The #3 Seed Racine Case Eagles start the football weekend on WRJN with a WIAA Playoff battle against #2 seed Mukwonago. We’ll have live coverage starting at 6:30 Friday night, with Dick Graceffa on the call. Last week, WRJN listeners heard a classic when Case came back to beat Oconomowoc in the first round of the playoffs. Listen live on the airwaves or find WRJN on the Civic Media app.
Keep the app handy for Saturday night football with the Wisconsin Badgers. College football can be heard through the Civic Media app, with pre-game on WRJN starting at 4:30pm. The Badgers look to bounce back with a Big Ten matchup in Iowa.
You can hear the Green Bay Packers only on the airwaves, 1400AM, 99.9FM in Racine, and 98.1FM in Kenosha. Pre-game for the contest with Detroit starts at 1pm, with Wayne, Larry, Kuhn, and the kick-off at 3:25. After it’s over, stick around for the post-game show, which includes interviews from the podium and the players. Post game runs for roughly two hours after the game ends.
This past weekend, like many of you, I tried to relax and get away from the work grind by getting in front of a television and watching some football. The Green Bay Packers on Sunday to be specific. However, with less than a month away from the election, it’s impossible to get away completely. Certainly when it comes to Congressman Derrick Van Orden.
Derrick Van Orden is not my congressman. I live in the 7th Congressional District, as does everyone who lives in Marathon County. My congressman (and I use the my very loosely) is Tom Tiffany. Derrick Van Orden represents the 3rd Congressional District. The reason why I have to sit through many Derrick Van Orden political commercials, and his oppenent Rebecca Cooke, is because the 3rd District has Portage and Wood County as part of it. The Stevens Point and Wisconsin Rapids media markets are served by TV stations out of Wausau. To get to voters in Point and Rapids the campaigns need to buy spots from Channels 7, 9, 12 and the FOX channel….what number that is I have no idea. So those of us in Marathon County and other counties not in the 3rd get to learn a lot about Van Orden and Cooke.
It wasn’t a surprise I saw many, many political spots when sitting down to watch the Packers face the Rams Sunday. It was expected. I have seen Derrick Van Orden’s “racial dog whistle” spots many times. Maybe I just saw it one time too many yesterday. Recently Van Order had a spot titled “One of Them.” It featured pics of the “liberal elite” such as President Biden, former Speaker Pelosi, Senate majority leader Schumer and California Governor Newsom. None mentioned by name. Then the spot claimed Cooke was “handpicked” to win back the House and “trusted to elect liberal heroes like Mandela Barnes.” Large photo Barnes. Looks darkened. Then they add another black face in House Minority leader Jeffries on the other side of Cooke to finish the spot with the words “she’s one of them.” Disgusting.
The latest Van Orden ad drops the white faces and focuses on linking Cooke strictly to Mandela Barnes. That’s the spot I kept seeing yesterday. It’s more “Us vs. Them”. The kind of stuff we saw over and over again in the 2022 Senate race between Barnes and Senator Ron Johnson. The biggest difference is in 2022 Johnson had the “sense” to let his 3rd party allies put out the most racist and disgusting of the ads, including darkening of the then-Lt. Governor’s picture. The Van Orden spots end with the words “I’m Derrick Van Orden and I approve this message.” Standing next to a bunch of old white guys who look like law enforcement. Nice little kicker there Derrick. He is trying to remind everyone he is “us” standing next to the white guys while Cooke is “them” pictured next to Barnes and Jeffries.
Van Orden isn’t the only GOP candidate ramping up the use of racial language. It goes right to the top. It was reported today that Donald Trump told right wing radio host Hugh Hewitt that you can tell whether migrants are predisposed to committing murder by “their genes.” “We got a lot of bad genes in our country right now,” Trump added. This is 2024. That’s the kind of thing said in the years post-Civic War. Pure racism.
We need stop seeing the media using terms like “sharpening attacks” and other passive language to avoid saying the truth: these are racist attacks on millions of our people. This is not a time to “both sides” what we are seeing and hearing everyday. Over and over again. Even when trying to get away from it all with a football game. It’s dangerous. It needs to stop but if it doesn’t stop it needs to be called what it is.
There are many things in politics that make sense and those that don’t. Earlier this week Donald Trump became the first Republican nominee for President to campaign in Dane County since Bob Dole in 1996. Among the state GOP dignitaries who were there to show their support of the former President were former Governor Scott Walker and 2022 Republican gubernatorial nominee Tim Michels. Senator Ron Johnson is one of Trump’s biggest state supporters. None of those names are surprising. The one state GOP leader that still makes me shake my head for his support of Trump is former four-term Wisconsin Governor Tommy Thompson. Not only does Thompson support Trump but he was the lead speaker introducing Trump this week in Dane County. Tommy even laughed at the call (and insult) Trump gave when he called to tell Tommy to “get the hell off the stage.”
Why? I keep asking why and finding little in my search for answers. Just a couple of weeks ago Civic Media had plenty of coverage from the Cap Times Idea Fest in Madison. Leading political figures were among the many types of folks who spoke at the event. One of which was Tommy Thompson. After reading what he told the audience at Idea Fest I am more confused on why Thompson, at the age of 82, would make one of his last political battles a fight to get Donald Trump back into the White House. In fact, the reasons he put out at Idea Fest make absolutely no sense.
