Thursday News Roundup

100.9 and 107.7 country and community in Richland Center.

Here's your Daily News

Roundup.

The pack is back and so are Green and Gold Fridays.

Your chance to gear up in team colors to unlock special deals and freebies.

The NFL pre-season starts this week and the Packers are calling on fans everywhere to revive the tradition of Green and Gold Friday.

A chance for the community to rally behind the team as they prepare for the upcoming season.

The Packers kick off their pre-season against the Steelers Thursday night, but you can still support your favorite Packers apparel to work or school on Friday to show your pride and score special discounts.

Local partners like Qdoba and Sitco are stepping up with prizes and deals for anyone decked out in team gear.

Plus, you might even see your photo on the big screen at Lambeau Field.

Share your best fan look on social media using the hashtag GGFriday for a chance to be featured on the team website and on the Tundra Vision video boards during home games throughout the year.

It's not too early to be thinking about deer hunting, as Civic Media's James Kelly tells us, hunters with disabilities should know about an upcoming deadline.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is encouraging hunters with disabilities to confirm their sponsor arrangements before the 2026 gun deer hunt for hunters with disabilities.

According to a press release, the hunt will take place from October 3rd to October 11th.

DNR officials say there are nearly 70,000 acres of sponsored land across the state, so hunters with disabilities should confirm their plans with their hunt sponsor by September 15th.

Eligible hunters can sign up to use one sponsored property each year and they must have a gun deer license.

I'm James Kelly.

for Civic Media News.

The DNR says more than 400 hunters take to the woods each year in Wisconsin through the DNR's Hunters with Disabilities program.

The man shot and killed by Madison Police last month will be laid to rest tomorrow.

A funeral for Corey Ruiz will be held in Madison.

Ben Crump Law announced the service for Ruiz, who was killed on July 22nd, will take place at Fountain of Life Church.

Reverend Al Sharpton is scheduled to give the eulogy, while Ben Crump will deliver the call to justice.

Ruiz was shot near Williamson and Baldwin Streets after officers were called on reports of an alleged burglary attempt, and Ruiz fled on a bicycle.

The encounter led to protests in Madison for weeks.

A woman and her adult son were arrested in Eau Claire this week after an overnight standoff with police.

According to reports, 57-year-old Carrie Nitman and 33-year-old Zane Nitman threatened a young boy who rode past their home on an e-bike and sicked a dog on the child.

Police responded to the scene and engaged in a standoff with the two that ended when they reportedly tried to sneak out of the back of the home and drive away.

Police disabled the vehicle and arrested them.

The owner of a Madison AirBnB that had hidden cameras inside has been found guilty of all charges filed against him.

Patrick Sias pleaded no contest to eight counts of invasion of privacy.

He's scheduled to be sentenced on September 28.

Sias faces up to three years and six months in jail for each charge.

A fifth grade teacher in Kokona has been arrested after being accused of having sexually explicit chats with a minor.

Police say Tai Maki, a teacher from Riverview Middle School, was chatting with a suspected victim online through an app.

He was arrested Monday after detectives executed search warrants.

The Kokona area school district issued a statement saying Maki is on administrative leave.

The investigation is ongoing.

The owner of Tyrol Basin Ski Hill in Madison has pleaded no contest to disorderly conduct.

This comes after Nathaniel McGree was accused of attacking a 17-year-old boy last year and was arrested in February of 2026.

Online court records show he was found guilty of disorderly conduct and a misdemeanor charge of battery was dismissed.

McGree will have to pay off any fees related to the case.

Josie Dagman was sentenced in La Crosse County Court last week to 27 years in prison and 15 years of extended supervision for the 2023 death of her boyfriend's six-year-old son, Elxavier A.J.

Pedron.

Dijkman's convictions include reckless homicide, chronic neglect of a child, and physical abuse of a child.

The convictions followed a two and a half week trial with prosecutors saying Dijkman was responsible for AJ's death.

Dijkman's defense argued AJ's father bore greater responsibility for his death and had abused her.

Dijkman cannot act as a child caretaker while under supervision and needs approval before contacting her other children.

A former Theansville police officer is facing a fine for the mistreatment of animals earlier this year.

Richard McCormick resigned from the department after shooting two dogs in April, leaving one dead.

This week, the district attorney decided against a criminal charge and issued a civil forfeiture instead, meaning McCormick could be fined up to $500.

He's scheduled to be in court in October.

The shooting wasn't reported until June by the Journal Sentinel when three women found the wounded dog and took care of him.

The National Labor Relations Board certified a landslide June 11, 2026 vote by nearly 900 registered nurses at St.

Mary's Hospital in Madison to unionize with SEIU Wisconsin.

Hospital owner SSM Health subsequently appealed the certification to the full board, prolonging a dispute over voter eligibility and election fairness.

The board dismissed the health care provider's objections, but SSM Health says the regional board did not fully investigate concerns about the election process and is exercising its right to appeal under federal labor law.

Spokesperson Lisa Adams.

Spokesperson Lisa Adams says the health system respects employees' right to choose union representation but wants a full review of the election process.

The union election is the largest private sector union vote in recent Wisconsin history with nearly 900 nurses joining.

And that's your state news update.

I'm Connie Feldman for Civic Media News.

The Brewers in LA.

Hi, I'm Mike Clemens with sports baseball.

