Peter Hanson's jury trial begins Tuesday

December 3, 2013, 9:23 am

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OCONTO, WI (WTAQ) - One of two men accused of being responsible for the 1998 murder of Green Bay man Chad McLean goes on trial starting Tuesday.

Peter Hanson's trial is expected to last almost two weeks.

The other suspect, Charles Mlados, will go on trial February 14.

McLean disappeared near Abrams, and his body was found in the Pensaukee River one month later. Earlier this year, charges were filed following a John Doe investigation.

Hanson's wife Kathy told authorities that same night Hanson came out of the garage and she, "saw blood on Pete's hands," according to the criminal complaint. The complaint also indicates a friend of Hanson's told police Hanson said he and Chuck Mlados took McLean to a shed behind Hanson's home. The friend said, "Hanson admitted to shooting McLean and Mlados loaded the body into a truck." The two then, "took Chad to a bridge and dumped him in the river."

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Town of Eaton house fire overnight

December 3, 2013, 9:29 am

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TOWN OF EATON, WI (WTAQ) - No one was hurt after a house fire late Monday in Brown County.

Crews were called to a farmhouse on Town Line Road in the Town of Eaton around 11:45 p.m.

When they arrived, firefighters saw flames shooting out of the house.

No word on what caused the fire, or how much damage it caused.

Teacher's aide at Appleton high school accused of sexual assault

December 3, 2013, 9:32 am

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CHILTON, WI (WTAQ) - A teacher's aide at Appleton West High School is due in court Tuesday for an alleged sexual assault.

The woman is facing potential charges in Calumet County of sexual assault of a student by a school staff member.

 

Amberg fatal house fire started from kids playing with a lighter

December 3, 2013, 9:36 am

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AMBERG, WI (WTAQ) - Investigators say a fire that killed a two-year-girl started with kids playing with a lighter in the basement.

The blaze happened at a home along Highway 141 in the Town of Amberg Wednesday. Officials say a woman and her three daughters were in the home when the fire started. The mom and two of the girls were able to get out, but 2-year-old Lee-Ann Arendt died.

Autopsy results show the child died of smoke inhalation, according to the Marinette County Sheriff's Office.

Sheriff's officials say there was a delay in finding Le-Ann since it appeared she hid when the fire started.

According to the state fire marshal's office, the fire was an accident and there is no sign of foul play.

A benefit account for the family is set up at Bank North, which has offices in Crivitz, Amberg, Pembine, Wausaukee and at the Piggly Wiggly in Crivitz. Donations can also be mailed to Bank North Crivitz at PO Box 160, Crivitz, WI, 54114.

Suspect in Bellevue home invasion will stand trial

December 3, 2013, 10:43 am

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GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) - A man charged for his role in a Bellevue home invasion and armed robbery waived his preliminary hearing Tuesday and will stand trial.

An arraignment date is not yet available for David Vega.

Authorities say Vega and Luis Ortiz forced their way into a home on Van Lake Court. Police say the two men bound a couple with plastic ties, and poured water over their heads, demanding money. The suspects also allegedly pistol-whipped the couple, and threatened to shoot them. They then allegedly stole the couple's car.

In court Tuesday, Vega's bond was reduced to $10,000 cash, from $50,000.

A warrant has been issued for Ortiz's arrest.

VIDEO: Leo Frigo Bridge repairs are "on time, on budget", says DOT

December 3, 2013, 6:18 pm

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ASHWAUBENON, WI (WTAQ) - The state Department of Transportation says the repairs to the sagging Leo Frigo Bridge in Green Bay are on point.

During a news conference Tuesday, DOT officials say repairs are 17 percent complete. Project Manager Brian Roper says they still expect the bridge to reopen to traffic on January 17th.

"It's aggressive but it’s achievable and thus far the contractor, Zenith Tech, has done a really good job of working with their subs and keeping the project on schedule," said Roper.

The contractor, Zenith Tech, is working on replacing underground pilings on seven piers. Some of those piers corroded, including Pier 22 which dipped about two feet below its normal level back on September 24th.

Crews are working 20 to 25 strong, in 12-hour shifts, around the clock to finish the job on time. 

