AGP Executive Report

Kidnapping Update: Juneau County authorities say mother Carrie Murphy and son Atlas Kleiser have been found safe after a custody-ordered handoff went wrong, ending a multi-county search. Air Service: Allegiant is launching seven new nonstop routes from Florida starting Oct. 1–2, adding more options for Wisconsin travelers heading to the Sunshine State. Lodging & Tourism: Choice Hotels expands its upscale footprint with two Cambria openings and four Ascend Collection properties, including a new Fairway Inn & Suites in Mishicot, Wisconsin. Outdoor & Travel Planning: DATCP is accepting applications for Wisconsin Export Expansion Grants through Nov. 4, supporting ag and food groups that help keep Wisconsin’s tourism-and-trade story growing. Local Development: Marinette County board approved up to $10,000 for a Design Wisconsin campus study for the former UW campus. Sports Tourism: The Brewers open as favorites in the NLDS vs. the Padres, with Milwaukee set to host the series. Cyber Safety: Wisconsin agencies kick off Cybersecurity Awareness Month with tips for safer everyday online use.

Wisconsin Travel & Safety: Wisconsin’s updated fire code rules now tighten how fire and smoke dampers are inspected and tested in commercial buildings, including requiring the work be done by credentialed technicians—worth flagging for hotels, hospitals, and other large properties. Milwaukee Events & Travel Planning: The Milwaukee Lakefront Marathon and 5K are set for this weekend, with Sunday street closures starting as early as 4 a.m. and packet pickup at the Baird Center. Big-Stage Wisconsin Pride: UW–Eau Claire’s Blugold Marching Band earned an invitation to march in the 2027 Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. Outdoor & Trail News: Wisconsin Rapids approved an ATV/UTV road-access ordinance, letting riders travel through most city streets (with exceptions for certain state highways). Nature & Family Travel: Wisconsin’s measles outbreak has surpassed 200 cases, with health officials urging protection—important for travelers planning school and family activities. Tourism & Community: Erie’s Bayfront was named a finalist in a Great Lakes tourism contest, highlighting waterfront recreation and maritime history.

Immigration & Civil Rights: A U.S. judge ruled Salah Sarsour, president of Milwaukee’s Islamic Society, can be deported under a Trump-era law tied to Palestinian-rights advocacy; his lawyers have 60 days to argue he’d face torture. Public Health: Wisconsin reports 192 confirmed measles cases, with 191 among unvaccinated people, but no confirmed Northwoods cases yet—an urgent reminder for travelers and families to check vaccination status. Local Land Use: A neighboring landowner appealed Lafayette County’s approval for a new livestock facility near Mineral Point; residents within two miles can submit statements of position until Oct. 30. Milwaukee Travel & Culture: Visit Milwaukee launched the Brew City Trail with 50+ stops across Milwaukee and nearby counties, linking breweries, beer gardens, historic sites, and places to stay. Family-Friendly Events: Riverwest Ghost Walk returns Oct. 2–Nov. 1 with 20 self-guided stops and QR-coded audio stories. Outdoor & Conservation: Hunters are reminded that deer management unit rules changed in 2025—confirm the correct DMU before permits and registration.

Drone Rules Fight: A coalition of 15 states, including Wisconsin, sued the FAA over its environmental review for expanded commercial drone package delivery, arguing the agency didn’t properly assess safety and environmental impacts. Rail Travel: Amtrak’s Borealis line (Chicago–Twin Cities) topped 500,000 riders, with Wisconsin stops including Milwaukee, Wisconsin Dells, and La Crosse; Amtrak plans to add a fourth car soon. Madison Tourism: Madison and Dane County welcomed more than 9 million visitors in 2025, generating over $1.6 billion and boosting local businesses. Fall Colors: Travel Wisconsin reports Green Bay area foliage is about 20% toward peak, expected in the fourth week of October. Hotels: Choice Hotels announced six new Wisconsin-area openings under Cambria and Ascend brands, including a new Ascend property in Mishicot. Outdoors & Water: Eau Claire River Watershed Coalition is seeking public input to update its watershed plan, focusing on phosphorus, sediment, and impaired waters. Public Health: Wisconsin measles cases climbed past 200, with southwest counties driving most infections. Local Events: World Dairy Expo returns to Dane County’s Alliant Energy Center Sept. 29–Oct. 2, drawing global visitors.

