The Door County YMCA is entering the final stretch of its annual fundraising campaign as the organization approaches the end of its fiscal year on May 31, while also preparing to celebrate a global milestone and nearly four decades of local service.

The annual campaign, which helps fund scholarships and free community programs, supports initiatives like the YMCA’s Membership for All program, ensuring access regardless of income.

“Our mission is to serve as many people as we can,” said CEO Tonya Felhofer. “We want to remove every barrier in front of them so they can access the Y and enjoy the services we provide. It enriches those in the community as well as those of us who serve.”

“This campaign is about more than just a number, it’s about people,” said Brett Cleveland, mission advancement executive at the Sturgeon Bay YMCA. “Each donation represents a commitment to making wellness, belonging and community accessible to everyone in Door County.”

This year’s campaign coincides with the 175th anniversary of the global YMCA movement, founded in 1844 and now serving millions worldwide. Felhofer said the milestone highlights the organization’s enduring mission of strengthening communities.

 “We are in our final six to eight weeks of the campaign and looking to raise $35,000 to reach our $591,000 goal,” Felhofer said. “Ending with the celebration in Egg Harbor for our anniversary is fitting.”

Since opening in 1986, the Door County YMCA has expanded programs focused on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, serving thousands each year.

For more information or to make a donation, please visit the Door County YMCA website.

Less than a month after tickets went on sale, a once-in-a-lifetime experience aboard a Great Lakes freighter is close to setting sail. Fewer than 40 of the $150-$200 raffle tickets remain for the cruise, with the drawing approaching quickly on April 30.

The Noon Rotary Club of Sturgeon Bay is partnering with Interlake Steamship Co. to raffle off a spot for up to six guests on a Great Lakes freighter to support the club’s local service projects and community initiatives throughout Door County.

Departing from either Duluth, Minnesota, or Marquette, Michigan, the 3 1/2- to 5-day cruise takes passengers behind the scenes of commercial shipping operations while offering private stateroom accommodations, views of the Great Lakes, and cuisine unique to a freighter experience. Rotary Club member Amy Kohnle said last month that participants will be supporting Rotary’s work in the community while enjoying an authentic experience.

Participants must be 18 or older, have a valid passport, and be flexible with their scheduling during the 2026 shipping season.

The Noon Rotary Club of Sturgeon Bay has held nautical-themed spring fundraisers for years, dating back to when the organization hosted shipyard tours.

Roadwork is underway on several streets in Sturgeon Bay, prompting closures and detours for local traffic.

Martell Construction Inc. has begun concrete work along East Vine Street between South Oxford Avenue and Shorecrest Road. The project includes spot removal and replacement of curb and gutter. East Vine Street is closed at South Oxford Avenue, with access limited to local traffic from Shorecrest Road. A detour route is in place using Nautical Drive and Shorecrest Road.

Additional work is taking place on South Ridgeway Avenue between East Compass Street and East Compass Place, as well as on East Compass Street and East Compass Place between South Ridgeway Avenue and South Ridgeway Drive. Those streets are also posted as closed to through traffic, with access limited to local residents.

Paving is expected to take place on all segments in June.

Also, beginning Monday, April 20, at 7 a.m., Huron Street between Fifth Avenue and Seventh Avenue will be closed for utility and street reconstruction. The project includes full replacement of water and sanitary sewer infrastructure, as well as curb, sidewalk and street pavement. Work is expected to continue for approximately three months.

You are encouraged to avoid the affected areas when possible and to use caution near construction zones.

For those of us who thrive on outdoor activities, winter presents some definite challenges, but those are all behind us now as we pull out our hiking boots, lace up our running shoes, pump up the bike tires, and prep those kayaks and canoes. One of our greatest recreational resources—and probably the best-kept secret in our county—is the Ahnapee Trail system. The many miles of improved surface (34 miles of it in Kewaunee County alone) span the distances between our cities and villages and serve as a great way to enjoy the beauty around us while improving our personal fitness.

During the winter months, I have been relegated to running alongside the roads and highways, so I am very grateful when the time comes to transition back to “Running the Ahnapee.” Unlike most resources in this day and age, this trail system is free to use, courtesy of the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. The trail is maintained by our own Kewaunee County Parks and Recreation Department, which removes debris, trims the foliage, and even grades the surface when needed. However, to preserve this amazing resource, we must all share the responsibility of adhering to some very basic rules and guidelines regarding its use.