The Brewers begin a four game series against the Los Angeles Dodgers.

The crew's West Coast trip off to a rough start, losing 4-3 in 11 innings yesterday in San Diego.

The Padres sweeping the Brewers in that series.

NFL, it's the Packers and Steelers on Thursday night football.

Former Packers head coach Mike McCarthy now running the Steelers.

Will this be a memorable

night?

Definitely.

I mean, there's no, you know, there's no doubt about it.

I mean, our history there.

is obviously long and you know the success we had there and so you know it's you get the spots like this you know that the personal relationships are you know that it's the people you think about you know obviously having personal and you know a professional connection to Green Bay is you know that's part of my life but I'm more worried about my pre snap penalties

right now to be honest with it.

That's Steelers head coach Mike McCarthy from Pittsburgh with sports.

I'm Mike Clemens.

Mostly cloudy with scattered showers today are high right around 79 this afternoon tonight Mostly cloudy scattered showers late tonight are low dropping to 62 tomorrow mostly cloudy few scattered off and on showers Maybe a thunderstorm with a high near 80.

I'm meteorologist Sean Cable

That's your news roundup for Richland Center from WRCE and WRCO find more news anytime at WRCO comm and WRCE FM

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

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 there

he is!

Good morning young man!

What's up buddy?

How you doing?

I'm doing fine.

I am back here just above ground being happy.

That's what you gotta do.

You were commenting about your bananas this morning.

Yeah,

yeah, yeah.

You said they're banana bread.

Here's the thing buddy.

Oh, that's not banana bread.

Yeah.

That's a good banana right there.

It's getting, it's getting there.

Would you still eat that?

I'm still eating it today, but it's,

I don't know.

It's getting there.

It looks like it has freckles.

Yes, it does.

But here's the thing.

Stop carrying around in your pocket.

I know that you're afraid that Beau or Todd or myself is going to eat them.

Just put them in your office,

put them in a locked door.

This,

this was not in my pocket.

It was

always, then it

came here, you know, with the vibe.

Oh yeah.

Has it been in the vibe for a while?

Nope.

You've got banana trees in there?

Not yet.

Okay.

No.

That's what I know of.

Anyway.

Uh, any big plans

tonight?

Not really.

No grace

meeting tonight.

No, I

worked

a little bit last night on grace.

Of course it's tomorrow night and I'm not as enthusiastic about the forecast as I was.

It's grace.

They've changed it.

It's grace.

First, it's first scrimmage football.

Oh, yeah.

You know, it's coming.

Right.

You know, it's coming.

But you know what?

Good Lord willing, we'll be fine.

We'll do it.

We'll figure out a way to get through it.

So anyway, uh, did you do anything fun last night?

No, other than just, um, did you remote your yard?

I had to remote mine.

I'm probably going to have to.

Yes.

Maybe this weekend.

Yes.

I was thinking Saturday.

I'm

a once a week man, but

I tell you, it is just grow on like

that.

I shouldn't have.

It's so thick.

Oh, it's, I have to go through it twice.

Yeah.

Me too.

Sisters are tough.

I know.

I know.

I

left streaks.

I had to go kind of back over

it just because it was

just tough to cut.

Yeah.

I go one way and then the next time I go this way.

Oh yeah.

Like a football field or something.

Yeah.

Like kind of like a checkerboard.

Checkerboard.

Yes.

Yes.

So cool deal brother question for you today is what is a rumor that went around about you?

Well the rumor that's been going around for a few years is that I'm retiring and that's not true.

That's not true.

Yeah, we won't let you know.

Well, I good Lord retiring from what hopefully exactly Hopefully have a few good years left

me.

Oh, but I've heard that.

No, you're not retired

You'd be the first to tell us.

Well, I would.

I know you would.

I would.

I know you would.

So, um, let's see here.

Uh, you might be from Peeridge.

Philip, if you've waved at strangers on dirt roads, like you're running for office.

Hey, how you doing?

Do you ever do that?

I wave at everybody.

I do too.

Because you, you may be somebody that, you know, the, the moment you don't, somebody's like, well, there's me.

He sure stuck

up.

Well,

I, he looked at me and he didn't even wave.

I hope it doesn't rain cause he might drown from that one.

Exactly.

So you gotta

wave at everybody.

Hey, you gotta wave at everybody.

Today is game day, Phillip.

Oh yes.

And I have, uh, conquered, you know, we're pretty good at the world's smallest stuff.

Yeah.

Bring it out, Phil.

What is it?

Bring it

out.

Oh,

the

world's tiniest cornhole game.

Oh boy, and it is small.

Wow.

Look at that.

So what you do, you have these little sticks to hold it up here.

Oh boy.

All right.

The little sticks, this, this would work in the Barbie house.

That's

how small they are.

They're small, aren't they?

Oh, look at that.

And that kind of neat.

How come there are, there's six bean bags.

Oh, there they are.

I thought they were before.

Well, I was looking for two more.

Oh, were you?

Yeah.

Because that's what the real game has for us.

So how are we going to do this, Phil?

Are we just going to, you go first, or do we go back and forth?

I don't remember how we do this.

Boy, there's no

beans in the bean

bag.

There's no beans in it.

I think it's all.

It's just a,

yeah, I don't even know what it is.

It's like.

It's a bean bag.

Today we're playing bean bags.