World Dairy Expo: Dane County Executive Melissa Agard welcomed back World Dairy Expo to the Alliant Energy Center, Sept. 29–Oct. 2, a major draw for hotels, restaurants and tourism. Tourism & Food Wine: Door County wineries are pushing a new “Ledge Blanc” dry white standard—an easy reason to plan a fall tasting trip. Public Lands & Parks: The DNR unveiled the 2027 State Park and Forest admission pass design, featuring a Wisconsin camping scene; a Delavan-Darien student won, with a Rhinelander student earning honorable mention. Travel Safety: Edgar is installing solar-powered pedestrian crossing lights (RRFBs) near schools to make walking routes safer. Outdoor & Hunting: An outdoors journal entry highlights a canoe-and-bow hunt in Chippewa River floodplain forest—more proof Wisconsin’s backcountry is still a top draw. Health Watch: Wisconsin measles cases rose to 192, with guidance from ThedaCare for travelers and residents. Local Travel Economy: Lincoln County’s 3-year “Discover Wisconsin” partnership report says broadcast viewership topped 10M, with strong out-of-state interest. Transportation Costs: GasBuddy updates show some of the lowest regional prices, including Oneida County regular at $4.14/gal (week ending Sept. 19).

Amtrak Rail Milestone: Amtrak’s Borealis service hit 500,000 riders since launching in May 2024, with Wisconsin, Minnesota and Illinois touting strong demand for affordable, comfortable travel between St. Paul and Chicago. Madison Tourism Boost: Destination Madison reports more than 9 million visitors last year, fueling $1.6 billion in spending and 19,000+ jobs, with growing interest in lakes, bike trails, and neighborhoods beyond the usual downtown stops. Outdoor Fall Plans: The Ice Age Trail Alliance’s Mammoth Hike Challenge returns in October, inviting people to hike, walk, run, backpack or rack up 46 miles and visit Ice Age Trail Communities like Rice Lake, Weyerhaeuser and Cumberland/Barronett. Local Land & Forest Watch: Residents in Eau Claire County pushed back on a landfill company’s bid to buy 120 acres of county forest, arguing it threatens habitat, water and recreation. Gas Prices: GasBuddy data shows midgrade and diesel pricing staying volatile across Wisconsin, with Dane County midgrade hitting a low of $4.06 and diesel lows reported in multiple counties. Safety on the Road: A new work-zone driver safety initiative from Hoffman Construction urges motorists to slow down and stay alert around crews.

Amtrak Milestone for Wisconsin Travelers: Amtrak says the Borealis has topped 500,000 riders since daily service began in May 2024, with more than 2.2 million passengers overall on the St. Paul–Chicago corridor since May 21, 2024—stopping in Milwaukee and the Wisconsin Dells. Tourism & Culture Grant: The Sheboygan Film Festival received a $21,850 Joint Effort Marketing Grant from the Wisconsin Department of Tourism to expand ads and sponsorships and reach new audiences. Outdoor Conservation: The Wisconsin DNR won approval to buy a conservation easement on nearly 1,800 acres of Langlade County forest, protecting land tied to the Ice Age National Scenic Trail. Arts in Milwaukee: The Milwaukee Art Museum opened “The Shakers: A World in the Making,” pairing 150+ historic Shaker objects with contemporary installations through Jan. 31, 2027. Resort Update (Wisconsin Dells): Kickapoo Roofing began a 3,300-square-foot roof replacement at Glacier Canyon Lodge in Wilderness Resort, expected to finish in December 2026. Local Safety/Travel Impact: Jefferson County EMS leaders discussed shifting staffing and funding toward a countywide system, including possible levy-limit changes.

Apostle Islands tourism debate: A federal bill by Rep. Tom Tiffany would redesignate the Apostle Islands from a national lakeshore to a national park, and local governments plus the Red Cliff Band of Lake Superior Chippewa are pushing back over impacts to sacred homelands and visitor pressure. Forest wellness in Wisconsin: WPR highlights Wisconsin’s first certified forest bathing trail in Eagle River, where guided walks are drawing people looking for a nature reset. Milwaukee brewing tourism: Visit Milwaukee launched the Brew City Trail, a new regional experience linking breweries, beer gardens, and historic stops for visitors and locals. Invasive species outdoors: Fort McCoy says targeted goat grazing is helping curb invasive plants, part of a broader multi-method land management approach. Recovery campus plan: In St. Croix Falls, organizers are turning a former hospital into a behavioral healthcare and recovery campus, aiming to expand treatment locally. Travel-adjacent infrastructure: Line 5 construction in northern Wisconsin continues with large crews and community-focused efforts, including donations for a local food shelf.

