2/04/2026

ASHLAND - Preparations are underway for the 29th annual Book Across the Bay on February 14th. On the 29th, Marengo Valley Elementary students who have helped with the event for 11 years and the Ashland Fire Department, helping for the first time, have created about 1,200 ice luminaries for the 10K course from Washburn to Ashland. The luminaries will guide thousands of participants in the 10K walk, run, snowshoe, or cross-country ski challenge. This year, the route reverses, starting in Washburn and ending in Ashland. Festivities begin at the Ashland Marina at 10 a.m. Shuttle buses will take registrants to Washburn’s West End Park for the 6 p.m. start back to Ashland. For more information, go to www.batb.org

2/04/2026

ASHLAND - Ashland’s Bretting Community Center’s drop-in program has announced an updated winter schedule, running Sunday through Thursday. Drop-in sessions offer a wide range of activities suitable for all ages, including open gym access, an open game room, climbing, and pickleball. Most activities are available for a $1 fee, with times varying daily. For the complete, detailed schedule, guests can refer to the Ashland Parks and Rec post on Facebook or at coawi.org and search Bretting Community Center. Additionally, visitors are advised to check the whiteboard at the community center for any last-minute changes to the schedule.

2/03/2026

ASHLAND COUNTY - Cumberland Police arrested three Ashland residents following a routine traffic stop late Saturday. The stop and subsequent search, based on probable cause, led to the seizure of significant quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, and marijuana. The individuals arrested were identified as Sophie Lemieux, Robert Powless, and Jordan Jensen. All three were booked into the Barron County Jail and face anticipated formal charges including possession with intent to deliver and possession of controlled substances. The investigation by the Cumberland Police Department is ongoing.