AGP Executive Report

New Wisconsin online betting fight: A lawsuit filed Aug. 5 challenges Act 247, arguing Wisconsin’s constitution bars lawmakers from authorizing gambling—aiming to stop online sports betting before it launches. State Fair food spotlight: At the Wisconsin State Fair, judges crowned Fiesta Grill & Cantina’s “Birria Flamin’ Bombs” as top Sporkies and Old Fashioned Sipper Club’s “Tilt-a-Spritz” as Drinkies winner ahead of Aug. 6-16. Wildlife & outdoor travel: Xcel Energy says low water levels are affecting parts of northern Wisconsin rivers and lakes, with slower boating and limited access at some launches. Family-friendly history stop: Old World Wisconsin marks 50 years preserving early Wisconsin immigrant life across 600 acres in the Kettle Moraine. Road-trip planning note: Buc-ee’s says its first Wisconsin location is underway in Oak Creek, with an early-2028 opening expected. Zoo update: Racine Zoo welcomed two new fosa sisters, Anansi and Mahery, from Central Florida Zoo.

Wisconsin State Fair: The 175th Wisconsin State Fair runs Aug. 6–16 in West Allis, with gates open 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Sunday–Wednesday and 10 a.m.–midnight Thursday–Saturday; adult admission is $20 (seniors $15, youth 6–11 $13, kids 5 and under free) and tickets can be bought at the gate. Family travel support: Kathy’s House marks 25 years as a hospital guest house on the Milwaukee Regional Medical Center grounds, offering lodging and support for families traveling for advanced care. Road-trip planning: The Old Farmer’s Almanac released its 2026 Fall Foliage Map, with peak color timing expected to move from late September in northern areas to November farther south. Outdoor safety: A new study suggests deer-vehicle crashes could drop where cougars are present, as deer avoid areas with healthy predator populations. Trail rules: An Ozaukee Press letter argues Wisconsin’s legal class 1–3 e-bikes are fine, and the real issue is misuse by improperly marketed “e-bikes” that exceed speed and power limits. New travel draw: Construction is underway on Wisconsin’s first Buc-ee’s in Oak Creek, a 73,000-square-foot travel center expected to bring major interstate traffic and jobs.

Road-Trip Comfort Upgrade: WisDOT has reopened the I-43 safety rest areas near Denmark and Maribel after a 16-month rebuild, adding ADA-friendly restrooms and adult/child changing stations plus more truck parking (56 stalls each) to ease a statewide shortage. Outdoor Safety Watch: Devil’s Lake State Park is seeing more serious fall-related deaths this year, with details emerging about a May climbing guide death and a later July fatal fall. Local Travel Safety: Wausau officials are urging extra caution around Marathon Park during the Wisconsin Valley Fair, especially at busy Stewart Avenue pedestrian crossings. Tourism & Community: Milwaukee’s Marcus Performing Arts Center is using its Broadway Bridges program to bring local students into Broadway shows and behind-the-scenes experiences. Travel Planning Tip: AAA says Wisconsin’s worst crash months are November and December, when winter weather and holiday traffic raise risk. Family Fun Calendar: Here are eight standout state fairs to add to your summer/fall plans, with Wisconsin readers likely to spot a few worth the drive.

30th Street Corridor Trail: Milwaukee County DOT released a proposed seven-mile bike-and-pedestrian route linking the Hank Aaron State Trail to Havenwoods State Forest, running through 20 north-side neighborhoods; residents can review maps and send feedback through Aug. 28. Outdoor Access & Youth Nature: Federal grant cuts have forced the cancellation of outdoor education hiking and camping trips for tens of thousands of students, raising fears of a “domino effect” on future environmental stewards. Line 5 Legal Fight: The Bad River Ojibwe Band, joined by the League of Women Voters and groups including Clean Wisconsin and 350 Wisconsin, sued the Wisconsin DNR over permits for Enbridge’s Line 5 reroute water crossings near the reservation. Tourism & Local Flavor: Rhinelander’s R&T’s Dinky Diner reopened after a 2023 fire with WEDC support, returning as a local and tourist favorite. Door County Tragedy: Two Chicago-area kayakers were recovered off Washington Island; officials say drowning may have been the primary cause. Moving Tips: DATCP shared guidance for tenants preparing to move this month, including how to vet moving companies and check complaint history. Community Events: North central Wisconsin communities are gearing up for National Night Out with multiple local events on Aug. 4.