Meantime, the DOT says they expect to finish its investigation report on the bridge closure in January.

The total cost of the bridge project is expected to run about $15 million.

Top Michigan GOP official misses court appearance in Green Bay

December 4, 2013, 7:34 am

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GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) - A top Republican official in Michigan missed a court hearing on Wisconsin criminal charges Tuesday, because he was in jail in Michigan on other charges.  

51-year-old Doug Sedenquist of Escanaba was arrested last week. The Michigan GOP Central Committee member was later charged with extortion, using a computer in a crime, stalking, and possessing a drug similar to a controlled substance.  

Details of those crimes were not immediately available.  

Tuesday, Sedenquist was supposed to appear in Brown County Circuit Court, where he was charged in March for not obeying a police order to drop a gun when he apparently threatened to kill himself in his vehicle. He's charged in Brown County with failing to obey a police order, disorderly conduct, and making a threat with a computer. Online court records do not list a new court date in that case.  

The Detroit Free Press said all the charges are connected in some way to Sedenquist's estranged wife.

He was the vice chairman of the Delta County Republican Party in Escanaba, and he continues to hold his state committee post for now.  

His status could be discussed at the panel's next meeting December 14th. Sedenquist is also a talk radio personality.

(Story courtesy of Wheeler News Service)

Six recommendations from Outagamie Co. storm review panel

December 4, 2013, 10:54 am

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APPLETON, WI (WTAQ) - A report involving a panel of experts from Fox Valley Technical College was released Wednesday on the response to the devastating storms that struck Outagamie County in August. 

After three months of reviewing reports from the county, FVTC experts in the areas of emergency management, fire and law enforcement, as well as a meteorologist from outside the Fox Valley put together this report.

The panel released the following recommendations that the county might consider for the future:

1. Improve policies to meet national best practices.2. Ensure redundancy for critical elements of the communication system.3. Improve system maintenance and testing procedures.4. Develop response plans in advance for likely events.5. Provide public education on preparing for and responding to an emergency event.6. Obtain StormReady certification for the county.

"They did a thorough evaluation of all aspects of the existing policy, and it was their conclusion that policy was followed completely and thoroughly," says Outagamie County Executive Thomas Nelson. "We're currently reviewing those recommendations and I look forward to implementing them as fast as I can."

Back on August 7, six tornadoes tore through the Fox Valley from west of New London heading east into Manitowoc County.While no one died in the storms, hundreds of homes and businesses were damaged.

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Green Bay Metro fire crews get valuable training on Leo Frigo Bridge

December 4, 2013, 4:47 pm

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GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) - Crews with the Green Bay Metro Fire Department began three days of training on the Leo Frigo Bridge Wednesday.

"We're doing a training evolution to get water up to the bridge, the Leo Frigo bridge," said Green Bay Metro Fire Lt. Nick Craig.

The goal is to practice what to do in case of a major car crash or fire on the bridge.

Crews hooked up to a fire hydrant on Bylsby Avenue below the bridge. A fire engine supplied the ladder truck which has a pipe built into it. The ladder is raised 80 feet to the top of the bridge. Then a fire engine on the Leo Frigo hooks on to that.

"Basically it's like a portable fire hydrant," Craig told FOX 11.

Fire crews say the bridge exercise is unique to the area. They got the same training last year, but this year, it's not as much of a hazard.

"With no traffic, the bridge being closed, it's much safer for us to conduct this training," Craig said.

Craig says this training is necessary because placement of the ladder is critical. If it's off by a foot or two, it won't reach the bridge.

These procedures came as a result of the 53 car pileup on the bridge in 1990 that killed three people.

This training will continue next Monday and Tuesday.

(Partial reporting by FOX 11)

Temperatures falling as cold snap begins in Wisconsin

December 5, 2013, 7:39 am

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GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) - The much-talked about cold snap is just starting to take hold in parts of Wisconsin.  

At 6 a.m. Thursday, New Richmond was the state's cold spot at 6-above. Nearby Osceola had a wind chill factor of minus-11. Milwaukee and Racine were both basking in 31 degree warmth -- and those readings were expected to hold steady Thursday.  

