News – March 15, 2023

(Juneau) Dodge County Emergency Management officials are asking residents to review their emergency plans. It is part of a statewide initiative led by ReadyWisconsin in conjunction with this past weekend’s Daylight Savings Time change. The county’s Emergency Management Director Joe Meagher says taking steps now can help ensure the supplies you need are ready during severe weather or an emergency. He says “we work better” when discussing the plan beforehand.

(Juneau) Meagher also reminds the public that there is an opportunity Wednesday night to receive weather safety training. Organized by the National Weather Service and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the course will teach participants how to be severe weather aware. The training is being held at the Dodge County Administration Building in Juneau from 6:30pm to 8:30pm. It is open to the public and pre-registration is not required.

(Beaver Dam) A Horicon man charged with making threats towards police makes his initial court appearance. Nathaniel Hoffman allegedly made multiple threats towards authorities after being arrested Saturday, March 11th for giving a false name. He reportedly threatened to have someone come and kill an officer. If convicted, the 36-year-old faces over six years behind bars. Cash bond was set at $1,000 and a preliminary hearing is scheduled for March 23rd.

(Madison) A bill co-authored by a representative from Beaver Dam passed the assembly unanimously Tuesday. Mark Born’s and Senator Howard Marklein’s bill gives county jailers an opportunity to be classified as protective occupation participants. Born says protective status has numerous benefits including a lower retirement age, an increased multiplier for retirement annuities, and duty disability insurance. The bill will need to pass the state senate before it is sent to the governor’s desk for a signature.

(Beaver Dam) Habitat for Humanity’s “Rock the Block” is coming to Beaver Dam in May. Director of Family and Volunteer Services Carly Gloff says the event is a revitalization project for a specific area of the neighborhood. Beaver Dam Restore Manager Laura Goral says that everyone can contribute something whether that be directing traffic or loading up wheelbarrows with topsoil and mulch. The event will be held May 12th and 13th in the 400 and 500 blocks of Madison Street.

(Beaver Dam) A Wisconsin health care provider will not require masks for visitors. SSM Health announced the ending of universal masking starting Wednesday. They cite the “changing status” of COVID in the communities they serve as the reason for dropping the requirement. SSM adds providers and staff will still need to wear personal protective equipment in conjunction with CDC guidelines. – WRN

(Washington County) The Washington County Fair has announced one of its headlining acts. Country music singer and songwriter Rodney Atkins will be performing the Silver Lining Amphitheater Thursday the week of the fair. The show will also feature special guest Mark Wills, who is a Grand Ole Opry Member. The 165th annual Washington County Fair kicks off on July 25th and runs through the 30th.