Six people, including two young children, were hospitalized after three vehicle crashed Saturday in the town of Freedom.
Out of Gamy County Sheriff's deputies say a pickup truck ran a stop sign and slammed into an SUV carrying a one-year-old and three-year-old along with two adults in their thirties.
Authorities say the impact sent the pickup flying through a yard and into a nearby home.
The crash pushed the SUV into a third vehicle in the oncoming lane.
That driver was treated and released at the scene.
The crash remains under investigation.
With nearly three-quarters of a million people expected to travel Wisconsin roadways over the Labor Day holiday weekend, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation sent out some reminders to help everyone get back home safely.
Civic media's Melissa Kay has the story.
The Wisconsin DOT is encouraging drivers to be extra cautious in construction zones this Labor Day weekend.
Peak travel times are anticipated between noon and 8 p.m.
on Friday and 2 to 5 p.m.
on Monday.
Knowing before you go can help you avoid those busier times.
The DOT also asks that drivers slow down, buckle up, put the phone away, and drive sober.
WisDOT Secretary Christina Boardman says, quote, every safe choice helps ensure everyone gets home safely, end quote.
Many road projects will pause over the holiday weekend to open as many lanes as possible.
However, several significant construction projects may impact Labor Day weekend travel.
You can find the full list on the free 511 Wisconsin app or by visiting 511wi.gov.
I'm Melissa Kaye,
Wisconsin drivers also faced record high prices at the pump for Labor Day weekend this year.
Gas prices today are averaging about 382 across the state.
A 70-year-old Wisconsin man died after getting trapped under an ATV Friday morning.
Trumplow County Sheriff's deputies say a preliminary investigation shows the man was carrying a ladder on the ATV in the town of Arcadia when it rolled, trapping him underneath.
Rescue workers could not revive the man.
He was pronounced dead at the scene.
Wisconsin leads the nation in ATV fatalities.
As Civic Media's Melissa K tells us, that's why the Department of Natural Resources is teaming up with conservation wardens this Labor Day to keep riders safe.
The DNR will have increased patrols on trails and routes.
The Think Smart Before You Start safety campaign will involve a joint effort from conservation wardens and county recreation deputies on a unified mission of accident prevention.
There have been 31 ATV-UTV fatalities so far this year and 66 self-reported non-fatal accidents.
Patrols will be monitoring for illegal and unsafe operation, safety equipment utilization, OWI detection, and other risky behavior enforcement such as speeding.
The DNR recommends drivers always ride sober, wear helmets, seatbelts, and eye protection, follow all regulatory signs, speed limits, and stop fully at all stop signs.
I'm Melissa
Rollovers are the number one cause for ATV fatalities in our state.
If you like swinging into quick trip for a quick roller dog on the go, they'll soon be gone themselves.
La Crosse Headquartered Quick Trip is eliminating roller grills.
The convenient store chain with locations in more than half a dozen states says the grills where people have been able to grab a quick hot dog or brought will be replaced with grab-and-go stations where individually packaged items will be available.
The switch will come to all Quick Trip stores later this month.
And that's your state news update.
I'm Connie Feldman for Civic Media News.
Hi, I'm Mike Clemens with Sports from American Family Field in Milwaukee, where it's the Brewers and the Cubs.
Yesterday, they're crew losing to the Reds.
12 to 8, a rough outing for starter Kyle Harrison, only lasted until midway through the fourth inning.
Pat Murphy.
There was some
flashes of good things, believe me, but you know, this is the first time this kid's been in these kind of uncharted waters where he was so dominant early and now he's starting to struggle and you pitch in a place like this that's so offensive, albeit
last place, they're still playing great baseball and beating some of the top teams in the game over the
Well, obviously, a tale of two halves.
I don't have a great explanation for the second half.
I get a lot of credit.
We kind of held the energy and create a lot of momentum in the first half in the second half.
We could do none.
They physically got after us in the second half.
I'm Mike Clemens.
It is going to be mostly sunny today with a high in the upper 70s to low 80s here this afternoon.
Tonight mostly cloudy with lows in the low to mid 60s.
Tomorrow mostly cloudy scattered showers and thunderstorms with mid to upper 70s for highs.
I'm meteorologist Sean Cable.
Good afternoon for WRCO News.
I'm Bo Hendricks in for Todd Copernon.
Volunteers ages 18 and over are needed to man the gates for this year's Richland County Fair.
Please contact Lyrica Marks at lyrica.marks at co.richland.wi.us if you can help, even if for only an hour.
The gates are the top priority, but volunteers are also needed for grandstand security, garbage patrol, and vendor assistance.
The town of Richland is notifying the public that Mislitch Drive will be temporarily closed at or before its intersection with County N effective immediately.
The closure is being made because the intersection presents an immediate and unacceptable safety hazard.
Trees and overgrowth vegetation obstruct the view of traffic approaching on County End, making it difficult or impossible for a driver traveling from Miss Lich Drive to see approaching vehicles before entering the intersection.
This condition creates a serious risk of a collision, particularly for school buses, emergency vehicles, residents, and other motorists.
This closure is a public safety measure.
It is not intended to interfere with emergency services or to create unnecessary inconvenience.
There will be no designated detour.
Motorists will need to use other existing roads to reach their destinations and should not attempt to enter the closed portion of Mishlich Drive from County N. For emergency personnel, fire, sheriff, EMS, or other authorized responders, access to Mishlich Drive and Three Springs Lane will be available from Hustlers Bridge.
Access will not be available from county end.
The closure will remain in place until the site distance hazard has been corrected or until a qualified safety or engineering review determines that mislitch drive can be reopened safely.
The town board will review the closure periodically and will provide notice of any change.
The Richland Center redevelopment authority is scheduled to hold a meeting on Tuesday at 5.30 p.m.
The gathering will take place in the council chambers of the municipal building located at 450 South Main Street.
The agenda begins with standard organizational business, including a roll call to confirm a quorum and verify proper public notice.
Members will then conduct an election of officials or officers, excuse me, review and approve the meeting minutes from March 25th, 2026 and receive the latest treasurer's report detailing the authority's financial status.
Substantive discussion and possible action items on the open agenda focus on key community development matters.
The board is slated to consider a proposal submitted by Bedward Properties.
Later in the proceedings, the board plans to convene into closed session pursuant to Wisconsin's statue section 19.851E.
This closed session will allow members to deliberate and negotiate competitive or bargaining strategy concerning the investment of public funds and the potential sale of the RDA property at 300 West Union Street and 300 North Orange Street.
