The White Lilac, a beloved music venue in downtown Kenosha, has joyfully reopened after an eight-month closure that followed a dramatic exterior wall collapse in June 2025.

When repairs stalled due to failed insurance claims, co-owner Kelly Mackay stayed determined to bring the venue back to life.

The Kenosha community rose to the challenge, donating over $26,000, making the restoration possible and highlighting a profound spirit of local support.

The White Lilac now reclaims its place as a cherished listening room, celebrated for its close-knit atmosphere where both artists and audiences connect in an almost conversational exchange.

To mark its return, the venue hosts a slate of live performances—including a standout Valentine’s show, “Unlucky In Love,” on February 13, 2026.

Music lovers can once again enjoy intimate, heartfelt concerts at this treasured local gathering place.

A fatal three-vehicle collision unfolded Thursday afternoon in Brighton, Wisconsin, claiming the life of a 75-year-old Kenosha man and injuring two others.

The crash happened around 4:11 p.m. on County Highway BD, when a Honda CR-V unexpectedly crossed the centerline, striking a northbound Ford Escape head-on.

A Porsche Cayenne, also heading south, was unable to avoid the accident and hit the Honda before ending up in a ditch.

The Honda’s driver was trapped and sustained critical injuries; despite first responders’ swift efforts, he was pronounced dead at the scene.

The Ford’s driver, also trapped, suffered non-life-threatening injuries and was airlifted to a Milwaukee hospital.

The Porsche driver had minor injuries and received local medical care.

Investigators suspect a possible medical emergency caused the initial crash, while road and speed conditions were not contributing factors.

The road remained closed for hours as authorities gathered evidence in this tragic event.

Kenosha County Sheriff David Zoerner has signed a 287(g) agreement with U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), allowing county jail officers to carry out select immigration enforcement duties.

This move represents a reversal from Sheriff Zoerner’s earlier position against such collaboration.

The agreement, finalized in January 2026, enables specially trained jail staff to work alongside ICE in identifying individuals for immigration violations while in custody for serious or violent crimes.

Zoerner insists the focus is on preventing the release of individuals facing severe criminal charges.

However, the decision has drawn swift criticism.

The ACLU of Wisconsin and CUSH warn the policy could erode trust within immigrant communities, making residents less likely to report crimes or seek help.

Maintaining open, transparent dialogue will be vital as Kenosha County weighs enforcement with community trust and safety.

A pedestrian sustained critical injuries after being struck by an SUV around 6:30 p.m. on January 2 in the Town of Randall, near 316th Avenue and County Highway W.

Reports from Twin Lakes Fire and Rescue indicate the individual was crossing the roadway when the collision occurred.

Emergency responders discovered the victim with life-threatening injuries and arranged for a LifeNet helicopter to airlift them to Froedtert Memorial Lutheran Hospital.

The Kenosha County Sheriff's Office is actively investigating the incident, but no names or updated conditions have been shared so far.

Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to step forward and assist.

This accident highlights the urgent need for caution among both drivers and pedestrians, especially during winter, as hazardous road conditions can increase risk.

Community members are reminded to prioritize safety and follow all traffic laws.

RUSK COUNTY, Wis. — Relief swept through the community after the Rusk County Sheriff’s Office confirmed 14-year-old Alexandria Kuntz was found safe early Friday morning.

Alexandria had vanished from her Glen Flora home on December 27, last seen by family late that evening.

Her absence triggered concern when she left behind her phone and laptop, suggesting she left on foot.

Authorities expanded their search, focusing on possible connections in the Racine and Kenosha areas.

She is described as 5'3" tall, about 170 lbs., with hazel eyes and brown hair.

She was last known to be wearing grey clothing, a black coat, Converse shoes, and carrying a distinctive reddish Coach purse.

Multiple agencies and dedicated volunteers joined forces in the search.

Officials have not shared specifics about how Alexandria was found.

Authorities thanked everyone involved for their vital support.

Authorities in Kenosha County have issued a wanted alert following a violent assault and carjacking that took place overnight between December 6 and 7.

The suspect attacked the victim and forcibly took their vehicle, leaving local residents on edge.

