WRCO Morning Obituaries

100.9 and 107.7 country and community in Richland Center.

Here's your Daily News

Roundup.

I'm Connie Feldman.

It's not too late to get in on all the action of Packers Family night tomorrow night.

The Packers say a very limited number of tickets are still available for the fun-filled family evening at Lambeau.

Titletown Family Fest kicks off Friday's festivities at 3 p.m.

with activities for fans of all ages.

Lambeau Field Gates open at 5.30 with the team taking the field for warm-ups at 7.

and practice beginning at 7.30.

Family Night features a game-like atmosphere with Game Day music, jersey giveaways, and wraps up with a fireworks display over Lambeau Field.

While there are a few event tickets available, parking passes are sold out for Lambeau Field and Titletown.

Just like on Game Day, parking is available in surrounding neighborhoods, and many area businesses and residents offer pay-to-park options.

Wisconsin is fighting a Trump administration rule that would ease restrictions on a type of greenhouse gas used in refrigerators and air conditioners.

The State Justice Department says the chemicals, known as HFCS, are far more harmful to the climate than carbon dioxide, and the new rule would delay deadlines for phasing them out.

The administration says the change gives businesses more time and could reduce costs.

Wisconsin is joining a coalition of other states in the legal challenge.

One candidate for Wisconsin Governor says she's disappointed with the outcome of an encampment in Madison.

State Representative Francesca Hong spoke out yesterday following Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway's decision to clear out the sight of a fatal police shooting serving as a makeshift memorial.

People have been protesting and camping out there since Corey Ruiz was shot and killed by police on July 22.

In a statement, Hong called on Madison to be transparent about arrests and tactics used by law enforcement.

She said she wanted to make sure personal items and memorial materials were returned to their owners.

A legal group is suing Governor Evers and state officials over a law that authorized online sports betting through tribal administration.

The lawsuit argues that Wisconsin Act 247 violates the Wisconsin Constitution, which was updated in 1993 to prohibit most forms of gambling, with limited exceptions, such as the state lottery and charity raffles.

The group is suing on behalf of the Brown County Taxpayers Association and Milwaukee-based Citizens Defending Liberty.

The lawsuit also challenges Governor Evers' plan to negotiate tribal agreements in order to implement Wisconsin Act 247.

Such agreements, if negotiated, would ensure online sports gambling is done using computer servers on tribal lands.

Tribes like the United Nations support legalizing online sports betting.

They argue Act 247 ensures sports betting stays within the state rather than spreading into illegal or unregulated markets.

The governor's spokesperson said in a statement to WITI

TV, the governor will fight the lawsuit.

A correctional officer from Janesville has been dismissed and taken into custody after finding himself on the opposite side of the law.

The Rock County Sheriff's Office terminated Jacob Struley following reports he had a sexual relationship with an inmate.

The 28-year-old was arrested yesterday after officials conducted interviews with the parties involved in the allegations.

He is slated to appear in court tomorrow.

A Madison-based medical center is once again being recognized as the premier facility in Wisconsin.

For the 15th consecutive year, U.S.

News & World Report has crowned UW Health as the top ranked hospital in the state.

The center earned national accolades in nine adult and three pediatric specialties, while also receiving high performance ratings in 20 separate procedures and medical conditions.

Coming in at number two on the annual list for the Badger State is Milwaukee's Aurora St.

Luke's Medical Center.

And that's your state news update.

I'm Connie Feldman for Civic Media News.

A comeback win for Harrison.

High on Mike Clemens with sports baseball.

The Brewers beat the Pirates last night 4-2 in Milwaukee.

Lefty Kyle Harrison in his first start in over a month was doing great striking out 10 at 1.8 batters in a row when he says his legs started to cramp up towards the end of the fifth inning.

You know those last two hitters in the fifth inning just kind of locking up on me had the groin locking up the calves were just cramping.

So first time I really experienced like a full body cramp out there.

The series wraps up this afternoon.

NFL, the Packers getting ready for tomorrow night's family night practice inside Lambeau Field set to start a little after seven o'clock in Madison quarterback Colton Joseph on why he decided to transfer from Old Dominion to Wisconsin.

You know, Coach Guyton was had a big influence on that.

Coach Grimes, Coach Fickle.

Really, I just saw it as the biggest opportunity for me to come out and show what I can do and make a name for myself.

And since I've been here, make a name for the Badgers.

That's quarterback Colton Joseph with sports.

I'm Mike Clemens.

It is going to be

sunny today with a high in the low to mid 80s here this afternoon tonight mostly clear we're going to drop into the upper 50s to near 60 for a low tomorrow mostly sunny with a slight chance of an afternoon shower or thunderstorm and a high again in the low to mid 80s.

I'm meteorologist Sean Cable.

That's your news roundup for Richland Center from WRCE and WRCO.

Find more news anytime at wrco.com and wrce.fm.

Subscribe to this podcast on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you find your podcasts.

Today is August 6.

These are today's vital statistics.

Kathy E. Wilson, 73 of Stoughton, formerly of Richland Center, died unexpectedly Friday, July 31, from injuries sustained in a fall.

Funeral services will be held today at 11 a.m.

at the Stafford Rural Home with burial in the Richland Center Cemetery.

Visitation will be held at the Stafford Funeral Home in Richland Center today from 10 a.m.

until the time of service at 11.

The Stafford Funeral Home in Richland Center is assisting the family.

Kathy E. Wilson, 73 of Stoughton, formerly of Richland Center.

David L. Fry, 82 of Richland Center, died Monday, August 3rd at the Richland Hospital.

Funeral services will be held Friday, August 7th at the Pratt Memorial Chapel at 3 p.m.

with burial to follow in the Richland Center Cemetery.

A live stream of the service can be viewed at the Pratt Funeral Anchormation Service website.

Visitation will be held at the Pratt Memorial Chapel Friday

August 7th from 1 p.m.

until 3 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be directed to the Church of the Nazarene, the Richland Center Food Pantry, or GRACE.

The Pratt Funeral Cremation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.

David L. Frey, 82 of Richland Center.

Patrick John

Peterson, 39 of Richland Center, died Saturday August 1st at the family cabin in Wildrose.

