Waukesha 's Most-Read Stories: 2020 Year In Review

WAUKESHA, WI—If there's one thing to say about 2020, it's that it was a unique year.

While the coronavirus pandemic undoubtedly dominated the headlines this year, other stories caught our readers' attention, including from the updates on the closings and openings of businesses, to local Black Lives Matters rallies and odd crime stories.

Waukesha Patch has also offered stories on how businesses are coping with the pandemic as well as how residents are helping each other.

Before we step into 2021, Patch looked back over 2020 and, using reader input and online data, identified the top stories of 2020:

'Grateful To Still Have My Life', Burn Victim Says In Post

Amber Fuller of Waukesha was walking her dogs in September when she was set on fire. A GoFundMe was set up to help cover medical costs.

A 39-year-old man from Las Vegas, Joel Murn, was charged in the unprovoked attack. Joel Murn is facing six felony charges: first degree intentional homicide, two counts of first degree recklessly endangering safety, arson of building without owner's consent, and two counts of arson of property other than building.

New Waukesha Police Chief Named

Daniel Thompson has been named as the next Chief of Police in Waukesha. Thompson comes to the City of Waukesha after more than 29 years with the City of Milwaukee Police Department where he most recently served as Inspector of Police. He was also on the executive team with the Milwaukee Police Department.

Waukesha Cop's Note On Boy's Grave Provided Comfort, Family Says

Waukesha police Officer Ryan Bukouras left a kind note on the grave of Terrence Holliman Jr., who died in 2005 at the age of 13. "I never knew you but it looks like you left a positive impact on the world. Rest easy young man. I will stop by from time to time to make sure you are all cleaned up," the note said. The Holliman family met in person with Bukouras to thank him.

2020 Waukesha County Fair Canceled Amid Coronavirus Pandemic

The 2020 Waukesha County Fair has been canceled amid coronavirus concerns. News of Waukesha's fair comes a week after the Wisconsin State Fair board said they were canceling this year's fair for similar reasons.

Waukesha 2020 Christmas Parade Canceled Due To Pandemic

The annual Christmas Parade held in downtown Waukesha was canceled. The parade was originally scheduled for Nov. 22.

Waukesha County Exec Paul Farrow Tests Positive For Coronavirus

County Executive Paul Farrow announced he tested positive in October. "As soon as they told me they were feeling ill, I self-quarantined and began working from home to avoid the possibility of spreading the virus in the community," Farrow said.

In July, A day after Waukesha County Executive Paul Farrow said his county would not pursue a mask mandate, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers issued an executive order mandating mask usage across the state. Farrow, back in July, characterized the order as "going too far" but encouraged residents to follow the governor's order.

'Lack Of Concern', Letter Says Of Mask Violations In Waukesha

The mask debate rages on for residents of Wisconsin. A Milwaukee woman took pen to paper to write a letter expressing her frustration over people not wearing a mask. Kelly Hoglund spoke out on "a terrible lack of adherence" to pandemic rules and regulations in the City of Waukesha after a weekend visit.

'I Can't Lose Hope,' Waukesha Man Says After Flags Set On Fire

"I felt targeted," Robert Thelen of Waukesha said about an American flag, a gay pride flag, and a Biden 2020 sign that were torched in August outside his home. A source of hope came unexpectedly in the form of Rep. Scott Allen, who stopped by the Waukesha home. Allen told the family what happened was "very unnecessary." Allen won the Nov. 3 election for state Assembly District 97.

'Offensive And Insulting,' Mom Says Of Birthday Cake

A Milwaukee mother was upset over the depiction of her Black daughter on a birthday cake made by a Waukesha bakery.

"It was basically a face and a bunch of hair. They could have put a star or sprinkles on it," the mom told Patch.

Waukesha Police 'Thankful' For Peaceful Protests Monday

In June, protesters were seen kneeling with uniformed police officers in Waukesha. In one video captured by a participant, Waukesha police were seen elbow bumping and giving protesters hugs as they walked across a controlled intersection. In a post made on Facebook, Waukesha police said they were thankful the demonstrations remained peaceful during the afternoon hours.

Eric Trump Pays Visit To Waukesha Restaurant

Chris Potratz , owner of The Neighbors Bar and Grille in Waukesha was shocked when he heard the restaurant would be getting a visit from Eric Trump, President Donald Trump's son and the executive vice president of the Trump Organization. As a token of appreciation, the Secret Service agent gave him a coin for his hospitality. The restaurant owner said no matter where you lean politically, the experience was surreal.

Mom Of Accused Shooter Gets Standing Ovation At Waukesha Event

The mother of a 17-year-old accused of killing two protesters days after Jacob Blake was shot by police in Kenosha, got a standing ovation at a Waukesha County event in September.

Murf's Closes Waukesha Location After 27 Years

Murf's Frozen Custard and Jumbo Burgers closed its Waukesha location after 27 years.The Waukesha Plan Commission unanimously recommended approval for a conditional use permit for Buddy's Burgers & Custard to go in the location.

Matteo's Italian Ristorante In Waukesha To Close Down Permanently

Matteo's Italian Ristorante, 1608 E. Sunset Dr., in Waukesha announced it is closing after 34 years. Owner Tom Thurner told Patch the decision has nothing to do with the pandemic and that he is selling the property.

Longtime CEO Of La Casa De Esperanza To Leave In March

Anselmo Villarreal, the longtime President and CEO of La Casa de Esperanza, announced that he will become the new leader of the national social justice not-for-profit group known as Southwest Key based in Austin and step down from the top position at the Waukesha non-profit group he has led for nearly 31 years.

Waukesha Alderman Aaron Perry Resigns

Aaron Perry resigned in December. Perry lost to Scott Allen in the race for Wisconsin State Assembly District 97 in the Nov. 3 General Election. He is also facing charges of domestic violence and has been removed from committee assignments after Mayor Shawn Reilly said he wasn't fulfilling his duties as an alderman. A group called Committee to Recall Aaron Perry created a recall campaign against Perry. On its website, the group accused Perry of living outside of District 12.

Beatles Fan To Open British-Themed Pub In Waukesha

A little less argument and more conversation is the vibe a man wants for his soon-to-be British-themed pub and eatery named Let It Be, located at 716 Clinton Street in Waukesha. Dave Meister, of Hartland, felt it was symbolic given the stress, fear, and turmoil the world is currently facing. The pub will be without televisions to encourage patrons to talk with each other.

'Not The Devil's Lettuce,' Waukesha CBD Dispensary Owner Says

Beyond Full Spectrum, 300 W Main St., was nominated for Waukesha Patch's Business of the Year. The owners believe in the potential of holistic options and presenting them to everyday people in a clean, comfortable, no-pressure environment where the top goal is education. The store carries CBD extract in oils, edibles, lotions, coffees, bath bombs, energy drinks, and more.