, in New Berlin.

You can watch the full interview below.

A conversation about abortion among everyday people across the political spectrum helped give new life to a bill in Wisconsin.

Last week, the Wisconsin Legislature approved a measure extending postpartum care coverage from 60 days to 12 months for new mothers. Once Gov. Tony Evers signs it into law, Wisconsin will become the 49th state to adopt the extension.

While local State Rep. Joel Kitchens was among the bill’s co-authors, the idea was formed in a room with 14 everyday citizens, two of whom hailed from Door County. The group met through the Builders Movement, a nonpartisan global initiative and nonprofit organization dedicated to overcoming extreme political polarization.

The movement began in Tennessee, where 11 residents with varying political beliefs worked to address gun rights and safety through a variety of initiatives. In Wisconsin, 14 residents — including Sturgeon Bay’s Jacob VandenPlas — tackled the issue of abortion.

The group represented a wide range of political ideologies, from pro-life advocates like VandenPlas to those who identify as pro-choice. While they could not reach a consensus on legislation specifically related to abortion, Vandenplas said they were able to unite around one issue and pursue it.

He added that the 14 individuals in the room did what should be expected of elected officials. In times of extreme political division, he said, having a conversation is critical.

VandenPlas also praised the Builders Movement for bringing the group together, adding that many of the stories shared during their discussions about abortion weighed heavily on participants throughout the process.

Photo from Jacob VandenPlas for WIsconsin

You can play a vital role in alerting your community when it comes to severe weather events. Kewaunee County Emergency Management and the National Weather Service are hosting a SKYWARN Severe Weather Spotter Training on March 19 in Luxemburg in hopes of adding more citizen scientists to their ranks.

The 50-minute course, led by the NWS, helps attendees 15 years of age and older identify severe storm features, learn where to safely position themselves during an event, and understand how to communicate their findings.

Last year, the state dealt with 39 tornadoes, while Kewaunee County experienced several severe weather events, including heavy snow and ice during the winter and flooding and high winds during the summer months. Kewaunee County Emergency Management Director Tracy Nollenberg says there is always a need for weather spotters.

The presentation will take place at the Kewaunee County Emergency Operations Center at the Kewaunee County Fairgrounds in Luxemburg beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Icy roads and high winds are being blamed for a crash that sent one person to the hospital.

A 25-year-old Florida man was towing a trailer north on State Highway 57 near County Highway T at 6:10 p.m. Sunday when he lost control. The vehicle and trailer jackknifed and slid off the roadway into a nearby ditch.

Due to the conditions, the vehicle was red-tagged so it could be removed at a later time.

The driver was not injured, but his 23-year-old female passenger was taken to Door County Medical Center for treatment of a possible injury.

No citations were issued in connection with the crash.

The incident was part of a busy stretch for the Door County Sheriff’s Office, which responded to three crashes and one report of a vehicle in a ditch between 6 p.m. Sunday and 2 a.m. Monday.

You may have to check your routes if you plan on driving heavy machinery throughout the state as spring begins to rear its head in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation ended its frozen roads period last Friday and shortly after began its Class II roadway restrictions.

The restrictions apply to state highways that are susceptible to damage from heavy vehicles during the spring thaw. County highways, town roads, and city and village streets may still have their own restrictions in place.

The seasonal weight restriction program is enacted each year to help prolong the life of Wisconsin highways. Class II roadway restrictions typically last from early March until the first weekend in May.

Sturgeon Bay’s monthly Repair Café took place Saturday afternoon, at Hope United Church of Christ in Sturgeon Bay. Inviting peninsula residents to bring broken belongings for free repair. Hosted every third Saturday from 12 p.m. to 4 p.m., the event gives volunteers and visitors the chance to work side-by-side to fix everything from clothing and jewelry to furniture, lamps, small appliances and toys.  

Organized as a nonprofit, volunteer-run initiative under Sustain Door, the Repair Café has helped bring hundreds of items back to life since its inception last summer, all while building community skills.  

If you come in for a repair or just a consultation, you are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food donation for local food banks or a voluntary monetary contribution to support the program.  

If you have a knack for repairs and are interested in volunteering, your expertise is needed. From sewing and electronics to woodworking and tool repair, stop in, or simply sign up through the Café’s social media pages to help future events. 

A growing number of residents and visitors are taking part in Door County Rocks, a community-driven activity designed to spread kindness and creativity across the peninsula.

Participants paint colorful designs on small rocks, often featuring symbols of love, inspirational messages, or amateur Picassos, then hide them in public places for others to discover. The idea is to simply brighten someone’s day and encourage exploration throughout the county.

Those who find a rock can choose to keep it, re-hide it somewhere else in Door County, or even take it back to their own community to continue the tradition. Many participants share photos of their discoveries on the group’s Facebook page, helping connect rock painters and finders.

Rock artists are encouraged to seal their rocks to protect them from the elements and to write “Door County Rocks” on the back so others know where the message originated. However, rocks should not be placed in state parks or sensitive natural areas.

While exploring, amateur Geo-Rembrandts are reminded not to confuse the painted rocks with the historic Native American petroglyphs near Gills Rock, which are culturally significant and unrelated to the modern project.

Door County Rocks continues to grow as a simple way to spread joy, one stone at a time.

Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport may not be the biggest airport in the country, but it is proving to be one of the mightiest when it comes to getting travelers where they need to go.

Aviation research and advisory firm Swelbar-Zhong Consultancy announced Friday that Austin Straubel was named the 2025 Best Overall Nonhub Airport in the United States.

There are more than 270 nonhub airports across the country that handle more than 10,000 annual passenger boardings but less than 0.05% of total U.S. passenger boardings. These airports typically connect travelers to larger hubs.

The firm considered Austin Straubel’s air service, airport service quality, strong financial platform for airline economic performance and overall value delivered to passengers and the region.

The airport is coming off its strongest year in nearly 15 years, thanks in part to the 2025 NFL Draft held at Lambeau Field last April.

Airport Director Marty Piette said he takes great pride in Austin Straubel being named not only the best nonhub airport in the country, but also the most improved from 2024.

Piette extended his gratitude to every vendor, partner and employee at the airport for helping achieve the honor.

Major airlines are taking notice as well. Piette said United Airlines plans to increase its flights between Green Bay and Chicago from seven to nine per day in the coming months.

Fields that typically turn green after harvest looked more brown this fall, but farmers like Aaron Augustian hope appearances can be deceiving.

Farmers in Door and Kewaunee counties have used cover crops in recent years in an effort to control soil and water erosion. According to 2024 data from Peninsula Pride Farms, members planted more than 16,000 acres of cover crops to help build healthier soil and prevent important nutrients from being washed or blown away.

In some years, wet conditions keep farmers from getting back into the fields to plant cover crops. This year, however, the opposite was true.

Some farmers planted cover crops only to have Mother Nature fail to reward their efforts with rain and warm, sunny days. Much of the precipitation the area received this fall came in the form of snow, which does little to help cover crops grow.

While Augustian said he missed seeing the green this fall and winter, he hopes the cover crops are still doing their job below the surface.

Farmers are now busy finalizing their seed and nutrient plans for the spring planting season, which is still weeks away.

Crossroads at Big Creek is honored to host Lee Kernen for a special Fish Tales Lecture titled, “How Did Pacific Salmon Find Their Way to Door County?” on Thursday, Feb. 26, at 7 p.m.

Mention his name anywhere in the fishing community — from government fisheries biologists to commercial fishers, charter captains and weekend anglers — and the response is immediate: “He’s a living legend!” or “He’s a heck of a storyteller!”

Kernen has been inducted into the Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame — sort of the Grammys of the fishing world. His 33-year career with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources began in 1964, included time in Green Bay during the early years of the Great Lakes Pacific salmon program and culminated in his service as director of the Bureau of Fisheries Management in Madison, overseeing fisheries management statewide.

His work helped shape one of the most remarkable ecological interventions in Great Lakes history — the introduction of Pacific salmon to control exploding populations of alewife and revive a struggling fishery.

Many recall when the lakes were filled with alewife and beaches were lined with windrows — sometimes mountains — of odiferous dead fish. It was not pretty. Kernen will take audiences back to those days and explain how Pacific salmon changed both the ecological and economic story of Door County’s waters.

Much of this work happened before computers, electronic tagging, underwater telemetry or cellphones. The slides in this presentation have been scanned from old snapshots, offering a rare glimpse into hands-on fisheries science in its formative years. This promises to be an evening of vivid storytelling from someone who witnessed — and helped influence — a turning point in Great Lakes history.

The next day, Feb. 27, is a vacation day for many area students, so Crossroads is offering a School’s Out Excursion from 2 to 3:30 p.m. If weather cooperates (and this winter, that is a rather big “if”), kids will experience sliding using sleds and kicksleds. If there is not enough snow, the lab will feature ice- and snow-related interactive demonstrations. These activities are geared toward elementary-age students, but learners of all ages are encouraged to participate.

On Feb. 28 at 2 p.m., the Science Saturday activity, “Leap Year in Nature,” will explore the math and folklore behind why February usually has 28 days and why we add an extra day every four years (the next leap year arrives in 2028). Participants will also examine something nature seems to understand well — that in most wildlife species, males do the displaying and competing, but females usually make the final choice.

New and seasoned volunteers can learn about upcoming opportunities at the Volunteer Mixer on Monday, March 2, from 5 to 5:30 p.m.

Trails at Crossroads are open daily, free of charge. Check the ticker on the Crossroads website for current trail conditions and Ski-for-Free hours.

Event Schedule

Thursday, Feb. 26

2 p.m. — Family Fun in the Lab
Kids, parents and grandparents can explore science together in a hands-on lab setting. Expect simple (and possibly messy) science activities that spark curiosity and creativity. No reservations required. Free and open to all ages, but geared toward elementary-age students. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

7 p.m. — Fish Tales Lecture: How Did Pacific Salmon Find Their Way to the Door Peninsula
The retired Wisconsin DNR director of the Bureau of Fisheries Management will share firsthand accounts of how and why Pacific salmon were introduced in Wisconsin. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Friday, Feb. 27

2 p.m. — School’s Out Excursion: Sliding
Conditions permitting, this will be an outdoor experience using sleds and kicksleds. Alternative indoor activities about the science of sliding (geared toward elementary students but open to all) will be offered in the lab. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Saturday, Feb. 28

2 p.m. — Leap Year in Nature
Families will explore the math and folklore behind why February usually has 28 days and why we add an extra day every four years (the next leap year arrives in 2028). Participants will also examine how, in most wildlife species, males display and compete while females make the final choice. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Monday, March 2

1:30 p.m. — Monday Movie Matinee: Aldo Leopold — Learning from the Land
A daughter recalls the story of the Leopold family and their Wisconsin “Shack” experience. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

5 to 5:30 p.m. — Volunteer Mixer
New and seasoned volunteers can learn about upcoming opportunities. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Tuesday, March 5

3:30 p.m. — Nature Investigators: Predator/Prey Games
This after-school program will investigate predator-prey relationships through games and simulations. Geared toward elementary students, but learners of all ages are welcome. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Wednesday, March 6

1:30 p.m. — Wandering Wednesday
Join a naturalist-guided hike through the trails of Crossroads. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Nearly half of students in the Luxemburg-Casco School District are meeting advanced standards in mathematics, far outpacing the state average, according to the latest report cards from the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction (DPI).

At Luxemburg-Casco’s middle and intermediate schools, 47.8 percent of students tested at the “Advanced” level in math, compared with a statewide average of 19.9 percent. District leaders attribute the success to an acceleration model that has been in place for more than a decade.

The model began after a committee of teachers reviewed research on best practices for gifted instruction. Instead of offering enrichment alone, the district chose to accelerate qualifying students into higher-grade math coursework earlier in their academic careers.

Using baseline assessments in kindergarten, educators identify students who demonstrate high proficiency. Each year, six to 10 first graders are advanced one grade level in math, learning two grade levels of material simultaneously. By middle school, approximately 50 students complete three years of math curriculum in two years, with some earning up to two high school math credits before entering ninth grade.

Director of Learning Services Mike Snowberry said “it pushes students out of and beyond their comfort zones while maintaining high expectations for growth”.

“83 percent of students achieved at least one year of growth in math this year” Snowberry added. Administrators say consistent curriculum alignment and a shared daily math block across grades have also contributed to the district’s sustained success.

Major upgrades are on the way for Sunset Park, as District 4 Alderman Spencer Gustafson announced new funding and expanded plans for the park’s aging playground.

“The playground is in bad need of replacement and we have a plan in place now to rejuvenate the equipment,” Gustafson said.

The project received a significant boost from an anonymous $180,000 grant along with a $60,000 Gateway to Play grant. Gustafson credited city staff for helping secure the funding.

“Municipal Services Director Mike Barker is tasked to find these grants and he came across the anonymous $180,000 grant for us,” he said.

Originally, the redesigned playground at Sunset Park was geared primarily toward older children, featuring rock climbing elements and zip line attractions. However, after hearing feedback from local families, plans were expanded to include a dedicated play area for children ages 2 to 5, an addition Gustafson said he strongly supported.

When completed, the playground will serve children ages 2 through 12 and older, with ADA-compliant features, Door County–inspired rock structures and turtle-themed play elements reflecting the nearby Little Lake shoreline.

Construction is expected to begin in late June.

With recent playground improvements also completed at Otumba Park, Gustafson called the Sunset Park project part of a broader investment in local families.

“This is a huge win,” he said. “It is awesome to see folks investing their hard earned money into things that just make our city better.”

Living in Wisconsin is truly a unique experience. We are able to appreciate each season for the beauty it brings, along with its challenges. For those who enjoy winter sports, this winter has not necessarily cooperated. Many have chosen to travel to warmer destinations for their recreation. It seems you can’t have a conversation or visit social media without seeing someone who has just returned or is heading off for their winter getaway.

I thought a short message on home security would be in order. While we are very fortunate to live in a community where we do not need to bar our windows or gate our yards for fear of intrusion, we should be aware that crime does occur in Kewaunee County.

We should always be vigilant when it comes to securing our homes and being observant of what goes on in our neighborhoods. If you are planning on taking a vacation, whether for a weekend or the whole season, there are some basic tips to follow. Don’t advertise the fact that you will be gone from your home. I know it is tempting to tell everyone on Facebook about your pending trip or to send photos from that gorgeous beach, but be aware that you may not know everyone who is reading that post. If you are going to the bank or grocery store, again, don’t advertise that you will be gone, just in case someone is listening. Some people you should tell are your neighbors, so they may be extra watchful of your property, as well as law enforcement.

Many people don’t realize you can notify law enforcement that you will be away and request extra patrols during that time. While officers are always looking for suspicious activity, knowing a home should be vacant may be helpful if something appears out of place. Always make sure you either have someone pick up your mail or have the post office hold it until you return. The same goes for newspaper delivery. Nothing signals a vacant home louder than a stack of papers on the front porch. Also, if you will be gone during the winter months, make arrangements for your driveway and sidewalks to be cleared. Again, this maintains the appearance that the residence is occupied.

It is a good idea to let your financial institutions know where you are going and advise them that they may start to see transactions in a different location than usual during your trip. When you return, it may also be worth your time to review your transactions to make sure your credit card or its information hasn’t gone on an adventure without you.

If you are vacationing this winter season, I hope your travels are safe as you take a break from our “Northern” lifestyle.

The Door County Historical Society (DCHS) will host its February 2026 Dine & Discover program on Saturday, Feb. 28, at the Sturgeon Bay Yacht Club. Doors open at 11:30 a.m., lunch will be served at noon, and the featured presentation will follow. Advance  registration is strongly encouraged as seats fill quickly.

Guest speaker Jenna Ferdon, executive director of the Birch Creek Music Performance Center, will present “Birch Creek Music Performance Center: 50 Seasons of Performance-Based Learning.” Ferdon will discuss how Birch Creek grew from a historic County E farm into a nationally recognized music education center and how its performance-based model continues to shape students, professional musicians and the broader Door County community.