A celebration of Patrick's life will be held Saturday August 8th at 11 a.m.

at Clary Memorial Funeral Home in Richland Center.

Friends may call Friday August 7th at Clary Memorial Funeral Home from 4 p.m.

to 7 p.m.

and also Saturday from 10 a.m.

until the time of service.

Patrick John Peterson, 39, of Richland Center.

Lyle Paul Barnes, 98, of Richland Center died Wednesday, June 24th.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday August 9th from noon until four at the Coon Valley American Legion.

Burial will be at the Viola Cemetery.

The Vasateg Larson funeral home and crematory is serving the family.

Lyle

Paul Barnes, 98 of Richland Center.

Michelle Marie Ault Wilson, best known as Shelly Ault, 61 of Richland Center, died Thursday, July 30, after a courageous battle with lung and brain cancer.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 19, from 1 p.m.

until 5 p.m.

at the Phoenix Center in Richland Center.

The Stafford Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Shelly Ault 61 of Richland Center.

Today's vital statistics are sponsored by Crowsie Monument.

Crowsie Monument Company designs and produces granite headstones, gravestones, grave markers, monuments, and memorials.

Today is August 6th.

These are today's vital statistics.

David L. Fry, 82 of Richland Center, died Monday, August 3rd at the Richland Hospital.

funeral services will be held Friday, August 7th at the Pratt Memorial Chapel at 3 p.m.

with burial to follow in the Richland Center Cemetery.

A live stream of the service can be viewed at the Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service website.

Visitation will be held at the Pratt Memorial Chapel Friday, August 7th from 1 p.m.

until 3 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be directed to the Church of the

Nazarene, the Richland Center food pantry, or GRACE.

The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting the family with their arrangements.

David L. Fry, 82 of Richland Center.

Patrick John Peterson, 39 of Richland Center, died Saturday, August 1st, at the family cabin in Wildrose.

A celebration of Patrick's life will be held Saturday August 8th at 11 a.m.

at Clary Memorial Funeral Home in Richland Center.

Friends may call Friday August 7th at Clary Memorial Funeral Home from 4 p.m.

to 7 p.m.

and also on Saturday from 10 a.m.

until the time of service.

Patrick John Peterson, 39 of Richland Center.

Lyle Paul

Barnes, 98 of Richland Center, died Wednesday, June 24th.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, August 9th, from noon to 4 p.m.

at the Coon Valley American Legion.

Burial will be at the Viola Cemetery.

The Vasateg Larson Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family.

Lyle Paul Barnes, 98 of Richland Center.

Michelle Marie Ault Wilson, best known as Shelly Ault, 61 of Richland Center died Thursday, July 30th, after a courageous battle with lung and brain cancer.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 19th, from 1 p.m.

until 5 p.m.

at the Phoenix Center in Richland Center.

The Stafford Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Shelly Ault 61 of Richland Center.

This concludes today's vital statistics.

It's time for Thursday's Roundup.

Thursday's Roundup is powered by added touch Floral and Gifts, Schmidt Woodland Hills, Richland Hospital, Cardinal Glass CG, Badgerland Flooring, and by Pratt Funeral Incrimination Service.

It's game day.

We're rolling out dumb cheap games that somehow turn into bragging rights.

No strategy, no practice, just luck, vibes, and questionable choices.

the most anticipated moment of the week, especially if you're from Arkansas.

If it comes back quick, that's a green light and you can take a victory lap.

If it drags on, Hank says, step away, stretch like nothing happened, and act like you had better plans all along.

So tune in, play along and let Thursday's roundup turn ordinary into slightly ridiculous in the best way possible.

Grab your skates, yeah, we're calling you.

It's time for the roundup Hey, stop it

There he is.

Sorry buddy.

What's going on?

I didn't know we were on the air that fast.

Yeah, sure.

How you doing buddy?

Yeah, I'm well.

I'm well.

We've had a long week.

It's been a busy week for a busy week.

This was a nice launch.

It's busy week.

Rewarding.

Very, very, um,

when you go and look through the numbers and the products that we have, it's pretty, pretty neat.

It's a typical auction because, you know, you can't get too high or too low because there are some items I'm thinking, man, that's, that's way too low.

And then there's another item I'm like, oh my goodness, who jumped up and, you know.

And just, just some of these gift cards that going over value, that's, that's just working.

That's amazing to me that these people in this community in the surrounding area do what they do.

It

is.

It's very, very heartwarming, you know, because you don't see.

A lot of communities wouldn't do this like like they do around here.

It's very it's just amazing with the people that we have

around here.

Yeah Well, I think the cause is grace everybody knows there's unfortunately there's a need and

it's still just the way they step up,

right?

I mean, you know, it's tough times for everybody right now and it's just it is so

I don't know.

It's just very, very heartfelt.

Thank you to everybody.

It's just, it's amazing.

Yeah.

Over 12 grand in three days.

And we're hoping to have a good finish.

The other impressive thing is we've had more bitter numbers given out this year than any year we've ever done this, this auction.

So that's

good.

Well, I have eight of them myself.

Oh, you do.

Okay.

You got Hank, you got Henry, you

got

Spud.

Hank Skeeter.

Yeah, Skeeter.

Skeeter on

there.

So

no, no, it's just, it's just amazing.

It's the bidders, the numbers, and people will call and get a bidder number for one item.

I know it.

I noticed that.

And they will get that item.

Somebody called about that yesterday and, and they got the item.

I think they were the one that got it, but, um,

There was like, they were the only one bidding on it.

That's the thing.

You need two people to really get interested in it.

And you just never know what's going to tickle somebody's fancy.

Right.

Yeah.

You don't know.

You don't know.

So very, very, very good, uh, auction.

So, but today is Thursday and here's your day.

This is going to be an easy question for, I

can't believe that

describe your dream job.

Well

working with him, I would guess yes Been doing it about 40 years now.

You have

been you

have and August I think it's 17th or 18th is exactly

40 doing very well.

Yes.

Thank you So it's my hobby jobs.

My wife calls

it.

It may be your hobby job, but you do it.

Well,

thank you so

And if I could just be half is what you are I'll be happy and that's truth,

huh?

I'm not talking about the size

size wise

size wise right just

It, you know, yeah, we'll go from there.