Following those discussions, the authority will reconvene into open session pursuant to Wisconsin statute section 19.852 to consider the and take any appropriate public action on the matters deliberated during the closed portion of the meeting.
In a heartfelt demonstration of community support, local resident Lori Bradley has donated $1,152 worth of stuffed toys to the Richland Hospital Emergency Department to provide comfort and reassurance to patients.
Bradley, who lives just north of Ithaca, purchased the toys from Richland Center Business, the Robin's Nest, to help bring smiles to patients during difficult moments.
Bradley's lifelong commitment to children guided her generous decision.
Having worked as a four-year-old kindergarten assistant in Weston, Ithaca, and Richland Center, Lincoln, she knew firsthand who would benefit most from the comforting toys.
When the owners of the Robbis Desk, Diana, Janet, and Lindsay Swenson sought to downsize their inventory, Bradley purchased all of their stuffed animals, surprising the owners with her immediate and clear vision for their use.
The stuffed toys will be distributed to children and other patients navigating stressful or uncertain hospital visits.
Hospital leaders express deep appreciation for the contribution emphasizing the powerful community spirit it represents.
Linda Tyler-Doudna, RN, and Director of the Emergency Department, praise Bradley's generosity, noting that such comforting compassion are vital to creating a reassuring and supportive care experience for patients and families alike.
The 170th annual Iowa County Fair concludes today at the Iowa County Fairgrounds and Mineral Point.
There is an antique tractor display from now until 7.
At 12.30, Tony Rocker will be live as Elvis.
Harness racing and crowning of the 2027 Ferris of the Fair will be at 1.
There will also be animal shows and exhibits, midway rides and food.
Admissions $10 for adults, $5 for youth ages 8 to 12, and ages 7 under are admitted free.
You can find more information in a full schedule at iowacountyfair.com The Richland County Executive and Finance Standing Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday at 5 p.m.
The meeting will take place in the Richland County Boardroom at the County Courthouse and virtual attendance options will be available.
A primary focus of the meeting will be closed session to deliberate on the county's stance regarding current and potential contracts for emergency medical services
to specific municipalities.
Following the closed session, the committee may take action on any items discussed.
Members of the public are welcome to attend and provide comments during the designated public comment period.
As the 2026 hunting season approaches, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is encouraging hunters across the state to take full advantage of Wisconsin's vast network of public lands.
Spanning over 6 million acres, these public grounds over extraordinary opportunities for both seasoned outdoorsmen and newcomers alike.
Beyond state-owned properties, hunters will also have to have access to roughly 8,000 acres of voluntary or voluntary public access lands.
Private properties open to public use through landowner agreements funded by the U.S.
Department of Agriculture.
To help hunters navigate these expansive grounds, the DNR provides dynamic, mobile-friendly online mapping tools designed for preliminary research.
The public access lands tool offers comprehensive visual data on DNR properties along with nearly all federal and county owned lands while also marking open managed forest law and forest crop law areas.
For bird hunters, the fields and forest lands interactive game bird hunting tool helps pinpoint young aspen and older habitats, prime woodcock and roughed grouse hunting spots, pheasant stocked public grounds and public access dove fields.
Additionally, the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program interactive maps display private lands where financial incentives encourage year-round public hunting access.
While digital tools provide a great starting point, the DNR emphasizes the online mapping is only the first step.
In-person scouting is essential to identify active wildlife sites and assesses local habitat conditions.
Hunters should always scout multiple locations prior to opening day to ensure they have reliable backup options in case of sudden weather shifts or higher hunter pressure in a given area.
Above all, adherence to foundational firearm safety rules remains paramount.
Hunters should strictly follow the Tab K principles at all times.
And that is to treat every firearm as if it was loaded.
Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
Be certain of your target.
What is before it?
and what lies beyond it.
And keep your finger outside the trigger guard until you're ready to shoot.
For full regulations, season dates, and hunting hours, hunters can visit the DNR's Hunter Resources webpage to prepare for a safe and successful 2026 season.
In a major policy push aimed at revitalizing the domestic cattle industry, President Trump has signed two key executive orders while U.S.
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced a series of complementary measures designed to protect livestock and enhance market transparency.
Assessing or addressing what officials describe as the smallest national herd since the 1950s
The coordinated effort seeks to reverse declining cattle numbers by offering financial and regulatory relief to producers across the country.
Central to the new executive actions is a focus strategy to mitigate livestock loss from natural predators.
Under the first order, the Department of Interior is tasked with reviewing to protect status of gray wolves and Mexican wolves under the Endangered Species Act to evaluate delisting or downlisting.
Furthermore, both the Interior and Agricultural Departments are updating comprehensive guidelines for ranchers affected by predation and while streamlining authorizations for lethal removal when necessary.
To bolster consumer transparency and market fairness, the administration is reexamining a country of origin labeling for beef products in consultation with the United States Trade Representative.
These measures build upon the voluntary product of USDA designation to ensure clear identification of domestic beef.
Simultaneously, federal authorities are targeting market concentration among major meat packers by directing the USDA to intensify enforcement under the Packers and Stockyards Act and work closely with the Department of Justice on an investigation oversight.
Beyond regulatory oversight, the USDA Rancher's first initiative and the 2025 beef plan introduced expanded land conservation and technological updates.
Nearly one million new acres will be enrolled in the Grasslands Conservation Reserve Program and the Agricultural Marketing Service is scaling its remote grading and instrument-enhanced grading programs to lower processing overhead.
Paired with state-level processing expansions, new loan guarantees, and federal purchasing preferences for local beef, these policies mark a comprehensive effort to modernize and safeguard the future of American ranching.
The Vernon County Community Development Department has announced the return of the Vernon County Awards for 2026.
This year's banquet is scheduled for Wednesday, November 4 at Willow & Oak at Hillsborough Brewing Company in Hillsborough.
Now entering its fourth year, the event serves to celebrate the local individuals, businesses, and organizations that contribute to making Vernon County a thriving community.
The theme for the 2026 banquet is stronger together, adapting, innovating, thriving, and emphasizes the resilience and collaborative spirit of the region's residents and businesses in overcoming challenges and embracing new ideas.
A new highlight for this year's festivities is an optional brewery tour of Hillsborough Brewing Company, Vernon County's only brewery.
Starting at 4pm, the tour will provide guests with a look at the history of the company and the historic building it calls home before the dinner and awards ceremony begin.
Nominations for the awards are officially open from September 1st through September 30th.
Categories include honors for businesses, events, nonprofits, young leaders, and health and safety services.
Community members interested in submitting nominations or seeking more information can access the full list of categories and forms on the Vernon County website.