For those who bring their dogs along for a healthy walk, please be aware that you must keep your dog on a leash while on the trail. This prevents potential issues when meeting other walkers or pets, as well as situations where your dog may decide to chase the many species of wildlife that also share this ecosystem. Also, please make sure you pick up after your pet. It’s just common sense.

While most know that the use of motorized vehicles is prohibited on the trail, it also serves as part of the countywide snowmobile trail system during the winter months, and we are fortunate to have the many clubs that prepare and maintain those trails—not just for snowmobilers, but also for snowshoers and cross-country skiers.

Because the Ahnapee has been preserved for “silent sports,” another group of users includes equestrians. While horseback riding is authorized on the trail, please be aware that this use is limited to April 15 through Nov. 15. Even so, please check the condition of the trail to verify that it is dry and stable enough to prevent damage to the surface. Also, just as with dog owners, you are responsible for picking up after your animal, even if the piles may be bigger. Dodging horse piles is probably one of my biggest issues when running the trail, and I would prefer not to issue a citation for something that is simply a matter of consideration.

As with any community resource, it takes a group of dedicated volunteers to make it possible. When it comes to the Ahnapee Trail, we are fortunate to have the “Friends of the Ahnapee State Trail” serve as stewards and advocates for the preservation and promotion of this wonderful resource. For more information on how you can assist this organization, please visit www.ahnapeestatetrail.com or contact the Kewaunee County Parks and Recreation Department at (920) 388-0444.

The race for the Wisconsin State Senate seat currently held by Andre Jacque added a new name Thursday when Mark Becker announced his decision to run as an independent. The announcement comes after previously announced Democratic candidate Sean Grorich dropped his bid.

As the former chairperson of the Brown County Republican Party, a former Brown County supervisor, and the host of his own radio show in Green Bay, Becker is no stranger to politics in northeast Wisconsin. Following the election of President Donald Trump in 2016, Becker left the Republican Party because of disagreements with the direction it was going. He admits to being politically homeless but adds that it is exciting to be at the cusp of change.

Potentially becoming a state senator was not on the radar for Becker, but he says anything he has done in politics has been to help people.

Becker joins a race that includes Door County Farm for Vets founder Jacob VandenPlas, who previously announced his candidacy. Former candidate Grorich has already endorsed Becker. Jacque has not yet announced whether he will seek another term.

A new initiative aimed at creating a hands-on learning space for children and families is gaining momentum in Door County, as organizers officially introduced plans for the Children’s Museum of Door County.

The project, still in its early planning stages, is envisioned as an interactive environment where children can explore, imagine and learn through play while fostering stronger family connections. 

Founder and Executive Director Amanda Huehns says the museum will be built with a focus on community involvement and long-term impact for local families.

“What started as a dream is now becoming something real,” Huehns said. “We believe Door County deserves a space where kids can explore, imagine and learn through play, and where families can slow down and spend meaningful time together.”

Huehns emphasized that the project is currently in its "brainstorming, planning and building phase,” making community support critical to its development.

“This all has happened very organically,” Huehns added. “Let kids be kids as long as possible, the world is waiting for them.”

Huehns encourages the community to stay tuned for updates, "Please spread the word, it's not a rumor anymore. We are going through with it and we hope the community can get behind us and support the museum." 

Supporters can follow the organization’s social media pages for updates and information.

You can support the project by donating through the United Way of Door County: in person, online, or by mailing a check with “Children’s Museum” noted in the memo line.

The Children’s Museum of Door County is tentatively planning to open later this year in Sturgeon Bay. Updates on the museum’s progress will be shared as development continues.  

Just over a week after voters cast ballots in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race, a candidate has entered the 2027 contest.

Clark County Judge Lyndsey Boon Brunette announced Thursday that she will run for the state’s highest court, seeking to replace retiring Justice Annette Ziegler. Ziegler said in March that she would not seek another term.

Before becoming a judge, Brunette was elected Clark County district attorney as a Democrat, according to Wisconsin Public Radio.

Her announcement follows last week’s spring election, in which Chris Taylor defeated Maria Lazar to replace outgoing Justice Rebecca Bradley.

Although Wisconsin Supreme Court races are nonpartisan, candidates backed by conservatives have lost five of the past six elections. The exception was Justice Brian Hagedorn’s win over Judge Lisa Neubauer. That trend has shifted the court toward a liberal-leaning majority.

