News

Governor Evers approves WIS 21 improvements, Juneau County

To invest in Wisconsin’s transportation system, Governor Evers recently signed a $6.5 million contract to replace the pavement along WIS 21 between Sheridan Street in Necedah and Adams County line in Juneau County. Preliminary work is scheduled to begin June 2.

 

Chippewa Concrete Services is the prime contractor for the project. The project is designed to replace deteriorated pavement. Improvements include replacement of concrete pavement between Sheridan Street and the railroad crossing, updated curb ramps and traffic signals at the WIS 80 intersection, installation of a roundabout at County G and centerline and shoulder rumble strips in rural areas.

 

WIS 21 will remain open to traffic under single lane closures with flagging operations.

 

Project completion is scheduled for October 17. The schedule is dependent on favorable weather conditions and construction progress.

 

For more information regarding traffic impacts, transportation news and improvement project updates in Wisconsin’s Southwest Region:

 

Motorists are reminded that using handheld cell phones in Wisconsin work zones is illegal. Alerts and updates provided via these sites are not intended for use while driving. When driving, your focus should always be on driving.

Mile Bluff Medical Center hosts monthly diabetes discussions

If you are looking for answers and tips on how to live your life to the fullest while managing diabetes, plan to attend this month’s Diabetes Connect. At this informative and engaging discussion, Mile Bluff’s team of experts will be available to cover a variety of key topics, while you’ll also have the opportunity to connect with others and get tips from those on a similar health journey.

 

This event is free and open to everyone, including individuals with pre-diabetes and diabetes, as well as their loved ones and caregivers. Don’t miss this opportunity to gain valuable insight toward living your best, and healthiest, life.

 

Diabetes Connect will be held on Thursday, June 5 at 1pm at Mile Bluff Medical Center in Mauston.

 

Registration is not required to attend. A virtual option is also available. Call 1 week in advance for details.

 

For more information, call 608-847-1848 or visit the upcoming events page at milebluff.com.

 

Juneau County Sheriffs Department Promotes Eli Schroeder

The Juneau County Sheriff’s Office is proud to announce the promotion of Eli Schroeder to the rank of Lieutenant. Lieutenant Schroeder has been an integral part of our department since 2018, consistently demonstrating dedication, leadership, and professionalism in every role he’s taken on.
Throughout his time with us, Lieutenant Schroeder has served as a valued member of our Tactical Team and as a Field Training Officer, where he played a key role in mentoring and preparing new deputies for service. His commitment to both officer development and public safety has earned him the respect of his peers and the community alike.
Lieutenant Schroeder holds a bachelor’s degree in Resource Management Law Enforcement from UW-Stevens Point, bringing a strong educational background and practical expertise to his new leadership role.
Please join us in congratulating Lieutenant Eli Schroeder on this well-deserved promotion. We look forward to his continued service and leadership within our department!

Join Mile Bluff Medical Center Foundation for 15th Annual Golf Outing

Golfers are always looking for a good excuse to break out the clubs. This summer, Mile Bluff Medical Center Foundation is providing the perfect reason to hit the greens by inviting all golfers to attend the 15th annual golf outing on Thursday, August 7.

 

Held at Castle Rock Golf Course, this four-person scramble is a fun day that supports local healthcare.  Throughout the day, golfers can participate in course games and raffles and end the day with a delicious meal at the awards banquet. 

 

Proceeds from the outing are just one of the many ways the foundation strives to impact the health of the community.  When golfers join the foundation on the course, they are assisting Mile Bluff in bringing the latest technology, advanced services, and best care possible to the community.

 

If you like to golf, plan on heading to Castle Rock Golf Course on August 7 for a great event that supports local healthcare.  Golfers and sponsors can learn more about the event by visiting www.milebluff.com/golf-outing.   For more information about golf registration or sponsorship opportunities, call Katie at 608-847-2735. 

 

We hope to see you on the greens!