Measles Watch: Wisconsin health officials say confirmed measles cases have climbed to 192 statewide, with the biggest outbreak in southwestern Wisconsin and additional cases in northern and central counties, including one Chippewa County case tied to travel—DHS urges residents to check MMR records and seek care if exposed. Brewers Postseason Prep: Milwaukee is weighing Dustin May’s role after his three-inning outing vs. St. Louis, with pitching decisions set to hinge on health and recent form. Gas Prices Check: GasBuddy reports show bargain fuel pockets across the state, including $3.99 E15 in Eau Claire County and $3.69 E15 in Rock County, plus regular gas lows like $3.87 in Sheboygan County—useful for road-trip planning. Milwaukee Event Buzz: The World Oddities Expo brought sold-out rat taxidermy classes and unusual vendor booths to the Baird Center. Racine Fall Fun: Racine Zoo’s Jack O’ Lantern Nights runs Oct. 1-31, and the Racine Art Museum will host “Accidentally Wes Anderson: Adventures in Wisconsin” Feb. 24–June 13, 2027.

College Football (Wisconsin): Wisconsin pulled off a late comeback to stun No. 13 Penn State 24-20 in the Badgers’ Big Ten opener, breaking a long losing streak at Beaver Stadium and setting up a big momentum swing for the season. Milwaukee Community: A Milwaukee mother is demanding justice after her 16-year-old son was fatally shot on the city’s south side; prosecutors say a classmate followed him off a bus and remains on the run. Local Sports (Hockey): The Milwaukee Admirals fell 3-2 to the Rockford IceHogs in preseason action, with the team set to finish its preseason trip before the Oct. 10 home opener. Travel & Tourism (Fall Fun): Iron Mountain’s Oktoberfest drew visitors from across state lines, with family activities, traditional food, and polka music. Outdoor/Conservation: The DNR is urging smarter firewood sourcing and protecting Wisconsin’s woods as fall public lands events and forest-focused programming ramp up. Gas Prices Watch: GasBuddy reported the lowest midgrade and diesel deals in multiple counties this week, with prices varying sharply by area.

Stargazing & Fall Travel: Tonight’s Harvest Moon peaks just days after the fall equinox, giving Wisconsin skywatchers an easy, naked-eye celestial show to pair with a late-evening drive or park visit. Local Outdoors & Youth Camps: Friends of Camp Bird held Camp Bird Appreciation Day in Crivitz, spotlighting the camp’s long-running nature programs for generations of youth. Gas Prices Watch: Week ending Sept. 19 brought a mix of deals—Kenosha midgrade hit $4.04, Outagamie regular dipped to $3.79, and Vernon diesel was as low as $5.99—useful for planning road trips and weekend getaways. Milwaukee Safety Update: Two men convicted in a Milwaukee hit-and-run that killed an EMT were sentenced to prison, a reminder to slow down and stay alert on city streets. Sports & Weekend Plans: Michigan State men’s soccer beat Wisconsin 3-0, and Wisconsin’s fall sports calendar stays packed with games and TV listings for the Sept. 26–28 weekend.

Fall Travel & Outdoors: The Ice Age Trail Alliance’s Mammoth Hike Challenge runs all October, inviting hikers, walkers, runners and backpackers to log 46 miles and visit 3 Ice Age Trail communities—plus a certificate and limited-edition patch for finishers. Family-Friendly Attractions: Wausau’s Children’s Imaginarium debuts “Nature Cat: Backyard and Beyond,” a hands-on nature exhibit with free admission Sept. 26 for Worldwide Day of Play. Scenic Views: Rib Mountain State Park is offering fall scenic chairlift rides Sept. 25–Oct. 25, with riders able to explore at the top. Milwaukee Events: Doors Open Milwaukee returns Sept. 26–27 with nearly 200 sites, including the Pfister Hotel, Pabst Brewery and more neighborhood stops. Local Community & Housing: Tomahawk breaks ground on a new 72-unit apartment complex aimed at easing rental pressure. Health Watch: Wisconsin’s measles outbreak continues to grow, with 21 more cases reported recently and the state nearing 200 total cases in 2026.

