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Schlitz beer is officially taking a break, but not without a wild, heartfelt send-off. Milwaukee’s Wisconsin Brewing Company turned Saturday in Verona into a full-blown celebration—complete with food, games, polka-rock music, and lines of fans from across the country, including a Florida traveler who drove all the way to win a free beer. Brewmaster Kirby Nelson and company president Kevin Zerman proudly honored the iconic brand’s legacy, proving this isn’t just a last call—it’s a party for the ages.

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Pickleball’s big win: Madison College’s second annual indoor championships smashed goals—raising cash to break down student financial barriers while turning courts into community hubs. With Dream Doubles, mini-games, and a crowd buzzing at Pickleball Kingdom, organizers say the vibe was electric. Managing partner Raj Kotte called it a major success, and with weekly summer events on the horizon, this isn’t just about the game—it’s about building a brighter future for students, one rally shot at a time.

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In a tense four-hour standoff in Lomira, deputies confronted Austin Luebke, a 29-year-old with an active arrest warrant, who locked himself inside his home and refused to surrender. After hours of negotiation and the eventual deployment of a K-9 unit at 6 PM, Luebke was found and arrested without force, then medically evaluated before being booked. Prosecutors now consider adding charges for resisting arrest, highlighting how even calm moments can mask high-stakes law enforcement operations.

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Madison Police Handle Active Disturbance Peacefully

Maple Bluff PD shut down 7 Day Spa after investigating prostitution rumors, executing a raid that led to one arrest for running an illegal prostitution ring and hiring unlicensed workers. Another individual found on-site was connected to victim support services, helping those exploited or trafficked. The investigation is ongoing, with more charges possible. Authorities remain focused on dismantling illegal operations and supporting victims.

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After losing her brother Myles to suicide in 2018, McKenna Reichling turned grief into action, launching a new chapter of a mental health support organization for farmers in Grant and Lafayette counties, Wisconsin. Fueled by personal loss and a deep understanding of farming’s hidden pressures, McKenna is breaking down stigma and connecting rural families with vital resources. Partnering with local agencies like the Wisconsin Farm Bureau and Lafayette County Sheriff’s Office, her initiative includes placing QR codes on sheriff vehicles to instantly link farmers to free counseling. Her mission? To transform the perception of seeking help into a cour...

Wisconsin Brewing Company just dropped a wild limited-edition Schlitz beer straight from 1948—complete with a live toast, food, and music. Only a small batch was brewed, and it’s flying off shelves fast. This isn’t just another beer—it’s a time machine for beer lovers, reconnecting with Wisconsin’s brewing roots and sparking serious nostalgia. If you’re a fan of heritage brews, you better move quick before this one disappears.

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A dangerous heat wave is barreling in, with scorching temps in the low to mid-90s and oppressive humidity pushing heat indexes to 110° — all while nights barely cool off. Officials are monitoring for an Extreme Heat Warning, which could trigger if dangerous conditions last four days or more. Travelers heading into the holiday weekend should brace for intense heat, with possible storm relief potentially arriving by Friday or Saturday.

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A tragic motorcycle crash in Halder, Wisconsin, claimed the life of a 41-year-old woman who wasn’t wearing a helmet, while the semi-truck driver escaped injury. Emergency crews responded to the collision on County Road 2 around 6 p.m., and authorities are now investigating the circumstances of the deadly crash. The rider’s name has not been released pending family notification.

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Madison’s Capital Times is shutting down free content for the month, forcing readers to pay up—or wait till next month—to access local news, as the paper pivots toward a subscription model to survive in the digital age.

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Six-time world logrolling champ Shana Verstegen turned her passion into purpose at the Midwest Logrolling Championships, raising funds for Huntington’s Disease research in honor of her late mother. With competitors from across the Midwest, the event blended thrilling athleticism with heartfelt mission — every dollar supports treatment research, patient care, and community education. It’s more than a sport — it’s a movement uniting people for a cause that changes lives.

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Maple Bluff police raided the 7 Day Spa on North Sherman Avenue in a major multi-agency bust targeting prostitution, arresting one person on serious charges including operating an illegal prostitution ring and employing unlicensed workers. Another individual at the spa received support from Project Respect, and the facility is temporarily shut down as authorities continue investigating—expect more charges as the probe deepens.

