Friday News Roundup

100.9 and 107.7 country and community in Richland Center.

Here's your Daily News Roundup.

For Civic Media News, I'm Connie Feldman.

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.

A come from behind win for the crew.

High on Mike Clemens with sports baseball.

The Brewers down 4-2.

Scored three runs in the ninth to beat the Dodgers in LA last night.

5-4.

Game two of the four game series is tonight.

NFL, the Packers lose to the Steelers in Pittsburgh.

28-9.

Quarterback Jordan Love did play in the game, leading the Packers on a 10-play drive.

The resulted in the first of three trace-smack field goals.

Man, it was awesome.

You know, I think that was definitely the highlight of the night, hitting two

58 yard field goals.

So that was awesome, you know, making all his kicks.

You know, I'm happy for him.

That was definitely the highlight of the night right there.

Love chatted with Aaron Rodgers before the game.

Matt LaFleur got to visit with the Steelers new head coach, Mike McCarthy, but not Rodgers.

Yeah, I mean, I didn't get to say hello to him.

That was a bummer.

I was hoping to see him, but certainly a guy that I've got a ton of respect for.

And, you know, as long as he's not playing the Green Bay Packers, always root for

him.

That's Packers head coach Matt LaFleur from Pittsburgh with sports.

I'm Mike Clemens.

We have a chance of isolated showers and thunderstorms today with a high right around 80 this afternoon.

Tonight scattered showers or a thunderstorm with a low dropping into the low to mid 60s.

Tomorrow scattered showers and thunderstorms with a high in the upper 70s to low 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.

Good morning, everyone, for WRCO News.

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

The forecast does call for a 30% chance of showers late today, increasing as the evening gets here.

So I'll start with this story.

Greater Richland Area Cancer Elimination will be holding the Walk with Grace tonight at Crossco Park in Richland Center.

Cancer Survivor Registration will begin at four o'clock and those in attendance can start getting bitter numbers.

for the silent auction and bucket raffle.

Silent auction bidding and bucket raffle ticket sales will get underway as well.

At six o'clock, the opening ceremony will be held.

During the ceremony, this year's ambassadors, Gary Schwartz, Mike Bradford, Lila Babe Kraska, and Nancy Geer will be recognized.

The opening lap featuring survivors and caretakers will also be held.

At nine o'clock, the luminary ceremony will start.

Names on each luminary will be read at that time.

Following the ceremony, the final lap will be held.

All are welcome to attend the 23rd annual Walk with Grace tonight, starting at 4 o'clock at Croskup Park in Richland Center.

More information can be found at walkwithgrace.com.

If there is rain...

The event would be moved to the Richland Center High School Gymnasium.

At this point, the plan is to be outdoors at the park like it is every year.

Stay tuned to WRCO this afternoon.

If there is an announcement, we'll have it for you as soon as we get it.

A woman is currently in stable condition following a stabbing incident in Vernon County that occurred Wednesday morning.

Authorities received a report around 9 a.m.

regarding a female patient

who had been admitted to the emergency room at Amplify Health in La Crosse suffering from multiple stab wounds.

Law enforcement officials have confirmed that a suspect is in custody and is awaiting formal charges.

The Verna County Sheriff's Department is actively assisting with the ongoing investigation.

Officials have stated that this was an isolated incident and there is no ongoing danger to the public.

Out of respect for the investigation, names and additional specific details are currently being withheld, according to Westby Police Chief Scott Stuber.

After confirming two cases of measles in the state on Wednesday, the Wisconsin Department of Health Sciences has confirmed the number of confirmed cases has grown to 15.

The two initial cases were in Iowa and Lafayette counties.

All 13 of the new cases are in Iowa County.

Citizens are urged to check their immunization records and to stay home if they're experiencing symptoms.

Health officials state the measles vaccine is 97% effective against the disease.

The source of the spread of the virus has not yet been identified, but the new cases have come in people who had not traveled outside the state, which means the virus has been transmitting locally.

Following a federal executive order issued on August 10th regarding routine childhood vaccination schedules, Wisconsin Department of Health Services Secretary

Kirsten Johnson has affirmed that the state will maintain its established approach to immunization guidance.

Secretary Johnson emphasized that the DHS continues to rely on systematic and transparent reviews of scientific evidence to inform updates for parents, health care providers and public health agencies.

Despite the recent federal action, the department's position remains unchanged and they continue to support the childhood and adolescent immunization schedules

published by the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Family Physicians.

The DHS expressed deep concern regarding the lack of scientific evidence in recent statements from top federal officials.

Secretary Johnson noted that health professionals and parents

deserve accurate and credible information, asserting that no new scientific evidence exists to justify changing recommendations that have long protected children across the United States.

Wisconsin health officials remain committed to providing guidance that reflects a careful evaluation of benefits and risks, ensuring families can access preventative care while maintaining the trust of the public.

The Richland School District Board of Education met on Wednesday to discuss and finalize various administrative matters for the upcoming academic period.

During this meeting, the board officially approved the hiring of Jordan Gallion, who will join the district as a special education teacher for the 2026-27 school year.

The Richland Charter School's governance board will convene for a meeting Tuesday, August 18th at 3.45 p.m.

The session is set to take place at the partner school, located at 1000 US Highway 14 West in Richland Center.

This gathering provides an important opportunity for board members and the public to engage with the ongoing operations and strategic direction of the district's charter programs.

The agenda for the afternoon includes several key items, starting with a registration period for public comments.

Following the opening formalities and approval of the minutes from the previous meeting, the board will review the latest financial reports.

A significant portion of the meeting will be dedicated to information and discussion, featuring specialized governance board training led by Dan Lathrop.

Additionally, attendees will receive progress updates regarding both the HIVE and partner schools.

before the meeting concludes.

The city of Verroqua is proud to announce the appointment of Julie Emsley as the community's new city administrator.

Bringing more than 16 years of dedicated experience in economic and community development, Emsley is set to begin her official duties on September 15th.

