AGP Executive Report

Milwaukee Travel Tech: Milwaukee Mitchell Airport rolled out a $4 Premium Bag Check, letting travelers drop checked bags at a station near the information desk and skip the ticket counter (3 a.m.–11 a.m.). Urban Water Recreation: Milwaukee joined the Global Swimmable Cities Alliance, with plans for safer river access like ladders and riverfront improvements. Outdoor & Family Safety: Severe flooding in Missouri triggered a National Guard helicopter rescue of 200+ stranded campers from Camp Taum Sauk. Wildlife Watch: Wisconsin confirmed its first pale swallow-wort populations in Shawano and Oconto counties, prompting an urgent push to stop spread. Local Events: Wade House Carriage Driving Days returns July 10–12 in Greenbush, and Menomonie hosted a Morris dancing day at the farmers’ market. Travel Comfort Alert: Orkin’s 2026 bed bug city list again flags major travel hubs, with Chicago topping the nation. Sports Draft Buzz: The 2026 MLB Draft began with the White Sox taking Roch Cholowsky No. 1, a reminder that Wisconsin fans will be watching local farm-system moves closely.

Road Construction & Detours: WisDOT will close State Highway 180 in Marinette County starting July 20 to replace 42 deteriorating culverts between Hwy. 64 and U.S. 141, with two-stage closures and a fall finish. Outdoor Planning: A Northwoods nature column notes summer’s “second round” for wildlife as some birds and monarchs nest again, while a separate forecast says summer temps stay near-normal but extreme heat is likely next week with a slightly drier tilt. Wildlife & Safety: Officials report a bear sighting that led to a relocation after it got stuck in a tree, and Minnesota’s ruffed grouse survey shows the species is in its expected declining phase of its population cycle. Conservation for Visitors: Groundswell Conservancy and Ducks Unlimited completed a nearly 2,000-acre Sugar River land purchase in Rock County, keeping it open for hiking, fishing, hunting and wildlife viewing. Food & Health Alert: DATCP issued a public health alert for Rackow Family Sausage “Rueben Flavored Bratwurst” due to misbranding and undeclared soy/egg allergens. Travel-Adjacent News: The MLB Draft is set for July 11-12 in Philadelphia, with the Brewers picking at No. 25 in the first 100 and only two selections early.

Food Safety Update: Wisconsin health officials are warning about cyclosporiasis after a major cyclospora outbreak in Michigan, urging people to wash fresh produce and watch for prolonged diarrhea. Conservation & Outdoor Access: Groundswell Conservancy and Ducks Unlimited completed a nearly 2,000-acre Sugar River purchase in Rock County, adding major new public hiking, fishing, hunting and wildlife viewing access. Travel Planning for Families: Pemberton’s Back-to-School Bash in Madison handed out 500 backpacks to students at Brittingham Park. State Park Accessibility: The DNR highlighted Disability Pride Month universal recreation options, including adaptive kayaks, all-terrain wheelchairs, accessible fishing piers and sensory-friendly tools. Wildlife Safety at a Wisconsin Icon: Isle Royale closed tent camping through July 31 after a wolf was seen approaching and entering tents. Local Travel Notes: The U.S. DOT approved international route authority transfers tied to Allegiant’s acquisition of Sun Country, with only one overlapping nonstop route reported. Road Safety: Wisconsin State Patrol will run aerial enforcement next week on US 51, I-94, I-43 and WIS 29 across multiple counties. Nature & History: Archaeologists found 16 dugout canoes in Lake Mendota, including one estimated at 5,200 years old.

Wisconsin Travel & Tourism: Milwaukee’s Pfister Hotel and Saint Kate are keeping the America 250 spirit going with a summer-long patriotic stay, including Saint Kate’s America250 Art Tour running through July 31. Roads for Travelers: Gov. Tony Evers and WisDOT have released more than $180 million in third-quarter payments for local road improvements, aiming to keep the “first and last mile” of trips safer and smoother. Bed Bugs (Travel Safety): Orkin’s 2026 bed bug hotspot list names Milwaukee as the only Wisconsin city on the top 50, ranking it 13th overall (down from last year), with Chicago still #1. Summerfest Update: Summerfest 2026 drew 568,711 attendees (down 5.6% from 2025), but organizers say out-of-state visitors made up nearly half of ticket buyers; 2027 dates were announced. Outdoor Access: Kettle Moraine State Forest’s Southern Unit and DNR added a new accessible kayak launch at Ottawa Lake, designed to make paddling easier for visitors of all abilities. Right-to-Repair for Rural Travelers: The FTC and Wisconsin AGs reached a right-to-repair settlement with John Deere, requiring diagnostic and repair tools to be available to owners and independent shops. Health Alert: Marion County health officials confirmed 15 cyclosporiasis cases in 2026 so far, a parasite illness tied to “explosive” diarrhea.

