MENASHA (WLUK) -- It's been 10 years since three people were gunned down in a random act of violence on the Fox Cities Trestle Trail bridge it's considered the worst tragedy in Menasha's modern history -- and the city and its residents are still remembering the lives that were lost that day On May 3, 2015, around 7:30 p.m., a 27-year-old Menasha man named Sergio Valencia del Toro biked to the Trestle Trail bridge following an argument with his ex-fiancée at the pavilion in the center of the bridge where he gunned down 31-year-old Adam Bentdahl A family of five happened to be walking past when the shots rang out and their 11-year-old daughter Olivia all suffered bullet wounds Erin and the couple's two other children ran for their lives as Valencia del Toro continued to shoot in their direction then used a second handgun to fatally shoot himself Jonathan and Olivia didn't survive. Erin was critically injured, but fully recovered. Earlier this week, Menasha police conducted active threat and life-saving mass casualty training at Heckrodt Wetland Reserve ahead of the 10-year anniversary of the Trestle Trail killings Editor's note: The original brief for the gallery associated with this story did not clarify that this shooting happened in 2015 MENASHA – A decade ago, on May 3, 2015, our age of innocence was shattered by gunfire on the Fox Cities Trestle Trail bridge Sergio Valencia del Toro fired 18 rounds from his semiautomatic handgun 33-year-old Jonathan Stoffel and 11-year-old Olivia Stoffel and critically injuring Erin Stoffel He then used a second handgun to shoot himself The loss of life made the shooting spree the worst tragedy in Menasha's modern history It reverberated through the Fox Cities and beyond Shootings had rung out elsewhere in the country notably in 1999 at Columbine High School in Colorado and in 2012 at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Connecticut "It's a benchmark for our department and our community because we hadn't seen anything like that in the past," Menasha Police Chief Nick Thorn said Matt Albrecht was one of the first officers to respond to the shooting on the Trestle Trail and police didn't know who or where the shooter was if the shooter was waiting in ambush or if there were multiple shooters Officers were entering the bridge from both the east and west ends Police boats were needed to clear the trestlework under the bridge deck I had just completed an eight-hour shift as a police reporter for The Post-Crescent when an editor notified me of the shooting Listening to a police scanner as I rushed to the scene I tried to determine whether to respond to the east or west end of the bridge I chose the east end and arrived about the same time Thorn did Thorn and I recall what we encountered at the scene and how we have moved forward biked to the Trestle Trail bridge after an argument with his ex-fiancée Witness accounts put Valencia del Toro on the bridge at least 45 minutes before the shooting He had struck up a conversation with Bentdahl at the pavilion in the center of the bridge They had been talking for at least five minutes before Valencia del Toro shot Bentdahl Erin Stoffel, who happened to be walking by the pavilion with her family, heard the shot and looked at Valencia del Toro as he tried to conceal the handgun. He said, "You didn't see anything," and before she could react he redrew the gun and shot her three times grabbed Selah's hand and starting running off the bridge toward Fritse Park Valencia del Toro continued to shoot at Stoffel and her two children as they ran robbing the community of ever learning why he opened fire Albrecht was the patrol supervisor on duty that day Sundays usually have a lighter call volume for police That changed in an instant. "We all went flying out there down Broad Street" upon receiving the call "There was a wave of people running off the trestle Neenah and town of Menasha (now Fox Crossing) police responded to Fritse Park on the west end of the bridge "The victim (Erin Stoffel) was coming off there but they didn't know where the shooter was," Albrecht said it could be 30 yards from Fritse Park or it could be 10 yards from Broad Street." Police confirmed within 30 minutes that Valencia del Toro was the lone shooter The emergency response transitioned to a crime scene investigation "There was no reason for them to die in that manner," Albrecht said of the victims "It was traumatic for the whole community." Thorn said the shooter — he doesn't refer to him by name — was being rushed off the bridge on a gurney when he arrived 10 agencies would respond to the shooting: the Menasha Neenah and Appleton police departments; Neenah-Menasha Fire Rescue; Town of Menasha Fire Department; Gold Cross Ambulance; Theda Clark Medical Center; Wisconsin State Patrol; and Winnebago County Sheriff's Department "Our officers and emergency services in totality did a fantastic job of providing a response to the Trestle Trail," Thorn said Menasha began equipping its officers with vests containing medical kits the medical kits were only in the squad cars The shooting led to an interagency agreement for area law enforcement to provide emergency assistance in another jurisdiction without waiting for a mutual aid request Radio communications have improved so police can communicate with more agencies Menasha officers had the capability to talk to Neenah town of Menasha and Winnebago County officers but they could only talk to Appleton police through their squad car radios Peer support and mental health training also improved in the aftermath of the shooting expanding to a more wholistic approach to officer wellness and resiliency I can't equate my role as a Post-Crescent reporter to the danger and uncertainty that Albrecht Thorn and other officers encountered on the Trestle Trail bridge I grabbed my camera and ran to the end of Broad Street where I photographed paramedics bringing Valencia del Toro off the bridge on a gurney That photo would land on our front page and would be circulated in newspapers as far away as London I also took a photo of a woman who collapsed to the ground upon recognizing Valencia del Toro I would learn later that she was his ex-fiancée I then interviewed a fisherman and a lock tender to learn what they had heard or seen and then they saw people running off the bridge in both directions I stayed on scene for hours until police confirmed that five people were shot In the days and weeks that followed, the Fox Cities rallied with memorials and prayer vigils to support the victims and their families Erin Stoffel's recovery symbolized the strength and resiliency of the community The Winnebago County District Attorney's Office determined the shooting was justified I periodically walk the Trestle Trail bridge with my family It always gives me pause as I approach the pavilion and the west end of the bridge Contact Duke Behnke at 920-993-7176 or dbehnke@gannett.com. Follow him on X, formerly Twitter, at @DukeBehnke Source: Courtesy: Senator Kristin Dassler-Alfheim The listening sessions will help citizens better understand the budget process and will allow lawmakers to share details from Governor Tony Evers’ budget proposal. “These sessions are opportunities for community members to share their voices, ask questions, and engage in an open dialogue with their elected representatives and Neighbors,” a press release from Rep. Palmeri’s office said.  The listening session in Menasha is tonight, May 1, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. at the Elisha D. Smith Public Library.  The listening session in Oshkosh is Monday, May 5th, from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. a the Oshkosh Public Library. Want More Local News?We've got you. Scan it to get it. News Ethics and Standards | Privacy Policy Why is it marked as private property when the land is owned by the city Did taxpayers pay for a boat launch for the personal use of Valley Marine Mart Answer: I drove to the boat launch along the Menasha navigational canal and can understand the confusion A sign declaring "Private property: No swimming loitering" is mounted on a dilapidated dock adjacent to the boat launch Community Development Director Andrew Dane said the private property sign refers only to the dock itself The boat launch and the land on either side of it are owned by the city and available for public use The city has no record of the dock, but Dane said the owner of Valley Marine Mart has claimed ownership Menasha is exploring options to remove the dock and replace it with a floating dock and boardwalk that would extend downstream to the kayak launch at the west end of Broad Street Dane said that would create "additional opportunities for people to touch the water." Common Council president Stan Sevenich envisioned the Water Street corridor to represent a transformation of Menasha "We call this 'Our Place on the Water,'" Sevenich said Watchdog Q&A: Duke Behnke answers your local government questions The reconstruction involved a new plaza near Tayco Street and the addition of a trail connecting downtown Menasha with the Loop the Lake recreational trail Menasha received a $200,000 grant for the trail from the Fox Cities Convention & Visitors Bureau Additional streetscaping elements will be installed this year They include a decorative railing along the canal between Tayco and High streets wayfinding signage and interpretive canal signage Menasha contracted with the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee to research the history of the canal and its importance to Menasha and the industrial heritage of the Fox Cities will be displayed on four or five interpretive signs Post-Crescent reporter Duke Behnke answers your questions about local government. Send questions to dbehnke@gannett.com or call him at 920-993-7176 MENASHA (WLUK) -- The family of a missing Fox Crossing man held an emotional news conference Thursday pleading for the community's help in finding their loved one 19-year-old Diego Alejandro Ramirez went missing Saturday He was