Residents in Door and Kewaunee counties will soon see expanded access to lifelong learning opportunities through a strengthened partnership between Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC), Door County Learning in Retirement (DCLIR) and University of Wisconsin–Green Bay.

Beginning July 1, UW–Green Bay will officially join the long-standing collaboration between NWTC and DCLIR, which for more than two decades has provided enrichment courses for adult learners across the region. The addition of UW–Green Bay will bring new in-person and online continuing education offerings, along with expanded administrative support.

“As a university, we have an extensive history of serving older adults,” said Jess Lambrect, executive officer of UW–Green Bay’s Division of Continuing Education and Workforce Training. “To be in collaboration with NWTC and DCLIR further recognizes the aging population of the peninsula.”

Courses will continue to be offered at NWTC’s Sturgeon Bay campus, while additional classes will be available at the Sister Bay Learning and Innovation Center. Programming will include subjects such as culinary arts, business development and social sciences, with options designed to appeal to learners of all ages.

The partnership expansion comes as both counties experience notable demographic changes. According to recent U.S. Census data, nearly 30% of Door County residents and about 28% of Kewaunee County residents are age 60 or older, underscoring the increasing demand for accessible and engaging lifelong learning opportunities.

Lambrect said the collaboration is designed not only to expand course offerings, but also to strengthen community connections.

“We can collectively work together and ensure that our Door County residents can be engaged and active in the programs and outside of it,” she said.

Lambrect says the partnership will help create more flexible pathways for retirees, working adults and others seeking continued education, while also fostering social interaction and community involvement.

Programs will continue year-round, with registration for upcoming courses in Door and Kewaunee counties opening later this summer. 

For more information, please visit the organizations websites.

A book possibly on your shelf, written by Kewaunee author Chase Pagel, is officially an award winner. Pagel’s “Big Farms, Little Farms” outlasted seven other entries in the Wisconsin Agriculture in the Classroom Book of the Year contest for the upcoming 2026-2027 school year, which featured authors from around the state highlighting farming in children’s books.

The book showcases farms of all shapes and sizes and highlights not only Pagel’s home operation, Pagel’s Ponderosa Dairy in Kewaunee, but also other operations in Kewaunee, Door, and Manitowoc counties, including Luxemburg’s Aissen Tree Farm and Casco’s Hillside Apples.

Pagel says it is an honor to receive the award, and she is thrilled the book is serving as the introduction to agriculture it was intended to be.

As the winner, the book will be incorporated into classroom curriculum across the state during the 2026-2027 school year. “Big Farms, Little Farms” is the third book written by Pagel, joining “Rosco’s Sweet Treats” and “Good Night Heifer” as part of her Dairy Diaries series, which has also been translated into Spanish.

As spring migration ramps up across the Door Peninsula, wildlife advocates are urging residents to take simple steps at home to reduce bird-window collisions, a leading cause of bird deaths in North America.

Each year, millions of birds travel along the Lake Michigan shoreline, making Door County a critical corridor for both migratory and resident species. But with that seasonal movement comes increased risk. Experts estimate hundreds of millions of birds die annually in the U.S. after striking buildings, often mistaking reflections in glass for open sky or habitat.

“Birds don’t recognize glass the way we do,” said Corey Viars, Media specialist, Wisconsin Humane Society, Green Bay and Door County campuses. “When they see trees or sky reflected in a window, they think it’s safe to fly through. During the spring, when activity is at its peak, those collisions increase significantly.”

Viars said homeowners can play a major role in prevention. Applying window clings or decals, placing tape or film on glass, and breaking up reflections are among the most effective solutions. Closing blinds on opposite windows can also prevent birds from attempting to fly through “tunnel” views inside homes.

Other options include hanging reflective materials like Mylar tape or even old CDs, installing netting a few inches in front of windows, or adjusting bird feeder placement.

“With so many birds already facing habitat loss and other threats, reducing window strikes is one of the easiest ways people can help,” Viars said.

Peak migration in Door County typically occurs in April and May, making now an important time for residents to take action. For more information, please visit the Wisonsin Humane Society website.

A small brush fire in the Town of Brussels on Monday is a reminder that even though several inches of snow have melted in the past two weeks, things are drying out.

The Brussels-Union-Gardner Fire Department responded to the fire on Dump Road just before 6 p.m. According to Assistant Fire Chief Jim Wautier, the resident had a valid permit for burning brush, but when the wind shifted, the ashes spread and ignited about a 50-foot area of nearby grass.

It took about 30 minutes for firefighters to extinguish the blaze and water the surrounding area so the property owner could finish what was still burning.

Wautier said burning smaller piles, using a burn barrel and paying close attention are some of the ways to prevent a brush fire from growing beyond control while conditions remain dry.

Even though Door County is one of 10 counties at a low fire danger level, Wautier said the next two to three weeks could be prime for brush fires because of drying conditions. Brown, Kewaunee, Manitowoc and nine other counties are at a moderate fire danger level, while the rest of the state is listed as high.

Door County’s rooting interest, Genevieve Heyward, will now focus on her spring tour after being eliminated from American Idol on Monday night. Heyward was one of six contestants sent home during the show as the field was narrowed from 20 to 14 after more than 17 million votes were cast.

First making waves as the “Pickle Girl,” her renditions of Elton John’s “Your Song,” Heart’s “Magic Man” and Brandi Carlile’s “The Story” drew rave reviews from the show’s judges, Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.

Heyward graduated from Badger High School in Lake Geneva in 2017 before building her music career at local festivals such as Steel Bridge Songfest in Sturgeon Bay, Mile of Music in Appleton and Summerfest in Milwaukee.

Although you won’t be able to catch her on American Idol in the coming weeks, you won’t have to wait long to see Heyward in Wisconsin. After she plays in Nashville on May 29, she is scheduled to perform in Lake Geneva on June 13 and Madison on June 14.

Photo submitted

Gibraltar Elementary School Principal Lauren Ward was named one of the top principals in the state last week, as one of 17 recipients of the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation Principal Leadership Award.

The award honors school principals who demonstrate strong leadership and dedication to education.

Ward was one of four principals in CESA 7 to be recognized, joining West De Pere High School’s Russ Gerke, Chilton Area Catholic School’s Samantha Meyers and Cedar Grove-Belgium Elementary’s Jeff Kondrakiewicz.

Ward took on the role of Gibraltar Elementary School principal in 2022 and has been integral in connecting district families with quality 4K education by partnering with the Northern Door Children’s Center, The Ridges Sanctuary and others.

Gibraltar Superintendent Brett Stousland says Ward is a deserving recipient.

Ward and the district each earned $6,000 grants for being finalists, and she could be named the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation State Principal of the Year in the coming months.

As part of the Herb Kohl Educational Foundation’s awards, 100 teachers are also selected for their own honors.

You have another opportunity next month to see the evolution of agriculture unfold in Kewaunee County.

Kinnard Farms in Casco has been tapped to host the first session of the Peninsula Pride Farms Conservation Conversation series in 2026. The session will cover three aspects of its operations that Kinnard Farms hopes will make it more sustainable for the foreseeable future.

Attendees will be able to see the farm’s sand separator system, bioreactor and newly constructed Sedron facility. The sand separator system allows the farm to recycle the sand it uses as bedding for its herd of more than 8,000 cows.

Constructed in 2024, Kinnard Farms became the first in the country to have a denitrifying bioreactor and a phosphorus removal system (PRS) built in-line on the same tile system within a field, designed to reduce nitrogen and remove dissolved phosphorus in runoff water.

In 2025, the farm showed off its new Sedron facility, which houses the Varcor systems tasked with processing dairy manure into three products: a dry organic fertilizer, a liquid fertilizer featuring ammonium nitrate, and clean distilled water. The facility is one of three in the United States, joining two others in Indiana.

When he unveiled the facility last August, Lee Kinnard of Kinnard Farms said the technology allows him to be a better steward of the environment and a better neighbor. He added that the Varcor system will take hundreds of manure trucks off local roads.

The Peninsula Pride Farms Conservation Conversation, which will take place at other farms highlighting different practices throughout the year, will begin at 10:30 a.m. in the Kinnard Farms observation room and run until 2 p.m., following the tour. More information about the event is available below.

CLICK THE GRAPHIC TO RSVP

As the country commemorates Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in the final days of March, that work continues in Sturgeon Bay. For more than 50 years, Sunshine Resources of Door County has provided a place for people with developmental disabilities not just to socialize, but to find additional purpose in the community through its day and employment services.

Over the past 10 years, Sunshine Resources has added P.A.T.H. of Door County and Sunflower Cottage under its umbrella. Together, they connect people of all ages with others in the community while helping them discover their interests and providing opportunities to succeed. Client Services Director Hayley Moynihan says clients and families alike benefit from being able to get out into the community and interact with one another.

Sunshine Resources’ clients and families are not the only ones who benefit from the organization’s work. Local businesses rely on Sunshine Resources’ employment services crew to accomplish some of their most important tasks, while Human Resources Director Diana Ferderer says the organization also provides great outlets for volunteerism.

Sunshine Resources will announce some of its opportunities for growth in the coming years — including offering services in northern Door County and expanding several of its facilities — when it hosts its Corporate and Strategic Partner Breakfast on April 8 from 7:30 to 8:45 a.m. at Stone Harbor Resort in Sturgeon Bay. You can watch our full interview commemorating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month below.

Travelers trading snowbanks for sand beaches this week hope to find some relief as Easter celebrations ramp up and spring break vacations wind down. That relief will not come for the wallet, as AAA reports gas prices, airfare and hotels are all up from last year.

Gas prices dropped a nickel from last week, now averaging about $3.61 a gallon. That is still up from last year’s average of $3.01. The organization also says domestic airfare is up about 7%, and hotels are 8% higher than in 2025.

Travel will also cost time, with more people trying to squeeze in a vacation and a shortage of Transportation Security Administration agents on the job due to the government. The Trump administration did what it could to limit wait times, thanks to an executive order that will pay TSA agents as soon as Monday.

Austin Straubel International Airport Director Marty Piette echoed his usual travel advice: pack patience if you plan on flying, especially if you are departing from the country’s busiest airports.

Airlines for America projects 171 million people will fly during this year’s spring break season, which stretches from March 1 to April 30. Whether on direct or connecting flights, Piette says many flights are fully booked for spring break travel.

Families across Door and Kewaunee counties will have plenty of chances to hop into spring festivities in April as municipalities, libraries and local businesses host a full slate of Easter egg hunts and themed events.

The Algoma Public Library will host an egg hunt April 3 from 1 to 2 p.m. for children ages 2 to 12, followed by a “Peeps Taste Test” challenge April 7 from 3:30 to 4:40 p.m. for teens ages 10 to 18.

The busiest day of the season arrives April 4, when several communities will host hunts within hours of each other.

In Brussels, the Brussels Town Park will open its annual hunt at 9 a.m. The event, organized by the Brussels Shining Stars 4-H Club, will divide children into four age groups: 0-2, 3-4, 5-7 and 8-10 years.

Also at 9 a.m., Baileys Harbor Recreation Park, will welcome families for its community hunt. After check-in, children will line up by age group and race for candy and prizes when the horn sounds. Festivities continue afterward with kids’ activities and photos with the Easter Bunny.

In Sister Bay, the Sports Complex will host its hunt at 10:30 a.m., where participants will search for colored eggs by age group and watch for a golden egg that holds a special prize. The Easter Bunny will also be available for photos.

Ellison Bay’s Fitzgerald Park will follow at 11 a.m., offering hundreds of eggs filled with treats along with two special golden eggs hidden among the hunt.

Jacksonport will wrap up the morning schedule at Lakeside Park at 11:30 a.m., children ages 2-10 will collect three eggs each to exchange for prizes. The event also features free face-painting and appearances by the Easter Bunny, Miss Door County and Miss Door County’s Teen.

The intersection of one family’s worst moment and another’s happiest can often start simply by checking a box on your driver’s license.

According to Donate Life America, a new person is added to the national organ transplant list every 10 minutes, with 17 people dying each day while waiting for a transplant.

Many people do not realize that one person can save eight lives and heal more than 75 others simply by becoming an organ donor after they die.

Along with other hospitals across the country, Door County Medical Center commemorates Donate Life Month every April as a way to share the stories of people impacted by organ donation.

Last year, Don and Polly Helm shared the story of their daughter, Ellie, who died more than eight years ago in an ATV accident but lives on in others because of her decision as a 16-year-old to become an organ donor.

Angie Giorgini from Versiti, which works with Door County Medical Center on its organ donation program, says Donate Life Month shows the impact a tough but meaningful conversation can have on several people’s lives.

Door County Medical Center will commemorate Donate Life Month on April 8 with a special ceremony scheduled to begin at 1 p.m.

You can listen to the full conversation with Treml and Door County Medical Center Director of Nursing Christa Krause online with this story.

Runners of all ages are invited to take part in the annual YMCA Blossom Run, set for Saturday, May 9, at Egg Harbor’s Dock Park near the marina.

Hosted by the Door County YMCA, the event features 2- and 5-mile races, along with a 1-mile fun run for children. Participants can also enjoy snacks, music, door prizes, medals and trophies following the races.

“This is always a great morning. Usually we have great weather and an even greater time,” said Abby Baker, special wellness director at the Sturgeon Bay YMCA.

New this year, organizers are introducing an upgraded race timing system. “In the past, we’ve had volunteers timing people with stopwatches. Finally, we have a real timing system,” Baker said.

Participants who register by April 13 will receive an early-bird discount and are guaranteed an event T-shirt. Children 12 and under receive a discounted rate but must also register by that date to secure a shirt.

 “You need to register soon if you really want one of those retro T-shirts,” Baker said. “The race and the T-shirts celebrate 175 of the YMCA.”

For more information, please visit the Door County YMCA website or listen to this week’s Y-Wednesday Podcast here.

I hope I am not speaking too soon when I say that it appears spring is here. Although we may still experience a stray snowfall, its presence will be fleeting, and we can begin to focus on finally doing all of those projects and activities we have aspired to over these many months.

Some of these activities may involve long walks or even longer bike rides. While we are fortunate to have many miles of beautiful trails throughout the county, some of our routes may take us along public roadways. The mixing of vehicular traffic with bicyclists and pedestrians brings with it many risks and considerations.

Over the years that I have been running, I have had the opportunity to see firsthand some of the potential risks as a pedestrian and to make sure that I am not posing a risk myself.

If you are a bicyclist or pedestrian, please make sure you are seen. This may mean wearing bright colors or having reflective equipment on you and/or your bike. When traveling by foot, always walk or run against traffic. This will give you better visibility of oncoming vehicles and provide the ability to react if a safe distance is not being maintained. I am still shocked at the number of people I see walking with traffic while wearing headphones. Please use all of your senses when in close proximity to traffic.

When biking, travel with traffic, as you have the same rights and responsibilities as a motor vehicle. Please remember that just because you are on a bike does not mean you can ignore the basic rules of the road. Stopping at stop signs, yielding to traffic, and even using arm signals are still your responsibility when using the roads.

If you are operating a motor vehicle, please give due regard to both pedestrians and bicyclists. When approaching, give them plenty of room by moving over or remaining behind them until it is clear to pass. Be aware of the wind shear your vehicle creates as it passes people and bikes along the road.

We are fortunate here in Kewaunee County to have the ability to separate pedestrians and bicyclists from motor vehicle traffic through the Ahnapee Trail System. This trail runs throughout the county, and whether you are from Algoma, Kewaunee, Luxemburg or Casco, you can access it and, in just a few short steps or pedals, be surrounded by nature. The noise and concerns of the world fade away, and the sights and sounds of nature take over. There is no better remedy for mental stress, anxiety or overall frustration than physical activity.

Let’s all work together to make this a safe and enjoyable spring.

Community members gathered at Sawyer Park on Sturgeon Bay’s West side Saturday as part of another nationwide “No Kings” protest opposing the current administration in Washington. The local demonstration began around noon, drawing a crowd of residents who joined similar events held across the country.

Participants assembled at the park before marching throughout downtown, following a route that took them across the Oregon Street Bridge, down 3rd Avenue, through the downtown corridor, across the Michigan Street bridge, and back to Sawyer Park via Madison Avenue. Along the way, demonstrators carried signs, chanted slogans and sang, creating a visible and vocal presence throughout downtown Sturgeon Bay.

The event remained peaceful, with attendees expressing their views through bullhorns and speeches. Some participants danced and waved placards as passing traffic slowed, either honking in support or choosing other methods of acknowledgement while a small counter-protest milled about nearby.

Saturday’s demonstration marked another instance of Door County residents joining coordinated national efforts, highlighting continued political activism within the community.

The Sturgeon Bay Finance/Purchasing & Building Committee will take up several development and policy items during its meeting on Tuesday, March 31, including a detailed look at the city’s stormwater utility and key discussions on a hotel project and tourist rooming house licensing.

The stormwater utility presentation is expected to be a focal point of the meeting, including a Zoom presentation by Cedar Corporation engineer Mike Kaster. District 1 Alderperson Helen Bacon said the discussion will help explain how the system was created and funded.

“We are going to have a presentation during the meeting on why we set it up, how it was set up, and why we charge what we do,” Bacon said.

The committee will also consider updates to tourist rooming house licensing fees, part of an effort to address short-term rental oversight. Bacon said the city has been studying the issue for several years.

“We started collecting data two or three years ago about this,” she said. “We went from a two-year application process to every year, and the fee went from $100 to $200.”

Alderperson Bacon says the updated fee structure is comparable to, or lower than, that of similar municipalities.

Additional agenda items include infrastructure bids for fire utility equipment, a request from Cobblestone Hotels for a 60-day extension to complete a property purchase, tax increment district extensions for affordable housing, park concession stand repairs and discussion of the Colorado Heights housing development.

The meeting begins at 4 p.m. at Sturgeon Bay City Hall and is open to the public, with residents encouraged to attend.

Destination Sturgeon Bay will host the 28th Annual Fine Art Fair over Memorial Day weekend at Martin Park, featuring more than 80 artists and a full lineup of entertainment, food and family activities.

The two-day event runs Saturday, May 23, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sunday, May 24, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., and will highlight original works in painting, sculpture, glass, jewelry, photography, wood and ceramics from artists across the Midwest.

Alexa Soto, marketing coordinator for Destination Sturgeon Bay, said the event continues to expand each year with new attractions and returning favorites.

"We have so many new, exciting things happening this year." Soto said.

This year’s fair will again feature live entertainment, children’s activities and interactive experiences designed for families throughout the weekend.

"We have more artists than ever coming from across the Midwest, live music and tons of stuff for the kids." Soto said.

Destination Sturgeon Bay will present awards to participating artists, including first through third place in both two- and three-dimensional categories, along with Best of Show and Honorable Mention. 

Soto said the community atmosphere is a key part of what makes the event special.

"We're so excited for a very special Art Fair this year on Memorial Day weekend." Soto said.

More information is available on the Destination Sturgeon Bay website.

The Baileys Harbor Community Association (BHCA) will host the 38th annual Door and Kewaunee Brown Trout Tournament beginning April 16, inviting anglers to compete for prizes on the waters of Lake Michigan.

The four-day tournament opens at 4 a.m. Thursday, April 16, and runs through noon Sunday, April 19. Participants will fish for brown trout, with a $1,000 prize awarded to the first-place finisher and additional payouts for the top 25 anglers.

Brown trout are among the largest sport fish in the region, with the Wisconsin state record weighing more than 41 pounds, underscoring the potential for trophy catches during the spring event.

