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Timmers Resort, a beloved lakeside spot, has been sold for $5M to Mike Darrow, COO of Russ Darrow Automotive Group. Darrow plans to preserve the resorts history and traditions, with local restaurateur Tony Koebel managing the restaurant. The resort temporarily closed in December and is set to reopen in March, marking a new chapter while honoring its past.

Miller Lite Free Rides returns for New Years Eve, marking its 35th anniversary and nearing 10 million rides nationwide. This community-focused initiative, in partnership with Milwaukee County Transit System, offers free public transportation to ensure safe celebrations. Plan your journey using the UMO app or Milwaukee County Transit System website for a stress-free New Years Eve.

Outpost Natural Foods Cooperative is constructing a state-of-the-art, nearly nine-thousand-square-foot commercial kitchen to meet the surging demand for their products. This $3.5 million project, expected to open in 2026, will transform unused space into a dedicated food production hub, focusing solely on prepared foods and bakery production. The new kitchen will feature energy-efficient appliances, LED lighting, and a modern refrigeration system, while employing twenty-seven current staff members and creating more jobs in 2027.

Frozen Water Signal Chat Emerges in Judge Dugan Trial: A high-profile trial against Milwaukee County Judge Hannah Dugan has brought an encrypted messaging app, Signal, into the spotlight. Federal agents involved in an immigrant arrest used a Signal chat named frozen water, which was revealed during the trial. The chats unusual name and its connection to ICE were questioned, but agent Lucker stated she was not part of it. Another witness testified that the messages did not pertain to Judge Dugans actions. The trial continues to examine the circumstances and communication methods.

Wisconsin Senate Minority Leader Dianne Hesselbein expresses hope for increased bipartisan cooperation in the upcoming legislative session, focusing on affordability and federal policy impacts. Despite some progress, she laments the lack of cross-party work. Hesselbein highlights three key Democratic bills, including free school meals and lower prescription drug costs, which Republicans have not yet considered. She remains optimistic about post-holiday reconsideration and looks forward to the 2026 elections, aiming for a majority and more transparent legislative sessions.

Powerball Jackpot Soars to $1.25 Billion, Second Largest of 2025 The Powerball jackpot has reached an astounding $1.25 billion, the second-largest prize of 2025. This massive sum is up for grabs in the upcoming drawing on December seventeenth, creating a buzz among hopeful players. The last drawing on December fourteenth resulted in no jackpot winner, but the Power Play multiplier was four times. If someone wins the current jackpot and chooses the cash option, they would take home an estimated $572.1 million before taxes. Playing Powerball in Wisconsin is simple: buy a $2 ticket from a licensed retailer, pick five white numbers and one red Powerball number, and consider the optional $1 Power Play feature. The next drawing is scheduled for Wednesday, December seventeenth, at 9:59 PM. Remember, tickets must be purchased by 9 PM on drawing days, and prizes must be claimed within 180 days.

President Trumps executive order on AI regulation faces pushback from Wisconsin, with Governor Evers and Attorney General Kaul warning of potential harm to children and families. The order aims to limit state AI laws, sparking concerns about safety and innovation. Evers urges Trump to stop efforts that could hinder states common-sense AI policies, while Kaul emphasizes the importance of AI innovation with safety considerations. Sandra Bradley from UW-Madison highlights the need for state and smaller business involvement in AI regulation to prevent power concentration.

The Milwaukee County Zoo has unveiled its new Ladish Company Foundation Rhino Care Center, a $22.6 million addition to its Adventure Africa project. The center, housing Zuri and Kianga, replaces an older rhino area and features improved facilities for staff and visitors. The new design allows for potential future use by other animals, showcasing the zoos adaptability.

Discovery World, with ATCs support, is revolutionizing STEM education in under-resourced neighborhoods. Their outreach programs, aligned with state and national standards, spark curiosity and encourage problem-solving. Discovery Worlds hands-on learning environment, including robotics, aquatic life exploration, and lab experiments, makes science accessible and fun. ATCs partnership aims to build a future workforce ready for STEM challenges, fostering early interest through annual events and employee volunteers. This collaboration is shaping Wisconsins next generation of innovators.