Mauston, WI
News
Campfire Kevin to entertain at Terrace Heights Retirement Community
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
On Tuesday, April 22 at 2 pm, Campfire Kevin will be performing at Terrace Heights Retirement Community in Mauston. Kevin entertains his audience by playing those well-known campfire tunes that have been loved for years. He sings, he plays guitar, and he takes requests!
The event is free and open to the public; however, space is limited. If you would like to attend the April 22 performance, call 608-847-2377 to reserve your spot today. Also ask about a facility tour; apartments are now available.
To see more events like this, check out the upcoming events page at milebluff.com.
Local Coalition Invites Community to Unite for Youth Substance UsePrevention Summit
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
The Sauk County Partnership for Prevention Coalition will host the Building a
Healthier Sauk County: Youth Substance Use Prevention Summit on May 15, 2025 in Lake Delton.
Community members, parents, educators, law enforcement, social services, prevention specialists, and
healthcare professionals are invited to attend to develop comprehensive strategies to reduce youth
substance use in Sauk County communities.
The half-day summit will address critical challenges facing local youth, focusing on evidence-based
prevention approaches for alcohol, tobacco, and other substance use. Participants will engage in
discussions of community specific factors, share best practices, and develop actionable community-
wide prevention strategies. A free hot breakfast will be served.
“This summit represents an important opportunity for our Sauk County communities to come
together and make a meaningful difference in youth health,” says Kate Hansen, coalition coordinator
and health educator with Public Health Sauk County. “By sharing knowledge and coordinating our
efforts, we can create more effective prevention programs.”
Summit Takeaways:
• Better understand current trends in youth substance use with local data from focus groups and
surveys.
• Prioritize substances on which to focus prevention efforts.
• Discover shared priorities across organizations and community sectors.
• Develop prevention strategies that work to reduce youth substance use.
For questions, contact Kate Hansen at kate.hansen@saukcountywi.gov or 608-477-3609.
Date: May 15, 2025Time: 8:30 AM – 12:30 PM; Doors open at 8:15amLocation: Monk’s Bar & Grill at The Wilderness (33 Hilman Road, Lake Delton)Cost: FreeRegistration Required by April 30th: www.p4psauk.org/prevention-summit-2025
Gov. Evers, WisDOT Announce $108 Million in Quarterly Transportation Aids to Improve Local Roads
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in State News
Gov. Tony Evers, together with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (WisDOT), today announced counties and municipalities across the state received more than $108 million for General Transportation, Connecting Highway, and Expressway Policing Aids to help repair, maintain, and improve local roads and highways in every corner of Wisconsin. This announcement builds upon Gov. Evers’ efforts over the last six years to fix Wisconsin’s local roads and infrastructure to ensure the state has the 21st-century infrastructure that residents, businesses, and visitors depend on. Since 2019, the Evers Administration has improved or repaired more than 8,600 miles of road and 2,000 bridges statewide. Wisconsinites could drive from Wausau, Wisconsin, to San Diego, California, and back—twice—on the number of miles of roads fixed.
“Over the past six years, we’ve been working hard to fix the darn roads and repair more than 8,600 miles of road while investing in our state’s local roads and highways so folks can get from Point A to Point B safely and we can get product to market,” said Gov. Evers. “Fixing our roads and bridges must continue to be a top priority for our state, it’s why my budget plan makes the investments we need to continue our work building the 21st-century infrastructure Wisconsinites need and deserve.”
The 2023-25 budget signed by Gov. Evers provided a two percent increase in program funding for municipalities and counties in both calendar years 2024 and 2025—providing the highest level of funding in state history for the program. The governor’s 2025-27 Executive Budget continues this precedent with an additional three percent increase in the General Transportation Aids program in calendar years 2026 and 2027. Total funding for all WisDOT local programs, including General Transportation Aids, makes up almost one-third of the state’s transportation budget. For calendar year 2025, in total, local governments will receive more than $540 million in General Transportation Aids to support transportation-related projects over the course of the year.
“A safe and efficient transportation system starts with quality roads,” said WisDOT Secretary Kristina Boardman. “We are working with local leaders across Wisconsin to improve the first and last mile of everyone’s trip, whether it’s a school pickup or drop off, doctor’s office visit or grocery store run, we’re committed to delivering infrastructure improvements that impact safety and strengthen our economy.”
The second quarter payments, made on April 7, totaled $108,293,793.76 and included:
- General Transportation Aids – $103,779,044.68 to local units of government;
- Connecting Highway Aids – $4,258,774.08 to eligible municipalities; and
- Expressway Policing Aids – $255,975 to Milwaukee County
General Transportation Aids help cover the costs of constructing, maintaining, and operating roads and streets under local jurisdiction. Connecting Highway Aids reimburse municipalities for maintenance and traffic control of certain state highways within municipalities. Expressway Policing Aids help the Milwaukee County Sheriff’s Department with the costs of patrolling expressways within the county.