The National Weather Service says a strong high pressure system will stick around at least into Sunday, with clear skies which make it easier for the cold temperatures to settle in.  

Below zero readings are expected Thursday night in northern Wisconsin. The coldest early morning is expected to be on Saturday, with 16-below predicted for Hayward and lows in the single digits in the south.  

Another low pressure system is due in Sunday night, with light to moderate snow possible.

(Story courtesy of Wheeler News Service)

New offerings at Oneida Casinos unveiled

December 5, 2013, 7:43 am

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ASHWAUBENON, WI (WTAQ) - Remember when Wisconsin's Indian casinos used to be pole buildings with small burger joints?  

Over the past two decades, they've become Las Vegas-style gaming facilities, most with hotels. Now, more are adding big name, signature restaurants and entertainment facilities -- the latest being the Oneida casinos.  

That tribe is in the midst of a $28 million expansion to its facilities in Green Bay and Ashwaubenon. By the time it's done next spring, the main casino at the Radisson Hotel will have a sports bar named for Packers' legendary coach Vince Lombardi -- along with a Boar's Head restaurant and "Dick Clark's American Bandstand Express."  

Also, the tribe's casino on Highway 54 in Green Bay will have a Countryville Bar and Grill.  

Those improvements were announced Wednesday. Ovations food service of Florida will manage the four new eateries. They're expected to add up to 140 jobs.  

To make room, the Oneida's Mason Street poker room will move to its main casino. 

(Story courtesy of Wheeler News Service)

Marquis Yachts adding jobs after contract with Dutch company

December 5, 2013, 2:57 pm

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PULASKI, WI (WTAQ) - A multi-million dollar contract with a Dutch company could mean more jobs at a Pulaski boat manufacturer.

Marquis Yachts has announced an agreement with VanDutch Marine to build new yachts for the European firm.

Production is set to begin later this month and expected to create 150 new jobs.

"It's pretty exciting around here, this is a good thing," Marquis Yachts President Robert VanGrunsven told FOX 11. "This is a little bit unique where we're actually moving jobs from Europe to the United States, and to this area, and so we're quite proud of this." 

VanDutch America officials say the initial order is for 420 boats. The contract is indefinite and renewable.

New jobs would be mostly manufacturing and include cabinet making, fiberglass and upholstery work. The pay ranges from $14-$16 an hour.

Neither company would say what the deal is worth. The first boat is expected to be finished in February.

(Additional reporting from FOX 11)

Groundbreaking ceremony held for KI Convention Center expansion

December 5, 2013, 3:04 pm

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GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) - Officials with the city of Green Bay and KI put shovels into the ground Thursday, taking the first step in the planned expansion of the KI Convention Center.

Mayor Jim Schmitt says the 70,000 square foot expansion to the building will mean an extra $8 million in local economic development.

“It's the third largest city in the state and we just weren't competitive when it came to convention centers of a decent size. By doubling our space, that's going to put us right in the top five places in the state of Wisconsin,” said Schmitt.

 

KI owner Dick Resch is committing $2 million to the $23 million project. $2 million will also come from the state, with the rest coming from TIF district funding and excess room tax revenue.

It's expected to be complete by the spring of 2015, but tourism officials are already recruiting new national and international conventions.

(Additional reporting from FOX 11)

On Broadway, Inc. board approves extending Walmart talks

December 5, 2013, 3:09 pm

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GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) - During a nearly three hour, closed-door meeting Thursday, board members with On Broadway, Incorporated agreed to keep talks open with Walmart about building a store in the Broadway District.

Walmart is looking to build a 150,000 square foot store on North Broadway and Kellogg Streets in downtown Green Bay.

Officials from Walmart and concerned business owners both made presentations during the meeting. It was only open to On Broadway, Inc. board members and staff.

OBI executive director Christopher Naumann told FOX 11 he would not detail the vote breakdown. However, he did say not all board members voted in favor of extending the discussion.

Earlier this week, the Larsen Green governing board split on a vote to end the development agreement with Walmart, 3-3. Three members of On Broadway, Inc. voted in favor, while city officials voted against. Mayor Jim Schmitt appointed himself to vote for Alderman Brian Danzinger, who was away on active military duty. 