The national average price of diesel has reached an unprecedented all-time high of 585 per gallon, surpassing the previous record of 582 per gallon set in June of 2022.
According to recent data from Fuel Savings Platform Gas Buddy, this surge represents a sharp increase of over $2 per gallon compared to September of last year when diesel was priced at $370.
While gasoline price fluctuations often capture the public's attention, the escalating cost of diesel poses a more profound and far-reaching threat to the broader economy and consumer inflation.
Diesel serves as the primary energy source power in critical sectors of the U.S.
infrastructure, including freight transportation, railway networks, agricultural machinery, and heavy construction equipment.
As diesel prices climb, the cost of transporting goods rises in tandem.
These elevated supply chain expenses are ultimately passed down to consumers, leading to higher prices for everyday necessities, such as groceries, household products, and delivery services.
Patrick Dahan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, noted that diesel is the fuel that moves the economy.
And when its prices reach record levels, the financial repercussions are felt far beyond the transportation sector.
To depart the dramatic increase in fuel, cost has been driven by a combination of global energy market factors, including geopolitical tensions, persistent supply chain disruptions, elevated oil prices, tight global inventories, and reduced oil refining capacity abroad.
In response to this volatility, an increased number of drivers and businesses are turning to digital tools to manage their budgets.
GasBuddy, which saw over 515,000 unique user reports fuel prices in August of this year alone, recommends that drivers actively compare local fuel prices to identify savings.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency or
FEMA has announced the approval of nearly $36 million in post-disaster funding and hazard mitigation grants from Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
These programs aim to empower state, local, tribal, and territorial governments to recover from recent disasters, rebuild critical infrastructure, and improve long-term community resilience against future events.
The largest portion of approved funding consists of 29 million awarded under FEMA's public assistance program across three states.
This funding is distributed to support repairs to critical infrastructure, restoration of public buildings, road repairs, and reimbursement for cost incurred to protect public health and safety.
Specific allocations include 12 million to the
Altman Health Foundation in Ohio for emergency protective measures and medical care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, the Michigan Department of Technology Management and Budget is awarded $2.7 million for debris removal and communication tower repairs following a 2025 winter storm, while the Michigan State Patrol Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division receives $1.3 million for state management cost and severe storms and flooding in April of 2026.
Wisconsin Emergency Management also receives 800,000 to cover administration costs following 2025 storms and flooding in the Milwaukee metro area.
Additionally, $5.7 million is awarded through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to prevent or reduce future disaster-related damage in Michigan and Wisconsin.
Key projects include more than $4.9 million for stormwater and sewer facility improvements in Oakland County, Michigan, which will benefit over 185,000 residents and over $139,000 for a flood study evaluating mitigation options for a major road in Wrightstown, Wisconsin.
Furthermore, FEMA has approved over 854,000 under the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Program to fund embankment stabilization along Miami Street and Toledo, Ohio, protecting local homes and vital roadways during heavy rains.
All projects align with FEMA's principles of being state-led and federally supported to ensure robust disaster recovery and proactive threat mitigation.
More information can be found at FEMA.gov.
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is accepting applications for its Food Security and Wisconsin Grant Program.
Program Manager April Yanser says the funding helps stock pantry shelves with fresh Wisconsin-grown fruits, vegetables, dairy products, proteins, and other locally produced foods.
Yanser says the program not only helps food assistance organizations meet rising demand, but also creates partnership between local farmers and food pantries.
State officials say the grant supports access to healthy, culture,
relevant foods.
More information is available on the DatCap website.
More people are in favor of labor unions this Labor Day.
Economic Policy Institute Deputy Director Jennifer Sherer told Iowa PBS a recent Gallup poll found that approval rate for organized labor is at 71%.
The future of public unions in Wisconsin is still in the air as a legal fight over Wisconsin Act 10, which banned collective bargaining for most public unions, makes its way through the courts.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reminds anglers that the 2026 hook and line season for Lake Sturgeon is now open on certain waters through September 30th.
All anglers looking to harvest a Lake Sturgeon must have their general 2026 fishing license and a valid hook and line.
Sturgeon Tag.
License and tags may be purchased online through GoWild or from a licensed vendor.
Anglers are reminded that only one Sturgeon with a minimum length measurement of 60 inches may be harvested during the season.
Tags must be immediately validated upon harvesting with all harvested Sturgeon registered at a designated registration station.
A hook and line sturgeon tag is not required if an angler plans to release the sturgeon they catch in an open season.
The DNR urges anglers to practice responsible catch and release when releasing any fish they do not wish to keep.
Please note that it is illegal to fish by snagging, foul hooking, and attempting to hook fish other than in the mouth.
Sturgeon may only be targeted in waters with an open hook and line season even if anglers intend to release their catch.
If a tag sturgeon is caught, please submit the catch information to the county's fisheries biologist to help the DNR and future sturgeon management practices.
Anglers can find a list of other open sturgeon fishing waters and additional information on the DNR's inland hook and line sturgeon webpage.
Recent enforcement activities by the Wisconsin Office of Commissioner of Insurance underscores a rigorous commitment to professional accountability, with over 25 different agents facing disciplinary measures in the latest reporting period.
The most prevalent catalyst for severe action remains the failure to meet state fiscal obligations as eight intermediaries saw their licenses immediately revoked due to delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
This firm's stance on financial integrity ensures that only those in good standing with the state are permitted to continue serving the public.
Beyond tax issues, professional negligence such as failing to respond to OCI inquiries or neglecting to pay previous financial forfeitures,
frequently led to additional license surrenders and revocations highlighting a low tolerance for ignoring regulatory oversight.
Misconduct with consumer interactions also represents a significant portion of recent enforcement actions.
Multiple agents were penalized for unauthorized enrollments of consumers into health insurance plans and for making misrepresentations during the sales process.
These deceptive practices often involve misleading residents about the nature of their coverage, recommending unsuitable plans, or using another agent's credentials to bypass appointment requirements.
In more extreme cases, agents were found selling unauthorized insurance products or committing outright fraud by presenting false claims.
Such patterns of this honesty not only trigger substantial financial forfeitures, but also serve as a primary reason for the denial of new license applications and the permanent removal of established intermediaries from the market.
Furthermore, OCI's disciplinary records reveal a critical focus on the disclosure of professional history.
Several individuals face penalties of licensed denials for failing to timely report administrative actions taken by other states or for providing incomplete information regarding criminal histories on their applications.
These omissions coupled with instances of failing to comply with court-ordered child support are viewed as reflections on an applicant's character and fitness for the industry.