Well, let's see here.

Uh, you might be from peerage or Ithaca here, Phillip.

If you, if your grandma can diagnose illness with Vicks and a look at Vicks works on everything.

Yep.

Yep.

Put it on your feet, put on some socks.

Yep.

How you go?

And it's amazing.

Yeah.

So bug bites, bugs bite.

I didn't know

that.

Put it over a bug bite.

Really?

Yep.

What does it stop the itch?

It stops the itch.

It stops the itch and it just, it smothers whatever's in there.

Wow.

I did it last night.

Done.

Yep.

My mom, music's the other, the other all cure was anytime you had anything, take an aspirin,

take an aspirin.

Yes.

So back in my day, you're going to laugh at this.

I remember at my grandmother's house, you know, hydrogen peroxide or alcohol, they had it all, but my grandmother had something a little bit different.

All right.

kerosene kerosene.

I remember cutting right.

There's the scar.

I rode my bike.

I had my bike and I rode into a bob wire fence and that bob wire gun underneath here.

And you can see it ripped all the way up.

Oh, I did.

So ruins your hand.

My hand.

And it's all done.

Maybe a glove.

Maybe.

So, but.

And it was, it was open.

Okay.

And here's another one.

My finger almost got cut off here.

So what happened was she would take a kerosene towel or a

cloth, dip it in kerosene and put it on top of that.

But that's done.

Not really.

Didn't it?

But it's, it's a, they, they believed in kerosene cure or getting rid of the bacteria and stuff.

And you know what?

Well, I'm sure it worked.

Just don't go around to fire.

Yeah.

Don't smoke.

Yeah.

Whoa.

So yeah.

Yeah.

So kerosene.

Interesting.

I don't

know if anybody else has heard that, but kerosene.

They used to, but she used to put kerosene on her cuts and stuff and it would stop the bleeding.

and then we'd get rid of the infection that was in there, and then she would lay it over and tape it all up and you're good to go.

Wow.

I mentioned yesterday that bread and milk poultice was another standby.

Yes, yes.

Yeah, I got a bite one time and she put that on there and it did, it did seem to take the infection out, you know, it kind of draws it out.

Kind

of draws it out.

But, uh, yeah, I'm not sure.

Some of Hank's cooking would probably draw some of

that stuff out.

Yeah, it probably would

too.

Yeah.

Just not where you want it to dry out.

Man and ship have the most complex eyes in the animal kingdom.

They are ultraviolet light, polarized light, and they even see more color than wavelengths than humans.

I mean, it's just right off my head.

Mantis

shrimp.

What did I say?

Well, that's, I don't know that it was quite clear when you said that.

That word

brought to you by J and J Otters.

I

think

you said man some man's man's man shrimp man shrimp.

What's wrong?

This sound effect thing isn't working really well.

I

don't think you have the new one that Donna gave us.

Where's that one at?

That button.

Yeah,

that

ain't good.

Maybe the battery's low.

Or maybe it's the operator.

It could be.

Today is game day, Phillip.

All right, we have a new game today.

Brand new.

Fresh.

Suffer and suck a tash.

Suffer and suck a tash.

Still have that can of suffer and suck a tash.

Would you please eat that triple suck attached?

It's got a little dust on the top of it.

No, it doesn't it

dust dust on the can instead of dust on the Bible

We got another year.

It says used by August 14th, 2027.

Oh, we got another year another year.

Yeah.

Yeah.

All right, buddy today is pizza party throwdown.

All right So anyway Time for recess.

Yeah, here we go.

And this is what she looks like.

Oh, that's cool.

All right, you can be the green guy you can be the

Brown guy you can breathe a blue guy or you can be the red guy All right.

Well, I'll take the blue guy.

All right.

You're gonna take the blue

guy

guy I'm gonna take the red guy now.

He looks like Mario from he really

don't keep on your

brothers.

You get first pick.

All right.

I don't know if this is lettuce, but here's anchovies Mushrooms and pepperoni.

What is the green stuff does it say?

I don't know.

Let's

see.

Olives, maybe?

It may

be olives.

Green olives?

It may be.

Huh.

So we have this.

It's

peppers.

Oh, peppers.

Yeah.

So we have the pizza.

It's a circular cardboard pizza.

This actually looks like some pizzas that I bought over there.

There's, you know, the, you say of the cardboard pizza.

Yeah.

The 99 cent

party

pizza.

But it was good at the time.

Well, absolutely.

My son would always get the, and I don't want to put down any brand because some people probably like him, but he would get the Jack's cheese.

And it was like, okay, it was about that thin.

You know?

Yeah.

So anyway, you pick one.

All right.

I've, I have taken the peppers.

You took the peppers.

You want anchovies?

I like mushrooms on my pizza.

And

you know what?

I'm

going to

take pepperoni

and then you can

have the anchovies.

Oh, I get

anchovies.

So now what this is, they're all color coded.

My pepperonis are red.

Uh-huh.

My peppers are green.

All right.

Your anchovies are blue and your mushrooms are orange.

Okay.

So

we're

going to turn this little timer on here, then it's going to rotate.

all right so do we shoot

these at the same time

yeah you can shoot them as much as you want okay so the more color you have on there at the end of the game each one is a point I see so we're going to do the supreme pizza one okay so supreme pizza means it can land anywhere on the game or on the on on the pizza on the pizza if we were doing like pepperoni or if we were doing quarter pizza you'd have to put the pepperoni in here you see what I'm saying yeah but now supreme pizza

Uh, we're just going to, uh, anyway,

anywhere we can, the game ends when the timer pings or when one player has landed all eight of their toppings anywhere on the pizza.

That's great.

But we have 16

toppings

because there's

only, because there's only two

of

us.

Okay.

All right.

All right.

So what we're going to do here.

Oh, it's got the timer

right on the base.

Are you ready?

Whatever.

Let her go there.

Here we go.

Hey, I got one.

Oh, that one went a little too high.

All right, just has to be on there, huh?

Oh, jeepers.

That one went way too far.

There we go.

Oh, you're killing me, Phil.

Hank Bray.

There we go.

I could go work at the Phoenix Center and make pizza.