From a story at civicmedia.us that discussed Thompson’s appearance at Idea Fest: “he noted his support for Trump was in part a push to urge his own party to work across the aisle to tackle the serious problems facing Wisconsin and the United States as a whole.” What? If Thompson wants a leader who will urge the current MAGA Republican Party to work across the aisle that person wouldn’t be Donald Trump in any way, shape or form. It’s crazy to think that Trump will change who he is at this late point in his life.
Thompson also, as Civic Media noted in it’s story of the event appearance, “At various points in the evening, Thompson endorsed a range of ideas that might strike the uninitiated as out of character for a Republican.” Some of the ideas Thompson pushed would be laughed out of a MAGA Republican Party meeting. Thompson proposed converting a state prison into a university to give inmates a path to success after incarceration and hiring retired judges to re-try cases within the correctional system with the hope of reducing sentences and freeing people earlier. The GOP and it’s 3rd party allies are putting out disgusting commercials right here in central Wisconsin against 85th Assembly District Democratic nominee Yee Leng Xiong saying he wants to open up all the jailhouse doors to release dangerous criminals. If Yee Leng Xiong made the same proposal as Thompson (which is very much worth consideration) the Republican Party would be spending many thousands of dollars calling him “soft on crime.”
Thompson also finished with a very reasonable statement that would have no favor in Trump’s Republican Party: “There are good ideas from Democrats and good ideas from Republicans,” he said. “In this state and this country … I want you to work as hard as you possibly can for your candidate, Kamala. I’m going to work for my candidate, Donald Trump. But at the end I want to come together because this country has serious, serious problems and we cannot afford to continue to be so partisan and so political that we don’t talk to each other.”
I am still as confused as ever on why Donald Trump is Tommy Thompson’s candidate. Thompson has to know of Trump’s dictatorial tendencies, his racist history, his felony convictions and more. Is it a desperate attempt at relevance? I don’t know. However, I do know that Tommy Thompson has to be held to account for his work, his hard work, to put a dangerous demagogue back in office. Saying he worked with Democrats in the past doesn’t cut it. Thompson is putting party, and maybe himself, above country and it’s a disgrace that should stick to him now and forever.
Throughout Tuesday, like any storm, the winds started to blow harder and harder. At first the thought was “did Mayor Diny really dress up as a DPW employee to move a ballot drop box on a Sunday?” Yep, it really happened and there were pictures and video to prove it. On the surface it appears the mayor has overstepped his bounds in moving the drop box to his office. There are a lot of upset constituents, city hall workers and public officials. There will be plenty of investigation and decisions to be made on what happened on Sunday and much more to be said. However, at this point, I want to talk about a trend I have seen for a while in candidates and officials: hubris.
Self-confidence can be a good thing. It can also lead to problems. Reading some of the mayor’s comments concerning his decision to unilaterally remove the ballot drop box it comes across as a person who has no doubt he thinks he’s right. The mayor also said the people who he talked to don’t like drop boxes. It reminded me of an interview I had a couple of months ago on my program with a Republican candidate for the state assembly where he said everyone he had talked to agreed with his positions. My first thought was “everyone”? There are more than a few things I believe I am correct about. However, I am not delusional enough to think “everyone” agrees with me. It seems as though, in recent years, many on the right are certain of their beliefs and that “everyone” or at least every “real American” agrees with them. Whether Trump, Cory Tomczyk, and even radio personalities it can lead to some dangerous situations thinking you are right about everything.
According to public reports, Mayor Diny did have conversations with the clerk about the drop boxes. Apparently, in the end, the mayor’s suggestions were not heeded and the drop box was not removed. Sometimes you win some, sometimes you lose some right? Not in this case. The mayor decided not to take no for an answer. He “knows” he is right. Hubris. That’s not the way our government works. One point that council president Lisa Rasmussen made really caught my eye. Rasmussen said to the Wausau Pilot and Review: “One concern I have heard from people so far is worry that there could be no accountability for this action, that if any other citizen had done the same thing, they would have been immediately answering to the police, and or facing some consequences.” There has been many examples in recent years where it appears that the rules are different for different people. Whether because of social status, economic status, race or other factors people aren’t treated equally under the law or under the rules of our society. That is a problem.
We will learn more about what happened and whether or not the mayor broke any rules or laws by his actions on Sunday. However, a little less “hubris” and a little more “humbleness” by everyone might go a long way.
Last week, for the second time, a court dismissed a defamation case filed by State Senator Cory Tomczyk against the Wausau Pilot and Review. Last year a Marathon County Circuit Court judge dismissed Tomczyk’s suit and now it’s an appeals panel that told the Mosinee businessman turned state Senator his claims have no merit. Whether this is the end of this sad tale is to be determined as Tomczyk says he will be determining his options after the latest ruling.