It's not a bean bag.

There's no beans in it.

So we're going to throw six.

We're going to throw six shots.

All right.

All right.

You know what?

Y'all just let you go first.

You can throw all of them.

Throw all of them.

Yep.

Throw all of them.

You know what?

We're going to make this a little fun here.

Oh, really?

Put them together or put it?

Yeah, because they're so small.

You're ready.

My goodness.

Can you get any closer, Phillip?

I'll make a line.

Okay.

Can't go past this.

All right.

Oh, pretty close.

0 for three.

0 for four.

Like this is like the real game.

I know.

Oh,

I got

one.

Oh, bounce down.

So we got one.

One.

You got one in?

I know, but that'd be three.

We're going with one.

Oh, you want to go with one?

Yes.

All right.

Are you

ready?

All right.

Oh, you're going to put, what do you, can't put them that close.

That's not fair.

All right.

Wait.

Oh, I have my hand there.

That

was

going in.

Okay.

Ready?

It was not.

There you go.

He misses to the left.

He misses to the middle.

He misses over.

He misses to, he got it on the board.

Oh, so what do you get if it's on the board?

A half.

I got one for getting

it on the

board.

You get a half.

Here we go.

One more round here.

I can see what you can do.

One little guy fell off.

I see that.

Oh boy.

Whoever dreamed up this one.

Yeah.

Did this cost you at 99 cents?

I don't know if it cost you that.

Gas station.

They're bouncing on it's like the real game for me There are these guys that just make me sick.

I know

drop it on every time we're in and I'm like left right over look out everybody

My daughter's really good at this I gotta get one in the tie-fill if not all right, all right It's two weeks in a row that you win.

Well, that'd be something wouldn't it?

Yeah, I'm on a roll.

Oh, he misses short

he misses short he misses oh he got it in one in one so we're tied and missed way over the top now what i don't know put a runner at second base put a

runner at second base all right here we go real game now

which i'm totally against that by the way

are you stupid major league baseball rules all right here we go yeah what are we doing now we're just gonna play regular we're gonna play three we gotta break the tie

play regular all right here we go

Boy, that's that's a long throw almost almost This

could go on forever.

It's okay.

It's we have a couple minutes.

All right.

It could go on forever

though Yeah, but you know what there's nothing better than mini cornhole with Phil on right on the radio.

It's just nothing.

Yeah, it's perfect.

Yeah.

Oh He hit the board I hit the board.

Oh

I don't think this is ever going to go.

You don't think it's gonna.

How do we ever get one in?

Well, what can we do here, Phillip?

Thumb wrestle?

Yeah, we could do that.

One, two,

three, four.

I declare a thumb war.

Is that

what you do?

Yeah.

Is that the peerage rules?

No, it's just one, two, three and

then go.

No, no, no, no,

no.

No, that's not.

One, two, three, four.

I declare a thumb war.

I've never heard

that

one before.

I don't

think.

I'm just going to hide over here.

Phil is very aggressive here.

Got him.

Phil wins again, two weeks in a row.

That's my second wrestling win.

I

won one in the sixth grade tournament.

Against who?

I don't know this

guy.

The

forefoot?

I came out and the guy started laughing so hard and I just pushed him over the

pin.

It was a quick win.

What are we going to do with ourselves?

I don't know.

You know, here's the thing.

just realizes the other day.

I've gone my whole life and misspelling fruit loops.

Did you realize that fruit loops are spelled F-R-O-O-T

loops?

I never realized that.

I can, that's, you know, dad got one else somewhere from Arkansas and they dug up.

I'm

guessing.

There's this light bulb moment like fruit loops or something.

What?

Yes.

How

did I never, I missed that.

June won't buy him from anymore, but when I was a kid, I just never realized that.

Oh, well,

what do you do?

Here's your, uh, five questions.

Five questions.

Your hot, your hot questions.

Okay.

If you were a mascot, what business would you accidentally represent, Phil?

Boy, that's a good, you know, maybe ski.

Yeah.

Right.

I don't know what the mascot would be.

They used to be a, somebody's water skiing.

Oh yeah.

Hmm.

You were forced to eat the same breakfast forever.

How long would you, how long before you complain on air?

I basically

do.

You do.

I have

a banana at

a granola

bar at a granola bar.

Yeah.

Yeah.

But how long would it be if you probably, I

don't know, a few months, maybe.

Yeah.

If your life have a, if your life had a loading screen, what tip would it show?

Like if, you know, when you load something, what tip would it show?

I don't know.

I guess I don't have a clue.

Listen to those were the days on Saturday night.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Buy more oval team.

What song would be the worst one to hear first thing in the morning?

Oh

boy.

I'm trying to think.

There's a lot of them.

There's a lot of them.

I probably played it this

morning.

You probably

did.

Yeah.

I don't know.

Yeah.

I'm looking for an alarm clock.

It says it's hard to be humble.

Oh, that would be, that wouldn't be a good one either.

Number 10 or not.

Your fifth question.

If mornings had a sound effect, what would yours be?

Mine be.

Oh boy.

I know what it's snap, crackle and pop,

baby.

Probably the trumpet playing.

It's a

revelry, revelry, revelry,

revelry, starting like you.

Yes.

Yeah.

There you go.

We used to do that too.

Listen to that in the name.

Oh, yes.

Wake you up.

