4/20/2026

VILAS COUNTY - The Sayner Community Church, a community fixture since 1916, is nearing completion of a multi-year, $180,000 renovation and expansion begun in 2023 to address years of wear, including a slanted floor. The project involved installing a new foundation and straightening the floor, plus adding a 600-square-foot ADA-accessible addition with a bathroom, office, and community area. Board president Shane Zaruba estimates the project is 75% complete, supported by community volunteers. The church needs $34,000 to meet its fundraising goal, which a foundation will match dollar-for-dollar. If you want to donate, you can do so at saynercommunitychurch.org, by mail or in person by stopping by the church.

4/17/2026

N. WISCONSIN – 40-year-old Robert S. Powless, of Ashland, pleaded guilty to possession of narcotic drugs on Wednesday. Powless was one of three charged with multiple drug offenses after a traffic stop in Barron County. Judge James Babler sentenced the currently incarcerated Powless to one year of prison and one year of extended supervision. Other charges were dismissed but read into the record. His supervision mandates abstaining from controlled substances and paraphernalia and completing recommended treatment.

4/17/2026

MINOCQUA – Early Yesterday morning at approximately 5:30am the Minocqua Police Department executed a search warrant at Relentless Precision, on Highway 70 in Minocqua.  Relentless Precision is a local gunsmith business.  The search warrant is part of an active criminal investigation being conducted by the Minocqua Police Department.  The investigation involves alleged property crimes.  Due to the ongoing nature of the investigation, the amount of information being released is limited.  We currently know there are at least 12 victims related to this case.  Any individual who has recently conducted business with Relentless Precision and believes they may be missing property are asked to contact the Minocqua Police Department.