Travel & Tourism Spotlight: Blue Harbor Resort invites the public to a free, RSVP-required “Our Town” live broadcast from 9–10 a.m. on Lake Michigan shores in Sheboygan, with local giveaways, music, and a pre-show breakfast. Family Fun: The 79th Annual Sweet Corn Fest returns to downtown Mendota this weekend with street booths, carnival rides, and multiple live-music sets. Outdoor Safety: A 21-year-old Madison man, Caden Michael Brunner, was identified after a fatal fall at Devil’s Lake State Park; DNR is investigating. Beer & Hiking: Wisconsin author Chad Turner discusses “Best Beer Hikes Wisconsin,” pairing trails with breweries across the state. Events Watch: PGI confirms the 2026 Wisconsin Fireworks Festival at Wisconsin International Raceway remains on schedule after storm impacts. Local Travel Notes: McFarland approves a traffic study at a key intersection after a fatal bicyclist crash, aiming for safer crossings. Weather & Planning: Severe drought is worsening in northern Wisconsin, raising fire danger and water-use concerns.

Bridge & Road Planning: MnDOT and WisDOT will host an Aug. 12 open house in Superior to preview the new Blatnik Bridge design, expected fall traffic impacts, and the $1.8 billion replacement timeline. Family Travel & Volunteering: Samaritan’s Purse says about 750 volunteers from 23 states are helping Wisconsin tornado families in the Appleton area with cleanup and support after an EF-3 storm. Local Summer Nostalgia: Bay Beach Amusement Park in Green Bay ranks among Wisconsin’s most nostalgic summer spots in a new survey, highlighting its classic rides and lakeside feel. Travel Safety & Health: Orkin’s annual bed-bug “hot cities” list flags Milwaukee among metros where treatments were most common, a reminder for travelers checking hotels and short-term rentals. Getting Around: American Airlines will relaunch scheduled flights between Chicago O’Hare and South Bend on Oct. 3, restoring an air route after more than 25 years. Outdoor Recreation: A Wisconsin “bike trail invasive species” story spotlights how non-native plants can threaten trail corridors and visitor experiences. Sports Tourism (Indirect): Wisconsin men’s basketball released its non-conference schedule, including key home dates and early-season road tests that could shape fall travel plans.

Northern Hemisphere wildfire smoke and heat: A new analysis says July’s “perfect storm” of extreme heat, strong winds, and fast-growing wildfires pushed smoke and black carbon across about 20% of land in the Northern Hemisphere, from North America into Europe and parts of Russia—an urgent reminder for travelers to watch air-quality alerts and wildfire forecasts. Wisconsin weather watch: This week’s forecast flags severe storms, dangerous heat, and worsening wildfire conditions moving across the U.S., with Wisconsin still recovering from recent tornado damage. Chetek bridge project: A $2.39M County D bridge rehab over Lake Chetek starts Monday, Aug. 3, with one-lane traffic and temporary signals; boat traffic stays open and work runs into late October. Aurora viewing: NOAA says the northern lights could be visible in northern states including Wisconsin on Sunday night, with a moderate chance for brighter, more active displays. Local travel-friendly events: Mendota’s Sweet Corn Fest Grand Parade (Aug. 9) brings the Final Phaze and Golden Knights drill team along a mile-long Wisconsin Avenue route. Milwaukee community calendar: Neighborhood events include Back to School celebrations with free backpacks and supplies, plus National Night Out activities.

Northern Lights Watch: NOAA says the aurora could be visible Sunday night from parts of Washington, Idaho, Montana, Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula, with a Kp index of 4 out of 9 and no major space-weather activity expected. Great Lakes Energy Update: Michigan’s Supreme Court ordered regulators to revisit Enbridge’s Line 5 tunnel permit beneath the Straits of Mackinac, a setback for supporters and a win for tribes and environmental groups that raises new uncertainty for the Wisconsin-to-Sarnia pipeline. Outdoor & Local Travel: Superior Trails and Ales drew 150+ runners to the Superior Municipal Forest, highlighting year-round hiking and trail access in one of Wisconsin’s biggest municipal forests. Community Health Access: Wisconsin hosted a first-time Remote Area Medical pop-up clinic in Verona, with people camping out for free medical, dental, and vision care. Road-Trip Adventure: A La Crosse man is starting a 7,000-mile “Great Loop” jet ski run, threading through locks and dams and aiming to avoid hurricane season. Vintage Finds: Hundreds turned out for the Wisconsin Vintage Pyrex Swap in Cottage Grove, a Midwest-style collector stop for retro kitchenware.