If the goal is justice, then this case should be over. If the goal is to bankrupt one of the few journalistic options the people of central Wisconsin has to get information about their governmental representatives and policies then Tomcyzk may keep tilting at this windmill. In the ruling written by appeals judge Lisa Stark it was stated that Tomczyk failed to provide evidence to buttress his claims of “actual malice” and “reckless disregard” in the Pilot’s reporting of Tomczyk using an anti-gay slur during a 2021 meeting where the “Community for All” issue was being discussed.
After becoming a major voice in the “CFA” debate, Tomczyk ran for the state Senate and won the Republican primary over Mosinee mayor Brent Jacobson by positioning himself as a Donald Trump-like MAGA candidate who truly represents the people of the 29th District and then defeated Democrat Bob Look in the very-GOP leaning district. During a joint appearance at UWSP at Wausau in October of 2022 Tomczyk ran as an election denier, comparing our elections to “Putin’s Russia”. He talked about the lack of integrity of the justice system, wanting 2020 protesters jailed while January 6th defendants were just “supporting their candidates”. Talked about the radical policies of Governor Evers and Mayor Rosenberg and the horrible “Democrat” policies and how “average citizens” and “average Americans” hate those policies. “Average Americans” = conservatives. Then called Democrat policies “treasonous” and that Democrats “don’t want law and order and safety. Democrats want chaos. Democrats want confusion. Democrats want instability. They want this so they can they try to convince the ‘sheeple’ that they have the only solution. They can fix the problem. It’s b—s–t.” Can see why he has been continuing this suit for the last couple of years. Don’t cross him.
So on one side there’s a journalist who has covered the news for years in our area. The other is MAGA state Senator who throws verbal bombs at people who are left of him on the political spectrum. The courts have now, multiple times, said his suit has no merit. One would think that a media source, one that claims they believe in “law and order” would see the merit of standing with the Pilot and the courts. Nope, the operations manager/morning show co-host of the right-wing radio station down the street puts out a commentary titled “A Eulogy for American Journalism.” He stands with Tomczyk and against the Pilot. Wow. The people that want to kill American journalism aren’t the ones who won in the courts last year and last week. The costs of this crusade of Tomczyk’s have nearly bankrupted the Pilot, and would have, except for the support of their readers.
I look forward to discussing this case and whole story with Wausau Pilot and Review editor/founder Shereen Siewert later in the week.
A recent poll confirmed that parents and grandparents greatly embarrass their children when they play air guitar. There was a time when playing air instruments was cool. Back in 1984 we had contests to see who the best imaginary players were. I remember being the m.c. for a big contest at Reedsburg High School. They also had a competition for the best ‘flying v kick’ like David Lee Roth from Van Halen. This week in ’84 that group’s song Jump was the number one tune on radio. It was an exciting time to grow up. The social network was the family home phone. Sometimes we were still on a party line. Up to eight families would sometimes be on the same circuit. Long distance rates were cheaper after 6:00 pm. If I wanted to call a young woman from Bear Valley, I had to call late. I needed to coil the long phone cord to the other side of the file cabinet so that I could have a little privacy when I was talking to my lady friend. It was the early years for MTV and pop culture was totally influenced by the styles that we saw on video. There were many British artists that became instant stars because of the 24-hour exposure that the network provided. Some of my faves from March of 1984 include Talking in Your Sleep-Romantics, Back Where You Belong-.38 Special, Middle of the Road-Pretenders, Radio Ga Ga-Queen, Nobody Told Me-John Lennon, They Don’t Know-Tracy Ullman, The Language of Love-Dan Fogelberg, New Moon on Monday-Duran Duran, and That’s All-Genesis.
Saturday night during Those Were the Days, I will be spinning the hits from early 1984 and music from all of the eras that we play. Trivia games return and we will be cranking out the hits until the midnight hour. I hope you enjoyed our archived flashbacks last weekend following local sports. It was great to spend some time with my darling granddaughter, Oaklee, as she turned four. She seems to like vinyl records! Perhaps someday she can cohost Those Were the Days on WRCO FM 100.9 and WRCO.com!
Michael T. Whitty went to his final resting place on Sunday February 22, 2026, at Baraga County Memorial Hospital. He was born on August 14, 1950, to the late Mary Ratchman and Melvin “Butch” Whitty. Although Mike was 75 years young, he lived a full life and a life that was on his terms. He served in the United States Navy, that took him to many places. After that, he’d spent a good portion of his time in Oshkosh, WI. His happiest day was when he met the love of his life, Sharon, who he would often be heard calling her, his, Molly. They would marry in 1984, and spend the next 42 years together, right by one another’s side. One would say they were inseparable. He wouldn’t have had it any other way. He worked for Square D until their closure. At that time, Sharon and Mike would make the decision to sell their home in Oshkosh and permanently move to Baraga, MI. The U.P. was always their home away from home, spending many weekends and more, driving to their beautiful property and spending as much time as possible there. They held many celebrations and gatherings there with family and friends, creating livelong memories. Mike had many interests and hobbies. You could often find him tinkering with something, from saw blades, lawn mowers, fans, and much more. You may have believed it was past its time, but he didn’t. He could bring it back to life. He enjoyed a pork chop or two. Spending countless hours down in his pole barn. One of his top hobbies he enjoyed when he could, was coming back to Oshkosh, and hanging out at the Boathouse with his brother, Mark and many others. Some may have referred to and will remember Mike, as the best White Bass fisherman in Oshkosh. He is survived by his wife, Sharon, his twin brother Mark (Chris) Whitty, stepson Scott (Joan) Schiesl, grandchildren; Sherri (Josh) Wendt, Daniel Haase, Lexii Ashcraft, Chris Schiesl, Sarah (Joe) Schiesl, Rebecca Schiesl, great grandkids; Destiny (Jordan) Gies and Xavier Wendt, great, great grandson; Colby Gies, as well as many nieces and nephews. Besides his parent’s, he is proceeded in death by his daughter, Dawn Ashcraft, siblings; Butch Whitty, Colleen Knott, Karen Whitty, and Cathy Whitty, and one grandson, Nick Schiesl. Per his wishes, there will be no funeral services.