I don't know if Amy or Greg would let you down there.

Probably

not.

Well, here we go.

Oh!

There's a pepperoni for you.

oh my pepperonis don't want to fly up there oh that one didn't stick it should

have okay oh i don't know how much time we have left well quite a bit i think

i'm not going to shoot your stuff back on there

there we go i'm getting them everywhere but the pizza fill all right oh wow all right so

I have the red.

Yes.

One, two, three.

And then the green.

Four.

I think I helped you with those greens.

Six.

I, I reshot

them on there.

Seven, eight.

Okay.

And

you got one, two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, nine, 10, 11.

You're a winner.

11 to eight.

I'm the pizza

guy.

You are the pizza.

Oh, look at

that.

Look at that.

You're just

all over this.

I like that.

That's a fun game.

Yeah, because you won.

Yeah, well, because I won.

That's the only reason.

Yeah, I didn't get mad and throw the game across.

You did.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Well, I used to play games with my sister.

I that's what how it usually ended, you know, because your sister beat you.

Yeah, absolutely.

Poor sport.

Look at that.

I'm trying to try to hit you.

Oh, you're trying to hit me for.

I got to have a good.

Oh, got to have a good look on the radio.

I got guests coming in today.

Yeah,

you do.

You do.

We've got another

day four of Walk With Grace.

Can't wait, gets underway at

10 o'clock.

Yeah, so fun game.

That was a fun

pizza party throw down.

Maybe we can play it again in a couple months.

Sometimes I take them home to the grandkids and the grandsons have kind of mutilated a couple of the games.

Oh, really?

That's

sad.

They still, they're still playing the fishing game.

Oh yeah.

And they're pretty good at it.

Better than you?

They beat me.

I mean, they're two and a half and yeah, they're still able to

Kick me.

Honestly, what

game how old do you have to be to play this?

I don't know, but I don't

think very old

age qualify.

Huh.

But so where did you find these games?

I just find them all.

This was four bucks,

four bucks.

Boy, just for hours of hours

of, yeah, for, for five minutes of fun.

So

anyway, Oh,

the love line today.

Oh, I almost forgot.

Are

you ready?

Yes.

Yes.

Let's see here.

Today's love line, August 6th.

Okay.

You ready?

Girl, if you were a vegetable, you'd be a cute cummer.

Oh boy.

Yeah.

Oh, yeah.

Flark.

Flark didn't work.

That was your sound effect.

You want to try it again?

You ready?

Girl, if you were a vegetable, you'd be a cute cummer.

Yes.

That's usually what I get.

I was like, yep.

No one's talking.

All right, buddy.

I hope you have a great day.

And just remember the auction starts at 10 a.m.

sharp join Phil this morning on for you got some nice guests this morning.

So yeah,

so anyway, enjoy your day.

Have a good day.

Hank Bray some fun on games on a Thursday.

Good morning, everyone.

For WRCO News, I'm Todd Copernall.

62 degrees under mostly sunny but foggy conditions outside right now.

In the news, a casual meeting of potentially affected landowners and concerned citizens of Richland County is scheduled for today from 5.30 to 7.30 at the old Millpond Park Shelter located at

600 West Seminary Street, the site of the Old Community Center.

In Richland Center, this gathering serves as a call to action for residents to network, share information and support one another as they navigate the looming threat of the proposed BECI mega transmission line.

The 190 mile project has come under heavy fire for what critics describe as a blatant lack of transparency.

Mid-continent grid solutions, the developer behind the proposal has reportedly

failed to provide detailed maps or preliminary route information to the approximately 134,000 landowners who could be impacted by the development.

Organized by a nonpartisan nonprofit volunteer group, the event aims to empower the community by answering questions and coordinating efforts to demand accountability from out-of-state developers.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs for seating at the park shelter.

Those snacks and bottled water will be provided for those who joined the discussion.

Yard signs are available for a donation as a fundraiser for this effort.

In Richland Center, a local man is in custody following a chaotic series of events July 30th that left several properties damaged and led to a coordinated police search through the city.

Chief Billy Jones of the Richland Center Police Department reported that the incident began when officers were dispatched to the 300 block of West Mill Street following reports of a male subject actively destroying property.

Upon their arrival at the scene, law enforcement identified the suspect as 41-year-old Christopher Grubowski of Richland Center.

Witnesses described a scene of significant destruction, alleging that Grubowski had been using a metal pipe to smash windows on a camper and damage other items in the vicinity.

By the time officers arrived, the suspect had already fled the area on foot.

prompting the immediate establishment of a police perimeter.

As the search intensified, investigators discovered further damage to a nearby vehicle and residents.

The situation escalated when Richland County dispatch received new reports that Grubowski had surfaced in another part of the city, where he was reported the attempting to engage in physical altercations with others.

Officers quickly shifted their search efforts, tracking the suspect as he continued to evade capture.

The pursuit reached its conclusion south of West 1st St., where a second perimeter was established.

Officers located Grubowski hiding behind a building and issued multiple verbal commands for his surrender.

After he failed to comply with these orders, officers deployed a taser.

to safely take him into custody.

Following a medical evaluation, Grubowski was transported to the Richland County Jail.

The Richland Center Police Department has referred the case to the district attorney with recommendations for charges, including criminal damage to property, resisting or obstructing an officer and disorderly conduct.

Chief Jones expressed his gratitude to the Richland County Sheriff's Office and Richland County EMS for their assistance in resolving the incident safely.

While charges have been recommended, Grobowski is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

The Richland County Executive and Finance Standing Committee is scheduled to convene Tuesday, August 11th at 5 p.m.

to address a robust agenda of critical local issues.

Meeting in the Richland County boardroom officials will prioritize a discussion on the proposed 765KV transmission line.

a 190-mile project spearheaded by Mid-Continent Grid Solutions.

Local stakeholders have voiced significant concerns regarding a lack of transparency and a truncated timeline for public engagement, particularly given the potential impact on family farms and the sensitive natural landscape of the driftless area.

The committee's review comes as residents demand a parcel-specific mapping and a more realistic period for evaluation before the formal application is submitted to the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin.

Beyond the utility project, the committee will shift its focus to the county's long-term financial and physical infrastructure.

