5/12/2026

N. WISCONSIN - Almost half of young children in the U-S live in childcare deserts, according to a new report. In Wisconsin, fifty-four percent of residents don’t have access to adequate childcare, with higher numbers for rural areas. The Center for American Progress says the gap percentage rises to 70 percent in Wisconsin's smaller communities. The Center's Casey Peeks says this creates a stark urban-rural divide. She notes policymakers are rightfully focused on affordability issues given childcare costs are out of reach for most American families, but adds that’s only part of the problem.

                    0:09  "You could make childcare free for every family living in a rural community tomorrow, but that's not going to solve the access piece."

Peeks says the data underscores the need for comprehensive solutions that address both cost and availability simultaneously, which starts with addressing the workforce. She says inadequate staffing leads to program closures and causes less options and higher costs for families.

5/12/2026

N. WISCONSIN - After months of negotiations, Gov. Tony Evers announced a $1.8 billion bipartisan tax relief deal that will send rebate checks to tax filters, eliminate tax on tips and overtime and increase funding for public schools.  Single-income tax filers who filed a return in 2024 will receive a $300 refund, while married couples who filed jointly will receive $600. The deal will also eliminate state income tax on cash tips and overtime.  The bipartisan deal also includes a $600 million increase for public school funding, with $300 million for general school aid for K-12 schools starting in 2026-27 and another $300 million for special education funding.  Evers said he is confident that the measure will pass.  Democratic State Senator Kelda Roys, who is running for governor, released a statement, calling the deal the “height of fiscal irresponsibility.”  Republican State Senator Steve Nass also rejected the deal, calling it another “Bad Deal” The deal is expected to deal be taken up by state’s Joint Finance Committee today and will be voted on by the Assembly and state Senate tomorrow.

5/11/2026

VILAS COUNTY - On Saturday afternoon, a fire originated in a wood pile and then spread to a building on U.S. Highway 45 in Land O' Lakes. The Vilas County 911 Center was alerted to smoke at 6373 U.S. Highway 45 just before 2:30. When they arrived, emergency crews discovered a burning pile of wood behind a building, with flames spreading. Fortunately, the business was closed, and no staff members were present. A multi-agency response included fire departments from Land O' Lakes, Conover, Phelps, Eagle River, and Watersmeet. Support was also provided by the Vilas County Sheriff's Office, Land O' Lakes EMS, WE Energy, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The Vilas County Sheriff's Office and the Land O' Lakes Fire Department are investigating the incident.