Rodeo Season in Spooner: The 72nd Spooner Heart of the North Rodeo is underway, with pro PRCA action kicking off Thursday at 5:45 p.m. at the Spooner Rodeo Arena, featuring saddle bronc, bareback bronc, team roping, steer wrestling, tie-down calf roping, barrel racing and bull riding. Milwaukee Summerfest Update: Summerfest 2026 drew 568,711 attendees across nine days (down 5.6% from 2025), but organizers say the headline 613,475 includes two sold-out Garth Brooks shows; 48% of Brooks ticket buyers came from outside Wisconsin. Local Events for Visitors: Bastille Days returns July 9-12 at Cathedral Square Park, and Festa Italiana runs July 10-12 at Henry Maier Festival Park—both big draws for travelers looking for food, music and culture. Northwoods Cycling Fundraiser: The 15th Annual Ride with Leinie is set for July 25 in Conover, with multiple ride distances and a post-ride celebration at Conover Town Park. Outdoor Land Stewardship: Schumacher Farm Park hosts its second annual Indigenous Culture Celebration Saturday, July 11 (free), featuring hands-on activities, performances and a Ho-Chunk traditions exhibit. Right-to-Repair for Wisconsin Farmers: A new FTC settlement requires John Deere to let owners and independent shops fix their own equipment, with Wisconsin’s Horicon Works in the mix.

Milwaukee Events: Bastille Days and the Milwaukee Dragon Boat Festival are back, with Bastille Days running July 9-12 at 520 E. Wells St. and the Dragon Boat Festival set for July 11 along the lakefront. Right-to-Repair for Wisconsin Travelers: A new FTC settlement means John Deere owners and independent shops can access diagnostic and repair tools, making it easier to keep tractors and other equipment running for farm and outdoor work. Health Alert for Summer Plans: Wisconsin health experts are urging people to wash fresh produce after a Michigan outbreak of cyclosporiasis (a parasite causing severe, sometimes explosive diarrhea) sickened hundreds nationwide. Local Outdoors & Learning: UW-Superior’s new floating classroom, the Sadie Ann, is nearly ready to sail to its Great Lakes home for research and instruction. Family Fun: The Kingdom of Wonders Medieval Circus returns to Lodal Park in Kingsford this weekend with Renaissance-themed aerial acts and storytelling. Sports & Draft Buzz: The MLB Draft begins Saturday, and Wisconsin fans will be watching the Brewers’ first-round pick at No. 25.

Right-to-Repair: The FTC and Wisconsin (plus several states) reached a settlement with John Deere that requires the company to share diagnostic and repair tools with farmers and independent shops, not just authorized dealers—good news for anyone who fixes their own equipment. Travel & Tourism: The Lafayette County Fair is underway in Darlington through Sunday, a major southern Wisconsin tourism draw featuring livestock, fair food, rides and live entertainment. Outdoor & Wildlife: Wisconsin DNR confirmed pale swallow-wort, an invasive vine, for the first time in Oconto and Shawano counties—an aggressive milkweed-family plant that can crowd out natives and disrupt monarch survival. Health Watch: Wisconsin reported 35 cases of cyclosporiasis linked to “explosive” diarrhea so far this year, with officials pointing to travel as a likely driver. Lake Geneva: Lake Geneva-area storms left three children dead after boat capsizes, with widespread damage and downed trees reported. Road Trip Ideas: A new “Retro Road Trip” guide spotlights mid-century stays and Swiss-themed charm in New Glarus, plus a throwback stop in Princeton. Local Planning: Gov. Evers and WisDOT announced over $180 million to improve local roads statewide. Family Travel Safety: FEMA disaster aid is now open for Milwaukee County residents affected by April storms and flooding, with an Aug. 31 deadline.

Wisconsin Farm Tech Days: No Joke Dairy in the Redetzke family’s hometown is hosting Wisconsin Farm Technology Days with a “We’re Serious” theme, featuring robotics, precision farming, live field demos, and youth-focused programming—plus the chance to see how Wisconsin agriculture is pushing innovation. Bayfield Music Getaway: Win a pair of 2-day passes to the Lake Effect Music Fest Aug. 14–16 at Big Top Chautauqua in Bayfield, with 13 bands, outdoor adventure between sets, local food trucks, craft beer, and on-site camping included. Northwoods Concerts: Superior is kicking off Bayside Sounds Around Town and pairing it with Porchfest—more free outdoor music for summer travelers looking for easy, local plans. Outdoor Park Plans: Pike Lake Unit in the Kettle Moraine State Forest is holding a fish fry with live music Friday, with pollock dinners, ice cream, and required park admission. Invasive Species Alert: The DNR confirmed pale swallow-wort in Oconto and Shawano counties, urging fast reporting to protect forests and grasslands. Travel Safety Note: A 57-year-old Milwaukee man was charged after a fatal Muskego crash tied to alleged intoxication. Air Travel Update: Allegiant is adding nearly 30 seasonal Florida flights in late 2026 as it absorbs some Sun Country routes.

