AGP Executive Report

Milwaukee Police: An officer was struck by a fleeing driver early Sunday near Water and Knapp after shots were fired in the downtown entertainment district; the 18-year-old suspect was later found and arrested, and officers involved were placed on administrative duty. Brewers Baseball: Eduardo Rodriguez, newly named to the All-Star Game, is set to start the deciding game of Milwaukee’s series vs. Arizona on Sunday afternoon in Phoenix. Racine Theater: Over Our Head Players debuts Amy Hanson’s new drama “The Good One” July 24–Aug. 2 at the Sixth Street Theatre, tackling addiction, family secrets, and hard choices. America 250 Spotlight: Summerfest’s final night on July 4 included fireworks and a special American 250 salute, with attendees leaving video messages in “Our American Story.” Wisconsin Weather: Humidity eases with dry, comfortable days ahead, with a better rain/thunder chance midweek into Thursday.

MLB All-Star Buzz (Wisconsin ties): The 2026 All-Star rosters are set for Philly, and Wisconsin fans get plenty to watch—Milwaukee’s Jacob Misiorowski is among the NL strikeout standouts, while the Brewers’ “The Miz” (Brandon Woodruff) and catcher William Contreras are highlighted as key names heading to the Midsummer Classic. Brewers Injury Update: Brandon Woodruff exited early again on July 4 with an apparent shoulder issue after velocity dipped, and Milwaukee fell 4-3 to Arizona despite a Yelich homer and missed chances with runners on base. America 250, Wisconsin-style: Madison’s Capitol Square hosted a patriotic Independence Day concert and special veterans museum tours, while Green Bay’s “Fire over the Fox” drew big crowds for America’s 250th celebration. Holiday Safety/Weather: A fast-moving storm on Geneva Lake led to three children dead and seven rescued after a boat capsized. Local Arts & Culture: PBS Wisconsin’s “Here & Now” marked the holiday with a look at Wisconsin’s political races and reflections tied to the end of an era for Schlitz beer. Lottery Numbers: Powerball hit an estimated $396M jackpot for July 4; winning numbers were 17-38-46-50-69 with Powerball 20.

4th of July Storm Fallout: A powerful storm hit Lake Geneva, where three people died and seven were rescued after a boat capsized; officials reported downed trees, power lines, and damage across Walworth County, with a state of emergency declared. Independence Day Safety: Wisconsin DNR is urging ATV/UTV riders to ride sober this holiday weekend, citing alcohol and speed as major factors in past crashes and fatalities. Milwaukee Summerfest Picks: Summerfest’s Saturday finale gets a music-heavy spotlight, with recommendations ranging from local pop-rock to Americana headliners. Wisconsin Originals: Houdini’s Wisconsin roots are back in focus, tracing his family’s move from Appleton to Milwaukee and his rise as the “Handcuff King.” Arts & Community: Children’s Theater of Madison is expanding “social prescribing” work, using arts participation to support mental health and community wellbeing. Sports Spotlight: The Brewers’ late-inning win over the Diamondbacks keeps the baseball buzz going as Milwaukee’s holiday weekend heats up.

Independence Day & Wisconsin Independence: WalletHub ranks Wisconsin 8th for “independence,” with the state also posting the fourth-highest median credit score—an angle showing how financial freedom is part of the 250th birthday conversation. Holiday Safety: A severe storm system hit Walworth County and Lake Geneva, where a boat capsized; three people died and seven were rescued. America 250 in Milwaukee: A Milwaukee tour at the historic Pabst Brewery ties beer history to the national celebration, including a new exhibit of model ships. Local Sports Spotlight: Madison Mallards teammates Aiden Arnett and Preston Yaucher reunited after growing up together, bringing a hometown feel to the Northwoods League. Baseball Watch: The Brewers open a road stretch with a Diamondbacks series, with games streaming on Apple TV+ and Peacock. Music & Community: Avery Anna’s “Girl of Constant Sorrow Tour” stopped at Rave in Milwaukee, mixing country pride with big singalongs.