Brunette is expected to appear on the April 6, 2027 spring general election ballot.

Door County’s room tax continues to serve as a key funding source for tourism promotion, local municipalities and community development, according to Destination Door County.

The county’s room tax rate is 8%, applied to short-term lodging stays of less than 30 days. Under Wisconsin law, at least 70% of the revenue must go to a designated tourism entity for promotion and development, while the remaining 30% returns to the municipality where the tax is collected for unrestricted use.

In 2025, room tax collections totaled $8.68 million. About $6.08 million went to Destination Door County, while municipalities received $2.6 million.

“This structure ensures that visitors are helping fund the very experiences and infrastructure they come here to enjoy,” said Jon Jarosh interim President and CEO of Destination Door County. “It also provides meaningful financial support to our local communities.”

Municipalities have broad discretion in how they spend their share, often using the funds for emergency services, infrastructure improvements, parks and other public needs.

Door County room tax increased significantly from 2007 to 2025, with room tax totals rising from about $2 million to over $8.6 million last year. This means municipalities went from receiving approximately $600,000 to more than $2.6 million annually since the tax was initiated.

Destination Door County also reinvests funds through additional programs, including a municipal reimbursement initiative that provided approximately $376,000 in recent years for community improvement projects. The organization’s Community Investment Fund continues to expand, awarding more than $370,000 in its latest 2025 grant cycle and surpassing $3.1 million in total investments across 59 projects since the program launched in 2023.

“Our goal is to reinvest visitor dollars in ways that strengthen both the visitor experience and the quality of life for residents,” Jarosh said. “These programs allow us to support projects that have long-term benefits for the entire county.”

Jarosh says the room tax helps sustain Door County’s tourism-based economy by supporting jobs, generating tax revenue and maintaining amenities enjoyed by both visitors and residents. State law currently limits tourism funding mechanisms to lodging taxes, with no comparable tax applied to other tourism-related sectors.

It may be time to stock up on stamps to save a few bucks when sending bills and birthday cards.

The U.S. Postal Service has requested a rate increase of approximately 4.8% across the board for its mailing services. The price of a domestic first-class letter stamp would rise 4 cents to 82 cents, while postcard stamps would increase to 65 cents. International stamps would go up 5 cents to $1.75.

Last month, Postmaster General David Steiner proposed raising the price of a first-class stamp from 78 cents to between 90 and 95 cents.

If approved, it would mark the eighth price increase for first-class stamps in the past five years. The price was 55 cents in August 2021 before rising to 58 cents. Since then, stamp prices have increased by 2 to 3 cents at a time, often twice a year.

According to CBS News, Steiner said the increase could help address some of the agency’s financial challenges, as it is currently running a $9 billion deficit. The Postal Regulatory Commission reports that mail volume has declined by more than 100 billion pieces since 2006, while efficiency has also decreased.

Steiner told a congressional panel the USPS could run out of cash within 12 months if it cannot sell more products, cut additional costs and raise prices.

If approved by the Postal Regulatory Commission, the price changes would take effect in July. Even with the increase, U.S. stamp prices would remain lower than those in countries such as Canada, Brazil, Italy and the United Kingdom.

The students have put in the work — now they need your help to get to Kansas City for the Destination Imagination Global Finals next month.

Six teams from Sevastopol, three from Algoma and one from Holy Rosary qualified for the international competition after placing in the top three at the 2026 Wisconsin Destination Imagination (WIDI) Affiliate Tournament held in Sun Prairie last weekend.

Destination Imagination allows students to complete challenges based on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts and mathematics). The tradition is strong at both Sevastopol and Algoma, with several Global Finals appearances between them over the years, including two wins for Sevastopol’s Ultimate Miners and Da’ Magix squads in 2023.

Sevastopol DI coordinator Annie Rabach has been a strong supporter of the program for 19 years. She points to strong community support and the use of classrooms at Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Institute as key reasons for their success, along with the high standards set for students and volunteers alike.

Now that their spots are secured for Global Finals, the Destination Imagination teams at Sevastopol and Algoma must raise funds to get students, volunteers and equipment to Kansas City.

Sevastopol is holding its Road to Globals Showcase on Sunday, beginning at noon, with a brat, burger and hot dog fry. State champion performances by The Cheesy Chips, MHGR, Penguins with Pizzazz, Lama/Bellmore, The DI-pers and The Ultimate Ending will begin at 1 p.m. at Sevastopol School.