last seen in the area of Elru Drive and Ninth Street Ramirez's family has organized a search party for Thursday "We are here today to ask the community here in Menasha and the people around us we're pleading to see if you can help us find our son We need help," said Ramirez's father who fought back tears for most of the news conference "We hope that the community hears our call and comes and supports us So we hope and we plead to the community to please come and support us and help us out and find Diego," said Oscar Volunteer searchers are asked to meet at Multicultural Coalition and help search for Ramirez throughout the night "I don't know where he is and how he is," Oscar said even though we haven't been living here for that long," with a tattoo of the word "Dad" on his neck "I don't know if my son is hearing this I don't know what reasons you had for you to leave but we just want you back home with your mom with your sister and with me," Oscar said Ramirez was last seen wearing a red hooded sweatshirt and blue jeans Anyone with information is asked to call police at (920) 720-7109 Anonymous tips may be left through the Winnebago County Crimestoppers P3 smartphone app or by calling (920) 231-8477 by David Go MENASHA (WLUK) -- The future of the Barlow Planetarium seems safe even with the UW-Oshkosh Fox Cities campus closing they're expanding their footprint across Northeast Wisconsin with a new portable planetarium "We're hoping that this will be something that shows the reach of the Barlow and the potential that we have," said Barlow Planetarium Director Teri Gee "We've been doing this for 27 years and this is something we can keep doing and even do more than we've been doing It may be a wise move, especially as its neighbor, the Weis Earth Science Museum, is close to being moved to the History Museum at the Castle in Appleton The Barlow's portable planetarium is the largest in Wisconsin holding about 40 people and spanning 15 feet high and 25 feet wide It cost $70,000 -- $58,000 of which came from a grant The planetarium can be packed and transported anywhere within driving distance The staff can then set it up in any indoor area capable of holding a structure of that size "It's really good because there are some schools in particular that can't make it to the Barlow," said Richard Beal "It's either too far away or too expensive for them to rent buses so this planetarium can go to the schools and go to local events around the region." Gee added that it will primarily be driven around Northeast Wisconsin and into the Upper Peninsula of Michigan "I was six or seven years old and we went on a field trip to a planetarium," said Gee recalling when fell in love with astronomy "That's the first time I remember being really excited about astronomy and I kind of kept ahold of that the rest of my life." MENASHA — Political newcomers Tim Hale and Eli Wickman will vie to succeed veteran Stan Sevenich as District 3 representative on the Common Council in the April 1 election Both are members of the Menasha Parks and Recreation Board The winner of the nonpartisan race will earn a two-year term in office Sevenich has served 31 years on the council and 13 years as its president but chose not to run for reelection As part of The Post-Crescent's election coverage Hale and Wickman were asked to complete a questionnaire to explain why they're running for office what makes them the better candidate and how they would address the most important issues facing the city The League of Women Voters of Winnebago County will hold a forum for the candidates starting at 6:30 p.m District 3 reaches 11th Street on the north Sixth Street on the south and Appleton Street on the west The polling place is the Boys & Girls Club of Menasha For information about registering to vote, visit the MyVote Wisconsin website at myvote.wi.gov/en-us Menasha voters can cast an absentee ballot in person on weekdays from March 18 to March 28 at the Menasha City Center while also attracting and retaining businesses into the city of Menasha I want to help make Menasha even better than it currently is for generations to come I'm running for office because I'm proud of Menasha I'm proud that my city has moved in an extremely positive direction and I want to ensure it keeps going that way through decisive leadership What makes you the better candidate in this race?Hale: I combine six years of dedicated public service on the Parks and Recreation Board with deep community roots as a longtime homeowner and family man and vision for fiscal responsibility and business growth make me ideal for District 3 alderman Wickman: I'm a strong candidate because I believe that whether it is a home project or a citywide project you only get to make the smart choice once It is my main priority to be fully informed before making decisions as to not cost residents unnecessary tax dollars five issues have popped up as key issues: rising property taxes safety at Hart Park and redevelopment at the former Shopko site I will tackle these issues by reviewing budgets to eliminate waste by working with Menasha police to make sure they have resources available to combat speeding and by working with Menasha police and the Parks and Recreation Department to improve Hart Park safety I will work with the Community Development Department to push for the redevelopment of this prime location Wickman: Menasha residents have brought up the downtown to me often They express concern over the closing businesses and the empty buildings that take up 50% of the downtown I would encourage all residents to swap at least one purchase haircut or gift a week to a downtown business and support our community I would also work with local businesses to ensure they have ample opportunities to engage back with the community will host several events and shows on campus in honor of National Astronomy Day from noon to 9:30 p.m The events will feature a new addition to the Barlow Planetarium: a portable planetarium funded by a $58,000 grant through the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Fox Cities The portable planetarium is an inflatable dome that fits into a duffel bag when it's not being used it's about 20 feet wide and seats about 40 people It's meant to help the Barlow expand its reach and present planetarium shows outside the building "It's not the same as being (in the planetarium) but it's still a really cool experience," Gee said The portable planetarium will present free shows every 45 minutes from noon through 4:30 p.m Seats are limited to one admission per person and guests are encouraged to register in advance and free educational presentations and telescope clinics from Northeastern Wisconsin Stargazers guests can walk through a scale model of the solar system and watch astronomy shows in the Barlow Planetarium "The whole point (of the event) is to get people excited about astronomy," Gee said She hopes the crowd for this year's Astronomy Day will reach the levels it did pre-pandemic For more information, call 920-832-2848 or visit uwosh.edu/barlow/special-events and click on “Astronomy A to Z” to register for a free seat in the new portable planetarium Rebecca Loroff is an education reporter for the Fox Cities. She welcomes story tips and feedback. Contact her at rloroff@gannett.com A challenger is taking on two incumbents for two available seats on the Menasha School Board Nathan Spangenberg is taking on board president Rob Konitzer and current board member Carol Sturm We asked the candidates to tell us why they should be elected. Their responses were lightly edited for clarity. Candidates are shown in alphabetical order, not necessarily the order shown on the ballot. To learn more about voting and how to register, visit myvote.wi.gov (Spangenberg did not respond to multiple requests from the Post-Crescent to participate in the candidate survey.) Carol Sturm (inc.)Age: 70Residence: MenashaOccupation: I am retired after 31+ years as an educational support employee of the Menasha Joint School District.Highest level of education: One year college along with various workshops conferences and trainings relevant to my workRelevant experience: Incumbent board member three years; my children went to Menasha Schools; parent volunteer; employee of the Menasha School District for 31+ yearsWhy are you running for office?Konitzer: I am running for school board again to ensure the best possible education for my daughter who is a third-grader in the district as well as for all other students in the district Sturm: I am running for the Board of Education to ensure Menasha schools are continuing to make positive strides for our students My experiences of how the schools operated from my time in the district as a parent volunteer and employee has been a great asset to my school board experience What makes you the better candidate?Konitzer: My family includes many teachers so I have always considered a quality education to be of great importance for becoming contributing members of society whether students are preparing for college I have attended numerous conventions and other educational opportunities to stay up-to-date on the current issues facing our district I am the better candidate because of experience with all aspects of our school district I am very approachable and see the big picture of Menasha Schools Working with students has always been a passion of mine to help make a difference Volunteering in the classrooms and PTOs gave insight from the parent perspective I moved through the different areas of support positions ending my career as an administrative assistant in the district office Konitzer: Our district faces many challenges — state financing ensuring all students have equal opportunities keeping quality teachers in the face of shortages ensuring student engagement —all while trying to continually improve based on the latest proven methods It is through open communication with the parents and community that we will work to find the best solutions for all involved Sturm: Our district has