Wake you up here.

Um, Captain Kirk never said, be me up, Scotty.

And any Star Trek episode, did you know that?

That

is

true.

Yeah.

It was Mr. Scott.

Mr. Scott.

Yeah.

Be me up or whatever he said.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Captain Kirk never said

that.

The high bird offspring of a zebra crossed with another equine is called a z-boyed.

Is that

right?

No, that's true.

Is it true?

Yes.

I've never heard that, just like I've never known that fruit loops are spelled F-R-O-O-T.

That's just really shocked you, didn't it?

Zebroid.

Zebroid.

Yeah.

Huh.

Wow.

Okay.

Mantis shrimp have the most complex eyes in the animal kingdom.

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

True that's a true fact true true fact.

It's all about facto today.

It

is no hanko.

That's all hanko.

That's all fact over there.

That's a bunch of Philo right there

Philo Philo.

That's a dough, isn't it?

I don't know Philo dough.

It's Philo.

Do you have any grape upon most?

Do you remember those commercials?

Pardon me.

Do you have any grape upon?

Do you have any grape upon?

Made famous in Wayne's world when they pull

up.

Is that what

it was?

Well, it was the commercial but Wayne's world of

the pacer pulls up alongside some guys limo when

they say

that.

Do you have any grip upon?

All right, let's see here.

Thursday's love line.

Today is August 13th, buddy.

All right.

Try to use this one on Jim.

All right.

I love you so much.

I'd let you pick the radio station for the whole song.

Really?

Yeah.

That right there would, that right there would, would get you.

Yeah.

Well, maybe.

I'm going to listen to what I want anyway.

Right.

Exactly.

Yeah.

But you know what?

At least you could offer it.

That's true.

You

know what?

Probably listening to something else right now.

Oh,

well, anyway, my friend, I hope you have a great day.

Remember the Packers play tonight.

Grace tomorrow night.

All kinds of thongs, opening scrimmages for football also tomorrow night.

Shouldn't be this time of year.

It is up on us.

So anyway, and I brought you some hand signals for the

Football that way, you know, so.

Yeah.

So now every time the official makes the call, I'll, I'll, I even put the yardage in there for the, I know that, uh, TV radio timeout.

I do that for you.

Do you?

Yeah.

I've never seen that.

Really?

They don't, they don't think about portal radio guys.

You notice I do though.

Yeah.

Every time I'm umpiring or something, I always, you always give me a thumbs

up.

Yep.

Yeah, there are a lot of empires to do.

They'll check.

Hey, you guys ready, but there are a lot that don't, they'll start at quarter to five or whatever.

And

I don't do that.

I was like, come

on.

You said five o'clock.

Yeah.

They don't start football games early.

No, they don't.

And they don't start basketball games or

tournament

games.

They don't start early.

None.

Right.

And they're not supposed to.

And they did it this year with baseball.

So they did.

So that's our complaint.

Yep.

I did.

I did complain to him.

And

you should.

Yeah.

I don't know if I'm sure Todd addressed it or will address it.

So

well, hopefully he's retiring.

January, I guess it is.

He's been good for

us.

He has

been

a good friend.

My friend,

have a

good day and be kind.

You bet.

In the news today, the 2026 Governor's Blue Ribbon livestock auction successfully raised a total of $405,036 to support junior livestock exhibitors at the Wisconsin State Fair.

This significant investment in the next generation of agricultural leaders was further bolstered by the Blue Ribbon Sale of Champions Foundation, which awarded $57,000 in scholarships and an additional

$30,000 toward various junior exhibitor awards and recognition programs.

Highlighting a new chapter of support, the Foundation also launched the Youth Impact Grant Program this year, providing $22,500 in financial assistance to empower youth across beef, swine, sheep, and goat projects.

Together, these initiatives underscore a powerful commitment

to the educational and professional development of Wisconsin's young agricultural enthusiasts.

Congratulations to area young people.

Brindolin Kenable of Richland Center who received a $3,000 Governors' Blue Ribbon Livestock Arts and Scholarship.

Sydney Cherney of Waniwak who exhibited the champion Hampshire Barrow and Maggie Kirschner of Lone Rock, Exhibitor of the champion Shorthorn Steer.

Christopher B. Brugger Jr.

was sentenced to 18 years in prison, followed by 15 years of extended supervision today in Dane County Circuit Court, following a jury conviction on multiple felony charges.

The legal proceedings highlight a series of offenses related to a high-speed incident that occurred in October 2025.

During the April 2026 trial, the jury found Brugger guilty on numerous counts, including multiple instances of operator fleeing or eluding an officer that resulted in great bodily harm, hit and run involving great bodily harm, and reckless driving causing great bodily harm.

The charges stem from an incident where Brugger crashed into the squad car of police officer Ryan Kimberley,

causing significant injuries and also injuring Kimberley's canine partner.

Judge Diane Schlipper presided over the case with Melville Peter Middleton II serving as the defendant's current legal counsel.

The defendant, who has remained in custody throughout the proceedings, awaits his final sentencing hearing, which concludes a complex legal timeline that included several changes in representation and multiple pretrial motions.

The Wisconsin State Building Commission led by Governor Tony Evers has recently approved an extensive suite of building projects totaling approximately $374 million.

These investments authorized during a meeting at State Fair Park span state-owned facilities and properties across the entire state.