Members are slated to discuss the 2027 preliminary county budget.

A foundational step in next year's fiscal planning and evaluate the comprehensive facility improvement plan.

The agenda also highlights recreational and public safety developments including potential action on UTV and ATV trails at Ash Creek Forest.

and the formal creation of an ad hoc committee dedicated to developing recommendations for a new jail facility.

This proposed advisory body would address long-standing questions regarding the county's correctional infrastructure

and future public safety needs.

The meeting will also encompass significant administrative and health related matters.

Discussion will cover private pay rate increases for the skilled nursing facility and community-based residential facility as well as a resolution authorizing community health services to apply for and accept the 2027 5310 operating

and capital purchase grants.

Before concluding, the committee may enter a closed session to evaluate employment and performance data for the county administrator pursuant to state statutes.

City officials in Madison are calling for calm after the removal of an encampment, sparked protests and fires.

Mayor Satya Rhodes Conway says frustration over the police shooting death of 38-year-old Corey Ruiz is understandable, but she condemned actions that she says harm the community.

Police removed an encampment Tuesday at the intersection where Ruiz was killed two weeks ago.

That led to protest street closures and three dumpster fires.

Police Chief John Patterson says officers showed restraint despite objects being thrown at them.

Patterson also says rebuilding trust remains a major challenge.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice continues to investigate the shooting.

The Wisconsin Office of Children's Mental Health has issued a critical alert regarding the intersection of youth vaping and mental health.

According to their latest findings, the high concentration of harmful chemicals in modern vaping devices poses a significant threat to young people.

OCMH director Linda Hall emphasizes that because the human brain continues to develop well into a person's 20s, youth are particularly susceptible to the high potency of nicotine and cannabis found in vapes, which substantially increases the risk of lifelong addiction.

A concerning trend identified in the report is the stress spiral associated with vaping.

While many teens turn to these devices under the impression they provide stress relief, the reality is that withdrawal symptoms actually intensify feelings of anxiety and depression.

This creates a cycle where young people feel compelled to vape again just to manage the stress caused by the initial use.

This normalization in popular culture is further complicated by product designs that mimic everyday items like lip gloss or gaming devices, making them discreet and appealing to a younger demographic.

Addressing this issue requires a full multifaceted approach, involving policymakers, educators, and families.

Potential solutions, including increasing sales taxes on products, restricting fruit and candy flavors.

and shifting school policies from punishment to prevention and support.

Organizations like the Nicotine Prevention Alliance of Central Wisconsin are already leading the way by establishing intervention programs and involving youth in developing credible prevention strategies.

Ultimately, the goal is to equip young people with healthy coping mechanisms, such as exercise or social connection, to manage daily stress without relying on addictive substances.

As the August 11th partisan primary approaches Wisconsin voters should begin by visiting the MyVote Wisconsin website to verify their registration status, locate their polling place, and review a simple ballot for those interested in voting before Election Day.

In-person absentee voting is currently available and individuals should contact their municipal clerk to confirm specific hours and locations.

When returning absentee ballots, the Wisconsin Elections Commission advises against mailing them this close to the election.

Instead, voters should coordinate with their municipal clerk to utilize secure drop boxes or office drop offs, ensuring ballots are received by 8 p.m.

on Election Day.

It is important to note that once an absentee ballot is returned it cannot be spoiled or exchanged for a new one.

On election day polls across the state will be open from 7 a.m.

to 8 p.m.

and any voter in line by 8 p.m.

will be permitted to cast their ballot.

Residents who are not yet registered may do so at their polling place

On Tuesday, provided they present a valid proof of residence document.

Additionally, all voters must present an acceptable photo ID, though the address on the ID does not need to match the voter's current residence.

In this partisan primary, voters must select one party preference and only vote for candidates within that specific party.

Casting votes across multiple parties will result in those votes not being counted.

Voters can remain confident in the integrity of the process as all voting equipment undergoes public testing and the state maintains strong security partnerships to protect election systems.

While many third-party groups may send texts or mailers with voting information, citizens are encouraged to rely exclusively on trusted sources such as the Wisconsin Elections Commission or local clerks for accurate details.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice has joined a coalition in a new lawsuit challenging the Trump administration's latest efforts to impose tariffs on goods from over 80 countries.

These nations represent 99.4% of all U.S.

imports, and the lawsuit argues that these additional costs will negatively impact American consumers and businesses who are already facing affordability challenges.

Wisconsin Attorney General Call

criticized the move, stating that the administration is exacerbating economic difficulties rather than addressing them.

This legal action follows previous unsuccessful attempts by the administration to implement similar measures.

Initially, the administration cited the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, which the Supreme Court later ruled unlawful.

A subsequent attempt using Section 122 of the Trade Act of 1974 was also declared illegal after being challenged by Wisconsin and other states.

Now the administration is invoking Section 301

of the Trade Act of 1974, directing the U.S.

Trade Representative to investigate global trade partners regarding forced labor.

The resulting tariffs of 10% and 12.5% are described as a foregone conclusion that mirrors previously struck-down policies.

The current lawsuit filed in the U.S.

Court of International Trade

alleges that these actions exceed the administration's legal authority and violate the Administrative Procedure Act.

This move comes as research from the Federal Reserve Bank of New York indicates that American consumers and businesses bore nearly 90% of the costs of tariffs in 2025.

By implementing these new price increases, critics argue the administration is continuing with failed economic policies.

Vital statistics right after this.

Today is August 6th.

These are today's vital statistics.

David L. Fry, 82 of Richland Center, died Monday, August 3rd at the Richland Hospital.

Funeral services will be held Friday, August 7th at the Pratt Memorial Chapel at 3 p.m.

with burial to follow in the Richland Center cemetery.

A live stream of the service can be viewed at the Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service website.

Visitation will be held at the Pratt Memorial Chapel Friday, August 7th from 1 p.m.

until 3 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorials be directed to the Church of the Nazarene, the Richland Center Food Pantry,

or Grace.

The Pratt Funeral Anchorimation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.

Dave is survived by his wife Karen, children Jeffrey and Amy Fry, Steven and Doree Fry, Stacy and Benjamin Wagner, brother Jerry and Lola Fry, sister Pamela and Jeffrey Neagle, sister-in-law Elda Fry, brother-in-law Stanley and Janita Ewing, nine grandchildren, ten great-grandchildren.