very strong leaders who are capable and transparent Academic growth has always been a priority in the Menasha School District along with the safety of our children The mill rate has remained constant through economic change Rebecca Loroff is a K-12 education reporter for the USA TODAY NETWORK-Wisconsin a major manufacturer of reusable packaging is closing its Menasha facility after more than 50 years according to a notice filed with the state of Wisconsin The company decided to close the facility at 1328 Earl St. in Menasha and move operations into its new plant in Greenville, Texas, as part of a consolidation, according to the letter the company sent to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development The letter states that Orbis expects layoffs in phases beginning in March ranging from technicians and operators to managers These employees are not represented by a union In response to the closure, the Fox Valley Workforce Development Board is attempting to work with the company to set up a rapid-response meeting for affected employees, according to Bobbi Miller, business services manager for the board. Those services are funded through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and are covered by the U.S. Department of Labor including personalized job search planning "If anyone does need to reach out to us immediately they can simply go to the Menasha Job Center," said Miller Orbis is working to place impacted workers said that the company will prioritize these affected employees and is working to place them at other plants in the network at affiliated Menasha Packaging facilities in the Fox Valley area What does Orbis's Menasha facility manufacture?Opened in 1973 the Menasha facility molds reusable plastic pallets and bulk containers used in food The Menasha facility is one of the 12 plants operated by Orbis across the United States It remains unclear what will happen to the manufacturing plant building in Menasha after its closure the company will maintain its Material Innovation Center Zhen Wang is a business reporter for The Post-Crescent. Reach her with story tips and feedback at zwang@gannett.com or 920-993-7117 MENASHA — The newly renovated Elisha D. Smith Public Library might well shatter your view of what a library should be when it opens on Feb That is unless you envisioned a library with a makerspace equipped with 3D printers laser cutters and engravers and a water jet cutter capable of slicing through glass Or a recording studio for making music and producing podcasts Or a fully furnished kitchen for use in culinary classes The Menasha library offers all of that after its $9 million renovation project in addition to the more traditional stacks of books There's still a quiet reading area with a large fireplace and a friendly staff willing to help locate what you need airy atmosphere and a décor filled with artwork and inspirational quotes "I thought we had a really nice library before but I think people will be astounded when they come through the doors and see that the space has changed so much," Library Director Brian Kopetsky told The Post-Crescent during a tour of the facility "It's so much brighter and more welcoming." Eppstein Uhen Architects Inc. was the architect for the project Miron Construction served as the construction manager The two-story, 46,000-square-foot library was built in 1969 and last remodeled and expanded in 2003 The hours for the opening day will be 10 a.m Guided tours of the new facility and demonstrations in the makerspace will be offered and a ribbon-cutting ceremony will be held at noon inside the building Menasha's festivities will come a week before the Appleton Public Library opens its $40.4 million facility on Feb The Menasha library renovation was funded by $3 million of city tax dollars and $6 million of private donations The fundraising effort was led by businessman John Bergstrom. It included a $3 million gift from Menasha Corp. in celebration of the global packaging company's 175th anniversary The library is the namesake of the company's founder members of the Smith family provided another $1.5 million bringing their contributions to $4.5 million "The Smith family was really huge in bringing all of this home," Kopetsky said The library's atrium, which faces Racine Street, features a bronze statue of Elisha D. Smith. The sculpture is the work of artist George Lundeen of Loveland, Colorado Lundeen also created the Benjamin Franklin statue that sits outside the Neenah Public Library The first floor of the library contains an east-west corridor that runs between the west entrance and the atrium North of the corridor is the children's section including an open story-time area and a new outdoor patio The layout progresses clockwise to the teen section and the SMITHworks makerspace Much of the shelving is on casters for easier movement as needed "We don't know what tomorrow's going to bring so we want to be as flexible as possible," Kopetsky said South of the corridor is the adult collection and a series of new meeting and study rooms There's also a hub of computers and printers for business activities The makerspace is the best example of how the Menasha library has pivoted from a warehouse of materials focused on reading to a community center focused on hands-on learning The lab is equipped with a sublimation printer a photo printer and a poster printer; high-powered computers capable of animation and video editing; a recording studio for podcasts and oral history projects; five 3D printers; laser cutters for cardboard wood or acyclic; a water jet cutter; and Cricut cutting machines for crafts "The whole purpose is to offer a ton of opportunities and hope that we're going to hit something that someone's interested in," Kopetsky said we really are trying to focus in on the tweens and teens to give them some ideas" of what they can do for a career or hobby Library staff will help patrons operate the machines, but outside expertise also will be brought in to teach techniques and lead projects. The library, for example, will partner with Catch Fire Creations for 3D printing The library's Company E Room remains on the lower level and can comfortably seat 125 people Company E was a Menasha-based unit of the Wisconsin National Guard's 4th Infantry Division that was deployed to Europe during World War I Next to the room is a large learning kitchen that can be used for cooking and nutrition classes That's a unique feature among area libraries The library's local history room also is on the lower level Contact Duke Behnke at 920-993-7176 or dbehnke@gannett.com Lane reductions and some closed interchanges are coming to four miles of State 441 in Fox Crossing The Wisconsin Department of Transportation announced it will soon begin replacing structure approaches at 13 bridges along State 441 between Interstate 41 and South Oneida Street The work is intended to extend the life of the pavement and bridges, and improve the ride quality, according to the department's project overview website Construction is scheduled to kick off on April 28 and the department expects to finish in October What closures should drivers expect on State 441?State 441 will be reduced from three lanes to two in both directions between I-41 and Oneida Street for the duration of the project and the speed limit in the work zone will be set at 55 mph 10/State 441 will close over the I-41 bridge for an estimated four nights A detour will take drivers on northbound I-41 to West Prospect Avenue to southbound I-41 to westbound U.S Drivers should also expect the following ramp closures: For more information, visit projects.511wi.gov/441bypass Contact her at 920-993-7104 or tkern@gannett.com Chris in the April 1 election for the District 1 representative on the Common Council Chris Klein, a former council member, mayoral candidate and state Assembly candidate, will compete against Chris Rand, a former chief of staff for Green Bay Mayor Jim Schmitt. The winner will earn a two-year term on the Menasha council Incumbent Rebecca Nichols didn't seek reelection after 12 years in office As part of The Post-Crescent's election coverage of the nonpartisan race Klein and Rand were asked to complete a questionnaire to explain why they're running for office District 1 covers Doty Island the downtown and areas west of Tayco Street and south of Lake Street The polling place is the Menasha Senior Center or giving back as a member of Menasha Rotary Club I wanted to get back involved more formally by running for District 1 alderman Rand: I'm running to ensure Menasha's government listens and acts for its people As a Marine veteran and experienced leader revitalizing downtown,enhancing our parks and trail system and delivering the best attainable and affordable services community knowledge and dedication to offer the residents of Distinct 1 business owner and manufacturing executive equips me to serve Menasha I bring a fresh perspective on economic growth efficient governance and innovative communication Acting for Us" ensures I'll be an advocate for residents I will be accessible and provide transparency with what's happening at City Hall My priorities for spending in city government are public safety and public works we must challenge our zoning requirements and focus on our current spaces to leverage them for the best purpose I would encourage a study to help establish the best use of the campus so all parties work on a coordinated approach that benefits the entire region Rand: Menasha residents are concerned about transparent governance I propose: Implementing innovative communication tools to keep residents informed about District 1 developments; focusing on responsible fiscal management to stabilize our tax base making Menasha competitive with neighboring communities; spearheading downtown revitalization efforts to attract businesses and create a vibrant city center; enhancing our parks and recreational trail system preserving Menasha's natural beauty; ensuring city services are excellent and cost-effective