Investigators say more charges may be filed as new evidence emerges.

The individual is considered dangerous, and law enforcement is urging the public to assist with any information that could help locate the suspect.

If you recognize the person or have relevant details, contact the Kenosha County Sheriff's Office or call 911 immediately.

Community members are encouraged to stay alert and share this warning, as public vigilance can play a crucial role in keeping Kenosha County safe.

Fresh snowfall in Southeast Wisconsin has excited many, but Kenosha County snowmobile fans are urged not to ride yet.

The Kenosha County Snowmobile Alliance announced that all local trails remain officially closed.

Riding early can damage trail surfaces, uproot farmland, and put property agreements with local landowners at risk.

Officials emphasize that premature use is a major reason landowners revoke trail access, potentially leading to permanent trail closures.

Despite a recent snowstorm, there isn't enough snow for safe grooming and the ground underneath is still too soft.

Riders are asked to watch for official county updates before heading out.

Staying off the trails now not only protects the land, but helps guarantee a better snowmobiling season for everyone when conditions improve.

In the wake of a devastating Kenosha apartment fire that claimed the lives of three children, local fire officials are issuing an urgent public safety plea.

As our community grieves this profound loss, the Kenosha Fire Department is reminding everyone to take immediate fire prevention measures at home, especially as cold weather increases risks.

Residents are advised to use space heaters with caution and ensure working smoke detectors are installed on every floor.

An alarm provides a crucial early warning.

Beyond alarms, officials are stressing the importance of creating and practicing a family escape plan.

It is not enough to just talk about it.

Physically walking through exit routes and establishing a safe outdoor meeting place ensures everyone knows exactly what to do in an emergency.

These simple preparations can prevent another tragedy.

A 40-year-old woman is fighting for her life after a devastating head-on crash in Kenosha County late Friday night.

The collision occurred on Basset Road near Twin Lakes when her Nissan Rogue struck a large grain drill being towed by a Ford F-350 pickup.

The impact was so severe that the woman was ejected from her vehicle.

She was immediately airlifted to a Milwaukee hospital, where she remains in critical condition.

The situation became more complex when a 39-year-old resident allegedly interfered with the crash investigation.

Authorities say the man shined a flashlight at a police drone and at deputies, causing the drone to crash into nearby trees.

He was arrested and now faces several charges, including resisting an officer and criminal damage to property.

The truck driver is cooperating with investigators.

Kenosha County Treasurer Teri Jacobson has issued a critical warning for property owners ahead of tax season.

A recent nationwide USPS policy change could cause your mailed tax payment to be considered late, even if you send it on the deadline.

Mail is now sent to regional centers for postmarking, which can delay the official postmark date by several days.

Under Wisconsin state law, a late postmark means a delinquent payment.

This results in a significant penalty of 1.5% interest per month, retroactive to February 1.

To avoid fees, residents are strongly encouraged to mail their payments several days earlier than usual.

For guaranteed on-time payment, consider using the E-check option online for a $1.50 fee or taking your payment to a post office counter and asking for it to be hand-stamped.

A Winter Storm Warning is now in effect for all of Southeast Wisconsin.

Forecasters are calling for a significant, all-day snow event this Saturday, with widespread accumulation of 6 to 10 inches expected for the entire region.

Travel conditions are predicted to become extremely dangerous as the storm reaches its peak intensity during Saturday afternoon.

Communities along Lake Michigan, including Milwaukee, could see a heavier, wetter snow due to the warmer lake water.

There is also potential for powerful lake effect snow bands, which may lead to locally higher totals right along the shoreline.

Officials are strongly advising residents to avoid all non-essential travel on Saturday due to poor visibility and slick roads.

The snow is expected to taper off early Sunday morning, but hazardous conditions will likely persist.

A sweeping federal human trafficking operation resulted in twenty arrests across Kenosha and Illinois on November 19th.

The mission was led by the Department of Homeland Security and the FBI, with teams staging from the Kenosha Public Safety Building.

In a move described as standard protocol for high-stakes federal investigations, neither the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office nor the Kenosha Police Department participated in the enforcement phase to protect operational integrity.