Fox Cities Tornado Aftermath: A Neenah couple returned from a camping trip to find a 300-year-old tree smashed their home after an EF-3 tornado hit July 27, forcing repairs that could take years. Outdoor Adventure: A La Crosse man is launching a 7,000-mile “Great Loop” circumnavigation on a jet ski, threading locks and dams while aiming to dodge hurricane season. Trail Running in Superior: The new Superior Trails and Ales 5K/10K drew 150+ runners to the Superior Municipal Forest, with proceeds supporting trail expansion. Vintage Finds in Cottage Grove: Hundreds turned out for the Wisconsin Vintage Pyrex Swap at Oakstone Recreation, bringing collectors from across the Midwest. Community Festival in Wausau: The Hmong Wausau Festival is underway at Peoples Sports Complex (Aug. 1–2) with food, vendors, and sports plus singing and dancing. Health Access in Verona: Wisconsin hosts its first Remote Area Medical pop-up clinic (Aug. 1–2) offering free medical, dental, and vision care—no insurance or IDs required. Milwaukee Transit Safety: Milwaukee police are investigating a fatal hit-and-run where a bicyclist was struck and killed on W. Vliet Street. Local Parks Planning: Milwaukee County released a plan for a new 30th Street Corridor trail connection linking Havenwoods State Forest to the Hank Aaron State Trail. Outdoor Events Calendar: Ely’s Watercross race and concert (Aug. 7–9) is set to go on after wildfire smoke concerns.

Milwaukee Trail Plan: Milwaukee County DOT released a recommended route for a new 30th Street Corridor trail linking Havenwoods State Forest to the Hank Aaron State Trail, aiming to connect more than 20 neighborhoods to the Oak Leaf Trail network; the $700,000 federally funded feasibility study (with SmithGroup) is expected to wrap next year, and residents can weigh in before funding construction. Eau Claire Memorial: The Eau Claire Fire Department is honoring firefighter Bryce Jungbluth, 27, who died after a medical emergency; a procession is set for Saturday and flags will fly at half-staff through Aug. 10. Brewers Postseason Push: Milwaukee’s playoff picture is heating up—here’s what’s left at American Family Field and which Brewers-Cubs series dates to circle for fans planning a last trip before October. Ely Watercross Weekend: After wildfire smoke concerns, the Ely Watercross race and concert is still on for Aug. 7-9 at Longbranch in Winton, with racing, camping, and a Saturday concert. State Fair Basics: Wisconsin State Fair runs Aug. 6-16 in West Allis (10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun-Wed; later Thu-Sat), with ticket prices and a few deal days listed for visitors. Delafield Deer Program: Delafield is seeking more hunters for its free urban deer hunting program, offering stands, parking, GPS coordinates, and DNR tags—archery-only and open to qualified hunters statewide. Milwaukee Hit-and-Run: A 64-year-old bicyclist was killed in a hit-and-run on W. Vliet St.; police are asking for tips. Walker’s Point Case: A 16-year-old charged in the Harbor District killing of David Krause is headed to adult court, with felony murder and related charges.

Wisconsin State Fair 2026: West Allis’ big summer stop runs Aug. 6-16 (10 a.m.-10 p.m. Sun-Wed; 10 a.m.-midnight Thu-Sat) at 640 S. 84th St., with tickets $20 adults/12+ and $13 for ages 6-11; kids 5 and under are free, plus several deal days including a $5 admission option on Aug. 6 via Hunger Task Force donations and a Celebrate Wisconsin Day discount for out-of-state IDs. Outdoor & tourism events: Grand Marais’ 97th annual Fisherman’s Picnic drew visitors even after smoky skies earlier in summer, while Rockford-area families still have August festivals and fairs to squeeze in before school starts. Local travel ideas: A Wisconsin “muskie tale” highlights two record fish attractions at the Moccasin Bar and the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame near Hayward—perfect for anglers and curious road-trippers. Safety on the roads: Milwaukee police are seeking a driver in a fatal hit-and-run that killed a 64-year-old bicyclist near W Vliet St. and N 17th St. Conservation & recreation: A Wisconsin land trust leader discusses the Knowles-Nelson stewardship program and what happens when funding runs out—an issue that directly affects outdoor access.

Severe Weather & Safety: Wisconsin consumers are being warned to avoid “storm chasers” after the July 27 tornado and hail damage in eastern Wisconsin, with DATCP urging homeowners to hire established local contractors, use written contracts, and verify permits and completed work before final payments. Health Watch: Wisconsin has logged 160 cyclosporiasis cases as a nationwide surge continues, though officials say there’s no active outbreak in the state and investigators haven’t pinned down a single common food source. Travel & Community Events: Milwaukee’s District 5 National Night Out returns Aug. 1–7 with family-friendly activities like games, a petting zoo, and close-up looks at police horses and vehicles. Local Recovery: Fox Cities communities are still digging out after an EF-3 tornado with a 12.1-mile path, and residents are organizing donations and cleanup support. Sports & Wisconsin Spotlight: Tony Romo was placed on leave from CBS Sports after an OWI arrest in Milwaukee, following a golf tournament. Family Fun & Planning: Wisconsin State Fair planning is in full swing, with “know before you go” guidance circulating ahead of the season.