leveraging my diverse experience to find solutions; and actively seeking resident input to guide decision-making OSHKOSH – Yet another teenager has been taken into custody following the latest gun-related incident in the city A 16-year-old Menasha girl was placed at a detention facility on suspicion of first-degree attempted homicide, first-degree recklessly endangering safety and cruelty to animals in connection to an incident in the 1000 block of Jefferson Street March 14 She is the fourth teen to be taken into custody in connection to a shooting matter in the span of a week following two separate incidents on Cherry and Dove streets According to the Oshkosh Police Department officers responded to reports of multiple gunshots in the area of the 1000 block of Jefferson Street around 9:19 Friday night before learning a residence was struck by multiple bullets Read more: US 10 at I-41 in Winnebago County will be closed 4 nights between April and October fled the scene in a vehicle and remained at large before detectives arrested the Menasha girl Monday Oshkosh Police Department Criminal Investigation Division Sgt Christopher Gorte told the Northwestern he doesn't believe the matters are related nor are they reflective of any rise in gun-related crime in Oshkosh Gorte isn't downplaying the nature of the incidents "I think any time weapons are involved and are fired it is concerning and we consider them no different than if an adult committed the crime," Gorte said "We treat these matters very seriously and we use every instigative tool at our disposal to complete the investigation." Read more: New Froedtert ThedaCare hospital in Oshkosh still on track to be finished by year's end Contact Justin Marville at jmarville@gannett.com and follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @justinmarville More than 100 workers in the Fox Valley will lose jobs when a plastic injection molding plant in Menasha closes later this year ORBIS Corp., a subsidiary of Menasha Corp., plans to move production from its facility on Earl Street in Menasha to a new plant in Texas, according to a layoff notice filed with the state this week The Wisconsin plant will close and 109 workers will lose their jobs says the layoffs will be permanent and will begin around March 16 “The terminations will likely occur in phases depending upon the needs of the business as the work at the Menasha facility winds down,” the layoff notice reads “Some employees impacted by the closure of the Menasha facility may be offered positions for which they are qualified at facilities located in the Fox Valley region of Wisconsin.” The jobs lost range from the plant manager to production operators The employees are not represented by a union Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System and Wisconsin Educational Communications Board MENASHA (NBC 26) — ORBIS Corporation is closing their Menasha facility and laying off 109 employees according to a notice filed to the state on Wednesday ORBIS is a subsidiary of Menasha Corporation and was founded in 1849 The Menasha facility is listed as a manufacturing plant on their official platform "ORBIS Corporation has recently decided to consolidate the operations currently performed at its facility located at 1328 Earl Street which will result in the closure of the Menasha Facility all ORBIS employees currently employed at the Menasha facility will experience a loss of their employment with ORBIS" We cover stories making an impact in Menasha. 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Click here and tell us what we should be covering in your neighborhood by Josh Cavender four people were shot and killed at Trestle Trail Bridge in Menasha Nearly 10 years later, the Menasha Police Department is educating those in the community on how to save a life during a mass shooting On Monday, training was held for staff at Heckrodt Wetland Reserve “We are going to be conducting stop the bleed training and active threat training with the staff," said Community Liaison Officer Matthew Roe "They have asked us to come in and partner with them to just kind of get them some more education be a little more prepared for anything that could happen.” Staff learned how to tourniquet a wound on an arm or leg and were trained on how to apply them during different situations that was a whole new concept for me," said staff member Andrea Bierbrauer "It was kind of cool to see how they work We’re excited to purchase some equipment and make sure our trucks and our equipment have tourniquets Roe stressed a mass casualty event can happen anywhere until it happens there," Roe explained "I’ve responded to multiple active shootings throughout my 20-plus year career and the most common statement after any active threat is Heckrodt Wetland Reserve Executive Director Luke Schiller told FOX 11 such training is critical and having our visitors safe and having our staff safe is of utmost importance So anything that I can do or we can do as a team to set up for success MENASHA (WLUK) – ORBIS Corp. will close its Menasha facility according to a notice filed with the state Terminations will begin on or about March 16 and will occur in phases as production winds down Some workers may be offered positions at other ORBIS or Menasha Packaging Company locations in the valley The company website offers this description of its operations: “ORBIS believes there is a better way to optimize today’s supply chains with reusable packaging products and services bulk systems and metal racks improve the flow of product within the supply chain to reduce costs enhance profitability and add sustainability we’ve got your entire supply chain covered independent North American manufacturer of packaging and promote their products better than anyone.” (WLUK) -- Neenah-Menasha Fire Rescue was busy Tuesday morning responding to two fires almost simultaneously -- including one that displaced residents Crews were dispatched to the 700 block of Harding Street in Menasha for a fire on the outside of a home Firefighters contained the blaze and prevented further extension into the residence The home suffered minor interior smoke damage with moderate external damage to the front of the structure Neenah-Menasha Fire Rescue responded to another fire -- this time at an apartment building in the 1000 block of W Crews arrived on scene to find a stove fire with moderate black smoke coming from the entry door The fire was contained to the apartment unit's kitchen and did not spread to the rest of the building This fire is also believed to be accidental The apartment suffered extensive smoke and fire damage MENASHA — Snow and the forecast of even more snow couldn't dampen the excitement Saturday for the reopening of the Elisha D. Smith Public Library following a $9 million renovation About 25 people waited outside before the doors opened at 10 a.m. eager to experience how the library has been transformed from a treasury of reading materials into a community center focused on hands-on learning "It's amazing what they've done," Fox Crossing resident Peter Mariahazy told The Post-Crescent as he observed the library's SMITHworks makerspace "They have the thing that will cut metal over here I've already got an idea for something I would like to make." "I'm very excited that this is in Menasha." it feels so nice and big and open," Neenah resident Stacy Trombley said Menasha resident Bob Rabideau was impressed with the equipment in the makerspace including a vinyl cutting machine that could be used to make custom T-shirts for a family reunion "There's a lot offered here," Rabideau said I'm looking forward to what kind of programs they have to educate us muggles who don't know how to use any of this equipment." The new library offers the following features: "I feel like we get to balance the old and the new," marketing librarian Elizabeth Tubman said but we also have the traditional things like books for kids No matter what you're interested in or what age you are you can find something that interests you." The two-story, 46,000-square-foot library was built in 1969 and last remodeled and expanded in 2003 Funding for the renovation came from two sources: $3 million from city taxpayers and $6 million from donations The fundraising effort was led by businessman John Bergstrom. It included a $3 million gift from Menasha Corp. in celebration of the global packaging company's 175th anniversary MENASHA - A 67-year-old man is dead after being pulled out of Little Lake Butte des Morts, according to the Menasha Police Department. Police responded to reports of a man yelling at 9:58 p.m Tuesday near the area of Emily Street and Ninth Street a man was 15 to 20 feet offshore in Little Lake Butte des Morts A throwable floating life disc was used with no success to rescue the man The officers eventually entered the lake and were able to pull the man to shore Life saving measures were attempted to save the man who was later pronounced dead at the hospital The incident is currently under investigation Rashad Alexander can be contacted at ralexander@gannett.com and 920-431-8214 (This story was updated because an earlier version included an inaccuracy.) MENASHA — The Menasha Joint School District revealed they have been discussing expanding childcare using the UW-Oshkosh Fox Cities campus, which is set to close at the end of this school year In a news release last Friday and in a business meeting of the MJSD Board of Education on Monday MJSD superintendent Matt Zimmerman laid out a vision for MJSD's uses for the UW-Oshkosh Fox Cities campus The district is in talks to convert the campus into a childcare center and preserve other buildings Outagamie and Winnebago county executives supported this plan in a joint news release Tuesday. However, the plan has detractors, including some who wondered about the future of the Jefferson Elementary School building UW-Oshkosh Fox Cities will join several other UW branch campuses closing across Wisconsin at the end of the 2024-2025 school year, due to declining enrollment