By systematically addressing these common misconduct patterns, ranging from tax-linked delinquency to unauthorized enrollments to nondisclosure and misrepresentation, the OCI maintains a transparent and reliable environment for Wisconsin's insurance consumers.
Today's winners in St.
Anthony's auction calendar raffle are $250 winners and they are Patty Braun with Ticket 629 and Bunn-Daitelhoff with Ticket number 88.
Today is Monday, September 7th.
Francis J. Howe, 90 of Hillsborough, died August 31st at home.
Visitation is being held from now until 7 at the Pee Haw funeral home in Hillsborough with an informal service at 7.
A short visitation will be held tomorrow at 10 before the funeral mass at 11 at Holy Family Catholic Church in Laval.
Burial will follow at the Czech's National Cemetery in Yuba.
To honor Francis' legacy of caring and generosity, memorials are preferred in Lua Flowers to St.
Jude's Children's Hospital or a charity of your choice.
Francis J. Howe, 90, of Hillsboro.
Charles J. Charlie McClary,
89 of Muscatay died August 30 at Soldiers Grove Health Services.
Funeral services will be held tomorrow at 11 at the Pratt Memorial Chapel.
Burial will follow in the Basswood Cemetery with military graveside rights to be conducted by the local Military Memorial Honors Unit.
Visitation will be held tomorrow at the Pratt Memorial Chapel
from 9 until 11.
The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family with arrangements.
Charles J. Charlie McClary 89 of Muscaday Valerie Renee Posh 39 of Wausau, formerly of Richland Center, died unexpectedly Thursday.
Visitation will be held Friday
from five to eight at the Pratt Memorial Chapel in Richland Center.
The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting the family with their arrangements.
Valerie Renee Posh, 39 of Wausau, formerly of Richland Center.
Joan O. Spillman Albaugh, 93 of Bloom City, died August 28.
A graveside service will be held Saturday at 11 at the Bloom City Cemetery.
The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Today is September 7th.
These are today's vital statistics.
Francis J. Howe, 90 of Hillsborough, died Monday, August 31st at home.
Visitation will be at the Piha Funeral Home today from 4 until 7 p.m.
with an informal service at 7 p.m.
A short visitation will be held at 10 a.m.
before the funeral mass at 11 tomorrow.
at Holy Family Catholic Church in Laval.
Burial will follow in the Czech National Cemetery in Yuba.
To honor Francis' legacy of caring and generosity, memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers to St.
Jude Children's Hospital.
Francis J. Howe, 90 of Hillsboro.
Charles J.
Charlie McClary, 89 of Muscaday, died August 30 at Soldiers Grove Health Services.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, September 8 at 11 a.m.
at the Pratt Memorial Chapel.
Burial will follow in the Basswood Cemetery with military graveside rights to be conducted by the local Military Memorial Honors Unit.
Visitation will be held Tuesday at the Pratt Chapel from 9 a.m.
until 11 a.m.
The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting the family.
Charles J. Charlie McClary, 89 of Muscaday.
Valerie Renee Posh, 39 of Wasaw, formerly of Richland Center, died unexpectedly Thursday, September 3rd.
Visitation will be held Friday, September 11th from 5 until 8 at the Pratt Memorial Chapel in Richland Center.
The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting the family.
Valerie Renee Posh, 39 of Wausau, formerly of Richland Center.
Joan O. Spillman, Albaugh, 93 of Bloom City died August 28th.
A graveside service will be held at 11 a.m.
Saturday, September 12th at the Bloom City Cemetery.
The Pratt Funeral Anchormation Service is assisting the family.
Joan O. Spillman, Albaugh, 93 of Bloom City.
Today is Monday, September 7th.
Good evening for WRCO News.
Setting in for Todd Copernall.
I'm Tim Thied.
The town of Richland is notifying the public that Miss Litch Drive will be temporarily closed at
or before its intersection with County N effective immediately.
The closure is being made because the intersection presents an immediate and unacceptable safety hazard.
Trees and overgrown vegetation obstruct the view of the traffic approaching on County N, making it difficult or impossible for a driver traveling from Miss Litch Drive to see approaching vehicles before entering the intersection.
This condition creates a serious risk of a collision, particularly for school buses, emergency vehicles, residents, and other motorists.
This closure is a public safety measure.
It is not intended to interfere with emergency services or to create unnecessary inconvenience.
There will be no designated detour.
Motorists will need to use other existing roads
to reach their destinations and should not attempt to enter the closed portion of Miss Lich Drive from County N.
For emergency personnel, fire, sheriff, EMS, and other authorized responders, access to Miss Litch Drive and Three Springs Lane will be available from Hustlers Ridge.
Access will not be available from County N. The closure will remain in place until site distance hazards have been corrected or until a qualified safety or engineering review.
determines that misslidged drive can be reopened safely.
The town board will review the closure periodically and will provide notice of any change.
In a heartfelt demonstration of community support, local resident Lori Bradley has donated $1,152 worth of stuffed toys to the Richland Hospital Emergency Department
to provide comfort and reassurance to patients.
Bradley, who lives just north of Ithaca, purchased the toys from Richland Center Business, the Robin's Nest, to help bring smiles to patients during difficult moments.
Bradley's lifelong commitment to children guided her generous decision.
Having worked as a four-year-old kindergarten assistant in Weston, Ithaca and Richland Center, Lincoln, she knew firsthand
who should benefit most from the comforting toys.
When the owners of the Robin's Nest, Diana Janicek and Lindsay Swenson sought to downsize their inventory, Bradley purchased all of their stuffed animals, surprising the owners with her immediate and
clear vision of their use.
The stuffed toys will be distributed to children and other patients navigating stressful or uncertain hospital visits.
Hospital leaders expressed deep appreciation for the contribution, emphasizing the powerful community spirit it represents.
Linda Tyler Doudna, RN and director of the emergency department,
praised Bradley's generosity, noting that such comfort and compassion are vital to creating a reassuring and supportive care experience for patients and families alike.
Volunteers ages 18 and over are needed to man gates for the Richland County Fair.
Please contact Lyrica Marks at lyrica.marks.co.org.
Richland.wi.us if you can help, even one hour helps.
The gates are the top priority, but volunteers are also needed for grandstand security, garbage patrol, and vendor assistance.
The Richland Center redevelopment authority is scheduled to hold a meeting
Tomorrow at 530, the gathering will take place in the council chambers of the municipal building located at 450 South Main Street.
The agenda begins with standard organizational business, including a roll call to confirm a quorum and verify proper public notice.