David L. Fry, 82 of Richland Center.

Patrick John Peterson, 39 of Richland Center, died Saturday, August 1st at the family cabin in Wildrose.

A celebration of Patrick's life will be held Saturday, August 8th at 11 a.m.

at Clary Memorial Funeral Home in Richland Center.

Friends may call Friday, August 7th at Clary Memorial Funeral Home from 4 p.m.

to 7 p.m.

and also on Saturday from 10 a.m.

until the time of service.

Patrick is survived by his parents, John and Linda Peterson, three siblings, Jennifer, Nen and Chris Lewis, Vosin, Beth, Bess and Matt Wood, Andy, Drew and Joni Peterson, many other relatives and friends.

Patrick John Peterson, 39 of Richland Center.

Lyle Paul Barnes, 98 of Richland Center died Wednesday, June 24th.

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, August 9th from noon until 4 p.m.

at the Coon Valley American Legion.

Burial will be at the Viola Cemetery.

The Vasateg Larson Funeral Home and Crematory is serving the family.

Lyle Barnes is survived by two daughters, Judy and Dan Kirchoff and Amy and Gary Barr.

Two grandsons, two step-grandsons, brother James Barnes, other relatives and friends.

Lyle Paul Barnes, 98 of Richland Center.

Michelle Marie Ault Wilson, best known as Shelly Ault.

61 of Richland Center died Thursday, July 30, after a courageous battle with lung and brain cancer.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, September 19, from 1 p.m.

until 5 p.m.

at the Phoenix Center in Richland Center.

The Stafford Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Shelly is survived by her parents Judy Alt Hein and stepfather Jerry Hein and father Larry Alt.

daughter Melissa and Nick Hilesheem, step-brother Jim Hine and step-sister Lori Hine Fields, sisters Cheryl and Marty Beringa and Chris and Andy Asbell, fiance Kirk Heiser and children Gavin, Grace and Gabrielle, step-sons Grant and Amber Ernst and David Ernst and Chris Wilson, step-daughter Martina, Kever, Wilson and children.

Shelly Ault 61

of Richland Center.

It was a high energy morning at WRCO today as the telephone auction for Grace continued with a recap of today's activity.

Here is our own Bo Henrichs.

Thank you very

much, Todd.

And it was a great fourth day, man.

This year has just been incredible so far.

I want to thank everybody starting off with all of those who donated the items, as well as all of those who bid today.

Everybody making this just go, you know, swimmingly, all of this money going to Grace, so we all win.

Now,

The breakdown today we started off with our first segment and we had the round barn free night in the family suite $125 to Bitter 830.

Colleen Burroughs a large fern in the teal pot $40 to Bitter 285.

The Hank Enterprises solar plant watering system $40 to Bitter 285.

And the Super Skater Pass from Galaxy Skate Center to Bitter 920 with $35.

on to the next segment.

We had the Fill Knee Dream Table.

Now that package went so well.

$325 to bidder 635.

Thank you so much.

Dianautical Strawberry Rhubarb Cheesecake $75 to bidder 635 as well.

The Vitesnik Power Sports Gift Certificate $125 to bidder 355.

The Heather Miller creative outlet give certificate $60 to bidder 110 also the raise do it best if gift card $50 to bidder 135 Now on to the next segment the last one for the 10 o'clock hour

The four brewer tickets from Quail Run, $160 to Bitter 560.

The three dozen donuts from Oakwood Fruit Farm, $80 to Bitter 995.

The grill set from WRCO went to Bitter 280 for $45.

House on the Rocks, two golf passes, $100 to Bitter 800.

And the Edward Jones Richland Locker Gift Certificate, $75 to Bitter 270.

Now, into the 11 o'clock hour, we have the Troxel Farms, Elusive Escape Rooms, $100 to bidder 645, Burnham Lumber's Certificate, $70 to bidder 270, the Downtown Richland Center Package, $125 to bidder 270, the WRCO's Back to School Package, $25 to bidder 450, and the Richland Family Prescriptions Center Certificate, $240 to bidder 155.

On to the next segment, Pulvy Farms 10lb package of steaks $275 to Bitter 270.

Mars Jalanx Fresh Bake Pie $80 to Bitter 680.

For the Ace Hardware Steel Chain Saw $325 going to Grace, thank you Bitter 158.

And the English Prairie Bourbon $140 to Bear 515.

The final segment of the day we had the basketball and w which was kind of a surprise man That was the bids were coming in left and right $80 to bidder 490 the sky chair from Bruce and Betsy Racelor went for $125 to bidder 855 the Meyer oil grease gun $325 to bidder 173 and then the WRCO Brewer tickets against the Braves on August 21st $175 to bidder 425 the big ticket

There were two each hour today the all-american duet center grill $550 to bidder 103 the Jamie Walsh 18 karat gold sterling silver pendant and earrings $550 to bidder 635 in hour number two the big ticket items the fire table from Jensen Castings $1,000 to bidder 138 and Walsh's ace is Vortex scope $275 to bidder 635

Now that gives us a total for day four of $5,795.

But we did have some individuals and businesses that were also donating matches.

So we want to thank those.

Milk Specialties $500 donation, the Thermodynamics $500 donation and Pam Moran's $100 donation.

So adding that together onto what we made,

Day four, we had $6,895.

And when I add everything together, after four days, we are at $19,410, all going to grace with one day still to go.

Thank you, everyone.

This is incredible.

And again, I think the fifth day.

Great items are going to be coming your way.

We have some really big ones.

So I think that it's going to be a great way to close it out.

So be ready.

10 o'clock tomorrow morning right here on WRCO radio.

We look forward to being with you.

And again, just another great day.

Thank you so much for all of those who took part in the Grace Auction.

Back to you, Todd.

Thank you, Bo Hendricks.

As Bo just said, so far the WRCO auction for Grace this year has raised $19,410 with one day to go.

Thank you so much, everyone.

Sincerely, thank you, everyone involved.

All of the bidders, all of those who donated items and the volunteers that have helped the staff down here.