As part of the Historical Society’s 100th anniversary celebration, the program will include a special “Highlights of Our History” segment reflecting on a century of preserving and sharing Door County’s heritage.

Attendees will enjoy a plated luncheon along with coffee, water and cookies. A cash bar will also be available.

The cost is $40 per person or $35 for members, with proceeds supporting the DCHS' ongoing preservation and education efforts.

Progress is being made, but Door County Economic Development Corp. Executive Director Michelle Lawrie wants residents to see more housing options in the future.

The DCEDC plans to conduct a second housing study in the coming months, seven years after completing its first in 2019.

The study will assess current housing inventory and development activity, examine factors influencing supply and demand — including employer needs, pricing levels and short-term rentals — and project demand for workforce, affordable, seasonal workforce, senior and market-rate housing in the coming years.

The 2019 study showed Door County was short hundreds of housing units, particularly those considered affordable or workforce housing.

Communities such as Sturgeon Bay have made strides in recent years. This month, the state of Wisconsin approved conceptual plans for the Columbia Corners Apartments, which will offer 60 income-restricted units for families earning 30% to 80% of the area median income.

Despite those gains, Lawrie said addressing housing in Door County should remain a constant part of the area’s economic development discussion.

The DCEDC is accepting proposals for the housing study until 5 p.m. March 18.

The Senior Citizens Agency of Northern Door (SCAND), in partnership with the Door County Community Foundation, has awarded $106,000 in grants during the inaugural cycle of the Bargains Unlimited Charitable Fund, supporting projects that benefit working families and older adults across Northern Door County.

Six local organizations received funding in the first round of grants. These organizations include Cycling Without Age Door County, Door County Medical Center, the Door County YMCA, Sunshine Resources, Unity Hospice, and the Washington Island Community Health Program.

“The committee felt that these projects truly aligned with our mission,” said Ford-Hoffert “These are projects that make a broad impact, helping provide much needed services for working people and seniors in Door County.”

The Bargains Unlimited Charitable Fund builds on a legacy that began in 1995, when the Bargains Unlimited resale store opened to support Northern Door residents.

Applications for the next grant cycle are due by June 22, through the Community Foundation website.

Determining what Kewaunee County will look like in 20 years began this week, with residents’ voices needed in the coming months.

The Kewaunee County Board approved the public participation process for its 20-year comprehensive plan, which is required under state statute, during its regularly scheduled meeting earlier this month.

The county will bring on the Bay-Lake Regional Planning Commission to guide officials through the process, with a goal of having the plan approved by the full County Board by the end of the year.

Before it reaches that stage, the process will include community workshops, public meetings and hearings, open houses and comment periods. The plan must also be approved by the Kewaunee Land and Water Conservation Committee.

It is the first time many of the county’s supervisors, including Land and Water Conservation Committee Chair Aaron Augustian, have gone through the process, which helped preserve some of the county’s farmland from development in the past.

When the time comes, Augustian said it will be important for residents to take advantage of opportunities to make their voices heard.

The Kewaunee County Board also approved a Wisconsin Emergency Management grant and purchases for the Highway and Sheriff’s departments during its meeting Tuesday.

Improving roads and infrastructure is not the only reason visitors are seeing trees being removed at Potawatomi State Park.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources said Friday that additional trees are being cleared to remove obstructions for aircraft traveling to and from Door County Cherryland Airport.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation, the DNR and airport officials are working together to identify and remove trees that may impact the airport’s required clearing areas and avigation easements.

Tree removal has taken place primarily on either side of the park’s entrance road, near the maintenance and service area.

While the entrance road has remained open, the snowmobile trail near the affected area is closed for the duration of the project due to increased traffic.

The DNR anticipates the tree removal project will be completed soon.

It has been a busy winter at Potawatomi State Park, as staff put the final touches on the new visitor center and continue work on a road construction and water line replacement project. That work will keep all campsites, the South Shore shelter and the amphitheater closed through June.

Picture courtesy of Friends of Potawatomi State Park

After previously praising Gov. Tony Evers for his willingness to meet more often and compromise with Republican leaders, state Rep. Joel Kitchens left the Wisconsin State Capitol on Tuesday with a sour taste in his mouth.

The Democratic governor delivered his final State of the State address before a full gallery, setting the stage for 2026 to be the “Year of the Neighbor.” 

Evers used the speech to take a victory lap on accomplishments from the past year, noting that 97% of the bills he signed had bipartisan support.

Eliminating the sales tax on household utility bills, providing Medicaid coverage for telehealth services, and bolstering support for public defenders and district attorneys were among the highlights he mentioned. However, he also placed blame on Republicans for what he described as their shortcomings.

Property tax hikes, domestic violence homicides and aging prisons were among the issues he laid at their feet, along with discussions about FoodShare and health care occurring at the federal level.

Kitchens said it was the most divisive of the 12 State of the State addresses he has attended as a legislator, despite the accomplishments Evers and the Wisconsin Legislature achieved together over the past year.

With the Assembly wrapping up its work in the coming days, Kitchens said there are still some topics lawmakers would like resolved before the session ends.

One bill Kitchens hopes will pass before he leaves is a compromise on the Knowles-Nelson Stewardship Fund. Under the proposal, about $28 million per year would be used to fund the program, with the focus shifting toward maintaining land rather than purchasing new parcels.

Across the aisle, Democrats used Evers’ final address to praise the outgoing governor. State Sen. Jamie Wall highlighted Evers’ success in cutting taxes, delivering job training and paying down state debt.

“I appreciate the governor’s accomplishments, but we can still do more to help regular people struggling with the cost of living,” Wall said. “We all want to lower costs, support our school kids and protect our communities. The only thing stopping us from doing that work is ourselves. It’s a shame we’re about to adjourn nine months before the next election.”

The future of medicine in Door County is a little brighter thanks to community generosity.

Earlier this month, Angel Scholarship Campaign co-chairs Deb Hogan and Dave Resch announced that more than $115,000 was raised to support scholarships for Door County students pursuing health care-related careers.

The total includes a $50,000 matching grant from benefactors Tom Pollock and Chris Gritzmacher, who have issued similar funding challenges in the past.

“Your efforts are enabling the health care field to flourish in our community,” Resch and Hogan said. “Many of these outstanding individuals come back to Door County to practice their skills.”

With Door County’s aging population, Hogan and Resch highlighted the importance of keeping local talent in the area when the campaign launched last fall.

As a result of successful campaigns over the last two years, an endowment for the Angel Scholarship Fund will be established later this year.

Students interested in applying for the scholarship can do so at dcmedical.org before April 1.

State Sen. Andre Jacque wants developers of AI data centers to spend more than a Manitowoc Minute discussing their plans with local communities.

Under Senate Bill 969, introduced by Jacque and Whitewater Republican Sen. Steve Nass, AI data centers would be prohibited from using nondisclosure agreements to conceal details about their proposals.

A public hearing on the bill was held Tuesday, with Jacque pointing out during his testimony to NDAs signed in other parts of the state that kept information from local governments and the residents they represent.

The hearing also included testimony from comedian Charlie Berens, who has been outspoken about the potential impact AI centers could have on communities. Jokes aside, Berens said residents simply want a voice in the process and access to all the information before decisions are made.

Kewaunee County made statewide headlines earlier this year when Wisconsin Watch chronicled Cloverleaf Infrastructure’s attempt to build an AI data center in the town of Carlton, linking the proposal to the potential revival of the Kewaunee Power Station.

Despite being turned away by Carlton and other communities, Cloverleaf Infrastructure has said it remains hopeful it can build a facility somewhere in northeast Wisconsin.

The Door County Sheriff’s Department is urging extra caution for anyone delivering food for DoorDash.

The department announced Thursday that it has received several reports of scammers posing as DoorDash support representatives.

During calls with DoorDash drivers, the scammers have requested login credentials, direct deposit account information and other sensitive details.

DoorDash representatives have also been contacted about the reports.

The Sheriff’s Department advises drivers not to provide login or banking information over the phone. Drivers who receive one of these calls are encouraged to contact DoorDash directly through the company’s app or official website.

You will soon see the familiar shades of Nicolet National Bank’s green and white in Iowa.

Nicolet Bankshares Inc. announced Wednesday that it has completed its merger with Iowa City-based MidWestOne Financial Group Inc., adding more than 50 locations in Iowa to its brand and digital banking platform by August 2026.

The merger creates one of the largest community-owned banks in the country, with pro forma total assets of $15.3 billion, deposits of $13.1 billion and loans of $11.3 billion. Once fully integrated, Nicolet National Bank will have 110 branches, primarily across the Upper Midwest.

Nicolet National Bank has several locations in Door and Kewaunee counties.

“We are excited to announce the acquisition of MidWestOne and welcome their employees, customers and shareholders to Nicolet,” said Mike Daniels, chairman, president and CEO of Nicolet, when the merger was first announced in October. “We view the people at MidWestOne as true kindred spirits in our approach to serving customers, communities and employees. They have been stalwarts of the community for over 90 years, and we intend to be great stewards of that legacy.”

Daniels added the acquisition will make the bank stronger as it approaches its 25th anniversary.

The move follows other recent acquisitions, including Community Investors Bank in 2021 and Charter Bankshares in 2022.

Reconstruction work will begin in late February on the main wooden boardwalk between Piers D and J at the Sister Bay Marina, prompting a temporary closure of that section of the waterfront through the end of March.

Marina Manager Dave Lienau said the project is designed to improve safety, durability, and the overall waterfront experience. The work will involve removing and rebuilding the existing dock structure, making the area inaccessible to the public during construction.

Lienau noted the boardwalk is a heavily used route for both residents and visitors. “We have a lot of people who walk their dogs down here,” he said. Because of the scope of the project, he emphasized safety concerns. “The area will be under construction and very dangerous, so you should observe the signs, and stay away from the construction area.”

The Marina is asking the public to follow posted signage, respect temporary barriers, and avoid entering construction zones while work is underway.

Once completed, the upgraded boardwalk is expected to provide a refreshed and improved space for the community to enjoy. Updates and additional information will be available on the Sister Bay Marina website.

A new regional partnership is strengthening food security in Door County by delivering affordable, locally grown potatoes, and other produce, directly to area food pantries.

Through a collaboration led by UW–Madison Extension, pantries in Door and Kewaunee counties are pooling resources to increase buying power and cut transportation costs. Extension staff member Laura Apfelbeck has helped connect rural pantries with growers to create a sustainable, long-term distribution model.

The effort, known as “The Spud Run,” launched after funding for the USDA-backed Wisconsin Local Food Purchase Assistance Program ended last January, leaving many rural pantries without a consistent source of fresh produce.

“If you are dependent on a food pantry and the pantry consistently doesn’t have food, how do you plan a meal?” Apfelbeck said. Seeking reliable options, she added, “I wrote to the Wisconsin Potato Growers Association to say that I’m looking for a consistent supply of produce that has a long shelf life.”

Apfelbeck identified Alsum Farms & Produce as a supplier willing to provide 50-pound bags of russet potatoes, and deliver to Manitowoc. Because Alsum does not deliver directly to Door or Kewaunee counties, Grow It Forward stepped in to transport the potatoes north. “Part of Grow It Forward’s mission is to become a method of bringing more food beyond just their pantry,” Apfelbeck said.

Rural pantries face added challenges. They sometimes also lack the proper loading docks or personnel to complete larger deliveries. “Not everyone has the staff, some pantries only have a volunteer pantry manager,” Apfelbeck noted. 

Despite those hurdles, Apfelbeck says that the collaborative model is helping ensure fresh, quality food reaches families across the peninsula for years to come.

Animal lovers across Door County are invited to register now for the 2026 Pet Walk, an annual fundraiser supporting the lifesaving work of the Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS). The Door County Pet Walk is scheduled for Saturday, August 8th at the YMCA-Peterson Park Sturgeon Bay, one month earlier than previous years.

Pet Walk is more than just a walk; it’s an outdoor celebration with a purpose. Each registration helps provide medical care, shelter and vital support services to more than 65,000 animals and families served by WHS each year. WHS is encouraging early sign-ups, with participants able to save 50% off day-of registration fees through limited-time early bird pricing.

According to Corey Viars, WHS Green Bay and Door County Campus Media Specialist, this year’s event comes with a notable change. “It’s actually a new date for WHS. The walk is usually in September, but we decided to move it one month before for various reasons,” Viars said.

Registration includes the exclusive 2026 Pet Walk T-shirt featuring this year’s winning community-selected design, along with entry to a festival atmosphere filled with activities for all ages. “We’ll also have a bunch of other stuff there, like agility courses, games for kids, a vendor village, and a lot of other fun stuff going on,” Viars said. “We will even have a pet costume contest.”

Participants can bring their social dogs, and even adventurous cats, or you can attend without a pet. Viars also encourages walkers to fundraise, with incentives available for those who reach donation milestones. Every dollar raised stays local to support animals and families served by WHS campuses.

“Pet Walk Door County is our largest walk, and our largest community fundraiser that we have at the Door County WHS campus,” Viars added.

Registration details and additional information are available through the Wisconsin Humane Society’s website.

The Door County YMCA is wrapping up its Winter 1 session and preparing to launch Winter 2 classes beginning Monday, Feb. 23. Registration is now open for both members and non-members, with YMCA officials encouraging early sign-up as popular programs tend to fill quickly.

Highlighted in this week’s Y-Wednesday podcast are several Winter 2 offerings designed to support overall wellness. Yoga for Pain Relief will be held Tuesdays from 10:30 to 11:15 a.m. The slow-paced class focuses on nervous system regulation and gentle movement to help reduce chronic pain and tension. Beginner Meditation, offered Wednesdays from 9:30 to 10:45 a.m., introduces participants to the fundamentals of mindful meditation and practical stress-reduction techniques.

In addition to these featured classes, the YMCA offers a wide variety of early morning and after-work fitness options with staggered start times to accommodate busy schedules. Choices range from high-intensity RIP and POWER classes to Tai Chi and Pilates, providing options for all fitness levels and interests.

Sarah Gavin, Healthy Living Director at the Sturgeon Bay YMCA, said classes fill quickly and encourages community members to register soon. She also noted an ongoing need for swim instructors and lifeguards. YMCA training and certification classes are available. “More instructors and more lifeguards means we can open up more classes for the kiddos,” Gavin said.

More information is available at the Door County YMCA website or on this week’s Y-Wednesday podcast with Adam Collins.

Voters in District 17 turned out Tuesday for the only primary race on the Door Peninsula, narrowing the field in the contest for a seat on the Door County Board.

Incumbent Supervisor Bob Bultman led the three-way race with 81 votes. Challenger Dave Smith followed closely behind with 71 votes, while Mariah Goode received 59 votes.

With the top two vote-getters advancing, Bultman and Smith will move on to the April 7 spring election, where voters will decide who will represent District 17 on the county board.

The District 17 race was the only primary contest in Door County this cycle, with all other local races set to be decided directly in the spring election.

The April 7 election will determine the final outcome of the District 17 seat.

The Door County Public Health Department has released a snapshot of some of the factors that affect everyday life in the county.

In collaboration with Door County Medical Center, the UW Extension office and United Way of Door County, the department and its Healthy Door County initiative released its 2025 Community Health Assessment.

The assessment is based on responses from nearly 1,000 community members and five listening sessions held throughout the county. The document, which is required of local health departments every five years, explores nearly every facet of life on the peninsula, from access to education and health care quality to economic stability and environmental factors.

By examining these social determinants of health, the organizations can develop a plan to address potential issues together. Housing, jobs with livable wages, child care, the aging population and opportunities to socialize were identified as priority areas during the survey process.

More than 45% of respondents said safe and affordable housing was their top concern, especially in an area where the cost of living is about 25% higher than in other parts of the state and some families spend about one-third of their income on child care.