NBA Rule Watch: The league is testing a faster “one free throw rule” at Summer League this month, with standard free throws returning in the final two minutes and overtime—another sign the minors keep shaping the NBA. Milwaukee Sports & Music: Milwaukee’s Summerfest Friday picks spotlight local talent and big names, while the Brewers’ July 3 matchup vs. Arizona is Apple TV–exclusive. Wisconsin Arts & Community: Uptown Social in Sheboygan is launching a dementia-friendly choir honoring Lakeland professor Janet L. Herrick, and Spring Street Gallery hosts a father-daughter exhibition at Spring Street Gallery. Independence Day in Wisconsin: Milwaukee County’s second annual drone show is set for tonight, and a Milwaukee teacher’s America 250 lesson plan is bringing history to life for young students. Public Safety: A 14-year-old drowned at Sandy Beach Park in Lake Mills, with police noting no flotation device. Tech & Local Life: Milwaukee’s Plan Commission delayed a Midtown Walmart redevelopment after backlash over a proposed “computational research facility.”

NBA Trade Talk: Jaylen Brown says he’s “still processing” the Celtics’ blockbuster deal to the 76ers for Paul George and draft picks—“excited and disappointed” as his Boston era ends. Brewers Baseball: Milwaukee’s Garrett Mitchell goes 4-for-4 in a 4-2 win over Cincinnati, while Jacob Misiorowski’s start keeps the series momentum rolling; Misiorowski also says he’s unlikely to pitch the All-Star Game. Milwaukee Arts & Community: Giannis Antetokounmpo’s downtown mural was vandalized, then quickly restored by the artist. Local Safety & Policy: Milwaukee leaders advance higher fines for illegal sidewalk scooter riding after serious crashes. Environment Watch: Wisconsin DNR investigates dead birds reported on Milwaukee’s north side. 4th of July Guide: Summerfest’s final weekend kicks off Thursday with Muse headlining, plus drone shows and fireworks across the metro for America’s 250th. Sports/School Spotlight: UWL swimming and diving earn CSCAA Scholar All-America honors.

Milwaukee Rep Casting Call: The Milwaukee Repertory Theater is seeking performers ages 8–13 for “A Christmas Carol,” with auditions July 11 (noon–5 p.m.) at 108 E. Wells St. and rehearsals after school/weekends Nov. 6–28, running through Dec. 24 at the Pabst Theater. Public Radio Shake-Up: Wisconsin Public Radio is preparing a gentle transition after Larry Meiller’s long-running midday show ends June 30—Lee Rayburn will take the 11 a.m.–1 p.m. slot starting July 6, while Jill Nadeau continues hosting “Garden Talk” on Fridays. Community Music for Memory Care: Friends of Uptown Social in Sheboygan won a $5,000 Giving Voice grant to launch the Janet L. Herrick Dementia-Friendly Choir, rehearsing Thursdays starting Sept. 10 with a free community concert Nov. 20. Milwaukee Arts Spotlight: Milwaukee honored Bob Uecker with an 80x100-foot downtown mural, adding to his long-running local legacy. Immigration Tensions in Milwaukee: A July 1 protest drew 150+ people at Kosciuszko Park against increased ICE activity, while federal prosecutors urged a “serious sentence” for Hannah Dugan in an ICE obstruction case. Heat & Travel Plans: Extreme heat and storm chances continue across southern Wisconsin, and construction is set to begin soon on the state’s first Buc-ee’s in Oak Creek.

NBA Blockbuster: The Boston Celtics agreed to trade Jaylen Brown to the Philadelphia 76ers for Paul George plus draft capital, ending Brown’s 10-year run in Boston and reshaping the Eastern Conference. Wisconsin Sports Spotlight: Milwaukee’s Garrett Mitchell powered a 4-for-4 night with a go-ahead triple as the Brewers beat the Reds 4-2, while another Brewers win over Cincinnati earlier in the week kept the momentum rolling. Local Arts & Community: Madison’s International Hyperbarics Association is staging its first benefit concert, “Harmonies for Hope,” featuring LeAnn Rimes on July 10. Family Fun in Wisconsin Rapids: The Boys and Girls Club’s 10-week “Wonderful Rapids” summer program is underway, mixing learning, STEM, arts, and daily activities for 300+ youth. Public Art Update: A downtown Milwaukee mural honoring Bucks legend Giannis Antetokounmpo was vandalized, with the artist restoring the work. Sports Betting Court News: Former NBA player Malik Beasley pleaded not guilty in federal court over alleged 2024 game-fixing tied to sports bettors. Powerball: Wednesday’s Powerball numbers were 2, 6, 26, 39, 68 with Powerball 6; jackpot estimated at $375M.