Mike’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.reidfuneralservicechapel.com The Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse has been entrusted with the arrangements.
The last two weeks were so incredible. I had the pleasure of covering the games with twice-daily Olympic updates on our Civic Media radio stations. For most of us, the two weeks of the games are like a vacation. A break from the same-old routine, a break from our typical television viewing habits, and most importantly….a break from the polarization of society. For two weeks, nations came together in the name of sport. Blurring the lines that divide us. Not just internationally, but domestically as well. There was no division, no politics, no underlying agendas, no social barriers. Just the culmination of tons of hard work, and the joy of being recognized and rewarded for a job well done. But, now that the games are over, you might feel a sort-of emptiness inside. That’s the post-Olympic blues, and it’s a real thing. Here’s why many of us feel this way after the games have concluded.
We Get Used to the Excitement
The Olympics are intense. There are constant competitions, emotional stories, medal counts, and big moments every single day. Your brain loves that kind of excitement. It releases chemicals like dopamine — the “feel good” chemical — when something thrilling happens. When the Games end, that steady stream of excitement suddenly stops. It’s a bit like finishing a really great TV series. You go from daily drama and emotion… to nothing. That drop can feel surprisingly empty.
It Becomes Part of Our Routine
For two weeks, watching events might become part of your daily schedule:
Turn on coverage in the morning
Check medal standings at lunch
Watch finals at night
When something becomes part of your routine, your brain expects it. Once it’s gone, you feel the gap. Humans like predictability. When a temporary routine disappears, it can feel like losing something familiar.
We Feel Connected — Then It Stops
The Olympics create a strong sense of connection:
We cheer for our country.
We learn athletes’ personal stories.
We celebrate wins together on social media.
There’s a shared global energy. Even strangers feel united. When it ends, that shared experience fades. The group excitement quiets down. That sudden loss of connection can feel lonely.
We’re Inspired — Then Reality Returns
The Olympics are full of powerful stories:
Comebacks after injury
Underdog victories
Lifelong dreams coming true
For a short time, it feels like anything is possible. Then normal life resumes — work, chores, stress, bills. The contrast between the inspiring Olympic world and everyday life can feel disappointing. It’s not that life is bad. It’s just less dramatic than the Olympics.
Big Emotional Highs Often Have a “Crash”
Any major event — holidays, weddings, vacations — can lead to a small emotional dip afterward. It’s a normal psychological pattern:
Anticipation
Intense experience
Letdown
The bigger the buildup, the bigger the emotional drop afterward. The Olympics have years of buildup and global attention. That makes the emotional shift even stronger.
Is It a Serious Problem?
For most people, post-Olympics blues are mild and temporary. You might feel:
A little bored
A little nostalgic
A bit unmotivated for a few days
Usually, the feeling fades quickly as new routines and interests take over.
What Helps?
If you feel that letdown, here are simple ways to handle it:
Stay inspired – Try a new workout or sport.
Watch highlights – Relive the best moments.
Follow athletes’ journeys – Many continue competing.
Find the next event – World championships and other competitions happen regularly.
Create a new goal – Channel that Olympic motivation into something personal.
The Good News
Feeling a little sad when the Olympics end actually says something positive: you cared. You connected. You were inspired.
That emotional response means the Games did what they’re meant to do — bring people together and make us feel something bigger than ourselves.
And the best part? The next Olympics are always coming.
Madison, WI (February 23, 2026) – Civic Media has launched a revamped News/Talk format for several Wisconsin stations. The Civic Media Network will air on:
WXCO Wausau
WMDX Madison
WAUK Milwaukee
WISS Oshkosh
WZBH Hayward
Three new shows will be included in the daily lineup. “Daybreak with Brian and Jamie” will air 6-9AM Central Time, featuring Jamie Martinson and Brian Noonan. “The Jeff Santos Show” will air from 2-5pm and “Nite Lite With Pete Schwaba and Greg Bach” airs from 5-7PM
Here’s the full broadcast schedule.