Members will then conduct an election of officers, review and approve the meeting minutes from March 25th of 2026 and receive the latest treasurer's report.
detailing the authority's financial status.
Substantive discussion and possible action items on the open agenda focus on key community development matters.
The board is slated to consider a proposal submitted by Bedward Properties.
Later in the proceedings, the board plans to convene into closed session pursuant to Wisconsin's statue section.
19.85.
This closed session will allow members to deliberate and negotiate competitive or bargaining strategy concerning the investment of public funds and potential sale of the RDA property at 300 West Union Street and 300 North Orange Street.
Following those discussions, the authority will reconvene into open sessions pursuant to the Wisconsin Statute Section 19.85 to consider and take any appropriate public action
on the matters deliberated during the closed portion of the meeting.
The national average price of diesel has reached an unprecedented all-time high of $5.85 per gallon, surpassing the previous record of $5.82 per gallon set in June of 2022.
According to the recent data from fuel savings platforms, GasBuddy, this search represents a sharp increase over
$2 per gallon compared to September of 2025, when diesel was priced at $3.70.
While gasoline prices fluctuations often capture the public's attention, the escalating cost of diesel poses a more profound and far-reaching threat to the broader economy and consumer inflation.
Diesel serves as the primary energy source powering critical sectors of the United States infrastructure, including freight transportation, railway, networks, agricultural machinery, and heavy construction equipment.
As diesel prices climb, the cost of transporting goods rises in tandem.
These elevated supply chain expenses are ultimately passed down to consumers leading to higher prices for everyday necessities, such as groceries, household products, and delivery services.
Patrick DeHaan had a petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, noted that diesel is the fuel that moves the economy, and when its prices reached record levels, the financial repercussions are felt far beyond the transportation sector.
The dramatic increase in fuel costs have been driven by a combination of global energy market factors, including geopolitical tensions, persistent supply chain disruptions, elevated oil prices, tight global inventories, and reduced oil refining capacity abroad.
In response to this volatility, an increasing number of drivers and businesses are turning to digital tools to manage their budgets.
Guess Buddy, which saw over 515,000 unique users report fuel prices in August 2026 alone, recommends that drivers actively compare local fuel prices to identify savings.
In a majority policy push aimed at revitalizing the domestic cattle industry, President Trump has signed two key executive orders while U.S.
Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke L. Rollins, announced a series of complementary measures designed to protect livestock and enhance market transparency.
addressing what officials describe as the smallest national herd since the 1950s.
The coordinated effort seeks to reverse declining cattle numbers by offering financial and regulatory relief to producers across the country.
Central to the new executive actions in a focused strategy to mitigate livestock loss from neutral predators under the first order, the Department of the Interior is tasked with reviewing the protection status of great
wolves and Mexican wolves under the Endangered Species Act to evaluate the listing or downlisting.
Furthermore, both the Interior and Agriculture Departments are updating compensation guidelines for ranchers affected by predation while streamlining authoritarian
authorizations for lethal removal when necessary.
To bolster consumer transparency, the market fairness, the administration is reexamining country of origin labeling for beef products in consultation with the United States trade representatives.
These measures build upon the voluntary product of USA
designation to ensure clear identification of domestic beef.
Simultaneously, federal authorities are targeting market concentration among major meat packers for directing the USDA to intensify enforcement under the Packers and Stockyards Act and work closely with the Department of Justice on investigation oversight.
Beyond regulatory oversight, the USDA's Ranchers First Initiative and 2025 Beef Plan introduced expanded land conservation and technological updates.
Nearly one million new acres will be enrolled in the Grasslands Conservation Reserve Program and the Agricultural Marketing Service in scaling its remote grading and instrument-enhanced grading programs to lower
processing overhead.
Paired with state-level processing expansions, new loan guarantees and federal purchasing preferences for local beef, these policies mark a comprehensive effort to modernize and safeguard the future of American ranching.
And today's winners in the St.
Anthony's Auction Raffle are
Patty Braun on ticket number 629 and Bunn-Daitelhoff on ticket 88 both have won $50.
Congratulations to the both of you.
Monday's Roundup.
Brought to you by Chets, Feed, Seed and Such, Richland Hospital, Cardinal Glass CG, and by New Tech Carts.
It's joke day with Phil and Hank, so brace yourself.
These jokes aren't just corny, they're full-on field-tested.
If you're groaning, laughing, or questioning your life choices, you're doing it right.
It's Monday's Roundup.
Making Mondays just a little less Monday-y.
It's time for the roundup!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
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them
out!
Cut them out!
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them
out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
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Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them
out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them
out!
Cut
them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them
out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Cut them out!
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Cut them out!
Cut them out!
Have you in here today?
Yeah, that's right.
Off to a bad start.
Whoa, what's that supposed to mean?
It's Chet's Monday.
Chet's Chuckle.
I wonder if Chet's is open today.
I don't think so.
They work hard during the weekend.
They don't
have to work on labor.
Definitely do.
Yeah.
Unlike one of us.
Yeah,
radio people.
Yes.
Yes.
Yes.
Anyway, do you have any fun over the weekend?
You know, a
little bit.
See the
grand babies or do?
No, didn't see the grand babies.
got out and about, did a little, of course we did football Friday night and then did a little iron hour, worked on the yard a little bit.
I have
some, I have some mice, I think getting into the house already.
So that's real.
That's not a good sign.
No, it's not a good sign.
Especially when it's 118 out there.
And I figure out where they're getting into.
I'll have to have you come and help me plug the hole.
Is
it a hole hole or is it?
Underneath or is it in the concrete?
It's by the sidewalk.
Yeah.
Okay.
They're pretty good at that too.
You got to chew some gum and plug that hole or something.
Have you put an Irish spring bar soap there?
Does
that
work?
Sometimes it does.
Slice a little Irish soap up?
Or even spray some, you know.
Sometimes that works as well.
All
right.
But they don't they don't like being clean for some reason
really
are singing the Irish.
Oh,
yes.
Yeah, what was the slogan for Irish?
The lady.
Yeah, the lady would say manly.
Yes, but I like it too.
I've never heard that.
Well, maybe I have.
I just they advertised for a man and then she would say it's manly.
Yes, but I like it.
Oh, yes.
Yes.
Yes.
Didn't they have a, didn't the guys whistle?
Or
is that another one?
Yes, that's that's old spice.
Oh my goodness wrong commercial Hank that blooper Well,
here we go
for your Monday morning question on Labor Day.
What is the most annoying thing about your best friend?
Oh
man
Do it do it do it do it do it do it do it do it
do it.