UW-Madison Athletics: Shawn Eichorst, a Wisconsin native and UW-Whitewater alum, has been named the Badgers’ new director of athletics, with former Bo Ryan praising his calm, player-first leadership. NBA Buzz: LeBron James says he’s leaving the Lakers and will play a 24th season elsewhere, while Kawhi Leonard is reportedly headed back to Toronto in a major trade. Summerfest & Heat Safety: Summerfest eases its water bottle carry-in rules for July 2-3 and expands cooling options as extreme heat continues. Arts & Community: Oak Park Festival Theatre is trying rotating repertory for the first time in its history, running Hamlet and The Importance of Being Earnest on alternating nights. Patriotism at 250: Milwaukee’s Summerfest is spotlighted as an official anchor for America’s Block Party tied to the U.S. semiquincentennial. Local Sports/Entertainment: Sweet Spot Golf Club turns a West Allis warehouse into an indoor golf hangout aimed at making the sport feel less intimidating. Food & Policy: DOJ and states reach a settlement with major egg producers over alleged price-fixing, with donations of millions of eggs to food banks.

NBA & Wisconsin Sports Buzz: Kawhi Leonard is reportedly headed back to the Toronto Raptors in a blockbuster deal with the Clippers, while the NBA Cup final is set for Dec. 11 at Indianapolis’ historic Hinkle Fieldhouse—an event that’s sure to pull in basketball fans nationwide. Milwaukee Arts & Baseball Culture: Milwaukee dedicated an 80-by-100-foot downtown mural honoring Brewers legend Bob Uecker, adding to the statues already at American Family Field. Brewers on the Field: Milwaukee kept rolling over the Reds with a 7-2 win, extending a dominant stretch in the rivalry. Streaming Picks: July’s new releases include Prime Video’s “Elle,” Netflix’s “Enola Holmes 3,” and more across major platforms. Food & Community: A multistate egg price-fixing settlement will send 53 million eggs to food banks and nonprofits, including Wisconsin. Local Human Interest: Milwaukee teen Joniah Walker, missing since 2022, has been found safe.

NBA Gambling Fallout: Former Bucks Malik Beasley and Ed Davis were indicted in a federal performance-fixing scheme tied to alleged under/overperformance for bets, with prosecutors pointing to a 2024 Milwaukee game. Milwaukee Heat Safety: Mayor Cavalier Johnson urged residents to use cooling sites as an Extreme Heat Warning continues, with heat indexes near 107 and reminders to check on vulnerable neighbors. Local Sports Leadership: Waunakee High School named Nina Rouse as its new athletic director, bringing experience from Greenfield High School. Wisconsin Athletics Hiring Watch: ESPN reports UW is targeting Shawn Eichorst for athletic director. Arts & Community: Milwaukee’s long-running Airport Lounge strip club closed permanently, with the property now listed for redevelopment near Mitchell International. Food Culture: Cottage cheese is selling out in parts of the U.S. after a TikTok “protein maxxing” trend boosts demand. World Cup in Wisconsin: Madison-area fans are packing watch parties as the U.S. heads into knockout play July 1 vs. Bosnia-Herzegovina.

NBA & Wisconsin Sports: Ja Morant’s Grizzlies run is over—Memphis traded him to the Portland Trail Blazers for Jerami Grant and Kris Murray, a move that reshuffles the league’s point-guard picture and adds more offseason buzz for Wisconsin fans watching the Bucks’ orbit. Milwaukee Independence Day Plans: Milwaukee’s July 3 drone show returns at McKinley Beach (9:15 p.m.), replacing fireworks with 900 drones over 45 minutes, plus family activities and parking details. Brewers Baseball: Joey Ortiz powered a Brewers comeback, launching a two-run homer in the eighth to beat the Reds 5-3 and keep Milwaukee atop the NL Central. Powerball (Wisconsin): A Oneida couple, Tammy and Cliff Webster, claimed about half of a $632.6M Powerball jackpot, taking the cash option for a massive payday. Wisconsin Arts & Community: Indie Under the Stars brings a traveling drive-in format—five short films, audience voting, and filmmaker feedback—to Jefferson County. Public Safety: Southern Wisconsin heat is driving cooling-center use and pool time as families and seniors brace for dangerous temperatures.