Monday – Friday:
5:00 AM – 6:00 AM: “Midwest Farm Report” with Pam Jahnke (select stations)
6:00 AM – 9:00 AM: “Civic Media Mornings” with Brian and Jamie “All News, All Morning” with Dan Hanni (WAUK Milwaukee)
9:00 AM – 11:00 AM: “Stephanie Miller Show” (8am WMDX Madison)
11:00 AM – 2:00 PM: “The Thom Hartmann Program”
2:00 PM – 5:00 PM: “The Jeff Santos Show”
Civic Media Vice President of Product Aaron Carreno said, “We’re excited to refresh our programming with the addition of new radio shows and a continuous stream of digital content that meets audiences wherever they are. This growth reflects our commitment to delivering fresh voices, diverse perspectives, and engaging storytelling across every platform. By strengthening both our on-air and digital presence, we’re creating more opportunities for our community to connect, discover, and stay informed—anytime, anywhere.”
About Civic Media
Civic Media, a public benefit corporation, is dedicated to providing quality broadcast and digital hometown radio focusing on local, regional, and state issues, covering the stories that are most relevant to the markets we serve. We believe radio plays a crucial role in the practice of democracy in our local communities, so we aim to provide programming that advances the understanding and engagement of its principles within our audience.
The radio station that’s been there through every decade, every season, every change Racine has ever seen
WRJN has been that constant voice since 1926. Nearly a century of local news, Timeless Hits, and community connection.
We’ve been here through World War II, the golden age of manufacturing, downtown transformations, and now the digital revolution.
Through it all, one thing hasn’t changed: our commitment to serving Racine, Wisconsin, with the news and music that matter most to you.
This is our love letter to the city we’ve called home for 99 years.
99 Years of Being Your Neighbor
In 1926, radio was the cutting-edge technology. Calvin Coolidge was president.
The first talking motion picture hadn’t even premiered yet. And WRJN signed on the air to serve Racine.
Think about what that means. Your great-grandparents might have listened to us. Your grandparents definitely did. Your parents grew up with us. And now you’re here, maybe with kids or grandkids of your own, still tuning in.
We’ve watched Racine grow, change, struggle, and thrive. We’ve reported on high school football championships, carried Racine Raiders national championship victories, and city council debates.
We’ve played the hits when they were brand new: and we’re still playing them now because great music never gets old.
That kind of longevity doesn’t happen by accident. It happens because a radio station chooses, every single day, to put the community first.
We show up to care about what happens on Main Street, not just Wall Street.
To be a neighbor, not just a broadcaster.
Why Hyper-Local News Still Matters in 2026
We live in a world where you can get news from anywhere, anytime, on any device.
National headlines. International updates. Breaking news alerts from cities you’ve never visited.
But here’s what those sources can’t tell you: What happened at last night’s school board meeting. Which local business just celebrated 50 years. Why there’s construction on your usual route to work. Who won the regional volleyball tournament. What the weather’s really going to do this afternoon: not what some algorithm predicts for “Southeastern Wisconsin,” but what’s happening right here in Racine.
That’s hyper-local news. Neighbor-to-neighbor information. The stuff that actually affects your daily life.
In an era of media consolidation, where national chains own most local outlets and algorithms decide what you see, WRJN remains genuinely local.
Our news team lives here. Shops here. Sends their kids to school here. Knows the people, places, and stories that make Racine unique.
When you hear local news on WRJN, you’re not getting a generic report repackaged for 50 different markets.
You’re getting news from someone who cares about this community because they’re part of it.
That matters more than ever. In a fragmented media landscape where trust is scarce, knowing your news source is actually local: actually accountable to the community: creates a foundation other platforms can’t replicate.
Timeless Hits: The Soundtrack of Your Life
Music is memory. A song comes on, and suddenly you’re 17 again, cruising down Main Street. Relaxing on North Beach on a summer night. Or you’re at your wedding. Or in your parents’ kitchen on a Sunday morning.
WRJN’s Timeless Hits format isn’t just about playing classic songs. It’s about honoring the soundtrack of your life. The music that defined your youth, marked your milestones, and still sounds perfect today.
The Beatles. The Stones. Motown. The British Invasion. Singer-songwriters. Classic rock. The hits that topped the charts in the late 50s, 60s, and early 70s: back when music felt bigger than life and every new release was an event.
For our 35+ listeners (and let’s be honest, most of our core audience is 45+), these aren’t just oldies. They’re the songs you grew up with. The music your parents played. The soundtrack that connects generations of Racine families.
We know that when you tune into WRJN, you’re not just looking for background noise. You’re looking for something familiar. Something real. Something that feels like home.
That’s why Timeless Hits work so well on local radio. These songs don’t just sound good: they connect us to each other and to our shared history. When Aretha Franklin comes on the radio, everyone in Racine is hearing it at the same time. That’s a shared experience that streaming playlists, no matter how personalized, can never recreate.
The Don Rosen Morning Show: Your Daily Connection Point
Every weekday morning from 6-9AM, The Don Rosen Morning Show serves as Racine’s community bulletin board. It’s where you hear about local arts events, fundraisers, school activities, and the stories that make Racine special.
Don doesn’t just read announcements. He connects with local organizations, highlights community members doing good work, and creates a space where Racine talks to itself. It’s part news, part entertainment, part community service: and it’s been a morning ritual for thousands of local listeners for years.