Yeah, exactly Yeah, got me into some trouble here in there.
Did
he
yeah or did them?
Yeah, yeah, right Brian Alvin.
Yeah, Marty Richards.
No, no, I considered
Joan, my best friend.
So there you go.
Oh, so then we're going to have to be real, real careful.
Um, when I say the most annoying thing about my best friend is she likes the bears.
So there you
go.
I
said,
what have you done over the weekend to, uh, to bring this about?
It's just like the love potion, man.
Are you okay?
Yeah.
I mean, this is like, I was assuming that when you were
in high school, but
Oh, no, I'm saying, you know, she's my best friend and I understand.
She likes the bears and it's Labor Day and she's not listening.
She's sleeping.
So there you go.
Oh boy.
I want to take the, I'm going to take this recorded part and I'm going to record it and
send it
to her.
Okay.
You might be a redneck or from Arkansas, Phillip.
If you've argued for a half an hour about chicken being from the sea.
I like that.
You mean it isn't?
Well, it used to be,
I
guess.
Chicken of the sea.
But it's confusing because you can get chicken in a can that's made by chicken of the sea.
Yes.
And you can buy the wrong can and get tuna.
Exactly.
You can make chicken salad sandwiches with it.
It is disgusting.
Yeah.
Well,
I don't know.
To
me, again, that's my opinion.
I'm not a tuna guy.
Oh, you don't like
tuna?
No.
Oh, OK.
Huh.
No.
No.
I had a female companion at one time.
When she was mad at me, she would make tuna salad.
Oh, purposely.
Purposely
I couldn't
eat
you didn't like it.
Yeah.
Oh, yeah You're kind of picky
there
Hank not picky.
You don't like it.
Just don't like it No, I just
don't not even a tuna casserole, you know with some noodles and some cheese thrown in there,
you know No, I'd rather go have Hank's garbage any made on Friday.
Really?
Yeah Well, do you like tuna?
Yes, I do for you.
I do
I'd rather eat chicken out of the bag.
Chicken out of the bag?
Just plain old white chicken out of the bag.
What if it has to be?
It'd be tough, Phil.
Yeah.
Do you have any fun with the Labor
Day jokes?
Well, my wife gave me a Labor Day Honeydew list.
Really?
I told her Labor Day means no labor.
So I'll let you know tomorrow about where I'm going to live.
Uh-uh.
You got a spot for me?
No.
No,
OK.
Not anymore.
All right.
I made a big list of projects, Phillip, over for Labor Day weekend.
Then I got tired from writing, then the list and I took a nap.
Oh, really?
That's too bad.
It's tough.
Wow.
Yeah, it's tough.
Well, we'll see if we can come up with anything better after this time out from our sponsor, Chats Feed Seed and such.
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Without you, there won't be us.
All right, we have some guest lecturers on Labor Day.
I wonder if they're actually working
today.
No, but here we go.
So I want to tell you guys it's been a bit of an odd day.
First, I found a hat full of money.
Then I was chased by an angry guy with a guitar.
Wow.
Chris just has bad luck.
It took me a moment, but now I realize, yeah, he took the
guy's tip
jar.
Hats off to
him.
Tip of the hat for him.
Oh, that's Simonson boy.
He's always up to no good.
Always up
to no good.
He could run pretty fast though with the guy's tip money.
Yeah.
Yeah.
Who
else is here?
Oh, it looks like the barbers kid
is
here.
Henry,
did I ever tell you about my uncle?
No.
He wasn't the swiftest guy.
One time he bought a set of snow tires.
They melted on the way
home.
Not bad.
That's rough.
I didn't know why we're
here.
That'd be bad.
Oh, I tell you what, Jeepers, you get snow tires and they melt before you get home.
That's just not good.
I was going to mow the yard this morning, Phil.
I'm going to mow the yard this morning.
And then I remember my ancestors fought hard so I could set in the launcher and stare at it.
Oh, boy.
You know what I mean?
It's
yeah, I know what you mean.
Yeah.
Yeah.
You're taking labor day off this year, right?
It depends.
Yeah.
How are we able to tell if you're.
taking it off.
You're not,
man.
Well, thanks, boss.
Yeah.
Yeah.
That's pretty good one too.
Thank you.
Yeah.
Yeah.
I thought, I thought you were going to take it off, but no.
So you told me the other day that Labor Day is a celebration of hard work, Phillip.
Oh yeah.
So
apparently I wasn't invited to the party.
No, no.
Yes.
Anyway, my goal this Labor Day is simple, eat a brat, take a nap, contribute absolutely nothing to the gross domestic product.
There we go.
I got my day all the time.
Oh my goodness.
But if I eat too many brats, it'll really be a gross domestic
thing going
on.
Yeah.
But you'd be fine though, wouldn't
it?
Well,
yeah, probably.
Well, let's see.
I told my doctor I was planning on eating healthier on Labor Day.
Yeah.
Yeah.
It turns out that I'm going to put lettuce on both sides of my burger.
Oh, that's a good idea.
It's tough, you know, it's tough, Phil.
Put in a little, you know, a little ketchup and mayonnaise and what else you like on your burger?
I'm a mustard
guy, Phillip.
I'm kind of a, it's called Southwest Heat.
It just has a little bit of, it's good flavoring.
A
little hot?
It's not that hot, but I like zest it up for you.
So our ribs, barbecued ribs work.
Oh, that's good too.
Our smoked ribs.
Yeah.
June does,
A little mixture of mustard and mayonnaise mixes
in, dips her fries in there.
Is it kind of like a Chick-fil-A sauce or something?
I don't know, I've not tried it.
You haven't tried it.
Why not?
I don't know.
I'm just a catch-up guy.
You know, I like some.
You're always trying to catch up.
I like my fries with my catch-up.
Yeah, but that could be a word for Friday, catch-up.
Catch-up.
Phil's always trying to play catch-up.
Yeah, exactly.
catch up oh well well my labor day started with big plans on friday afternoon and ends monday night with me saying well maybe next weekend maybe next weekend that's all i've got you know i got a kicker here real fast
get out of a small
kicker get out of the way
is it
time
for the kid yeah go ahead
man all right my son asked me how did you make it without a computer when you were a kid dad i told him hmm i did have a computer son so i took his cell phone and i gave him a number two pencil
And a pencil sharpener, he responded, what is this dad?
I told him my very first computer.
The pointed end is your printer.
The eraser is your delete button.
And the pencil sharpener is your refresh button.
P.S.
He doesn't want to know anything else about my past.
That's true though.
Think about that.
I did.