If you were the winning bidder on any item at the Grace auction, you can pick those items up at the Grace office in Richland Center

Friday, tomorrow between 1 and 6 p.m.

or Monday between 8 and 5 p.m.

Again, if you are the winning bidder or on any auction item, you can pick that up at the Grace Office tomorrow between 1 and 6 p.m.

or Monday between 8 and 5 p.m.

The Air Waves in Richland Center felt a little more historic today as Senator Sarah Kieske stopped by our studios to honor a monumental milestone in local broadcasting.

Phil Nee, the beloved general manager and voice of WRCO, was honored for his remarkable 40-year career of dedicated service to the region.

Immediately following her appearance on today's morning show, State Senator Sarah Kieske presented Phil with a plaque featuring an official certificate of commendation, marking four decades of excellence in broadcasting.

For 40 years, Phil has been a cornerstone of the Richland Center community, bringing music

Local news and essential conversations to listeners beyond his role as general manager.

He remains a fixture in the lives of many through programs like those were the days on Saturday evenings.

His career has been defined by his efforts to uplift community members, educators and local leaders, ensuring that WRCO remains a vital heartbeat for the area.

As he celebrates this 40 year anniversary, the certificate from Senator Kieske

serves as a formal thank you from a grateful community for his decades of dedication and his unique ability to connect people through the power of radio.

Congratulations Filney.

A casual meeting of potentially affected landowners and concerned citizens of Ritzling County is scheduled for today from 5.30 p.m.

to 7.30 p.m.

at the Old Mill Pond Park Shelter located at 600 West Seminary Street, the site of the Old Community Center.

This gathering serves as a call to action for residents to network share information and support one another as they navigate the looming threat of the proposed BECI mega transmission line.

The 190 mile project has gone.

has come under heavy fire for what critics describe as a blatant lack of transparency.

Mid-continent grid solutions, the developer behind the proposal, has reportedly failed to provide detailed maps or preliminary route information to the approximately 134,000 landowners who could be impacted by the development.

Organized by a nonpartisan non-profit volunteer group, this event aims to empower the community by answering questions and coordinating efforts to demand accountability from out-of-state developers.

Attendees are encouraged to bring their own lawn chairs for seating at the park shelter.

Those snacks and bottled water will be provided for those who joined the discussion.

In Richland Center, a local man is in custody following a chaotic series of events on July 30th that left several properties damaged and led to a coordinated police search through the city.

Chief Billy Jones of the Richland Center Police Department reported that the incident began when officers were dispatched to the 300 block of West Mill Street following reports of a male subject actively destroying property.

Upon their arrival at the scene, law enforcement identified the suspect as 41-year-old Christopher Grubowski of Richland Center.

Witnesses described a scene of significant destruction alleging that Grubowski had been using a metal pipe to smash windows on a

camper and damage other items in the vicinity.

By the time officers arrived, the suspect had already fled the area on foot, prompting the immediate establishment of a police perimeter.

As the search intensified, investigators discovered further damage to a nearby vehicle.

and residents.

The situation escalated when Richland County dispatch received new reports that Robowski had surfaced in another part of the city where he was reported the attempting to engage in physical altercations with others.

Officers quickly shifted their search efforts, tracking the suspect as he continued to evade capture.

The pursuit reached its conclusion south of West 1st Street, where a second perimeter was established.

Officers located Grubowski hiding behind a building and issued multiple verbal commands for his surrender.

After he failed to comply with these orders, officers deployed a taser

to safely take him into custody.

Following a medical evaluation, Grubowski was transported to the Richland County Jail.

The Richland Center Police Department has referred the case to the district attorney with recommendations for charges including criminal damage to property, resisting or obstructing an officer and disorderly conduct.

Chief Jones expressed his gratitude to the Richland County Sheriff's Office and Richland County EMS for their assistance in resolving the incident safely.

While charges have been recommended, Grubowski is presumed innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

City officials in Madison are calling for calm after the removal of an encampment sparked protests and fires.

Mayor Satya Rhodes-Conway says frustration over the police shooting death of 38-year-old Corey Ruiz is understandable, but she condemned actions that she says harm the community.

Police removed an encampment Tuesday at the intersection where Ruiz was killed two weeks ago.

That led to protests, street closures, and three dumpster fires.

Police Chief John Patterson says officers showed restraint despite objects being thrown at them.

Patterson also says rebuilding trust remains a major challenge.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice continues to investigate the shooting.

Governor Tony Evers has signed executive order number 302, mandating that the flags of the United States and the state of Wisconsin be flown at half staff Monday, August 10th.

This order is a tribute to the life and service of Eau Claire Fire Department firefighter Bryce A. Youngbluth, who tragically passed away in the line of duty July 31st.

Young Bluth, who was only 27 years old, died following a sudden medical emergency.

In a statement reflecting on the loss, Governor Evers emphasized Young Bluth's profound commitment to public safety.

He noted that the firefighter was dedicated to helping and protecting others throughout his career.

The governor and First Lady Kathy Evers shared their deepest condolences with Young Bluth's family, particularly his wife, Emma, and their nine-month-old son.

Hayes.

Governor Evers also extended his sympathies to young Bluth's friends, loved ones, and colleagues at both the Eau Claire fire department and the carburel fire rescue department, remarking that his passing leaves a significant void for all.

who served along beside him.

A native of Hayward, Wisconsin, Young Bluth's career in fire service included four years with the Carboro Fire Rescue Department in North Carolina before he returned to Wisconsin to join the Eau Claire fire department in June.

The state of Wisconsin alongside the communities of Eau Claire and Hayward now prepared to mourn the loss.

of a dedicated public servant.

Memorial services for young Bluth are scheduled for Monday, August 10th.

In Hayward, executive order number 302 will remain in effect from sunrise to sunset on that day to honor his memory and sacrifice.

Ken Thied with this week's Richland County history moment right after this.

Frank Hill or in Native American, it's pronounced Ziwaka Kok.

that's spelled X-E-E-W-A-K-A-C-A-K, meaning sacred hills.

And now for a Richland County Historical Society history moment.

Here's the rest of the story.

According to ThreeEagles.org, Frank's Hill.