Tournament anglers must submit a completed weigh-in form the same day as their catch, with verification from a witness. Weigh-in stations will be located at multiple sites across Door and Kewaunee counties. This year's weigh-in stations are located at Lakeshore Adventures, Howie’s Tackle, Kewaunee Yacht Works and Hooked Up Tackle Shop.

Tournament tickets cost $25 per person, and all fishers age 10 and older, as well as everyone fishing in a boat, must hold a valid ticket and Wisconsin fishing license.

The tournament boundaries include Lake Michigan and Green Bay along the Door County shoreline, extending south to the Kewaunee County line.

Additional information is available on the BHCA website.

Door County residents can join demonstrators across Northeast Wisconsin and nationwide Saturday as part of the latest “No Kings” protests.

A rally is planned in Sawyer Park, in Sturgeon Bay, with events scheduled to run from late morning into the afternoon, drawing participants from across the Door Peninsula.

The local demonstration is part of a coordinated national day of action that includes more than 3,000 events across the country. The protests aim to oppose what some describe as authoritarian policies under President Donald Trump and advocate for democratic values and civil liberties.

While larger cities like Green Bay and Appleton are expected to see bigger crowds, organizers say participation in smaller, rural communities like Door County highlights the movement’s growing reach beyond urban areas.

The Door County event is supported by local grassroots groups, including Indivisible Door County, and is expected to remain peaceful, in line with nationwide efforts emphasizing nonviolent protest.

Additional rallies are also planned throughout Northeast Wisconsin, including in Kewaunee and Green Bay, as part of the broader regional turnout.

While the impact at Austin Straubel Airport in Green Bay was not the same as what was seen at larger airports in Chicago, Atlanta and New York City, local government leaders and businesses ensured that Transportation Security Administration officials felt appreciated.

The more than 40-day partial government shutdown could conclude as soon as this weekend after the U.S. Senate approved a new Department of Homeland Security funding deal that would pay members of the TSA, U.S. Coast Guard, FEMA and other employees under its purview.

Democrats and Republicans have pointed fingers at each other for causing thousands of employees to go without pay and for forcing long lines at the nation’s airports.

Hours before the deal was announced, President Donald Trump said he would sign an executive order ensuring that TSA agents would be paid after going more than a month without a paycheck.

In Green Bay, Airport Director Marty Piette says being a smaller airport helped them not only keep lines moving but also allowed the community to show appreciation for local TSA agents.

Piette says that while wait times have been relatively normal at Austin Straubel Airport, he advises travelers to allow extra time at larger airports that have been more affected during the partial government shutdown.

The House of Representatives and President Trump still need to sign off on the deal approved by the Senate on Thursday.

With the spring session arriving at the Door County YMCA, a new free program is coming to the peninsula. The Livestrong cancer survivorship program will begin next month at the Sturgeon Bay YMCA Program Center, offering support and guidance for individuals at any stage of their cancer journey.

The free, 12-week program runs from April 21 through July 8, with classes held Tuesdays and Thursdays from 1 to 2:15 p.m. The next session officially begins April 26.

Designed for those who have had or are currently undergoing cancer treatment, Livestrong focuses on helping participants safely return to exercise while also emphasizing nutrition and overall health and wellness.

“Wherever you are in your cancer journey, this class is for you,” said Abby Baker, Special Wellness Director at the Sturgeon Bay YMCA. “This program is free for all who need it. You don’t even have to be a member.”

Baker said participants will receive personalized guidance throughout the program. “You’ll spend those 12 weeks learning how to get back to exercising. We will set you up with a plan,” she said.

In addition to the program, family members of participants will have access to the YMCA and its amenities during class times, providing added support for those involved.

For more information, please visit the Door County YMCA website or listen to this week’s Y-Wednesday Podcast here.

Door County Public Health Certified Car Seat Safety Technicians Pam Robillard and Teri Van Lieshout say as long as your car seat has not expired and is properly installed in your vehicle, new federal standards announced this week should not force you to run to the store.

According to WKBN in Youngstown, Ohio, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration is updating federal standards to improve how car seats are tested. After years of focusing on how front- and rear-end crashes affect car seats, side-impact crashes will now be considered.

After Dec. 5, all newly manufactured car seats will have to comply with the new side-impact test. Robillard and Van Lieshout say car seat technology is always evolving, and that means seats are already tested for side-impact crashes. They add that this is a good reminder to ensure your car seat is properly fitted and installed for your child.

Robillard and Van Lieshout say you can visit the Door County Public Health Department to schedule an appointment to have one of their certified car seat safety technicians check your child’s car seat.

According to AAA, properly used car seats reduce the risk of fatal injury by up to 82% for children compared with seat belt use alone, though between 46% and 81% of car seats are installed or used incorrectly.

While hundreds fill the Kewaunee County Fairgrounds Exposition Hall in Luxemburg on Saturday sampling beer, Kewaunee Lions Club member John Mastalir hopes attendees also take time to speak with club members.

The Kewaunee and Dyckesville Lions clubs frequently collaborate on projects at the local, state and national levels. Vision testing in schools, improvements at Red River County Park and Bruemmer County Park, and scholarships for graduating seniors are all made possible through the work of area Lions Club members in addition to funds distributed to the Wisconsin Lions Camp in Rosholt.

With membership in service organizations declining across the country, Mastalir said events like Saturday’s Roar Off the Shore are important for showcasing the group’s “We Serve” mission in the community the other 364 days of the year.

Tickets are still available for the annual Roar Off the Shore Beer, Wine and Food Festival, which runs from 2 to 6 p.m. Mastalir says the event is the biggest fundraiser of the year for the Kewaunee and Dyckesville Lions Clubs, which splits the event's costs and proceeds to fund their individual projects. 

With opening night less than a month away, Third Avenue PlayWorks Artistic Director Jacob Janssen is excited to welcome audiences back to the Steve and Jackie Kane Theatre in downtown Sturgeon Bay.

After a busy winter of reading scripts, selecting plays, and coordinating set and costume design, rehearsals for TAP’s first production, Heroes, begin Monday.

The company will celebrate the new season Sunday with its Season Launch Party, where guests can learn about this year’s lineup of shows, artists, directors and community partners.

Janssen said every season sneaks up on him, but he enjoys the work that goes into producing a new slate of shows each year.

The Season Launch Party will be held Sunday, March 29, from 5 to 7 p.m. at the Steve and Jackie Kane Theatre. The event is free to attend, but advance registration is requested.

Heroes, a play about three World War I veterans sharing time together in a nursing home, opens April 22. You can listen to our interview with Janssen at this link.

Voters in the Southern Door School District have extra incentive to head to the polls this spring election season.

The district is one of more than 70 across the state going to voters this spring for additional funding above levy limits. Of those, 62 are considered operational referendum questions, which are used to help maintain programming, resources, staffing and basic maintenance.

In Southern Door’s case, district officials are asking to exceed the revenue limit by $3,150,000 per year for three years before potentially returning to voters ahead of the 2029-30 school year.

Superintendent Kevin Krutzik said he has had dozens of conversations with concerned residents since the question was officially placed on the ballot in January.

As a relatively new administrator in the district, Krutzik said residents have taken away something positive from the discussions, whether it’s learning more about the state’s school funding formula or raising concerns about their tax bill.

Krutzik invites residents to contact him for additional conversations about the upcoming referendum and directs them to the district’s website for more information.

Early voting is available now through April 3, with Election Day on April 7.

It took nearly an hour to clean up a two-vehicle crash on State Highway 57 in Nasewaupee on Tuesday evening.

The crash occurred at 5:45 p.m. near County DK after a 21-year-old Sturgeon Bay man pulled to the side of the road due to problems with his car.

According to the accident report, the man told deputies his vehicle began smoking when the engine’s temperature gauge rose. He reportedly turned on his hazard lights and pulled off to the left-hand side of the southbound lanes to call for help.

He admitted his car was partially in the lane when a second vehicle, driven by a 30-year-old Luxemburg woman, struck it from behind. She told deputies she was unable to safely merge into the other lane to avoid the crash.

Witnesses said they saw the woman strike the man’s vehicle but did not say whether the hazard lights were on.

The woman suffered a possible injury but was not transported for additional treatment.

Both vehicles were towed due to disabling damage, and no citations were issued.

Both lanes reopened at 6:45 p.m. after one lane was initially shut down shortly before 6 p.m.

For Door County residents looking for relief at the pump, Door-Tran in Sturgeon Bay can help with at least one of those fill-ups.

According to AAA, a gallon of gas in the Green Bay area on Monday stood at $3.68. That is up nearly a quarter from last week, more than a dollar from last month and more than 60 cents from a year ago.

Higher energy costs impact everyone, but especially residents living paycheck to paycheck, regardless of gas prices.

Door-Tran Executive Director Nikki Voight says qualified individuals can receive limited assistance through the organization, thanks to grants and support from community members. While the program maxes out at $100 in benefits, she says every little bit helps.

You can apply for the half-price gas voucher program by visiting or calling Door-Tran.

While markets may not provide relief at the pump, legislators at the federal level and in some states have floated the idea of a gas tax holiday lasting through the fall.

A 56-year-old Sturgeon Bay man will wait until the end of May to learn his fate after pleading no contest to child pornography charges Wednesday in Door County Circuit Court.

Scott James Soucek was arrested last July on 10 counts of possession of child pornography, each with a modifier of lifetime supervision of serious sex offenders.

According to court records, Soucek entered a not guilty plea in October prior to additional hearings in November and January.

Soucek pleaded no contest to three felony counts of possession of child pornography with a modifier of lifetime supervision of serious sex offenders. Seven other counts were dismissed but read in for sentencing.

He is due back in court for sentencing on May 27.

Residents of northeast Wisconsin will have an opportunity to speak directly with their state representative during a series of listening sessions scheduled for March 31.

State Rep. Joel Kitchens announced he will host three in-person sessions across the 1st Assembly District, giving constituents a chance to share concerns and discuss state issues.

“When I do legislation, the good ideas almost always come from constituents,” Kitchens said.

The sessions will be held from 10 to 11 a.m. at Kewaunee City Hall; from 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. in the Greene Room at the Door County Library in Sturgeon Bay; and from 2:30 to 3:30 p.m. at the Kress Pavilion in Egg Harbor.

Kitchens said the sessions provide an open forum for discussion on a wide range of topics.

“I look forward to talking about anything with my constituents regarding state business,” he said. “As partisan and contentious as the national political scene can be, I have always enjoyed these sessions.”

He added that the events are an opportunity to reflect on recent legislative work and gather input from the residents of the community directly.

The Sturgeon Bay Plan Commission is set to review several development proposals Wednesday, ranging from a large subdivision concept to a small bakery request and a duplex proposal, as city officials weigh growth alongside neighborhood concerns.

One key item includes an early-stage proposal for a subdivision along Division Road. Plans call for approximately 55 lots featuring a mix of single-family homes and duplexes, along with workforce housing elements and future infrastructure needs such as water, sewer and road access. The concept also includes a continuation of the Ahnapee Trail.

District 4 Alderman Spencer Gustafson emphasized the preliminary nature of the discussion.

“This is a property the city owns. We just recently purchased it,” Gustafson said. “We’ve been eyeing single family home options in the area for a while.”

No formal action is expected at the meeting, which is intended for initial review and feedback.

Also on the agenda is a request tied to  Drömhus  Restaurant to convert a nearby building into a small bakery. The proposal would repurpose a former office space into a roughly 12-seat operation requiring a conditional use permit.

“The Drömhus is always looking to innovate the property,” Gustafson said. “The Drömhus has become an absolute gem in the county.”

City staff has recommended approval, noting the project aligns with the surrounding mixed-use area and is not expected to create negative impacts.

A third item involves a request to build a duplex on South Hudson Avenue. The vacant lot meets zoning requirements but requires a conditional use permit.

“It’s a fairly simple item on the agenda. It is an isolated lot in the West Walnut neighborhood,” Gustafson said. “I always want to make sure the folks that call me get their voices heard at these meetings.”

The Plan Commission meets at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday at City Hall.

You may feel a little safer at events throughout the county after the Door County Board approved a $100,000 grant from the Destination Door County Community Investment Fund.

It was the largest grant awarded during the organization’s most recent cycle and will support the purchase of a countywide, mobile, crash-rated barrier system to protect events across the area.

The system is similar to what is currently used by the Sturgeon Bay Police Department for events in the city. The department also loaned it out for other events last year, including Sister Bay Fall Fest.

Door County Administrator Ken Pabich envisions the county and municipalities working together to use the barrier systems to help protect residents and visitors.

The board also accepted a donation for the Aging and Disability Resource Center, approved financial support for Ahnapee Trail improvements, and accepted funding from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for invasive species projects during its Tuesday meeting.

The Door County YMCA is preparing to launch its spring session of programming, with registration opening in mid-April.

Members can begin signing up Monday, April 13 at 5 a.m., while registration for non-members opens Wednesday, April 15 at 5 a.m. The spring session officially begins Monday, April 20.

“We are finally about to debut and open up spring sessions.” said Abby Baker, special wellness director at the Sturgeon Bay YMCA Program Center. “The classes should be up and online within the next week.”

This year’s session includes several new offerings, including Tai Chi, a Move for Better Balance class and a free cancer survivorship program designed to support those impacted by cancer.

“These new classes are really special,” Baker said.

Baker noted that popular programs tend to fill quickly, which is why early morning registration is offered. “Classes fill up early, so we open the classes at 5 a.m. to get things going early,” she said.

The YMCA encourages community members to register promptly to secure a spot in spring programming.

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

As city crews continue to dig out public parking lots after last week’s historic snowstorm, Sturgeon Bay officials are asking private property owners to do their part as well.

Sturgeon Bay was among the communities in the state that received the most snow from last week’s blizzard, with more than 33 inches. Combined with high winds and cars parked in inconvenient locations, Municipal Services Director Mike Barker says cleanup is extending into this week.

Like many municipalities across the state, Sturgeon Bay gives residents 24 hours to clear their sidewalks following a snowfall, whether it’s an inch or two or several feet.

Barker says that window would have been unrealistic given the amount of snow that fell between Saturday night and Monday afternoon. Now that a week has passed, he says it is time to clear the remaining snow so pedestrians can safely navigate city sidewalks, especially children walking to school.

Beginning Wednesday, Barker says the city will focus enforcement of snow removal ordinances in the downtown area and along routes to schools.

Officials say they will give grace to those making an honest effort to remove the snow, but otherwise it will cost $150 for the city to clear it.

Farmers in northeast Wisconsin are not even in their fields yet, and you can already find many of them searching for a second option when it comes to delivering important nutrients to their future crops. The war in Iran is not just causing pain at the pump, but also pain at agronomy centers as fertilizer costs rise.

According to CNN, more than a third of the world’s fertilizer supply passes through the Strait of Hormuz, which is at the center of the international conflict. Imported urea has been at the center of the price increase, with its cost jumping by more than a third since the war started.

Rio Creek Feed Mill Operations Manager Sam Barta says urea and liquid nitrogen has jumped up in price significantly since the conflict started, in some cases by as much as $200. While some farmers prepaid for all of their fertilizer upfront, others may have to shoulder some of the increase. He hopes they are able to help farmers find the right mix to ensure crops get what they need at prices they can handle.

Barta says by taking a more layered approach that farmers that will need to purchase more fertizer in the year will be able to get some at a more reasonable price.

You can still find a place to enjoy a drink with friends while maintaining a sober lifestyle in Door County.

No-alcohol beverage (NAB)-friendly programs are popping up across the country as a way to help restaurants and events attract people who may otherwise avoid them, just as they avoid beer, wine and other alcoholic beverages.

The programs can be as simple as creating menus featuring premium mocktails, alcohol-free wines and craft nonalcoholic (NA) beers, or as complex as the Zero Proof Pass in Milwaukee, where more than 20 venues offer incentives for people to go out and enjoy discounted NA beverages.

The Door County Alcohol and Other Drug Coalition launched its own NAB-friendly program last fall to encourage local bars and restaurants to welcome those who want to remain sober while staying connected with others in the community.

Steph Short of Door County AODA and the United Way of Door County is hopeful businesses see the benefit of joining the program.

According to The New York Times, 31 percent of restaurant operators saw significant declines in alcohol sales in 2025. Alcohol is an important revenue stream because of its high profit margins.

That comes as a Gallup poll shows 54 percent of Americans drink alcohol, the lowest level since Prohibition.

A once-in-a-lifetime experience aboard a Great Lakes freighter could be your prize for supporting the good works being done in your community.

The Noon Rotary Club of Sturgeon Bay is partnering with Interlake Steamship Company to raffle off a spot for up to six guests on a Great Lakes freighter to support the Rotary Club’s local service projects and community initiatives throughout Door County.

Departing from either Duluth, Minnesota, or Marquette, Michigan, the 3.5- to 5-day cruise takes you behind the scenes of commercial shipping operations while offering private stateroom accommodations, views of the Great Lakes and cuisine you can only find on a freighter.

Rotary Club member Amy Kohnle says the winner and their guests will get an authentic experience.

An allotment of 150 tickets is on sale now for $200 ahead of the April 30 drawing. Participants must be 18, have a valid passport and be flexible with their scheduling during the 2026 shipping season.

The Noon Rotary Club of Sturgeon Bay has held nautical-themed spring fundraisers for years, dating back to when the organization hosted its shipyard tours.

A gallon of gas was only $2.56 when Door County Transportation Manager Pam Busch noticed an uptick in ridership on the county’s public transportation options, and she expects it will continue to rise along with prices at the pump. According to AAA, a gallon of gas in the Green Bay area stood at $3.68, up nearly a quarter from last week, more than a dollar from last month, and over 60 cents from a year ago.

Middle East tensions and a switch to summer fuel blends have driven the increase in recent weeks, with last week’s blizzard only adding to the frustration. Busch says more people are relying on Door 2 Door Rides and the Door County Connect bus to get to and from work and run errands as they struggle to fill their gas tanks and keep up with repairs.

You can contact Door County Transportation for more information about its public transit options. Nationwide, gas prices are nearing $4 a gallon, with nine states, including Illinois, already at that level.

While Easter is still a little under two weeks away, the lead-up to one of Christianity’s holiest times of the year begins sooner than that. Holy Week, which commemorates the final seven days of Jesus’ life, begins Sunday with Palm Sunday.

Area churches, depending on the denomination, will reconvene later in the week for Maundy Thursday, Good Friday and Holy Saturday services, which observe the Last Supper, Jesus’ crucifixion and his resting in the tomb. Immanuel Lutheran Church Pastor Matthew Sprunger says the final days of Lent are a period of reflection for area Christians.

According to Lifeway Research, Easter is consistently the highest-attended church service of the year in the United States, with Christmas and Mother’s Day as the only other challengers. This year, Easter coincides with the Jewish celebration of Passover, which commemorates the liberation of the Israelites from Egyptian slavery.

Door County is joining others across the state in requesting that Gov. Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Legislature create a more sustainable plan for funding transportation infrastructure.

The Door County Board of Supervisors will weigh in on the resolution being circulated among members of the Wisconsin Counties Association during its meeting Tuesday.

The resolution points out that 10% of the state’s small bridges — those between 6 and 200 feet long — are in poor or severe condition, and that transportation aid has not kept pace with inflation and rising construction costs. Levy limits and fiscal constraints prevent communities from committing more dollars themselves to the effort, forcing them to rely on unpopular strategies such as increased borrowing and wheel taxes to make up the difference.

Door County Administrator Ken Pabich says progress was made years ago, but it has since stalled. He says a perfect storm of issues and concerns has brought them to this point.