Sheriff David Zoerner affirmed his strong relationship with federal partners but noted he always appreciates a heads-up when major activity occurs in the community.

His office also cautioned residents against spreading "reckless and inaccurate claims" on social media that could jeopardize ongoing work.

Officials later confirmed that any undocumented individuals arrested in connection with the bust were deported by ICE.

A fresh and healthy dining option has arrived in Kenosha with the opening of the new Tropical Smoothie Cafe.

Located at 3199 Market Lane, the cafe officially opened its doors on November 8th, tapping into a growing local demand for nutritious and convenient meals.

While famous for its smoothies, the menu offers much more.

Residents can enjoy a full lineup of food, including wraps, flatbreads, salads, and even breakfast options.

This addition reflects Kenosha's broader economic growth and expanding dining scene.

Supported by the Kenosha Area Chamber of Commerce, the new location also provides modern conveniences like online ordering, curbside pickup, and delivery.

It is poised to become a go-to spot for locals seeking a flavorful and better-for-you meal on the go.

A Kenosha woman has tragically lost her home and entire life savings, totaling over $650,000, in a devastating gold bar scam.

Criminals posing as federal agents convinced her that her bank accounts were compromised, manipulating her into liquidating all her assets—including her 401(k)—to buy gold bars for so-called “safekeeping.”

This heartbreaking incident of senior exploitation is part of a much larger scheme affecting our community.

However, a breakthrough has been made.

The Kenosha Police Department announced that charges have been filed against two men.

One suspect, Jagdishkumar Nandani of Illinois, allegedly acted as the courier who collected the gold.

He was linked to the case after being arrested in a similar scheme in Addison, Illinois.

Authorities are now issuing an urgent warning to all residents: no government agency will ever demand payment in gold or cash.

History was made in Madison as the Kenosha St. Joseph Catholic Lancers captured their first-ever state football championship.

The Lancers completed a perfect 14-0 season by defeating the previously unbeaten Cochrane-Fountain City with a dominant 35-19 victory in the WIAA Division 7 final.

Kenosha St. Joseph seized control early, building a commanding 28-7 lead by halftime that proved insurmountable.

Receiver Dominic Rinaldi was a standout performer, reeling in 10 catches for 177 yards and two crucial touchdowns.

This historic win marks a moment of redemption for the program, whose only other finals appearance was a runner-up finish back in 2001.

Their path to the title was powered by a lockdown defense that allowed just 34 points throughout the entire postseason, cementing the 2025 team's legacy in Kenosha sports history.

Downtown Kenosha comes alive once a month for its celebrated Third Thursdays event, a vibrant celebration of local commerce and community.

This recurring gathering sees local shops, restaurants, and galleries roll out the red carpet with extended hours, exclusive deals, and special events.

From shopping discounts at boutiques like LuLu Birds to unique menus at eateries such as The Apis Hotel and Rustic Road Brewing Co., there’s a diverse range of offerings.

The evening isn't just about food and retail; it’s about connection.

Venues like the Kenosha Creative Space host open stages, while places such as Captain Mike's often feature live music, creating a lively atmosphere throughout the city center.

Third Thursdays represents a powerful commitment to supporting Kenosha's local economy and provides a perfect opportunity for residents to engage with their community.

A painful chapter has closed for the Elkhorn community.

On Friday, Thomas Routt was sentenced in a Walworth County courtroom to life in prison without the possibility of parole for the murders of newlyweds Gina and Emerson Weingart.

The sentence brings a final, somber end to the case that began with a shocking act of violence at the Sports Page Bar on February 1 of last year.

Routt was convicted of killing the couple during a robbery that netted just $140.

The courtroom was filled with grief as family members shared heartbreaking victim impact statements detailing their profound loss.

Judge Kristine E. Drettwan offered a stark assessment, telling Routt he had slaughtered the couple for nothing.

The verdict provides legal closure for a tragedy that has deeply shaken local residents.

The 2025 outdoor golf season has officially concluded across Kenosha County.

Both Brighton Dale Links and Petrifying Springs Golf Course wrapped up play for the year on November 15.

It was another banner year for local golf, with the number of rounds played coming just 500 short of breaking the all-time record set in 2024.