To support its Global Finals–qualifying teams — Super Kids (third place), Fantastic Five (second place) and Four Horse Them (first place) — Algoma Destination Imagination will host donkey basketball on April 29 at 7 p.m. at Algoma High School.

Both schools also hold additional fundraisers throughout the year to support their programs. 

Holy Rosary's The HRS Rockets and Holy Rollers also qualified for Global Finals with a third-place finish. They HRS Rockets will compete at Global Finals. They will host a spaghetti dinner and bake sale on a date to be determined.

Picture from Sevastopol Destination Imagination Facebook Page

In times of need, when struggling with important medical decisions, you can ask for help from someone who appeals to a higher power. Hospital chaplains like Door County Medical Center’s Catherine Heimbecher and John Hauser not only provide spiritual guidance but also help facilitate the conversations people need to have before unpredictable illnesses and injuries occur.

According to a 2025 Harris Poll, only 5% of Americans have an advance care plan in place, and 50% are unfamiliar with the process. Advance care plans outline what should happen if you become incapacitated due to a sudden illness or injury. These plans can include a living will, a durable power of attorney for health care, and other specialized orders such as do-not-resuscitate or do-not-hospitalize directives.

Heimbecher understands that making such decisions can be difficult, especially if you do not know the wishes of your loved ones.

She encourages people to talk with Door County Medical Center staff or personnel at their local health care provider to begin the process of completing an advance care plan to have on file. April 16 is National Healthcare Decisions Day, serving as a reminder for families to discuss advance care plans.

You could see a rematch on your ballot this November for the 1st District Assembly seat after Renee Paplham announced her run for the office currently held by state Rep. Joel Kitchens. Paplham, a Kewaunee Democrat, and Kitchens, a Sturgeon Bay Republican, both made their announcements Tuesday afternoon, within hours of each other, nearly two years after the duo faced off in the 2024 election. It was Paplham’s first time as a candidate, and she hopes to take some of the lessons she learned from that experience into her campaign this year.

Paplham, a mediator with the Mediation Center of Green Bay, believes the district is ready for a change and thinks it goes well beyond the “D” and “R” that might be next to someone’s name.

Paplham and Kitchens are the first two candidates to announce their intentions to run for the 1st District Assembly seat, which has been under Republican control since 1995. A Democrat has not held the seat since the retirement of Luxemburg’s Lary Swoboda in 1994 after serving in the Wisconsin Assembly for more than 20 years.

Over 20 residents received at least one write-in vote for Door County Board Supervisory District 19, but only one will fill the seat when supervisors hold their first meeting since the April 7 election later this month.

Preston Pluff won the seat with 23 votes, while Matthew Meacham garnered the second-most write-ins with 11 votes. No one else received more than two votes. The seat was one of two decided on Election Day by write-in votes. They will meet next on April 21.

The Southern Door School District announced earlier this week that registered write-in candidate Luke Spude and Kristin Tassoul will join incumbent President Kim Starr on the Southern Door School Board. They will meet next on April 20.

Kewaunee County also had a trio of races that required write-in candidates to fill open seats. Brandi Kolross garnered 16 votes as a registered write-in candidate for the Village of Casco trustee position, while Mike Bories (District 2) and Aaron Drouse (District 4) won seats on the Kewaunee City Council as registered write-in candidates.

A new U.S. Navy contract awarded to Fincantieri Marine Group is expected to bring economic ripple effects across northeast Wisconsin, including Door and Kewaunee counties, as the military reshapes its shipbuilding strategy following the cancellation of a major frigate program.

The Navy recently scrapped its Constellation-class guided-missile frigate program after delays, rising costs and design changes reduced commonality with its original European-based design. The move reflected broader challenges in naval shipbuilding, where programs such as the Zumwalt-class destroyers and Littoral Combat Ships have also faced cutbacks and cost overruns.

Amid that shift, the Navy is moving forward with other priorities, including a $30 million contract to Fincantieri Marinette Marine to begin work on the first four Medium Landing Ship vessels. The funding supports long-lead materials and production readiness, with construction potentially starting in late 2026.

The Landing Ship Medium program is designed to enhance U.S. Marine Corps mobility and logistics in contested environments and is considered a key element of future naval operations.