The Door County Board of Supervisors will also weigh in on a donation to the Aging and Disability Resource Center, a grant for traffic barriers from the Door County Community Investment Fund, financial assistance for Ahnapee Trail assistance, and funding from the Environmental Protection Agency and Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources for invasive species when they meet at the Door County Government Center at 9 a.m.

You can begin casting your ballot in person starting Tuesday. In-person absentee voting runs from March 24 through the end of the business day April 3.

The vote begins after the League of Women Voters of Door County hosted candidate forums for Sturgeon Bay Common Council Districts 4 and 6 on March 11 and Door County Board Supervisory Districts 9 and 10 on March 23.

As on Election Day, you will have to present acceptable photo identification to cast your ballot. You can also register to vote by bringing your photo identification and proof of residence.

Depending on where you live, races will include the Wisconsin Supreme Court, county boards, municipal boards and school boards. Southern Door School District residents will also vote on an operational referendum.

Election Day is April 7.

When 3 p.m. finally hit Friday for Ephraim Maintenance Supervisor Justin MacDonald, he was more than happy to call it a week.

It was last Sunday when local municipalities joined the Door County Highway Department in their efforts to keep roads open during a blizzard that dumped more than 30 inches of snow in some parts of the area.

Despite their efforts, parts of State Highway 42 had to be closed because heavy snow and drifting proved too much for road crews to keep up with.

It was not for a lack of effort, as MacDonald estimates that he — and likely others — spent about 80 hours last week just pushing snow.

As the fire chief for two departments, MacDonald said he slept in the village’s maintenance shop in case an emergency arose.

Eight years after the last “once-in-a-century storm,” MacDonald said he is proud of the work so many did over the last week to clean up after the blizzard.

Door County Highway Commissioner Thad Ash estimated Wednesday that storm cleanup would extend into this week as crews work to widen roads and push back snowbanks.

Assisting in their efforts has been Mother Nature, which has brought daily high temperatures above freezing since Thursday, including a few days in the 40s. As much as the heat will help, Ash could not say enough about his own crews that put in long days to fight against the storm.

Sturgeon Bay and Egg Harbor were two of the four communties to accumulate 33 or more inches of snow during the storm, trailing only Mountain's 34 inches for most snow. 

Following Blizzard Elsa, which dumped up to 30 inches of snow across parts of the peninsula last week, Door and Kewaunee Counties are being reminded of the importance of community preparedness. The storm caused widespread power outages, stranded motorists, and forced local agencies to respond to multiple emergencies.

Door County’s Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) program is now encouraging residents to take an active role in disaster readiness. CERT trains volunteers to safely assist their families, neighbors, and community during emergencies. Through classroom and hands-on instruction, participants learn basic medical care and first aid, search and rescue techniques, fire extinguisher use and safety, and disaster preparedness strategies for homes and neighborhoods.

The program’s next class is scheduled for this summer, and registration opens Thursday, March 20. If you are interested in volunteering, sign up by emailing JEB Saelens at jsaelens@co.door.wi.gov.

“Blizzard Elsa showed us how quickly conditions can become dangerous,” Saelens said. “CERT volunteers are equipped to make a real difference when every minute counts.”

With our recent severe weather event, getting trained through CERT not only strengthens personal preparedness but also builds a more resilient community across Door and Kewaunee counties.

The United Way of Door County is still awaiting word on what role it will play in assisting area U.S. Coast Guard families as the partial government shutdown continues.

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 affected by the shutdown. Democrats and Republicans continue to spar over funding related to Immigration and Customs Enforcement operations following a deadly incident involving federal agents in Minnesota earlier this year.

While some employees have been furloughed, essential personnel such as TSA agents and U.S. Coast Guard members have continued working. Unlike TSA workers, however, Coast Guard members have continued to be paid, albeit without congressional approval. How much longer that will continue is unclear, but United Way of Door County Executive Director Amy Kohnle says the organization will be ready if called upon to help.

While some donors have specifically earmarked their contributions for U.S. Coast Guard families, Kohnle says others are willing to allow those gift cards to be used for families in need if other emergencies arise.

Gift card donations can be dropped off at the United Way offices on Third Avenue in Sturgeon Bay.

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.

We at Crossroads at Big Creek are preparing for the sucker run, so it may seem odd that our family programs this week will feature rocks and geology. The connection, however, is direct. Without the Ice Age glaciers, the Great Lakes and their freshwater fisheries would not exist.

Rocks and fossils also play an important role in fish spawning in our creeks. Very soon, fish will leave the big lake and swim upstream because tributaries provide optimal breeding habitat. While northern pike move through streams on their way to warm, shallow wetlands—and even flooded fields with emergent vegetation—suckers (and trout) favor gravel-bottomed creeks.

The reason the creeks contain so much gravel goes back to the glaciers. During the last Ice Age, massive ice sheets moved south, crushing mountains and gouging out bedrock. The weight and movement of the ice ground rock into smaller pieces. When the glaciers melted, they deposited what geologists call “till,” a mixture of clay, sand, gravel, and pebbles.

Since the last glacial retreat, much of the finer silt and sand in local tributaries has gradually been washed downstream, leaving behind harder materials such as dolomite—often containing fossils—along with chert and igneous rocks carried south by the glaciers. Over many years, flowing water and weather have rounded these stones into pebbles.

These pebbles create ideal spawning gravel. Fish eggs slip into the spaces between the stones, where they are protected from many predators and are less likely to be smothered by silt. For spawning fish and their developing young, these rocky streambeds greatly increase survival, making tributary creeks especially valuable nursery habitat.

Fish benefit greatly from these rock-filled tributaries, but they also give back, enriching the ecosystems that sustain them.

As fish move upstream, they transfer nutrients—especially nitrogen and phosphorus—from the lake into the stream. These nutrients enter the system through eggs and milt, as well as through natural waste.

Through their foraging and energetic spawning activity, fish also stir up nutrients from the sediment and release them into the water, where they become available to aquatic plants and algae that form the base of the stream’s food web. Other wildlife feed on fish eggs, fry, and spawning adults, further linking these seasonal migrations to the broader ecosystem.

So there really will be something a little fishy about our Nature Investigators Rock Festival at 3:30 on Thursday and the Saturday Science Fossil Hunt at 10:00.

Also at 10:00 on Saturday, Habitat Healers—the Crossroads volunteers dedicated to restoration—will start the growing season with a session of “Live Stake Harvesting,” in which they will cut willow and dogwood twigs to be placed in buckets of water and planted at a later date.

And while it is early for suckers, this is about the time we begin seeing northern pike moving through Big Creek on their way to mucky wetlands, ditches, and flooded fields. Our trails along the creek and throughout the preserve are open and free of charge all day, every day.

Thursday, March 26

3:30 pm – Nature Investigators: Rock Festival

Geared for school-age kids and families, this week we investigate the characteristics of major rock types through hands-on science and music. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads at Big Creek, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay.

Saturday, March 28

10:00 am – Habitat Healers: Live Stake Harvesting

Help our restoration team harvest willow and dogwood stakes for future planting. No experience necessary; all ages welcome. Waterproof boots and loppers recommended. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads at Big Creek, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay.

Saturday, March 28

10:00 am – Saturday Science: Fossil Hunt

A family-friendly hunt for Silurian fossils. Rain or shine (we’ll move indoors if needed). Geared toward elementary students but open to all. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads at Big Creek, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay.

The Kewaunee County Public Health Department is partnering with Prevea Health to offer a free skin cancer screening event aimed at raising awareness and promoting early detection.

The screening will take place Saturday, April 11, from 8:30 a.m. to noon at the Luxemburg Health Center. Medical professionals will provide spot checks, review warning signs of skin cancer and offer guidance on protecting skin from harmful ultraviolet exposure.

Health officials note that skin cancer affects an estimated one in five people during their lifetime, making prevention and early diagnosis critical.

“The single best way to protect yourself is to use sunscreen any time that you are outdoors,” said Cindy Kinnard, director of the Kewaunee County Public Health Department. “The sun is out year-round, so we need UV protection in every season.”

The event is open to residents of all ages in Kewaunee County and surrounding communities. Appointments are required and can be scheduled by calling 920-388-7160.

Whether you are registering for school, finding a job, getting married, or applying for a passport or driver’s license, having your birth certificate on hand will make the process easier.

The topic of having your birth certificate has been pushed further into the forefront due to the battle on Capitol Hill over the SAVE Act, which, if it becomes law, would require voters to present proof of citizenship when registering to vote.

According to the Brennan Center for Justice, at least 3.8 million Americans do not have documents like a passport, naturalization papers or a birth certificate because they were lost, destroyed or stolen.

Door County Register of Deeds Carey Petersilka says her office has seen an uptick in traffic in recent years due to the transition to Real ID, which is federally compliant and required to board domestic flights, enter secure federal buildings and visit military bases.

If you were born in Wisconsin, Petersilka says $20 and a few minutes to fill out an application are all you will need to get a copy of your birth certificate.

She adds that it is the same process for marriage certificates.

If you were born outside Wisconsin, Petersilka says her office can help guide you through the process, but you will have to contact that state to get your records.

You can learn more about the process and file the necessary paperwork to get your birth certificate here.

As I write this article, we are digging ourselves out of a record-breaking snowstorm. I haven’t seen any of the formal snow totals, but regardless of the final accumulation numbers, it was one to remember. For many, it was a time to pause our normally busy lives, as mobility was not an option. For some, it was business as usual, and the snow and wind did not change the reality of the work that needed to be done. It is times like these that we appreciate those who choose careers of necessity.

First and foremost, we owe a debt of gratitude to our emergency services. Everyone from the dispatchers who are there 24/7 to take the calls (and there were a lot of calls!), to our patrol deputies, who maintained vigilance and responded without hesitation. To our community members serving with area fire, rescue, and first responder agencies, who braved the storm for the sake of those in crisis. Finally, and maybe most significantly, those who work to keep our roads clear. They started their efforts early Saturday, and many are still on the job. They have been working to open roads that were impassable to an extent many have not seen before. Between clearing roads in total whiteout conditions and providing assistance to those who found themselves stranded throughout the storm, their patience and professionalism seemed endless.

The second observation is how such a storm did, in fact, bring out the best in our community. Those who had the mechanical resources could be seen darting from one location to the next, helping those who found themselves overwhelmed. They did not do this for income or even recognition, but rather simply because this is who we are.

While I wouldn’t wish such a storm on any of us in the future, I will share the message I give to students when I teach resiliency: I wish you adversity, for it is only through adversity that we realize not only what we are capable of, but also the amazing people we have right here in our midst—people we too often take for granted.

Stay positive!

Whether it is an animal, a plant or something in between, Sevastopol agriculture teacher Ann Glowacki brings it all into the classroom for students to experience firsthand.

Glowacki’s classroom is home to not just nine different course offerings — including nursery and landscaping, veterinary science, animal science and floriculture — but also the school’s nursery, a pair of guinea pigs, three chinchillas and a few reptiles that students care for throughout the year.

The path to Glowacki’s classroom did not start at Sevastopol or even at Southern Door, where she taught previously, but rather at West De Pere High School. There, Glowacki knew she wanted to be an agriculture teacher thanks to her own teacher during her sophomore year.

Glowacki’s favorite part of the job is that no two days or classes are the same. The UW-River Falls graduate says she is often learning right along with her students, whether it be creating floral arrangements for the stars of the school’s recent production of “The Wizard of Oz,” growing flowers for its spring plant sale or cultivating lettuce to be used in the school cafeteria. She hopes students gain the hands-on experience they need to make future career choices.

While her work with students takes her around the country as the school’s FFA adviser, Glowacki’s teaching will go international in 2027 when she leads students on a trip to Germany, France and Italy. You can watch our full interview with Glowacki as part of the Door County Farm Bureau’s “Ask a Farmer” series below.

You can find one of the newest additions to the State Register of Historic Places off the shoreline of the Town of Liberty Grove. The F.J. King shipwreck was one of five additions to the list announced by the Wisconsin Historical Society last week.

Constructed in Toledo, Ohio, in 1867, the F.J. King was used for the coal and grain trade between Lake Michigan and the rest of the Great Lakes. In September 1886, the F.J. King met its fate when it sprang a leak while carrying iron ore from Escanaba, Michigan, to Chicago and sank near Door County.

Principal Investigator Brendon Baillod and a group of 20 citizen scientists and community historians discovered the vessel last June and showed off their discovery last September at a presentation hosted by the Door County Maritime Museum. Friends of Plum and Pilot Islands’ Capt. Stiles Meredith and Capt. Scott Nelson were at the controls of their organization’s boat, The Shoreline, when the discovery was made.

They said that they had always wanted to be part of an expedition to discover a shipwreck, and they are still amazed that their goal has been realized.

According to the Wisconsin Historical Society, the F.J. King remains very intact and has not been visited by divers outside of the initial surveys. Thanks to thousands of pictures taken during the discovery, you can explore the F.J. King via 3D virtual reality tours using an Oculus VR headset.

One person was injured in a two-vehicle crash Thursday evening at a busy Sturgeon Bay intersection, police said.

Officers were dispatched at about 6:44 p.m. to the intersection of Highway 42/57 and South Neenah Avenue for a report of an injury crash. According to the Sturgeon Bay Police Department, a southbound pickup truck entered the intersection and struck a sport utility vehicle traveling north through a green light.

The pickup driver, a 66-year-old man from Sturgeon Bay, was transported to Door County Medical Center with suspected minor injuries. Police said the driver appeared confused at the scene and could not recall basic information.

The other driver reported minor chest discomfort from airbag deployment but was not hospitalized.

Witnesses told police that sun glare may have contributed to the crash. The pickup driver was cited for failing to stop at a red light.

The Sturgeon Bay High School softball program will host its first Jim Benesh Memorial Fundraiser later this spring, combining competition on the field with support for a local cause.

The event is scheduled for April 28 at 4 p.m. at PBI Field, in Sturgeon Bay, where the Clippers will take on the Southern Door Eagles in a doubleheader. Organizers say the fundraiser aims to raise awareness for multiple myeloma while supporting those impacted by cancer.

Proceeds from the event will largely benefit Door CANcer, with 95 %t going toward assisting local individuals in their cancer journeys. The remaining 5 % will support the softball program.

Sturgeon Bay Athletic Director Johnathan Dupuis credited head coach Hailey Benesh for launching the effort.

“Coach Benesh came up with the idea last year. Being her first year as head coach, we put a pause on it until this year,” Dupuis said. “She really got everything up and running already for the game on April 28th.”

“We are very excited to begin a new annual tradition that gives back to the community.”

For more information please visit the Sturgeon Bay High School website,  or follow their Social Media pages for updates.

The former CenterPointe Showroom on Sturgeon Bay’s east side is set to take on new life as an event venue known as “The Boathouse,” following approval by the city’s Aesthetic Design and Site Plan Review Board on March 9.

Located on South 1st Avenue near the Maple-Oregon Street Bridge, the property will undergo a series of exterior improvements aimed at enhancing its connection to the surrounding waterfront district. Plans submitted include cedar shake siding, as well as accent lighting, illuminated wall signage, a new entry canopy, and the conversion of an existing window into a doorway.

Board Chairman Rick Wiesner said the building is already well-suited for its new purpose, noting that “not much work needs to be done on the inside, it was fairly nice already.” He added that the project fills a key need in the community, calling it “widely needed for Sturgeon Bay… a beautiful wedding venue down by the water.”

The venue is expected to host events of up to 500 people and will operate without a commercial kitchen. “There will be no commercial kitchen, the venue will have to be 100% catered,” Wiesner said, indicating outside vendors will provide food service for all events.

Wiesner also noted that the venue will be “a little larger than the similar venue across the bridge,” potentially making it an attractive option for larger gatherings. However, he acknowledged that parking could present a challenge. “One thing to think about is parking,” he said. “There is not a lot of parking there, one large event will take all of the parking spaces downtown near there.”

Wiesner says the project represents a positive addition to Sturgeon Bay’s waterfront, bringing new opportunities for events, tourism, and economic activity to the Downtown Sturgeon Bay Hub.

For more information, please visit The Boathouse Events website.

During a week that includes St. Patrick’s Day and the opening weekend of the NCAA Tournament, trying to avoid activities involving alcohol is often easier said than done.

The premise may be even harder to fathom in Wisconsin, where 41 of the 50 heaviest-drinking counties in the country are located, according to data from County Health Rankings & Roadmaps, produced by the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation and the University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute.

As a result, the state’s drinking culture can have an impact on a person’s health beyond impairment or hangovers. Door County Medical Center licensed clinical social worker Ally Bretl says many people feel they have to drink to fit in, which can lead to higher anxiety, strained relationships and social isolation. She adds that in a state like Wisconsin, where drinking is part of the social fabric, it can be difficult for some people to manage.

Bretl encourages people to reframe the situations they are in — whether it’s a tailgate or a family party — and shift the focus away from alcohol.

Bretl also encourages people to reach out to her, or to their own health care provider, if alcohol is affecting their physical or mental health or straining their relationships.

Mailing a letter to friends and neighbors could soon cost nearly a dollar if the United States Postal Service gets its way. Earlier this week, Postmaster General David Steiner proposed raising the price of a first-class stamp from 78 cents to between 90 and 95 cents.

If approved, it would be the eighth price increase the USPS has implemented on first-class stamps. The price was 55 cents in August 2021 before rising to 58 cents. Since then, stamp prices have increased by 2 to 3 cents each time, often twice a year.

According to CBS News, Steiner said the increase could help address some of the agency’s financial woes, as it is running a $9 billion deficit. He told a congressional panel the USPS is at risk of running out of cash within 12 months if it cannot sell more products, cut additional costs and raise prices.

Even with the increase, stamp prices would still be lower than in countries such as Canada, Brazil, Italy and the United Kingdom.

Looking at fields in Door and Kewaunee counties, there was a lot of activity aimed at accomplishing more than feeding and bedding animals or selling on the open market. Peninsula Pride Farms released its 2025 conservation progress report, highlighting the impact its 64 members had on water and soil conservation by implementing practices such as cover crops, no-till planting and split-nitrogen application.

In 2025, 331,559 acres were covered by conservation practices implemented by Peninsula Pride Farms members. That’s the third-highest total since the organization began tracking in 2019, with 2022 (388,789 acres) and 2021 (371,783 acres) as the only higher years.

The organization estimates that, because of those practices, phosphorus runoff was reduced by more than 72,000 pounds, sediment erosion decreased by more than 51,000 tons, and carbon dioxide emissions were reduced by approximately 5,600 metric tons.

Snow has played a large role in which practices can be used this season. A Thanksgiving snowfall prevented some farmers from getting out into their fields to plant cover crops late last year, and they will now have to wait for 20 to 30 inches of snow to melt before meaningful fieldwork can begin this year.

The Sturgeon Bay Breakfast Rotary Club will host its 19th annual Trivia Night this Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Masonic Lodge in downtown Sturgeon Bay, continuing a long-standing community fundraiser with a new focus this year.

Teams of up to eight players will test their knowledge across a variety of topics while supporting local students. Proceeds from the event will benefit Door County High School Fine Arts Awards Scholarships.

Rotary member, event co-organizer, and emcee Paul Schmitt said the event offers both entertainment and a cause. “The $25.00 per person includes delicious appetizers and beverages, and goes to a really great cause this year.” He said.

Participation is limited, and Schmitt encourages early registration.

The event begins at 7 p.m., with registration opening at 6:30 p.m. The annual trivia night continues to be a popular way for the community to come together while supporting educational opportunities for local students.  