Governor Evers emphasized that these approvals represent a continuation of an eight-year effort to support generational development, ensuring that state institutions, parks, and University of Wisconsin campuses are resilient and better equipped to serve students, state employees, and visitors for decades to come.

A major highlight of the approved measures is the strategic sale of the Jeff 2 and Jeff 3 facilities in Madison.

This move aligns with the administration's vision 2030 plan to consolidate office space and reduce taxpayer costs, ultimately shedding over 135,000 square feet and avoiding an estimated $213 million in necessary modern repairs.

Infrastructure reliability also took over center stage with the approval

of phase two utility improvements at the Mendota Mental Health Institute and a multi-building telecommunications cable replacement project at UW Parkside.

Additionally, the Commission prioritized safety through a fire sprinkler system retrofit at UW La Crosse and the reconstruction of the century old Paterson State Park Dam, which recently suffered a breach due to heavy rainfall.

The approved funding also addresses critical service and educational needs

In Crandon, a 1930s-era fire response ranger station will be replaced to enhance emergency services across five counties.

For veterans, the commission authorized a significant upgrade to the food service and laundry facilities at the Wisconsin Veterans Home at King.

Higher education will see notable advancements with the construction of a modernized UW-Madison Veterinary Diagnostic Lab in Barron County.

the renovation of Lapham Hall at UW-Milwaukee into an active learning classroom and new athletic and cadaver laboratories at UW-Green Bay.

Collectively, these initiatives along with 37 separate maintenance projects across 16 counties represent a comprehensive commitment to protecting and improving Wisconsin's public assets.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice alongside a multi-state coalition

has achieved a landmark legal triumph against the U.S.

Department of Housing and Urban Development.

This victory effectively blocks an unlawful attempt by the federal government to cap funding for permanent housing projects, a move that would have placed some of the state's most vulnerable residents at risk of homelessness.

By successfully challenging these policy changes in court, the coalition has ensured that up to 1,300 individuals in Wisconsin can remain in their homes, preserving a vital safety

for those experiencing housing insecurity.

For decades HUD has prioritized the Housing First model

focusing on rapid placement into permanent residences without imposing restrictive prerequisites like sobriety or minimum income levels.

However, recent administrative shifts sought to undermine this commitment by redirecting billions of dollars toward transitional housing and other programs.

Attorney General Call emphasized the importance of this when noting that it marks the second time legal action has stopped federal efforts from destabilizing programs designed to

address the root causes of homelessness in local communities.

The legal battle spanned several months and multiple federal court rulings.

Following a separate victory in Rhode Island earlier this year, HUD attempted to circumvent previous rulings by creating a $1.3 billion set aside for new projects.

This tactical shift threatened the housing stability of approximately 97,000 residents across the nation.

Last week, the U.S.

District Court for the District of Rhode Island ruled that these funding restrictions were unlawful and could not be implemented, solidifying a major defense for permanent supportive housing programs nationwide.

Political advertising is surging toward a record-breaking 2026.

with PQ media forecasting total media spending to hit $15.3 billion.

This figure represents a 46.3% increase compared to the 2022 midterm elections and slightly edges out the spending seen during the 2024 presidential cycle.

According to reports cited by Inside Radio, analysts expect more than 60% of this budget totaling $9.38 billion to enter media markets following Labor Day.

The rise in spending is driven by an intense political landscape marked by record fundraising, highly competitive primaries, and numerous open-seat contests.

PQ Media notes that federal races will capture the bulk of this investment with Senate and House campaigns,

combined projected to account for over 62% of total media buying.

Specifically, Senate races are slated for $5.38 billion, while house races are expected to generate $4.16 billion.

Gubernatorial contests are also set to see significant activity, with $3.2 billion in anticipated spending, providing broadcasters with opportunities to reach voters across entire states.

The Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions, DFI, has joined state financial agencies from 47 states and the District of Columbia in announcing a $15.5 million settlement with Nurez LLC, one of the nation's largest mortgage servicers.

The agreement resolves allegations that the company improperly imposed forest-placed insurance costs on thousands of borrowers who already maintained

active homeowners insurance policies.

A multi-state examination revealed that Nurez wrongly applied these insurance charges to more than 4,200 borrowers, resulting in consumer harm exceeding $4.5 million.

Force-placed insurance is typically a high-cost alternative intended only for situations where a homeowner's coverage has lapsed.

However, regulators found that Nurez failed to recognize existing active policies, leading to unnecessary and excessive financial burdens for affected homeowners.

Under the settlement terms, the Fort Washington Pennsylvania-based company has already remediated over $4.5 million to impacted borrowers.

In addition to these refunds, new REZ will pay approximately $11 million in penalties and costs.

Beyond the financial penalties, the servicer is required to implement rigorous new controls and conduct enhanced monitoring for any loans subject to forced-placed insurance to prevent future compliance failures.

DFI Division of Banking Administrator Kim Swissdorf emphasized that the settlement highlights the effectiveness of networked supervision among state regulators by sharing resources and conducting comprehensive examinations.

State agencies were able to prioritize consumer protection and ensure that mortgage servicers are held accountable for their internal oversight.

Nurez cooperated with the enforcement team, which was led by the District of Columbia with assistance from several other

states.

Wisconsin residents with questions regarding the enforcement action or those seeking to verify a company's license are encouraged to contact the DFI's mortgage banking section.

