UPDATED 7:45p
Kenosha---Although it may not please the transgender community, a proposed Kenosha Unified policy on transgender student bathroom use is a fence-sitting move designed to keep the district out of legal trouble. The policy—as recommended for approval Tuesday night by a school board committee—neither allows or disallows transgender students to use the bathroom of their choice. Instead, it calls for students to meet first with counselors. The policy, if approved by the full board, would codify current practice. It’s purposely vague because the definitive word on the issue has yet to come from the courts.
Kenosha---Just one company has answered the city's call for bids to replace the deteriorating surface at the Dream Playground. Bluemel's Inc. of Greenfield submitted a bid of just over $487,000. Installing a longer-lasting surface would boost the total to $589,000. While expressing disappointment that only one bid was received, Mayor Antaramian indicated Tuesday that the offer appears to be feasible, and that the city is in the process of reworking its budget to cover the unanticipated expense. The matter is expected to go to the city council before the end of the month.The playground was closed earlier this year after the problems were uncovered. Discussions with the original contractor are continuing.
Kenosha---A memorial service for the part-time Town of Salem officer who died in a crash while on duty will be held Thursday morning in the Conference Center at Gateway Technical College. 33 year-old Michael Ventura's squad car left Highway 50 Friday and overturned. Although witnesses said his emergency lights had been on at the time of the crash, it's unclear whether Ventura had been trying to pull someone over or was responding to some type of emergency. Ventura had been on the job less than two weeks. He had graduated just last May from Gateway's law enforcement academy, a basic training course that represents the final step for recruits who've already been hired by an agency. Ventura had served as president of his class.
Racine---The Interfaith Coalition will hold a prayer vigil Wednesday evening in memory of the slain Dallas police officers. The event will take place at 6 p.m. on Monument Square. The public is invited.
Racine---A chain reaction led to a kitchen fire Tuesday afternoon. Power lines that fell on top of a garage at 3415 Erie St. came in contact with the property's electrical system, touching off a fire within the walls of the kitchen of the unattached house. There were no injuries but damage was estimated at $30,000. Because of the excessive heat, the Racine Fire Bells responded to keep firefighters hydrated.
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