Golf Director Jim Wallace expressed his gratitude to the community for another successful season.

While the greens are now closed, dedicated golfers can keep their skills sharp this winter.

The advanced indoor golf simulators at Brighton Dale are now fully operational and available for booking through the pro shop.

This transition marks the official shift from outdoor fairways to indoor practice for the local golf community until spring returns.

A Salem Lakes man is in custody facing ten felony counts of possession of child pornography after a complex, year-long investigation.

Julio Nieto-Gutierrez, 45, was arrested by the Kenosha County Sheriff’s Office on November 12th.

The investigation began in October 2024 when the Kenosha Police Department received cyber tips about illicit materials being distributed on platforms like WhatsApp and Snapchat.

The case was later transferred to the Sheriff’s Office when it was discovered Nieto-Gutierrez had moved.

During the probe, detectives found he also had an active felony warrant from Arizona and was in the country illegally.

U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has since placed a detainer on him.

Sheriff David Zoerner highlighted his office's commitment to protecting children and working with federal partners.

Nieto-Gutierrez is currently being held at the Kenosha County Jail.

Kenosha County residents experienced a stunning week of weather whiplash, cycling through all four seasons in just five days.

The week kicked off with a major lake-effect snowstorm that buried communities like Pleasant Prairie under as much as 13 inches of heavy snow.

The intense snowfall forced the Kenosha Unified School District to cancel classes, catching many by surprise with its sudden wintery blast.

But the winter landscape didn't last long.

An incredible atmospheric shift brought a surge of warm southern air, sending temperatures soaring to an unbelievable 71 degrees by Friday.

The rapid change from snow shovels to t-shirts was the talk of the county.

It served as a classic reminder that living in Southeastern Wisconsin means always being ready for the unexpected.

All Kenosha Unified School District schools are closed today, Monday, November 10, due to a severe Lake Effect snow band creating hazardous conditions across the area.

District officials cited dangerous travel as the primary reason for the closure.

Heavy, blowing snow has made it nearly impossible to safely clear school parking lots and sidewalks for students and staff.

Roads throughout Kenosha County are in poor shape, with local authorities reporting slick spots and significantly reduced visibility.

A Winter Weather Advisory remains in effect for the region, and residents are urged to avoid travel unless absolutely necessary.

The closure also means all after-school activities, including sporting events, have been cancelled for the day.

Families are encouraged to monitor local weather updates as the storm continues to impact southeastern Wisconsin.

Kenosha’s dining scene has a vibrant new addition with the opening of Akame Sushi on Green Bay Road.

The restaurant brings a long-awaited all-you-can-eat sushi concept to the city, offering an endless menu for one set price.

Diners can enjoy a huge variety of made-to-order items, including specialty rolls, fresh sashimi, and even hot hibachi entrees.

This modern spot is already earning praise for its fresh ingredients and fast service, which are crucial for the AYCE model.

While the value is undeniable for those with a serious appetite, it also caters to groups by offering plenty of non-sushi options like teriyaki and gyoza.

Akame Sushi is quickly carving out its niche as the perfect local destination for group celebrations and anyone looking to explore Japanese cuisine without limits.

A new vision for patient care has arrived in Downtown Kenosha.

Enlightened Eye Care, a new clinic led by Dr. Graham Keith, officially opened its doors this week with a ribbon-cutting ceremony hosted by the Kenosha Area Chamber of Commerce.

The practice aims to challenge the conventional, high-volume model of eye care.

Dr. Keith emphasized a commitment to a more personal and thorough patient experience, where appointments are unhurried and meticulously tailored to individual needs.

The clinic’s core philosophy is that patients shouldn't feel rushed or unheard.

This new local business adds a specialized medical service to the heart of the community, offering residents a healthcare choice that prioritizes quality and satisfaction in our growing downtown area.

The Kenosha County Board has officially adopted its 2026 budget, a plan hailed by local leaders as a victory for collaborative and responsible governance.

County Executive Samantha Kerkman praised the plan’s dual focus on essential services and fiscal health.

A key highlight for residents is a 4.1 percent decrease in the property tax mill rate, a strategic move aimed at maintaining the county's top-tier AAA bond rating.