Bob Ryan can be reached at 920-493-4009 or call Paul Schmitt at 920-493-6635 to register.

While many members of the Wisconsin Legislature are celebrating some of their legislative wins this week, there is still one they would like to nail down before the end of the calendar year. Democrats and Republicans continue to negotiate terms for a deal that would address property tax relief.

According to a February Marquette University Law School poll, 49% of the more than 800 people who responded said they were “very concerned” about their property taxes, and another 29% were “somewhat concerned.”

According to Wisconsin Public Radio, Democrats have proposed spending $1.3 billion of the state’s $2.5 billion surplus on education, a major driver in many people’s tax bills increasing this year. While the bill’s author, state Rep. Angelina Cruz, said the increased school funding could reduce property taxes, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos said it amounts to more spending without accountability.

Earlier this month, state Rep. Joel Kitchens said he hopes property tax relief is something lawmakers can address before the November election.

Even though the legislative year is over for the Wisconsin State Assembly, Vos said it would reconvene for a special session if a deal is struck with Gov. Tony Evers. Even with that legislative win hanging in the balance, Kitchens took time this week to celebrate some of his bills that are heading to Evers’ desk for his signature.

Bills addressing the state’s Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) participants, PFAS contamination, battery recovery and fire prevention, the Wisconsin GI Bill, and drone bans all passed the state Senate.

The Door County Highway Department hopes to restore full access to area roads for residents by the end of the day Thursday.

Department officials issued their third update of the week Wednesday, as snowplow drivers have been working since Sunday to clear the county following record snowfall that brought more than 30 inches to some areas.

In some cases, highway department workers have had to rely on graders and loaders to break down and remove large snowbanks and drifts caused by heavy snowfall and wind gusts exceeding 50 mph. Towing stranded vehicles has also slowed snow removal efforts.

While motorists are expected to regain access to all county roads by the end of the day, officials acknowledge that not every road will be able to support two lanes of traffic.

Drivers are encouraged to travel with caution in these areas, especially on hills and curves.

It is estimated that it will take until next week to widen roads and push back snowbanks.

The full update can be read below.

The Village of Ephraim is moving forward with a plan to address a growing population of geese along its shoreline, including the possible capture of adult birds during the June molting season.

At a recent Community Protection Committee meeting, officials reviewed a proposal from the U.S. Department of Agriculture that would require a public hearing before implementation. Village leaders say the geese contribute to increased maintenance demands and elevated E. coli levels in local waters.

Committee members pointed to similar efforts in Fish Creek, where a roundup program has been successful. Officials also discussed donating captured birds to food pantries, though additional testing would be required. Partnering with nearby communities could help reduce costs through shared resources.

Members, including John Cox and Hart, supported the plan after other deterrent methods proved ineffective. The committee agreed to move ahead with a public hearing and explore regional cooperation.

Communities across Door County continue to face similar challenges. In Sturgeon Bay, officials have taken a year-by-year approach to goose management. City leaders have worked with the USDA on roundups, including one effort that captured more than 250 birds, while also covering processing costs to donate usable meat to local food pantries.

The 2026 Wisconsin State YMCA Gymnastics Championships will bring roughly 1,200 athletes to Bay Port High School near Green Bay, from March 27–29, marking one of the largest events of its kind in the state. 

Nikki Pollman, Director and head coach of the Strivers Gymnastics Team at the Sturgeon Bay YMCA campus, said the season is nearing its peak. “We are 3/4 of the way through the season, and have one big meet left,” Pollman said.

Pollman, who has led the program for 30 years since her coaching days at De Pere High School, said the scale of the state competition continues to grow. “We have about 1,200 gymnasts competing at state this year,” she said. “We’ve outgrown hosting tournaments that size.”

The Green Bay YMCA’s Gymnastics team will technically be the home team, though the sheer size of the State tournament requires it to be held at Bayport High’s gymnasium.  Pollman says that while the meet reflects continued growth in youth gymnastics, it also presents logistical challenges. Volunteers are still being sought to assist with everything from event operations to concessions and admissions.

To accommodate demand, organizers will run multiple events simultaneously. “We’ll have three consecutive meets going on at once with four or five rounds in each one a day,” Pollman said. “It is a really big endeavor.”

For more information please visit the Door County YMCA’s website.

Door County officials have declared a state of emergency following a powerful winter storm that struck the area March 14-17, bringing heavy snow, strong winds and dangerous travel conditions.

The storm, identified as Blizzard Elsa, caused widespread disruptions across the county, including snow-covered and drifted roadways, downed trees and scattered power outages. Emergency crews continue to respond to incidents while working to restore essential services.

County Administrator Ken Pabich issued the emergency declaration under Wisconsin statutes, citing conditions that have impaired transportation and other critical services. The move allows the county to fully mobilize resources, coordinate with municipal and state agencies, and accelerate response and recovery efforts.

Door County Emergency Management Director Jeb Saelens said, “This storm has significantly impacted our communities. Declaring a state of emergency ensures we can continue to respond quickly, support our municipalities, and protect the safety of residents and visitors as recovery efforts continue.”

Recovery efforts remain ongoing, though officials warn it may take time for conditions to stabilize and for all roads to be cleared. You are urged to avoid unnecessary travel and give emergency responders and public works crews room to operate safely as cleanup continues.

Drivers across Door and Kewaunee counties are feeling the pinch at the pump as fuel prices continue rising in March amid ongoing global tensions and recovery from Blizzard Elsa.

According to AAA data, the average price for a gallon of regular gasoline in Door County is about $3.29, while nearby Brown and Kewaunee counties report averages around $3.30 and $3.27 per gallon, respectively, up sharply over recent weeks.

Diesel remains significantly higher, with national averages approaching roughly $5.00 per gallon as supply disruptions linked to the ongoing conflict involving Iran continue to ripple through energy markets.

In addition to geopolitical influences, this weekend’s major Blizzard that swept across Northeast Wisconsin could secondarily affect fuel demand and delivery. White-out conditions marked by historic snowfall and strong winds, can slow travel and disrupt local fuel deliveries, leading to short-term supply bottlenecks at certain stations and temporary price spikes in the immediate aftermath.

Drivers on the peninsula should compare prices at nearby stations; some of Door County's lowest recent pump prices have been spotted in Sturgeon Bay, while Algoma and the city of Kewaunee often report some of the most competitive pricing in Kewaunee County. 

Fuel prices could remain volatile in the coming days and weeks as the situation in the Middle East evolves and weather-related logistics continue to recover from the blizzard’s impact.

If the weekend blizzard is making a deeper impact on your life than just sore muscles from shoveling snow, help may soon be on the way.

United Way of Door County Executive Director Amy Kohnle says its board of directors will meet later this week to decide how the organization can support the community after more than 30 inches of snow fell in the area. Currently, its emergency response fund, which has been used for other disaster-related scenarios, does not include blizzards.

Lost wages due to work closures, unexpected snow removal bills and broken-down equipment are some of the issues people could be facing as a result of the blizzard. All could have a greater impact on the area’s ALICE (asset-limited, income-constrained, employed) population.

Kohnle says a portion of the organization’s annual campaign is set aside each year for moments like these, giving it added flexibility to assist people in times of need.

Kohnle says the organization will announce how it will assist those affected by the blizzard later this week. For now, she has been tracking different ways to help people, especially those who are snowed in or lack reliable transportation.

While you dig out your driveway, motorists who tried to brave the elements on area roadways over the weekend must now dig out their vehicles.

More than 70 reports of vehicles in ditches were received by the Door County Sheriff’s Department between midnight Sunday and 7 a.m. Tuesday. 511 Wisconsin listed Door County’s major thoroughfares as “travel not advised” for much of the storm and still listed them as “completely covered” as of 11 a.m. Tuesday.

The tow ban, which did not expire until Monday, left many vehicles encased in snow until Tuesday. Door County Sheriff’s Department Chief Deputy Kyle Veeser says tow trucks were operating at their own discretion, adding that some situations may require deputies to assist with traffic control depending on the location.

Due to the depth of the snow and the availability of tow truck drivers, Veeser says there is no strict timeline for when vehicles must be removed. However, he noted that once a vehicle receives an orange tag, the owner has 24 hours to move it. Motorists should use caution while on the roads while vehicles are being pulled out.

The Door County Sheriff’s Department will release a full report on its response to the blizzard later this week.

Wisconsin Public Service hopes you will be able to heat your home, cook a hot meal and watch some college basketball before Wednesday arrives.

WPS workers have restored power to more than 11,000 customers across the state since storms began hitting the area Friday. Shortly before noon, just under 500 WPS customers in Door County were still without power after outages peaked at more than 1,500 on Monday.

Crews were met with whiteout conditions, treacherous roads and more than 2 feet of snow, but WPS spokesperson Matthew Cullen says their equipment allows them to slow down rather than stop completely in conditions like these.

The hope is that the remaining customers without power will have it back by Tuesday evening. Cullen reminds residents to stay at least 25 feet away from downed wires and to report them immediately to WPS or local law enforcement.

During the storm, the Door County Sheriff’s Department received approximately 10 reports of downed wires as the area was pelted with heavy snow and wind gusts exceeding 50 mph.

The Door Peninsula Astronomical Society (DPAS) is hosting a full lineup of free astronomy programs this March at its Astronomy Campus in Sturgeon Bay, offering residents several opportunities to explore the night sky and learn more about space science.

“Looking at our events calendar and the different places we are going to go are fantastic,” said Coggin Heeringa from Crossroads at Big Creek in Sturgeon Bay. “We have a lot happening this month.”

On March 21st, DPAS will host its monthly Night Sky Viewing Night. The event begins with a planetarium show highlighting deep-sky objects and, weather permitting, continues at the Leif Everson Observatory for a “Messier Half-Marathon.” Participants will attempt to locate as many objects as possible from the Messier catalog — a list of 110 galaxies, nebulae, and star clusters compiled by 18th-century French astronomer Charles Messier.

Beyond public programs, DPAS continues to expand its educational outreach throughout Door County.

“We use our planetarium, do programs for groups and kids,” Heeringa said. “We’ve done Algoma; we’re even doing STEAM Night in Sturgeon Bay.”

The organization is also visiting Sunrise School, Pinecrest, the Boys & Girls Club of Door County and Southern Door schools this month as part of its outreach efforts.

Heeringa says community interest in astronomy programs has remained strong.

“We have a lot of people coming to our meetings and open domes,” she said.

Occasionally, the society will also schedule “Open Dome” stargazing events during especially clear nights. Updates on those opportunities are posted on DPAS social media pages.

For more information about upcoming programs and events, visit the DPAS website or stop by the Astronomy Campus in Sturgeon Bay.

There have been basketball games, T-shirts, bake sales, parades and more, but the latest way to support two Sevastopol students fighting cancer involves your dancing shoes.

The Sevastopol National Honor Society is partnering with Hype Dance Studio to host a dance-a-thon inside the high school gym this Saturday from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. Participants are collecting pledges to raise money to support the families of Lucia Ramirez and Violet Tanck.

Sevastopol third grader Violet Tanck was recently diagnosed with a rare form of Ewing sarcoma. She 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.

Lucia Ramirez, also a third grader, was in second grade when she was diagnosed with acute lymphoblastic leukemia. After her diagnosis was changed from standard to high risk, she has gone through months of intense chemotherapy, steroids, lumbar punctures and bone marrow tests, while also suffering from infections and low immune counts.

You can find more details about the dance-a-thon and how you can support the Sevastopol National Honor Society’s efforts below.

After one of the biggest blizzards ever recorded in northeast Wisconsin, residents can once again conduct business at the Door County Government Center and Kewaunee County Administration Center. Both county governments shut down as a result of the storm, which dumped more than 20 inches in Kewaunee and 33 inches in Sturgeon Bay.

Door County’s nonessential services resumed at 10 a.m. Tuesday. Because of road conditions, Kewaunee County residents had to wait a little longer, with the Administration Center reopening at noon Tuesday.

Highway department and emergency personnel were among the essential workers who remained on duty over the past few days. While schools are still closed, many businesses, nonprofit organizations and others are returning to normal after closing or limiting hours due to the storm.

Visit our cancellations page to see other businesses and organizations that are closed or delaying opening Tuesday.

While high winds and deep snow kept most people at home Sunday and Monday, some professions could not take the day off.

The highway departments in Door and Kewaunee counties got only a few hours off Sunday night into early Monday morning before the next round of snow and wind hit the area. It will likely be the same story for Monday evening with clean-up efforts likely taking until Tuesday or Wednesday to complete.

As of 2:35 p.m., more than 1,500 Door County residents were without power due to the heavy snow and rain. The number statewide stood at over 2,100, but the linesmen for Wisconsin Public Service have restored power to more than 4,500 customers affected by the storm. WPS Spokesperson Matthew Cullen says the company is blessed to have a crew dedicated to getting the lights back on for thousands of Wisconsinites.

According to Door County Sheriff’s Department Captain Carl Waterstreet, several people had to be removed from vehicles that slid into ditches, while Door County Emergency Medical Services made a few perilous drives from Door County Medical Center to Green Bay for potentially life-saving care. Even local fire departments were out in the community, helping homeowners dig out furnace intake pipes, gas meters and other equipment to ensure safety. Waterstreet says it takes a team effort to get through a storm like this.

It takes a team effort for the animals, too. Jeremy Heim of Heim’s Hillcrest Dairy in Algoma says his team has worked hard to keep roads open so milk can be transported to the cheese plant in Denmark and feed can be brought into barns for the cows.

Team members have also picked up other employees for shifts and towed people out of ditches. Heim says he is thankful for the support of his team to ensure their animals are cared for during the storm.

Door County Medical Center had some of its operations shut down for the snowstorm, but some employees spent the night at the hospital to make sure that if patients needed them, they were available. Emergency room doctors and nurses, surgeons, lab technicians, and more were on site for when their moment to shine arrived. Door County Medical Center President and CEO Brian Stephens says they showed what it means to be a healthcare professional.

Schools, businesses and nonprofit organizations may face a second day of cancellations and postponements as cleanup continues. You can find a list of cancellations at this link.

Depending on where they go to school, some students may get an early spring break before their scheduled one. The school districts of Southern Door, Sturgeon Bay, Kewaunee, and Algoma all canceled classes for Tuesday before 1:30 p.m. Monday. Gibraltar, Washington Island, and Luxemburg-Casco are already on spring break this week.

Kewaunee School District Superintendent Scott Fritz says that with Tuesday being their fourth snow day of the school year, they will make up the day lost in May. Some school districts in the state will use virtual learning to keep their students on schedule, but Fritz adds that connectivity issues throughout the county made the built-in snow day a better option for them.

It marks the second straight day schools have been closed due to the winter storm. According to the National Weather Service, more than a foot of snow has fallen across the area, with totals climbing to between 2 and 3 feet farther north.

Kewaunee has seen 11.5 inches of snow fall over the last 24 hours, while Algoma has received more than 20 inches. Sturgeon Bay and Egg Harbor have each recorded more than 33 inches.

The cities of Algoma and Kewaunee, the village of Sister Bay and the town of Gibraltar have all issued snow-related emergency orders as a result of the storm.

City Administrator Matt Murphy says the worst winter storm of his municipal service career is to blame for the cities of Algoma and Kewaunee extending their snow emergency orders until noon Thursday.

The original order was supposed to expire at 2 p.m. Monday, but continuous snowfall and high winds are impacting snow removal efforts in both communities.

During the snow emergency period, no vehicles are allowed to park on any city street, no overnight on-street parking permissions will be granted, and vehicles disobeying the order could be ticketed or towed.

Murphy, who was Algoma’s public works director before becoming city administrator for the two communities, says the length of the storm and the wind speeds are making this the worst storm he has seen. He hopes residents and visitors stay home if possible so crews can clean up the snow more effectively.

Murphy says the cities will cancel the snow emergency earlier if possible. The Town of Gibraltar and the Village of Sister Bay issued their own state of emergency orders on Monday, calling for residents to stay home due to extreme snowfall, drifting and blocked roadways.

Ensuring your family’s safety during a significant winter storm does not have to involve going outside. Snowfall totals as high as 24 inches were reported in Sturgeon Bay and Sister Bay after the first round of snow went through on Sunday. The National Weather Service says that winds gusting to 50 mph could create blizzard or near-blizzard conditions, as well as cause power outages and add to the widespread travel disruptions. 

While accidents could occur while removing snow or sledding, your home presents its own concerns. Snow drifts can pile up against your house, potentially blocking intake pipes used to support your HVAC system. Jeff Blemke of Ultimate Air in Luxemburg advises checking those intake pipes on a regular basis for the sake of your unit and your family.

Fire departments are also advising against makeshift options to heat your homes. Sister Bay/Liberty Grove Fire Chief Michael Goldstone says you should never use generators, grills, camp stoves or propane heaters inside homes, garages or enclosed spaces because of the threat of carbon monoxide poisoning.

You can follow Door County Emergency Management and Kewaunee County Emergency Management online to learn more about possible warming shelters in case you lose power.

Even with roads impassable in some spots, Door County Emergency Management is keeping at least two warming shelters open on the peninsula. After a brief break Sunday night from nearly two feet of snow, the winter storm packed a second punch on Monday with several more inches of snow and wind gusts over 50 mph. That left hundreds of people without power for much of the day Sunday, with outages climbing above 1,100 as of 9:30 a.m.Door County Emergency Management Director Jeb Saelens says a couple and their dog took advantage of the shelter locations, which are at the Sister Bay/Liberty Grove Fire Department and the Gibraltar Fire Department. He says those shelters will remain open for the duration of the storm, but advised people to stay off the roads unless necessary.

Saelens estimates additional warming shelters will open as the storm progresses. The Door County Sheriff’s Department sent out a public safety alert Monday morning strongly urging residents to stay off the roads unless there is an emergency. Highway crews and emergency responders are working to address conditions, but snow and blocked roads may significantly delay response times.

No animals or people were hurt when a Kewaunee County barn partially collapsed Sunday as the winter storm tightened its grip on northeast Wisconsin.

According to WFRV-TV in Green Bay, the roof of Junion Homestead Dairy in Casco caved in on its holding area under the weight of the snow at about 9:30 a.m.

Junion Homestead Dairy dates back to 1868, with six generations helping with daily operations. The farm celebrated its 150th anniversary in 2018, welcoming thousands of visitors for the Kewaunee County Breakfast on the Farm.

Between 13 and 24 inches of snow fell across the region Sunday, with more expected Monday.

Door County officials say all nonessential county government operations will be closed Monday as a powerful winter storm moves across northeast Wisconsin.

County leaders announced Sunday that government locations and services will shut down March 16, with only essential operations continuing. Officials said the decision was made in response to historic winter storm Elsa, which is impacting the Door and Kewaunee County region with hazardous travel and heavy snow.

Emergency services and other critical functions will remain operational to protect public safety, according to the county. You are strongly urged to avoid all nonessential travel during the storm.

State officials are also ramping up emergency monitoring. Wisconsin Emergency Management elevated the State Emergency Operations Center in Madison to Level 3 at 9 a.m. Sunday to increase coordination and support for communities affected by the storm.

At that level, state agencies expand monitoring of conditions and provide assistance to local emergency managers if needed. Agencies involved include the Wisconsin State Patrol, Department of Natural Resources and Department of Health Services.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation says travel conditions are becoming increasingly dangerous across northeastern Wisconsin, including Door and Kewaunee counties. Officials say travel is not advised in many areas.

Emergency officials encourage residents to monitor local alerts, keep cell phones charged in case of power outages and check on neighbors, particularly older adults and those with limited mobility.