As the clock ticks, members of the community have expressed interest in preserving parts of the campus; a petition to save the Communication Arts Center has gathered over 1,500 signatures Not only does the district hope to keep the existing childcare center open they plan to establish multiple childcare centers at the campus They hope to address the loss of childcare spots in the Menasha area which has posed "significant challenges" to area families The district also plans on preserving the planetarium community gardens and performing arts center which a Friday news release called "tremendous community assets." the UWO Fox Cities campus is jointly owned by Outagamie and Winnebago Counties Zimmerman said MJSD was working on a proposal with those two counties Once that proposal is approved by both counties the school board will vote on the final agreement How have local leaders and the community reacted?Zimmerman said Monday that the district would "work with the process of engaging with the community" to determine whether MJSD could carry out the sale. And, in the district's Friday Facebook post featuring the news release several commenters reacted positively to the news Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson and Winnebago County Executive Jon Doemel said Zimmerman's plan for the campus aligned with their goal of continuing the site as "a cultural and economic touchstone for our community." However, others voiced their objections at Monday's Board of Education meeting. During open comment, Stan Sevenich, a Common Council representative for District 3, questioned the need for the UWO Fox Cities campus when Jefferson Elementary School was already closed due to a $3.5 million budget deficit last year echoed those concerns during the meeting itself cost and funding for MJSD's plan for the campus are "at the beginning stages," according to Zimmerman Zimmerman said Monday the district has discussed turning the building into a Head Start site due to its smaller size re-purposing the building has not yet come to a vote OSHKOSH — A 55-year-old Menasha woman will spend at least the next 30 years in prison for fatally shooting her boyfriend in February 2024 but state law allows judges the option to set a parole eligibility date after 20 years At Cheskie's sentencing hearing Tuesday morning Winnebago County Circuit Court Judge Daniel Bissett said allowing Cheskie to possibly get out of prison after only 20 years would not be an adequate sentence for the severity of the crime — but setting an unrealistic parole eligibility date past her life expectancy like the 50 years the writer of the pre-sentence investigation suggested With eligibility for release on extended supervision in 30 years police responded to a home in the 200 block of Chute Street in Menasha for a report that a man had been shot and Cheskie repeated multiple times that no one had been shot "It was just kind a bizarre situation," Winnebago County District Attorney Eric Sparr said Police located Guyette in the bedroom with a gunshot wound to his chest An autopsy found Guyette was shot at close contact possibly while the gun was touching his skin Bissett said at Cheskie's sentencing hearing Neighbors said they heard Cheskie and Guyette arguing prior to the shooting A nearly hourlong audio recording of part of the argument was shared at the jury trial said that recording was evidence that Guyette was verbally abusive to Cheskie Sparr said the argument "was unpleasant to listen to" but "obviously even when somebody's saying terrible things it's still a massive overreaction to ultimately fire a gun at someone." Ceman said Cheskie did not admit to shooting Guyette Sparr said a significant aggravating factor to the homicide was that Cheskie made no effort to provide aid to Guyette after he was shot "There was something that was articulated by a number of people connected to this case leading up to trial and since the verdict and that was basically that after the shooting happened Miss Cheskie sat there while the victim died police only came after a neighbor called 911 after they overheard some of the incident and "realized that something horrible had happened." she made multiple unprompted statements to police including that she took a gun away from Guyette when it went off In a police interview at the Menasha Police Department Cheskie said she is legally blind and is unlikely to hit something if she fired a gun both the prosecution and defense attorneys discussed some details of what the pre-sentence investigation found including that Cheskie had experienced trauma throughout her life an introduction to alcohol at an early age and experiencing the deaths of two of her children Bissett acknowledged Cheskie and Guyette had clearly had "an unhealthy volatile relationship" that was not only a personal but also related to business And while Cheskie did not have an extensive criminal history the judge said it was noteworthy that Cheskie had previous misdemeanor convictions related to domestic violence primarily in domestic disturbances but one case of battery No victims gave statements at Cheskie's sentencing but family members of Guyette filed letters with the court discussing the negative impacts of Guyette's death on their lives The letters detailed emotional devastation financial burdens and anxiety prompted by the homicide Cheskie declined to give a statement before sentencing Bissett set a restitution hearing for 1:45 p.m Contact Kelli Arseneau at 920-213-3721 or karseneau@gannett.com. Follow her on X, formerly Twitter, at @ArseneauKelli A 19-year-old from Menasha was criminally charged Wednesday for allegedly setting fire to a Wisconsin congressman’s Fond du Lac office over the briefly enforced federal ban on TikTok Caiden Stachowicz made his initial court appearance Wednesday via Zoom from the Fond du Lac County Jail as well as a misdemeanor property damage charge.  On Sunday, Stachowicz started a fire at the Fond du Lac offices of U.S. Rep. Glenn Grothman, R-Glenbeulah, according to a criminal complaint As a Fond du Lac police officer worked to put out the fire shortly after 1 p.m Stachowicz allegedly admitted to starting the fire because he didn’t like Grothman He told police he purchased gas and matches in Menasha and then drove to Fond du Lac looking for Grothman’s office Stachowicz allegedly tried to break into the building first but was unsuccessful He then started a fire behind the building near an electrical unit When police asked why Stachowicz wanted to burn the building he told them it was because TikTok was being shut down by the U.S government and Grothman voted “yes” on the legislation banning the popular video app under its current ownership “Caiden stated he believed the shutdown was against his constitutionalrights,” the complaint states “Caiden said in the past he had done peaceful protests but believes that peace isn’t an option anymore so he set fire to Congressman Grothman’s Office.” Fond du Lac County District Attorney Eric Toney said Stachowicz “sought out” Grothman’s office “to burn it down” because the congressman voted in favor of forcing the sale of Tiktok “Nobody was physically injured as a result of the arson,” Toney said We’re still waiting on some of the dollar amounts that that may be.” Grothman’s office did not immediately respond to a request for comment. Earlier this week, he told WGBA-TV he believes the fire was started by someone “looking for attention.” “If it wasn’t the TikTok issue that caused him to light a fire at my office he would have found some other issue,” Grothman told the station “I can’t think of any congressman who’s had their office attacked for something like that.” Toney requested the $500,000 cash bond with the condition that Stachowicz have no contact with Grothman unless via electronic means for official business and that he not possess weapons or ammunition.  He said the request was necessary for the protection of the public and to ensure Stachowicz makes future court appearances said setting the cash bond that high was not warranted He said the 19-year-old lives at home with his parents and siblings in Menasha and would be able to make it to court Fond du Lac County Circuit Court Judge Tricia Walker felt the $500,000 cash bond was appropriate with the conditions Toney proposed and required Stachowicz not possess fire starting materials Stackowicz’s ability to return to court,” Walker said “This has a Class C felony on it that includes significant potential incarceration I also believe that there is a potential risk to the public.” Patrons of any Fox Cities library should be able to have holds transferred from any other library in the area and they should also be able to return books to any of those libraries How did we get into such a terrible situation Answer: If Wisconsin's library systems were drawn today a single system might well cover the entire Fox Cities knowing how the communities have grown together But after the Wisconsin Legislature authorized the creation of public library systems in 1971 The Outagamie Waupaca Library System (OWLS) encompasses Outagamie and Waupaca counties and counts the Appleton New London and Shiocton libraries among its members The Winnefox Library System takes in Fond du Lac Waushara and Winnebago counties and includes the Fond du Lac Appleton Library Director Colleen Rortvedt said the systems don't provide direct public service but offer critical support like shared technology delivery networks and continuing education They were established to ensure all communities had access to library services and shared resources that come with being part of a larger network rather than relying solely on local support the challenge is balancing historical boundaries funding structures and local governance with patron expectations for seamless service across regions," Rortvedt said Menasha Library Director Brian Kopetsky and Winnefox Executive Director Clairellyn Sommersmith said each system has its own governance the libraries in both OWLS and Winnefox allow patrons