Public Health Strategist Shauna Blackledge says the Community Health Assessment helps them understand the factors that may affect a person’s mental health.

Blackledge says now that the Community Health Assessment has been completed and released, they will work with community partners to develop plans to address the concerns identified. You can read the Community Health Assessment by clicking the link.

The sight of paczkis at your local grocery store on Tuesday will quickly be replaced by ashes on the foreheads of your friends, family and neighbors on Wednesday.

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent, the 40-day liturgical season when Christians observe a time of spiritual reflection before the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ.

Pastor Joel McKenney of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church believes the pace of family life has made it hard for many to fully participate in the Lenten season, whether through special services, community meals or other activities. He hopes families take time to reflect on the sacrifice of Jesus Christ and what it means for their sins to be forgiven.

The area’s Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod congregations, which include several in Door and Kewaunee counties, will once again hold their Lenten sermon series, during which pastors rotate among churches to share their messages. You can consult with your local churches to see when they are hosting Ash Wednesday services.

Lent concludes with Easter on April 5.

The next 40 days will also feature holidays for other world religions, including Islam’s Ramadan, Feb. 17–March 19, and Judaism’s Passover, April 1–9.

Southern Door fifth-graders have raised thousands of dollars every year for more than a half-century for next month’s CP Telethon, but your donation means a little bit more to Aksel Sorenson. His big brother, Isaac, relied on the physical and occupational therapy services of the CP Center before he died in 2022.

The impact of the CP Center went beyond what was done for Isaac. Aksel says the CP Center helped him and his parents, Terry and Toni, become stronger advocates. He adds that seeing the impact the CP Center had on Isaac and his family — along with the lives Isaac touched at Southern Door — has made it easier for him to ask for support for this year’s CP Telethon.

The CP Telethon also means a lot to fifth-grade teacher Bridget Spude. Not only has she helped fifth graders reach their fundraising goals for the past 10 years, she also participated as a student 10 years ago. She says it has been a great partnership.

You can support Aksel and his fifth-grade classmates’ efforts by clicking the link. The CP Telethon will take place March 7 and 8, including a Sunday appearance by Southern Door students on WBAY between 9 and 9:30 a.m.

Helping your kids alleviate or eliminate debt later in life begins with a little financial planning now. According to credit bureau Experian, the average member of Generation Z, ages 18-28, carries $34,328 in debt, up from $31,856 in 2024. The numbers increase to $132,280 for millennials, ages 29-44, and $158,105 for Generation X, ages 45-60, as they add mortgages and children’s college education to the mix.

To address this, the Trump administration introduced new tax-advantaged, IRA-style investment accounts in which children born between 2025 and 2028 can receive a $1,000 initial deposit from the federal government. Parents are encouraged to deposit up to $5,000 annually into the “Trump Account,” which could grow to as much as $742,000 by age 27.

Leslie Boden of Money Management Counselors in Sturgeon Bay says there are many ways to help your children save for their future, but there are many factors to consider whether you choose the Trump accounts, a 529 college savings plan or another strategy.

Boden says she works with students to give them a better grasp of their finances, especially in a world that is becoming increasingly cashless.

According to a Yahoo Finance report, 61% of Generation Z adults have less than $1,000 in savings, with 31% having less than $100.

Without a little help from Mother Nature, you might as well start putting your snowmobiles, sleds, skates and skis into storage.

Temperatures were in the 40s for much of the weekend, decimating the snow and ice that had been in place for weeks. As a result, Sturgeon Bay, Washington Island and Sister Bay have been forced to close, along with the north and southeast zones of the Door County Snowmobile Trail System — the only segments in Door and Kewaunee counties to be open for any period this winter.

A pair of recent ice rescues near Washington Island has put some of those activities in question as well depending on the location and the conditions.

In Kewaunee County, Winter Park was able to stay open for skiing and tubing over the weekend, but Kewaunee County Promotions and Recreation Director Dave Myers says they are monitoring conditions closely to see if they will be able to open this weekend. If they can’t, it would be an earlier-than-usual closure for them.

Temperatures are expected to stay above freezing until the weekend, with small chances of snow possible Saturday and Sunday.

A pair of ordinances first introduced earlier this month will receive a second reading Tuesday at the Sturgeon Bay Common Council’s regularly scheduled meeting.

One of the ordinances would establish permanent zoning for parcels on the city’s west side that were recently annexed into the city from the Town of Nasewaupee. Some residents spoke out against the zoning changes, hoping to keep their properties zoned commercial (C-1) rather than residential.

Exceptions were made on a case-by-case basis when future plans suggested alternative zoning would be more appropriate.

The council will also receive a second reading of an ordinance amending the city’s Historic Preservation Code, which Mayor David Ward said earlier this month is an update that has been needed for more than a decade.

Contracts for the city’s asphalt and concrete program will also be discussed when the Sturgeon Bay Common Council meets Tuesday at 6 p.m. at City Hall.

Your kids may find it harder to log onto some social media platforms but easier to cope with some of the mental health challenges that can come with them following the passage of several bills out of committee last week. State Sen. Andre Jacque last week celebrated three bills created from discussions held by the Speaker’s Task Force on Protecting Kids.

Legislation requiring app stores and social media companies to verify users’ ages and enforce age-based restrictions and warning labels for explicit content were among the bills passed to go before the full Assembly and Senate.

According to the Johns Hopkins School of Medicine, nearly 40% of children ages 8 to 12 use social media, despite most platforms requiring a minimum age of 13. Jacque said the technology that kids are being exposed to is constantly evolving and he hopes these bills helps them catch up.

Jacque also said he is pleased that bills addressing adoption education in schools, revolving loan programs for erosion control, and compassionate care visits for hospital and long-term care patients were also passed out of committee.

If you live in Wards 1 or 2 in Baileys Harbor, or Ward 2 in Jacksonport, grab your photo ID and head to the polls.

The race for Door County Board Supervisory District 17 is the only primary taking place on the peninsula, with the remaining races to be decided April 7.

District 17 Supervisor Bob Bultman is being challenged by Dave Smith and Mariah Goode for his seat on the Door County Board. The top two vote-getters will advance to the spring election ballot.

Wisconsin voters are required to show photo identification at the polls, such as a driver’s license, passport, or a state, military, tribal or student ID card.

Visitors should not be surprised if parts of Potawatomi State Park begin to look like a construction zone this week.

Preliminary work has begun on the park’s campground road resurfacing and waterline replacement project near South Norway Road. Tree removal started earlier this month.

According to the Friends of Potawatomi State Park, utility work on Shoreline Road is expected to begin Monday.

Park Superintendent Erin Brown-Stender warned of the project’s impact last summer, saying it will affect the park’s campsites, accessible cabin, South Shore shelter and amphitheater through June 2026.

Because of the project, visitors cannot reserve campsites, the shelter or the amphitheater until June 30, though she hoped the timeline can be moved up.

Visitors are asked to watch for and follow signage marking trail and road closures.

Construction is also ongoing at the park’s new visitor center. While the new $2.1 million building is not yet open to the public, it is offering weekend drive-up window service only.

With the Winter Olympics now underway, interest in cross-country skiing is gaining momentum across Door County.

Local ski trails have seen a noticeable uptick in visitors as residents and tourists alike draw inspiration from elite athletes competing on the world stage. At Crossroads at Big Creek in Sturgeon Bay, trails have been especially busy following televised Olympic coverage of cross-country events.

Whenever cross-country skiing takes center stage during the Winter Games, more people are motivated to try the sport themselves. The international spotlight serves as a reminder that the same activity seen in competition is something local residents can experience close to home on Door County trails.

The sport appeals to a wide range of ages and skill levels, offering both a relaxed outdoor recreation option and a demanding full-body workout for more competitive skiers. Favorable snow conditions this season have also played a key role in boosting participation, providing well-groomed, scenic trails for newcomers and seasoned skiers alike.

While the Olympics may spark the initial excitement, the accessibility, affordability, and natural beauty of local trail systems are what keep people returning throughout the winter. With miles of groomed trails across Door County, local nature centers and parks expect interest in cross-country skiing to remain strong long after the Olympic flame is extinguished.

The Belgian Heritage Center in Brussels is among the many local organizations closely following developments involving one of the area’s most well-known immigrants.

Last month, Bishop David Ricken formally recognized Belgian immigrant Adele Brice as a Servant of God, the first of several steps toward sainthood.

During the Great Peshtigo Fire of 1871, Brice gathered area residents at the chapel and prayed for Mary’s protection from the blaze. While the fire destroyed much of the surrounding area, the grounds where the National Shrine of Our Lady of Champion now stands remained largely untouched.

Belgian Heritage Center President Joe Alexander said it is a great opportunity to complement the Shrine’s storytelling surrounding Brice.

While the Belgian Heritage Center is closed until May, visitors can watch a video it produced about Brice below. The video includes bilingual elements in English and Walloon and features a personal story from Julian Romuald, who recounts being cured of a large childhood tumor after visiting the shrine.

The annual Fire & Ice Festival took over downtown Sturgeon Bay on Saturday, with a full slate of winter-themed activities.

The day featured ice carving competitions, free Door County Trolley rides, art displays, live music, and plenty of food and drink specials in shops and eateries. Professional and amateur ice carvers began transforming sponsored blocks of ice into intricate sculptures, with crowds gathering to watch the artistry in action.

Unseasonably warm weather has been a major Fire & Ice 2026 storyline. Temperatures climbed into the upper 30s to low 40s throughout the late morning and into the afternoon. Well above ideal freezing conditions, causing some ice to soften and become difficult to work with. Ice artists found that time was of the essence and that shaded areas held up better and carved on, despite the drips and drops.

While the warmer weather complicated the ice carving process, many attendees welcomed the break from typical February shiver. The sunshine and milder temperatures made it easier to stroll downtown and enjoy the festivities, with conditions that are usually overwhelmingly embraced by the community.

At Crossroads, we’ve been experiencing a bit of weather whiplash this winter — a thaw one day, sleet rattling the windows the next. In Door County, that’s hardly surprising.

In fact, more than 25 years ago — several years before Crossroads at Big Creek became a nonprofit organization — when the land was still the 60-acre school forest of the Sturgeon Bay School District, rapidly fluctuating weather helped inspire the creation of a nature center.

The Sturgeon Bay Education Foundation recognized that if conditions could shift from mild to bitter in a matter of hours — as they often do — students needed a place where they could step out of the elements and continue learning.

A central feature of the plan was a stunning fireplace built of Door County stone. Around that same time, a local farmer was subdividing his property, which meant dismantling an old stone wall. He invited the school to collect the rocks.

So, a group of school employees and members of the Sturgeon Bay Education Foundation board borrowed a couple of trucks and headed out. I was easily the least efficient member of the team because, for me, the outing was a fossil hunt.

I knew there would be many weather swings in the years ahead, so during construction, I asked the mason to place fossil-rich stones at about kids’-eye level. If we were going to build with ancient geologic history, we might as well make it accessible.

On Saturday, Feb. 21, at 2 p.m., our Saturday Science program will feature an Indoor Fossil Hunt. If we get a thaw, we may venture outside to search for fossils strategically placed in the entry garden. But regardless of the weather, learners of all ages will discover and identify examples of Silurian fossils indoors.

Each participating family will receive a free fossil identification pamphlet.

So why do we have fossils here?

The Door Peninsula is made of rock formed roughly 430 million years ago, during the Silurian Period. At that time, the land that would become Wisconsin was located near — and at times slightly south of — the equator. Our region lay beneath a warm, shallow tropical sea.

That sea teemed with life: solitary and colonial corals, brachiopods (often nicknamed “lamp shells”) and early relatives of modern squid. When these creatures died, their hard shells and skeletons settled into lime-rich sediment on the sea floor.

Over immense spans of time, as seas advanced and retreated, these sediments were buried, compacted and hardened into many layers of limestone.

But the rock we see today is not limestone — it is dolostone (also called dolomite rock). I sometimes say dolostone is like limestone on steroids: a little stronger, a little more resistant. The difference, however, isn’t steroids — it’s magnesium.

After the limestone formed, magnesium-rich fluids moved through the buried rock, replacing some of the calcium in the mineral calcite (calcium carbonate) with magnesium to form the mineral dolomite (calcium magnesium carbonate).

Geologists aptly call this transformation dolomitization. Scientists agree on the chemistry but continue to study exactly when, and under what conditions, those magnesium-rich fluids altered vast stretches of the original limestone.

The resulting dolostone is generally more resistant to erosion than pure limestone. That durability helped the Door Peninsula endure — and be sculpted by — the repeated advances of Ice Age glaciers that ultimately shaped the Great Lakes basin.

Stone tells the deep-time story. Fish tell the modern one.

More than 400 million years after tropical seas covered this region, the newly formed Great Lakes became a freshwater paradise for fish. But that story took a dramatic turn in the 20th century, when invasive species such as sea lamprey and alewife nearly devastated the lake ecosystem.

Next week, we will host our next Fish Tales Lecture, and we are honored to welcome Lee Kernen, retired Wisconsin DNR director of the Bureau of Fisheries Management.

In his presentation, “How Did Pacific Salmon Find Their Way to Door County?” he will offer a firsthand account of one of the most consequential management decisions in Great Lakes history.

From tropical seas to Ice Age glaciers to modern fisheries science, Door County’s story spans nearly half a billion years.

And on a bitter winter day, you can see a piece of that history without even stepping outside — just look at kids’-eye level at the stones of the Collins Learning Center fireplace.

Upcoming Programs

Saturday, Feb. 21

2 p.m. Saturday Science: Indoor Fossil Hunt
Learn about and hunt for fossils in the indoor stonework of the Collins Learning Center. Each participating family will receive a free Door County fossil pamphlet. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Monday, Feb. 24

1:30 p.m. Movie Matinee: Nature: Flyways
Join a flock of bird-loving experts and enthusiastic citizen scientists as they take on the exciting challenge of understanding — and helping save — our amazing shorebirds. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Tuesday, Feb. 24

3:30 p.m. Environmental Exploration: Science of Sliding
Find out why sleds, kicksleds, ice skates and animals move across the snow as fast — or as far — as they do. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Wednesday, Feb. 25

1:30 p.m. Wandering Wednesday
Join a naturalist-guided hike through the trails of Crossroads. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Thursday, Feb. 26

2 p.m. Schools Out Excursion: Family Fun in the Lab
Each lab table will be set up with safe (but potentially messy) educational activities that will be fun for the whole family. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

7 p.m. Fish Tales Lecture: “How Did Pacific Salmon Find Their Way to Door County?”
Lee Kernen, retired Wisconsin DNR director of the Bureau of Fisheries Management, will give a firsthand account of the introduction of salmon in Lake Michigan.

Emergency crews responded to an ice rescue incident approximately 1,000 feet from the Washington Island Ferry Dock after a vehicle broke through the ice Saturday.

Authorities report that a car went through the ice in Detroit Harbor. The vehicle was occupied by two individuals at the time of the incident. Both occupants were able to exit the vehicle safely and were standing on top of the car when responders arrived on scene.

Rescue personnel worked to ensure the individuals were brought to safety. No additional information on injuries or the cause of the incident is immediately available.

Door and Kewaunee counties should plan ahead for Presidents Day on Monday, Feb. 16, as many government offices and services will be closed for the federal holiday.

Most federal, state and local government offices in Door County and Kewaunee County will be closed, including municipal and county buildings, courts and Department of Motor Vehicles locations. Post offices operated by the USPS will be closed, and there will be no regular mail delivery. Bank branches are also expected to close for the day. In addition,  public schools across both counties will not be in session due to mid-semester break.

However, many private businesses will remain open. Retailers, grocery stores and big-box stores are expected to operate under normal hours. Most local restaurants, bars and shops throughout Sturgeon Bay, Fish Creek, Algoma and Kewaunee will also be open, though some may have modified holiday hours.