Wisconsin DNR Public Lands Day: The DNR is inviting people to get outdoors Saturday, Sept. 26 for National Public Lands Day, with a focus on volunteering and enjoying Wisconsin’s parks, forests, trails, and other public recreation areas. Milwaukee Tourism Leadership Shakeup: The Wisconsin Center District named Milwaukee restaurateur Omar Shaikh as board chair and Visit Milwaukee CEO Peggy Williams-Smith as interim president and CEO starting Oct. 1, following the dismissal of former leader Marty Brooks. Historic Underwater Find: Wisconsin is celebrating the Frank D. Barker shipwreck being added as the 100th shipwreck on the State Register of Historic Places, highlighting WisHistory’s underwater archaeology work. Travel Ideas on the Water: A new travel feature spotlights Lake Pepin as a scenic loop-trip destination between Minnesota and Wisconsin’s Great River Road towns. Road-Trip Safety Reminder: Railroad Safety Week urges drivers and pedestrians to use crossings properly and never stop on tracks, noting Wisconsin’s many preventable rail incidents. Fuel Watch: GasBuddy reports show E85 and other fuel prices varying by county across Wisconsin, with several low-price spots noted for the week ending Sept. 19.

Autumn Travel Spotlight: Wisconsin’s fall draw gets a national boost as the 60th Autumn Leaves Festival heads into October after USA TODAY ranked it the No. 2 best fall festival in the country. Family-Friendly Outdoor News: The Wisconsin DNR’s 2027 State Park and Forest vehicle admission pass design contest spotlights young artists, with Rice Lake students earning honorable mentions. Conservation & Camping Tips: The Wisconsin DNR is urging visitors to “Buy Local, Burn Local” for firewood to help stop invasive pests from hitchhiking into new areas. Local Mobility Rules: Marinette officials are moving toward new e-bike and scooter regulations, including restricting e-bikes from walking paths. Travel Planning Reality Check: Gas prices remain volatile, with GasBuddy reporting the lowest midgrade and premium deals in select Wisconsin counties for the week ending Sept. 19. Trade & Tourism Context: Wisconsin hit a record $2.13B in food, forestry and agriculture exports in the first half of 2026, a reminder that travel and tourism thrive when the broader economy stays strong.

Public Health: Wisconsin reports more measles cases, including two new Marathon County cases and one in Chippewa County tied to out-of-state travel, with most cases in unvaccinated residents. Road Safety: Wisconsin State Patrol and the Wisconsin School Bus Association launch Operation Safe Stop Week, urging drivers to stop for school buses with red lights flashing. Fall Travel Planning: Travel Wisconsin’s Fall Color Report is live again with an interactive map and volunteer updates across all 72 counties. Local Tourism & Community: Marquette dental student Indira Stefano’s supply drive aims to stock Milwaukee classrooms with backpacks, lunchboxes, and school supplies. City Forestry: Fitchburg is considering a forestry fee for 2027 to fund care for about 15,000 public trees and shift pruning to a faster cycle. Outdoor Recreation: Wisconsin’s Knowles-Nelson Stewardship debate continues, with renewed focus on public access and accountability for conservation spending. Sports & Travel Tie-In: Wisconsin’s soccer and other regional matchups keep drawing crowds as the fall season ramps up.

Fall Foliage Planning: Travel Wisconsin launched its annual Fall Color Tracker, an interactive map with real-time updates from about 100 volunteer reporters across all 72 counties, plus photos, videos, and viewing tips—most Northwoods areas are at roughly 10% to 25% color change with peak expected in the first full week of October. Tourism Funding Oversight: Tomahawk is moving to create a Tourism Commission to guide how its 4% room tax is spent, following state rules that require most revenue to support tourism promotion. Local Travel & Attractions: Milwaukee’s performing arts calendar is packed this weekend, with major theater and live music options plus Fashion Week and Bay View Gallery Night. Outdoor Getaway: A Door County fall trip story highlights the region’s peak-season appeal, from Lake Michigan views and trolley rides to scenic strolling. Public Safety & Privacy: Norfolk, Wisconsin’s city council discussed Flock license-plate reader cameras amid privacy and oversight concerns. Health Watch: Marathon County confirmed two more measles cases, bringing its total to three, with no known public exposures yet.