Quarterly payments for cities, villages, and towns are made in four installments on the first Monday in January, April, July, and October. County payments are made in three installments, with 25 percent of the total annual payment on the first Monday in January; 50 percent on the first Monday in July; and 25 percent on the first Monday in October.
A complete list of the second-quarter aid payments is available here.
Steil and Van Orden constituents visit Washington D.C. to demand congressmen fight for working families over tax breaks for the ultra-rich
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in State News
This week, Wisconsinites from the 1st and 3rd Congressional Districts visited Washington D.C. to ask their members of Congress directly to prioritize working families and seniors instead of continuing an all-out push to cut programs they depend on.
Grassroots advocates and community leaders with Opportunity Wisconsin traveled to Washington D.C. to meet with their members of Congress and ask them to oppose devastating cuts that will raise costs and make it harder for Wisconsin families and communities to succeed. Participants also joined Fair Share America for a rally in front of the Capitol, calling out the continued push by President Trump and Republicans in Congress to give new tax breaks to billionaires and big corporations instead of delivering relief to those who need it most.
Yesterday, Congressional Republicans advanced a budget resolution, which will force $1.5 trillion in cuts, a move the nonpartisan Congressional Budget Office previously said would force cuts to Medicaid and other essential programs. Wisconsin’s entire Republican congressional delegation, including Reps. Van Orden and Steil, voted in favor of the resolution.
Wisconsinites visiting Washington D.C. spoke out against yesterday’s vote for dangerous cuts to programs:
Oliver Winn, Eau Claire: “We’re in Washington D.C. because we’re tired of Republicans in Congress coming after programs that help our most vulnerable family members and neighbors succeed – all in an effort to give more to those who are well-off. Whether it’s making sure healthcare programs are affordable and accessible or protecting access to nutrition assistance to ensure everyone is able to put food on their table, it’s time for our elected officials to fight with us, not stand by while programs his constituents depend on are torn down. During our meeting yesterday, Congressman Van Orden made a commitment to me that he would not make cuts to these critical programs. As a Medicaid beneficiary who also relies on SNAP, his track record leaves me skeptical that he will follow through on that commitment and we will continue to hold him accountable as this process moves forward.”
LuAnn Bird, Hales Corner: “My family is already witnessing what happens when Republicans in Congress refuse to stand up to harmful cuts. My paralyzed husband put his life on the line in Vietnam. He is completely bed bound now and he depends on the VA to keep him alive. All of his spinal cord doctors and nurses were offered a buyout with no guarantee that their jobs would be there in the future. Now his life is on the line again but this time from the Trump administration. Even more Wisconsinites will suffer unless Congressman Steil starts standing up for us and opposes even more devastating cuts while supporting tax breaks for the wealthy. It’s time for Congress to get back to the basics and fight for our working families, seniors, and veterans.”
Dr. Donn Dexter, Eau Claire: “I’ve spent more than three decades as a doctor working to keep patients healthy and thriving. That’s a mission that becomes even harder as Congress cuts programs like Medicaid and cuts back on lifesaving research that has the power to transform how we treat and prevent diseases. These shortsighted cuts are dangerous and detrimental to public health. It’s time for Congress to protect access to affordable medical care, not raise costs and shutter successful programs.”
Grand Marsh Man Found Guilty in Juneau County Murder
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
47 Year old Donald Dalberg been found guilty of 15 counts, including First-degree Intentional Homicide and Mutilating a Corpse, according to On-line record.
Dalberg, of Grand Marsh, was convicted of first-degree intentional homicide in connection with the murder of Floyd Burdick, 57.
On January 18, 2024, reports of a deceased man along County Highway M were called into the Juneau County Sheriff’s Office. The caller reported finding a body that appeared to have been burned and left in the snow.
Dalberg will face sentencing in Juneau County in May.
Learn About Vaccines at Terrace Heights
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
The public is invited to join the tenants of Terrace Heights Retirement Community in Mauston on Wednesday, April 23, at 2:00 p.m. for an informative and engaging presentation about vaccines in older adults, presented by Mile Bluff’s Pharmacist, Craig Griffis.
Whether you’re a senior, a caregiver or just want to stay in the know, you will not want to miss this opportunity.
This event is free and open to the public, but space is limited. Call 608-847-2377 to reserve your spot today!
Ask about a facility tour; apartments are now available.
To see more events like this, check out the upcoming events page at milebluff.com.
Mile Bluff Urgent Care Relocating to New Mauston Location
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
Mile Bluff Medical Center has announced that its urgent care services will soon be moving to a new, more convenient location inside the Mile Bluff Gateway Center. Beginning Monday, April 21, urgent care will be available at 406 Gateway Avenue in Mauston.
