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Experience The Godfather like never before! The Milwaukee Symphony Orchestra presents a special screening of the iconic film, complete with live musical accompaniment. Conductor Ryan Tani will lead the orchestra as they perform Nino Rotas Oscar-nominated score. Tickets are available for January 2nd and 3rd at the Bradley Symphony Center. Enjoy a full evening with dining options and a memorable night out.

Two children in Wisconsin have tragically lost their lives to respiratory illnesses this season, prompting health officials to urge everyone six months and older to get vaccinated against both flu and COVID-19. Pregnant individuals, infants, and adults over 50 are also advised to receive the RSV vaccine. Simple daily actions like handwashing and mask-wearing can further prevent the spread of germs.

Milwaukee County Judge Sentences Charles Leggett to Life in Prison for Convenience Store Murder Charles Leggett, convicted of killing a convenience store cashier during a pizza argument, was sentenced to life in prison without parole. The incident, which occurred in October 2024, resulted in the death of 26-year-old Jamil Owies. Leggett was found guilty of first-degree reckless homicide and possession of a firearm by a felon after a three-day trial. Surveillance footage showed Leggett arguing with Owies before shooting him in the chest. Leggett admitted to the crime, stating it was over a pizza dispute.

Holiday travel in 2025 is projected to reach record highs, with over 122 million Americans traveling, a 3 million increase from 2024. Most will drive, but air travel is also expected to surpass pre-pandemic levels. The trend is a welcome boost for airports like Milwaukee Mitchell International. AAA advises driving before 11 AM or after 8 PM for lighter traffic, with minimal impact on Christmas Eve, Day, New Years Eve, and Day. Gas prices are also expected to be at their lowest since 2020, with an average of $2.79 per gallon on Christmas Day.

Wisconsins Attorney General, Josh Kaul, announced a $750,000 settlement with Menards, part of a multi-state consumer protection agreement. The settlement addresses concerns about unfair business practices, particularly regarding how Menards advertised discounts versus actual rebates. Menards will explore an online rebate process, offer a full year to redeem receipts, and create an online system for tracking rebate claims. The settlement reflects the Attorney Generals commitment to protecting consumers and ensuring fair and transparent pricing.

Corey, the creator of DNN, shares the mission of his global local news ticker in audio, now broadcasting in 140 cities across the U.S., Australia, Canada, and the UK. He addresses concerns about AI, emphasizing its role in delivering local news quickly and accurately, without replacing journalism. He encourages listeners to find their city on Apple Podcasts or Spotify and subscribe to support DNNs expansion to underserved communities.

Zechariah Mehler pleads guilty to vandalizing a controversial mural featuring a swastika on a Star of David, using axes, sledgehammers, and a crowbar. The mural, which replaced a Breonna Taylor depiction, had previously been vandalized with black paint. The incident sparked controversy, with local Jewish groups and the City of Milwaukees Common Council condemning its message as hurtful and divisive. Zechariahs co-defendant, Peter Mehler, awaits sentencing in March 2026.

Pope Leo the Fourteenth appoints Bishop Ronald Hicks as new Archbishop of New York, replacing Cardinal Timothy Dolan, who resigns due to age. Dolans tenure was marked by controversy, including abuse settlements and conservative views. Hicks, known for community engagement and Spanish fluency, takes over at a critical time for the Archdiocese.

Judge Hannah Dugans defense team presented four witnesses in a Milwaukee courtroom, arguing that her actions during a federal arrest attempt were driven by confusion and lack of clear guidance, not intent to obstruct justice. The witnesses included two fellow judges, a state public defender, and former Mayor Tom Barrett. Emails were introduced showing Dugan missed a virtual training session and that ICE arrests should not occur in public courthouse areas. The defense highlighted the stressful environment and lack of formal policies at the time. After resting its case, the defense filed a motion to dismiss, with closing statements expected soon.