This kind of hyper-local programming doesn’t exist on national radio or streaming services.
It can only happen when a radio station is deeply embedded in its community and committed to serving as more than just a music player.
If you’re involved in local arts, education, nonprofit work, or community events, the Don Rosen Morning Show is one of the best ways to reach engaged Racine residents who actually show up and participate.
Why This Still Matters in a High-Tech World
Technology has transformed how we consume media. Smartphones. Streaming. Podcasts. Social media. You have infinite choices for news and entertainment.
So why does a 99-year-old radio station still matter?
Because technology can’t replace community. Algorithms can’t replicate local knowledge. And streaming services, for all their convenience, can’t tell you what’s happening three blocks from your house.
WRJN matters because we’re not trying to be everything to everyone.
We’re trying to be exactly what Racine needs: a reliable source of local news and the music you love, delivered by people who actually live here.
We matter because when severe weather hits, you know where to turn.
When a local business needs support, we’re here to help.
When your kids accomplish something at school, we want to celebrate it.
When Racine faces challenges, we’re part of the conversation about solutions.
Among Racine radio stations, WRJN has earned trust the old-fashioned way: by showing up, day after day, year after year, decade after decade. By being here in 1926 and still being here in 2026. By proving that local matters.
Looking Forward While Honoring the Past
Nearly a century of service doesn’t mean we’re stuck in the past. WRJN has evolved alongside Racine: adding digital streaming, engaging on social media, and integrating new technologies while keeping what matters most: Local News and Timeless Hits.
We’ve learned that innovation doesn’t require abandoning your core identity. You can embrace new tools while staying true to your mission. You can evolve while honoring your history.
That’s exactly what we’ll keep doing. Serving Racine with the same commitment we’ve had since 1926, using every tool available to connect, inform, and entertain our community.
99 Years and Counting
This isn’t just WRJN’s story. It’s Racine’s story.
We’ve been the voice in your car during your morning commute. The background music at family gatherings. The emergency information source during storms. The companion during late-night drives.
The constant presence through every chapter of your life.
For 99 years, we’ve had the honor of serving this community. Of being your neighbor on the radio. Of providing the Local News you need and the Timeless Hits you love.
Thank you, Racine, for nearly a century of trust, loyalty, and community.
Here’s to many more years of being your local radio station: playing the hits, reporting the news, and serving the place we all call home.
Because in a world that’s increasingly global and digital, there’s still nothing quite like having a neighbor you can count on.
And that’s exactly what WRJN has been, and always will be (for Racine).
Hillard Preston Posey, 85, of Lake Linden, passed away after a short illness, at the Omega House in Houghton, on February 20, 2026.
Hillard was born on April 18, 1940, in Alabama, a son of Nolan and Bessie (Morgan) Posey. He attended school in Walled Lake, Michigan.
Hillard worked for the City of Wixom as an equipment operator. He managed a service station in Hubbell. He worked at Silver Forest Products in Lake Linden for a number of years and at Posey Contracting with his son until his retirement.
Hillard was married to Lois Tuck on June 4, 1960 in Walled Lake, Michigan, 66 years ago in June.
He was a member of Whitetails Unlimited and the NRA.
Hillard was a wonderful husband, father, grandfather, and friend. He was adored by many for being kind and gentle. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, and snowmobiling. His favorite place was the camp, first in Ewen, and later at Gay-Lac La Belle.
He was preceded in death by his parents, sisters-Goldie and Joyce, and brother-Mark.
He is survived by: his wife-Lois; 3 sons-Steve (Kimberly) Posey of Woodstock, GA, Robert (Jill) Posey of Lake Linden, and Jeff Posey of Woodstock, GA; 3 grandchildren-Joel (Jordan), Benjamin (Colleen), and Britney (Colton) Baylor; 6 great-grandchildren and soon to be 7-Liam, Lucy, Shea, Jack, Piper, and Rosalee; sister-Ruth Delap; brother-Mike (Cheryl) Posey; and many other relatives.
The family wishes to give special thanks to the caring people at the Omega House.
The celebration of Hillard’s life for family and friends will be held this summer. The Pearce Funeral Home in Lake Linden is assisting with arrangements. In Lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Omega House. Online condolences may be shared at pearcefuneralhome.com
Marsha Ann “Kitty” Paduan (née Young) passed away peacefully on Monday, February 16, at Omega House, surrounded by love and comfort. Having entered Omega House for hospice care on her 82nd birthday, she found strength and peace in her faith, reading Psalm 23 each day. She now rests with her Lord and Savior.
Born January 19, 1944, in Newark, New Jersey, Marsha was the first child of Kenward Young and Mary Young (née Raba). Her early years were marked by resilience and strength as she and her siblings navigated foster care across Michigan before being reunited in Hancock. It was there, at her father’s Coffee Cup restaurant, that she met John J. Paduan — the love of her life — who affectionately called her “Kitten,” a name that became “Kitty” to all who knew her.