Her professional journey began with a master's degree in rural development from the University of Alaska Fairbanks, earned through the Peace Corps Master's International Program.

This academic foundation was followed by two years of service as a community development specialist in Jamaica, where she honed her skills in grassroots development before returning to Alaska to serve as a project manager for the Fairbanks Economic Development Corporation.

In that capacity, she led diverse initiatives

involving agricultural outreach, cold weather testing, and tech-led development.

Emsley, who grew up in northwest Indiana.

We located to Verroco with her family in 2016 to return to her Midwestern roots.

Since moving to the area, she's become an integral part of the local professional landscape, serving for five years as the Southwest Program Manager for the Wisconsin Women's Business Initiative Corporation.

Most recently, she served as the Economic Development Administrator for the city of La Crosse.

During her five-year tenure there, she was instrumental in launching impactful projects, including the development

of hundreds of new housing units, significant reductions in childcare weightless through increased facility capacity, the revitalization of blighted properties, and the support of dozens of small businesses through innovative local partnerships.

Beyond her professional accolades, Emsley is deeply connected to the Verroqua community.

She and her husband Matt have three children currently enrolled in the Verroqua Area School District.

Her commitment to the city is reflected in her extensive local involvement, having served as chair of the Verroqua Erie Montessori School Governance Council, a commissioner with the Verroqua Business Park, a member of the Vernon Women's Alliance, and a board member of the Vernon Economic Development Association.

She also continues to contribute her time as a volunteer with the Vernon County Teen Court Program.

The Kickapoo School District is excited to announce that online registration for the upcoming school year is officially open.

They're looking forward to a great year ahead and want to ensure every family is ready for the first day of school.

To get started, please log in to Family Access through Skyward to complete the registration process for each of your children.

It is important to note that online registration must be completed through a web browser on a computer or laptop, as the Skyward mobile app does not support the registration forms.

If you've forgotten your login credentials or password, the office staff is ready to assist you.

For elementary school students, please contact Melissa in the elementary office.

For middle and high school students, reach out to Sophie in the middle school, high school office.

Kickapoo schools understand that some families may need extra assistance or access to a computer.

They invite you to stop by during the open house on Wednesday, August 26 from 3 p.m.

to 6 p.m.

The high school computer lab located directly across from the middle school high school office will be open for you to use their equipment and receive hands-on help with the registration process.

Please ensure all registrations are submitted no later than the deadline on September 14th.

Greater Richland Area Cancer Elimination.

Grace will be holding walk with Grace tonight at Crossco Park and Richland Center.

Cancer survivor registration will begin at four o'clock and those in attendance can start getting bidder numbers for the silent auction and bucket raffle.

Silent auction bidding and bucket raffle ticket sales will get underway as well.

At six o'clock, the opening ceremony will be held.

During the ceremony, this year's Ambassadors, Gary Schwartz, Mike Bradford, and Lila Babe Kraska and Nancy Geer will be recognized.

The opening lap featuring survivors and caretakers will also be held.

At nine o'clock, the luminary ceremony will start.

Names on each luminary will be read at that time.

Following the ceremony, the final lap will be held.

All are welcome to attend the 23rd annual Walk With Grace tonight, starting at four o'clock at Crossco Park in Richland Center.

And yes, the event will be at Crossco Park outside today, starting at four o'clock.

A lot has been said about the proposed BECI 765 kilovolt power lines project.

And still many landowners feel as though they have very little information.

Mid-continent grid solutions will be hosting open houses throughout the area.

to share information and hear from the public.

The first of these will be in Richland Center, Monday, August 24th, from 10 a.m.

until 1 p.m.

at the Richland Center High School.

That same day, Monday, August 24th, there will be an open house in Gays Mills at the Gays Mills Community Center from 4 p.m.

until 7 p.m.

In Salk County, there will be an open house in Baraboo, Tuesday, August 25th, from 10 a.m.

until 1 p.m.

A woman is currently in stable condition following a stabbing incident in Vernon County that occurred Wednesday morning.

Authorities received a report around 9 a.m.

regarding a female patient who had been admitted to the emergency room at Amplify Health in La Crosse suffering from multiple stab wounds.

Law enforcement officials have confirmed that a suspect is in custody and is awaiting formal charges.

The Vernon County Sheriff's Department is actively assisting with the ongoing investigation.

Officials have stated that this was an isolated incident and there is no ongoing danger to the public.

Out of respect for the investigation, names and additional specific details are currently being withheld, according to Westby Police Chief Scott Stuber.

After confirming two cases of measles in the state on Wednesday, the Wisconsin Department of Health Sciences has now confirmed the number of confirmed cases has grown to 15.

The two initial cases were in Iowa and Lafayette counties.

All 13 of the new cases are in Iowa County.

Citizens are urged to check their immunization records and to stay home if they're experiencing symptoms.

Health officials state the measles vaccine is 97% effective against the disease.

The source of the spread has not yet been identified, but the new cases have come in people who had not traveled outside the state, which means the virus has been transmitting locally.

Following a federal executive order issued August 10th regarding routine childhood vaccination schedules, Wisconsin Department of Health Services Secretary Kirsten Johnson has affirmed that the state will maintain its established approach to immunization guidance.

Secretary Johnson emphasized that the DHS continues to rely on systematic and transparent reviews of scientific evidence to inform updates for parents, health care providers, and public health agencies.

Despite the recent federal action, the department's position remains unchanged, and they continue to support the childhood and adolescent immunization schedules published by the American Academy of Pediatrics

and the American Academy of Family Physicians.

The DHS expressed deep concern regarding the lack of scientific evidence in recent statements from top federal officials.

Secretary Johnson noted that health professionals and parents deserve accurate, incredible information, asserting that no new scientific evidence exists to justify changing recommendations that have long protected children across the United States.

Wisconsin health officials remain committed to providing guidance that reflects a careful evaluation of benefits and risks, ensuring families can access preventative care while maintaining the trust of the public.