Motorists who become stranded are advised to stay in their vehicles, turn on hazard lights and call 911 for assistance.

Travel conditions and updates are available through the state’s 511 Wisconsin system and official transportation advisories.

With the U.S. Treasury minting its final penny last year, Door and Kewaunee County businesses are adjusting to cash transactions without the familiar copper coin, while state agencies offer guidance to protect consumers.

Some businesses are already rounding transactions to the nearest five cents, but methods vary. The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) and the Wisconsin Department of Revenue (DOR) recommend rounding down when possible to avoid negatively affecting customers. Cash rounding applies only when exact change cannot be provided, and notices of rounding policies should be clearly posted.

At The Country Cupboard in Algoma, the practice hasn’t caused much concern. “We still give change. If they have pennies, we’ll take ’em; if we have pennies, we’ll give ’em,” said the store’s staff. “I think we’d be rounding up, but as a small business, we’ll keep a roll on hand."

"It’s a little blown out of proportion, and I don’t think it’s anything to lose sleep over.  We’ll just have to deal with it. If pennies run out eventually, we’ll just have a little bucket, you know, ‘take a penny, give a penny’ sort of thing." She added.

DOR notes cash rounding does not affect sales tax collection or remittance. State guidance and resources for cash rounding and sales tax are available on DATCP and DOR websites.

It may be snowing outside, but dairy farmers know that some of their most valuable employees are still working inside. Robotic milking systems have allowed farmers to tend to other tasks, like snow removal on days that are less than ideal, while their cows continue producing milk for cheese and other products.

It is part of a growing trend, according to AgDaily, which estimates that 5% of dairy operations nationwide have robotic milking systems for their herds, covering about 1,000 dairy farms. These systems not only lend a helping hand in a tight labor market, but also collect data on each cow to ensure they are producing normally and staying healthy.

CVF Dairy owner Jason Staats says the family opted to go with robotic milking in 2024 as they found it hard and harder to find people to work at the farm, especially during the busy tourist season. Even though he admits that it does not keep him away from the barn, Staats says their robotic milking system allows them to lead a much more normal life than their parents, especially during busier times like winter blizzards, spring planting and fall harvest.

Staats says lowering the curtains in their climate-controlled barn, running its robotic feed push and using its water beds help keep their 400-plus-cow herd happy and healthy not just during the winter, but all year.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation is urging motorists to stay off the roads across much of northeast Wisconsin as life-threatening blizzard conditions move through the region.

Transportation officials issued a “Do Not Travel” advisory for nine counties: Brown, Calumet, Door, Fond du Lac, Kewaunee, Marinette, Oconto, Outagamie and Winnebago. The agency’s Northeast Region includes 11 counties; conditions in Manitowoc and Sheboygan counties remain hazardous but have not yet reached the same critical level.

Officials say heavy snowfall, whiteout visibility and high winds are rapidly worsening travel conditions on highways, rural roads and secondary routes. Authorities warn that travel may become impossible, increasing the risk of stranded vehicles and delaying emergency response.

The National Weather Service has issued a blizzard warning for the region through Monday.

In Door County, Door County Medical Center announced its clinics and direct care services will be closed Monday because of the storm. Hospital officials said the facility’s Emergency Department will remain open 24 hours a day for urgent medical needs.

Motorists are encouraged to stay home and monitor road conditions through the state’s 511 system for updates.

The Village of Egg Harbor will hold a public hearing Monday to consider historic designation for two well-known local properties.

The Village Architectural Review and Historic Designation Board is scheduled to meet at 1 p.m. March 16 at the Paul J. Bertschinger Community Center. The meeting will also be available virtually through Zoom.

Board members will consider granting local historic designation to the buildings at 7843 State Highway 42 (Harbor Haus) and 7821 State Highway 42 (Greens N Grains). The review is being conducted under the village’s historic preservation ordinance.

Peninsula residents and other interested parties are invited to provide comments during the hearing either in person or through Zoom. In-person testimony will be taken first, followed by those participating online via video.

The board is expected to deliberate on the potential historic designations during its regular public meeting immediately following the hearing.

We are well into meteorological spring, and this week we celebrate the Vernal Equinox—the astronomical first day of spring.

While spring green-up and wildflowers are still weeks away, at Crossroads we will spend the week exploring one of the most important processes of the spring season: the activity taking place below the surface. Soil, soil organisms, and groundwater recharge quietly shape the health of our landscapes long before leaves appear on the trees.

As the ground moves through its late-winter freeze and thaw cycles, important changes occur underground. Ice expands and contracts, opening tiny pores between soil particles. The hard seed coats of many plants are weakened by freezing and thawing so they can germinate when conditions are right. At the same time, countless soil organisms—from microbes to invertebrates—begin stirring just as snow melts and spring rains become more frequent. As with everything in nature, these processes are closely connected.

What happens to the water that arrives on the landscape in early spring? Sometimes it rushes across frozen ground, carrying valuable topsoil with it. At other times it slowly seeps into the soil, replenishing groundwater or collecting in wetlands where it can be stored and released gradually through the growing season.

Several Crossroads programs this week invite the public to explore these seasonal changes. The Afterschool Nature Investigators program on at 3:30 on Thursday, March 19 will look at how the lengthening daylight and the changing angle of the sun influence temperature and weather in our region. The Saturday Science program—geared for school-aged learners but engaging for all ages—will explore the formation and value of wetlands in a program called Where Water Meets Land.

The Monday Movie Matinee will feature the documentary The Beaver Believers, which shows how beavers help create and restore wetlands that store water, support wildlife, and strengthen natural ecosystems.

On Tuesday, March 24 at 7:00 p.m., the Door County Master Gardeners Association and Wild Ones–Door Peninsula will host Certified Soil Scientist Jamie Patton at the Collins Learning Center. Patton will explain that soil is not simply “dirt,” but a living system filled with communities of organisms that help keep gardens and landscapes healthy and properly hydrated.

Early spring is often damp, muddy, and unpredictable. At Crossroads, we see the season as an opportunity to better understand how water moves through the landscape—and how healthy soils and wetlands help make the most of the precipitation we receive.

And while it is not a Crossroads program, we also encourage the community to learn more about suckers from researcher Karen Murchie during Door County Science on Tap at Bridge Up Brewing Company at 6:00 p.m. on Thursday, March 19.

Thursday, March 19

3:30 PM – Nature Investigators: Day Length

Geared for school-age kids, this program will explore how day length and the angle of the sun affect nature. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

6:00 PM – Door County Science on Tap: “Suckers” with Karen Murchie of Shedd Aquarium

Bridge Up Brewing, 129 N Madison Ave., Sturgeon Bay. Stop by Bridge Up Brewing to learn about the fascinating spring migrations of suckers and the research being conducted to better understand them. Free and open to the public.

Saturday, March 21

10:00 AM – Science Saturdays: Where Water Meets Land

Learn about wetlands through a variety of interactive activities. This weekly family program is intended for elementary students, but learners of all ages are welcome. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Monday, March 23

1:30 PM – Monday Movie Matinee: The Beaver Believers

The Beaver Believers is an award-winning feature documentary sharing the urgent yet whimsical story of an unlikely cadre of activists: five scientists and a sassy, spicy hairdresser who recognize that North America’s most industrious rodent may hold the key to restoring wetlands, storing water, and reviving damaged ecosystems. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay

Tuesday, March 24

6:30 Master Gardener/Wild One Lecture: Soil Science in the Garden

Discover the bustling world beneath your feet! Soil isn’t just dirt—it’s a vibrant, living ecosystem teeming with activity. Every choice we make in the garden, from spring bed prep to the final harvest, shapes the underground communities that keep our soils healthy, resilient, and productive.Join Jamie Patton, Certified Professional Soil Scientist and lifelong soil enthusiast, as she brings more than 30 years of experience exploring the hidden wonders below ground. Together, we’ll dig into the fascinating lives of soil organisms and learn practical ways to nurture this “living underground” while growing delicious fruits, hearty vegetables, and beautiful ornamentals. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay

April has been officially recognized by U.S. Masters Swimming as “Adult Learn-to-Swim” month, drawing attention to the importance of water safety for adults. Each day in the United States, roughly ten adults drown, and research shows that if parents cannot swim, there is only a 20% chance their children will learn.

To help address this critical need, the Door County YMCA is offering adult swim lessons for individuals of all skill levels. Classes take place in the YMCA Peterson Aquatic Center’s recreation pool, using a variety of tools and techniques to build comfort, confidence, and essential water safety skills.

Mike McHugh, competitive swim director at the Sturgeon Bay campus YMCA, encourages adults to take advantage of these programs. “It’s never too late to learn to swim,” McHugh said. “These classes teach skills that can save your life and give you confidence to enjoy the water.”

The YMCA’s Spring Session Guide will be available starting Wednesday, April 1, with registration opening for members on Monday, April 13, and for non-members on Wednesday, April 15. Whether learning to swim for the first time or improving technique, the Door County YMCA provides a supportive environment for adults to gain water safety skills and confidence.

More program information is available on the Door County YMCA’s website.

St. Patrick’s Day came alive in Sturgeon Bay on Saturday as the annual parade wound through the downtown streets, with residents and visitors embracing the festive spirit before a winter storm moves in later in the evening.

The parade proceeded via Oak Street, moved down Madison Avenue, crossed the Michigan Street Bridge, continued down Third Avenue, and finished at Jefferson Street. Marchers, floats, and bagpipers brought a rainbow of color to the streets, with cheerful onlookers waving from sidewalks despite chilly, blustery conditions in the morning.

The 105.1 GOAT mobile cruised down the parade route while Bryan Mazur and Shelly Lau once again entertained listeners by broadcasting the parade live on U102.1.

Parade goers enjoyed the parade while they could, aware that severe weather warnings were in effect later Saturday evening. Forecasts predicted heavy snow and strong winds to arrive after sunset, with up to two feet of snow accumulation possible in some areas, creating potentially hazardous travel conditions.

For parade day, however, the mood remained lighthearted and whimsical, with children chasing candy, Irish dancers twirling, and even the occasional leprechaun sighting bringing smiles before the storm clouds roll in.

The Wisconsin Public Service (WPS) Foundation is helping local students take the next step in their education by offering technical college scholarships for high school seniors.

A total of $25,000 is available through this year’s program for students pursuing a one-year technical diploma or a two-year associate’s degree. Last year, the foundation awarded 14 scholarships, supporting students entering careers in fields such as automotive and heavy equipment maintenance, electric power distribution, engineering technology, and marketing.

Since its founding in 1964, the WPS Foundation has donated more than $6 million to help students pursue college degrees or technical diplomas, highlighting decades of commitment to student success.

Scholarships are available to high school seniors living in the WPS service area who plan to attend one of six select technical colleges full-time next fall, including Northeast Wisconsin Technical College in Green Bay and Sturgeon Bay.

Recipients are selected based on academic achievement, leadership in school and community activities, and financial need. Applications are being accepted online through April 30.

Students interested in applying can find full details and submit their materials on the WPS Foundation’s website.

For the next few weeks, we will be experiencing seasonal changes that result in both sporadic and sometimes significant snow and rainfall. Whether it is an unforeseen spring snowfall and the rapid melting of that snow, or the rainfall we will eventually receive, some of that water will end up on our roadways. Just as dangerous as snow-covered roads are pockets of water on paved surfaces.

Such conditions can cause a driving experience known as hydroplaning. Anyone who has experienced this will agree that all steering and most braking cease to exist, and in most cases it is very difficult to regain control until after the affected area is behind you. There are ways to avoid finding yourself in such a situation. As in any other degraded road condition, the best policy is to reduce your speed in both heavy rains and heavy snows.

This is the part where I tell you that there is a law regarding your failure to reduce your speed when road conditions dictate. It’s called “Driving Too Fast for Conditions,” State Statute 346.57(3).

We have all been traveling down a road doing our best to be prudent in what we would consider bad weather when someone passes with what appears to be total disregard for their safety and the safety of others. If you find yourself in this situation, where you feel someone is driving excessively fast, slow down to put more distance between your vehicle, their vehicle, and what could potentially be an accident they cause. If you find yourself passing other vehicles, ask yourself why they are driving so slowly and consider that there may be a reason for their caution. I have said it before, and I will say it again.

Just because a road is posted at a given speed does not mean that you have to match it. Based on conditions, it is understandable and even recommended that you go slower.

The Door County Sheriff’s Department and the Door County Highway Department are offering the same advice if you are thinking about driving during the storm that begins Saturday night and lasts through Monday morning: Don’t.

The National Weather Service issued a Winter Storm Warning early Friday afternoon that will not expire until Monday at 4 p.m. Total snow accumulations could reach between 28 and 35 inches, accompanied by wind gusts up to 45 miles per hour.

Travel could be very difficult to impossible, with areas of blowing snow that could significantly reduce visibility and impact commutes through Monday morning.

As a result, the Door County Sheriff’s Department has issued a tow ban from 9 p.m. Saturday until 8 a.m. Monday. While sheriff’s deputies will be able to help you get out of your vehicle if it ends up in a ditch, it will have to stay there until after the tow ban expires.

During the height of the storm, the Door County Sheriff’s Department may prioritize emergency calls involving blocked roads, fallen trees and downed power lines, which could affect response times.

The Door County Highway Department also echoed its request from Friday morning, asking residents to stay off the road during the storm. Calling Friday’s snowstorm a test run, the department said it will have a crew out in full force Sunday to try to keep state highways and county roads as clear as possible during the storm.

Due to limited staff, only a few workers will stay on overnight to ensure emergency response vehicles have access.

The Door County Emergency Management Department will provide updates throughout the weekend on whether warming shelters will open if additional power outages occur.

With one of the biggest winter storms in recent history bearing down on Wisconsin this weekend, local officials have been making plans this week to ensure residents stay safe.

Snowfall totals as high as 24 inches are being predicted as a weather system begins dumping snow across the region from late Saturday night through Monday morning.

The National Weather Service adds that wind gusts up to 50 mph could create blizzard or near-blizzard conditions, as well as cause power outages and widespread travel disruptions.

The storm could rival an April 2018 system that brought more than 30 inches of snow to the area.

Door County Emergency Management Director Jeb Saelens says they are expecting blocked roads and downed power lines as a result of the snowfall — not just because of the depth, but because of its likely heaviness.

He is urging residents to plan ahead for the possibility of power outages and poor driving conditions that could last multiple days.

Saelens says officials are planning to open multiple warming shelters throughout the county if needed, with assistance from the American Red Cross.

For example, Door County Emergency Management is moving additional cots to Washington Island in preparation for the storm and the likelihood of additional trip cancellations for the Washington Island Ferry Line.

The record temperatures you experienced Monday will be a distant memory this weekend, but road crews have already proven that they are ready for winter's return.

Much of Wisconsin will be in and out of winter storm advisories through Monday afternoon.

While different outlets cannot agree on how much snow could fall on the high end, meteorologists agree that no less than 6-12 inches will accumulate.

Kewaunee County Highway Department Commissioner Marty Treml says they were confident Mother Nature had another storm left before the calendar switched to spring. The blades are still on the trucks, and crews will be ready to clear the snow when the time arrives.

If the area does get the 20-plus inches some outlets are reporting, Treml urges motorists to stay off the roads so everyone can remain safe.

Even after the snow stops, Door County Highway Commissioner Thad Ash asks for patience. He estimates it will not be until Tuesday before the roads are cleared for safe driving.

According to the National Weather Service, several inches of snow fell Thursday night into Friday morning, including 3.5 inches in Sturgeon Bay and nine inches in Egg Harbor. There is still a high probability of 12 to 24 inches of snow Saturday night through Monday morning.

Jacob VandenPlas, founder of DC Farm for Vets, and a 13-year Wisconsin National Guard veteran, formally announced his candidacy for Wisconsin’s 1st State Senate District during an event Thursday evening at the Lodge at Leathem Smith. 

VandenPlas has remained active in regional politics since his 2022 campaign for the U.S. House in Wisconsin’s 8th Congressional District. In that race, he received more than 10 % of the vote in a three-way contest, a notable showing for a Libertarian candidate in the state. 

The 1st Senate District includes all of Door and Kewaunee counties and parts of Brown and Manitowoc counties under Wisconsin’s current legislative maps. The seat is currently held by Republican Sen. André Jacque, who has not publicly confirmed whether he plans to seek reelection. Democrat and local entrepreneur Sean Grorich has already announced his candidacy for the seat. 

During Thursday’s event, VandenPlas spoke about frustration with the state’s two-party political system and outlined priorities that include protecting individual liberties, promoting fiscal responsibility, and advocating for veterans. 

Running as a Republican, VandenPlas says that his campaign could expand voter options in a district that has consistently leaned Republican in recent election cycles. Community members and local party officials attended the gathering, which ran from 5 to 7 p.m. and was open to the public. 

Door and Kewaunee counties are under multiple winter weather alerts as a powerful storm system moves toward northeast Wisconsin.

The National Weather Service in Green Bay has issued a winter weather advisory from 10 p.m. Thursday until 1 p.m. Friday for Door and southern Oconto counties. Forecasters say 2 to 4 inches of snow is expected overnight, with wind gusts up to 45 mph creating blowing and drifting snow and reduced visibility during the Friday morning commute.

A winter storm watch is also in effect from Saturday evening through Monday afternoon for Door and southern Oconto counties. Heavy snowfall is possible, with 12 to 18 inches of accumulation forecast and isolated areas potentially seeing more than 24 inches.

Strong winds could combine with the heavy snow to bring down tree branches and power lines, raising the risk of scattered power outages. Whiteout or near-blizzard conditions could also develop, making travel difficult or potentially dangerous across Door and neighboring Kewaunee counties.

A Wisconsin playwright will be featured next month when Peninsula Players hosts the final presentation of its 2026 The Play’s the Thing series.

The organization announced Thursday that Emily Ann Brooks, Greg Pragel, Connor Nekich and Cassie Slater will participate in the world premiere reading of the play “The After Wife” by Sun Prairie native Sophie McIntosh.

Set in 1963, Nora is the perfect housewife because she was engineered to be one as a humanoid robot. Placed in the home of her inventor, Martin, his daughter Ruth becomes suspicious when she realizes Nora looks like her missing mother.

The play’s director and Peninsula Players Artistic Director Linda Fortunato says its exciting for her to be able to lead the cast through the process.

The reading will be performed April 6 at Björklunden in Baileys Harbor. You can hear our full interview with Fortunato on our podcast page.

The winter storm bearing down on northeast Wisconsin this weekend will not just slow down travel on area roadways. The Washington Island Ferry Line is already warning riders that trips on Friday, Sunday, and Monday could be canceled because of weather conditions.

It follows an earlier announcement that heavy ice presence on the bay would likely force the ferry line to open its spring schedule with a revised slate of five daily trips to ensure riders can travel to and from the island safely.

Ferry President Hoyt Purinton says cold temperatures helped create ice thickness close to two feet in some spots, but the recent warm stretch has allowed some chunks to break off and create ice shoves along the coastline. With poor visibility expected and unfavorable winds anticipated to pick up, Purinton says some people will have to alter their travel plans as a result.

Purinton adds that trip cancellations are extremely rare, but they do occur. Of the more than 6,000 crossings scheduled each year, only about a dozen were canceled in 2025. He advises people to keep tabs on the ferry line’s Facebook page for up-to-date information.

Purinton is also looking at the bright side of the storms and melting ice. The additional precipitation will help water levels rise in Lake Michigan, which is 2 to 12 inches below the March average, according to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.

Three to six inches of snow could fall from Thursday night into Friday. While different outlets cannot agree on the high-end totals, meteorologists agree that at least six inches of snow could fall Sunday into Monday.