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The Liberty Bell returned triumphantly to Philadelphia in 1778 after a secret seven-month hiding spree under church floorboards—just as the British fled. More than just a symbol, it’s rung through pivotal moments like the signing of the Declaration. Now permanently stationed at the Liberty Bell Center since 2003, it’s seen Philly evolve—and if you can’t visit, a replica at the state capitol lets you hear its historic echo from afar.

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Racine’s downtown is set for a major transformation with a bold new development featuring over 200 residential units and expansive commercial space, poised to inject fresh energy and economic vitality into the city’s heart. Located in a prime spot, the mixed-use project blends living, working, and shopping spaces to create a dynamic urban hub. After years of planning and community feedback, construction kicks off soon—with completion expected in about two years—bringing hundreds of jobs and reshaping the city’s future. This landmark initiative could become a model for revitalizing other neighborhoods, attracting new residents and businesses while enha...

La Crosse just leveled up with a massive new mixed-use development—60+ apartments and 50,000 sq ft of downtown retail, all wrapped up after 5 years of construction. Think pools, 24-hour gyms, coffee shops, and fire pits—this isn’t just housing, it’s a full-blown neighborhood upgrade. City officials are thrilled, calling it a major step in revitalizing the heart of town. Rentals start at $3,500 for a six-bedroom unit, and one- and two-bedroom options are now live—perfect for young pros and families craving modern city living.

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Traffic fatalities surged nearly seven percent in 2020 despite fewer cars on the road, claiming over 38,000 lives—with speeding, drunk driving, and unbuckled passengers responsible for 45% of crashes. Pedestrian, cyclist, and motorcycle deaths hit record highs, prompting the DOT to launch a bold safety overhaul: tech like automatic braking and impaired-driver detection, speed cameras, and billions for safer infrastructure including lower speed limits, dedicated lanes, and better crosswalks. Speeding alone caused 30% of fatal crashes, up 17% from the prior year, while distracted driving killed over 3,000. Young drivers are three times more likely to die per mile driven. Impaired driving remains deadly—with...

Jacob Misiorowski just blew the roof off the ballpark with a 105.5 mph fastball—tied for third-fastest ever tracked since 2008—and backed it up with a dominant six-inning outing, striking out eight and lowering his ERA to a jaw-dropping 1.45. The Milwaukee Brewers, riding a five-game win streak, crushed the Cubs 6-2 thanks to Misiorowski’s electric arm and two-run homers from Garrett Mitchell and William Contreras. Even manager Pat Murphy, recovering from back surgery, was calling the shots from the sidelines. Meanwhile, Abner Uribe returned from suspension, and Pete Crow-Armstrong’s hot streak ended—but the Brewers are clearly a team on fi...

Dontel Coney, 43, faces felony charges including first-degree sexual assault with a deadly weapon after allegedly cornering a UW Health employee in a bathroom and attempting an assault — charges that could land him up to 60 years in prison if convicted. The victim escaped and alerted authorities, leading to his arrest on multiple counts including bail jumping and probation violations. Court appears July 1 — a pivotal moment in a case that underscores the justice system’s zero-tolerance stance on violent crimes against healthcare workers.

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Wisconsin is on the verge of bringing passenger trains back to Madison, seeking $218 million in federal funds to extend the Amtrak Hiawatha line with new stops in Watertown and Pewaukee—finally connecting the capital directly to the existing route. After a failed attempt in 2010, this updated plan builds on current service and taps into the Midwest’s well-connected rail network, promising to ease traffic and boost regional travel. With a total cost of $272 million, the state still needs to raise $54 million locally. Madison hasn’t seen passenger rail since 1971, and this push feels like the most promising chance yet to rev...

A terrifying attack unfolded at University Hospital when Dontel Coney allegedly stormed a women’s restroom with a knife, threatening a cafeteria worker during her break. Cornering her, he demanded she remove her pants and locked her in a stall—she escaped by screaming for help as he tried to unbutton his pants. Police found a Cutco knife in his backpack; his story shifted from claiming he was looking for a doctor to admitting he was in the wrong bathroom, though denying any verbal threats. He faces serious felony charges, including attempted sexual assault with a weapon, with his firs...