Public safety is a major priority, with funds allocated for a comprehensive study of the Sheriff’s Office and new video software for the District Attorney's office.

Major infrastructure projects also received the green light.

The budget funds engineering for the Kemper Center shoreline restoration and the full reconstruction of Highway W from the village of Wilmot to the Illinois state line.

In the heart of Kenosha, two local entrepreneurs are tackling food insecurity with a powerful grassroots effort.

Emily Jacobsen of Fancy Snacks and Leah Livingston of Yaya’s Sweets have joined forces to create and distribute free meal kits for families in need.

Motivated by posts they saw in local moms' groups, they transformed their shared commercial kitchen on 18th Street into a hub for compassion.

They have already assembled over 400 kits, each containing non-perishable ingredients for a simple dinner for a family of four.

To ensure dignified and easy access, the duo partnered with local businesses like Lois Family Piggly Wiggly for no-questions-asked distribution events.

Now, they are calling on the community for donations to purchase more supplies and continue their vital work, showing how neighbors helping neighbors strengthens the entire city.

Another crash on a notorious stretch of Fox River Road in Randall has renewed calls for immediate safety improvements.

A recent rollover involving a commercial truck on County Highway W marks the fifth reported accident along this same road in just the past year.

Residents describe the section as a known hazard, citing a treacherous combination of a steep hill and a blind curve.

In response, Kenosha County and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation have confirmed the road is slated for a major overhaul.

The project will lower the hill by roughly 12 feet and realign the dangerous curve to improve driver visibility.

However, the fix is not immediate.

Construction is not scheduled to begin until spring 2026, a timeline that feels frustratingly distant for concerned neighbors who travel the road daily and fear more serious accidents could occur.

Two Kenosha teenagers are once again proving the spirit of giving has no age limit.

Thirteen-year-old Jaxson Thomas, alongside his friend Jayden Eisenbraun, has launched a community-wide toy drive to ensure local children have gifts for the holidays.

This isn't the first major community effort for Thomas, who was named last year's Volunteer of the Year in the prestigious 2025 Governor’s Service Award.

He earned that title after donating over 1,000 toys and books to more than 100 area families.

Now, the pair is asking for donations of new, unwrapped toys, cash, or gift cards to be dropped off by December 5.

Several businesses are serving as collection sites, including Cut Stone Pizza in Kenosha, Nothing Bundt Cakes in Pleasant Prairie, and Drifters Bar & Grill in Paddock Lake.

Carthage College will host a crucial panel discussion, “What Healthcare Needs from Higher Education,” on November 13, 2025, focusing on the intersection of academic preparation and healthcare workforce challenges.

The event runs from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Todd Wehr Center in Kenosha and is organized by the Carthage Business and Professional Coalition, now led by Nicole Ryf of the Kenosha Area Business Alliance.

Panelists include Lynda Bogdala (Brookside Care Center), Kristin McManmon (Ascension All Saints Hospital), and David Reitzel (Premier Inc.).

President John Swallow will share recent alumni and employer survey data on workforce needs, while Paul Martino, Dean of Carthage’s new School of Health, moderates.

Recent milestones such as the Kenosha Innovation Center’s opening and a major grant for the Kenosha Community Health Center highlight why local healthcare advancements make this gathering especially timely.

Admission is free with registration due by November 8.

The highly anticipated 2025 Brooks XC Midwest Region Rankings have arrived, spotlighting the top 1,000 boys cross country athletes.

Colorado runners are turning heads with five athletes breaking into the top ten.

Summit High School’s Jay McDonald leads after a stunning 14:18.79 performance at the Mountain States Challenge.

Coronado’s Oliver Horton isn’t far behind, clocking a personal best of 14:23.90 at the Desert Twilight, while Dylan Blair from Eagle Valley and Noah Thompson of Lewis-Palmer both impressed with 14:28.54 at the same challenge.

Indiana’s Noblesville High School sits 12th nationally, ahead of Illinois’ Downers Grove North at 16th and Bloomington North at 21st.

All eyes now turn toward the Brooks XC Midwest Championship on November 29th in Kenosha, Wisconsin—an electrifying qualifier for nationals.