The DFI remains committed to ensuring that consumers are not held responsible for unwanted and redundant insurance costs imposed by financial institutions.

Sock County Public Health has announced a partnership with O'Connell Pharmacy to host a dedicated back-to-school vaccine clinic Thursday, August 20th.

The event will take place at the West Square Building in Baraboo, located at 505 Broadway Street, Room B24 from 3 p.m.

until 6 p.m.

To make the experience more enjoyable for younger attendees, children who receive their vaccinations will be eligible to choose from a variety of prizes which include coupons for culvers and day passes to the Baraboo Children's Museum.

The clinic is designed to be inclusive offering services to several different groups.

Children and adolescents age 18 and under can receive vaccines regardless of their insurance status, though most insurance plans are accepted.

Insured adults age 19 and older are also welcome to attend with a wide range of providers covered.

Additionally, a limited supply of vaccines will be available for adults without insurance provided they are residents of Sauk County.

Rebecca Sidlowski, a public health nurse for Public Health County, emphasized the importance of the initiative, noting that it can often be challenging for families to secure appointments with primary care providers during the busy back-to-school season.

She stated that ensuring children are up to date on their immunizations is a vital step in helping them begin the academic year

healthy and fully prepared for their various school activities.

While registration for the clinic is not mandatory, interested individuals can sign up in advance.

For those with specific questions regarding the event, O'Connell Pharmacy can be reached by phone at 608-837-5949.

The universities of Wisconsin have announced a comprehensive set of budget proposals for the 2027 through 2029 cycle aimed at bolstering the state's economic future through targeted investments in workforce development.

and entrepreneurship, led by Regent President Kyle Weatherly and Interim President Renee Wachter.

University leaders introduced the Tech for Tomorrow and Accelerate Wisconsin initiatives.

These programs are designed to meet Wisconsin's evolving labor needs by aiming to produce 300,000 career-ready workers and upskilling 1 million existing employees for higher quality jobs over the next decade.

Interim President Wachter emphasized that these proposals leverage the university system's long-standing role in solving state challenges by focusing on education and people.

The budget seeks to bridge current workforce gaps while providing the necessary capital and support to foster

2,500 new businesses.

The Tech for Tomorrow initiative specifically focuses on accelerating the transition of laboratory research into commercialized products while Accelerate Wisconsin is geared toward providing entrepreneurs with the resources needed to expand markets and develop innovative products.

In addition to these core initiatives, the UWs are proposing UW for you to enhance continuing and online education alongside you succeed, which focuses on vital student support services like career advising.

Leaders from UW Milwaukee, UW Stout, and UW Parkside have rallied behind these workforce-oriented goals.

Highlighting the critical role the university system plays in sparking innovation.

The full budget proposal, which seeks to transform the state's entrepreneurial landscape and talent pipeline, is scheduled for a vote by the UW Board of Regents next week.

AI-powered scams are surging in Wisconsin and costing victims far more money.

The Better Business Bureau reports that from January through July reports of AI related scams jumped 238% compared to the same period last year.

The average loss climbed from about $778 to more than $5,500.

The BBB says scammers are using AI tools like voice cloning,

deep fake videos and fake investment platforms to appear legitimate.

Officials urge consumers to verify claims independently and avoid sharing personal or financial information with unexpected contacts.

And now for Richland County Historical Society history moment.

Here's the rest of the story.

According to a February 19th, 2026 post,

titled TBT, which is a throwback Thursday article, a column done by Keith Rhett and dated three seven twenty nineteen.

The roots of soda pop industry in Richland Center began in the early nineteen hundreds when Cy Fry had the first so-called pop factory.

It was located in the back of his little store just east of the railroad tracks on Mill and Union streets.

William Robbins purchased the fry factory in 1915 and then a year later in 1916 he bought the property directly south of the Park Hotel in which he moved the bottling works.

Robbins operated the Richland bottling works until July of 1936 when he sold it to E. F. Moore, president of Nettling Corporation.

In 1937, Paul E. Nettlund became the president of the firm and continued the operations until selling it to Byron Clarkson in 1954.

In 1929, Byron Clarkson and his wife, Letha, established and operated Clarkson's Dairy Products in Richland Center.

It was eventually sold to Goldbond Ice Cream Company in 1953.

In 1954, in search of a new challenge, Byron made the decision to buy Netland's double cola bottling plant, which was still located next to the Park Hotel on Central Avenue.

It was around the corner from what was Clarkson's ice cream plant, which is now referred to as Goldblonde.

Clarkson's first order of business was to move the plant from Central Avenue into a new structure which he built at the end of East Kinder Street across from his east side home that was located on Paradise Hill Farm just east of the town of Richland Center.

In this new modern building, Clarkson installed an assembly line, new bottles, and added double cola as his line.

Clarkson also added ski,

dad's root beer, Werner's ginger ale, and an entire line of his own flavored of bottled pop called hillbilly beverages.

These changes came along with new distribution routes helped by Clarkson to transform a business that had previously been a seasonal business operating during the warm summer months.

It was now a full time year round industry and enabled Clarkson to grow the company from an annual gross

of $12,000 in 1954 to an annual gross of a quarter of a million dollars by 1961.