Now the tie-breaking vote goes to Green Bay's Redevelopment Authority, which will take up the issue Tuesday.

The purchase agreement between Walmart and the Larsen Green governing board is due to expire December 12.

The group was created as a part of city money backing On Broadway, Inc.'s purchase of the 22 acres from Birds Eye Foods in 2007. That loan to OBI is scheduled to come due next year.

(Partial reporting by FOX 11)

Man seriously injured in shooting at Appleton bar

December 8, 2013, 7:22 am

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APPLETON, WI (WTAQ) - Police in Appleton are investigating a shooting at a bar.

Authorities say they responded to a call of a shooting inside Luna Lounge in the city's downtown just before 2 a.m. Sunday.

Cops found a man who suffered a gunshot wound to his head. He was rushed to a hospital with life-threatening injuries.

There were lots of people inside Luna Lounge at the time of the shooting.

Police say they continue to look for a suspect.

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Oconto County shed fire early Sunday

December 8, 2013, 7:30 am

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ABRAMS, WI (WTAQ) - Fire crews are working to put out a shed fire in Oconto County Sunday morning.

The call goes out around 5:45 a.m. to 5376 Gulaska Road in the Town of Abrams.

When firefighters arrived, they found a shed fully engulfed in flames, which could be seen from Highway 41.

Crews from several agencies are on scene assisting. No one is in danger at this point.

Packers come from behind to end 5-game skid in 22-21 win over Atlanta

December 8, 2013, 7:38 am

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GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) - The Green Bay Packers scored 12 unanswered points in the second half to end their five game losing streak, 22-21, over the Atlanta Falcons at Lambeau Field Sunday.

Quarterback Matt Flynn finished 24-of-32 for 258 yards with one touchdown and one interception.

Defensive end Mike Neal's sack of Falcons quarterback Matt Ryan led to a fumble, which was recovered by Packers defensive lineman Johnny Jolly.

Four players later, Flynn hooked up with tight end Andrew Quarless for a 2-yard touchdown pass that gave the Packers (6-6-1) the lead for good.

Ryan started hot for the Falcons (3-10), but finished the game 20-of-35 for 206 yards and two TD's with one interception that iced the game for the Green and Gold.

Get a full recap of the Packers win with Mark Daniels and Matt Z on the 5th Quarter, Monday at 5 p.m. exclusively on 1360-97.5 WTAQ News Talk Sports.

UPDATE: Cement truck accident in Fox Valley

December 9, 2013, 7:14 am

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NEENAH, WI (WTAQ) - Traffic along northbound Highway 41 is moving again following a cement truck accident Monday morning.

Authorities say it happened near the Winneconne Avenue exit in the Neenah area, causing traffic to be backed up for several hours.

No word on if there are injuries.

It's unclear if slippery roads played a factor in the accident.

Frigid start to work week in Northeast Wisconsin

December 9, 2013, 7:34 am

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GREEN BAY, WI (WTAQ) - Winter has arrived in full force Monday.

FOX 11 meteorologist Pete Petoniak says the forecast will call for temperatures to hold steady in the teens Monday morning, then drop to near 7 degrees by 5 p.m.

Winds will be out of the west at 10 to 20 miles per hour, with higher gusts. Wind chills are expected to be below zero Monday afternoon.

That will also lead to blowing snow throughout the day, so drivers are urged to slow down, leave early and use caution.

Petoniak says a frigid night is on tap as temperatures fall to near 4 below with wind chills of 10-20 below.

Grand Chute firefighter killed in weekend crash

December 9, 2013, 12:02 pm

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GRAND CHUTE, WI (WTAQ) - A car crash in the Wisconsin Dells area has claimed the life of a Grand Chute firefighter.

29-year-old Jesse Pickett was killed in the crash Sunday. Authorities say Pickett's car crossed the center line on a curve and struck a semi. 

Pickett was driving home with his family. FOX 11 reports his wife and two daughters were hurt and taken to a Madison area hospital.

Slippery roads were apparently not a factor in the accident.

Pickett has been with the Grand Chute Fire Department since 2009. He was the department's public information officer.

(Additional reporting from FOX 11)