Sun Prairie’s marching band is set to march through Philadelphia’s historic streets during the Salute to Independence Parade — one of only three Wisconsin bands invited to celebrate America’s 250th birthday. With students from both Sun Prairie East and West high schools, this summer crew is blending music, history, and international competition as they represent the U.S. in a global field show. From Independence Hall to Philly cheesesteaks, this trip promises unforgettable moments for the 65-member ensemble, many of whom are experiencing the East Coast for the first time — and they’re ready to shine.

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At 85, Glenn Sperry still shatters water skiing records and dazzles crowds with stunts like stilt skiing and watermelon skis—his fourth annual show proves age is just a number when passion drives you.

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One City Schools is launching a massive countywide effort in Dane County to train a thousand parents, tutors, and educators in the science of reading—aiming to close Wisconsin’s worst racial reading gap and make the county number one in reading proficiency within five to ten years. Led by community champions like former Madison police chief Noble Wray, this grassroots push believes collective action can transform educational futures and turn a national crisis into a local triumph.

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Janesville’s iconic GM/JATCO site is getting a fresh start after the data center plan was officially scrapped — now the city is asking residents to help shape its future. With a community workshop already drawing over 150 attendees and an online survey open until July 8, locals are weighing in on ideas ranging from housing and retail to manufacturing and green spaces. City officials emphasize that success hinges on balancing market needs, land potential, and community input — all three legs of their “stool” must align. Environmental assessments are underway, and feedback will soon be presented to the Redevelopment Advisory Board, with a des...

A 72-year-old Wisconsin man, Robert Marti, drowned while attempting to rescue an injured eagle from Lake Petenwell — a noble act that tragically ended in his own peril. Despite calling for help, he chose to act alone, leaving his home without a life jacket and ending up entangled in underwater debris. His body was found hours later by search crews, and authorities confirmed the death was accidental. A heartbreaking reminder that even well-intentioned heroics can turn deadly without proper safety measures.

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Those quirky food delivery robots rolling around UW-Madison? They’re officially gone, as Starship Technologies pulls out of all U.S. campuses to focus on grocery delivery and overseas expansion. Once a pandemic lifesaver for contactless meals, the bots struggled to stay relevant as students returned to campus — citing extra fees, limited menus, and the simple fact that dining halls were just more practical. While many didn’t miss the service, students did admit they’ll miss the robots’ fun, lighthearted vibe. The university isn’t giving up on campus delivery — they’re already exploring smarter, more student-friendly options.

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Dane County’s “Read Dane: Three Thousand Strong” is sparking a literacy revolution by empowering parents, teachers, and tutors to turn everyday moments into reading adventures—because confidence in words starts small, anywhere, and lasts a lifetime.

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From lost youth to powerful leader, Corey Marionneaux shares how a mentor’s unwavering belief turned his life around—and how he’s now building a foundation to uplift Black men and communities. Inspired by Michael Johnson’s humble, healing guidance, Marionneaux transformed pain into purpose, launching the Black Men Coalition Foundation in 2022 to tackle education, housing, and economic justice. Johnson didn’t just mentor him—he helped secure the foundation’s home, became his closest friend, and taught him what it truly means to be a man. Marionneaux’s mission? Give back without expectation, honoring the selfless love that saved him. ...

Madison mourns the loss of Anita Howard, beloved “Mother of the Community,” who died at 60 after a lifetime of fighting gun violence and uplifting families. Her funeral drew hundreds to Mount Zion Baptist Church, and since her passing, neighbors honored her with balloon releases and barbecues. Just a week before, the city also lost Michael Johnson, CEO of the Boys and Girls Club — a double blow that has left the community reeling. Howard’s legacy of compassion and resilience continues to inspire those she touched.

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The Madison Night Mares’ first fireworks show got postponed after park rangers spotted a bald eagle nest dangerously close to the ballpark — with baby eagles still nesting and not ready to fly. The team, who collaborate yearly with park officials to avoid disturbing the birds, hopes the eaglets will be ready soon. Fireworks are still on for July 3rd and 4th — fingers crossed!