Public health officials across the state are encouraging parents to help their kids roll up their sleeves to get vaccinated. According to the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, nearly 7 of every 10 children (66.9%) had the recommended vaccinations at age 24 months, a decline of almost 2% from 2024. Wisconsin is following a nationwide trend of declining vaccination rates, according to Johns Hopkins University.

Vaccine exemptions hit a record high of 3.4% last year, representing more than 138,000 children. During the 2024-25 school year, coverage for measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTaP), polio and varicella vaccines decreased among kindergartners. MMR vaccination coverage was just 92.5%, well below the 95% threshold needed to prevent transmission of the measles virus.

National diphtheria, tetanus and pertussis (DTaP) coverage among kindergartners also declined, falling from 92.3% in 2023-24 to 92.1% in 2024-25.

Door County Public Health Interim Health Officer and Registered Nurse Katie Van Laanen hopes to support parents in making informed medical decisions by sharing clear, research?backed information and answering questions with compassion and transparency.

Earlier this year, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommended changes to the childhood vaccine schedule that would lower the number of routinely recommended vaccines from 18 diseases to 11. According to CBS News, the CDC's revised guidance recommends that only children in high-risk categories receive immunizations for RSV (respiratory syncytial virus), hepatitis A, hepatitis B, dengue, meningococcal ACWY and meningococcal B.

The American Academy of Pediatrics kept those vaccines in the schedule, along with protection against diphtheria, tetanus, acellular pertussis (whooping cough), Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib), pneumococcal conjugate, polio, measles, mumps, rubella, human papillomavirus (HPV) and varicella (chickenpox).

A 78-year-old Egg Harbor man was cited for failing to keep his vehicle under control Tuesday following a two-vehicle crash in the Town of Nasewaupee.

The accident occurred just before 4:40 p.m. on State Highway 42/57 near Stagg Road.

According to the accident report from the Door County Sheriff’s Department, the man was traveling northbound on the highway when he crossed over a concrete median and struck another vehicle traveling southbound. The man blamed strong winds for pushing the vehicle across the median and into oncoming traffic.

He suffered possible injuries but did not require additional treatment at the hospital.

His 78-year-old wife, who was his passenger, and the other driver, a 21-year-old from Luxemburg, were uninjured, though both vehicles had to be towed due to disabling damage.

Green Bay Austin Straubel International Airport (GRB) is calling on local artists, museums, and organizations to showcase patriotic artwork and artifacts in its 3rd annual exhibition celebrating America’s 250th birthday.

Themed “Patriotic | Historic | Americana,” the exhibition will feature pieces highlighting American history, heritage, and culture. Thousands of travelers pass through GRB each week, offering artists a unique platform to share meaningful works with a broad audience.

“We want our terminal spaces to be welcoming and enriching,” said Airport Director Marty Piette. “Through partnerships with local museums and individuals, we can celebrate the nation’s milestone anniversary while highlighting the region’s creative talent.”

All museums, individuals, and membership organizations are encouraged to apply, with special consideration for submissions from Northeast Wisconsin and Upper Michigan. Accepted works include framed photography, artwork, 3-D objects, wall hangings, and clothing. Participants may submit up to four pieces, which will be reviewed by a selection panel.

Displays are forecasted to be installed in May of this year, just in time for the airport’s Honor Flight for Veterans planned for June. The displays will showcase the stories and artifacts that connect us to our shared history.

The deadline for submission is March 31. If interested, email photos and documentation to susan.levitte@flygrb.com with the subject line “250.” Full submission rules or for more information,  please visit the GRB website.

Residents of Door and Kewaunee Counties who cannot vote in person on Election Day have options to cast your ballots absentee for the upcoming spring elections.

Any qualified voter, a U.S. citizen age 18 or older on Election Day who has lived in their municipality for at least 28 consecutive days, may request an absentee ballot. You must also be registered and provide proof of identification.

Requests for absentee ballots can be submitted in writing, by email, by fax, or online at MyVote.wi.gov. Written requests must include your municipal address, the mailing address for the ballot if different, and your signature.

The deadline to request a ballot by mail is 5 p.m. on April 2, five days before the April 7th election. Special provisions apply for voters who are indefinitely confined, hospitalized, in the military, or serving as sequestered jurors; these voters should contact their municipal clerk for specific instructions and deadlines.

You may also request and cast an absentee ballot in person at your municipal clerk’s office.

In-person absentee voting begins Tuesday, March 24, and ends Friday, April 3, at noon. Offices are typically open Monday through Thursday, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Fridays until noon.

All absentee ballots returned on or before Election Day will be delivered to polling places or counting locations for official tallying. Ballots received after polls close on April 7 will not be counted.

Be sure to plan ahead to ensure your ballots are received and counted in time.

A Luxemburg-Casco School District bus slid into a ditch Wednesday morning on Delcore Road, in New Franken. 

Emergency medical services transported several children to a nearby hospital for evaluation. Emergency perssonel reported that the injuries appeared minor. A grandmother of children on the bus said some students suffered small cuts but no serious injuries. 

The crash, which occurred Wednesday morning, was attributed to icy road conditions in the area. Authorities said it is unclear how many children were on the bus at the time.

The bus was removed from the ditch after 8:30 a.m. with the help of a wrecker. Deputies said they are treating the incident as an accident, and no citations have been issued.

Parents and guardians were notified by the school district following the crash.

No other information is being released at this time.

The YMCA’s Peterson Aquatics Center in Sturgeon Bay, hosted a standout performance at the recent “Fast and Furious” swim meet on Saturday, described by competitive swim director Mike McHugh as “the best meet of the season so far.” Across all ages and genders, YMCA swimmers set more than 90 personal best times and produced over 15 new State qualifiers.

“Special recognition goes to the Boys 200 Medley relay team—Xander, Thomas, Jack, and Max—for earning a National cut, along with Daylia and Jack for achieving National cuts in the 200 Breaststroke,” McHugh said. “Even two of our newer dolphin swimmers reached their first-time State cuts. They should be proud and amazed at the level of the program.”

McHugh emphasized the program’s philosophy: “This is why our expectations are high, because with supreme effort and focus, we can achieve them. Every swimmer has the opportunity to reach these ultimate goals. Not everyone will, but setting great goals is essential for personal growth. This is what we teach and coach every day.”

Beyond competitive swimming, the YMCA offers aquatics programs for all ages and skill levels. From beginner lessons for toddlers to lap swimming, water fitness, and advanced competitive training, the Door County YMCA encourages the community to develop confidence, skill, and enjoyment in the water.

More results and program information are available on the Door County YMCA’s website.

Efforts to bring another grocery option to the west side of Sturgeon Bay are gaining momentum as discount grocer ALDI shows increasing interest in the community.

According to Spencer Gustafson, discussions between the company and city officials have been ongoing for years but are now moving into a more serious stage.

“Aldi started looking at Sturgeon Bay ten years ago,” Gustafson said. “They’re making serious decisions now about more land acquisition.”

The proposed store location would be near the intersection of Wisconsin Highway 42/57 and South Ashland Avenue on the city’s West side. While a final site plan has not yet been released, Gustafson said the company has already secured part of the property needed for the project.

“They do already have some land and are waiting on other land parcels,” he said. “They are showing great signs that we will have a new grocery store very soon.”

To help support the development, the city may utilize assistance from a Tax Incremental District to improve infrastructure at the intersection to accommodate future traffic and growth.

Gustafson said nearby developments, including new housing, Starbucks and Kwik Trip, have helped strengthen the tax base and make additional investment possible. If plans move forward, construction could begin as early as later this year.

The old Younkers storefront you may have grown up with could look vastly different under a new design concept. The Door County Highway and Facilities Committee will discuss the vision for the new museum and archives storage building on 4th Avenue in Sturgeon Bay. The county has owned the building since 2019 and initially planned to turn it into an addition to the neighboring history museum. When estimates came back at $8 million, supervisors balked at the price tag and opted to go back to the drawing board. In January, Door County Administrator Ken Pabich said the county was moving forward with a $3 million budget to rehabilitate the structure for county needs while setting up the potential for a public-private partnership to keep the building viable for years to come.

District 10 Supervisor Phillip Rockwell shared his thoughts ahead of the meeting, asking for residents to share their opinions about the project.

The meeting will begin at 9 a.m. Wednesday inside the Door County Government Center. It will also feature a strategic plan presentation for the Door County Trails effort, an update on the County Park and Open Space Plan, and a discussion surrounding the future of the Washington Island Community Center.

New legislation being introduced in Madison aims to help families get the care they need while helping hospitals relieve capacity concerns. Assembly Bill 598, often referred to as “next-of-kin” legislation, would allow family members, including spouses, to have limited authority to make necessary patient care decisions without waiting weeks or months — and spending thousands of dollars — for a court to determine guardianship.

Door County Medical Center Chief Quality Officer Nancy Daoust estimates that only a third of their patients have a pre-established medical power of attorney in place. When the hospital fills up, Daoust says patients may have to be sent to Green Bay or Appleton, and even Milwaukee or Madison, depending on bed availability. She hopes the legislation alleviates the space crunch Door County Medical Center and other hospitals are facing.

Whether the legislation passes or not, Daoust adds that it is important for patients to discuss setting up a medical power of attorney in advance.

The bill passed 77-18 last month in the state Assembly, including a yes vote from State Rep. Joel Kitchens. It now awaits a vote in the state Senate.

After nearly five years on the job, Gibraltar Secondary School Principal Jim DeBroux is moving on. The Ripon Press reported Monday that DeBroux has been recommended for the Ripon High School principal post, paving the way for his likely approval at the Ripon School Board meeting March 16.

DeBroux was one of 18 candidates who applied for the position and one of three finalists for the job.

“I am truly excited for the opportunity to serve as the next principal of Ripon High School,” DeBroux told the Ripon Press. “The time I spent in the district during the interview process only strengthened my hope to become part of this school and community, and I look forward to partnering with students, staff and families to help every student excel.”

DeBroux’s resignation from his job at Gibraltar was unanimously approved by the Gibraltar Area School Board during its meeting last month. DeBroux joined the staff at Gibraltar after more than 20 years at Random Lake High School.

From the Hawaiian Islands to Washington Island, Genevieve Heyward’s American Idol dream is far from over. During the latest episode of “American Idol,” Heyward advanced to the Top 20 as she dedicated her rendition of Elton John’s “Your Song” to her parents.

Her vocal and piano stylings drew high praise from judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan, and Lionel Richie once again, along with a standing ovation.

Heyward took to social media to share that she had gone to her family’s property on Washington Island to decompress following the episode tapings in Hawaii.

 

 

 

 

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The Top 20 round will take place over the next two episodes on March 16 and 23.

The Nashville-based musician and former Door County resident introduced herself to the world when she qualified for “Hollywood Week” with her performance of Heart’s “Magic Man.” She returned weeks later to face the judges with her rendition of Brandi Carlile’s “The Story,” which garnered enthusiastic praise.

“American Idol” airs Mondays at 7 p.m. on ABC.

If being in a room with a bunch of potential employers makes you nervous, you are not alone. Searching for a job causes stress, thanks in part to the fear of rejection and the unknown — something doomscrolling on social media sites can only enhance. In fact, the University of Massachusetts Lowell suggests that Gen Z is experiencing higher levels of workplace anxiety compared to previous generations due to economic uncertainty, student debt and social media pressures.

We Are Hope Inc. Executive Director Kim Carley says being prepared for job fairs and interviews is one way you can battle the anxiety that can come with a job search.

More than a dozen employers will be looking to hire at We Are Hope’s Job and Community Resource Fair on March 10 from 2 to 5:30 p.m. Local school districts through the Northeast Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship (NEWYA) program will also host their own job fairs for students on April 9 at Kewaunee and April 15 at Gibraltar.

Thanks to events that are out of this world, you will find more people looking to the skies these days. Social media feeds have been full of technicolor pictures of the night sky for close to two years thanks to the sun reaching its solar maximum, allowing the Northern Lights to be more visible in more places during its 11-year activity cycle.

Lots of attention has also been placed on Cape Canaveral, where NASA continues to hope for the right time to send the Artemis spacecraft into orbit. It had to scratch its February launch date due to issues with its rocket. March 11 and some dates in April could be used to launch the Artemis program into moon exploration for the first time since the early 1970s.

Closer to home, Coggin Heeringa from Crossroads at Big Creek in Sturgeon Bay says the Door Peninsula Astronomical Society has done a great job engaging with the community, helping showcase the stars that can be seen in their own backyards.

Board member Steve Ransom-Jones will present “Appreciating Astronomic Analysis of the Ancients” on March 10 at 7 p.m. in the Stonecipher Astronomy Center. Due to expected weather conditions, a night sky viewing event has been postponed from March 14 to March 21 at 7 p.m., also at the Stonecipher Astronomy Center.

If you did not use the start of daylight saving time to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, Egg Harbor Fire Chief Justin MacDonald has a good reason why you should do it now.

Firefighters responded to a blaze outside a bedroom window on Alpen Lane in Egg Harbor just after 4 a.m. Monday. A Door County sheriff’s deputy discovered the flames outside the window and knocked down the blaze with a fire extinguisher.

The Egg Harbor Fire Department received assistance from its Northern Door MABAS partners and the Sturgeon Bay Fire Department, though only about 20 gallons of additional water were used to extinguish any hot spots. After removing the bedroom window from the home, firefighters determined the fire did not extend into the home’s walls.

Firefighters wrapped up their duties by 5:40 a.m. MacDonald says the fire caused approximately $20,000 in damage, but adds it could have been a lot worse if the home had not had an operational fire alarm.

After an investigation, MacDonald says improperly disposed smoking materials were to blame for the fire. He adds it is a reminder that as things dry out and winds pick up, the area could become susceptible to grass fires.

Just under a month after a new Wisconsin Supreme Court justice will be elected, another has announced she will end her tenure next year.

Wisconsin Supreme Court Justice Annette Ziegler announced Monday that she will not run for re-election in 2027, calling it the honor of a lifetime to serve as a justice and a judge.

“I will be forever grateful to the voters who elected me twice in Washington County and then twice to serve on our state’s highest court,” Ziegler wrote. “I am incredibly proud that in all my elections I had support from a broad spectrum of legal, civic, law enforcement and political leaders — both Democrats and Republicans — who believed in my commitment to fairness, ethics and the rule of law.”

One of the court’s last remaining conservative justices, Ziegler will step aside to spend more time with her husband, children and grandchildren.

The news comes before Chris Taylor and Maria Lazar go head-to-head in the spring election after Justice Rebecca Bradley announced last year that she would not run for another 10-year term.

A 66-year-old Sister Bay man blames a vehicle that crossed over the centerline for the events that led to him being airlifted following an accident Friday afternoon.

According to the Door County Sheriff’s Office, the crash occurred shortly after 2 p.m. on State Highway 42 near Waters End Road. The man said another driver heading southbound went into the northbound lane, causing him to take evasive action.

That action caused him to lose control of his vehicle on wet pavement as he negotiated a turn. He then entered a ditch and struck a tree.

He was airlifted to Door County Medical Center to be treated for suspected minor injuries. His vehicle was towed due to disabling damage.

The Door County Sheriff’s Office does not have a description of the other driver whose actions led to the crash.

With warmer weather approaching, the Wisconsin Humane Society is reminding Door County pet owners that spring is an ideal time to microchip their animals.

As spring begins to bloom across the peninsula, pets are spending more time outdoors enjoying walks, parks and backyard playtime. That extra activity can also increase the chances of pets wandering off or becoming lost.

“As temperatures rise in the spring and summer months, we see a lot more pet movement,” said Corey Viars, media specialist for the Wisconsin Humane Society’s Green Bay and Door County campuses. “With that increased activity outdoors, there are more opportunities for pets to break free or get loose.”

“Seasonal events such as summer festivals and fireworks can also startle animals, causing them to run away from home.” Said Viars

Microchipping is considered one of the most effective tools for helping lost pets find their way back to their families. About the size of a grain of rice, the small chip is implanted under the animal’s skin and contains a unique identification number linked to the owner’s contact information.

“Microchipping is, by far, the most reliable way to ensure a lost pet is returned home,” Viars said.

“Every stray animal that comes into a WHS facility is scanned for a microchip,” he added. “This technology allows us to quickly reunite hundreds of animals each year with their families.”

All dogs, cats and rabbits adopted through the Wisconsin Humane Society are microchipped before going to their new homes. Microchipping is also available at WHS vaccine clinics, and pet owners are encouraged to keep their microchip registration information updated with current contact details.

This week, Crossroads at Big Creek hosts the final program in the Fish Tales Lecture Series, featuring one of our favorite presenters, Dr. Dan Isermann. His topic — “Movement and Mixing of Smallmouth Bass Spawning Groups in Green Bay” — centers on a fish perfectly designed for our waters.

Smallmouth bass flourish in the rocky habitat that defines much of Green Bay. They prefer reefs and shoals of limestone — technically, dolostone — along with glacial rock piles, deep breaks, and clear water for spawning. The Niagara Escarpment along the western side of the Door Peninsula provides exactly that combination. It’s no wonder Green Bay has become nationally known for its bass fishery.

Many people assume fish simply scatter eggs and swim away — and usually, they are correct. The majority of egg-laying species (an estimated 79%) do not guard their young.

But smallmouth bass tell a different fish tale.

In this species, the male does the heavy lifting. He selects a nest site and fans a shallow depression in gravel or firm sand, typically in a location protected from strong currents and wave action. A female joins him and may lay between 2,000 and 20,000 eggs, depending on her size.

After fertilization, she leaves. He stays.

And that’s when the real work begins.

For days — and sometimes weeks — he eats very little and often loses weight. His immune function can be suppressed, making him more vulnerable to disease. He constantly fans the nest to keep sediment from smothering the eggs and to increase oxygen flow.

Most importantly, he defends the nest from predators that would quickly devour unguarded eggs or fry. But every chase is a risk. If he strays too far, the nest may be raided. If he is too bold, he could become prey himself.

After the eggs hatch, the fry — often described as a wriggling mass of tiny fish — remain near the nest for one to three weeks, depending on water temperature. During that entire time, the male continues guarding them until they disperse.

And this is where science meets real-world questions.

Green Bay is a popular spring destination for anglers, especially during the bass pre-spawn and spawn. Catch-and-release is common and widely practiced.

But what happens if a guarding male is caught while his eggs or fry still depend on him? If he is released some distance away, will he return? How long does it take? And what happens to the nest while he’s gone?

Using acoustic tagging technology, Dr. Isermann and his graduate students have tracked smallmouth bass implanted with tiny transmitters. By following displaced fish released at various sites, their research sheds light on how often males attempt to return, how far they travel, whether spawning groups mix across different parts of the bay, and what temporary nest abandonment might mean for reproductive success.

This work contributes to ongoing discussions about catch-and-release practices and seasonal regulations during the spawning period in one of the Midwest’s premier bass fisheries.

Dr. Isermann is Unit Leader of the U.S. Geological Survey’s Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit, housed at the University of Wisconsin–Stevens Point.

If you care about Green Bay fisheries, about good science, or are simply curious about the remarkable dedication of a two- to four-pound father fish, this is a program you won’t want to miss.

Other programs this week include Monday Movie Matinee, Wandering Wednesday, and Nature Investigators.

The Collins Learning Center is open 9:30 a.m.–3:30 p.m. weekdays and from 9:30 a.m. to noon on Saturday. Trails are open all day, every day, free of charge. Conditions permitting, skiing and snowshoeing may be available. Check our website for open hours and current trail conditions.