Road & Trail Updates: Oshkosh drivers face multiple road closures and lane restrictions through July 10 for paving, storm sewer work, and utility upgrades. Outdoor Tourism Risk: The Cheese Country Trail could face partial closure if a $5M bridge repair grant doesn’t land—aging, failing bridges are already limiting parts of the route used by thousands of ATV/UTV riders. Invasive Species Watch: The DNR confirmed pale swallow-wort in Oconto and Shawano counties (first known Wisconsin populations), urging fast reporting to help prevent spread. Family Travel Safety: Lake Geneva’s Fourth of July boating tragedy killed three children; officials say the storm was “sudden and severe,” with survivors rescued. Travel Health Alert: Cyclosporiasis cases tied to “explosive” diarrhea continue to rise nationwide, with Michigan leading the count. Local Events: Iola’s Car Show & Swap Meet (July 9–11) returns with a major economic impact and thousands of collector vehicles. Bed Bug Reminder: Orkin’s annual list flags Milwaukee among the top bed-bug cities, a caution for travelers and overnight stays.

Multi-State Egg Price-Fixing Settlement: The DOJ and 17 states, including Wisconsin, announced a $3.3 million settlement tied to alleged egg price collusion, with court approval pending; if approved, 53 million eggs would be distributed to food banks and nonprofits, including 2 million for Minnesota. Outdoor Travel & Wildlife: A look at Wisconsin’s Sandhill State Wildlife Area highlights a rare bison herd plus birdwatching and scenic trails—an easy add for nature-focused trips. Summer Road-Trip Planning: RV Windshield Replacement ranked two Wisconsin routes among top in-state summer getaways, including Milwaukee-to-Bayfield via Green Bay and Madison-to-Door County via Fond du Lac. Family-Friendly Local Fun: Blue Harbor Resort in Sheboygan is gearing up for Fourth of July live music and lakeside festivities. Travel Safety for the Outdoors: Tick-bite warnings are in the spotlight again, with experts urging prevention as tick activity expands. Disaster Relief for Travelers Returning Home: FEMA assistance is now open for Northeast Wisconsin residents with uninsured April storm damage, including help that can cover temporary lodging and basic repairs. Local Attractions: Old World Wisconsin marks 50 years of immersive living-history experiences.

Missing Teen Search: Michigan State Police and the Gogebic County Sheriff’s Office are searching for 15-year-old Melody Rose Leanne Jiyres, last seen July 4 in Ironwood; authorities say she may be trying to travel to Reedsburg, Wisconsin. Tourism & Retirement Economy: A Wisconsin Watch report looks at why more older adults are still working in Door County as costs rise and retirement plans fall short. Outdoor Research: The DNR says five northern Wisconsin lakes were set aside 80 years ago for experimental fisheries and research, offering a long view of how climate change affects fish and anglers. Weather for Travelers: Monday looks pleasant, but thunderstorms return Tuesday and Wednesday, with a stronger severe-weather risk midweek. State Leadership & Business: Gov. Tony Evers says Wisconsin’s economy is strong and urges successors to protect it while tackling unfinished work, including education and property taxes. PFAS in the Great Lakes: New research maps how “forever chemicals” move through Great Lakes ecosystems and into people. Independence Day Travel Safety: Coast Guard ramps up Lake Michigan patrols for the Fourth of July weekend.

Road & Safety: A crash closed I-43 southbound near Good Hope Road in Milwaukee, injuring two people; the lanes have reopened. Traffic Disruptions: A serious two-car crash shut down I-41/94 in Kenosha for nearly four hours on a busy July 4 weekend, with diversions in place. Motorcycle Tragedy: A motorcyclist died after a Milwaukee crash in Riverwest; the car driver was arrested and charges are pending. Nature & Outdoors: The Nature Conservancy expanded the Tenderfoot Forest Reserve near Land O’ Lakes, protecting Wisconsin’s largest remaining old-growth northern mesic forest—boat access, then a hike into the heart of the tract. Wildlife & Health: Experts warn tick bites are surging; prevention tips include light-colored clothing and prompt checks after outdoor time. Travel Ideas: Golfweek highlights Wisconsin among states with top-ranked public-access courses. Local Culture & Tourism: Langlade County Historical Society Museum hosts the Wisconsin Historical Society’s History Makers Tour (Great Lakes–Small Streams) through July 31. Weather Watch: NOAA says northern lights could be visible in parts of the northern U.S. Sunday night.