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The Packers’ skill-position group sits at a stagnant 17 in ESPN’s rankings—same spot for three years—thanks to chronic injuries that have kept key players like Christian Watson, Jayden Reed, and Tucker Kraft from playing together consistently. Despite flashes of brilliance when healthy—averaging 0.14 EPA per play—their potential remains unrealized. If they stay healthy this season, especially with rookies Matthew Golden and Savion Williams stepping up, they could become the league’s top one-through-five unit. But with a brutal schedule and division rivals like the 1 Lions and 8 Vikings, their playoff hopes hinge entirely on durability and cohesion.

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Francesca Hong, Democratic gubernatorial candidate, has cleared her financial slate after settling a $30,000 debt with Capital One — a lawsuit now officially dismissed. The debt stemmed from a restaurant venture she called an “honest financial mistake,” and she’s now fully paid. With this hurdle removed, her campaign can refocus on her run for governor, as opponents lose a key talking point. Hong, currently serving in the state Assembly, is now poised to move forward with renewed momentum.

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The final cans of Schlitz beer are here — a nostalgic revival brewed by Wisconsin Brewing Company with Pabst’s help, led by brewmaster Kirby Nelson who painstakingly recreated the classic post-WWII flavor. Tasting like a smooth, malty chill, it’s already flying off shelves nationwide, with online orders sold out. Longtime Schlitz fans are sharing memories, and Nelson admits he was nervous — but proud — after the final taste test. Celebrate the last sip this Saturday at Wisconsin Brewing’s party, or catch the final cans at Old World Wisconsin on July 4th.

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A 15-year-old was struck by gunfire yesterday afternoon on Spring Dreams Lane—stable but shaken. Police say everyone involved knew each other, turning this into a deeply personal, not random, incident. The investigation is still active as authorities dig into how this accidental shooting unfolded. With youth at the center, the community holds its breath for answers and recovery. Madison PD remains tight-lipped beyond the basics, but we’re watching closely for updates.

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This weekend’s weather is a sweet cooldown—temps in the 70s to low 80s, mild nights in the 50s to 60s—before the real heat kicks in. Sunday brings warmer, stickier air with highs in the mid-80s and rising dewpoints, plus scattered storms that could be strong. But don’t let the calm fool you: next week’s forecast is a major heat warning. Daily storms may offer brief relief, but the overall pattern is hot, humid, and dangerous for those without AC or easy access to water. Enjoy the last of the comfort—summer’s serious heat is just g...

A federal jury just convicted 44-year-old Johnathan Conley in Madison, Wisconsin, on drug trafficking charges involving meth and fentanyl. After a four-day trial, the jury deliberated just over six hours before delivering the guilty verdict, backed by DNA evidence found on drug baggies at his home and in a vehicle. Conley now faces a minimum 10-year federal sentence, possibly life, with sentencing set for September 9th — a stark warning about the severe consequences of trafficking these deadly substances.

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Madison Store Break-In Under Investigation

Dane County and Madison are teaming up to fund a new men’s homeless shelter on Bartillon Drive, pouring in $1.8 million and $1.6 million respectively to support daily operations after months of delays. The shelter, already open, offers beds, meals, and critical resources to help men transition to permanent housing — tackling a growing crisis as more people face eviction and lack safe places to stay. While funding is secured, officials are still hashing out outreach strategies, aiming for a seamless city-county partnership to ensure the shelter’s success and long-term impact.

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A compassionate act turned tragic when 72-year-old Robert Marti drowned while attempting to rescue an injured eagle from Lake Petenwell. Despite warnings, he returned to the lake alone, without a life jacket, and was later found entangled in underwater debris. His body was recovered near the boat launch, and investigators believe his heroic effort ended in fatal accident — a sobering reminder that even well-intentioned deeds can have devastating consequences.

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Step back in time across Wisconsin as we explore the state’s rich historical landmarks—from the oldest continuously funded historical society in the nation to the first building on the UW-Madison campus, North Hall, and the iconic Wisconsin Union with its legendary Terrace and Theater. Plus, this weekend’s must-dos: the Spring Green Arts and Crafts Fair and the Albany Lions Club Car Show, with fireworks and fun ahead next week at the “Fire on the River” Fourth of July celebration.

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