Shipping services through UPS and FedEx are expected to operate with normal or slightly modified schedules. Many parks and area attractions will remain open as well.

The fight over immigration enforcement across the country will likely be felt along the shores of Door County for the foreseeable future after members of Congress left Washington, D.C., without a deal to fund the Department of Homeland Security past Friday.

According to The Hill, the funding impasse is expected to affect the Transportation Security Administration, the Federal Emergency Management Agency and the Coast Guard more than it will Immigration and Customs Enforcement and Customs and Border Protection.

Democrats’ demands for reforms to ICE in the wake of multiple fatal shootings during immigration enforcement operations are at the center of the stalled efforts.

On Thursday, U.S. Sen. Tammy Baldwin said that ICE agents need to be held to the same standards as local law enforcement, which she said should include having warrants to make arrests and dropping the use of masks.

“Today, we had a choice: give ICE a blank check to continue wreaking havoc on Americans, or say no and say that we need to do better,” Baldwin said. “I know better is possible, but the White House and Republicans need to get serious and listen to the American people who are demanding ICE be reined in.”

Republican U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson said at his tele-town hall earlier this month that defunding DHS and ICE would be a mistake.

According to Fox News, the U.S. Coast Guard will likely see reduced operations during the shutdown because it is the only military branch under DHS rather than the Department of Defense. It could also result in suspended pay for the Coast Guard’s 56,000 active-duty, reserve and civilian personnel.

That number includes the nearly 70 U.S. Coast Guard members who are part of the three commands based in Sturgeon Bay.

There has been a great deal of activity surrounding the advent of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and while it may bring a wealth of knowledge and the ability to collate existing data at mind-numbing speeds, we unfortunately have also seen its application in the perpetration of fraud and other criminal activity.

A great place to start is with a clear understanding of what AI actually is, and even more importantly, what it is not.

Artificial Intelligence is defined as a branch of computer science that enables machines to simulate human cognition, such as learning, reasoning, problem-solving and perception. There are two types of this technology known as “Narrow AI” and “General AI.” For the most part, what we have seen thus far are applications that fall within the Narrow AI realm — specialized tasks made possible through the vast and expedient collection and collation of pre-existing information and data.

This is how it generates everything from imagery to mechanical function with limited human intervention. It is not creating anything, but rather producing a desired outcome through the rapid processing of existing information.

Of course, this technology has some great applications, but as with any technology, it can be manipulated for both good and evil. That same technology that helps create amazing images and content has been weaponized to produce false, albeit convincing, images that can lure the unsuspecting into exploitation on various levels.

Everything from still images to videos, and even voice replication, is now possible, requiring each and every one of us to question what is before us. Unfortunately, our default when confronted with information must now be suspicion. It is no longer a matter of “trust but verify,” but rather “question and verify.”

Just as with any technology, it is to be mastered and not to master us. It can and should be utilized in areas where mechanical or data functions can be expedited. However, we cross a line when such technology is used to supplement human creativity or take the place of human interaction.

This technology, no matter its benefits, lacks human consciousness. It possesses no soul. It has no sense of morality. It is, and always will be, “artificial.”

I have had many advise me to utilize AI in the creation of my articles. That would be an insult to the gifts I have been given, and to those teachers who instilled in me the effective use and application of the English language.

While it may be easier or faster, the words would not be mine, and I have no tolerance for, nor temptation toward, anything but authenticity. Every week for almost two decades, I have sat in contemplation, many times struggling to find the right words as I craft my sentences and paragraphs.

Much like plastic surgery is to the body, so is Artificial Intelligence to the creative mind. It may look better, or even seem like an improvement on natural attributes, but in the end, it lacks the very things that make us unique.

I’ll take the struggle that comes with the process. I’ll take my perfect imperfections over a manufactured or manipulated existence.

I will strive for the application of the best type of A.I. — that being, Authentic Intelligence.

Independent bookstores once thought to be fading in the wake of online retailers and the American Booksellers Association reports a different story. Since 2020, independently owned bookstores have grown by 70% nationwide, with 422 new stores opening in 2025 alone. What seemed destined for decline has instead become a story of renewal.

“We as an independently owned bookstore have seen an increase in both customers and business,” said Dani Touscher of Novel Bay Books. “The Midwestern Independent Booksellers Association has seen the increase as well. It’s been very cool to see.”

The resurgence reflects more than a love of reading. Shoppers are prioritizing local businesses, community connection and in-person experiences. Independent bookstores have evolved beyond a simple retail model, becoming gathering spaces for events, discussions and celebrations tailored to their communities.

In downtown Sturgeon Bay, Novel Bay Books exemplifies this shift. The store is hosting a Galentine’s celebration on Feb. 15, a monthly silent book club on Feb. 18, and an author meet-and-greet with Ann Heyse on Feb. 20 at 5:30 p.m. 

Safer events, new trails and facility enhancements are among the improvements visitors will see throughout the peninsula thanks to local room tax dollars and Destination Door County.

The tourism organization announced nearly $350,000 in grants Friday through its Community Investment Fund. The seven grants, which ranged from $8,000 to $100,000, will support projects across the peninsula.

The largest grant was awarded to Door County to support the purchase of a countywide, mobile, crash-rated barrier system to protect events throughout the area, similar to what the Sturgeon Bay Police Department used for the first time last year.

The Door County Land Trust also received a $100,000 grant to support the creation of a new shorefront nature preserve, providing visitors and residents alike with a new point of public access for hiking, skiing, hunting and fishing.

Washington Island-based Gathering Ground received $66,000 to construct a pavilion, trails and a new food processing station to expand its agritourism operation.

The Peninsula School of Art was awarded $40,000 to make its facility more accessible with ADA-compliant sidewalks and campus pathways, while the town of Liberty Grove received $11,942 for the purchase and installation of a floating launch pier at Ellison Bay Marina. The Belgian Heritage Center garnered an $8,000 grant to make improvements to its historic burial ground.

The Greater Escarpment Organization of Door County received matching funds from the Door County Community Foundation to secure $36,500 to install outdoor exhibits on its property in Liberty Grove.

Interim Destination Door County CEO Jon Jarosh said the latest recipients show how tourism can directly support the places that make the area special.

The Destination Door County Community Investment Fund has contributed more than $3.4 million to 66 projects since May 2023. Area organizations and municipalities have until March 23 to apply for the next round of grants. Jarosh expects that by the end of the year, more than $5 million will have been distributed through the program.

The Brussels-Union-Gardner Fire Department said goodbye to one of its own Thursday after announcing that longtime member Ryan Chaudoir lost his battle with cancer.

The Brussels dairy farmer joined the BUG Fire Department in 2004, serving the community for more than 20 years before stepping away from the service due to ongoing cancer treatments.

BUG Fire Chief Curt Vandertie called Chaudoir “a dedicated firefighter, loving husband, dad, brother, son and the most genuine friend anyone could ever hope for” in a tribute he posted Thursday night.

“His contagious smile, his kind laughter and helping hand are forever ingrained in us,” Vandertie wrote. “Ryan’s passion in his faith and the prayerful example he set for everyone made us better every day we knew him.”

More details about services for Chaudoir will be announced in the coming days.

The Baileys Harbor Community Association will spotlight Door County’s room tax and its impact on the local economy during the next Talk of the Town session on Thursday, February 26, at Lake Fire Winery.

The program will feature staff from Destination Door County (DDC) explaining how room tax dollars are generated, how they are allocated under state and local guidelines, and how the funds are reinvested in the community.

Interim Destination Door County CEO Jon Jarosh said the organization welcomes the opportunity to clarify how the tax works. “We always love to talk about, and explain how the tax works,” Jarosh said. “What those dollars are used for, who collects them, and how they are benefiting the community.”

Jarosh noted the room tax is paid by visitors staying in local lodging properties. “It’s one of those few taxes that locals and residents don’t pay,” he said.

He added the presentation will provide additional transparency about the organization’s role. “We will do a deep dive on how we at the DDC utilize the tax dollars we are entrusted with,” Jarosh said.

The event begins with food and socializing at 5:30 p.m., followed by the presentation. A question-and-answer session will follow.

More information is available at The Town of Baileys Harbor’s website.

The Door County Sheriff’s Office is investigating a fatal farming accident that occurred on Thursday in the Town of Forestville.

Emergency personnel from the Southern Door Fire Department, Southern Door Emergency Responders, Door County Emergency Services, and the Door County Sheriff’s Office responded shortly after 3:30 p.m. to S&S Jerseyland Dairy, 7900 Old Elm Road.

When they arrived, they found a man dead, trapped underneath a piece of farm equipment.

No further details were released. 

A week after showing its support for Sevastopol third-grader Violet Tanck at a boys basketball game, the Gibraltar community is hoping to do the same for one of its own.

Students at Gibraltar Secondary School have organized Kat’s Full Court Fight Against Lymphoma, an event supporting 2018 Gibraltar graduate and current Northern Sky Theater volunteer coordinator Kathleen Jackson.

Jackson launched a GoFundMe page more than a year ago after being diagnosed with Hodgkin lymphoma, a type of cancer that attacks the body’s lymph nodes.

Gibraltar seniors Giovanni Mercier, Josie Martin and Celeste Ashley have taken on the task of organizing the event, which will take place during the school’s boys basketball game against Sturgeon Bay on Feb. 17.

The trio has attended similar events in the past, including efforts to support the families of former Gibraltar student Braden Sitte. They say it has been a learning experience, but also a gratifying one.

The evening begins at 5 p.m. before the JV game and will include silent auctions, raffle baskets, a bake sale and concessions from area businesses.

Door County has been exceptionally generous at basketball-centered events this season. Before raising more than $17,000 on Monday to support Tanck, a matchup between Sevastopol and Sturgeon Bay raised more than $12,000 for the Butch and Ramirez families and collected another $2,900 for DoorCancer, a local organization that helps fund families on their own cancer journeys.

Picture from Kathleen Jackson's GoFundMe page

While you may be celebrating temperatures hitting 40 degrees over the next few days, your neighbors who enjoy ice fishing and other winter sports activities may not be as excited.

The National Weather Service is predicting temperatures of 36 degrees and above from Friday through next Wednesday.

Coupled with windy days on the horizon — including gusts of 30 to 40 miles per hour Tuesday — the agency says the risk of ice floes could increase as the ice thins and potentially breaks apart.

Door County Emergency Management Director Jeb Saelens says when he took on the job in 2023, there had been several ice rescues, but there was no good way to alert outdoor enthusiasts about dangers offshore.

Saelens warns that as winter gives way to spring, conditions on land and on the ice can change dramatically.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources recommends carrying basic safety gear, dressing warmly in layers, heading out with friends or family, and avoiding inlets, outlets, or narrows that may have a current, which can lead to thin ice.

Door County Emergency Services is moving forward with plans to build a new mid-county ambulance station intended to significantly improve emergency response times for residents and visitors.

Officials discussed the proposal at a recent county board meeting, highlighting the need for better coverage in the central portion of the county, an area currently served only from stations at Brussels, Sister Bay, Washington Island and Sturgeon Bay.

Emergency Services Director Aaron LeClair said the project comes after extensive review.

“After quite a long bit of time in reviewing the need for a middle ambulance station, we  made a recommendation to build a new station, to build a stand-alone station in West Jacksonport,” LeClair said.

The proposed location is near the intersection of County Highways T and V between Jacksonport and Egg Harbor. LeClair said “the new site would help reduce long waits for ambulances in the middle of the peninsula”, where response times often exceed acceptable standards. A centrally located station could bring many calls within targeted service windows.

The department has already set aside approximately $1.9 million for the project, which is expected to cost about $2.3 million overall, with additional funding to be budgeted in coming years.

Before construction can begin, the county must approve moving forward with securing property for the site.

“On Tuesday, the 24th of February, the full County Board will take up a resolution to authorize me to start pursuing property in the area,” LeClair said.

LeClair noted the project has been discussed for more than a decade and emphasized that a centrally located station would strengthen the county’s emergency medical capabilities as call volumes continue to rise.

A shipwreck near Baileys Harbor that had gone by a different name for more than 20 years has now been added to the National Register of Historic Places.

The Wisconsin Historical Society announced this week that the Joseph Cochrane shipwreck was placed on the National Register of Historic Places after being added to the State Register last May. The Joseph Cochrane was initially placed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003 under the name Christina Nilsson.

According to the Wisconsin Historical Society, additional information gathered from resources unavailable at the time showed the schooner was misidentified in its original nomination.

The Joseph Cochrane was launched in 1856 to transport bulk cargo and general merchandise until it sank in October 1870. The ship ran aground on a reef near the harbor, and after three days of trying to save the vessel, the crew abandoned it in early November 1870.

As for the real Christina Nilsson shipwreck, the Wisconsin Historical Society says it has been identified nearby and is eligible to join the Joseph Cochrane on the National and State registers of historic places.

A 34-year-old Sister Bay man suffered minor injuries and was cited for operating under the influence and inattentive driving after a single-vehicle crash in the Town of Liberty Grove.

The crash occurred on State Highway 42 near Badger Road shortly before 11:30 p.m. Tuesday night.

According to an accident report provided by the Door County Sheriff’s Department, the man was driving eastbound when he went off the roadway and into a group of trees. The vehicle came to rest after striking several trees.

The man was not transported to a hospital for his injuries. The vehicle was towed after sustaining significant damage.

Alcohol use is suspected, though the accident report notes results are still pending.

Sturgeon Bay is inviting artists to submit proposals for a new outdoor sculpture to be featured along the city’s East Waterfront Promenade as part of its Biennial Public Art Placement program.

The Sturgeon Bay Local Arts Board has opened a call for art seeking an original piece to be displayed in a landscaped space along the popular waterfront walkway. “Basically there is a two year rotating art piece (sculpture) that we are looking to install on the East side promenade,” said Stephanie Gomez, Municipal Services Administrative Assistant for the City of Sturgeon Bay.

The selected sculpture will be installed on a two-year loan and placed in a highly visible area along the Walkable Sturgeon Bay route. Gomez noted that the new artwork will continue the city’s rotating public art tradition. “The new installation will replace ‘Lady Leani’ by Teresa Lind which we are moving to the West side,” she said.

 “Submissions are due by April 3rd and then the board will make its decision at April's monthly meeting,” Gomez added.

The piece will be available for sale and the artist will receive a stipend. Artists can find application details at the City of Sturgeon Bay’s website.

The Wisconsin Department of Motor Vehicles wants voters to be prepared for this year’s elections, with the spring primary less than a week away.

Wisconsin voters are required to show photo identification at the polls, such as a driver’s license, passport, or a state, military, tribal or student ID card.

Voters without one of those forms of identification can obtain a free state photo ID card by providing proof of name and date of birth, identity, Wisconsin residency, Social Security number, and citizenship or legal status.

Residents can apply at DMV service centers across the state, including locations in Sturgeon Bay and Algoma.

The reminder comes as some Wisconsin voters prepare to head to the polls for primaries that will narrow the field ahead of the spring election on April 7.

Only one primary is scheduled in Door and Kewaunee counties on Feb. 17.

In Door County, District 17 Supervisor Bob Bultman, who represents parts of Baileys Harbor and Jacksonport, is being challenged by Dave Smith and Mariah Goode for his seat on the Door County Board. The top two candidates will be on the ballot in the spring election on April 7.

The Wisconsin Humane Society (WHS) is calling on the Door and Kewaunee County community to help as the dog population rises at local shelters, including those serving Northeast Wisconsin. In response, WHS has reduced adoption fees for certain long-term dogs and is seeking additional foster families.

Dogs labeled as “benchwarmers”, a term WHS uses for animals that have been waiting longer than average for homes, are now available with a name-your-own adoption fee. The designation also makes them eligible for extra promotion and participation in a trial adoption program.

 “Our shelters are seeing more dogs staying with us for longer periods of time, and we need the community’s help to create space,” said Corey Viars of the Wisconsin Humane Society. “These dogs are wonderful companions who just need the right match.”