On the afternoon of August 9th, the routine drive through the village of Dickeyville took a dangerous turn when a Cuba city man veered off course, resulting in a collision that downed a power pole.

The Grant County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of a single vehicle accident on South Main Street near the vicinity of Sunset Lanes where investigators began piecing together the sequence of events.

Deputies at the scene determined that 62-year-old Michael McDermott was traveling southbound on South Main Street when his vehicle unexpectedly crossed the center line.

After drifting into the lane of oncoming traffic, the truck left the pavement entirely on the left side of the road.

The vehicle's momentum carried it into a power pole with enough force to snap the wooden structure in half.

In a precarious turn of events, the severed top of the pole landed directly onto McDermott's truck,

before the vehicle finally came to arrest back on the roadway.

Despite the significant impact in the live hazard of the downed pool, authorities confirmed that McDermott emerged from the wreckage without injury.

However, the subsequent investigation led to his immediate arrest.

McDermott now faces charges for operating while under the influence first defense and was further cited for possessing open intoxicants within a motor vehicle.

according to officials from the Grant County Sheriff's Office.

The Richland School District Board of Education met on Wednesday to discuss and finalize various administrative matters for the upcoming academic period.

During this meeting, the board officially approved the hiring of Jordan Galleon, who will join the district as a special education teacher for the 2026-27 school year.

The Ritzland Charter Schools Governance Board will convene for a meeting Tuesday, August 18 at 3.45 p.m.

The session is set to take place at the Partners School, located at 1000 U.S.

Highway 14 West in Ritzland Center.

This gathering provides an important opportunity for board members and the public to engage with the ongoing operations and strategic direction of the district's charter programs.

The agenda for the afternoon includes several key items starting with a registration period for public comments.

Following the opening formalities and approval of the minutes from the previous meeting held May 28, the Board will review the latest financial reports.

A significant portion of the meeting will be dedicated to information and discussion featuring specialized governance board training led by Dan Lathrop.

Additionally, attendees will receive progress updates regarding both the Hive and Partner Schools before the meeting concludes.

The City of Verrocco is proud to announce the appointment of Julie Emsley as the community's new city administrator.

Bringing more than 16 years of dedicated experience in economic and community development, Emsley is set to begin her official duties on September 15.

Her professional journey began with a master's degree in rural development from the University of Alaska Fairbanks earned through the Peace Corps Master's International Program.

This academic foundation was followed by two years of service as a community development specialist in Jamaica, where she honed her skills in grassroots development before returning to Alaska to serve as a project manager for the Fairbanks Economic Development Corporation.

In that capacity, she led diverse initiatives involving agricultural outreach, cold weather testing, and tech-led development.

Emsley, who grew up in northwest Indiana, relocated to Verrocco with her family in 2016 to return to her Midwestern roots.

Since moving to the area, she's become an integral part of the local professional landscape, serving for five years as the Southwest Program Manager for the Wisconsin Women's Business Initiative Corporation.

Most recently, she served as the Economic Development Administrator

for the city of La Crosse.

During her five-year tenure there, she was instrumental in launching impactful projects, including the development of hundreds of new housing units, significant reductions in childcare wait lists through increased facility capacity, the revitalization of blighted properties, and the support of dozens of small businesses through innovative local partnerships.

Beyond her professional accolades, Emsley is deeply connected to the Verroqua community.

She and her husband, Matt, have three children currently enrolled in the Verroqua Area School District.

Her commitment to the city is reflected in her extensive local involvement, having served as chair of the Verroqua Area Montessori School Governance Council.

A commissioner with the Verroqua Business Park, a member of the Vernon Women's Alliance, and a board member of the Vernon Economic Development Association.

She also continues to contribute her time as a volunteer

with the Vernon County Teen Court Program.

The Waniwok Lions Club invites the public to be part of Waniwok history when moving of the historic Hoover Hobo Hotel takes place tomorrow in Waniwok.

Julie Ott is with the Waniwok Lions Club.

The event starts at 9 o'clock in the morning, goes to about 2.

The actual raising of the Hobo Hotel will start around 10 o'clock.

I'm not sure how long that'll take, but a group of men from men and women, maybe, from the heritage community.

We've hired them to do the work on it, the restoration pieces, and they came to us and said, how about if we actually do the old-fashioned lifting of the building, the structure, and move it down the street?

I'm like, wow, that'd be pretty cool.

So there's going to be about 50 to 60 persons that physically lift it.

They'll be all braced up and walk it about

Oh, 150 yards, maybe, down the same street and place it on foundation that they've already started with there along Washington Street, which is County Double F, and the 400 bike trail.

So it can be seen right from Highway 33 and the bike trail and hopefully bring people into the village.

The history of the Hobo Hotel dates back to the 1800s.

Lions Club member Richard Kilmer talks about that history.

Waniwok was on the 400 line from Chicago to Minneapolis where the midpoint 200 miles from Chicago 200 miles from Minneapolis and as Chicago Northwestern trains went through there but during the pression 25% of the population was without work I mean there were hobos before but there were all these homeless people traveling the rails and Waniwok decided oh we need to do something for these people because every family was affected so they turned this shed into it used to be the town jail

into a place for them to stay, put in bunk beds, a stove, and provided food for them.

The homeless could get off, they could wash their clothes, they could have a good meal, and it was really a very popular place for these people to stop.

But then after the depression was over,

People didn't want a memory of this, so most of these places were torn down.

I think there's one other one that we know of in Michigan that still stands.

There's carvings in there from the hobos, and so it's kind of an important part of history.

During the event, there will also be a hobo zone featuring kids' activities and games, a variety of vendors, music, and food stands.

All are welcome to watch the moving of the historic Hoover Hobo Hotel.

Part of the historical hotel's restoration tomorrow from 9 a.m.

until 2 p.m.

in Waniwak.

You can hear more about the event and the Hobo Hotel history online at wrco.com during this past Wednesday's Morning Show interview.

The Richland Center High School Theater Department will be holding a trivia night tomorrow night at the Phoenix Center and Richland Center.