The Clarksons operated their double-cold business in the same manner by which they had operated their ice cream business with Byron concerning himself with the operation of the plant and Letha handling the bookkeeping and office work.

The Clarksons had two children, a son, Lee Henry, known as Hank Clarkson, and a daughter, Mrs. Becky Ann Howard.

Hank Clarkson was an active partner with his parents and assumed ownership of the business upon their parents' retirement.

The Clarksons grew their business from a localized distribution system into a territory that extended west of the Mississippi, south of Grand County and Lafayette County, into Iowa County

and as far north as Wisconsin Dells, including much of the lower Wisconsin River Valley.

Distribution was handled by a fleet of four full-time trucks with a combined capacity of 880 cases that would operate five days a week.

A major segment of their operation

which contributed to making it a year-round business, involved the sales and service of pop vending machines and pre-mixed dispensers, which were located throughout the area's schools and public buildings, even in restaurants and filling stations around the area.

The Clarksons strove to keep up the latest developments and innovations in their industry and work quick to install new lines, bottle washers, as well as adding new products such as non-returnable bottles and cans.

Hank Carson continued the operation of double cola plant until 1986.

Listen next week for the history of Richland County covering the Stump Dodger and the Tunnel at

Tunnelville.

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

Members of the Historical Society enjoy reminiscing with the Ake Breakie 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 Ake 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 one, Richland Center, Wisconsin, 535-81.

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

Thank you.

As always, Ken Thede, I definitely remember the Hillbilly Pop Ski, Dad's, and Double Cola we used to pick up from the mobile station in Richland Center.

The Wisconsin Judicial Commission has filed a formal complaint against Winnebago County Circuit Court Judge Scott C. Walt, alleging multiple instances of willful judicial misconduct.

Following a comprehensive investigation, the commission found probable cause that Judge Bolt violated several Supreme Court rules governing judicial conduct, including failing to observe high standards of integrity and demeaning the judicial office.

These findings stem from a series of incidents involving inappropriate public comments, retaliatory behavior toward local attorneys, and the unprofessional treatment of an expert witness during court proceedings.

The core allegations detailed in the complaint include a 2023 media interview where Judge Wolff compared his judicial work to dealing with, quote, society's garbage and subsequent post-election confrontations with attorneys who did not support his reelection campaign.

In one instance, the judge reportedly told an attorney they were, quote, dead to me and suggested a financial payment could resolve the personal cost of the election.

Additionally, the Commission highlights a June 2023 hearing where Judge Wolt allegedly spoke disparagingly to an experienced psychiatrist, questioning her English proficiency and telling her to

Get off her butt when rising for the court, which the Commission argues demonstrated a lack of patience, dignity, and courtesy.

In light of these alleged violations of the Code of Judicial Conduct, the Commission is now seeking the appointment of a three-judge panel by the Chief Judge of the Court of Appeals.

This panel will be tasked with making formal findings of fact and conclusions of law, eventually providing a recommendation for discipline to the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

Judge Bolt is required to file a response to these allegations within 45 days as the legal process moves toward a resolution regarding his standing within the Wisconsin judiciary.

As the Wisconsin deer hunting season approaches, the Department of Natural Resources is issuing a critical warning regarding the use of ash trees for tree stands.

The widespread infestation of the emerald ash borer has left ash trees across all 72 counties in a state of decay.

In the southern two-thirds of the state, most ash trees are already dead or dying, while northern populations are seeing a rapid expansion of the past.

Because these trees are structurally compromised, they pose a significant danger to hunters.

Infested ash trees are prone to unexpectedly dropping large branches or even snapping at the trunk.

especially during windy conditions.

Bill McNeigh, a DNR forest health specialist, emphasizes that since it is often difficult to visually confirm an infestation, hunters should simply avoid ash trees entirely when selecting a location for their stands.

Safety in the field extends beyond tree selection as approximately one in four bull hunters has experienced a fall or near fall from an elevated position.

To mitigate these risks,

Hunters must adhere to fundamental safety protocols.

The most vital rule is to always wear a full-body harness or fall arrest system and ensure it is connected to a shorter tethered line.

This system is designed to keep a hunter safely in their seat rather than catching them mid-fall.

Additionally, maintaining three points of contact such as two hands and one foot while climbing is essential for stability.

Hunters should also utilize a haul line to safely raise and lower

unloaded equipment including firearms and bows and remain connected to a lifeline from the moment they leave the ground until they return.

Beyond personal safety, hunters play a pivotal role in protecting the broader ecosystem by preventing the spread of forest pests and diseases.

When traveling to hunting grounds, it is imperative to obtain firewood near the destination rather than transporting it from home.

This practice reduces the likelihood of spreading invasive species like the emerald ash borer, spongy moth, or oak wilt.

Opting for dry firewood with loose bark or purchasing certified treated wood are the most responsible choices.

By combining vigilant tree selection, rigorous stand safety, and careful firewood sourcing, Wisconsin hunters can ensure a safer season for themselves and the forests they enjoy.

Today is August 13th.

These are today's vital statistics.

James R. Jim Hansel, 97 of the town of Henrietta died June 30th at home.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, August 15th at Mick Memorial Park in Hub City.

Visitation will be from 11 a.m.

until noon.

A memorial service will follow.

There will be a time of Uker playing and karaoke following the service in tribute to Jim.

Burial will be in St.

Patrick's Cemetery in Melantha Creek.