Kitty graduated from Hancock High School in 1961 and married John that December. Together, they built a home filled with devotion, determination, and family. Their son Mark was born in 1962, followed by their daughter Heather in 1971 — the first girl born into the Paduan family in over forty years.
A dedicated and hardworking woman, Kitty held many roles throughout her life. She worked at the Coffee Cup and Copperama restaurants, supported the family’s Airport Limousine Service, served as a courier for Continental Bio-clinical Laboratories, and later became a beloved cashier at Shopko, where she remained until the store’s closing in 2019. Through every season, she approached work with quiet diligence and pride.
Kitty found joy in life’s simple pleasures. She loved gardening, trying new recipes, second-hand shopping, and spending time on her porch visiting with friends. She greeted neighbors warmly and took delight in small acts of kindness. During her final summer, she found great happiness riding her bright red scooter through the neighborhood, listening to Christian music, chatting with passersby, and handing out dog treats to beloved neighborhood pets. She was truly a people person whose warmth drew others close.
Family was the center of Kitty’s life. She cherished gatherings large and small, welcoming relatives and friends with warmth and generosity. She became a grandmother in 1988 with the birth of her granddaughter Chelsae Elizabeth, followed in later years by Madelyn, Adriely, Isaac, Ariadne, and Maria. She cherished her role as grandmother and great-grandmother and treasured time spent with her grandchildren and great-grandchildren, sharing stories, laughter, and love.
Kitty was preceded in death by her husband, John J. Paduan (2001); her sister, Bernice “Bee” Henley (2001); and her brother, Kenneth Young (2018).
She is survived by her son, Mark Paduan and his wife Nina (née Vitale) of Grand Rapids, Michigan; her daughter, Heather Wise and her husband Jeff of Sault Ste. Marie, Michigan; as well as numerous nieces, nephews, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren who will carry her memory forward.
Kitty will be remembered as a devoted wife, loving mother, cherished grandmother, and loyal friend. Her life was a testament to endurance, faith, kindness, and love freely given. Her presence brought comfort and joy to many, and her memory will live on in the hearts of all who knew her.
To view Kitty’s obituary or to send condolences to the family, please visit www.memorialchapel.net.
The Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service – Hancock Chapel is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Rose Mary Haataja, age 92 of L’Anse, MI passed away at Bayside Village, L’Anse on Thursday, February 19, 2026 with her loving family by her side She was born in L’Anse on October 1, 1933, the daughter of the late Samuel and Margaret (Kipsoden) Lightfoot Spruce. Rose Mary graduated from L’Anse High School in 1952. She married Alexander A. “Alex” Haataja in Baraga on May 21,
He preceded her in death on December 14, 2008. Rose Mary been employed in various occupations, including Sear’s and Robuck in Chicago, IL, KBITC Wigwam, making leather goods, KBIC Housing as Housing Director, Home School coordinator at the L’Anse Area Schools for 25 years, retiring in 1994, and was a Big Bucks Bingo worker. Rose Mary was a member of Zeba Methodist Church, and Forest Lutheran Church in Silver Springs, FL, Keweenaw Bay Indian Community, and was a Tribal Council member from 1962-1967, 1968-1973, 1979-1989, and 1991-1999 and the Ojibwa Senior Citizens. She enjoyed working in her flower and vegetable gardens, playing bingo, bowling, playing softball on the “Bear Walkers” and “Haataja Hotshots” teams and had also enjoyed singing in the Choir at the Lutheran Church. Rose Mary was also a 40-year breast cancer survivor! Rose Mary is survived by her loving children, William A. “Sonny” Haataja, Randy R. (Lynn) Haataja, Steven S. Haataja, Darren D Haataja all of L’Anse and Laurie A. (Mark) Irwin of Baraga, daughter-in-law Cindy Haataja of L’Anse, grandchildren Leslie (Megan) Haataja, Corey Haataja, Cody (Ashlyn) Haataja, Amanda (Arron) Bloxton-Kippola, Steve Irwin, Jennie (Andy) Clouphier, and Sean Spruce, great grandchildren Max, Enzo, Kian, Iris, Kia, Jackson, Kyla, Alex “Bodie”, Teddy, and Hunter, brother Ronald (Betty) Spruce of Aura. Numerous nieces, nephews and cousins also survive. She was preceded in death by her parents, husband, son Leslie “Les” in 2017, brothers Russell, William, Robert, Kenneth, Samuel Jr., infant brother Stephen, sisters Evelyn Holapaa, Elenor Seppanen, Barbara Mantila, and infant sister Patricia, and niece Terry lee Haataja. Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m., Thursday, February 26, 2026 at Reid Funeral Service and Chapel, L’Anse with Pastor John Henry officiating. The family will greet friends at the funeral home on Thursday from 10 a.m. until the time of the funeral service. Immediately following the services, the family invites friends to join them for luncheon and fellowship at the Zeba Hall, Zeba, MI.
Interment will take place in the Pinery Cemetery. Rose Mary’s obituary may also be viewed and condolences sent to the family at www.reidfuneralservicechapel.com The Reid Funeral service and Chapel, L’Anse has been entrusted with the funeral arrangements.