The event is a fundraiser for the upcoming production of Mamma Mia.

AJ Clone is a member of the theater department.

I think it'll be a great success for the theater.

We need all the help we can get and we would just love everyone to show up this Saturday at 6 p.m.

It would just be great to see everyone's beautiful faces and it should be a fun night.

Everyone is encouraged to organize a team and take part in trivia.

We would love for you to bring your whole family if you want or if you have about four friends that you think are smarter, just want to have fun and throw some answers out there, see if you're right or wrong.

Just show up with a group of people that you trust to make some smart decisions.

You can have a team of up to eight people and cost is $10 per person.

No pre-registration is required.

Registration will take place from 6 until 6.30.

and Trivia will get underway at seven o'clock.

There will also be another opportunity at Trivia Night to help the theater department raise money.

We do have a silent auction going on that night, so I don't know all of what's in there, but we will have other things, so we'll have that Trivia, so you get $10 again to the door, we'll do the Trivia Night, and then there'll be a silent auction either following or before.

Get your thinking caps on and have fun.

At the Richland Center High School Theater Department's Trivia Night and Silent Auction,

Tomorrow night at the Phoenix Center in Richland Center starting at 6 p.m.

All proceeds go to support the RCHS Theater Department.

Governor Tony Evers and Travel Wisconsin have officially designated the Wisconsin State Capitol and its surrounding square

as the 12th Wonder of Wisconsin.

This prestigious list recognizes unforgettable destinations shaped by natural forces and human hands that serve as essential experiences for residents and visitors alike.

By joining this iconic group, the Capital Square now stands alongside other sites of natural and cultural significance, such as the Apostle Islands, National Lakeshore, and Lambeau Field.

The significance of this designation lies in the capitol's role as more than just an architectural marvel.

Governor Evers described the square as the people's house, emphasizing its importance as a vital gathering space that represents shared Wisconsin values, from hosting landmark legislation to community staples like the Dane County Farmers Market and Art Fair on the Square.

The capitol serves as a living backdrop for the state's history and culture.

The Tourism Secretary and Sayers echoed this sentiment, noting that the rising dome acts as a centerpiece for life in Madison, creating lifelong memories for all who visit.

This announcement comes at a time of unprecedented success for the state's tourism industry.

In 2025, Wisconsin celebrated its fourth consecutive record-breaking year, generating a staggering $27 billion in total economic impact.

This performance, which averages approximately $74 million in economic activity per day, surpassed the previous record set in 2024.

Furthermore, the state saw a record 117.9 million visits in 2025, a significant increase that highlights the growing appeal of Wisconsin's diverse destinations.

The inclusion of the state capital as a wonder of Wisconsin is expected to further drive visitation

and sustain this historic economic momentum.

The Kickapoo School District is excited to announce that online registration for the upcoming school year is officially open.

They're looking forward to a great year and want to ensure every family is ready for the first day of school.

To get started, please log into Family Access through Skyward.

to complete the registration process for each of your children.

It is important to note that online registration must be completed through a web browser on a computer or laptop as the Skyward mobile app does not support the registration forms.

If you've forgotten your login credentials or password, office staff is ready to assist.

For elementary school students, please contact Melissa in the elementary office

For middle and high school students, reach out to Sophie in the middle school high school office.

Kick-a-pool schools understand that some families may need extra assistance or access to a computer.

They invite you to stop by during the open house Wednesday, August 26 from 3 p.m.

to 6 p.m.

The high school computer lab located directly across from the middle school high school office will be open for you to use their equipment and receive hands-on help with the registration process.

Please ensure all registrations are submitted no later than the deadline, September 14th.

And Ithaca online registration is now open within Skyward.

Head to the Ithaca Skyward Family Access Portal link and log in with your parent or guardian username and password.

Once signed in, look for the online registration or new student online enrollment tab on the left side of the screen to complete the required forms.

It is important to note that online registration must be completed through a web browser on a computer or laptop, as the Skyward mobile app does not support the registration forms.

If you've forgotten your login credentials or password, Ithaca office staff is ready to assist at 608-585.

2311.

New this year, Ithaca also has backpacks available for students thanks to the generosity of the folks at Land of Lakes.

Stop by now to pick one up for your students or call 608-585-2311 for more information.

New plans to replace a pair of iconic downtown medicine spots with housing.

Salt Lake City based Lotus Company

will be the fifth developer since 2000 to propose tearing down the Esen House and come back in.

The latest plans would replace the buildings with the hotel, retail space, and around 200 low-income apartments.

Previous plans to replace the aging properties failed in 2024, 2019, and earlier.

Lotus Company will have to complete the full planning process with Madison officials, but are hoping to have the new buildings open

by summer of 2029.

The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has issued a warning.

A statistics reveal 29 fatal ATV-UTV incidents have occurred in the state so far this year.

According to DNR data, the primary contributing factors in these fatalities are the failure to wear helmets and the non-use of seat belts.

A third major factor identified by officials is the lack of completion of a safety education course, a trend that DNR off-highway vehicle administrator Lieutenant Jacob Holtsclaw describes as troubling.

While not all crashes are entirely preventable, officials emphasize that the probability of survival increases significantly when proper safety equipment is utilized.

Among the 29 fatal incidents recorded this year,

13 involved ATVs and 16 involved UTVs with rollovers, collisions with motor vehicles and ejections, serving as the leading crash types.

Local communities across Wisconsin have seen the impact of these trends firsthand through numerous reported incidents ranging from UTV rollovers in the town of Wheatland and the town of Exeter to accidents near Livingston and in the village of Barnerville.

To combat this trend, the DNR urges all riders to adopt a strict safety code of conduct.

This includes operating vehicles while sober, using helmets, seat belts, and eye protection at all times, and adhering to all regulatory signs and speed limits.

Furthermore, riders are encouraged to enroll in DNR-approved safety courses regardless of age, as these classes provide critical skills for accident prevention.