to sign up for library cards regardless of their home community For example, I live in Neenah and often work in Appleton, so I have a Neenah (Winnefox) library card and an Appleton (OWLS/InfoSoup) card, which alone provides access to 48 libraries in northeast Wisconsin "These libraries can meet 95% of all the requests made to them," Kopetsky said "If there is a book or item not available in one an individual would not even need to use another library card but request the item through interlibrary loan a robust system in this state allowing items requested from anywhere to arrive on your home library's shelf ready to be checked out." If a patron were to accidentally return an item to a library outside the system — an Appleton book to Menasha for example — Kopetsky said the libraries have procedures in place to get the item back where it belongs Both OWLS and Winnefox have multiyear contracts with vendors who provide the database of the patrons and materials so any change to the current setup wouldn't happen overnight "These separate contracts with different companies mean that immediate sharing of materials between the two systems is not possible," Kopetsky said "but this is a discussion that has been brought up in the past and will continue to be discussed in the future The goal continually is to make libraries more accessible to all." MENASHA – The Wisconsin Beef Council has declared a Menasha restaurant as having one of the eight best burgers in the state with each receiving the most nominations on the Wisconsin Beef Council website over the past month More: What's the best burger in Wisconsin? These are the Elite Eight in the Wisconsin Beef Council's contest The Elite Eight establishments will now be visited by a "secret panel of judges" that will evaluate the burgers Wisconsin Beef Council executive director Tammy Vaassen said in a statement The winner will be revealed May 1 to kick off National Beef Month Each nominee must be composed of at least one ground beef patty served on a bun or other bread product Burgers can include any combination of condiments all of the burgers are from Wisconsin restaurants Mihm's will be competing with the following Wisconsin establishments for the title: Last year, the "All American Burger" at Pickles Bar and Grill in Hazelhurst earned the title of Wisconsin's Best Burger Mihm's was deemed one of the best places to get a burger in the Fox Valley You can follow along with the 2025 Wisconsin's Best Burger Contest on the Wisconsin Beef Council's Facebook and Instagram pages MENASHA — More than three years after a fire destroyed the former George A Menasha city officials say redevelopment plans are still on the horizon assured residents that the city has not forgotten the former mill site “It is on our minds and on our radar,” Hammond told The Post-Crescent on Monday and it isn't something that’s been forgotten by the city.” The former paper mill burned down in May 2021 Here is what to know about the former Whiting paper mill Menasha’s new community development director said the city aims to execute an actionable redevelopment plan for the site by 2026 Dane said an environmental assessment at the Whiting mill Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) grants will help the city determine the best use of the site Hammond said potential uses for the parcel either housing developments or an outdoor recreational area Menasha’s experience with the mill reflects a broader trend across the Fox Valley Dane said that redeveloping sites like the Whiting mill typically takes 10 to 30 years due to factors like property ownership and funding for the cleanup of the post-industrial space “The turnaround to successfully redevelop these sites is measured in decades Last December, the city’s common council voted to remove the perimeter fence surrounding the burned-out Whiting mill the city has been paying $500 per month to rent the fence The fence is expected to be taken down by January or February and the common council is keeping its options open for additional safety measures including putting up a few signs for trespassers to stabilize the site in preparation for future redevelopment confirmed that his company completed the project in early March 2022 and has been paid more than $235,800 Juedes said the scope of the project included demolishing burned-out buildings and disposing of regulated waste such as asbestos The city opted to keep the perimeter fence which was installed at the initial stage of the demolishing work The property remains under the ownership of Tom Danz of Danz Real Estate Danz told The Post-Crescent in an email that he is aware of the decision to take down the fence but refrained from making any further comments He said in September 2022 that his business would not oppose foreclosure as it could provide a redevelopment opportunity for the mill site and the investigation into the fire is still open the cause of the fire is still undetermined," said Shane Krueger deputy chief of the Neenah Menasha Fire Rescue in a statement "None of the information reviewed to date has been substantiated." Lieutenant Peter Sawyer of the Menasha Police Department encourages the public to reach out to him or Krueger if they have any information related to the investigation What is the history of the Whiting paper mill?The former mill was one of Wisconsin’s smallest and oldest paper mills The mill closed in 2016 and had been vacant since the closure Tom Danz purchased the paper mill from the Whiting family in 2014 His goal was to keep it operating as a craftsman-type mill — the mill made high-end art paper However, the business struggled to achieve sufficient sales to remain viable, he said in 2016 Danz had been the company’s president and COO since 1999 and CEO since 2011 It had 28 employees and was represented by the United Steelworkers union we learned about how kids enjoy school buses — especially on days when they don't need to go to school Lamers Bus Lines' hiring and safety coordinator She is based in Menasha and hires bus drivers serving Appleton Often you'll see her driving the bus herself or showing off a school bus at touch-a-truck events Here's what we asked her and what she said When I first started here (four years ago) one thing I hadn't really realized was the (school bus) driver shortages all around the country And I hadn't realized how much drivers have to go through: getting their CDL then staying up to date with their license One thing that does surprise me is when I'm out and about doing touch-a-truck (events) with our buses What's your favorite moment in your work?In the summertime when we're getting ready to amp up for the next school year I get to work out in the community quite a bit and I get to go down to the children's parade with the bus All the kids in their costumes love to get on the bus So I love getting out and about and doing all the different events What do you enjoy doing outside of work?I like to read I like to go to baseball games like the Timber Rattlers so I like to hang out with them and play around and just kind of be with them and then I have an old grumpy man dog who's going to be 15 this year So I kind of fell victim to (the) COVID puppy and got a second dog at that time and they love to have all the attention they can have my favorite part is getting out in the community Even just driving (the) bus allows us that and we get to see these kids grow up and different members of their family I get to see these kids progress throughout throughout the years I absolutely love getting to see them again if I cover a route that they're on or if they move (up) into a different school It's a rewarding experience to be part of a community in that sense and still have the flexibility of being able to do other things Thanks for reading. Suggest questions, provide feedback or nominate public school staff members to interview by sending an email to Rebecca Loroff to rloroff@gannett.com. President Donald Trump makes a major sports announcement. The announcement comes amid reports Washington, D.C. will host the 2027 NFL Draft. WATCH$150,000 bond set for Menasha man charged in woman's fatal overdoseby Brian Kerhin APPLETON (WLUK) – Julius Elmer was charged Monday with reckless homicide for allegedly providing the drugs linked to a 2022 overdose death. He returns to court March 11 for a preliminary hearing police were called to investigate the death of a 42-year-old Appleton resident in the 500 block of E police entered the apartment and found the unresponsive woman Elmer allegedly provided the drugs to another man The second suspect was referred to as a “co-defendant” during Elmer’s court hearing but charges have not been filed against him yet The cause of death was listed as “acute mixed drug (Acetylfentanyl Alprazolam and Fentanyl) toxicity,” the complaint states MENASHA (WLUK) -- The Menasha school district will not buy the University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Fox Cities campus Menasha officials say feedback from the community played a role in their decision to end discussions of buying the campus The district says it is still interested in addressing the community's child care shortage Leaders also say they are willing to continue to be part of the conversation about the future of the college campus Winnebago and Outagamie counties jointly own the campus property Leaders with both counties have previously said general maintenance and upkeep of the property could cost them a combined $1 million each year no matter if buildings are being used or not "You never go into battle with just one battle plan I do have audibles I am working on -- housing being one of them," said Winnebago County Executive Jon Doemel If there's no deal in place by the time June rolls around county leaders would like to find a way to keep operations at the current University Childcare Center going "Even if you can't find a way to afford it I'm not interested in going the other way we should at least do our best to maintain status quo," said Doemel "The