Western Kenosha County families are looking forward to the grand opening of the newly renovated playground at Old Settlers Park.

The upgraded site brings improved accessibility and advanced safety features, allowing children of all abilities to enjoy outdoor play.

The official ribbon-cutting takes place June 11 at 5:30 p.m. at 24100 75th St., with County Executive Samantha Kerkman and Parks Director Wyatt Moore headlining the event.

Highlights include a wheelchair transfer slide and an accessible rocker, plus the park’s first poured-in-place surface for smoother mobility.

These changes reflect the county’s commitment to inclusion and safety.

After the ceremony, the 2026 Rhythm on the Lake series kicks off with a free show by the 90s Jake Band from 6–8 p.m.

Residents are invited to bring lawn chairs or blankets and enjoy live music throughout summer.

The revitalized park stands as a symbol of Kenosha County’s dedication to every child’s right to play and belong.

Kenosha County Parks is kicking off summer the week of June 8 with an energetic lineup of free community events.

At Petrifying Springs Park, Yoga in the Park returns Mondays from 5:30–6:30 p.m. through August 10, led by Align Wellness Collective and open to all skill levels.

New this year, Pilates in the Park will take place Tuesdays, 6–7 p.m., offering another fun outdoor fitness experience.

Bristol Woods Park hosts the Bristol Woodstock concert series each Wednesday, while Rhythm on the Lake fills Old Settlers Park with live music every Thursday, 6–8 p.m., featuring regional talent.

Movie lovers can catch films under the stars at Petrifying Springs every Friday from June 19, plus a new Saturday movie series at Old Settlers Park starting July 11.

Pages in the Park encourages residents to read outdoors monthly, partnering with local libraries from June to October to foster community and literacy.

All events are weather-dependent; bring your own seating and dress for cool evenings.

Kenosha residents looking for job opportunities and support are encouraged to attend the Success Fair happening Friday, June 5, from 1 to 3 p.m. at the Kenosha County Job Center, 8600 Sheridan Road.

This annual event, led by Equus Workforce Solutions, the Southeastern Wisconsin Workforce Development Board, and United Way of Kenosha County, is designed to connect local job seekers with employers and community organizations.

Attendees can engage directly with hiring managers representing manufacturing, healthcare, hospitality, construction, and more.

Local agencies will also be on site to provide guidance on childcare, healthcare, food assistance, veteran services, and career readiness.

Every guest will be entered into a raffle for a $50 gift card, and those who complete the Success Fair Passport by collecting vendor signatures can increase their chances of winning.

This event highlights Kenosha’s dedication to empowering individuals and strengthening the local workforce.

Kenosha County will honor Memorial Day with community events recognizing those who have served our nation.

The Pritzker Military Museum & Library in Somers opens the weekend with a special remembrance program on Saturday, May 23, at 11 a.m., featuring remarks by Lt. Col. Jennifer Pritzker and family-friendly activities throughout the day.

On Sunday, May 24, a ceremony will take place at Southern Wisconsin Veterans Memorial Cemetery in Union Grove.

Monday, May 25, brings parades and services in Kenosha, Silver Lake, Twin Lakes, and Pleasant Prairie, hosted by local American Legion and VFW posts.

Highlights include ceremonies at Green Ridge Cemetery, Sunset Ridge Memorial Park, and Library Park with readings, music, and wreath dedications.

All events invite residents to join in remembrance and gratitude for our veterans’ sacrifices.

The Kenosha Fire Department staged a dramatic live burn training on Friday, May 8, 2026, at a vacant city-owned home on 57th Street, giving local firefighters immersive, hands-on experience under intense, realistic conditions.

Crews practiced interior fire attacks, rescues, and ventilation tactics throughout the day, rotating under watchful supervision to ensure safety.

The exercise began before sunrise, with final burn operations ignited from the basement by mid-afternoon, sending heavy smoke visible across the neighborhood.

Part of Kenosha’s urban redevelopment, the home at 2214 57th Street was carefully prepared according to national fire-training standards before the operation commenced.

Spectators gathered along sidewalks to observe the skilled teamwork as firefighters braved heat, smoke, and rapidly changing conditions during each phase.

Officials emphasized these live fire drills as crucial for preparing crews to safely confront real emergencies and protect the Kenosha community.

Early Saturday morning, an off-duty Kenosha County Sheriff's Deputy helped avert disaster during an overnight house fire in Wadsworth, Illinois.

Around 1:40 a.m., she spotted flames rising from a woodpile beside a garage on Mauser Drive and quickly alerted emergency crews.

Her swift response enabled first responders to arrive rapidly, leading to the safe evacuation of the home's residents before the situation worsened.

The Newport Township Fire Protection District arrived to find the blaze had caused significant damage to three vehicles and the home's siding.

No injuries were reported among those inside the home or responding personnel.

The fire’s cause remains under investigation.

This event highlights the vital impact of alertness and quick action by local law enforcement and neighbors when emergencies strike.

In Kenosha, Wisconsin, local dog rescue groups are making a powerful impact on animal welfare and the lives of abandoned dogs.

Rettungs-Haus Shepherds, Inc. stands out for its devotion to rehabilitating German Shepherds, carefully evaluating each dog to ensure the right match for adoption.

Many graduates of this non-profit go on to become service and therapy dogs, a testament to the organization’s care and expertise.

Kenosha Forgotten Friends provides hope for sick and abandoned animals by working through a network of foster homes, creating safe environments while animals wait for families.

Angel’s Paws tackles high-risk rescues, focusing on lifesaving efforts and promoting spaying and neutering to prevent cruelty and overpopulation.

Support from the community—through adoption, volunteering, fostering, or donations—remains critical, helping Kenosha ensure every dog finds a chance at love and safety.

The proposed Hard Rock Casino Kenosha has taken a major step forward after the U.S. Bureau of Indian Affairs released a draft environmental assessment, finding that the new casino would have minimal impact on local air, water, and traffic.

Located near I-94 and County Highway K, the project aims to transform farmland into a vibrant entertainment hub.

The Menominee Tribe worked closely with Kenosha officials in early 2024, forging vital agreements to advance the development.

Federal approval is still required, with Wisconsin’s governor holding the final decision.

Previous efforts in 2015 stalled over concerns about financial impacts to other tribal agreements.

Menominee Tribal Chair Joey Awonohopay expressed hope, emphasizing the project’s potential to create more than 1,000 permanent jobs and address critical local needs.

Kenosha leaders are encouraging public input to help shape this transformative opportunity.

Recent severe weather has left Kenosha residents facing significant wind and storm damage, especially to roofs.

Staying safe is the top priority—watch for downed power lines, broken glass, and unstable areas before inspecting your home.

Document all visible damage with photos and videos, as this evidence is crucial when you contact your insurance provider. Many insurers now accept digital submissions, making claims easier and faster.

Be cautious about hiring repair crews that show up unsolicited. "Storm chasers" often use high-pressure sales tactics and may not deliver quality work. Locals are advised to choose reputable Kenosha contractors with proven experience and trusted recommendations.

Before starting repairs, secure a detailed written contract and request lien waivers to avoid unexpected claims from subcontractors.

Regular home maintenance, like professional roof inspections and keeping gutters clear, can help prevent future damage during storms. Proactive steps ensure Kenosha homes remain safe and secure.

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.