Wisconsin law mandates that all operators involved in crash incidents report them to law enforcement without delay and submit a written report to the DNR within 10 days.

Further information regarding writing regulations, safety classes, and reports can be found on the Wisconsin DNR website.

Five years into its ambitious construction journey, the future USS Wisconsin is steadily taking shape

as a cornerstone of the Navy's next generation fleet.

To celebrate this milestone and the vessel's connection to the state, the Wisconsin Veterans Museum will host a public event August 27th.

The morning begins at 9.15 a.m.

with a formal reading of a proclamation from Governor Evers.

which officially designates the date as USS Wisconsin Day in recognition of the submarine's hull number 827.

Attendees will have the unique opportunity to engage with officials from the USS Wisconsin Association to learn more about the boat's development.

The museum gallery will feature significant artifacts from the build, including a casting from one of the submarine's torpedo tubes and a collection of images documenting its construction.

As the third U.S.

Navy vessel to bear the name of the state, the Wisconsin represents a deep-seated tradition of naval service.

Museum Director Kolikowski noted that the institution is proud to serve as the keeper of memories.

For the veterans who served on previous ships of this name,

while beginning to tell the story of this newest nuclear-powered ballistic missile submarine through these physical pieces of its history.

Technically known as the Columbia-class ballistic missile submarine, the SSBN-827 is currently being built through a partnership between General Dynamics Electric Boat and Huntington Ingalls Industries.

The project is a massive undertaking with significant local impact.

as more than 300 defense contractors and suppliers from across the state of Wisconsin are actively contributing to the design and development of this critical class of submarines.

The Wisconsin Housing and Economic Development Authority, WEDA, has officially opened registration for its highly anticipated 2026 conference titled, How Housing Happens.

scheduled for November 18th and 19th at the Manona Terrace Community and Convention Center in Madison.

The event serves as a critical nexus for affordable housing leaders.

By bringing together a diverse group of developers, property managers, financial specialists, lenders, advocates, and government officials, the conference fosters a unique environment

for collaboration and innovation in addressing the state's housing needs.

The programming for the event is designed to move from foundational learning

to strategic execution over the course of a day and a half.

Day one kicks off at noon, focusing on hands-on training, workshops, and skill development centered on WEDA's various programs and industry-wide challenges.

This initial day concludes with a keynote address and a networking reception.

The second day expands into a full schedule featuring breakout sessions across four specialized tracks, multifamily development and finance, community engagement, property management,

and compliance and affordable housing vision and strategy.

Attendees will also have access to the vendor marketplace where businesses can showcase their work and network with industry peers.

Friday's roundup.

Brought to you by Richland Hospital, Badgerland, Florine, Cardinal Glass CG, Crystal Clean Storage, and Reedsburg Farmers Cooperative.

Join Hank and Phil for Friday laughter bigger than a raccoon in a snack aisle.

And twice as unpredictable.

We've got cooking with Hank, where recipes are more of a suggestion and the smoke alarm is basically a sous chef.

And medium heat.

That's just a bad choice.

And don't miss the word of the day.

Freshly invented on the spot by Hank with zero approval process.

Wrap up your week with chaos and just enough nonsense to make Monday nervous.

Hey Bray.

How you doing buddy?

Happy Friday.

Yes, it is.

You're not wearing red.

Uh, no, I, I'm, you don't even wear your gray shirt.

I know you have it somewhere, but you know what?

I'm

very disappointed.

Here's the deal.

Okay.

By the end of the night, I'll probably have had three shirts.

Probably would.

Because it may be some new pants.

Maybe you never know.

You never know.

You never know.

It's always fun when you're planning an outdoor event and the weather is a little iffy.

Yes.

Seems like, but here's the thing Phil, you and I both know.

late August Friday nights, you know, it's going to rain

or lightning or something.

You know what's going to happen.

Right.

So I've been outside this year, this summer with, uh, play music twice before it rained both times.

And so tonight could

be

rain, could be the trifecta.

It ain't going to

rain.

You know, I just have faith.

And if it does, it does.

We're, we're the type of people around this area that just adapt and overcome.

You just move on.

Yeah.

Well, it's easy to say if you're not, uh,

If you don't have a bunch of electronic equipment,

I understand

that.

I totally understand that, but we will adapt and we'll move and we'll make it up.

Yeah.

We just do it.

That's just what we do.

I just want to get a shock.

So, you know, my, I was electrician.

Really?

Yeah.

Neighbors found it shocking.

I bet they did.

Yeah.

Boom.

Put the penny in the fuse box instead

of using a fuse.

Yes.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Why not put it in the socket?

You bet.

Yes.

That thing out there.

Yeah.

So your question of the day, if you could eliminate one vegetable forever, ooh, which one would it be?

Oh boy.

I know.

I know.

You're, you're going to offend somebody out there.

I'm just going to start maybe beats.

Yeah.

Yeah.

I like beats, but to a.

Man, I'm, you know what I mean?

I'm not going to sit there and eat them like a tomato out of the garden.

Right.

To me, it's beets or asparagus or

turnips.

Okay.

Yeah.

Turnips.

Asparagus.

I actually like real

well.

You do.

Okay.

Okay.

And I just haven't, but I just, no, but if I had to eliminate one vegetable, you know what?

Ice cream.

Ice cream.

Yeah.

This one was shocking too.

I, I like pickles like, like dill pickles.

I'm not a cucumber fan.

Really?

No.

No, I don't know what it is.

I mean, I'll eat it, but it's not my favorite.

I would pick something else over that.

Oh,

I

love pickles.

Yeah.

Well, I like cucumbers or pickles,

but

I, I just, I'd rather

have a dill and sometimes people make them, they'll chop those cucumbers up and put them in vinegar.

Yes.

Oh, is it vinegar and water or something like that?

But it's so good.

Oh.

A little bit of pepper and onion

or a little creamy sauce on them.

No.

Yeah.

No, no, no.

Yeah.

But, you know, yeah.