I
thought I saw
stuff.
I mean, a computer back then, you're rich.
Oh, yes.
Right.
Yeah.
And they didn't do much other than just kind of sit there.
Yeah.
You didn't really know how to do.
Yeah.
I didn't know how you had to write programs for them, which I couldn't even write on a piece of alphabet paper.
Exactly.
Trace
the lines, Hank.
Trace
the
lines.
And I love the old computer paper with the, the
tracks, the tracks on the
sides.
You ever seen one jam?
Oh,
yeah, they're awesome mess.
Oh, it's
a horrible mess.
My friend, I hope you have a great day.
You know what?
Go labor.
Yeah.
Don't go into labor.
I'm almost there.
Be kind, my friend.
Have a
good day.
Take break.
Good morning, everyone.
For WRCO News, I'm Todd Copper, and all 63 sunny degrees in Richland Center right now.
Very comfortable outside, sunny and cloud mixed today with a high of 80 degrees later on, but great out there right now.
In the news this morning, the 170th annual Iowa County Fair concludes today at the Iowa County Fair grounds in Mineral Point.
There will be an antique tractor display from 10 o'clock until 7.
A Euker Tournament and Barnyard Olympics will be at 11.
At 12.30, Tony Rocker will be live as Elvis, harness racing and crowning of the 2027 Ferris of the Fair.
will be at one o'clock.
There will also be animal shows and exhibits, midway rides and food.
The town of Richland is notifying the public that Mislick Drive will be temporarily closed at or before its intersection with County N effective immediately.
The closure is being made because the intersection presents an immediate and unacceptable safety hazard.
Trees and overgrown vegetation obstruct the view of traffic approaching on County N, making it difficult or impossible for a driver traveling from Mystic Drive to see approaching vehicles before entering the intersection.
This condition creates a serious risk of a collision, particularly for school buses, emergency vehicles.
residents.
This closure is a public safety measure.
It is not intended to interfere with emergency services or to create unnecessary inconvenience.
There will be no designated detour.
Motorists will need to use other existing roads to reach their destinations and should not attempt to enter the closed portion of Mislick Drive from County N. For emergency personnel, fire, sheriff, EMS, and other authorized responders,
Access to Mislick Drive and Three Springs Lane will be available from Hustlers Ridge.
Access will not be available from County End.
The closure will remain in place until the site distance hazard has been corrected or until a qualified safety or engineering review determines that Mislick Drive can be reopened safely.
The Town Board will review the closure periodically and will provide notice of any change.
The county EMS ad hoc committee has canceled the public EMS town hall originally scheduled for September 29th as townships and municipalities continue to lead discussions on the matter.
Communication between the organizations is ongoing and public input is still encouraged.
Residents are advised to contact their township or municipalities representatives or EMS ad hoc committee chair Bob Frank.
for further information.
The Richland County Executive and Finance Standing Committee is scheduled to meet Thursday, September 10th at 5 p.m.
The meeting will take place in the Richland County Boardroom at the County Courthouse with virtual attendance options available.
A primary focus of the meeting will be a closed session to deliberate on the county's stance regarding current and potential contracts for emergency medical services to specific municipalities.
Following the closed session, the committee may take action on any items discussed.
Members of the public are welcome to attend and provide comments during the designated public comment period.
The Richland Center Parks and Recreation Department is excited to announce the return of a beloved seasonal tradition.
The fourth annual Trick or Treat Trail will take place at Croskup Park Friday, October 23rd from 4.30pm until 6pm.
This community focused event invites residents of all ages to enjoy a festive evening of Halloween spirit and neighborhood connection.
Attendees can take a magical and slightly spooky stroll along the Rotary Lights path.
where they will find numerous city organizations and local businesses ready to fill bags with treats.
The festivities continue at the Veterans Memorial Pavilion, where the Brewer Public Library will be hosting a variety of Halloween themed games for children and families to enjoy.
Participation in the trail and games is entirely free for all guests.
In the spirit of giving the event will also serve as a collection point for a local food pantry drive.
Attendees are encouraged to bring non-perishable food items to help support those in need within the community.
Every donation is greatly appreciated and makes a meaningful difference for local families during the holiday season.
Convenient parking is available at two primary locations to accommodate the expected turnout.
Guests may park at the North Park lot, which offers a short scenic walk across the bridge into the main event area.
Alternatively, parking is provided at the Richland Center Community Center.
Local businesses and organizations that wish to participate by handing out treats along the trail are encouraged to register soon.
Interested parties can secure their spot by calling 647.
8108 extension 1.
The Verroqua Chamber of Commerce is proud to invite the community to a special ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the arrival of two exciting new businesses.
Round River Distilling,
And the Day Moon Restaurant will officially celebrate their opening on September 9th at 12 noon.
Located at 741 South Main Street, this dual opening represents a significant addition to the vibrant local business landscape of Verroquo.
The ceremony offers a unique opportunity for local leaders, fellow entrepreneurs, and residents to gather and support the growth of the community.
In a collaborative launch, Daemoon Restaurant will open its doors within the same building as the distillery, providing a seamless experience for visitors looking to enjoy both high quality spirits.
An exceptional dining in one location.
Immediately following the formal ribbon cutting, attendees are encouraged to stay for an open house.
Guests will be able to tour the new facilities, engage with the dedicated owners and staff, and gain insight into the unique products and services that Round River Distilling and Day Moon bring to the area.
The Village of Spring Green Board will meet Wednesday, September night at 7 p.m.
at the Spring Green Village Office.
During the meeting, the board will consider a consent agenda covering routine reports and approvals.
This will include reviewing the monthly financial report and approving necessary disbursements.
Specific requests on the consent agenda include a temporary Class B retailers license for the Spring-Green Golf Club's Full Moon Open September 19th.
Street closure approvals for the Spring-Green Area Chamber of Commerce's Country Christmas events December 4th and 5th.
A request to hold the fireworks displayed December 5th and the annual Snowmobile Trail Land Use Agreement with the Association of Sock County Snowmobile Clubs.
Under old business, board members will address updates regarding the property abatement at 433 West Madison Street and discuss proposed amendments to Ordinance 180.
concerning bicycles and play vehicles.
For new business, the Board will take up discussions and potential actions regarding an appointment to the Plan Commission, Resolution R-2605, requesting an exemption from the county library tax, and Resolution R-2606, declaring official intent to reimburse expenditures for the Clean Water Fund Program Project.
Finally, preliminary figures.
For the 2027 village budget will be presented for board review.