Thursday, March 12

3:30–4:30 p.m. Nature Investigators: Wildlife Tracks

Geared for school-age kids, all are invited to dive into weekly, hands-on nature adventures. Each session explores a new environmental mystery — this week, participants will examine the feet of the creatures in our Wildlife Exhibit and determine how these animals move through their habitats. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay.

7:00 p.m. Fish Tales: Movement and Mixing of Smallmouth Bass Spawning Groups in Green Bay

Speaker Dr. Dan Isermann, Unit Leader, U.S. Geological Survey’s Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit, UW–Stevens Point, will discuss the spawning behavior and movement of smallmouth bass. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay.

Monday, March 16

1:30 p.m. Monday Movie Matinee – “An Original DUCKumentary”

Masters of the water and air, ducks have conquered the globe. From deft dabblers to great divers, these are among the animal kingdom’s ultimate athletes. Take a fascinating look at ducks. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay.

Tuesday, March 17

6:30 p.m. Door County Beekeepers Club: Swarms

The Door County Beekeepers Club encourages community members to attend this monthly program to learn more about swarms. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay.

Wednesday, March 18

1:30 p.m. Wandering Wednesday

Join a naturalist on a guided hike through the trails of Crossroads. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay.

Students at Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC) are gaining more than just technical skills, they’re learning how to navigate the job market before graduation.

All students in the College of Business, College of Arts, and College of Information Technology are required to take two career-focused classes as part of their programs.

“Our College of Business, College of Arts, and College of I.T. students, all three of those in that cluster areas are required to take two career classes,” said Pam Cottrell, HR Leadership and Development Instructor at NWTC Green Bay. “In those classes, they get prepared and ready for the job market. I’m very passionate about these courses as I instruct many of them.”

The classes provide students with critical professional skills, including résumé building, interview preparation, and career planning. Students receive hands-on experience through mock interviews and professional feedback designed to help them understand their strengths and areas for improvement.

“[The classes] provide us with the professional feedback we need to know we are on the right track to success,” said Hailey Patton, a student graduating this spring from NWTC Sturgeon Bay. “They prepare us with mock interviews, not only with instructors, but with actual local businesses outside of the campus and in our own community.”

Cottrell emphasized that engaging with real-world employers gives students a head start in understanding workplace expectations. “The mix of classroom and community interaction allows them (students) to leave NWTC not only with a degree but with the confidence and practical skills to become successful in their chosen career” she added.

By integrating career readiness into multiple academic programs, NWTC ensures its graduates are not only technically proficient but also prepared to step into the workforce with confidence. 

Over the past few weeks, I have had some great opportunities to engage with our agriculture industry partners, both locally and statewide. The first opportunity was to be part of a discussion panel at the Wisconsin Custom Operators Conference, where I, along with Adam Massart of Pagel’s Ponderosa, shared the many challenges and successes of our local collaboration. That collaboration started over a decade ago here in Kewaunee County with the creation of the IOH (Implements of Husbandry) Committee, which had representation from the various farms, agricultural haulers, towns and county board officials, along with both law enforcement and highway department leadership.

Too often, we tend to think that other areas of our state excel far beyond us. However, on this specific topic, we realized very quickly that the relationships we have built and the trust we have established here in our community are the exception, not the norm. Let me be clear that this relationship, along with the efforts we have undertaken, are by no means perfect. What we have done, and continue to do, is something simple yet remarkable: communicate.

In addition to communicating early and often, we have improved the level of mutual respect that each stakeholder has for their counterparts. We respect that the towns and county have the responsibility of maintaining the quality of our roads. We respect that law enforcement strives to maintain a safe community for those who travel our roads. We respect the unique work that our agriculture community conducts and the ever-changing conditions in which that work is done. And finally, we respect our community members and their need to freely and safely travel throughout our county. Needless to say, it was a proud Kewaunee County moment.

This event was followed by our annual workshops back here in Kewaunee County. Full credit for these events rests with our partners at the UW Extension offices, who work tirelessly to bring the latest advancements to the agricultural community. Each year, we are able to take some time to discuss the latest trends, along with lessons learned from the previous season, to better improve our processes.

We have a recent addition to these meetings in Kewaunee County Highway Superintendent Marty Treml. While somewhat new to the position, he has added so much to the conversation and is no doubt ushering in a new era of standards as it relates to the permitting process and overall road safety.

One of my messages for this, or any group, is very simple: “If it is predictable, it is preventable.” This is a great reflection for any of us as we plan and carry out our daily activities. Just a short moment of deliberation and consideration of what could go wrong—and then putting preventive measures in place to mitigate those risks.

I am very grateful to be part of these and many other conversations throughout our county as we continue to work together to keep Kewaunee County a great place to live.

Photo courtesy of Kewaunee County

Peninsula cherry growers have an opportunity to shape the future of Wisconsin’s cherry industry as the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) opens nominations for one seat on the Wisconsin Cherry Board.

Eligible cherry producers have until March 27, to submit completed nomination forms, which must include signatures from at least five other qualified growers.

The election will be held May 11 through June 15, with the winning candidate serving a three-year term from July 1, 2026, to June 30, 2029.

The Wisconsin Cherry Board, made up of five at-large members, oversees the state’s Cherry Marketing Order and the use of approximately $55,000 in grower assessment fees. These funds support research, education, and promotion of Wisconsin-grown cherries, benefiting orchards across Door and Kewaunee counties, where cherry production is a key part of our local agricultural economy.

DATCP administers elections for all Wisconsin commodity marketing boards.

For more information on the nomination process or the Cherry Board, visit the DATCP website.

The Door County Community Foundation is strengthening its efforts to support residents facing unexpected hardships through a growing network of relief programs and a new initiative known as the Neighbor Relief Fund.

While the foundation already partners with local organizations to provide assistance through programs such as the Emergency Response Fund, the Door County Food Pantry Coalition and rental assistance efforts, the Neighbor Relief Fund was recently created to fill gaps when traditional resources cannot meet an urgent community need.

Situations occasionally arise where a neighbor faces a crisis requiring quick action, whether due to housing challenges, medical cost setbacks or sudden financial strain. Through trusted partnerships with local nonprofits that work directly with families, needs are carefully vetted and shared with community donors willing to help.

This approach allows generosity to move quickly and directly where it is needed most. In recent months, several urgent requests were met after donors stepped forward to provide timely support.

The advent of the Neighbor Relief Fund reflects Door County’s long-standing tradition of neighbors helping neighbors when it matters most.

A power outage is affecting parts Door and Kewaunee Counties Friday afternoon, leaving approximately 300 customers without electricity as crews investigate the cause.

The outage is impacting both residents and businesses in the area, including local media operations. Some stations in the Door County Media Group family, including 96.7 WBDK, 103.3 The Pirate, U102.1, 104.1 WRLU, and 105.1 The GOAT may experience intermittent service while engineers work to restore power.

Utility crews are currently working to determine the cause of the outage and to restore service as quickly as possible.

Thank you to the patient listeners and residents as restoration efforts continue. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available and power is restored.

**UPDATE**  WPS has restored power as of 5:45 p.m. 03/06/26

As promised earlier this week, you can learn more about the four candidates running for Door County Board seats representing portions of Sturgeon Bay later this month.

The League of Women Voters of Door County finalized plans Thursday for a candidate forum to take place March 23 at Sturgeon Bay High School for the races involving Door County Board Supervisory Districts 9 and 10.

Amy Austad Labott is facing incumbent Ryan Shaw in District 9, while Alexis Heim Peter is challenging Phillip Rockwell in District 10.

LWVDC Candidate Forum Coordinator Dan Powers says the forums allow voters to hear directly from the candidates vying to represent them.

The League of Women Voters of Door County announced earlier this month a candidate forum for Sturgeon Bay Common Council Districts 4 and 6, which will take place at Sturgeon Bay City Hall on March 11. That forum will include District 4 candidates Spencer Gustafson (incumbent) and Joshua Julian and District 6 candidates Seth Wiederanders (incumbent) and Susan Hilsabeck.

Both candidate forums will run approximately 90 minutes beginning at 6:30 p.m.

Residents may submit questions to LWVDC for inclusion in the forum. If you cannot attend, the forum will be recorded and uploaded to the organization’s YouTube channel.

Your next charcuterie board could feature world award-winning cheese made in Kewaunee County.

Agropur Luxemburg cheesemakers Jeremy Robinson and Pat Doell were among the medalists at the World Championship Cheese Contest. Cheesemakers and dairy professionals from around the world descended on Madison for the multi-day competition, with the best of the best decided across dozens of categories.

While Wisconsin was well represented in the top three in several categories, the world champion cheese belongs to the Netherlands’ CONO Kaasmakers, which won with its Beemster Royaal Grand Cru. Two varieties from Switzerland were named first and second runners-up.

Closer to home, Doell won Best of Class for his smoked provolone cheese, to go along with third award honors for his provolone cheese and reduced-sodium provolone cheese. Robinson earned a second award for his low-moisture, whole milk mozzarella cheese.

The World Championship Cheese Contest takes place every other year, alternating with the United States Championship Cheese Contest, which will take place in Green Bay March 9-10, 2027.

A head-on collision in the Town of Sevastopol led to two motorists being transported to the hospital Thursday.

The crash occurred just before 10 a.m. Thursday near the intersection of State Highway 57 and County Highway P.

According to the accident report provided by the Door County Sheriff’s Department, a 68-year-old Muskego woman was driving north on STH 57 when she encountered a southbound driver in her lane. She slowed and attempted to veer right to avoid the oncoming vehicle but was struck head-on by the other vehicle.

The other driver, an 85-year-old Sister Bay woman, was cited for operating left of the centerline.

Both women were taken to Door County Medical Center for treatment. Their vehicles were towed due to disabling damage.

Wisconsin U.S. Sen. Ron Johnson once again addressed national headlines with local residents during his 139th teletown hall earlier this week.

The teletown hall came before he voted against a war powers resolution that would have required the Trump administration to seek congressional approval to continue the war in Iran. According to the Richard Nixon Presidential Library, previous conflicts in Vietnam, Cambodia, Beirut, Lebanon, El Salvador, Kosovo and Libya received similar congressional scrutiny.

Democrats, including Johnson’s in-state colleague Sen. Tammy Baldwin, argued the administration’s actions could draw the country into another yearslong conflict.

“The American people have been clear: they want President Trump focused on lowering their costs, not starting forever wars in the Middle East that will cost Americans their lives and taxpayers billions of dollars,” Baldwin said.

Johnson forecast his “no” vote during the teletown hall, saying it was another example of Democrats opposing something because Trump supports it.

Johnson was also questioned about his vote against the Major Richard Star Act, which would have given thousands of injured combat veterans full disability pay along with their retirement benefits.

He expressed gratitude to veterans who serve in his office and call in during his teletown halls, but said he could not support the measure because its cost had increased, it had not gone through committee and the country is $39 trillion in debt.

The SAVE Act, health insurance concerns and Social Security benefits were among the other topics Johnson covered during the nearly hourlong session. You can watch the full teletown hall below.

As spring approaches, employers across Door County are ramping up hiring in preparation for the peninsula’s busy tourism and business season. Opportunities are opening in healthcare, hospitality, manufacturing, retail, and skilled trades as businesses look to bring in workers who can quickly contribute to their teams.

At Northeast Wisconsin Technical College (NWTC), instructors work closely with local employers to ensure students gain the skills companies actively seek. Programs are designed not only to teach technical knowledge but also to prepare students for today’s workplace expectations. NWTC also offers a Human Resources Compliance Certificate program that helps students and community members better understand hiring practices and workplace policies.

Pam Cottrell, HR Leadership and Development Instructor at NWTC’s Green Bay campus, says preparation is one of the most important steps job seekers can take before an interview. “Do research on the company you are interviewing with,” Cottrell said. “Even research the area and the community surrounding the company.”

Understanding an employer’s mission, values, and role in the community helps candidates tailor their responses and demonstrate genuine interest in the position. Cottrell also encourages candidates to confidently share their achievements. “Don’t be afraid of your accomplishments and pat yourself on the back a bit,” she said.

In addition to showcasing experience, Cottrell says that candidates should come prepared with thoughtful questions. Asking about workplace culture, expectations, and opportunities for growth shows initiative and signals that a candidate is serious about the role. “Prepare thoughtful questions and ask the hard ones,” Cottrell added.

Another factor that can make a strong impression is enthusiasm. According to Cottrell, it’s a detail many job seekers overlook. “A key point that almost every job seeker forgets is to show enthusiasm,” she said. “Show enthusiasm in your cover letter, résumé, and especially in person. Smile as much as possible.”

In a place like Door County, community involvement can help candidates stand out. Many local employers value workers who understand and contribute to the community they serve. “Door County is very community based,” Cottrell explained. “Be sure to discuss your volunteering or community service efforts both on paper and in person. Highlight that, because companies focus on it and want to see how you’ve given back to the community.”

Wisconsin legislators are hopeful their efforts will help your kids keep their hands off their cellphones for a little longer while at school.

According to Wisconsin Public Radio, the state became the 36th in the nation to implement cell phone restrictions when lawmakers passed the Rep. Joel Kitchens-led Wisconsin Act 42 in October. The law was billed as a way to allow schools to enforce bans on student use of cell phones during instructional time.

Under a new proposal introduced this week, students would have to store their devices in a pouch or other storage solution while on school grounds during the day.

The change comes after legislators learned the previous law, which is due to go into effect this summer, did not go far enough to address the mental health issues smartphones may cause for students. Kitchens admitted he had this language in his original bill but pared it back in order to gain support for a measure he believes could have a positive impact for school staff and students alike.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction’s Digital Learning Survey, most school districts in the state — including all in Door and Kewaunee counties — have some sort of cell phone restriction in place, with Washington Island and Sevastopol having full bans.

While many administrators blame cell phone use for classroom distractions, Peshtigo Superintendent Patrick Rau told an Assembly committee during testimony that the bill would remove local flexibility that potentially saved lives during a recent blood drive. In that case, a student reported a suspicious individual who was later found carrying a loaded handgun and a pair of knives.

Even if you don’t know how to run a CNC machine, fix an HVAC unit or build a house, We Are Hope Inc. Executive Director Kim Carley says there are skills you can bring to a business that every employer can use.

According to the Society for Human Resource Management, 46% of new hires fail within the first 18 months. Of those failures, 89% are due to a lack of soft skills such as poor interpersonal skills, lack of dependability and subpar time management.

Carley says good soft skills will travel with you no matter where your career path takes you, at a time when employers are looking for good, hardworking, dependable people to fill their open positions.

More than a dozen employers will be looking for individuals with strong soft skills at We Are Hope’s Job and Community Resource Fair on March 10 from 2 to 5:30 p.m.

You can listen to our full interview with Kim Carley here

A quick look away from the road led to an 86-year-old Baileys Harbor woman being transported to the hospital following a two-vehicle accident Wednesday.

Door County Sheriff’s deputies responded to the crash on County Highway Q near Birch Road in Baileys Harbor shortly after 3 p.m.

According to the incident report, the woman was driving south on the highway when she looked away from the road to adjust her radio. When she looked back up, she struck a legally parked truck on the side of the road before skidding and spinning toward the middle of the highway.

Her car had to be towed due to disabling damage, while she was taken to Door County Medical Center for further treatment. She was cited for inattentive driving as a result of the crash.

Sister Bay is celebrating the national spotlight after being nominated for USA TODAY 10Best’s “Best Small Town in the Midwest.” The nomination recognizes the village’s charm, scenic beauty, and vibrant community that make it a standout destination in the region.

You can cast your ballot daily to help Sister Bay secure a spot in the top 10. Voting is open now through Monday, March 30, with winners announced on Wednesday, April 8, at 11 a.m. local time.

Sister Bay is renowned for its welcoming atmosphere, stunning waterfront sunsets, unique shops, locally owned restaurants, and year-round events. This recognition celebrates the efforts of local businesses, volunteers, and community members who contribute to the village’s charm and vitality.

“We are incredibly honored to be nominated,” said Ellie Soderberg-Guger, Director of the Sister Bay Advancement Association. “This recognition reflects the spirit of our community. We encourage everyone who loves Sister Bay to vote and help us showcase what makes our village so special.”

For more information or to cast your vote, visit the USA Today's 10best website.

With up to 95% of U.S. teens and between 38% and 64% of preteens on social media, Miss Door County Kaylee Griep wants to help them separate the good from the bad.

Nearly six years after capturing the Miss Door County Teen crown, Griep returned to the Southern Door Auditorium stage last month to earn the title of Miss Door County.

A senior at UW-Madison, she is studying journalism, mass communication and criminal justice on a pre-law track. Her community service initiative that she will promote throughout the year is called “Behind the Headlines: Bringing Clarity to Our Communities.”

Griep’s goal is to help young people find news sources they can trust and recognize the trouble that can happen if they follow a story down the wrong path.

Griep will join Miss Cherryland Paige Nikodem, Miss Cherryland Teen Elise Jackson, and Miss Door County Teen Mia Glocke as they travel across the county over the next year promoting their community service initiatives, which will be highlighted individually this week. The quartet also will compete in the Miss Wisconsin and Miss Wisconsin’s Teen competitions, scheduled for June 16-20, 2026, in New Berlin.

Photo courtesy of Fire Flame Creative

Local high school students had the opportunity to explore career paths and employment options during a Job Fair held Wednesday morning at Stone Harbor Resort, aligning with Door County’s busy spring and summer hiring season.

The event brought together 34 businesses representing a wide range of industries from across the peninsula. Employers included Door County Medical Center, Thermatronix, the Door County Sheriff’s Office, NEW Industries, Nicolet Bank, We Are Hope/The Employability Hub, and many others seeking to connect directly with area students.

The hiring event was hosted by the Door County Economic Development Corporation (DCEDC), Northeast Wisconsin Youth Apprenticeship, and CESA 7, all working to strengthen workforce connections between local students and employers.

“We have 34 businesses that are here with us today from all different types of industries, from all over Door County, up and down the peninsula,” said DCEDC Executive Director Michelle Lawrie.

“They are here to engage with the students and tell them about the job opportunities that they have,” Lawrie said, adding that opportunities ranged from summer and part-time positions to full-time employment and youth apprenticeships.

“There are all kinds of opportunities for these students.”

The Door County YMCA is gearing up for summer with registration now open for its 2026 “Best Summer Ever” youth camps at both the Sturgeon Bay Program Center and the Jackie and Steve Kane Center in Fish Creek.

The YMCA offers three primary camp options to serve a wide range of ages, interests, and family schedules throughout the county.

Full Day Camp at the Sturgeon Bay campus is designed for children ages four through entering sixth grade. Campers enjoy a traditional day-camp experience with games, creative activities, educational enrichment, and swim lessons. Camps run weekdays from June 8 through August 21, with free extended care available before and after camp hours.

Camp in the Park, held at Otumba Park in Sturgeon Bay, is a half-day program running from 9 a.m. to noon. Offered in three sessions, the camp features swimming, outdoor games, and field trips to local businesses and downtown. Costs are $65 for members and $85 for community participants.

At the Kane Center in Fish Creek, the Trekkers Day Camp is located across from Peninsula State Park. This full-day camp runs Monday through Friday from June 8 through August 14. Weekly rates are $195 for members and $275 for community participants, with half-day and daily options also available.

“Our summer camps are always in high demand and fill up very quickly,” said Paul Briney, Youth and Sports Program Executive at the Sturgeon Bay YMCA. “Having these different camps, with different hours, provides options for the community depending on the family schedule. There is a little bit of something for everybody.”