So, but you also might be from Peeridge, Phil, if your lawnmower has car lights on it because you've needed them before.

Yeah, probably.

I was looking at car lights the other day just for my lawnmower, Phillip, if

you could believe that.

I don't think George Jones is from Peeridge, but I think he drove his mower at night

on

the highway.

What was the old boy that drove it across country?

Wasn't he from Iowa?

Yeah, that was the, it's,

You're going to put me on the spot here.

Is it Stanton Stratton?

Stratton story.

And it actually took place.

He drove it, uh, you know, into Iowa County

from

Iowa.

Didn't he get stopped a couple of times?

There's a wonderful movie about that.

They made a movie, but, but didn't some law enforcement officers in Iowa?

give him a bad time or something.

I don't know about that.

Maybe that's something else.

After they learned the story, I think it was me driving down the street.

Let him go.

Yeah.

You know, Interstate 80.

Right.

Shouldn't be doing that.

But if that's all you've got, that's all you've got.

Right.

Right.

So can you get arrested or pulled over if you're driving drunk on a lawnmower?

Well, probably.

I'm asking.

I don't know.

I think that's why George, well, the only reason George Jones said it is cause that was the only key he could find.

Cause Tammy, we had hit all the keys to the other vehicles, but forgot the lawnmower.

Did I tell you last night I was out in the yard and I was working on the trailer and this, you hear this hum, boom, go by and I was going, what is that?

Then all of a sudden, boom, this is, it's this kid on this scooter, electric scooter, right?

I guarantee you they're going 35 mile an hour.

So she stopped kind of in front and I said, how fast does that thing go?

She goes, I've had it up to 33.

Wow.

An electric scooter.

That would scare me.

goodness, what are they putting in these batteries?

Where's my phone had that kind of battery?

Yeah, no kidding.

Yeah.

You and I are always looking for a charger.

Boy, and the older your phone gets, the worse it is

meeting,

meeting charge.

So I was in the daycare last night.

Oh, one of my trouble.

No, one of my daycare friends, um, young lady and, uh, toward the end of the day.

And

Her mom showed up to pick her up and she grabbed my hand and like walked me over and she goes, mom, can we bring him home?

Oh my goodness.

That's.

June's going.

Yes.

Yeah.

Yeah.

June

did

say

that.

I'll pick him

up

in the morning.

Be my guest,

but I'll pick him up in the morning.

Can we bring him home?

I've already got his bag packed.

Hey, wait a minute.

Wait a minute.

Yeah.

Yeah.

Anyway, uh, he'll Billy cooking today, buddy.

Uh-oh.

Cookin' with Hank.

You got a two-page recipe, so you better get started.

I had to mic him big.

Oh.

All right, here we go.

Hillbilly is 2.42 in the morning.

I did some prep time.

It's a little later.

Yeah.

Pizza, fry skewers, skewers, skew.

Sewers?

No, skewers.

Go ahead.

It's a sewer skewer skewer skewer skewers skewers.

Yeah, we're going to have a problem.

All right.

All right.

Serves two reasonable adults or one, uh, single hillbilly arguing with the TV during a 1998 WWE walk, raw rerun.

Oh, you're watching that man.

Prep time is 10 minutes.

Assuming that six of those aren't spent groggily interacting with the junk door and for, for a doom of skewers skewers skewers skewers.

Cook times about 25 minutes, Phil.

Go ahead and just laugh it up.

Nutrition.

Look away.

If you're checking calories at 3.42 in the morning, you've missed the spirit of this entire operation.

Here's your ingredients.

One bag of french fries.

Some people use waffle.

I like the long crinkle french fries.

Ooh, okay.

Good.

What about hash browns?

Let me listen to this.

Hash browns will work too.

Okay, okay.

I always cook my fries the night before, before doing this.

And then all you got to do is heat them up.

What about tots?

Tots would be perfect.

Tots would be good too.

But it'd be very small when I'm done with them.

All right.

The structural foundation of this questionable decision, 20 to 25 pieces of pepperoni slices, one and a half cups of shredded mozzarella cheese or whatever cheese you have, a quarter cup of grated Parmesan cheese, the kind in the green shaker that's older than your dog.

Yeah, yeah.

a teaspoon of Italian seasoning, I usually substitute that with for pepper, a cup of pizza sauce, skewers, wooden art metal, chopsticks work.

I mean, preferably not plastic, clean sticks from the yard if you're desperate.

Here's your optional thing, bacon, sausage, jalapenos are literally your own rogue, deli meat currently crying for help in the crisper drawer.

Just scrape the mold off.

Here's your instructions and these are really good.

Pre, your oven to 425 degrees.

If you, if using wooden skewers, soak them in water first.

We're aiming for late night, delicately not fire department called to a trailer at dawn.

Okay.

Bake the wall, bake the fries until they are aggressively, aggressively, crispy.

Take a, take, take a fry and bend it in, bend it in.

And if it sags, it goes back in.

That fry lacks emotional resilience and is in it ready for what comes next.

Number three, let them cool for two minutes, grabbing a 425 degree potato, directly off the sheet, pan in a fast track to inventing a new swear words that can make a sailor blush.

That's why I always cook them the night before.

I see.

Thread the fries into the skewers, layering pepperoni in between, and a fry.

If the fry shatters, eat the evidence instantly.

It's in the culinary world.

This is called quality control.

In this house, it's covering your tracks.

Transfer the skewers into a foil-blind baking sheet unless you enjoy scraping burnt dairy off the metal at four in the morning.

Smother them in mozzarella, pepper, parmesan, and your seasoning.

Measure the cheese with your heart.

And tonight, your heart should be legally reckless.

Six, scatter your toppings.

So what you got, you got these fries on the skewer, okay?

with pepperoni in between them.

All right, then you're putting all your ingredients on top of these, the skewer, okay?

So the

fries are

your crust.

That's correct.

Ah, all right.

Yeah.

No human in history has ever stared at a pile of melted cheese and mutters.

You know what?

This is just too much bacon, you know?