Company officials say the contract underscores confidence in the region’s shipbuilding capacity. Over the past decade, Fincantieri has invested nearly $800 million in its U.S. shipyards, including facilities in Marinette and Sturgeon Bay, to expand production and modernize infrastructure.

Local leaders say the investment carries broader implications.

“Looking at what we're getting, it is definetely exciting after some of the bad news that came forward on the Fedral change of direction last year. This is big news for our region in both Marinette and Sturgeon Bay, and a strong signal for the future of American shipbuilding,” said Spencer Gustafson, a District 4 alderman. “The future will start here in Sturgeon Bay and in Marinette. This investment is about more than ships, it’s about jobs, workforce development and strengthening our national defense capabilities.”

Gustafson said the project highlights the importance of skilled trades across the Great Lakes region, including Door and Kewaunee counties, where many workers are tied to the maritime industry.

The Navy is expected to pursue a new frigate design as it works to avoid past procurement challenges while advancing future shipbuilding efforts.

Unemployment in Door and Kewaunee counties rose in January, reflecting typical seasonal patterns, while longer-term data shows relatively stable labor markets in both counties over the past five years.

According to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD), unemployment rates increased in all 72 counties in January 2026 compared with December, including Door and Kewaunee counties.

Door County’s unemployment rate was about 3.6% in December 2025, up from lower levels in the fall months, continuing a winter trend seen annually. State data shows similar increases statewide, with Wisconsin’s unemployment rate at 3.3% in January, still below the national rate.

Over the past five years, unemployment in Door County has generally remained low, hovering near or below 4% outside of seasonal spikes. That is well below the county’s long-term historical average of more than 6%, indicating a stronger labor market in recent years.

Kewaunee County has followed similar patterns, with modest unemployment rates that fluctuate month to month but remain relatively low overall, consistent with broader regional and statewide trends.

Door County’s economy is heavily tied to tourism, hospitality and seasonal businesses, leading to lower unemployment in summer and higher rates in winter months when jobs decline.

Statewide, labor force changes, job availability and broader economic conditions also influence local figures. While unemployment remains low, Wisconsin has seen slight increases in recent months and some declines in total employment over the past year.

Overall, the data shows that while monthly unemployment can vary significantly, especially in seasonal economies, the long-term trend in both counties points to a relatively stable and resilient workforce.

The Southern Door School District has certified the results of the April 7 school board election, with three candidates elected to serve on the Board of Education.

According to results finalized April 13, incumbent board president Kim M. Starr was re-elected with 2,281 votes. Registered write-in candidate Luke Spude received 779 votes, followed by Kristin Tassoul with 612 votes. The race included multiple registered and write-in candidates who collectively drew more than 2,500 votes.

Spude and Tassoul have accepted their positions and will join Starr in taking the oath of office at the board’s April 20 meeting.

The election came the same day district voters rejected an operational referendum that would have allowed the district to exceed state revenue limits by $3.15 million annually for three years. The measure failed, leaving officials to address a potential funding gap as the current referendum expires in June 2026.

Officials thanked voters and the Board of Canvassers for completing the certification process and said the newly elected board will help guide the district through upcoming financial and operational decisions.

The Door County YMCA will celebrate two milestones next month, marking 175 years of the global YMCA movement and nearly four decades of service in Door County with a community event on Thursday, May 7 from 5:30 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. at the Kress Pavilion.

The anniversary celebration will recognize more than 39 years of local programming focused on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility. Since opening in the mid-1980s, the organization has expanded its reach across Door County, offering services that support residents of all ages.

Tonya Felhofer, Door County YMCA CEO, said the anniversary reflects both the organization’s history and its ongoing role in the community.

“The YMCA’s impact in Door County is measured in the lives it has touched over generations,” Felhofer said. “From children learning to swim to adults regaining strength and confidence, the Y continues to be a place where people find support, connection and opportunity.”

Felhofer said the celebration is also a chance to recognize the community partnerships that have sustained the organization’s growth.  “May 31 marks the end of our fiscal year, we are looking to really push our donation drive through the anniversary event,” said Felhofer.  Funds donated all go to support programming at both Door County YMCA campuses.

“This milestone is about honoring the volunteers, donors and staff who have helped build something lasting,” she said. “We are excited to celebrate with the community and look ahead to the future together.”

