Local News

New Lisbon Auto Dealership Expanding to Tomah

Rudig Jensen Owners Expand to Tomah with Purchase of Morrie’s Ford CDJR — Launch Freedom Automotive Group

Jordan Schmidt and Derek Nelson, owners of Rudig Jensen and Abra Auto Body Repair of America have officially purchased Morrie’s Ford Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Tomah. The dealership will now operate as Freedom Automotive Group – Ford Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram of Tomah, effective December 1, 2025.

This expansion marks an exciting new chapter for our locally owned automotive group. Schmidt and Nelson, long-standing business leaders in Juneau County, have built their operations on community values, customer trust, and a commitment to high-quality service. Both owners were raised in the Tomah area and are proud to return as local business leaders. With the addition of the Tomah store, they’re extending those same standards to drivers across Monroe County and beyond.

“We’re proud to continue investing locally and expanding opportunities for customers and employees alike,” said Jordan Schmidt, co-owner.

“Freedom Automotive represents more than a name — it’s about choice, trust, and community pride.”

“Our goal is to bring the same high standard of care and service that customers expect in New Lisbon to the Tomah community,” added Derek Nelson, co-owner.

“We’re excited to welcome the Tomah team and continue serving customers with integrity and dedication.”

Freedom Automotive Group will continue to represent both Ford and Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, and Ram brands, offering full sales and service operations. The dealership’s existing staff will remain in place to ensure a smooth transition for customers.

Follow our new Facebook page for Freedom Automotive Group, and drop a “congratulations” below to help us welcome the team!

St. Joseph’s Memorial Foundation’s holiday bake sale and craft fair returns!

St. Joseph’s Memorial Foundation is pleased to announce its annual holiday bake and craft sale, taking place on Friday, December 5, from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the community rooms at Emplify Health by Gundersen Hillsboro Hospital.

The event will feature a wide selection of homemade baked goods, including cookies, candies, and other seasonal treats. In addition, handcrafted items such as soaps and jewelry created by Emplify Health staff will be available for purchase.

Proceeds from the bake sale will benefit the St. Joseph’s Memorial Foundation, which supports vital purchases and programs at Emplify Health by Gundersen Hillsboro.

The sale will begin promptly at 8 a.m., and attendees are encouraged to arrive early to ensure the best selection. Customers are asked to bring their own containers for purchased items.

We invite the community to join us in celebrating the holiday season while supporting a meaningful cause.

 

Juneau County Arrest Report 11-18

No Injuries in Vehicular Pursuit in Juneau County

Juneau County Arrest Report 11-17-25

Juneau County Arrest Report 11-14-25

Juneau County Arrest Report 11-13-25

Juneau County Arrest Report 11-12-25

Hillsboro Man Injured in Truck Accident

Vernon County Sheriff Roy Torgerson reports on Friday afternoon, November 7th, 2025, at approximately 2:00 PM, the Sheriff’s Office 911 Dispatch Center was notified of a single-vehicle crash that occurred at the intersection of State Highway 82 and County Road, in the Town of Forest.

Stephen J. Hynek, age 63, of Hillsboro, WI was operating a 1972 Ford truck travelling southeast on County Road P.  The truck was loaded with shelled corn, and the operator reported a mechanical issue with the brakes as he approached the intersection of Highway 82.  The vehicle went off the left side of the roadway, struck an embankment, and came to rest crossways of both Highway 82 travel lanes.

Injured, Hynek was flown from the scene by GundersenAIR to Gundersen (Emplify) Health System in La Crosse, WI.  

Due to cleanup of the load spillage, Highway 82 was closed until 4:40 PM.

Assisting the Sheriff’s Office were the Hillsboro Police Department, Hillsboro Fire Department, Hillsboro Area Ambulance, GundersenAIR, and the Wisconsin State Patrol.  Vernon County Emergency Management assisted with community notifications of the highway closure.

Sheriff Torgerson would like to commend an alert motorist, a 50-year-old female from Hillsboro, who was traveling east on State Highway.  She saw what was unfolding and stopped west of the intersection.  Another motorist, a 45-year-old male from rural Hillsboro was turning right onto Highway 82, from County Road P and saw the truck quickly approaching from the rear as he made the turn.  This should serve as a reminder to always stay alert when operating a motor vehicle and avoid distractions.  As always, Sheriff Torgerson would like to thank all our volunteers who faithfully and selflessly serve our communities.  A special thanks to everyone who assisted with cleanup.

The crash remains under investigation.

Juneau County Arrest Report 11-6-25

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