Narrows Dairy – Nolden Family Farm Hosting Sauk County Dairy Breakfast


A June Dairy Month tradition, the 34 th Sauk County Dairy Breakfast will be held on
Sat., June 7, 2025, at the Narrows Dairy – Nolden Family Farm. Located at S419A
Buckeye Road, Rock Springs, the morning will be filled with great food,
entertainment and the opportunity to see a working family farm.
Breakfast and entertainment will run from 7 a.m. through 11 a.m. Menu items
include pancakes, scrambled eggs with ham, sausage, cheese curds, applesauce,
milk, juice, coffee and Culver’s frozen custard with toppings. Featured
entertainment include Alice in Dairyland, the Wisconsin Fairest of the Fair, the
Cripple Cree Cloggers and the musical group Remember with Randy. Educational
exhibits and the opportunity to view farm equipment, cows and calves make the
dairy breakfast a great opportunity to gain more experience about the important
Wisconsin dairy industry.
This year’s hosts, Narrows Dairy, is owned and operated by the Nolden Family
Farm. Operated by Ken and Matt Nolden along with family members Tammi,
Peggy, Heather, Emily and Julia, the dairy uses two Lely robotic milkers to milk the
cows. Attendees can watch the robotic milkers in person or on a video. The farm
follows conservation practices on their family-owned farm and utilize rotational
grazing with their cattle. The dairy’s herd consists of 150 milking and dry cows,
145 replacement heifers and 520 acres.
Tickets are available at the breakfast. Adults are $10, children 5-11 are $5 and
children under 5 are free. Please follow posted dairy breakfast road signs for easy
access to the site. Parking is available onsite.
For additional information and updates, please follow the Sauk County Dairy
Breakfast Facebook page at Sauk County Dairy Breakfast. For more information,
please call 608-393-4079.

Dr. Plamann Wins Prestigious Award

Each year, Rural Wisconsin Health Cooperative – RWHC honors exceptional individuals from member hospitals who go above and beyond in promoting their organizations and advancing rural healthcare.
This year, Dr. Ryan Plamann, pediatrician at Mile Bluff Medical Center, has been named Mile Bluff’s 2025 Rural Health Ambassador in recognition of his outstanding dedication to the health and well-being of the community.
With over 15 years of experience serving in a rural setting, Dr. Plamann is a true champion of rural healthcare and public service. Since joining the Mile Bluff team in 2010, he has consistently gone the extra mile — not just for his patients, but for the entire community.
Outside of his work at Mile Bluff, Dr. Plamann wears many hats, including:
?Serving on the Juneau County Board of Public Health
?Acting as medical advisor for the Mauston, New Lisbon, and Necedah Public School Districts
?Advocating for rural public education
?And being a monthly guest on 92one WRJC‘s morning radio show, “The Doc Is In”, where he shares health insights, tips, and strategies to help improve community wellness.
His volunteerism, leadership, and community involvement make a lasting impact — both in healthcare and beyond. Dr. Plamann truly embodies the values of compassion, service, and advocacy.
Please join us in thanking and congratulating Dr. Plamann for his remarkable service and unwavering dedication to Mile Bluff, his patients, and the greater rural community.

Mental Health Awareness Day to Take Place at Wonewoc Farmers Market

Tutti Noi Farmers Market is pleased to announce it will host a special Mental Health Awareness Day on Saturday, May 17, 2025, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM. The event aims to shine a light on the importance of mental well-being by emphasizing the core values of Compassion, Connection, and Conversation, all of which are naturally cultivated within the vibrant atmosphere of the community market.

In an increasingly fast-paced world, taking a moment to nurture our mental health is more important than ever. The Tutti Noi Farmers Market( pronounced Two-tee New EE) provides a unique setting where these essential elements of well-being can flourish.

This isn’t just any market day; it’s a day dedicated to fostering Connection, Compassion, and Conversation – three vital ingredients for our well-being.
“Tutti Noi” is Italian for “all of us,” and it perfectly captures our vision for this event: a day where we remember that we’re all in this together, that you’re not alone, and that you are always welcome here. It’s a day to come together, share a smile, and support one another.
How does a farmers market bring these important themes to life? We’re so glad you asked!

 