The May 7 event will bring together members, donors, volunteers and community partners to reflect on the YMCA’s legacy and future.

Registration is available by contacting the YMCA Welcome Center or visiting the Door County YMCA website.

You can listen to the entire interview on this week’s Y-Wednesday podcast here.

United Way of Door County will host its fourth annual countywide Jeep-themed fundraiser next month aimed at supporting local programs.

The event, “Jeep the Door Scavenger Hunt,” is scheduled for Saturday, May 2, and will bring together Jeep enthusiasts for a daylong driving tour across Door County. You’ll travel scenic routes while completing team-based missions that include GPS navigation, photo challenges and trivia.

The event will highlight the peninsula’s natural landscapes and local businesses while raising funds for community services.

“This is our fourth Jeep Run, but our first with a scavenger hunt,” said Amy Kohnle, Executive Director of United Way Door County. “This gives everybody the opportunity to join in, they can pick the environmental and landscape attractions along with the bar and restaurant component.”

The event will begin at Door County Fire Company, where doors open at 9:30 a.m., followed by a driver meeting at 10:30 a.m. “There will be tech support for the app on-site for those who may have trouble with it,” added Kohnle.  

Activities will continue throughout the day and conclude with a round-up celebration back at Door Co. Fire Company featuring food, raffles, prizes and social beverage time. “We ask that the runners meet back there at 6 PM, there will even be a DJ and pizza for the return,” said Kohnle.

Proceeds from the fundraiser will support the organization’s efforts to improve health, education and financial stability across Door County, including programs focused on mental health, housing stability and early childhood development.

Registration information is available through United Way of Door County website.

Door County Republican Party Chair Stephanie Soucek hopes the group’s Lincoln Day Dinner later this month will serve as a turning point following Election Night disappointment earlier this month.

Republican-backed Judge Maria Lazar lost her bid to replace retiring Justice Rebecca Bradley on the Wisconsin Supreme Court last Tuesday, falling to Judge Chris Taylor by nearly 20 percentage points. Although Wisconsin Supreme Court justice is a nonpartisan position, conservative-backed candidates have lost five of the past six elections, with Justice Brian Hagedorn’s victory over Judge Lisa Neubauer the exception.

Soucek said state Republicans have fared better in recent fall partisan elections and hopes candidates appearing on the November ballot will reverse that trend.

The Door County Republican Party is hoping its Lincoln Day Dinner lineup — including state Republican Party Chair Brian Schimming, U.S. Rep. Tony Wied, state Rep. Joel Kitchens, state Sen. André Jacque and other candidates running for Door County sheriff and state offices — will help energize the base ahead of the August primary and November general election.

More details on Lincoln Day Dinner events in Door and Kewaunee counties are available below.

State Rep. Joel Kitchens announced his re-election campaign on Tuesday afternoon, highlighting recent legislative work and strong voter support across Door and Kewaunee counties.

Kitchens, who represent Wisconsin’s 1st Assembly District covering Door and Kewaunee counties and portions of Brown County, said he is grateful for continued support from constituents and is focused on advancing policies that benefit local families, farmers and businesses.

In the November 2024 general election, Kitchens secured another term with about 62% of the vote districtwide, including 56.7% of the vote in Door County, reflecting consistent backing in the region. That significance is not lost on Kitchens as he seeks a seventh term.

During the current legislative session, Kitchens led efforts to limit cellphone use in classrooms and supported implementation of the Right-to-Read Act, which emphasizes phonics-based literacy instruction. He also backed tax cuts for retirees, eliminated taxes on natural gas and electricity, and supported increased funding for special education.

Kitchens said he will continue working to direct more funding into classrooms while easing the tax burden on residents in Door and Kewaunee counties.

Kitchens will likely face Democratic challenger Renee Paplham, who also announced her candidacy on Tuesday afternoon. He defeated Paplham in her first general election in 2024.

Your community’s youngest learners and the teachers who help mold their minds are being celebrated this week as part of a national observance. Running through April 17, the Week of the Young Child highlights the importance of quality early childhood education through daily, themed, hands-on activities. Research shows that 90% of brain development occurs before the age of 5, making high-quality early childhood education crucial to the start of a young person’s life.

Karen Corekin-DeLaMer, of Northern Door Children’s Center in Sister Bay, says it is why they and other early childhood education centers invest significant resources into their work, especially when it comes to the teachers who will be in the classroom with students.

