Elections Commission to review fraud and felon voting (MADISON)
The Wisconsin Elections Commission is reviewing election fraud. Thursday’s meeting agenda includes a yearly update on illegal voting and elections violations. Reports compiled by WEC staff show that a very small number of votes cast in the last dozen elections have been from felons or have had substantiated fraud claims. The highest total was in the 2020 general election with around 150 felons voting and even fewer cases of fraud with nearly 3 point 3 million votes cast. The report will be sent to the legislature’s elections committees for review in the next session.
Literacy expert concerned about childhood reading levels (UNDATED)
A University of Wisconsin literacy expert says falling behind in reading can affect a student’s performance across the classroom. UW–Madison professor Mark Seidenberg says reading becomes a bigger part of learning as children move through school, and struggling readers often have a harder time keeping up in other subjects. He also says parents can help by spending more time talking and reading with their children. Seidenberg adds that while artificial intelligence may change how people access information, strong literacy skills will remain essential.
Waterfront property owners encouraged to check shoreline health (UNDATED)
Waterfront property owners are encouraged to check the health of their shorelines. The Score My Shore online tool helps lake and riverfront residents identify ways to improve water quality, wildlife habitat, and shoreline protection. According to the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, simple steps like planting native vegetation, reducing mowing near the water, and redirecting runoff can make a big difference. The DNR says protecting shorelines is a shared responsibility, and even small improvements by neighboring property owners can have lasting benefits for Wisconsin’s lakes and rivers.
Borealis rail service hits milestone (UNDATED)
Amtrak’s Borealis rail service passes a major milestone. According to Amtrak, more than 500,000 riders have used the Borealis between St. Paul and Chicago since the route launched in May 2024. Wisconsin Transportation Secretary Kristina Boardman says the milestone shows the service is a reliable and popular travel option across the state and beyond. Amtrak also reports more than 2.2 million passengers have traveled the corridor overall and plans to add a fourth passenger car to the Borealis train in the coming weeks to meet growing demand. The Borealis makes eight stops across Wisconsin.