Through the Benchwarmer Tryout Program, potential adopters can take a dog home for up to seven days before making a final decision. “It takes the pressure off families,” Viars said. “They can see how a dog fits into their daily routine while giving that animal a break from the shelter.  At the very least the dogs get a week vacation.”

For those unable to adopt, fostering is another urgent need. WHS provides supplies, food and medical care. “Fosters truly save lives,” Viars added. “Even short-term help makes a big difference.”

Door County residents looking for help stretching their grocery budgets may qualify for FoodShare Wisconsin, the state’s version of the federal Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP).

FoodShare provides monthly benefits on a QUEST card, which works like a debit card and can be used to purchase eligible food items at participating stores. The Door County Department of Human Services says the program is designed to support individuals and families facing rising food costs, seasonal employment gaps, or unexpected financial hardship.

Many households can qualify solely based on income. While seniors age 60 and older and people with disabilities may still qualify even if their income is above standard guidelines.

Receiving FoodShare does not affect eligibility for scholarships, does not require military service and does not put lawful permanent resident status at risk. Benefits received through FoodShare are not considered under public charge determinations.

Applying is free, confidential and available in Spanish. Door and Kewaunee County residents can call the FoodShare Helpline at 1-877-366-3635 or apply online.

Department officials can also help residents complete applications or answer questions about eligibility and required documents.

The Door County YMCA is highlighting its corporate membership options and the membership-for-all program as Winter 1 programming comes to a close and Winter 2 sessions prepare to begin.

Corporate memberships offer local businesses an opportunity to support employee wellness while providing access to YMCA programs, fitness facilities, and community activities.

The YMCA’s Membership-for-All program ensures that financial barriers never prevent individuals or families from participating in programs and services. “Through Membership-for-All, we are able to provide flexible financial assistance so everyone in our community can experience the benefits of belonging to the Y,” said Amy Gamble, Communications and Outreach Director for the Sturgeon Bay YMCA.

Winter 1 programming will wrap up later this month, making way for a new slate of Winter 2 classes and activities. Registration for Winter 2 opens first to YMCA members on February 16, followed by registration for non-members and the broader community on February 18.

Registration will be available both in person and online starting at 5 a.m. on each registration date. Phone registration will begin later in the morning at 10 a.m. Participants can choose from a wide range of programs designed for all ages and fitness levels.

“The Y is here to serve the entire community,” Gamble added. “Whether you’re joining through a corporate membership or signing up for a single class, we’re excited to welcome people into our programs this winter.”

For more information please visit the Door County YMCA website or listen to this week’s Y-Wednesday podcast with Adam Collins here.

Two 4-H leaders from Kewaunee County will join elite company as part of the newest class of Wisconsin 4-H Hall of Fame laureates.

Lisa Cochart and Millaine Wells are among the 11 new inductees in the state’s 4-H Hall of Fame, which celebrates the organization’s volunteers, financial supporters, staff and pioneers who have made significant contributions to the movement at the local, state and national levels.

Wells balances her career in television at WFRV-TV with serving as a 4-H leader with the Pilsen Skylighters. The winner of the Kewaunee County 4-H Outstanding Leader Award last year, Wells has been instrumental in helping the county’s Cloverbuds and LEGO project program flourish.

Cochart is a lifelong 4-H member and is active in the organization’s state dog project. The owner of Casco Kidz Zone, Cochart said it is an honor to be inducted alongside others like Wells, who “bleed green” when it comes to 4-H and everything it offers area youth.

Cochart and Wells join 4-H founder Random Asa Moore, Eugene Erichsen, and Linda and Joe Pribek as Wisconsin 4-H Hall of Fame laureates.

Theresa Kinnard of Door County is also a member of the 4-H Hall of Fame. The organization will celebrate its newest members April 18 in Rothschild.

More information about the induction ceremony can be found below.

The Sevastopol Pioneers boys’ basketball team may have won the game, but the Sevastopol and Gibraltar communities came together for an even bigger victory — raising $17,678 for 8-year-old Violet Tanck.

A standing-room-only crowd packed the Sevastopol gymnasium Monday night to support Violet and her battle with a rare form of Ewing sarcoma.

Butterflies filled the gym, appearing on T-shirts and sweatshirts, tattooed onto players, and displayed on walls.

After watching the end of the junior varsity game with her family, Violet was introduced to the crowd under a canopy of cellphone lights. Members of the boys’ and girls’ basketball teams then spread out around the gym for the Miracle Minute, set to her favorite song, “Golden,” from K-Pop Demon Hunters.

Violet’s aunt and Sevastopol Athletic Director Brooke Tanck made sure her niece knows that as she travels to and from Milwaukee for treatment, the community is standing in her corner.

 

 

 

 

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Monday marked the second time the Pioneers boys’ basketball team has helped raise thousands of dollars for children battling cancer.

In December, $12,000 was raised to support the Butch and Ramirez families, and nearly another $2,900 was collected for DoorCancer, a local organization that helps fund families on their own cancer journeys.

Sevastopol coach Tom Ash expressed his appreciation for the community’s support.

Those who missed the game but still want to support Violet can donate through a GoFundMe page set up for the Tanck family.

Gibraltar will also host its own cancer benefit game in conjunction with the Vikings’ home boys’ basketball matchup against Sturgeon Bay. The event, Kat’s Full-Court Fight Against Lymphoma, will support 2018 Gibraltar graduate Kathleen Jackson in her battle with Hodgkin lymphoma.

More details about that game can be found below.

While it may be chilly — and potentially slippery — for those venturing out along Lake Michigan, the Algoma south breakwater wall is nearing completion.

Over the past two years, Roen Salvage Co. of Sturgeon Bay has rebuilt the deteriorating 1,500-foot-long structure. Crews first demolished the old concrete top down to water level before reconstructing it with a new flat surface that is 4 feet wider than the previous one.

The pierhead and the entire south breakwater are maintained by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to help ensure a safe harbor for Algoma and provide pedestrians with a safer way to enjoy views of the lighthouse.

Algoma City Administrator Matt Murphy said last month that a few touch-up projects will be completed later this spring before the work is officially finished on the south breakwater wall and the focus turns on the north breakwater .

Even after the south breakwater wall is complete, boaters near the Algoma Marina will still need to watch for construction crews.

The Army Corps of Engineers has budgeted thousands of dollars this year for repairs to the north breakwater wall, along with maintenance dredging. Murphy said that work is expected to begin this spring.

Door County will have to find other ways to repair damage from an August storm after Gov. Tony Evers announced Monday that his appeal for public assistance had been denied.

The decision comes about three months after Evers asked the Trump administration to reconsider its earlier denial of disaster aid for Door, Grant, Milwaukee, Ozaukee, Washington and Waukesha counties. Severe storms and flooding in August 2025 caused significant damage to public infrastructure.

The state had requested about $26.5 million to help the affected communities recover.

Door County was included in Evers’ initial disaster declaration because of a confirmed tornado that touched down at Peninsula State Park on Aug. 9. According to the National Weather Service, the tornado reached peak winds of 73 mph, causing significant damage to power lines and trees before traveling across Eagle Harbor as a waterspout.

The state requested assistance from the Federal Emergency Management Agency and initially secured some support for repairs and recovery efforts.

In November, FEMA officials noted that while the impact on individuals and households was significant, “based on the Preliminary Damage Assessments, it has been determined that the public assistance program is not warranted.”

In the most recent denial, FEMA Senior Official Karen S. Evans echoed those sentiments, writing that “after thorough review of all the information contained in your initial request and appeal, it has been reaffirmed that the designation of the Public Assistance program under FEMA-4892-DR is not warranted.”

In response, Evers urged the Trump administration to reconsider.

“Wisconsinites have been hard at work to build back from these historic flooding events, but folks are not out of the woods yet,” Evers said. “Efforts to rebuild will cost tens of millions of taxpayer dollars that local communities will be on the hook for, and it’s really disappointing to see our federal leadership turn their backs on Wisconsin, our families and our communities in our time of need.”

He added that the state will continue advocating for federal support.

Door County could still receive assistance through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program, though it may face a similar outcome after the state’s first attempt was denied in October.

You can help the city awaken from its winter slumber this weekend as Destination Sturgeon Bay hosts its annual Fire and Ice Festival. Following an evening of luminary-lit hikes, glowing igloos and live music downtown, nearly two dozen ice carvers will take to the streets to sculpt creations out of snow and ice.

Area restaurants and businesses will also be drawing in festivalgoers with specials ahead of the Fire and Ice Gala, presented by Destination Sturgeon Bay at Stone Harbor Resort.

It has been since the Sturgeon Bay Unwrapping Parade and Christmas tree lighting that the community has been able to come together and celebrate. Destination Sturgeon Bay Executive Director Cameryn Ehlers-Kwaterski says seeing the city come alive again during what is traditionally a slower time of year is her favorite part of the festival.
 

Tickets are still available for the Saturday night Fire and Ice Gala, and more details can be found by clicking this link. The Fire and Ice Festival also kicks off the year’s events for Destination Sturgeon Bay, including the St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 14 and the Sturgeon Bay Fine Art Fair over Memorial Day weekend.

Photo submitted

The crash that killed a 23-year-old Egg Harbor man Friday night remains under investigation.

The Brown County Medical Examiner’s Office performed an autopsy Monday on Stephen Stamm. According to the Door County Sheriff’s Department, Stamm was traveling north on State Highway 57 when his vehicle left the roadway and struck a utility pole.

Deputies responded to the scene after 8:30 p.m., where Stamm was found and pronounced dead.

Emergency personnel from the Sturgeon Bay Fire Department, Door County Emergency Services, Sevastopol Emergency Medical Responders and the sheriff’s department also responded. The scene was cleared shortly before 11:15 p.m.

No additional information is being released. Autopsy results are pending, and the investigation continues.

It is time to honor some of your favorite volunteers as the United Way of Door County opens nominations for the Golden Heart Awards.

The annual event honors individuals and groups in seven categories: Adult Volunteer of the Year, Environmental Stewardship Award, Performing Arts Volunteer of the Year, Cultural Volunteer of the Year, Volunteer Group of the Year, Youth Volunteer Scholarship Award, and the Karl May Lifetime of Service Award.

More than 40 individuals and groups were celebrated during last year’s event. Award winners included Patricia O’Rourke (Adult Volunteer of the Year), Mark Nelson (Karl May Lifetime of Service Award), Joe Alexander and Kevin Moore (Cultural Volunteer of the Year), Doug and Barbara Henderson (Environmental Stewardship Award), Door County Habitat for Humanity building volunteers (Volunteer Group of the Year), Lola DeVillers (Performing Arts Volunteer of the Year), and Eve Andreae and Ophelia Linnan (Youth Volunteer Scholarship Award).

More information on nominating volunteers in the seven categories can be found below. The event will be held April 21 at Stone Harbor Resort in Sturgeon Bay.

Midsummer’s Music Executive Director Allyson Fleck is inviting audiences of all ages and backgrounds to enjoy chamber music with the Griffon String Quartet.

The organization’s Gather with the Griffon concert series takes place once a month throughout the area, bringing violinists Roy Meyer and Alex Norris, violist Oryann Tsaig, and cellist Jesse Nummelin to unique venues for free, one-hour performances.

The concerts are typically less formal than other Midsummer’s Music events, but they align with the Griffon String Quartet’s mission of making chamber music more accessible.

Interest in orchestral music is growing worldwide. According to the Royal Philharmonic Orchestra in London, the percentage of people who want to attend an orchestral concert has climbed — 84% in 2023 compared to 79% in 2018. More young adults are also exploring orchestral music, thanks in part to technology that makes it easier to access.

Gather with the Griffon concerts feature several musical selections along with a question-and-answer session with the performers. Fleck said the format helps connect newcomers to the musicians who have devoted their lives to the music.

The next Gather with the Griffon concert is scheduled for noon Feb. 12 at Stella Maris Catholic Church in Fish Creek.

The concerts, which are typically held on the second Thursday of each month, will take place in Green Bay on March 19 and return to Fish Creek on April 9.

A workshop on County ZZ in the Town of Liberty Grove is a total loss after an early-morning fire ripped through it Monday.

According to Sister Bay/Liberty Grove Fire Chief Michael Goldstone, the workshop’s owner woke up just before 1 a.m. to an orange glow outside his bedroom window and discovered the 20-by-50-foot woodworking shop engulfed in flames.

By the time firefighters from the Sister Bay/Liberty Grove Fire Department arrived, the structure’s roof and walls had collapsed, and the building’s contents were still burning.

Goldstone estimates about 16,000 gallons of water were used to extinguish the blaze, including attacks from the ground and the air.

While the building used a wood stove for heat, Goldstone said the exact cause of the fire will be impossible to determine due to the extent of the damage.

With assistance from the Ephraim, Baileys Harbor, Egg Harbor, Gibraltar, and Jacksonport fire departments, Door County Emergency Medical Services, and the Door County Sheriff’s Office, crews were able to clear the scene by 4:30 a.m.

A mix of snow and rain could make for a slick commute Monday afternoon. The National Weather Service has issued a winter weather advisory for seven Wisconsin counties, including Door County, beginning at 3 p.m.

Mixed precipitation around an inch of snow along with a light glaze of ice is expected, which could lead to slippery road conditions. Motorists are urged to slow down and use caution while traveling.

The winter weather advisory is expected to remain in effect until 3 a.m. Tuesday.

The Miss Door County Scholarship Competition returned to a sold-out Southern Door Auditorium, awarding more than $24,000 in scholarships and celebrated the talents of young women from across the region.

Kaylee Griep was crowned Miss Door County, earning the opportunity to represent the county at the state level. Paige Nikodem took home the title of Miss Cherryland, while Mia Glocke was named Miss Door County’s Teen.

The evening featured a wide range of talent performances, including singing, dancing, trumpet and flute performances, monologues, and baton twirling. Ashlyn Paulson received special recognition for winning Overall Talent, standing out among a strong field of competitors.

The sold-out event highlighted interview abilities, community involvement and talent with scholarship awards supporting the contestants’ future educational goals.

The future of approximately 72 lots in the city of Sturgeon Bay took another step forward last week after the Common Council approved the preliminary plat for the proposed Heron Crossing subdivision.

The plat covers a 27.5-acre site near North 8th Avenue and North 11th Place. The development is expected to include a mix of workforce housing, market-rate homes and duplexes.

Sturgeon Bay Mayor David Ward said the lots will be smaller than some others in the area, reflecting a trend in the homebuilding industry. He added that the city is in need of more lots to build on to help address the area’s housing shortage.

The Common Council also addressed other future housing projects, including approval of amendments to its development agreement with the developers of Sawyer Park Flats, as well as updates to the city’s zoning map for recently annexed portions of the Town of Nasewaupee.

If you thought Door County residents only complained about late cherry blossoms or tourists stopping short on Highway 42, think again. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) has released its list of the top consumer complaints of 2025, and yes, some of them may sound familiar.

Topping the list once again are landlord-tenant issues, proving that arguments over security deposits and mysterious maintenance delays aren’t just a peninsula pastime. Telemarketing came in second, meaning those “extended car warranty” calls are still interrupting supper, even during fish fry season.

Home improvement complaints ranked third, a reminder that not every contractor finishes the job before winter, or before the Packers kick off. Telecommunications complaints also climbed the ranks, likely fueled by billing disputes and internet speeds that mysteriously slow down just as someone tries to post sunset photos from Cave Point.

A newcomer to the top ten was major appliances, suggesting more than a few washing machines chose to quit during laundry night. Travel complaints rounded out the list, because even Door County folks occasionally leave paradise, and sometimes regret it.

DATCP says complaints are up overall, but help is just a phone call or online form away. So whether it’s a leaky roof, a pesky cold caller, or an appliance with bad timing, consumers don’t have to handle it alone.  Door County residents can request assistance with their issues, no matter how common, big, or small, by filing an online complaint on DATCP’s Consumer Protection webpage.