Quality early childhood education is also credited with improving school readiness, increasing academic achievement and enhancing social skills. Early childhood centers will celebrate the Week of the Young Child with a variety of activities, with Northern Door Children’s Center focusing on children’s authors such as Eric Carle, Laura Numeroff and Mo Willems.

With the tax deadline of April 15 just hours away, you can still file your paperwork while avoiding some costly penalties. According to the IRS, the penalty for filing federal taxes late — if you owe money — is usually 5% of the unpaid taxes for each month, or part of a month, a return is late, capped at 25% of the total unpaid tax.

The state of Wisconsin adds a $50 late-filing fee and charges interest of 1.5% per month (18% per year) if you are tardy with your paperwork. If you still need to file, you do have some options.

If you are filing online, you can go right up until the last possible moment if you are confident there are no errors. If your return is rejected, the Wisconsin Department of Revenue gives you five days to correct errors and resubmit it.

It is trickier if you planned on mailing your return. A change in U.S. Postal Service policy means mail is postmarked only after delivery to a processing facility, which means it may not be stamped until days after you dropped it in a mailbox. For some USPS customers, that means the deadline to file was nearly a week ago.

According to the Taxpayer Advocate Service, you can still meet the deadline if you use certified mail or take your return to the county and request a free postage validation imprint. April 15 is also the deadline to request an automatic extension, which would give you until October to complete your filing.

According to financial company IPX1031, approximately 22% of Americans wait until the last minute to file their taxes, citing the process’s complexity, lack of awareness and the expectation of no refund as reasons for delaying.

You can find more resources for your tax filing below:

Internal Revenue Service

Wisconsin Department of Revenue

The fight over the future of the Alpine Resort has spilled into the 2026 season, with the property’s landlord, Sagorac Enterprises, and its operator exchanging barbs.

Last week, Sagorac Enterprises issued a press release formally evicting Alpine Resort operator Randy Abrahams and his affiliated entities over lease violations and unpaid rent. According to a story published April 10 in the Peninsula Pulse, Sagorac Enterprises points to missed rent payments and a failure to meet other obligations — such as taxes, utilities and other contractual requirements — as grounds for eviction.

“We feel terrible for any affected potential third parties,” Sagorac said in a statement, “but it was patently unreasonable for the tenant and his team to expect that they could continue to occupy the shorefront parcel and to continue to make promises they couldn’t keep to their third-party guests without paying rent and while being in default on numerous other aspects of the lease.”

The Alpine Resort issued its own statement Saturday, saying it has terminated its ongoing negotiations with Sagorac Enterprises and had no knowledge of the issue until its access was blocked. The Alpine Resort said it had been negotiating the lease and repurchase of the waterfront parcels, blaming recent delays on sudden changes to the agreement.

The resort’s operators are now working to contact people who had planned to use the Alpine Resort for events and other purposes during the 2026 season. Meanwhile, Sagorac Enterprises said the site will remain closed until further notice.

The Alpine Resort property has been a source of disagreement for well over a year, when the idea of demolishing parts of the campus was first floated. Last November, 10 Egg Harbor residents filed a restraining order against the Village of Egg Harbor, the Zoning Board of Appeals and Sagorac Enterprises in an effort to stop the demolition of the Alpine Resort’s lodge building.

Last summer, the Egg Harbor Fire Department declared the building unsafe for occupancy at the beginning of the season but eventually allowed a portion of it to reopen for restaurant operations after some concerns were addressed.

If you’ve enjoyed using “No Mow May” as a way to justify not keeping up with your yard, that excuse may soon be blowing away. Many communities are ditching “No Mow May” for a different strategy that keeps the purpose in place without the scraggly grass.

“Protect Our Pollinators” programs around the country encourage community members to plant native species in their yards as a way to create additional habitat for bees, butterflies, moths and other insects that support approximately 35% of the world’s crops through pollination.

Earlier this month, the Village of Egg Harbor became one of the latest communities to make the switch in an effort to create longer-lasting pollinator habitats, as opposed to offering a monthly reprieve from yard work. Door County Land Trust Executive Director Emily Wood says there are other reasons to plant native species in your yard.

There will be opportunities throughout the county to purchase or pick up free native plants to give your lawn and garden a more local feel. The Door County Land Trust is partnering with the Climate Change Coalition of Door County for one of those opportunities on May 9.