counties are looking at if there are any possible owner/operators that could take over the operation," said Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson The counties say everything remains on the table right now in terms of selling or leasing the property The only thing certain is that UWO-Fox Cities will cease to exist once class instruction ends in June Nelson says they plan on doing three separate appraisals of the property. Both counties are unable to elaborate further on other options that remain on the table for the campus at this time MENASHA (NBC 26) — The Menasha Joint School District is backing out of its plan to convert the UWO Fox Cities campus into childcare centers Recently, the district said they were in "significant" talks with Outagamie and Winnebago counties to buy the property and implement multiple high-quality childcare centers as well as preserve other buildings on the campus we emphasized the importance of careful consideration of the long-term financial health and sustainability of the school district," MJSD said in a news release Tuesday "A common theme in the community feedback received by the District was a desire for more information about the project's impact on Menasha Joint School District taxpayers and the potential costs to the school district Without these details and more opportunity for public discussion about these details MJSD said they remain committed to find "creative solutions to solve the childcare crisis" throughout the community "We will continue our commitment to find ways to maintain a strong foundation for ongoing educational success and growth benefiting both current and future students as well as our entire community," MJSD said local leaders are left searching for the next best use for the property which is jointly owned by Outagamie and Winnebago counties “This is a very important cornerstone in our community,” said Outagamie County Executive Tom Nelson you do have a lot of options of how you can put this to great use that makes things a little bit more complicated because you are dealing with multiple stakeholders that can cover anything from people interested in childcare to planetariums While officials work through possible solutions the two counties will be responsible for the campus’s maintenance—a cost that could reach $800,000 a year MENASHA (WLUK) -- The Menasha Joint School District is interested in purchasing the UW-Oshkosh Fox Cities campus -- a roughly 40-acre plot of land Superintendent Matthew Zimmerman shared the district's plan during Monday's school board meeting "This is not a vision that the community can embrace This is not a school-district-alone sort of initiative," Zimmerman said during his presentation "This is a community initiative." “Our parents are talking about the need for childcare Businesses are talking about the need for childcare in terms of being able to recruit and retain high quality employees," Zimmerman told FOX 11 before the meeting "We really see this as an opportunity for us to meet a community need.” asking: How is purchasing the UWO-Fox Cities campus a smart move “You were trying to save $2 million before you want to buy a university," Sevenich said during open comment "And I’m hearing rumblings about the possibility of at-risk students Fox Crossing resident Steve Krueger echoed Sevenich's thoughts “Now you’re looking at a university that two full counties with a population of 380,000 people are saying is not feasible for their budget but a school district with 30,000 people in it is all of a sudden saying 'We can handle this,'" Krueger said The school board wouldn't say how much taxpayer money would be used to purchase the property and I reject the notion that we’re spending significantly," Zimmerman told us He said discussions are still in early phase -- but indicated private funding is an option "I think we have to have all options on the table We have to work with private and public partners in order to make this vision a reality," he explained "What I hope folks are talking about is whether or not it’s a good vision to have affordable childcare for every child that’s in the city of Menasha." Recreation and Economic Development Committee will be discussing the sale of the campus at its meeting Tuesday Any decision will have to get approval from both Outagamie and Winnebago Counties MENASHA (WLUK) -- A person carrying a rifle near Menasha High School was arrested Wednesday afternoon Police say they were notified of the person carrying the rifle in the 800 block of Milwaukee Street around 2:30 p.m With the help of four other law enforcement agencies "This was a swift and coordinated response by our officers and partner agencies to ensure the safety of our community," Police Chief Nick Thorn said in a news release "We appreciate the public's patience and cooperation as we worked to resolve this incident safely." Police promised more details as they become available MENASHA (WLUK) - Wisconsin's best high school wrestlers will soon embark on the Kohl Center To qualify out of a division one sectional wrestlers needed to finish 1st or 2nd and it was hosted Saturday afternoon at Menasha Team Sectional Champion: Kaukauna Galloping Ghosts APPLETON — Fox Cities employers cut about 400 jobs in January a significant increase compared to January 2024 the area's unemployment rate is still better than the statewide and national rates 393 individuals in the Fox Cities faced either permanent or temporary layoffs from two major companies according to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development expects to lay off 284 employees due to the termination of its contract with American Airlines ORBIS Corporation is closing its Menasha facility The total number of layoffs could be higher because the federal Worker Adjustment and Retraining Notification (WARN) Act only requires employers with 100 or more full-time employees to file a written notice 60 calendar days after a worksite closing Overall Wisconsin's unemployment rate in December 2024 — the most recent data available — was 3%, below the national rate of 4%. Across the state, 3,076,500 people were employed, setting a record high of increasing employment in the state, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics In the greater Appleton area, the unemployment rate was at 2.5%, which is 0.1% higher than it was a year ago, with 129,700 people employed. The rate was 2.6% in Oshkosh-Neenah Here are the two companies that filed WARN notices with the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development in January The regional airline announced the layoff of 513 employees statewide with 284 jobs in Appleton and 219 in Milwaukee The layoffs are expected to begin on and around March 31, following the end of the airline’s contract with American Airlines on April 3 The company filed the WARN notices with the state on January 30 including both unionized and salaried employees 294 union workers will be temporarily laid off The Association of Flight Attendants (AFA), which represents flight attendants, said in a statement on February 14 that AFA representatives met with Air Wisconsin management to address furlough protections and retention bonuses for flight attendants choosing to remain until the contract termination with American Airlines Air Wisconsin has not agreed to the AFA’s proposals “(Air Wisconsin) did not offer any solutions on how flight attendants would be able to get to work,” the letter read The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAMAW), which represents clerical, office, fleet, and passenger service employees as well as maintenance personnel, stated on Jan. 31 that the union is scheduled to meet with Air Wisconsin during the first week of March to discuss the impending furlough Air Wisconsin has not responded to specific questions from The Post-Crescent regarding furlough protections and transition plans for affected union workers nor has it outlined plans for impacted salaried employees communication manager of Air Wisconsin Airlines said in an email: “We have not yet made decisions with respect to furloughs and continue to evaluate alternative flying opportunities.” is closing its Menasha facility after 50 years of operation and laying off 109 employees The major manufacturer of reusable packaging decided to consolidate operations into its new plant in Greenville The company announced its decision on Jan. 15 and the layoffs are expected to begin on or about March 16 about 28 employees have accepted jobs at Menasha Packaging locations and four took jobs in other ORBIS roles Director of Marketing Communications at ORBIS Corporation The Fox Valley Workforce Development Board has scheduled rapid-response meetings for affected employees at Orbis in late February, said Bobbi Miller, business services manager for the board. Those services are funded through the Workforce Innovation and Opportunity Act and are covered by the U.S. Department of Labor Miller encouraged other impacted ORBIS employees seeking jobs to attend the Fox Cities Employment Fair The job fair will be held at The Fox Cities Exhibition Center. For more information, visit wisconsinjobcenter.org/events/2025/0318_FoxCitiesEmploymentFair2.pdf NEENAH — A subsidiary of 175-year-old Menasha Corp. will spend more than $50 million on a Fox Cities expansion that will create more than two dozen new jobs Neenah-based Menasha Packaging on Tuesday announced the plan includes a new press and complementary automation and robotics upgrades that, combined, will double the company's North American preprint capacity, according to a media release "These investments are going to drive improvements in both quality and safety while delivering incremental capacity and significant reductions in make ready and set up times," Jeff Krepline Menasha Packaging's executive vice president Here's what to know about the company's plans The company plans to add a new eight-color and varnish preprint press to its existing equipment The preprint press will also include automation and robotics