Registration is open online through the Door County YMCA website, and families are encouraged to sign up early as space is limited.

As girls grow up, many face increasing social pressures and mental health challenges. By middle school, many girls report feeling discouraged by societal expectations related to appearance, ability and belonging.

Programs supported by the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health (OCMH) aim to counter those trends by building confidence and resilience early. One example is Girls on the Run’s Heart & Sole program, designed for girls in grades 6 through 8, which focuses on developing the whole person, body, brain, heart and spirit, in a supportive, noncompetitive environment.

“The program really has a good formula for matching up middle school girls with supportive adults who help build a community for these girls and are helping them develop as critical thinkers,” said Linda Hall, director of the Wisconsin Office of Children’s Mental Health.

Girls on the Run also serve younger students in grades 3 through 5 across numerous Wisconsin counties, including Door and Kewaunee.

Heart & Sole is a nine-week after-school program offered in the fall and spring. Participants complete 16 lessons covering goal setting, emotional management, empathy, friendships and how to ask for help. Sessions combine discussion, journaling, interactive activities and physical movement, culminating in a celebratory 5K that gives participants a tangible goal and sense of accomplishment.

“What we like about these programs is that they are doing the right thing for young girls and giving them a healthy and mindful pathway to better mental health,” Hall said.

Survey results from Wisconsin participants show measurable impact. Ninety-two percent of girls reported enjoying physical activity after completing the program. Confidence also improved, with 92 percent of participants saying they felt more confident.

Hall says “the inclusive approach provides a good, positive alternative to competitive sports by focusing on socialization, self-care, and personal growth.”

Hall says Heart & Sole equips middle school girls with lifelong skills to manage stress, build healthy relationships and believe in their inner strength.

Before Miss Door County Teen Mia Glocke gained the confidence needed to walk the Southern Door Auditorium stage last month, she had to find it in other facets of her high school life.

Glocke is heavily involved at Gibraltar High School, whether it’s acting in a one-act play, playing the trumpet in the band, or toeing the rubber in the circle for the softball team. Maintaining a healthy, positive mindset has been key to Glocke being successful in those arenas.

Her community service initiative that she will promote throughout the year is called “Mind Over Pressure: Prioritizing Mental Health in Schools – on Any Team, Stage, or Court.” She wants to help young girls know that it is OK to talk about the pressure they feel they are facing.

Glocke will join Miss Door County Kaylee Griep, Miss Cherryland Paige Nikodem, and Miss Cherryland Teen Elise Jackson as they travel across the county over the next year promoting their community service initiatives, which will be highlighted individually this week. The quartet also will compete in the Miss Wisconsin and Miss Wisconsin’s Teen competitions, scheduled for June 16-20, 2026, in New Berlin.

Photo courtesy of Fire Flame Creative

The goat is back on Sister Bay, and this year he’s riding a brand-new boat. Sister Bay’s annual beloved spring tradition invites you to guess the exact date and time the ice will break and the goat finally sets sail.

You can submit your guesses at any participating Sister Bay business and may enter multiple times to increase your chances of winning. When the Goat on a Boat floats, the clock stops, and prizes are awarded to the closest guesses at each business.

Make sure to keep an eye on the bay as temperatures warm this week and get your guesses in before the ice melts. The contest is not only a fun community event but also a way to support local businesses. Winners will be contacted after the official float time is confirmed.

For a list of participating businesses or for more information, please visit the Village of Sister Bay’s website.

For at least one Saturday this month, you and hundreds of other local revelers will be Irish as Destination Sturgeon Bay celebrates St. Patrick’s Day on March 14.

In the middle of activities hosted at Third Avenue PlayWorks and event sponsor Kitty O’Reilly’s, the annual St. Patrick’s Day parade steps off from Sawyer Park at 11 a.m., before taking Oak Street to Madison Avenue, crossing the Michigan Street Bridge to Third Avenue and finishing at Jefferson Street.

Mother Nature provided an assist for Destination Sturgeon Bay to host one of its highest-attended Fire & Ice festivals in recent memory, thanks to unseasonably warm temperatures. Destination Sturgeon Bay’s Alexa Soto hopes the weather cooperates again for the city’s first parade of 2026.

While you have more than a week to plan and build your perfect float for St. Patrick’s Day, you have until Friday to submit your free application to participate in the parade.

You can learn more about this year’s St. Patrick’s Day festivities here.

If you are already thinking about plays and musicals by the water this summer, the team behind Peninsula Players is right there with you. The performing organization opened ticket sales for its 2026 season on Monday, with five shows to enjoy, starting with Sam Bobrick’s “Baggage” on June 16 and ending with Heidi Armbruster’s “Murder Girl” on Oct. 18.

Agatha Christie’s “The Mousetrap,” Richard Maltby Jr.’s tribute to the music of Johnny Cash, “Ring of Fire,” and Ken Ludwig’s “Moon Over Buffalo” fill out the season of theater, challenging attendees with a mix of drama, comedy and music.

Artistic Director Linda Fortunato knows the excitement of a new Peninsula Players season better than most. Before she became artistic director five years ago, Fortunato filled a variety of roles for Peninsula Players, starting as a member of the cast of “Crazy for You” in the 1990s. She says Peninsula Players is like theater summer camp for cast and crew members alike.

If you cannot wait until June for the Peninsula Players season to begin, you are in luck. The organization will host its final play reading April 6, when it performs “The After Wife” by Sophie McIntosh at Bjorklunden.

You can visit the Peninsula Players website to purchase tickets, and you can listen to our preview of the upcoming season by clicking this link.

If you have not already filled your gas tank, it may be time to take a detour before prices rise even more.

According to AAA, the average price for gas in the Green Bay area rose about 2 cents overnight to $2.82 a gallon as of March 1. That is up 25 cents from a week ago. Many gas stations in Door County are even higher, at nearly $3 a gallon.

While the conflict in Iran has pushed prices up further, gas prices were already on the rise. AAA reported last week that refineries are beginning the process of producing summer-blend gasoline, which includes additives that reduce evaporation but increase the price. Nationwide, prices rose 5 cents a gallon when that switch began.

The national average price of gas is $2.98, which is still 12 cents less than at this time last year.

GasBuddy Head of Petroleum Analysis Patrick De Haan told Yahoo Finance on Monday that motorists can expect to see higher gas prices over the next two to three months due to the summer fuel transition and the Iranian conflict. Demand for gas is also expected to increase in the coming weeks as schools across the country take spring break.

While her smiles are bright and wide when she is twirling a baton, they were anything but when Miss Cherryland Paige Nikodem watched a loved one struggle with substance abuse.

A former Miss Oshkosh Teen, Nikodem was recently crowned the second Miss Cherryland, which allows young women from across northeast Wisconsin to compete for scholarships under the Miss Door County Scholarship Organization banner.

Her community service initiative that she will promote throughout the year is called “Stronger than Substance: Engage, Educate, Empower.” Nikodem was inspired by the personal journey her loved one went on as they fought substance issues. When she knew they were going to be OK, Nikodem knew it was a story she wanted to share in the community.

Nikodem will join Miss Door County Kaylee Griep, Miss Door County Teen Mia Glocke, and Miss Cherryland Teen Elise Jackson as they travel across the county over the next year promoting their community service initiatives, which will be highlighted individually this week. The quartet also will compete in the Miss Wisconsin and Miss Wisconsin’s Teen competitions, scheduled for June 16-20, 2026, in New Berlin.

Photo courtesy of Fire Flame Creative

You will hear more from Genevieve Heyward after she advanced to the Top 30 on “American Idol” on Monday.

It has been more than a month since the Nashville-based musician and former Door County resident qualified for “Hollywood Week” with her performance of Heart’s “Magic Man.”

She returned to face the judges with her rendition of Brandi Carlile’s “The Story,” which garnered enthusiastic praise from judges Carrie Underwood, Luke Bryan and Lionel Richie.

Despite admitting her nerves in promos for the episode, Heyward was safely in the Top 30, avoiding a four-person sing-off for the final two spots.

The field will be whittled from 30 contestants to 20 when the show transitions to Hawaii for the competition’s Ohana Round on March 9.

“American Idol” airs Mondays at 7 p.m. on ABC.

Sturgeon Bay residents will have an opportunity to hear directly from the candidates on their ballot when the League of Women Voters of Door County hosts its first candidate forum next week.

The nonpartisan organization will welcome candidates for Sturgeon Bay Common Council Districts 4 and 6 to City Hall on March 11 at 6:30 p.m. for a 90-minute question-and-answer session.

District 4 candidates are Spencer Gustafson, the incumbent, and Joshua Julian. District 6 candidates are Seth Wiederanders, the incumbent, and Susan Hilsabeck.

Each candidate will respond to questions submitted by members of the public and will also make opening and closing statements.

LWVDC Candidate Forum Coordinator Dan Powers says the forums allow voters to hear directly from the candidates vying to represent them.

Powers says the LWVDC is also finalizing details for a candidate forum for Door County Board Supervisory Districts 9 and 10, which are also based in Sturgeon Bay. He says it will likely take place at Sturgeon Bay High School from 6:30 to 8 p.m.

Residents may submit questions to the LWVDC for inclusion in the forum. If you cannot attend, the forum will be recorded and uploaded to the organization’s YouTube channel.

Changing wind patterns and shifting ice conditions across northern Door County could affect upcoming ferry operations as the Washington Island Ferry Line prepares to transition into its spring sailing schedule.

South gales earlier this week followed by strong northwest winds have broken loose large sections of previously stable bay ice that had remained locked in place for more than a month. The movement has created dynamic and challenging navigation conditions along the route between Washington Island and the mainland.

The Ferry Line will maintain its current winter sailing schedule through March 12, with a new spring schedule set to take effect March 13 as seasonal conditions begin to shift across northern Door County. Vehicle reservations remain required for all ferry trips through March 12.

 “We’re now seeing ice that was stable for weeks suddenly on the move,” The Ferry Line stated through its social media. “These are large, rugged pieces, and safety remains our top priority as conditions continue to change.”

Crews are closely monitoring the situation and may reduce the planned upcoming spring schedule to allow for longer crossing times. “It’s likely we’ll be dealing with this heavy ice for the next month or so,” the ferry line noted. 

Schedules are updated and posted regularly on the line's social media pages. Until then, the ferry line encourages future ferry-goers to “think spring” while hoping for favorable winds and warmer weather in the weeks ahead.

With less than two months to go before taxes are due to the IRS, two organizations are hoping to make the process easier and less expensive.

United Way of Door County and the AARP Foundation are teaming up again to offer free tax preparation assistance. Volunteers help taxpayers organize their returns so they can claim as many eligible credits and deductions as possible.

United Way of Door County Executive Director Amy Kohnle says that for the area’s ALICE population — Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — every dollar matters, especially when professional tax preparation can cost hundreds of dollars.

Appointments are required at the tax-aide sites in Egg Harbor, Sister Bay and Sturgeon Bay. An AARP membership is not required to use the service.

More information is available below.

Miss Cherryland Teen Elise Jackson has a rare opportunity to continue the work she started a year ago when she was selected as Miss Door County Teen. Jackson was recently added back to the Miss Door County Scholarship Organization roster after relinquishing her crown to Mia Glocke at the Miss Door County Pageant last 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.

Last year, Jackson’s community service initiative, “Next Gen Civics: Igniting Youth Engagement in Civics,” led to her creating a new badge for Girl Scouts to earn while they learn about getting involved in government. Jackson took great pride in first introducing the award to her own Girl Scout unit.

Last summer, Jackson was named third runner-up in the Miss Wisconsin’s Teen competition, which was the second year in a row a Miss Door County pageant contestant finished in the top five at the Miss Wisconsin competition.

Jackson will join Miss Door County Kaylee Griep, Miss Door County Teen Mia Glocke, and Miss Cherryland Paige Nikodem as they travel across the county over the next year promoting their community service initiatives, which will be highlighted individually this week. The quartet also will compete in the Miss Wisconsin and Miss Wisconsin’s Teen competitions, scheduled for June 16-20, 2026, in New Berlin.

Picture courtesy of Fire Flame Creative

You will have to remember to set your clocks forward one hour on Sunday — but will it be for the final time?

According to USA Today, Florida Republican Rep. Greg Steube is the latest member of Congress to introduce a bill that would do away with the biannual ritual of changing the clocks. The proposal would shift U.S. time zones forward 30 minutes from current standard time and leave them there permanently.

Under the plan, Central Time would be 5.5 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time, or UTC, which is based on the Prime Meridian in Greenwich, England.

Proponents of the change argue it would improve public safety, reduce crime and boost the economy, in addition to saving people the hassle of changing their clocks twice a year. They also point to public opinion polls showing most Americans want to end the time changes.

A 2025 Gallup poll found Americans prefer permanent standard time (48%) over permanent daylight saving time (24%).

The Daylight Act of 2026 is the latest example of Congress attempting to end daylight saving time, which dates to 1918, when lawmakers passed the Standard Time Act before repealing it a year later.

Even if the bill were to pass this week, it would not take effect until 90 days after being signed into law — meaning you would still need to move your clocks forward this weekend.

Several states have passed legislation expressing a preference for either permanent standard time or permanent daylight saving time, according to The Hill, though Wisconsin is not among them.

Daylight saving time begins Sunday and runs through Nov. 1.

Motorists can expect short delays traveling on Door County’s major thoroughfares beginning Monday.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation announced Friday that maintenance work will impact state highways 42 and 57 as crews repair pavement.

The work will affect northbound and southbound Highway 57 between Loritz Road and Orchard Drive, and northbound and southbound Highway 42 between Gibraltar Road and Fieldcrest Road.

Work on both highways is scheduled from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m. Monday through Friday, weather permitting.

No closures are planned, but traffic will be controlled by flagging operations.

The Wisconsin Department of Transportation also announced maintenance work in Marinette, Manitowoc, Calumet and Outagamie counties as part of its broader northeast region update.

Despite being likely weeks away from planting crops, there is still plenty to do for Jacob VandenPlas and other veterans who fulfill a wide variety of tasks at DC Farm for Vets.

The “false spring” inspired some activities, such as shearing sheep and setting up equipment for the upcoming maple sap harvest so syrup can be made. Otherwise, cold temperatures have forced more indoor work, including fixing tractors and crop planning.

VandenPlas says he tries to keep up with the more than a dozen veterans his operation has served to keep them involved and give them skills and purpose.

DC Farm for Vets is also planning its workshop and training schedule for the upcoming season, opening the door for veterans and first responders to gain the skills they want and need for their own agricultural pursuits.

Although Aldo Leopold Day is a state observance in Wisconsin, it’s not the kind of holiday when schools and businesses close and staff receive holiday pay. Here at Crossroads, however, Aldo Leopold Day feels far more meaningful than a day off. Our mission has always been grounded in the land ethic of Aldo Leopold — the idea that humans are part of a larger ecological community and have a responsibility to care for all its members.

Beginning on Leopold Day, March 7, our Science Saturday program will move to Saturday mornings at 10 a.m. The family-focused program will be aptly titled “Learning from Aldo” and will conclude with an optional self-guided hike.

It is fitting that during this week Leopold is remembered not only for his near-poetic — and, in my case, life-changing — essays, but also as a founder of modern wildlife management. In 1933, he published Game Management, a foundational text that helped establish wildlife management as a science-based profession. In it, Leopold argued that regulations and management plans should be guided by careful research and stewardship of the entire biotic community, not short-term interests or single-species management.

That legacy inspired the creation of the Fish Tales Lecture Series: Presenting the Science of Great Lakes Fisheries. The series highlights how rigorous research and thoughtful management reflect the ethical framework Leopold championed nearly a century ago: Understanding populations, habitats and ecological relationships leads to better stewardship.

On Thursday, March 12, at 7 p.m., Dr. Dan Isermann, unit leader of the U.S. Geological Survey–Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit, will present “Movements and Mixing of Smallmouth Bass Spawning Groups in Green Bay.” His work exemplifies the kind of long-term research Leopold envisioned — science in service to the health of the whole community. Understanding smallmouth bass behavior during spawning is critical to achieving appropriate stewardship of the fishery in Green Bay.

Using acoustic tagging technology, Dr. Isermann and his graduate students have studied smallmouth bass implanted with transmitters while actively spawning at one location. Their research reveals how these fish behave after relocation to distant release sites in Green Bay, offering valuable insight into movement patterns, spawning-site fidelity and the mixing of spawning groups.

We invite the community to spend time hiking or simply pondering the words of Aldo Leopold. Our trails are open all day, every day, free of charge. We welcome you to visit Crossroads now and throughout the year to reflect on Leopold’s enduring words: “A thing is right when it tends to preserve the integrity, stability, and beauty of the biotic community. It is wrong when it tends otherwise.”

Thursday, March 5
3:30 p.m. Nature Investigators

Geared for school-age kids, all are invited to dive into weekly, hands-on nature adventures. Each session explores a new environmental mystery — this week, predator–prey relationships. Guided by curiosity and grounded in real science, Nature Investigators encourages kids of all ages to observe, ask questions and connect with the natural world in meaningful ways. Free and open to all ages. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Saturday, March 7
10 a.m. Science Saturdays – Learning from Aldo

Learn about Aldo Leopold through engaging activities. This weekly family program is intended for elementary students, but learners of all ages are welcome. Optional self-guided hike. Free and open to all ages. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Monday, March 9
1:30 p.m. DCMGA: Growing Together Education Series – Winter Interest in the Garden

When selecting flowers and shrubs this spring, gardeners should consider plants that add beauty not only during the growing season, but throughout the year. Master Gardener Sue Kutz will offer a video presentation followed by a Q&A session. This Master Gardener program is free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Wednesday, March 11
1:30 p.m. Wandering Wednesday – Naturalist-Led Hike

Join a naturalist-led hike. Easy walking, approximately one hour. Well-behaved dogs are allowed. Free and open to all ages. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

Thursday, March 12
3:30 p.m. Nature Investigators – Wildlife Tracks

Featured March 12 from 3:30–4:30 p.m. Geared for school-age kids, all are invited to dive into weekly, hands-on nature adventures. This week, we will examine the feet of animals in the Wildlife Exhibit — plus create a craft. Free and open to all ages. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

7 p.m. Fish Tales: Movements and Mixing of Smallmouth Bass Spawning Groups in Green Bay

Dr. Dan Isermann, unit leader of the U.S. Geological Survey–Wisconsin Cooperative Fishery Research Unit, will describe how acoustic tagging technology is used to study smallmouth bass caught actively spawning and relocated to distant release sites in Green Bay. Learn how this research reveals movement patterns and mixing among spawning groups — information essential for sound fisheries management. Free and open to all ages. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan St., Sturgeon Bay.

The Ridges Sanctuary invites the public to its annual Owl-O-Rama on Friday, March 6, featuring a special indoor program and an outdoor owl listening experience.

The evening begins at the Cook-Albert Fuller Nature Center, where a Ridges naturalist will introduce participants to the owls that call Door County home. Guests will then travel to a nearby trail to hear owls calling in their natural habitat. The guided nighttime hike covers less than half a mile. The program costs $15, with a 20% discount for members, and pre-registration is required.

Adding a visual highlight, bird photographer Tony Chapa will showcase his premier collection of owl photography, featuring nine of the eleven species found in Wisconsin and Minnesota, a culmination of five years of dedicated post-retirement work. His indoor exhibit is free to view, with donations appreciated.

The indoor program is fully accessible, while the hike requires winter-appropriate gear and carpooling. For registration or more information, visit The Ridges Sanctuary website.