DATCP’s top ten consumer complaints filed in 2025:

1.     Landlord-Tenant Issues: 2,620 complaints

2.     Telemarketing: 1,283 complaints

3.     Home Improvement: 641 complaints

4.     Telecommunications: 633 complaints

5.     Identity Theft: 468 complaints

6.     Medical Services: 456 complaints

7.     Motor Vehicle Repair: 445 complaints

8.     Motor Vehicle Sales: 380 complaints

9.     Travel: 219 complaints

10.  Major Appliances: 158 complaints

Drivers in Northeast Wisconsin are being reminded to slow down and stay alert as highway maintenance work gets underway this week.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT) announced routine state highway maintenance will take place in the area beginning Monday, February 9. While work is generally limited to specific spots rather than entire roadways, motorists should expect short-term traffic impacts in active work zones.

Maintenance crews will be repairing pavement along northbound and southbound WIS 57 between Stevenson Pier Road and Stone Road. The work is scheduled to run Monday through Friday, February 9 through February 13, between 7 a.m. and 3 p.m.

During repair operations, lane closures will be in place to allow crews to safely complete the work. Drivers traveling through the area should anticipate reduced speeds, possible delays, and changing traffic patterns during daytime hours.

Motorists are encouraged to slow down, watch for signage, and give maintenance crews plenty of space. Planning ahead, allowing extra travel time, and staying focused behind the wheel can help prevent crashes and keep everyone safe.

WisDOT reminds drivers that highway maintenance is essential to keeping roads safe and in good condition year-round, and that patience and caution in work zones help protect both workers and fellow motorists.

The 38th annual Fish Creek Winterfest filled Clark Park and surrounding venues with laughter, friendly competition and plenty of winter cheer this weekend, as families, locals and visitors embraced one of Door County’s longest-running cold-weather traditions.

A highlight of the festivities was the 10th annual All Things Chocolate fundraiser at Gibraltar’s Old Town Hall, which sweetened the day while raising money for the Gibraltar Historical Association.

Outside, Winterfest’s signature mix of quirky contests and classic games kept the energy high. Participants tried their hand at ice bowling and long-distance cornhole, while fan-favorite events like the toilet seat toss drew both laughs and determined competitors. The ever-popular wheel of meat and a spirited booze ring toss added to the atmosphere.

By midday, spectators packed the tent at Clark Park for the beloved Stumpf Fiddle Competition, a Winterfest staple that once again showcased lively tunes and impressive talent.

Throughout the day, live music, hearty food and warm drinks helped festivalgoers stay cozy despite brisk winter temperatures. An ice rescue demonstration offered an educational moment, while the evening wrapped up with fireworks launched from the frozen waters, lighting up the night sky and closing another memorable chapter of Fish Creek’s winter celebration.

We at Crossroads are well into our Fish Tales Lecture Series, and plans already are underway for educational events tied to the annual fish migration. But for now, we pause — because we are located in Sturgeon Bay, and naturally, we will be celebrating the Fire & Ice Festival.

In fact, Fire & Ice kicks off at Crossroads with our luminary-lit hike Friday night. Then, on Valentine’s Day, we will offer our Science Saturday special, “Ice Harvest Demonstration.” During this event, interpreters from the Madden Tool Museum will guide visitors in using the simple machines once employed to harvest ice from the Bay of Sturgeon Bay.

We still have no idea how “Fire & Ice” became the name for Sturgeon Bay’s winter festival, but it seems fitting. In a very real way, the city of Sturgeon Bay was shaped by fire and ice. For that reason, we’ve never felt that our events stray from our environmental education themes.

But is there a connection between fire, ice and fishes?

Absolutely — and that connection is the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal.

In unpublished notes archived in the Laurie Room of the Sturgeon Bay Library, late mayor and historian Stanley Greene wrote:

“In 1864, a company was chartered to dig the canal. The state Legislature gave them a grant of 200,000 acres to finance the project [digging began in 1871]. But the timing was bad. The canal was grounded by lack of funds.

“By 1873, about a quarter of the project was complete, making the company eligible for its first allotment of land, which it could sell to raise revenue for the next phase. That same year, the company received $40,000 from the state because part of the canal timberland had gone up in smoke during the Peshtigo Fire.

“That windfall proved fortunate because, at the time, the remaining canal land had little market value and was difficult to sell. The project then languished for five years.”

According to Greene, that delay was fortunate because “in the interim, an engineer had perfected the use of hydraulic pumps mounted on barges and the use of steam instead of horse and hand power,” which lowered costs somewhat.

In their book Sturgeon Bay, Ann Jinkins and Maggie Weir wrote:

“Completed in 1882, the man-made waterway linked the waters of Green Bay and Lake Michigan. Suddenly, the long bay leading up to the canal became a major shipping passage. The success of the canal project boosted local industry and paved the way for new business endeavors.”

So that fire-charred land indirectly benefited commerce — but for fish, the story is more complicated.

The Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal altered the movement and distribution of fish between Green Bay and Lake Michigan. Before the canal, Death’s Door Passage largely limited exchange between the warmer, more productive waters of Green Bay and the deeper, colder waters of Lake Michigan.

The canal created a direct connection that allowed species such as walleye, pike, perch, whitefish and suckers to move between the two systems, with ecological consequences that scientists continue to study.

The canal also became one of several pathways that facilitated the spread of invasive species, including sea lamprey and alewife and later zebra and quagga mussels, which have competed with or preyed upon native fish. In addition, the canal influenced local water temperatures and encouraged mixing of fish populations that had previously been more distinct.

Looking even farther back, the Great Lakes, Green Bay, the Bay of Sturgeon Bay, and even the Sturgeon Bay Ship Canal owe their origins to repeated glacial advances — in other words, to ice.

So join us as we celebrate both fire and ice. Enjoy the small flames and blazing bonfires during our luminary-lit hike Friday, Feb. 13, and then take part in our ice harvest activity on Valentine’s Day.

Follow the Fish Tales Lecture Series to learn more about suckers, walleyes, salmon, alewife and smallmouth bass. And next spring, be sure to visit Crossroads during the Sucker Run.

They’re all connected.

Our trails are open every day, free of charge. Watch the ticker on the Crossroads website for trail conditions and Ski-for-Free program hours.

Upcoming Events

Thursday, Feb. 12

7 p.m. Fish Tales Lecture: Green Bay Walleye Management
Dr. Jason Breeggemann, senior fisheries biologist with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, will describe his research on walleyes in Green Bay. Free and open to the public.
Collins Learning Center, Crossroads at Big Creek, Sturgeon Bay, and via Zoom.
More information: doorcountylibrary.org/event

Friday, Feb. 13

5:30-7 p.m. Fire & Ice Luminary-Lit Hike
Help kick off Sturgeon Bay’s Fire & Ice Festival weekend with a candlelit walk. Join us for a roughly 1-mile hike on our trails in the enchanting glow of luminaries. Warm up afterward around a blazing campfire with hot chocolate, frosted cookies and good company.

Well-behaved dogs on leashes are welcome. Free and open to the public.
Crossroads at Big Creek, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay

Saturday, Feb. 14

2-4 p.m. Science Saturday: Ice Harvest Demonstrations
As part of Fire & Ice Festival weekend, volunteers from the Madden Tool Museum will demonstrate how ice was harvested in Sturgeon Bay in the 1800s using simple machines. Demonstrations will be held in the Collins Learning Center Entry Garden, with historical videos screened throughout the afternoon.

Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center.
Crossroads at Big Creek, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay

Tuesday, Feb. 17

3:30 p.m. Environmental Explorations: Winter Wander
Geared for elementary-aged students but open to learners of all ages. Participants will hike off-trail. Snowshoes provided if necessary.

Meet at the Collins Learning Center, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay

One of the most recognizable interactions law enforcement has with its community is typically through the everyday traffic stop. These opportunities for interaction occur for a variety of reasons, but all have the same goals in mind: the safety of the individual, the safety of the community, and the safety of the officer conducting the stop.

It is a common misconception that when you see the red and blue lights in your rearview mirror, you are about to have a negative experience resulting in two things: a fine and/or demerit points on your license. This is not always the case, as there are many reasons why law enforcement may make contact with you at any given time. One possible reason could be an equipment defect, such as a headlamp or taillight being out, or one of many other vehicle components required for safe operation on the road. Another reason for being pulled over could be to provide emergency notification of a possible hazard or danger in the immediate area.

The point is that regardless of the reason, our primary purpose for making traffic stops is educational or informational. If you are driving faster than the posted speed limit, our goal is to educate. This may be done through a verbal or written warning, or it may be facilitated through a citation if the violation warrants it. Again, our goal is not revenue generation or monthly statistics. As a local agency, we gain very little revenue from any of the fines or fees assessed in traffic tickets. Also, the number of traffic stops or tickets is not a factor in the evaluation of an officer here at the Kewaunee County Sheriff’s Department.

What is common in any traffic stop is the risk it poses to everyone in the immediate area. This is due to the fact that the law enforcement squad car, along with the stopped vehicle, is temporarily positioned alongside traffic that continues to flow. We try to minimize this risk by conducting traffic stops in the safest way possible. This means choosing the most appropriate location, allowing the officer to exit their vehicle and remain as safe as possible, while also creating as much space as possible for the stopped vehicle to prevent harm to the driver and passengers.

This is one of the reasons we always ask that motorists stay in their vehicles. If another driver is not paying attention and strikes the stopped vehicles, the safest place for the driver is inside their vehicle. Another reason we ask people to remain inside is to minimize risk to the officer. While most traffic stops occur without incident, the number of officers killed or injured during traffic stops is a serious concern.

Regardless of what you may be stopped for, your response should always be the same. Have your license, registration, and insurance information ready when the officer arrives at your window. Keep your movements to a minimum, and if possible, keep your hands on the steering wheel as the officer approaches. Although this may seem intimidating, try to place yourself in the officer’s shoes, approaching a vehicle without knowing who is inside or whether they may wish to do harm.

Although you may not agree with the outcome of the traffic stop, please respect the officer’s decision and know that the goal is keeping our communities safe. If you feel there are mitigating circumstances related to the behavior that led to the citation, you may address that on the court date provided on the citation. While leniency may not always be possible, professionalism on the part of the officer is.

I receive many calls from individuals who are unhappy about receiving a ticket, and my question is always not whether they felt they deserved it, but rather whether the officer was respectful during the contact. I am always proud, and never surprised, when the answer is that they were treated with respect.

Just as I like to tell students, law enforcement’s role is much like that of teachers. Our subject is traffic law, our classroom is the traffic stop, and your homework is to drive safely. Let’s all try to be “Straight A” students of motor vehicle operation.

A fatal one-vehicle crash claimed the life of a driver Friday night in the Town of Sevastopol, according to the Door County Sheriff’s Office.

Emergency crews were dispatched at approximately 8:36 p.m. to State Highway 57, just east of the Highway 42/57 intersection. Responders included the Sturgeon Bay Fire Department, Sevastopol Emergency Medical Responders, Door County Emergency Services, and sheriff’s deputies.

Initial investigation indicates a 2008 Pontiac passenger vehicle was traveling northbound on Highway 57 when it left the roadway and struck a utility pole. The lone male occupant suffered fatal injuries and was pronounced dead at the scene.

Authorities have not yet released the victim’s name, pending notification of family members.

Highway 57 was closed for several hours during the response and investigation, reopening to traffic at approximately 11:14 p.m.

The crash remains under investigation. No additional details have been released at this time.

All Things Chocolate, a popular winter fundraiser supporting the Gibraltar Historical Association, will celebrate its 10th anniversary on Saturday, February 7 at Gibraltar’s Old Town Hall in Fish Creek. 

The annual event brings together local bakers, candy makers, and area businesses who donate homemade desserts and specialty sweets, with proceeds benefiting historical preservation efforts in northern Door County. Dozens of volunteers help prepare treats, set up displays, and welcome guests, making the fundraiser a true community effort. 

Returning favorites this year include Cherry Bombs, Chocolate Cherry Cake, Cookies, and Earthquake Cake, along with new offerings such as Husky Chow, Almond Mound Brownies, Peanut Butter Fudge, and Decadent Chocolate Cake. 

The event runs from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., just across from Clark Park at Gibraltar’s Old Town Hall and is part of Fish Creek Winterfest. Visitors are encouraged to take the trolley and enjoy a full day of winter festivities.

Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) is set to receive a significant federal investment aimed at improving safety and efficiency across its airfield.

Airport officials announced this week that GRB has been awarded a $4 million federal grant to support critical upgrades and other airfield rehabilitation projects. The improvements are designed to enhance long-term operational reliability while ensuring the airport continues to meet federal safety standards.

The funding is part of a larger $12.4 million package in community funding projects secured for Northeast Wisconsin. U.S. Representative Tony Wied announced the funding Tuesday. The grant was also included in the 2026 federal appropriations package, which was approved by Congress and signed into law by President Trump earlier this week.

Airport Director Marty Piette said the investment will directly benefit travelers and strengthen airport operations.

“We intend to use these allocated funds to help improve the infrastructure of the airport,” Piette said. “Specifically, to improve the taxiways and ramps that will bring us into alignment with current FAA standards.” He adds, "This funding package was initiated by Tony Wied’s office and we are very appreciative of that.”

Piette says that the work supported by the grant will be incorporated into ongoing airfield improvement plans, helping maintain GRB’s role as a reliable gateway for travelers and businesses across the region.

A roadway you have likely used to access destinations along Sturgeon Bay’s east waterfront near the Bayview Bridge will soon be under city control.

The city reached a deal with the property owner in closed session Tuesday. Under the agreement, the City of Sturgeon Bay will purchase an easement from The Lodge at Leathem Smith for about $80,000 to properly extend South 18th Avenue toward Memorial Drive.

Motorists have used what was technically a private roadway for years to reach The Lodge at Leathem Smith, Bayview Senior Care and other nearby destinations.

Sturgeon Bay Mayor David Ward said acquiring the roadway has been on the city’s to-do list for nearly 30 years.

Ward expects the city will close on the property within the next month. He added that the road extension is already included in the city’s street improvement plan for 2026.

The newest album from musician and Northern Sky Theater co-founder Doc Heide didn’t require him to look far for inspiration.

Heide recently released Birthplace of Thunder, the latest album from his Zen of Thieves project, after a successful Kickstarter campaign raised more than $25,000.

It is his first studio album in more than 20 years, following a stretch of work on other creative projects.

Wisconsin takes center stage throughout the 16-track collection, featuring Northern Sky performers and stories rooted in the state in songs such as “Adele” and “Moonlight and Marshmallows.”

One of the most meaningful connections on the album is to Heide’s late collaborator, Fred Alley, who died several years ago. Heide said he hopes Alley’s spirit can still be felt in the recordings.

The album is available as a free download or to stream on most major platforms.

Door and Kewaunee counties followed the statewide trend in deer harvest numbers this season.

According to Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources data, 339,473 deer were harvested statewide during the 2025 season, which stretches from mid-October through late January in some counties, including Door and Kewaunee.

That marked an increase of more than 17,000 deer compared to 2024, when 321,844 deer were harvested.

The biggest jump came in the number of antlerless deer harvested, which was up more than 13,000 from the previous year. Some counties, including Door and Kewaunee, offered bonus antlerless tags when hunters registered this season.

Locally, hunters harvested slightly more deer in 2025 than in 2024.

Kewaunee County hunters harvested 3,080 deer, including 1,400 antlered deer — just two more than last year.

The gap was wider in Door County, where hunters harvested 4,255 deer, including 1,979 antlered deer, compared to 4,193 in 2024.

For those already counting down the days until they can return to the tree stand, next year’s deer hunting season will run from Sept. 12 through Jan. 3 statewide, with the gun season scheduled for Nov. 29.

Door and Kewaunee counties will likely be included in the holiday hunt from Dec. 24-31 and the extended archery season through Jan. 31.