Sports & Integrity: Former Milwaukee Bucks forward Malik Beasley and ex-NBA teammate Ed Davis were indicted in a federal betting probe, with prosecutors alleging they manipulated on-court performance using inside prop-bet trends. Local Arts & Community: Eaux Claires Music and Arts Festival is back in Eau Claire after an eight-year break, with Justin Vernon performing as “Bon Dylan” at Carson Park. Music in Milwaukee: Summerfest’s 58th edition returns, with a lineup tilt toward country and the MKE Live Groove spotlighting local Wisconsin acts. Cycling Spotlight: The Tour of America’s Dairyland pro cycling series rolls through Wisconsin, bringing multi-city racing and community events. Family Fun Calendar: Racine Zoo previews its summer lineup, including the Animal Crackers Concert Series and Margaritafest. Health & Daily Life: UW–Madison will temporarily close nearly two dozen buildings due to air-conditioning failures during extreme heat. Public Media: Black Public Radio Network launches to help Black-audience stations grow revenue and sustainability. Ticket Watch: The Brewers host the Reds June 29 at American Family Field—TV and streaming options available.

Extreme Heat Watch: Wisconsin is bracing for a dangerous stretch of days with heat indexes near or above 100°F, with warnings and safety tips urging hydration, cooling breaks, and check-ins on neighbors. Milwaukee Arts & Media: WUWM’s “Behind the Mic” brought two generations of journalists together at UWM, with a lively focus on how AI is reshaping reporting. Local Courts & Justice: JusticePoint says it can keep running Milwaukee Municipal Court alternatives while its lawsuit plays out, after a judge ordered the city to continue paying. Police Surveillance Debate: Privacy advocates are pushing for rules—or bans—around automated license plate readers, citing concerns about misuse and data access. Voting Rights: A federal judge blocked key parts of Trump’s 2026 election overhaul, including centralized citizen lists and expanded USPS control over mail voting. Brewers Community Giving: Brewers players are hosting an emergency relief drive for earthquake victims in Venezuela, with drop-off hours running through July 3. Summerfest Spotlight: Hank Azaria and the EZ Street Band delivered a joyful Bruce Springsteen tribute at Summerfest. Sports (Wisconsin): The Cubs edged the Brewers 4-3 in 10 innings to take the series, while Wisconsin football coach Luke Fickell is leaning on summer relationship-building with new QB Colton Joseph.

Community & Arts: Mead Library is running a summer homesteading workshop series with hands-on sessions on naturalized landscape design, seed starting, and beekeeping (Thursdays July 23–Aug. 27; registration required). Local Weather: Milwaukee and southeast Wisconsin are heading into a hot, humid stretch with an extreme heat watch Monday into Tuesday, plus storm chances that could bring brief relief. Public Safety & Health Policy: A New York state senator urged Wisconsin to “proceed with caution” as Wisconsin considers a Medicaid long-term care vendor change tied to a New York DOJ lawsuit. Arts & Culture Events: Grand Geneva Resort in Lake Geneva debuts adults-only “Tavern 1776” through Aug. 2, pairing patriotic dining and cocktails with live entertainment for America’s 250th. Sports (Brewers/Cubs): The Cubs beat the Brewers 8-2 Saturday, with David Peterson’s first start as a Cub including a first-batter homer allowed; Sunday’s rubber match has Brandon Woodruff back for Milwaukee. Human Interest: A Wisconsin journalist, Shelly Kittleson, was reported kidnapped in Baghdad, with Sen. Tammy Baldwin pushing for her return.

Milwaukee Arts & Community: Brady Street leaders launched a six-week summer safety pilot after two shootings left one dead and three wounded, aiming to curb reckless driving, loud music, loitering and underage drinking. Beer & Local Culture: Wisconsin Brewing Company in Verona held a farewell for Schlitz before the brand goes on hiatus, with a 1948-recipe release event, food and live music. Music Spotlight: Post Malone stopped by a Milwaukee barber shop ahead of his Summerfest performance. Sports (Wisconsin): The Cubs beat the Brewers 8-2 at American Family Field as Ian Happ homered and Milwaukee’s bullpen concerns linger beyond the top arms. Hockey Coaching: Scott Davidson was hired as an assistant coach for the Atlanta Gladiators, the ECHL affiliate tied to Milwaukee’s hockey pipeline. Arts & Hobbies: Lodi artist Greg Marshall brings an autobiographical hip-hop storytelling show to Milwaukee’s Vivarium Theater. Family-Friendly Events: Green Lake’s Party on the Pond kicks off July 4 weekend with live music and food by the water.