July 12, 2026
From addressing community concerns over Fourth of July events and significant local school district transitions to highlighting new resources for Southwest Wisconsin businesses and honoring beloved community pillars, VernonReporter.com covered a wide variety of issues over the past week. Whether it was keeping you informed on public safety updates, tracking federal agricultural policies, or celebrating local arts and festivals, our reporting captured the events shaping the region. Here is a look back at the local stories we brought to you over the last week.
We believe good information helps communities make good decisions. Good decisions help create a community we want to be a part of. We work hard to bring you good information. And you can help us cover even more. If you could hit that donate button, you can help us keep doing what we are doing. $10 or $25 a month helps us add more resources. If you can give more, fantastic. EVERY donation helps.
City officials looking into simulated gunfire display at Viroqua 4th of July fireworks
City officials immediately began looking into the simulated machine gun incident during the 2026 Fourth of July fireworks celebration at the Vernon County Fairgrounds after four individuals drove onto the track in a Jeep outfitted with a simulated .50-caliber automatic weapon.
In his latest “Grouse Hollow Journal” column, Greg Koelker explores the inconveniences of a recent power outage, takes in the beautiful, sprawling views on Hamburg Ridge, and discusses justice for Milwaukee Brewers second baseman Brice Turang.
Two arrested as part of ongoing drug investigation in town of Franklin
Authorities announced that two individuals have been arrested as part of an ongoing drug investigation in the Town of Franklin.
Vernon County Sheriff’s Report for the week ending Saturday, July 4, 2026
The Vernon County Sheriff’s Office reported a busy holiday week. Deputies responded to a variety of incidents, including a report of possible underage alcohol consumption at a residence on US Highway 14 in the Town of Hamburg.
Free AI training program brings practical business skills to Southwest Wisconsin
A new USDA-funded workshop series aims to help local small-business owners leverage artificial intelligence. The free training program will teach participants practical skills to reduce administrative work, improve customer service, and build long-term economic growth in Southwest Wisconsin.
Hoff held a meeting to address a recent incident and subsequently issued a joint public apology. The controversy centered on a Jeep equipped with a simulated .50-caliber automatic rifle that drove onto the Vernon County Fairgrounds track before the fireworks display. The weapon produced realistic muzzle flashes and loud, rapid gunfire sounds that caused panic among many spectators.
Citizens First Bank named among Forbes’ Best Banks in Wisconsin for 2026
Citizens First Bank was recently recognized by Forbes, being named one of the Best Banks in Wisconsin for the year 2026.
Organic Valley is one of several organic dairy processors that have filed a lawsuit against the federal government. The processors argue that the current milk pricing system unfairly subsidizes large-scale industrial dairies at the expense of organic operations.
De Soto passes preliminary 2026-27 budget, but administrators caution ‘change will be coming’
The De Soto Area School District passed its preliminary budget for the 2026-27 school year. However, district administrators warned the board and the community that financial and structural changes will be coming down the line.
‘We can’t afford to fail’: Departing superintendent urges De Soto to pass next referendum
As he prepares to depart the district, the De Soto Area School District superintendent strongly urged the community to pass the upcoming school referendum, stressing that the district “can’t afford to fail” if it wants to maintain its operations and educational standards.
A local Vernon County veteran was awarded a brand new Kubota tractor. The donation is part of the company’s “Geared to Give” initiative, which is designed to support military veterans who are transitioning into the agricultural industry.
State Sen. Pfaff applauds settlement supporting farmers’ right to repair
State Sen. Brad Pfaff issued a statement applauding a recent settlement that supports the “right to repair” for farmers, ensuring they have the ability and legal backing to fix their own agricultural equipment.
Viroqua mourns Ted Harris, 86, a pillar of public safety, education, and athletics
The Viroqua community is mourning the loss of Ted Harris, 86, who passed away recently. Harris is being remembered as a steadfast pillar of public safety, local education, and high school athletics.
State Sen. Pfaff urges USDA to collaborate on screwworm defense and prevention
State Sen. Brad Pfaff is urging the United States Department of Agriculture to collaborate more closely on prevention and defense measures against screwworm to protect the region’s agricultural and livestock sectors.
Viroqua Community Theatre’s production of ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ coming to Landmark Center
The Viroqua Community Theatre announced that its upcoming stage production of the classic musical “Little Shop of Horrors” will be coming to the Landmark Center.
Highway 35 reopens after head-on crash south of La Crosse; investigation continues
Authorities have reopened State Highway 35 following a serious head-on crash just south of La Crosse. Law enforcement officials noted that the investigation into the exact cause of the collision remains ongoing.
Homeowners and renters in Vernon County who sustained damage from the severe storms and hail between April 13 and April 23 are now eligible for help after FEMA officially approved Individual Assistance for the region.
Village of Viola welcomes new Police Chief Shea Bounds
The Village of Viola officially welcomed its new Police Chief, Shea Bounds, to lead the local department and serve the community.
Viroqua’s Driftless Music Festival this Saturday, July 11
The highly anticipated Driftless Music Festival will take place this Saturday, July 11, bringing a diverse lineup of live music—including the Ukrainian ensemble Komunna Lux—to the region for a weekend of community gathering.
Add comment