Claude A. Waltenberg Jr. age 83, of Park Falls, died on Thursday February 12, 2026, at Park Manor Nursing Home in Park Falls. He was born on November 14, 1942, in Stevens Point, the son of Claude Sr. and Lula (Barden) Waltenberg. After graduating high school, he served his country in the United States Army. On December 29, 1962, he married Viriginia Warren. Claude worked for the Stevens Point Paper Mill and the Washburn Police Department before coming to Park Falls in 1992 where he owned and operated Claude’s Sharpening Service. He enjoyed hunting, fishing, camping and spending time with his family and friends.
He is survived by his sons: Tom (Jo), Chris (Jackie), Jim (Karen), and Chad (Emilie), his brothers: Dewayne (Jan) and Byron (Molly), and sister Leona (Dave), and many grandchildren, nieces, nephews, and other relatives and friends. He was preceded in death by his parents, his wife Virgina, his son Rob, his grandson Patrick, and brothers Eugene and Ernie.
A celebration of life will be announced at a later date.
Birch Street Funeral Service is assisting the family.
Larry Edward Parolini, 76, of Suo District, Houghton, MI, died February 10, 2026, after a fall at his home at Onkalo’s Corners on the Chassell/Painesdale Road. Larry was born December 26,1949, in Detroit, MI, to Edward J. Parolini and Helen V. (Martilla) Parolini. When he was seven-years old, the family moved north to Baltic, MI, where he was raised. He graduated from Jeffers High School in 1968, and Northern Michigan University five years later. One winter day in the early 1960’s, Larry showed up at the Baltic ice rink with a new pair of “Chore-Boy” brand kids’ boots. One of the older guys (Pete Pakala? John Baima? Jim Raffaelli?) noticed the name on the boots and a lifelong nickname was born. “Chore-Boy” was shortened to “Chores” along the way. In the early 1980’s Larry moved to the Parolini family farm and lived there for the remainder of his life.
Larry was a member of Labors Local 1329 for 50+ years. For the great majority of his working years he worked for Gundlach Construction.
A devoted Catholic, Larry was a life-long member of Holy Family Church in South Range. He was a Knight of Columbus for 40 years, a lector for decades, and very much enjoyed working at fund-raising events for the church, the annual spaghetti dinner being his favorite.
Larry played hockey for most of his life. He was an avid runner in his 20’s and 30’s. In his 40’s and 50’s he rode his bicycle daily, weather permitting. For the past ten years he seldom missed his daily walk of 5 or 6 miles. The Tigers, the Red Wings and the Lions were his teams.
Perhaps his favorite pastime of all was having coffee with friends at various restaurants throughout the years. To quote Ray Carlson, a close friend: “If you’re looking for Larry, go to the Tapiola Diner. If he’s not there, wait, he will be.”
There was always a cat in Larry’s house and the last one, Ollie, will now live with his brother and his wife.
Larry is survived by: Siblings: Eddie (Terry) Parolini, Brenda (Richard Miller) Parolini, Diane (John) Waisanen. Nieces and nephews: Joseph (Rachel) Wuorinen, Sara Wuorinen, Dr. Kyle (Dr. Stephanie) Waisanen, Kara (Calvin) Wilson, Kelsey (Michael) Corrado. He also leaves behind four great nephews and three great nieces.
Cremation has taken place and, to accommodate out-of-state family, Larry’s funeral and the interment of his ashes, next to the graves of his mother and father, will take place this summer.
To view this obituary or to send condolences online to the family, please visit www.memorialchapel.net.
The Memorial Chapel Funeral & Cremation Service – Mt. View Chapel of South Range is assisting the family with the arrangements
Gertrude Anne “Trudi” Huls, 85, of Houghton, passed away on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at Portage Pointe in Hancock.
She was born on November 2, 1940 in Muskegon, Michigan to the late Wilburn and Dorothy (Gilbert) Cook. She was united in marriage to Edward J. Huls on October 28, 1960. He preceded her in death in 2019.
Trudi earned her nursing degree and dedicated 30 years of service to Portage Hospital in Hancock, Michigan where she concluded her career as head of the Obstetric Department. She formed lifelong friendships with her coworkers and was deeply respected for her compassion and leadership.
Trudi was also known for her kindness and generosity. She treasured time spent with family and enjoyed traveling between Houghton and “the farm” in Rothbury, Michigan.
She is survived by her sons Darda (Barb) Huls of Holland, Michigan and Tim (Paula) Huls of Calumet, Michigan; her four grandchildren: Dylan (Jenni) Huls of Houghton, Jaclyn (Dan) Angeli of Holland, Cassie (Dylan) Parske of Calumet, and Chris (Kim) Huls of Holland; four great-grandchildren; her brother Bill (JoAnne) Cook of Rothbury; and many beloved nieces and nephews.
The family is grateful for the compassionate care provided by The Bluffs, Portage Pointe, and U.P. Health System-Portage.
Per her wishes, there will be a memorial service with burial at Oak Grove Cemetery in Rothbury, Michigan.
The O’Neill-Dennis funeral Home in Hancock is assisting with the arrangements. To leave online condolences, please go to www.oneilldennisfh.com.