So it's really good.

All right, so bake for another five to seven minutes until the cheese is bubbling and binding and binding the whole apparatus together

Tighter than duct tape on Uncle Earl's lawnmower deck.

Oh,

sure.

Never go to Uncle Earl's when he's a mullin' because you never know what's gonna get thrown away and fly.

Yes.

Warm up the pizza sauce for dipping.

Do not eat it cold directly out of the jar with a butter knife.

We may be making deep-fried philosophy decisions right now, but we're not animals, Phillip.

We have standards low, but we still have standards.

Yeah, okay.

There you have it, buddy.

Pizza fry skewers.

It's pizza fries and processed.

and processed meat fused on a stick, the official unholy galaxy of anyone who's ever stared into the binding blue abyss of the opening refrigerator at 3.42 in the morning and whispered, God gives us his toughest battles.

to his bravest soldiers.

There you go.

Wow.

That doesn't sound bad.

It's really, really good.

You'll have to make some for us.

One of

these days.

Airfire works perfect for him.

Oh

yeah.

So, but anyway, if you don't like skewers or can't find one, you can lay those, just use the French fries as a pizza base or as a

crust

and put it in.

It's really good.

It just adds another.

So

not

bad.

Not bad.

So it's pretty good.

Hillbilly pizza fry skewers.

Yeah.

yeah you actually may have to try it this weekend yeah yeah so anyway oh uh what you have something for us grandpa Phil believe

it's time for poor old grandpa Phil's attic logic sponsored by salt wheels store in downtown Casanova since 1946 yes oh boy absolutely grandpa's Phil's logic

A fool and his money are soon parted.

Careless people lose their wealth.

How true that is,

Phil.

Fool and his money are soon parted.

This fool never had any money.

Well, he did, but he spent it.

Records.

Back in the day.

I come home with dead skunk in the middle of the road and play it.

And my mom says, you're a dear old dad and I work and slave.

to get a milk check and we sacrifice to give you an allowance and you go to town and that is what you bought with our hard earned milk check.

Dead skunk in the middle of the road.

You ought to be ashamed of yourself, Mr. Oh my goodness.

And you know, for a moment, I'm oh my God, I have tears in my eyes.

It's true though, you know, dead skunk in the middle.

And the trouble is, you know, I still play it on Saturday night.

I know you do.

So it was a good investment.

When you still play it during the week.

Once in a while.

Yeah, absolutely.

Dead skunk in the middle of the road.

It was our

prom theme.

It was.

Well, you and I would have something.

Deliverance in my prom dream and the dead skunk in the middle of the road.

There you go.

Right.

We were probably right next door to each other.

Didn't even know it.

Here's the word of the day.

The word of the week sponsored by Oakwood Fruit Farm.

Here we go.

Are you ready?

Yep.

Show for, show for, show for, show for, show for, waste, waste of money.

All right.

I spent 150 bucks on that limousine fill and didn't even come with the driver.

All that money and nothing to show for for it.

No, nothing to show for it.

No, nothing to show for it.

Show for it.

All right.

Boy, oh boy.

Learning a lot here, Phil.

Not really.

Have a great day.

Everybody have a great weekend.

Happy weekend.

Yup.

And see you tonight at Graceville.

You bet.

Today is August 14th.

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 20th 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 J. Roberts, 54 of Soldiers Grove.

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

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

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

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

until the time of service at 11.

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

Irma M. Hansen Miller, 91 of Blue River.

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

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

Tuesday, August 18 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 18 at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 4 p.m.

until the time of service at 6 p.m.

Memorials in Ray's name can be directed to the Viola Fire Department, Kickapoo Rescue Squad, or Viola American Legion Post 447.

The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting the family with the 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 20 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 noon until 2 p.m.

with burial at 2.30 p.m.

in the St.

Killian Cemetery.

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

to 7 p.m.

at St.

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

until the time of the Mass.

Eileen Catherine Hegg Eberle, 95 of Lone Rock.

Today's vital statistics are sponsored by Krause Monument.

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

Today is August 14th.

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 and tribute to Jim.

Burial will be in St.

Patrick's Cemetery in Melantha Creek.

Memorials may be directed to Mick Memorial Park.

Jim is survived by his wife Emily, children Daniel and Lynn Hansel, Louise and Larry Martin, Mary and Dan Ryan and David and Deb Hansel.

sister, Marge Gleason, brother-in-law, Joseph McEvac, seven grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, many other relatives and friends, James R. 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 15th 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 Kay and Corey Jones.

His father's Bruce Cornwell and Randy Roberts.

His children Hunter and Rebecca Roberts, Cassidy and Zachary Reddy, Hogan Roberts,

and Brooklyn Roberts.

Brother Jerry Roberts, half-siblings Isis and Gary Wynos, Oscar Cornwell, Bruce and Amy Cornwell, Connie and Jesse Higgins, Rhonda and Travis Washburn, and Rachel Roberts.

Grandparents Paul and Pat Wallen, many other relatives and friends.

Paul J. Roberts, 54 of Soldiers Grove.

Irma M. Hansen Miller, 91 of Blue River, died on Thursday, August 6 at Schmitt-Woodland 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 a.m.

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

Irma is survived by her husband Donald, children Timothy, Mark and Valerie, Daniel and Brian and Doug, three grandchildren, three great-grandchildren.

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.

Memorial's in raise name can be directed to the Viola Fire Department, Kikapu Rescue Squad or Viola American Legion post 447.

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

Ray is survived by his wife Susan, daughter Tina Ray Bass Moore, sons Ricky Bass, Steven and Kelly Bass, many other relatives and friends.

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 noon 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.

until 7 p.m.

at St.

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

until the time of Mass.

Eileen is survived by five children, Luanne and Steve Greenhack, Randall and Darla Christian Eberle, Joellen Frawley and partner Jim, Diane Lombardo and Angela and Joe Droll.

Brothers Clarence and Erlinda Hegg.