Frank Shadowwald bequeathed the property known as Frank's Hill to the Three Eagles Foundation upon his untimely death in 2013.

The property includes an effigy mound group on the ridge east of State Highway 193 and a group of small conical mounds that are believed to be calendar mounds on the ridge west of State Highway 193.

Effigy mounds are earthworks in the shapes of birds and animals and other mounds found in Wisconsin are dome-shaped mounds called conical mounds and there are also long narrow mounds that are called linear mounds.

The Effigy Mound civilization lived in Wisconsin from roughly 700 to 1200 AD.

Generally speaking, the mounds at Franks Hill are about 1,000 years old.

The East Hill contains a group of Effigy Mounds thought to represent a coyote, a bison, a bird, a beaver, and a coiled snake.

The Bird Mound also has been interpreted as the pregnant bird woman or the corn lady as she's called.

Because of the direct east-west alignment of the ridge, Hill East is a gathering place to observe equinox sunrises and sunsets.

The panoramic vista is unique to the lower Wisconsin River Valley.

The West Hill contains a series of very small conical-shaped mounds believed to be calendar mounds.

Based on research conducted by Frank Shadowald and his colleagues, the mounds appear to track the setting sun from May 1st

to the summer solstice and back again around August 1st.

This time frame represents the approximate growing season for corn in the latitude of Frank's Hill.

Frank theorized that the calendar mounds assisted with knowledge of the time to plant corn, harvest corn, as well as other significant events, included in the summer solstice or what is said to be the longest day of sunlight of the year.

The Three Eagles Foundation is committed to Frank's philosophy that the mounds should be available for people of all beliefs to visit and experience.

Please be respectful.

Do not walk on the mounds.

Think of them as sacred grounds.

Listen next week for the history of Richland County, covering Double Cola in Richland Center.

Today's history moment is a service of the Richland County Historical Society.

Members of the Historical Society enjoy reminiscing with the Aiki Breaking Newsletter.

A strong membership base keeps the Historical Society viable and active by promoting the study and appreciation of local history, the sponsorship of programs devoted to local history, and the maintenance and access to the Aiki School Museum.

Annual memberships are just $10 for an individual or family, $20 for a business, or $100 for a lifetime individual or family membership.

Memberships can be mailed to Richland County Historical Society, 213 South Central Avenue, apartment number 1, Richland Center, Wisconsin 53581.

You can also learn more at richlandcountyhistoricalsociety.weebly.com.

Thank you Ken.

Senators Tammy Baldwin and Jerry Moran a Republican from Kansas along with a group of colleagues have introduced the supporting underserved and strengthening transparency accountability and integrity now or sustain

340B Act.

This bipartisan legislation seeks to reform the 340B drug pricing program, which provides discounted prescription drugs to healthcare providers serving vulnerable and underserved patients.

The Act aims to bring greater stability, clarity, and transparency to the program by establishing several key reforms.

These include defining eligible patients and covered services

clarifying the use of contract pharmacies and introducing new annual reporting requirements for covered entities.

The legislation also proposes establishing a 340B data clearinghouse to prevent duplicate discounts and diversion while requiring covered entities to adopt standardized financial assistance policies for patients at or below.

200% of the federal poverty level.

Furthermore, the bill strengthens program integrity by granting the Department of Health and Human Services authority to enforce compliance and establishes oversight procedures for child sites.

The Senate 340B bipartisan working group, which has supported the program for over a decade, developed this legislation

following feedback from stakeholders by addressing concerns about program ambiguity and ensuring patient first care, the Sustained 340B Act, intends to sustain the benefits of the program, the benefits the program provides to eligible providers and the communities they serve.

The Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association has officially unveiled the Folk and Field Maker Farms Digital Passport, a premier mobile initiative designed to bridge the gap between modern travelers and the state's rich artisan traditions.

Running from July 30th through December 20th, this curated guide offers a gateway to exclusive hands-on experiences

across rural Wisconsin.

Travelers can immerse themselves in the authentic crafts that define the region, participating in specialized workshops such as traditional cheese making,

butchering, tea blending, felting, and flower arranging.

Sheila Everhart, Executive Director of the Wisconsin Agricultural Tourism Association, emphasizes the cultural significance of the program, noting that while traditional skills often skip a generation, they do not have to be lost.

She explains that by registering for these heritage workshops, attendees can reconnect with genuine rural roots and master new crafts directly from local artisans.

This initiative is about more than just travel.

It is a dedicated effort to preserve the hands-on heritage that serves as the foundation of rural communities.

The passport is designed for maximum ease of use, requiring no app download and providing instant delivery via text and email.

This functionality makes it an ideal companion for weekend road trips, couples getaways, or group outings.

Users have the flexibility to customize their itineraries by filtering the pass by location or specific workshop types.

Beyond the educational value, the passport incentivizes exploration through a points-based system as travelers check in at participating destinations.

To begin their journey, interested participants can sign up for free online at www.wintourism.com.

forward slash passports.

Good evening, everyone, for WRCO News.

I'm Todd Copernall.

The Air Waves and Richland Center felt a little more historic today as Senator Sarah Kieske stopped by our studios to honor a monumental milestone in local broadcasting.

Phil Knee, the beloved general manager and voice of WRCO, was honored for his remarkable 40-year career of dedicated service to the region.

Immediately following her appearance on today's morning show, Senator Kieske presented Phil with a plaque featuring an official certificate of commendation, marking four decades of excellence in broadcasting.

For 40 years, Phil has been a cornerstone of the Richland Center community, bringing music, local news, and essential conversations to listeners.

Beyond his role as general manager, he remains a fixture in the lives of many through programs like Those Were The Days on Saturday Evenings.

His career has been defined by his efforts to uplift community members, educators, and local leaders, ensuring that WRCO remains a vital heartbeat for the area.

As he celebrates this 40-year anniversary, the certificate from Senator Kieske serves as a formal thank you from a grateful community for his decades of dedication and his unique ability to connect people through the power of radio.

Congratulations, Phil Knee!

Senators Tammy Baldwin and Jerry Moran, a Republican from Kansas, along with a group of colleagues, have introduced the Supporting Underserved and Strengthening Transparency Accountability and Integrity Now, or Sustain 340B Act.