You can explore the Great Peshtigo Fire from a different viewpoint as part of a book discussion hosted by the Kewaunee County Historical Society later this month.

Susan Levitte’s Secrets in the Woods is a historical fiction novel that follows a young Belgian immigrant girl as she handles the stress her family endured during the Great Peshtigo Fire.

In preparation for writing the book, Levitte reviewed archived newspaper clippings and sifted through firsthand accounts of the fire, which burned between 1.2 million and 1.5 million acres and killed between 1,200 and 2,400 people.

A local history buff, Levitte believes that while the nation may gravitate to the tale of a cow and a lantern that nearly destroyed the city of Chicago, the circumstances surrounding the Great Peshtigo Fire were a much more worthy pursuit.

Levitte will host her author talk at the Kewaunee County Historical Society in Kewaunee on Feb. 28 at 1 p.m. The event is free to attend, and copies of her best-selling book will be available for purchase.

Door County students preparing for life after high school have two opportunities for financial support as the Rotary Club of Sturgeon Bay opens applications for its 2026 scholarship programs.

The Rotary Technical Education and Robert Muckian Scholarships are once again available to graduating seniors pursuing hands-on career paths. These scholarships support students enrolling in two-year accredited technical colleges or other recognized technical education programs. Applicants must have at least a 2.0 GPA, participate in extracurricular activities or employment, and demonstrate a commitment to community service.

Executive Director Ben Foster said reviewing applications is one of the most rewarding parts of the process.

“Just hearing the stories of how they’ve volunteered, not only in their own community, but abroad is quite amazing,” Foster said. “It just shows that at such a young age, the kids that write in, are just so inspiring.”

Scholarship awards range from $500 to $1,500 and are funded through the Rotary Club of Sturgeon Bay Charitable Trust, along with an endowment from the estate of longtime Rotarian Robert Muckian.

In addition, the Rotary Club has launched its Four-Year “Service Above Self” Scholarship for students in the Class of 2026 planning to attend an accredited college or university full time. These scholarships range from $1,000 to $2,500 and are awarded to students in the upper half of their graduating class who demonstrate exceptional dedication to community service.

Foster said community response to the program continues to be strong. “It is really cool that we get such a great turnout for these scholarships,” he said.

To assist students during the application process, Rotary is once again partnering with Write On, Door County to offer free essay-writing support.

In recent years, the Rotary Club of Sturgeon Bay has awarded approximately $15,000 annually in scholarships. Full details and application instructions for both scholarship programs are available through the Door County Scholarship Network. Students must complete the online application by Friday, March 13. Scholarship recipients will be recognized at a Rotary luncheon in April.

The Door County Master Gardeners continue the Growing Together Education Series this month with a program focused on rain gardens and their role in protecting local water quality.

“Rain Gardens 101” will be presented Monday, Feb. 9, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. at Crossroads at Big Creek in Sturgeon Bay. The event will be offered as a video webinar and is free and open to the public. The program will be led by Master Gardener Karen Newbern, who will explain what rain gardens are, how they function, and how homeowners can incorporate them into residential landscapes.

Rain gardens are designed to capture and filter stormwater runoff, helping reduce pollutants while also providing habitat for butterflies, songbirds and other wildlife. Organizers say plant lists and additional resources will be available to attendees.

The Growing Together series features monthly educational programs covering a range of gardening topics for all experience levels. Presentations are based on research-supported practices aligned with Wisconsin Extension Master Gardener guidelines.

Programs are held on the second Monday of each month at Crossroads at Big Creek in Sturgeon Bay, and typically last about an hour. A light social mixer with refreshments follows each session for those who wish to connect with fellow gardening enthusiasts.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) activity in Minnesota and budget negotiations dominated U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson’s teletown hall earlier this week. The teletown hall came before White House Border Czar Tom Homan announced that 700 federal officers would leave Minnesota after weeks of conflict in Minneapolis tied to ICE operations.

According to the Associated Press, Homan said the decision followed a deal with state and local officials to cooperate by turning over arrested immigrants. Johnson blamed the Biden administration for what he called its “open border policy,” which he said allowed millions of immigrants into the country and increased the need for federal deportation efforts. He also defended ICE agents, saying they have endured more abuse than the average law enforcement officer.

Constituents also asked Johnson about his efforts to lower the federal deficit after President Donald Trump signed a new funding bill that ended a brief federal shutdown. According to NBC News, the legislation funds the government through September except for the Department of Homeland Security, which is expected to be the subject of continued negotiation between Democrats and Republicans over the next two weeks. Johnson said he is one of the few U.S. senators resisting increased spending in Washington, D.C., and added that he did not vote for the new funding bill because of $14 billion in earmarks that were included.

Johnson also addressed the Safeguard American Voting Eligibility (SAVE) Act, which would require voters to prove U.S. citizenship and present photo identification when casting a ballot. He said he supports the SAVE Act but does not support President Trump’s call to federalize elections.

You can watch his teletown hall below.

After a series of crashes involving snowplows across the state, Wisconsin transportation officials are reminding drivers to slow down and give plow operators room to work.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation says that 13 county snowplows have been struck so far this winter. Several of those crashes involved vehicles hitting plows from behind, causing significant damage and temporarily taking equipment out of service during critical snow removal operations.

Highway Commissioner Chad Scheinoha said the message is simple but vital.

“We just want you to get from destination to destination safely,” Scheinoha said. “The number one tip is we need motorists to slow down.”

Snowplows often travel at reduced speeds while spreading salt or brine and clearing snow and ice. Passing a working plow can be especially dangerous due to blowing snow and reduced visibility.

Scheinoha said drivers should not only slow down but also stay at least 10 car lengths behind a plow whenever possible. “Anytime there is snow out there, you should not be speeding and give the truck plenty of room,” he said. “The safest choice is to be patient and let the plow do its job.” “Speeding is, by far, the number one cause of these accidents.” He added.

Scheinoha also encourages motorists to check road conditions before traveling and to postpone trips during major winter storms, when possible.

If you count cherry spitting, toilet seat and bike flinging, and stumpf fiddling among your hobbies, Fish Creek is the place to be this weekend. Fish Creek Winterfest is one of the first Door County festivals of 2026, with activities taking place across the area but primarily along the shores of the bay at Clark Park.

Running from Friday through Sunday, Fish Creek Winterfest is known for its quirky games, though a noon ice rescue demonstration, a 3 p.m. concert by Bacchus Lotus and 6 p.m. fireworks are among the other highlights. A Friday night glow shoot at the Peninsula Gun Club and a Sunday morning fun run bookend the Fish Creek Winterfest activities.

The event not only awakens the area from its midwinter slumber, Fish Creek Winterfest also raises thousands of dollars for local schools and nonprofits. You can find the full schedule of events below.

Farmers in Door and Kewaunee counties are expected to employ even more conservation strategies after more than 90 farmers, agriculture professionals, and community members attended the Peninsula Pride Farms Annual Meeting on Tuesday at Lambeau Field.

With more than 60 members, Peninsula Pride Farms participated in soil and water conservation efforts such as cover crops, no-till planting, and split nitrogen application on the equivalent of thousands of football fields, helping keep nutrients in the fields and out of area waterways.

While farmers were able to celebrate their accomplishments, Tuesday’s focus was learning. Dr. Larry Roth of Agrarian Solutions, Barry Fisher of Fisher Soil Health, and representatives from the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection; the Department of Natural Resources; and the Natural Resources Conservation Service spoke at the daylong event, offering farmers new ideas to improve the land and their bottom line.

During the final panel, NRCS Assistant Jimmy Emmons told farmers they need to keep a close eye on their fields to determine what inputs are necessary — and unnecessary — to ensure plentiful crops and profitable operations.

 

 

 

 

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The learning does not end with the annual meeting. The organization is already planning its upcoming Conservation Conversation series, which will take farmers and community members into the fields of area farms to see firsthand how conservation practices are being implemented.

Families in the Sevastopol School District will have an opportunity to check in on their young children’s development next month during a districtwide screening event designed to connect families with early support.

Sevastopol School will host its second 4K developmental screening and Child Find day on Tuesday, March 10, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. The event will take place in the Carl Scholz Pioneer Room at the school.

The screening is part of the district’s ongoing Child Find efforts, a federally required initiative aimed at identifying children who may need early support services. “Every school district has a responsibility to make the public aware of activity, screenings, and evaluations of students,” said Melissa Marggraf, Sevastopol’s Director of Pupil Services.

Child Find focuses on locating, identifying and evaluating children ages 3 to 21 who may qualify for Early Intervention or Early Childhood Special Education under the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act. The program applies to children not yet enrolled in school, as well as those attending private or religious schools within the district.

“Each screening lasts about 90 minutes and involves a team of professionals from the school,” Marggraf adds. Families may also meet with public health staff, and children can receive hearing and vision checks. Young participants will also engage in activities that allow teachers and therapists to observe their thinking, language and motor skills.

“We do a fall and a spring screening, because we want to meet our newest Pioneers,” Marggraf said. “We want to let our families know that the support of the school district is there.”

School districts throughout Door and Kewaunee counties continue with their 4K screenings and awareness throughout 2026. The Southern Door County School District offers monthly developmental screening opportunities for children, with appointments available September through April. The Gibraltar Area School District currently has 4K enrollment open for the 2025-26 school year. In the Kewaunee School District, families can contact the district for upcoming 4K registration details and possible spring screening dates for preschool-aged children.

Additionally, many districts in the region participate in Wisconsin’s open enrollment period, allowing families to apply for 4K programs in other districts from early February through late April each year.

The Door County YMCA is preparing to wrap up its Winter 1 programming, with Winter 2 sessions set to begin later this month, offering a wide range of fitness activities and expanded swimming opportunities for members and the community.

According to Mike McHugh, Competitive Swim Director at the Sturgeon Bay YMCA campus, the transition between sessions provides an ideal opportunity for individuals and families to get involved in swim lessons. “We have 2 great sessions coming up to get you or your kids in to swim lessons,” McHugh said. “Winter 1 session is coming to an end this month and Winter 2 registration and sessions are upcoming.”

For the Door County YMCA’s 2026 winter schedule, the Winter 1 session runs through February 22. Winter 2 will begin on February 24 and continue through April 18. Registration for Winter 2 opens February 17 for YMCA members, with non-member registration opening February 19.  Registration opens at 5 a.m.

McHugh said Winter 2 will feature new training opportunities in addition to traditional swim lessons. “There are two trainings that you can sign up for,” he said. “A weekend session, from Thursday, March 12th through Sunday the 15th or every Tuesday night from 5 p.m. to 9 p.m. for seven weeks.”

The upcoming session will include classes for all age groups and skill levels, making it accessible for beginners, competitive swimmers, and those looking to improve their overall fitness.

Additional information on Winter 2 programs, registration, and scheduling can be found on the Door County YMCA website. Community members can also learn more by listening to this week’s Y-Wednesday podcast with Adam Collins here.

A new mentorship initiative launching in Door County aims to connect experienced professionals with emerging leaders, entrepreneurs, and lifelong learners across the community.

The program, called M², is in the early development stage and is designed to foster meaningful one-on-one and group mentorship relationships that support personal growth, professional development, and knowledge sharing.

Rather than rolling out a fixed model, organizers say the program is being shaped with community input from the start. “We want a kind of planning committee,” said Cynthia Germain, president and CEO of Do Good Door County. “This is meant to really recruit that planning committee and put some framework around the program.”

Organizers say the goal is not only to match mentors and mentees, but to create a sustainable structure for passing on skills, crafts, and lived experience across generations. Germain emphasized that the program is being designed with intention. “We want to make the program impactful for both the mentor and the mentee,” she said.

The initiative is being developed by Do Good Door County, a Sturgeon Bay–based organization focused on strengthening local connections and community impact. Organizers say Door County’s diverse professional landscape and strong sense of community make it an ideal place to pilot a collaborative mentorship program.

M² is expected to officially launch in June of 2026, following a year of planning, outreach, and community engagement. Organizers encourage anyone interested in mentoring, learning, or helping design the program to get involved early.

Those interested in contributing ideas or learning more about M² can contact Do Good Door County by email at dogooddoorcounty@gmail.com

For the second time this season, the battle on the Sevastopol High School basketball court will take a back seat to a much more important fight off it.

Monday’s boys basketball game between Sevastopol and Gibraltar will be played in honor of 8-year-old Violet Tanck, a Sevastopol Elementary School student who was recently diagnosed with a rare form of Ewing sarcoma.

The third-grader has already had a kidney and some lymph nodes removed and has months of chemotherapy and radiation treatments ahead at Children’s Wisconsin in Milwaukee.

A GoFundMe has raised nearly $23,000 to support the family while Violet’s parents, Ryan and Laura, do what they can to meet her daily needs.

Violet’s aunt and Sevastopol Athletic Director Brooke Tanck is no stranger to sports serving as a backdrop for a larger effort. Earlier this year, Sevastopol’s Stronger Together game against Sturgeon Bay raised more than $12,000 for the families of Blake Butch and Sevastopol student Luna Ramirez through T-shirt sales, a 60-second “Cash for a Cause” bucket collection and other fundraising activities.

Tanck says it is truly amazing to see the Door County community continue to come together for its neighbors.

A bake and soup sale, a miracle minute, a free-throw competition and paper butterfly sales will take place during Monday night’s slate of basketball games. The JV tips off at 5:30 p.m., followed by the varsity game at 7 p.m.

You can learn more about Wings for Violet Night and how you can support the Tanck family below.

Two recent measles cases in Wisconsin have public health officials urging residents to make sure their vaccinations are current. Since Jan. 26, Wisconsin Department of Health Services officials have confirmed cases in Waukesha and Dane counties. In both instances, the infected individuals had recently returned from international travel.

The cases come after the state saw measles infections jump in 2025, due in part to an outbreak in Oconto County that affected 36 people.

Door County Public Health Nurses Stormy Gale and Holly Neri say symptoms such as high fever, cough, runny nose, red and watery eyes, and a rash could lead to more serious complications.

Neri and Gale urge people to get up to date on their vaccinations, especially if they plan on traveling.

Door County’s measles vaccination rate is around 85%, slightly above the state average but still below the 95% goal needed to prevent outbreaks. Neri and Gale recommend talking with your doctor to see if you are up to date on your vaccinations.

According to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, the United States recorded its highest number of reported measles cases since the disease was declared eliminated in the country in 2000, with more than 90% occurring among unvaccinated individuals.

If you missed last year’s Kewaunee County Breakfast on the Farm at El-Na Farms in Algoma, you’ll have another chance this summer.

Kewaunee County Dairy Promotion announced Tuesday that El-Na Farms will host the Father’s Day weekend tradition for a second straight year. The farm had not hosted the event since 1998 before returning as the site in 2025.

Pagel’s Ponderosa Dairy had been announced as the 2026 host farm but stepped away from the event last fall.

El-Na Farms is home to Kewaunee County’s first rotary parlor and includes about 2,500 cows and 7,500 acres. Owner Lonnie Fenendael said the timing was right to host again, noting that the fields typically used for parking will be planted with the same crops as last year.

Fenendael said it was important to keep the event on a working farm so the public can see what farmers do on a daily basis.

The Kewaunee County Breakfast on the Farm will take place June 21, beginning at 7 a.m. with a church service, followed by breakfast from 8 a.m. until noon.

Last month, organizers announced that Lazy J Dairy in Brussels will host this year’s Sevastopol FFA Dairy Breakfast on July 5.

Approximately 45 to 50 dairy breakfasts are held across Wisconsin each year in celebration of June Dairy Month.

Despite his death in October 2024, the case involving Richard Pierce could still have another day in court.

An appeal of Pierce’s murder conviction was placed on hold last July after WBAY reported that his attorney suffered a stroke and could not continue with the case. According to court records, attorney Brian Patrick Mullins has now taken over the appeal, which was filed while Pierce was still alive.