I'm sorry, Clarence, Anne, Erlinda, Hague, and Dick, and Pam Hague, sisters Harriet, Torgerson, and Joe Gruber, 15 grandchildren, 15 great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends, Eileen, Catherine, Hague, Eberle, 95 of Lone Rock.

Amber Brown, 51, formerly of Reedsburg, died Thursday, August 13th.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the American Cancer Society, in Amber's memory.

Farmer Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Amber is survived by her former husband, Todd Brown, brother Drago and Rita Stittleberg, children Alex and Mandy Brown, Connor Brown and Brad Saunders, Macy Brown and Erin Custopoulos, Mia Brown and Mason Messberg, Shelby Brown and James Brown.

Three grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, and friends.

Amber Brown, 51, formerly of Reedsburg.

Greater Richland Area Cancer Elimination.

Grace will be holding walk with Grace tonight at Crossco Park and Richland Center.

Cancer survivor registration will begin at four o'clock and those in attendance can start getting bidder numbers for the silent auction and bucket raffle.

Silent auction bidding and bucket raffle ticket sales will get underway as well.

At six o'clock, the opening ceremony will be held.

During the ceremony, this year's Ambassadors, Gary Schwartz, Mike Bradford, and Lila Babe Kraska and Nancy Geer will be recognized.

The opening lap featuring survivors and caretakers will also be held.

At nine o'clock, the luminary ceremony will start.

Names on each luminary will be read at that time.

Following the ceremony, the final lap will be held.

All are welcome to attend the 23rd annual Walk With Grace tonight, starting at four o'clock at Crossco Park in Richland Center.

And yes, the event will be at Crossco Park outside today, starting at four o'clock.

A lot has been said about the proposed BECI 765 kilovolt power lines project.

And still many landowners feel as though they have very little information.

Mid-continent grid solutions will be hosting open houses throughout the area.

to share information and hear from the public.

The first of these will be in Richland Center, Monday, August 24th, from 10 a.m.

until 1 p.m.

at the Richland Center High School.

That same day, Monday, August 24th, there will be an open house in Gays Mills at the Gays Mills Community Center from 4 p.m.

until 7 p.m.

In Salk County, there will be an open house in Baraboo, Tuesday, August 25th, from 10 a.m.

until 1 p.m.

A woman is currently in stable condition following a stabbing incident in Vernon County that occurred Wednesday morning.

Authorities received a report around 9 a.m.

regarding a female patient who had been admitted to the emergency room at Amplify Health in La Crosse suffering from multiple stab wounds.

Law enforcement officials have confirmed that a suspect is in custody and is awaiting formal charges.

The Vernon County Sheriff's Department is actively assisting with the ongoing investigation.

Officials have stated that this was an isolated incident and there is no ongoing danger to the public.

Out of respect for the investigation, names and additional specific details are currently being withheld, according to Westby Police Chief Scott Stuber.

After confirming two cases of measles in the state on Wednesday, the Wisconsin Department of Health Sciences has now confirmed the number of confirmed cases has grown to 15.

The two initial cases were in Iowa and Lafayette counties.

All 13 of the new cases are in Iowa County.

Citizens are urged to check their immunization records and to stay home if they're experiencing symptoms.

Health officials state the measles vaccine is 97% effective against the disease.

The source of the spread has not yet been identified, but the new cases have come in people who had not traveled outside the state, which means the virus has been transmitting locally.

Following a federal executive order issued August 10th regarding routine childhood vaccination schedules, Wisconsin Department of Health Services Secretary Kirsten Johnson has affirmed that the state will maintain its established approach to immunization guidance.

Secretary Johnson emphasized that the DHS continues to rely on systematic and transparent reviews of scientific evidence to inform updates for parents, health care providers, and public health agencies.

Despite the recent federal action, the department's position remains unchanged, and they continue to support the childhood and adolescent immunization schedules published by the American Academy of Pediatrics

and the American Academy of Family Physicians.

The DHS expressed deep concern regarding the lack of scientific evidence in recent statements from top federal officials.

Secretary Johnson noted that health professionals and parents deserve accurate, incredible information, asserting that no new scientific evidence exists to justify changing recommendations that have long protected children across the United States.

Wisconsin health officials remain committed to providing guidance that reflects a careful evaluation of benefits and risks, ensuring families can access preventative care while maintaining the trust of the public.

On the afternoon of August 9th, the routine drive through the village of Dickeyville took a dangerous turn when a Cuba city man veered off course, resulting in a collision that downed a power pole.

The Grant County Sheriff's Office responded to reports of a single vehicle accident on South Main Street near the vicinity of Sunset Lanes where investigators began piecing together the sequence of events.

Deputies at the scene determined that 62-year-old Michael McDermott was traveling southbound on South Main Street when his vehicle unexpectedly crossed the center line.

After drifting into the lane of oncoming traffic, the truck left the pavement entirely on the left side of the road.

The vehicle's momentum carried it into a power pole with enough force to snap the wooden structure in half.

In a precarious turn of events, the severed top of the pole landed directly onto McDermott's truck,

before the vehicle finally came to arrest back on the roadway.

Despite the significant impact in the live hazard of the downed pool, authorities confirmed that McDermott emerged from the wreckage without injury.

However, the subsequent investigation led to his immediate arrest.

McDermott now faces charges for operating while under the influence first defense and was further cited for possessing open intoxicants within a motor vehicle.

according to officials from the Grant County Sheriff's Office.

The Richland School District Board of Education met on Wednesday to discuss and finalize various administrative matters for the upcoming academic period.

During this meeting, the board officially approved the hiring of Jordan Galleon, who will join the district as a special education teacher for the 2026-27 school year.

The Ritzland Charter Schools Governance Board will convene for a meeting Tuesday, August 18 at 3.45 p.m.

The session is set to take place at the Partners School, located at 1000 U.S.

Highway 14 West in Ritzland Center.

This gathering provides an important opportunity for board members and the public to engage with the ongoing operations and strategic direction of the district's charter programs.