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Sunday Summary: Local stories covered this week on VernonReporter.Com

Jan. 18, 2026

We have covered a wide variety of issues over the last week ranging from public safety reports and traffic accidents to significant community donations and legislative efforts. From the allocation of opioid settlement funds to honoring local veterans and celebrating business achievements, our coverage keeps residents connected to the critical developments shaping Vernon County.

Vernon County Sheriff’s Report for the week ending Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026

The Vernon County Sheriff’s Office released its weekly report detailing incidents including a trespassing complaint at a De Soto business and a harassment warning issued to a resident in the Village of Stoddard. Deputies also dispatched an injured deer in the Town of Hamburg and began an investigation into the theft of a John Deere 4630 tractor from a property in the Town of Liberty.

Viroqua Food Co-op announced a donation of $4,306 to Community Hunger Solutions – Viroqua Food Co-op photo

Viroqua Food Co-op announces $4,306 donation to Community Hunger Solutions

The Viroqua Food Co op announced a donation of $4,306 to Community Hunger Solutions generated through the collective efforts of the grocery store’s owners and shoppers. The funds will support the mission of CHS to source and deliver fresh produce and dairy items to more than 20 food pantries and meal sites throughout Vernon, Monroe, La Crosse and Crawford counties.

Viroqua council reviews comprehensive plan and strategic infrastructure growth

The Viroqua City Council met to review the city’s comprehensive plan and discuss strategic growth regarding infrastructure. The council is working to align future development projects with the long term goals of the city to ensure sustainable expansion and maintenance of essential services.

Western Technical College Viroqua – Tim Hundt photo

Vernon County Opioid Prevention and Abatement Steering Committee agrees to fund new initiatives

Vernon County officials continued to shape how they will use opioid lawsuit settlement money as members of the Opioid Prevention and Abatement Steering Committee weighed new funding requests on Tuesday. The county expects to receive about $1.3 million over 17 years from national opioid settlements and staff told the committee the county has taken in a little more than $437,000 so far.

Grouse Hollow Journal for Jan. 14, 2026

Greg Koelker

In the January 14, 2026, edition of the Grouse Hollow Journal, following that stinging defeat at the hands of the Bears, columnist Greg Koelker talks about that time some of the Packers wound up on stage with him and his band. And he reflects on his history as a Green Bay Packers fan, noting that he grew up in a family of supporters and attended high school during the team’s first two Super Bowl wins. He reminisces about legendary figures from that era, including Coach Vince Lombardi and players like Bart Starr and Paul Hornung.

Viroqua VFW Post 3032 successfully delivered holiday gifts to 46 local veterans

The Viroqua VFW Post 3032 announced the successful completion of a holiday initiative that delivered gifts to 46 local veterans. The effort highlights the organization’s ongoing commitment to supporting those who have served in the armed forces and ensuring they are remembered during the holiday season.

Quartermaster Eric Sherry, Chaplin Mark Volden and Commander Keith Yahn, of Viroqua VFW Post 3032 visited 46 veterans at local area nursing homes on December 30, 2025, including 101 year old WWII veteran George (Doc) Piper – Viroqua VFW photo

Horse-drawn buggy driver seriously injured in crash on State Highway 33

Authorities reported a serious crash involving a horse drawn buggy on State Highway 33 earlier this week. The driver of the buggy sustained serious injuries in the incident which remains under investigation by the Vernon County Sheriff’s Office.

VARC named finalist in two categories for Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Awards

The Vernon Area Rehabilitation Center has been named a finalist in two categories for the Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year Awards. The organization was recognized for its empowering work in inclusion and its manufacturing capabilities.

In 2025 VARC received the Award for Empowerment through Inclusion by the Wisconsin Manufacturer of the Year. From left to right: Fred Schwartz, Brenda Thorne, Travis Boylen, Elizabeth Filter, Eric Filter, and Jesse Nelson – contributed photo

Rep. Billings and Sen. Pfaff introduce legislation to cap the price of insulin

State Representative Jill Billings and State Senator Brad Pfaff have introduced legislation aimed at capping the out of pocket cost of insulin for Wisconsin residents. The proposed bill seeks to make the life saving medication more affordable and accessible to those living with diabetes across the state.

City of Viroqua clarifies who is in charge of veterans memorial site

The City of Viroqua has clarified the management structure for the local veterans memorial site. Under the new arrangement veterans will regain a formal voice through a commission that meets when needed while the Parks and Recreation Department will continue to handle the day to day care and maintenance of the grounds.

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