Tornado Recovery: Gov. Tony Evers mobilized the Wisconsin National Guard to help Winnebago County after an EF3 tornado hit Appleton and Menasha, with support for debris removal, traffic help, and wellness checks. Outdoor & Family Fun: Stillwater’s Bridge the Valley Bike Rally (Aug. 9) adds a kid-focused 5-mile Family Ride plus a “Kids Zone” at the event hub. Nature & Parks: Sheboygan County highlights lesser-known wildlife areas, including Gerber Lake Wildlife Area and Sheboygan Marsh, for low-impact paddling, fishing, and hiking. State Parks & Conservation: The Wisconsin Natural Resources Board meets Aug. 13 in River Falls to consider land donations and acquisitions tied to Devil’s Lake, forest legacy, and wildlife areas. Travel & Lodging: American Airlines tightened refunds for last-minute tickets, changing the 24-hour cancellation rule for some travelers. Local Events: Marshfield’s Post 54 hosts the 98th Wisconsin American Legion Baseball state tournament, and Scottville’s Rubber Duck Race returns Aug. 8 on the Pere Marquette River.

Rural Roads Boost: Gov. Tony Evers and WisDOT announced nearly $30 million for 101 Wisconsin communities to repair or replace aging culverts and small bridges through the new Local Small Structures Improvement Program, building on the Agricultural Roads Improvement Program. Milwaukee Travel Disruption: Milwaukee officials are pushing for tougher rules after We Energies began a road closure on West Lincoln Avenue a day early without notice, raising concerns for residents and local businesses near the airport corridor. Film Incentives for Visitors: Superior is rolling out new filmmaking incentives, including up to a 25% cash rebate on production expenses (plus the state tax credit), aiming to bring more crews—and tourism buzz—to the city’s lighthouses, marina, and mansions. Fort McCoy Economic Impact: A new garrison commander took over at Fort McCoy, highlighting the base’s large training mission and its estimated $1.6 billion economic impact across Wisconsin. Local Dining Upgrade: Fitger’s Barrel Room in Duluth unveiled a new smokehouse menu with in-house smoked meats like brisket and pulled pork—another reason to plan a Northwoods weekend. Family-Friendly Staycation Credit: Kalahari Resorts & Conventions (Wisconsin Dells) earned a spot on TIME’s inaugural list of America’s Best Private Companies 2026.

Film & Tourism: Superior is rolling out a 25% cash rebate for film crews that spend at least $10,000 in the city, stacking with the Wisconsin film tax credit—aimed at bringing more productions (and jobs) to the Northwoods. Storm Recovery & Safety: After an EF-3 tornado hit the Fox Cities area, Menasha cleanup is in full swing with volunteers, shelters, and ongoing damage work as residents rebuild and power issues linger. Outdoors & Weather Risk: A tree-trimming worker in Whitewater died after a suspected lightning strike while clearing trees for a utility—another reminder to take summer storms seriously. Family-Friendly Local Events: Stoughton’s community calendar runs July 30–Aug. 9, with free outdoor music and kids’ programs. Sports Tourism: Lambeau Field in Green Bay is spotlighted with a practical stadium guide for Packers fans planning a Wisconsin trip. Community Travel/Youth: Boy Scout Troop 11 camped at the Milwaukee County Zoo, using the animal-filled setting for merit badge-style challenges and hands-on outdoor fun.

Severe Weather & Travel Disruptions: A powerful tornado and storms tore through Wisconsin’s Fox Valley, with officials issuing emergency declarations, road closures, and power outages as cleanup began across Menasha and Appleton. Road & Bridge Updates: Chetek’s Long Bridge on County Highway D will shift to one lane starting Aug. 3 for rehabilitation, with temporary signals and delays expected through late October. Public Health & Air Quality: Wildfire smoke is driving “Great North American Smokeout” conditions, with unhealthy air alerts reported across major U.S. cities including Milwaukee as smoke drifts south. Local Safety Alerts: Two people died in a wrong-way head-on crash on I-94 near Hixton, shutting down westbound lanes for hours. Travel-Adjacent Community Events: Port Washington’s Niederkorn Library is wrapping summer with August activities, including a Golden Ticket Pool Party at Pirates Hollow Community Waterpark on Aug. 14. Outdoor & Nature: River otter fun comes with a reminder that Wisconsin’s native species are hard to spot—so keep an eye out on local waterways and consider guided wildlife viewing.