designed to handle a range of quantities and to quickly change from one job to the next The preprint press will enable the company to produce colorful graphic materials for customer product packaging The company has six featured markets it serves: Food Menasha Packaging has recently invested to upgrade its other graphic packaging print capabilities that include short- and long-run digital flexo marked 175 years of business early this year and company leaders say the expansion will not only benefit its customers but the Fox Cities and other communities where it operates More: As Menasha celebrates 150 years, an influential business from city's past marks milestone, too "We see these investments as something that underscores our unwavering commitment to our customers and community growth," said Mike Riegsecker The new preprint press is expected to create jobs in the Fox Cities but it will also support jobs at Menasha Packaging's network of facilities in 17 states and Ontario The materials produced in Neenah will be shipped out to those facilities for conversion into packaging for customers' products The company expects the expansion will create 25 to 30 new jobs in the Fox Cities area Menasha said the jobs include press operators A search of Menasha's worker recruitment web page indicates the company currently has more than two dozen Fox Cities-based jobs available "I am excited about the stability this investment brings locally here in Wisconsin as we add new positions but the rolls of printed liner will also support hundreds of positions across multiple states providing an exciting future for our employees," Krepline said in the release Contact Jeff Bollier at (920) 431-8387 or jbollier@gannett.com. Follow him on Twitter at @JeffBollier MENASHA (WLUK) -- A Fox Valley church is getting national attention for its renovation St. Mary Catholic Church unveiled the changes over the weekend after the building was closed to the public for four months The 1883 Gothic revival church now features a new paint scheme inside Gold stars are spread across a dark blue ceiling Historical appearances of the Virgin Mary are depicted in 12 paintings "The original paint scheme was at least as -- maybe more elaborate than the current one it got progressively simplified and eventually just turned into fields of solid color and the most recent paint scheme was just sort of beige on beige let's go back to something like it would have been," parish trustee emeritus Bill Walsh said The renovation project was featured in the Liturgical Arts Journal which spurred donations from around the country to add to the parish fundraising Future phases of the renovation could include restoration of the pews and flooring Parish leaders opened the church for tours this week Tours are scheduled on Thursday and Friday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m is closing its facility in Menasha and impacting 109 jobs The facility is among the smallest plants in the Orbis network and it molds reusable plastic pallets and bulk containers used in food and beverage applications It has been in operation since 1973 when it was the among the first of its kind to produce those materials “This plant has a long legacy and was pivotal in the history of plastic pallets," Norm Kukuk "Our people are our priority and we are actively working to place them at other plants in our network.” The company is moving its operations to Greenville Texas and layoffs are scheduled to begin on March 16 according to an announcement made Wednesday "The terminations will likely occur in phases depending upon the needs of the business as the work at the Menasha facility winds down," according to a letter the company sent to the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development "Some employees impacted by the closure of the Menasha facility may be offered positions for which they are qualified at facilities located in the Fox Valley region of Wisconsin that are owned or operated by ORBIS' affiliate More: Top Workplaces: ORBIS helps keep plastics out of landfills Orbis headquarters is located in Oconomowoc and has offices in Michigan It has 14 manufacturing locations around the country and in Canada It also has 35 service centers including locations in Mexico develops and works on specifically designed packaging and merchandising for customers The Menasha Corporation is the third oldest family-owned manufacturing company in the United States founded in 1849 (The following is a transcription of the full broadcast story) Mary Catholic Church is a “crown jewel” of faith and history in Wisconsin a fixture of Menasha’s landscape since the 1880s is undergoing a significant restoration aimed at preserving its rich legacy “It’s not just a worship space; it’s a place where it’s beautiful,” Lightner said our job is to try to pull people toward Christ to see the divine in a godless world.” What began as routine maintenance to address peeling paint and general disrepair evolved into a $2 million endeavor Church members stepped up to fund the ambitious project contributing to new art installations and intricate designs that now adorn the space One notable feature is the addition of 2,200 gold leaf stars on the ceiling Other enhancements include painted roses on the walls and 12 hand-painted medallions depicting Marian apparitions ‘How can we bring art out for the children and the rest of the people to see the faith of the Immaculate Conception which is the name of the church.’” Lightner said While the high cost of the project raised questions Lightner emphasized that the funds were voluntarily contributed by members who believe in the vision “It’s money that people see the project and then get behind,” he said “It’s not where we’re absconding with money and putting it into something that people don’t want.” a firm specializing in historic preservation Their research into original designs uncovered intricate patterns on walls and arches The updates also include multicultural angels symbolizing the global reach of Catholicism The restoration stands as a testament to the community’s dedication to preserving the church’s beauty and history for future generations OSHKOSH (WLUK) – Catherine Cheskie was sentenced Tuesday to life in prison for killing her boyfriend Judge Daniel Bissett said the case required more than the 20 year-minimum for a parole eligibility date but also wanted to make it reasonable so that it’s something Cheskie could attain He also denied a defense request to stay the sentence while the case is appealed a man who rents a room in the basement of the Chute Street home where the victim lived heard the two arguing early Saturday morning The witness went upstairs to see what was going on and saw Guyette on his bed "I'm shot," and the witness called 911 Police arrived to find Guyette dead of a gunshot wound to the chest at one point saying she was legally blind and could not accurately hit a target She also said she did not believe he had shot himself Tests showed gunshot residue on Cheskie's hands which she explained by saying that she moved the gun away from Guyette after he had been shot prosecutors say her stories were inconsistent about whether the gun was in his hands or on the bed next to him MENASHA (WLUK) -- The Menasha school district is in discussions to open child care facilities on the current University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh Fox Cities campus district officials said in addition to the child care facilities the district would preserve the Barlow Planetarium community gardens and Communication Arts Center UW-Oshkosh plans to close the Fox Cities campus after the current academic year Outagamie and Winnebago counties jointly own the land and buildings and it was not clear in the news release whether the Menasha school district was proposing to purchase the property FOX 11 reached out to District Superintendent Matthew Zimmerman for more information Planetarium Director Teri Gee says the news has been a long time coming “The Barlow Planetarium has been around for 27 years and we are really excited about the idea that we could still be around," she said waiting to hear what’s going to happen to the campus and we’re really excited at the prospect that someone is going to come in FOX 11 attempted to speak with members of the Children’s Center but they did not immediately respond for comment The school district said it would keep the community updated as discussions continued The History Museum at the Castle in downtown Appleton has also been in talks to take over the operations of the Weis Earth Science Museum You can read the full statement from Superintendent Zimmerman below: MENASHA — Two lottery tickets sold in Menasha the week before Christmas turned out to be big winners A $50,000 Powerball ticket sold at Kwik Trip for Wednesday's drawing matched four of five numbers (6-15-18-33-49) and the Powerball (7) the Badger 5 jackpot of $165,000 was won by a ticket sold at Menasha Gas Inc. That ticket's winning numbers were 1-8-9-10-23 Lottery wins have been a common occurrence in Menasha recently Wisconsin Lottery said Friday in a media release announcing the wins a winning $22,500 Badger 5 jackpot ticket was sold at Menasha Circle K a customer at a Menasha Kwik Trip earlier this year won $20,000 after purchasing a $1 Fast Play Progressive Bingo ticket More: Not sure what to do in the Fox Cities? Here's more than 40 things to put on your bucket list More: After 33 years, Amy Hanten's final show on WLUK was filled with teary moments, dear friends and Campbell's condensed soup Players have 180 days from the draw date to claim the winnings Wisconsin Lottery retailers who sell a winning ticket over $599 receive a 2% incentive and the odds of winning its jackpot are 1 in 169,911 and the odds of winning a $50,000 Powerball prize are 1 in 913,130 The odds of winning a Fast Play Progressive Jackpot are 1 in 240,000 Tickets for both Badger 5 and Powerball drawings must be purchased before 9 p.m to be considered for their respective drawings.