Connection: Imagine a vibrant space where fresh produce meets friendly faces, and local artisans share their crafts alongside dedicated mental health providers. The Tutti Noi Farmers Market is a natural gathering place, bringing diverse members of our community together. Whether you drive, walk, or bike to the 400 State Trail rest area, you’ll find a welcoming hub designed for easy interaction and shared experiences. It’s a chance to connect with neighbors, make new friends, and feel the strength of our community bond.
Compassion: In the open, relaxed atmosphere of the market, compassion can flourish. With mental health providers on-site, ready to share resources and lend a listening ear, we’re creating a space where understanding and support are paramount. The “Tutti Noi” spirit means everyone is met with kindness, and help is offered freely and without judgment.
Conversation: Sometimes, the most meaningful conversations happen in the most casual settings. As you wander through the market stalls, grab a bite to eat or a cup of coffee, or participate in an activity, opportunities for conversation will abound. Chat with a farmer about their harvest, discuss well-being with a provider, or simply share a laugh with a friend. We’re creating an environment where talking openly – whether it’s light-hearted banter or something more profound – feels natural and encouraged.
“We believe that a thriving community is one that supports the well-being of all its members, and that includes mental health,” says [Angie Cain, Tutti Noi Market Manager ]. “The farmers market is more than just a place to buy groceries; it’s a hub where compassion, connection, and conversation happen organically. On May 17th, we want to intentionally highlight these aspects and encourage everyone to reflect on their own mental well-being and that of those around them.”

Attendees can expect the usual vibrant array of fresh, local produce, artisanal goods, and delicious food, all within an atmosphere that consciously promotes positive mental health through community engagement. Additional activities include fun interactive games and mixers,presentations and short stories, tools and resources from local providers and a fun day.

Join us at the Tutti Noi Farmers Market on Saturday, May 17th, between 9:00 AM and 2:00 PM to celebrate and support mental health through the simple yet powerful acts of compassion, connection, and conversation.

About Tutti Noi Farmers Market: Tutti Noi Farmers Market is a weekly community-focused market dedicated to providing fresh, locally sourced produce and artisanal products. It aims to foster a vibrant community space that supports local agriculture and small businesses.Open May 10-October 25 Saturdays 9am-2pm Check out our facebook for special events including kids and evening markets

New vendors welcome!

Contact: Angie Cain

Market Manager

Tutti Noi Farmers Market in Wonewoc

200 West Street on the 400 State Trail

(414) 216-1774

tuttinoimarket@gmail.com

TOMAH MAN SENTENCED TO 17 YEARS IN PRISON IN CONNECTION TO CHILD ABUSECRIMES



Daimon Verken, age 23, of Tomah has been sentenced to 17 years of
confinement and 23 years of extended supervision after he pleaded guilty to offenses of child
neglect, sexual exploitation of a child, second degree sexual assault of a child, use of a computer
to facilitate a child sex crime, and exposing genitals. The offenses involved four juvenile victims
and occurred between January and July 2023 in Tomah. Verken will be required to register with
the sex offender registry for life.
These cases were investigated by Lieutenant Paul Sloan and Investigator Brittnay
Westpfahl of the Tomah Police Department. They were prosecuted by Monroe County District
Attorney Kevin Croninger and Chief Assistant District Attorney Sarah Skiles. “We are grateful to
the brave survivors who came forward with information that led to the defendant being held
accountable,” said the prosecutors. “We are appreciative of the extensive investigatory work of the
Tomah Police Department. Their thoroughness and efforts led to these significant convictions and
sentence that hold the defendant responsible for his actions and protect our community.”

Waving at Farmer Leads to Vehicle Accident Near Cashton

Late Tuesday morning, May 6, 2025, at approximately 11:30 AM, the Sheriff’s Office received a 9-1-1 call
reporting a two-vehicle collision on Oneida Road, rural Cashton, Wi, in the Town of Clinton.

Wayne K. Kruizenga, 64 of Rural Viroqua, was driving a 2011 Ford F150 traveling north when he looked
out his passenger window to waive at a farmer. When Kruizenga looked back to the road, he saw a 2024
Jeep operated by Duane W. Meyer Jr., 47 of Holmen, WI. Meyer was pulling away from a mailbox after
completing a postal delivery. Kruizenga braked and steered left while Meyer accelerated and went right.
The Kruizenga vehicle struck the left, rear of the Meyer vehicle.

Kruizenga and Meyer, both wearing seat belts, were seen by first responders, but refused treatment.

The airbag deployed in the Kruizenga vehicle.

Assisting the Sheriff’s Office at the scene were La Farge Area Ambulance, and Cashton Fire & Rescue.

Attend Upcoming MBMC-Necedah Health Fair May 15th

 

Reserve your spot at the upcoming health fair being held at Mile Bluff – Necedah Family Medical Center Thursday, May 15 from 7 to 10 am.  Receive free blood pressure and blood sugar testing, and learn what your risk factors are for developing heart disease and diabetes.

 

Appointments are required for all services, so call 608-565-2000 to reserve your spot today!

 

To see more events like this, check out the upcoming events page at milebluff.com.

Go to Top