Old-growth forest protection: The Nature Conservancy expanded the Tenderfoot Forest Reserve near Land O’ Lakes, adding 1,472 acres of remote, boat-accessible old-growth northern mesic forest—an easy reminder that Wisconsin’s best nature stays best when it’s kept wild. Holiday travel safety (fireworks): ReadyWisconsin is urging safer Fourth of July celebrations, citing hundreds of Wisconsin emergency visits for fireworks injuries and reminding families to follow local rules, keep kids away from fireworks, and never try to relight duds. Lake Geneva boating tragedy: A sudden storm on Geneva Lake led to a state of emergency in Lake Geneva and the deaths of three children after a recreational boat capsized; officials say lifejackets were worn and urge boaters to watch forecasts and seek shelter fast. Milwaukee-area outdoor escapes: A guide to Milwaukee’s top paved, multi-use trails highlights the Oak Leaf Trail and other rail-trail favorites—great for walkers, bikers, and skaters looking for a quick getaway. Local lawsuit tied to tourism-adjacent growth: Racine County residents filed a class-action against Microsoft over noise from its Fairwater data center, a reminder that big development can affect nearby quality of life. Gas prices check: GasBuddy reported Wisconsin price dips around late June, with several county-by-county “lowest” picks for regular, midgrade, E15, diesel, and E85.

Data Center Noise Lawsuit: Racine County residents filed a proposed class-action against Microsoft over alleged constant noise from its Fairwater AI data center in Mount Pleasant, arguing the “AI superfactory” is disrupting nearby homes. Summer Safety on the Water: Lake Geneva declared a state of emergency after a sudden storm led to a boat capsizing that killed three children and left seven others rescued; officials stressed life jackets and watching fast-changing weather. Holiday Travel Watch: AAA reports about 1.6 million Wisconsinites are expected to travel over the 4th of July weekend, with gas prices easing—Wisconsin regular around $3.59 and diesel about $4.63 as drivers head out. Milwaukee Crash Update: A 28-year-old is in custody after a deadly Milwaukee crash near Appleton Ave. and Congress St.; a 27-year-old died at the scene as police investigate. Milwaukee Trails Getaway: A guide highlights top paved, multi-use trails in the Milwaukee area—like the Oak Leaf and Hank Aaron—ideal for walking, biking, and skating during summer.

Boating Safety & Storm Response: A powerful storm over Walworth County turned Geneva Lake deadly on Friday, with three people confirmed dead and seven rescued after a recreational boat capsized; officials say downed trees and power lines slowed response, and a joint investigation is underway with the Wisconsin DNR. Local Legal Watch: Sturtevant residents have filed a class-action lawsuit against Microsoft over alleged noise from the company’s Fairwater data center—an issue that could affect nearby lodging and tourism plans. Travel Disruption: Milwaukee-area weather and holiday traffic remain a concern as severe storms and power outages hit the region, with officials urging people to avoid downed lines and storm-damaged areas. Independence Day Travel Culture: Cuba City, Wisconsin is leaning into America’s 250th with its “City of Presidents” Main Street decorations, a tradition that draws visitors during the holiday season. Family Fun & Animals: The Beagle Alliance in Anola is welcoming former research beagles into foster homes, a feel-good reminder for Wisconsin families looking for low-stress summer outings.

Severe Weather & Boating Safety: A fast-moving storm hit the Lake Geneva area during the busy Fourth of July weekend, prompting a Lake Geneva state of emergency after “widespread damage.” Three people died and seven were rescued after a boat capsized on Geneva Lake as authorities warned residents to avoid downed lines and damaged areas while crews restored power and cleared roads. Power & Travel Disruptions: In southeast Wisconsin, outages surged—We Energies reported nearly 34,000 customers without power, with the hardest hit areas including Racine, Kenosha, Milwaukee and Walworth counties—plus blocked roads from fallen trees and lines. Holiday Storm Watch: Another round of storms remained possible into the holiday weekend, with First Alert Days for southern Wisconsin as heavy downpours raised flash-flood concerns. Firework Safety: ReadyWisconsin urged responsible Independence Day celebrations, citing hundreds of Wisconsin ER visits for fireworks injuries in early July and reminding families to follow local rules and keep kids away from fireworks. Health Alert for Travelers: CDC-linked reports of cyclospora (“explosive” diarrhea) continued to spread across multiple states, including Wisconsin, with officials urging careful produce washing and attention to symptoms. Local Tourism Spotlight: Tomahawk says Independence Day visitors are arriving earlier than usual, with a packed five-day lineup and strong vendor turnout.