Pierce was convicted in August 2022 of murdering his wife, Carol Jean Pierce, and disposing of her body in 1975. The crime dates back to Pierce’s time stationed in Sturgeon Bay as a member of the U.S. Coast Guard.

Carol Jean Pierce’s body was never found, and the case remained unsolved for decades until the Wisconsin Division of Criminal Investigation and the Sturgeon Bay Police Department reopened the investigation and solved it 47 years later.

Pierce’s previous legal team argued that some testimony presented at trial was hearsay and that no new evidence directly tied him to the murder.

Pierce died Oct. 24 at Dodge Correctional Institution. In early December 2024, Judge David Weber denied all arguments raised in the appeal and refused post-conviction relief, according to court records.

Mullins now has 60 days to file the updated appeal.

A reimagined waterfront space near Nautical Drive aimed at improving the boat launch, strengthening the dock wall, and enhancing access and safety is getting closer to becoming a reality, thanks to a pair of grants awarded to the City of Sturgeon Bay.

Last week, the city learned it had received a Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources Recreational Boating Facilities grant of $518,414 and a Wisconsin Department of Transportation Harbor Assistance Program grant of $188,000. The funding will support a project that has been years in the making.

In 2024, the Sturgeon Bay Common Council moved forward with a concept created by Edgewater Resources. The plan includes a Sail Training Foundation building, a new E-Dock, and a renovated boat ramp at the city-owned property next to the Sturgeon Bay Yacht Club.

Sturgeon Bay City Administrator Josh Van Lieshout says grants like these make projects attainable and help move progress forward more quickly.

The Sturgeon Bay Common Council will discuss the DNR grant during its meeting Tuesday at 6 p.m. The agenda also includes approval of a preliminary plat for Heron Crossing, amendments to the development agreement for Sawyer Park Flats, and the purchase of South 18th Avenue.

Sturgeon Bay was not the only recipient of a Wisconsin Department of Transportation Harbor Assistance Program grant. Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding received $411,000 for dock wall repairs and fender system improvements to help protect Great Lakes vessels from damage during berthing for repairs.

When the Algoma Common Council meets on February 17th, you could see another step forward in addressing the city’s housing needs. On the agenda, the council is expected to approve a final plat for Mary Min Acres. The development would bring at least 40 homes to the city’s west side, near the corner of Fremont Street and Sunset Avenue.

The city approved Tax Increment District No. 5 to help assist in the development of the 31-acre parcel. The project comes on the heels of the city’s Portside Lofts, which introduced dozens of low-income apartments to the community last fall.

City Administrator Matt Murphy says it is important for the city to continue pursuing ways to bring more residents to Algoma.

The housing development will add to the construction already underway in Algoma. Murphy says the city’s new fire station, which broke ground in November, is beginning to take shape on Sunset Avenue.

NOTE: A previous version had the meeting as taking place on February 2nd, but it was moved due to a lack of a quorum

You will have at least one less thing to worry about if you plan on heading onto the ice of the Bay of Green Bay for fishing or other recreational activities. The U.S. Coast Guard announced over the weekend that it is closing the southern portion of the bay until further notice to allow for winter recreation.

The closure covers all waters southwest of a line extending between the Peshtigo Reef Lighthouse and the Sherwood Point Lighthouse. It comes days after the Coast Guard warned that people on the ice in the bays of Sturgeon Bay and Green Bay should still be cautious of icebreaking missions.

By closing that portion of the bay, the Coast Guard hopes the reduction in commercial traffic will lessen the risk for those who fish, snowmobile, or participate in other activities on the ice. The restriction will remain in place as long as ice is present.

A recent stretch of subzero temperatures has helped area bodies of water build up ice depth. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, ice anglers on the east shore of Green Bay near Red River and Bayshore Park have been fishing on top of 12 to 14 inches of ice, comparable to conditions in Little Sturgeon Bay and Sawyer Harbor.

An early Monday morning fire in the Town of Brussels is serving as a reminder for residents to properly dispose of ashes from wood-burning stoves.

The Brussels-Union-Gardner Fire Department responded to a home on Cedar Lane shortly before 1:45 a.m. after receiving a report of a structure fire with active flames and smoke coming from the back porch.

When crews arrived, flames were stretching from the ground to the roof, and a nearby power line was down across Cedar Lane.

Using the department’s ultra-high-pressure suppression system, firefighters were able to knock down the blaze enough to begin an interior attack. Crews were able to limit damage primarily to the exterior of the home, along with a second-floor bedroom and attic space above it.

According to BUG Fire Chief Curt Vandertie, the fire originated on the back porch, where the homeowner had stored discarded ashes from a pellet stove in a plastic container. The exact cause remains under investigation.

No injuries were reported. The homeowner was able to escape safely with their cats.

BUG Fire responded with seven units and 18 firefighters, and received additional assistance from Southern Door, Nasewaupee, Sturgeon Bay, Casco, New Franken and Luxemburg fire departments, along with Door County EMS, the Door County Sheriff’s Office, Wisconsin Public Service, and the Door County 911 Communications Center.

The scene was cleared at approximately 4:30 a.m.

As I continue reporting on the activity of the Sheriff’s Department in 2025, I would like to share some data from the Patrol Division.

Probably the most visible division within the Kewaunee County Sheriff’s Department is our Patrol Division. It comprises the most recognizable duties we carry out throughout the year. There are twelve deputies assigned to the Patrol Division, which is supervised by Lt. Eric Zellner. The minimum staffing for Kewaunee County’s 322 square miles is two patrol deputies.

When you consider the distance from Tisch Mills on our southern border to Dyckesville on our northern border, you begin to understand the demands this places on our staff, both in terms of continual presence and response time.

If we look at the overall process—from the time a call or complaint is made to the Sheriff’s Department through its completion—the Patrol Division plays an important role. Aside from those calls determined to be civil in nature and not involving an active crime, the Patrol Division is dispatched to all of them, ranging from keeping the peace to traffic offenses and domestic incidents.

The category for these calls is “Complaints Assigned,” and in 2025 they accounted for 3,180, compared to 3,132 in 2024. In many cases, the complaints may be occurring within one of the local jurisdictions or even involve an adjacent county, but we are requested to provide assistance. These are categorized as “Assist Other Agencies” and accounted for 724 in 2025, versus 556 in 2024.

Of the complaints we respond to, not all result in arrest. Many times, a deputy is able to mediate the situation or resolve the complaint with a warning to the perpetrator. In some cases, however, the evidence provided requires that an arrest be made. In those instances, the total number of arrests in 2025 was 193, compared to 247 in 2024.

While this number may seem low, these calls tend to be very involved and require a great deal of the deputy’s time for follow-up and documentation.

The most commonly perceived duty of the patrol deputy is, of course, traffic enforcement, although it accounts for relatively little of the overall time spent during a given shift due to the demands of call response. In 2025, there were 974 citations and 1,580 warnings issued, compared to 1,691 citations and 2,013 warnings in 2024.

We like to approach traffic enforcement from an educational perspective and, when possible, try to achieve learning through warnings. Unfortunately, there are times when either the offense is so egregious or the individual has already been given the courtesy of a warning that a citation is unavoidable.

It is important for people to realize that deputies do not enjoy issuing citations any more than the person receiving one. Our ultimate goal is always public safety.

Some of the duties the Patrol Division carries out that may not be as commonly known are those related to civil process. By statute, the Sheriff’s Department is tasked with carrying out actions that are the result of our circuit court judge’s orders. These can range from eviction actions, to support of a writ, or involvement in child custody orders.

We are also responsible for notifying those involved in these actions through the service of papers or notices. These “Papers Served or Attempted” accounted for 403 calls in the past year, whereas last year the number was 339.

The two final categories are what I would consider customer service: “Citizen Assists” and “Property Checks.”

Citizen assists are, for the most part, unplanned events that result from unfortunate circumstances involving members of the public. These can range from stranded motorists to providing information regarding vehicle registration or licensing. Deputies handled 210 citizen assists in 2025, compared to 234 in 2024.

Property checks are a service we provide when requested by individuals in our community who may be away from their homes for an extended period of time. They may also involve additional attention given to a property that has recently been the victim of a criminal act, when the owner would like us to monitor activity in the area. In 2025, we conducted 3,483 such checks, compared to 2,351 the previous year.

A final category our Patrol Division responds to is “Welfare Checks.” These are calls in which a loved one or neighbor has not heard from or had contact with someone and requests our assistance in verifying their well-being or status. Fortunately, most of the time the outcome is simply that the person was away on vacation or too busy to respond.

Our department responded to 135 such requests in 2025, which is fairly consistent with previous years (127 in 2024).

I hope the takeaway from this article is that when you see a Sheriff’s Department squad, you have a better understanding of the many different duties these men and women engage in during a given shift. In all of these numbers, the most important element is the relationship we have with those whom we serve.

All the data and statistics mean nothing if we do not have the support of our community, and it is our goal to maintain a high level of professionalism for those we have sworn to protect and serve.

Public confidence in Wisconsin’s technical colleges continues to climb, according to new survey results released by the Wisconsin Technical College System.

The statewide survey shows 66% of Wisconsin residents now hold a favorable view of technical colleges, up 14% since 2022,  and the highest level measured in recent years. NWTC President Kristen Raney says the shift reflects changing attitudes about higher education, with families increasingly focused on affordability and clear career outcomes.

“The survey results were really positive,” Raney said. “The one thing that stands out is that the favorable opinion has dramatically increased in the last 4–5 years. The survey highlights the amount of trust in the education we provide.”

“People want college pathways that lead to meaningful work,” Raney added. She said technical colleges offer relevant training, lower costs and strong job placement, making them an attractive option for students and families.

Results confirm that Door and Kewaunee County residents value workforce-ready education and recognize technical colleges as both career launch points and pathways to bachelor’s degrees. According to the survey, 76% of residents say Wisconsin benefits from technical college education, and the same percentage agree not all students benefit from a traditional four-year college path. Nearly two-thirds view technical colleges as strong transfer options.

Local outcomes mirror that confidence. At NWTC, 78% of students completing associate transfer degrees move on to four-year institutions, while enrolling more than 500 students in its rapidly growing transfer programs. Dual-credit offerings are also expanding, saving families millions in tuition.

“We are seen as a strong point of access for good careers and transfer opportunities,” said Raney. 

Fighting fires is hard enough on its own, but it can be an extra challenge when you throw Mother Nature into the mix.

Temperatures were in the single digits this past week when firefighters responded to structure fires in Sturgeon Bay, Fish Creek and Egg Harbor.

Gibraltar Fire Chief Andy Bertges said with wind chills making it feel much colder, firefighters have to pay extra attention to their equipment and their own health while on the scene.

Bertges said a strong, coordinated response ensures firefighters can stay safe while also extinguishing the blaze.

While accidents happen, Bertges said cleaning your chimney, checking your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and limiting other potential hazards in your home will help prevent fires.

Firefighters will get a little relief this coming week, with several days of temperatures above 20 degrees.

The Algoma Public Library is offering a wide variety of programs for all ages throughout February 2026, encouraging community members to learn, create and connect.

Children and families can enjoy weekly Toddler Time on February 3, 10, 17 and 24 at 10:30 a.m., along with Brilliant Builds for ages 7–12 on February 25. Teens are invited to Book Bedazzling on February 10 and Snacks, Tracks & Crafts on February 19, both designed to combine creativity with social fun.

Adult programming includes Tech Thursday: Info Soup Basics on February 19, helping you to navigate digital library resources, and a relaxing Sit ’n’ Stitch session on February 21, open to teens and adults. The library will also host Mahjong Games on February 18 and Chinese Brush Painting on February 27.

Community outreach continues with a Luxemburg Library Card Drive at Stodola’s IGA on Monday, February 2. Other programs include Valentine’s Day card making and Lunar New Year activities available in the library throughout the month.

The library’s Frosty Reading Challenge runs through February 28, offering prizes for children, teens and adults who complete reading goals. For more information,  please visit the Algoma public library’s website or you can call the Algoma branch directly. 

Walleyes are the topic of our next Fish Tales Lecture, scheduled for Thursday, February 12 at 7:00 p.m. Dr. Jason Breeggemann, Senior Fisheries Biologist with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, will present “Management of the Green Bay Walleye Fishery.”

Crossroads displays two mounted walleyes in the Great Lakes Exhibit on the entry level of the Collins Learning Center. Visitors often find them fascinating—not only because the walleye is Wisconsin’s state fish (yes, Wisconsin has a state fish), but because their eyes look so unusual. The eyes of a live walleye are even stranger: they appear to glow in the dark.

They do not truly glow, of course. Instead, walleyes have a special reflective layer in their eyes called the tapetum lucidum. This adaptation allows them to see extremely well in low light, making them most active near the surface at dawn and dusk. At other times, they prefer dark or murky water, where this visual advantage helps them hunt prey.

Walleyes are especially active in spring, when they must fatten up in preparation for spawning, and again in fall, when they build fat reserves for winter. They do not hibernate, but continue moving and feeding under the ice at a slower pace. Cold temperatures reduce their metabolism, yet they still need to eat, and dawn and dusk remain their most active periods even in winter.

Many people wonder whether walleyes are as plentiful as they once were. At the Fish Tales Lecture, Dr. Breeggemann will explain his research, describe how data are collected in Green Bay, and address questions about the current status of walleyes beneath the ice.

Gardeners slow down in winter too, but around this time of year—perhaps prompted by the arrival of seed catalogs—they begin planning gardens and landscapes. On Tuesday, February 10, the Door County Master Gardener Association invites the public to a free program, “Growing Together: Rain Gardens 101,” featuring Karen Newbern. All are welcome, especially those with soggy areas in their yards who want to learn about this environmentally friendly landscaping solution.

On Saturday, February 7, in conjunction with the 2026 Winter Olympics and in recognition of how important ice is on the Door Peninsula, our Saturday Science program will be “A Melting Olympics.” Following our popular (and admittedly messy) “fun in the lab” format, each lab table will feature experiments and demonstrations highlighting the unusual properties of ice. Activities are designed for elementary-aged students, but learners of all ages are welcome.

One of ice’s most beneficial properties is that it floats. Local river otters take advantage of this, and while otters are known to eat slow-moving walleyes in winter, they tend to favor smaller, easier prey.

Weather permitting, our after-school Environmental Exploration program will include a hike to the Cove Estuary, where otters are known to live and take advantage of open water created by natural seeps. Participants will also have the opportunity to try kicksleds to better understand how otters move across snow and ice. An indoor alternative will be offered if conditions require.

Up-to-date information on trail conditions, closures, and open hours for our Ski-for-Free program will be posted on the ticker of the Crossroads website. Trails are open all day, every day, free of charge. When the Sturgeon Bay School District closes schools, the Collins Learning Center will be closed, and all meetings and programs will be canceled.

Schedule

Saturday, February 7
2:00 p.m. Melting Olympics
This “fun in the lab” program invites participants to explore why ice melts through hands-on experiments and friendly competitions. Intended for elementary students, but open to learners of all ages.

Tuesday, February 10
1:30 p.m. Door County Master Gardener Association: Growing Together Education Series – Rain Gardens 101
A free public program on rain gardens and how protecting water quality can begin right in your own yard.

3:30 p.m. Environmental Exploration – Meet the Otter
An outdoor hike to the Cove Estuary, weather permitting, or indoor activities if needed. Geared for elementary-aged students, but open to learners of all ages.

Wednesday, February 11
1:30 p.m. Wandering Wednesday
Join a naturalist-led hike with easy walking, lasting about an hour. Well-behaved dogs on a leash are welcome.

Thursday, February 12
7:00 p.m. Fish Tales: Management of the Green Bay Walleye Fishery
Dr. Jason Breeggemann, Senior Fisheries Biologist with the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources in Green Bay, will discuss his research on walleyes and answer questions about the current status of the fishery.