Memorials may be directed to Mick Memorial Park.

James R. Jim Hansel, 97 of the town of Henrietta.

Paul J. Roberts, 54 of Soldiers Grove, died unexpectedly July 20 in La Crosse from complications during heart surgery.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, August 15 at Community of Christ Church in Soldiers Grove at 12 noon.

A visitation will be held from 10 a.m.

until the time of service.

Roth Family Cremation Center and Funeral Services is assisting the family.

Paul is survived by his mother Kaye and Corey Jones, Fr.

Bruce Cornwell and Randy Roberts.

Paul J. Roberts, 54 of Soldiers Grove.

Irma M. Hansen Miller, 91 of Blue River, died Thursday, August 6 at Schmitwilden Hills after a short illness.

Funeral services will be held Monday, August 17th at 11 a.m.

at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Basswood Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Monday, August 17th at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 9 a.m.

until the time of service at 11.

Irma M. Hansen Miller, 91 of Blue River.

Raymond James Ray Bass, 77 of rural Richland County died Monday, August 10th at home.

A celebration of life will be held at 6 p.m.

Tuesday, August 18th at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with military honors to be provided by the Viola American Legion Post 447.

A visitation will be held Tuesday, August 18th at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 4 p.m.

until the time of service at 6 p.m.

Memorials in raised name can be directed to the Viola-fired Kikapu Rescue Squad or Viola American Legion Post 447.

the Pratt funeral and cremation services assisting the family with arrangements.

Raymond James Ray Bass 77 of rural Richland County.

Eileen Catherine Hegg Eberle 95 of Lone Rock died August 8th in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

A funeral mass will be held Thursday, August 20th at 11 a.m.

at St.

John's Catholic Church in Spring Green, immediately followed by a luncheon at the Wisconsin Riverside Resort in Spring Green from 12 p.m.

until 2 p.m.

with burial at 2.30 p.m.

in the St.

Killian's Cemetery.

Visitation will be held Wednesday, August 19th from 4 p.m.

to 7 p.m.

at St.

John's Catholic Church and again Thursday from 10 a.m.

until the time of mass.

Eileen Catherine Hegg-Eberle 95 of Lone Rock.

Good morning, everyone, for WRCO News.

I'm Todd Copernall, 70 degrees in Richland Center right now.

Some fogs still hanging in under cloudy skies.

Forecast says we're headed to a high of 77 today.

In the news this morning, in a proactive move to strengthen the local safety net for mental health, the Richland Hospital and Clinics recently conducted a safe talk suicide prevention training session for staff and educators within the Richland School District.

The initiative directly addresses needs identified in the 2025 Community Health Needs Assessment, which highlighted mental health support as a critical priority based on extensive public feedback.

The four-hour workshop hosted in the lower level of the Richland Hospital

was facilitated by TRHC's Suicide Prevention Task Force.

The SAFE Talk Program, where SAFE stands for Suicide Alertness for Everyone, is designed to empower ordinary citizens with the skills to recognize warning signs and intervene effectively.

Participants are trained in the talk action steps, tell, ask, listen, and keep safe.

By teaching these practical maneuvers, the program aims to replace the common feelings of helplessness associated with suicide, with the confidence to initiate life-saving conversations and connect those in distress with professional support.

Organizers and participants alike emphasize that preventing tragedy is a shared responsibility that extends beyond clinical settings.

Representatives from the school district noted that educators are uniquely positioned to notice when a student or colleague is struggling, making this training an invaluable tool for campus safety.

Trainers from the Southwestern Wisconsin Community Action Program

praised the engagement of the Richland Center staff, noting that their dedication is a testament to the community's resolve to support its members.

The TRHC Suicide Prevention Task Force remains committed to expanding these educational opportunities, ensuring that mental health remains at the forefront of community wellness efforts.

Dust off your musical theater knowledge and gather your brightest friends for an unforgettable evening at the Phoenix Center in Richland Center Saturday, August 15th.

The RCHS Theater Department is thrilled to host a high-energy trivia night and silent auction.

This exciting community event serves as a vital fundraiser to support the upcoming production of the smash hit musical

Mamma Mia, ensuring our talented students have the resources they need to bring this fun story to life on stage.

The festivities begin with registration from 6 p.m.

to 6 30 p.m., giving you plenty of time to browse the unique items available in the silent auction before the main event kicks off.

The trivia competition officially starts at 7 p.m., promising rounds of challenging questions and friendly rivalry.

Whether you are a local history buff or a pop culture expert, there's something for everyone to enjoy as we celebrate the local arts scene.

Participation is just $10 per person.

Teams can have up to eight people to maximize the fund.

Every dollar raised through entry fees and auction bids goes directly toward the RCHS Theater Department, funding costumes, sets, and technical equipment for the hardworking performers.

The four-peat sake community is ready for the highly anticipated day in the park, taking place this Sunday at the Spring Green Municipal Park.

This celebratory event begins at 8 a.m.

with the run, walk, bike, and pickleball tournament activities.

Participants who missed the pre-registration deadline can still sign up on site at 7.30 a.m.

although t-shirts will not be available for late registrants.

The festivities expand at 11 a.m.

with an exciting lineup of live music,

food and family-friendly entertainment.

The stage will feature a variety of bands throughout the day, concluding with a performance by the Solstice Jazz Band.