OSHKOSH – Oshkosh news in January featured a new $84 million hospital opening, viral school‑related controversies, major winter storms and more.
Here’s a look back at The Northwestern’s most-read stories from the first month of 2026.
Oshkosh district probes Russian YouTube video on where ‘losers sit’
The Northwestern was the first to detail a viral YouTube Short video filmed inside Carl Traeger Middle School in which a Russian influencer’s video labeled a section of the cafeteria as where “the losers sit.”
The video prompted concerns from parents and community members about cyberbullying and student privacy, leading to an investigation by Oshkosh Area School District and review by Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction.
Shortly after The Northwestern’s initial reporting, the video was taken down.
Additional videos on the same channel also raised concerns about filming students without permission and potential violations of district policies and privacy laws. Those videos were also removed.
Superintendent’s job targeted as Oshkosh school board OKs staff cuts
The Oshkosh Area School District board narrowly approved more than 40 staff cuts Jan. 14 to address a projected $5.5 million budget deficit, after a dramatic debate in which outgoing board member Kelly DeWitt unsuccessfully pushed to fire Superintendent Bryan Davis.
DeWitt cited concerns over accountability, declining enrollment, financial missteps and administrative raises, but the proposal to terminate Davis failed 5-2.
The approved reductions — driven by enrollment declines and state funding not keeping pace with inflation — aim to stabilize the district’s finances, though officials warned further cuts and a future referendum may be necessary.
’90s rock band Bush coming to Oshkosh Arena
Bush, one of the 1990’s biggest rock bands, will perform at Oshkosh Arena on May 6 as part of its Land of Milk and Honey Tour, supporting its newest album, “I Beat Loneliness.”
The show — the band’s only Wisconsin stop — will also feature performances by Mammoth and rising U.K. duo James and the Cold Gun.
Tickets went on sale Jan. 16 through the Oshkosh Arena Ticketmaster page and website.
Oshkosh’s 2026 reader wish list — Woodman’s, Trader Joe’s & more
Oshkosh residents shared a 2026 wish list calling for new businesses — especially a Woodman’s grocery store — along with popular chains like Trader Joe’s, White Castle and Texas Roadhouse.
Many also voiced interest in Waffle House, Raising Cane’s and more family‑friendly activities, while others emphasized supporting local shops, improving riverfront development and expanding entertainment options.
Oshkosh’s best winter dining spots include Truffle Pig, TJ’s Highland
Our list of Oshkosh’s top winter dining picks spotlight cozy, fireside‑friendly restaurants such as Becket’s, Fox River Brewing Company, Greene’s Pour House, Mineshaft, The Chalice, Truffle Pig and TJ’s Highland Steakhouse.
These spots offer inviting atmospheres, comforting menus and warming features like indoor fireplaces or scenic river views, making them ideal cold‑weather destinations.
Contact Justin Marville at jmarville@usatodayco.com and follow him on X (formerly Twitter) at @justinmarville.
This article originally appeared on Oshkosh Northwestern: Oshkosh news in January topped by viral where ‘losers sit’ video
Reporting by Brandon Reid and Justin Marville, Oshkosh Northwestern / Oshkosh Northwestern
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