The new facility is designed to continue providing the same high-quality, compassionate care the community has come to expect. Patients can look forward to a modern and comfortable environment for addressing urgent medical needs.
Currently, the emergency and urgent care departments at Mile Bluff share the same space at the main campus in Mauston. This can sometimes make it difficult for patients to know where to go for care. Understanding the difference between urgent care and emergency services can save time, money, and stress—and it can make a big difference in how quickly a patient receives treatment.
NEW Urgent Care Hours:
Beginning April 21, urgent care will be open 7 days a week from 9:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
This marks an expansion of hours, providing patients with more flexibility and access to care when they need it most.
No appointment is necessary to receive care, and patients are seen in the order of arrival. The urgent care team is available to help with a wide range of non-life-threatening medical concerns.
When to Visit Urgent Care vs. the Emergency Room
- Urgent Care is ideal for non-life-threatening issues such as:
- Minor cuts, sprains, or strains
- Cold, flu, or allergies
- Infections (e.g., urinary tract or ear infections)
- Deep bruises or rashes
- Emergency Room (ER) care is for serious, life-threatening conditions such as:
- Chest pain, difficulty breathing, or heart attack symptoms
- Stroke symptoms, head injuries, or loss of consciousness
- Uncontrolled bleeding, severe burns, or deep cuts
- Sudden or severe abdominal pain
In emergency situations, Mile Bluff’s Emergency Room remains open 24/7 at the main campus, located at 1050 Division Street in Mauston.
Mile Bluff Medical Center is committed to ensuring a smooth transition as urgent care services move to the new Gateway Avenue location. The organization thanks the community for its continued trust and looks forward to welcoming patients to the updated space.
St. Joe’s Memorial Foundation to host delicious soup and salad lunch.
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
St. Joseph’s Memorial Foundation will be hosting a soup and salad lunch fundraiser on Tuesday, April 22 at Gundersen St. Joseph’s Hospital.
Lunch is $10 per person and includes a 12oz soup of your choice, Caesar salad, bread, and cookie. All soups are prepared in house by St. Joe’s Café and choices include cheesy broccoli, French onion, or cheeseburger soup.
Lunch is available 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Gundersen St. Joseph’s Hospital. All funds raised go to support the programs of St. Joseph’s Memorial Foundation. In recognition of administrative professional’s day, lunch delivery will be provided to local businesses.
Businesses seeking delivery can direct questions to Dan Howard at djhoward@gundersenhealth.org.
MONROE COUNTY MAN SENTENCED TO 7 YEARS IN PRISONFOR REPEATEDLY SEXUALLY ASSAULTING 3 CHILDREN
2 months
by WRJC WebMaster
in Local News
George “Wyatt” Conti, age 27, was sentenced to 7 years in prison for
sexually assaulting 3 children repeatedly between 2020 and 2021 at a residence in Tomah. Court
documents show Conti was charged with child sex crimes in July 2022 and that the children were
approximately 4, 9, and 14 years of age when the defendant began assaulting them. Conti
admitted to the most serious felonies lodged against him in December 2024. He faced 105 years
of confinement in prison.
Monroe County Circuit Court Judge Richard Radcliffe sentenced Conti on April 2, 2025.
The Wisconsin Department of Corrections recommended Conti be sentenced to a prison term of
13-16 years. Conti, citing his cognitive limitations, asked to be placed on probation. The
prosecutor, Chief Assistant District Attorney (ADA) Sarah Skiles, expressed concern about
protecting the community from Conti, noting Conti said he sexually assaulted the victims at “every
chance” he had and said he knew what he did was wrong but that he would do it again. Skiles
argued Conti should be confined for 20 years. As Judge Radcliffe outlined Conti’s sentence, he
observed offenses involving the sexual assault of children are serious and our community believes
these types of offenders should go to prison; however, Judge Radcliffe concluded Conti had “less
culpability” due to Conti’s intellectual impairments which warranted a lesser prison term.
Conti is expected to be released from prison at the end of 2030. After his release, he will
be supervised by the Wisconsin Department of Corrections for 15 years. Conti will be required to
register as a sexual offender for life.
The investigation of this case was conducted by Detective Kirk Bedenbaugh of the Monroe
County Sheriff’s Office with assistance from the City of Princeton Police Department and the staff
at Stepping Stones Child Advocacy Center. After sentencing, Chief ADA Skiles commented, “It
has been said that the way society treats it’s children reveals a lot about society’s soul. Our office
remains extremely grateful to have law enforcement partners, such as the Sheriff’s Office, who
are dedicated to doing their part in protecting the children in our community from sexual predators
like George Conti.”