In remembrance of the 25th anniversary of the September 11 terrorist attacks, the Wisconsin Veterans Museum in Madison has launched two new exhibits.
These displays pay tribute to the lives lost
honor the dedication of first responders and tell the compelling stories of individuals inspired to enlist and serve in the aftermath of the tragedy.
The first exhibit, titled Compassion Under Fire Stories of Combat Medics, is featured prominently in the museum's front window.
It explores the vital role of military medical personnel who deliver critical emergency care under extreme conditions during both combat and humanitarian missions.
Among the highlights is the story of Rachel Hugo, a Madison native and combat medic who gave her life while serving in Iraq in 2007.
The second edition, September 11, 2001, our veterans remember.
offers a digital experience drawing from oral history interviews.
This exhibit captures personal reflections and immediate reactions from Wisconsin veterans who were on active duty, recently separated from service or considering joining the military when the attacks occurred.
Both exhibits will remain open to the public throughout the month of September.
The Okuch Mountain Humane Society is inviting all members and the general public to attend a pivotal meeting scheduled for September 16th at 6pm at the Richland Center City Auditorium.
Following a contentious year that created significant operational strain, leadership is looking to re-engage with the local community to chart a path forward.
The board says the crisis stemmed from decisions made by former staff who focused heavily on providing emergency services outside of Richland County.
Since then, hard work has gone into stabilizing operations and leadership is now eager to share an update on current efforts.
During the meeting attendees will participate in an advisory vote aimed at determining the community's priorities for the future.
Organizers emphasize that the gathering is not about agreeing or disagreeing with individuals who have threatened legal action, but rather about hearing directly from members on what they believe the society's focus should be going forward.
Mineral Point is preparing to celebrate the vibrant world of textile arts with the return of the Sheikh Reg Ali Fiber Fair.
Saturday, September 26, this free event, held alongside the annual Cornish Festival and Celtic celebration, offers a unique opportunity for makers and enthusiasts to engage with the lifestyle of fiber.
Visitors can explore a pop-up market,
featuring local artisans witness live demonstrations of spinning and weaving and even meet the charming sheep from Sugar Springs Farm.
The afternoon will culminate in a fashion show at 2 p.m.
where participants are encouraged to showcase their handmade and upcycled creations.
Beyond the Fiber Fair, the Shake Reg Alley Campus remains a hub of activity throughout the fall season.
Literary fans can enjoy the final installment of the Alley Stage Reading Series September 20th.
While those looking for hands-on creativity can join the Makers and Shakers Art Party September 16th to craft fabric flowers.
As Halloween approaches, the Linde Pavilion will host a spirited Fright Night October 30th, followed by the beloved
Mineral Point tradition of Trick or Treat October 31st.
Whether you are interested in historical crafts or modern celebrations, these upcoming events provide a wonderful way to connect with the local arts community.
Today's vital statistics are sponsored by Krause Monument.
Krause Monument Company designs and produces granite headstones, gravestones, grave markers, monuments, and memorials.
Francis J. Howe, 90th Hillsboro, died August 31st at home.
Visitation will be at the Peahot Funeral Home in Hillsboro today from 4-7 with an informal service at 7.
A short visitation will also be held on
Tuesday at 10 a.m.
Before the funeral mass at 11 at Holy Family Catholic Church in the bow burial will follow in the Czech National Cemetery in Yuba to honor Francis's legacy of caring and generosity memorials are preferred in lieu of flowers to St.
Jude's Children's Hospital or a charity of your choice Francis is survived by his wife Cecil Cecily excuse me daughters Mary Lynn Howe and Jody Nelson two grandchildren three great-grandchildren
Sisters-in-law, Sister Christine Koba, and Barbara Barris, and many nieces, nephews, and friends, Francis J. Howe, 90 of Hillsboro.
Charles J. Charlie McClary, 89 of Muscaday, died August 30th at Soldiers Grove Health Services.
Funeral services will be held on Tuesday at 11 at the Pratt Memorial Chapel.
Burial will follow in the Basswood Cemetery.
Military graveside rites will be conducted by the local Military Memorial Honors Unit.
Friends may call on Tuesday at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 9 until the time of service at 11.
The Pratt funeral information service is assisting the family with arrangements.
Charlie is survived by his children, Ray, Rognas, Doug and Sharon Rognas, Cherie and Rudy Nigel, Neagle, excuse me, Pam Harris, Jean, Lizny,
Charles J. McCleary II and Kelly Jensen, 20 grandchildren, 36 great-grandchildren, three great-great-grandchildren, numerous other relatives and friends.
Charles J. Charlie McCleary, 89 of Muscaday.
Valerie Renee Posh, 39 of Warsaw, formerly of Richland Center, died unexpectedly on Thursday.
Friends may call on Friday from 5 until 8 at the Pratt Memorial Chapel in Richland Center.
The Pratt Funeral Adcremation Service is assisting the family with arrangements.
Valerie Posh is survived by her children, Hunter Garner and Jalissa Held, Hayden Hess and Harper Gillingham, her mother Sheila and stepfather Darren Buchholz, father Brent and stepmother Tammy Gillingham and stepmother Rita Gillingham.
Her brothers, Cody and Alicia Gillingham, Bruce Buchholz and Aliyah Ruland, Holden Gillingham, a nephew, along with extended family and many friends, Valerie Renee Posh, 39 of Wausau, formerly of Richland Center.
Joan O. Spillman-Aubau, 93 of Bloom City, died August 28th.
A graveside service will be held on Saturday at 11 at the Bloom City Cemetery.
The Prad Funeral Information Service is assisting the family with arrangements.
Joan is survived by her four children, Debbie and Ken Carroll, Grant Albao, Cindy Holly and Dwayne Albao.
Nine grandchildren, 18 great-grandchildren of the relatives and friends.
Joan O. Spillman Albao, 93 of Bloom City.
Good afternoon for WRCO News.
I'm Bo Hendricks in for Todd Copernon.
Volunteers ages 18 and over are needed to man the gates for this year's Richland County Fair.
Please contact Lyrica Marks at lyrica.marks at co.richland.wi.us if you can help, even if for only an hour.
The gates are the top priority, but volunteers are also needed for grandstand security, garbage patrol, and vendor assistance.
The town of Richland is notifying the public that Mislitch Drive will be temporarily closed at or before its intersection with County N effective immediately.
The closure is being made because the intersection presents an immediate and unacceptable safety hazard.
Trees and overgrowth vegetation obstruct the view of traffic approaching on County End, making it difficult or impossible for a driver traveling from Miss Lich Drive to see approaching vehicles before entering the intersection.
This condition creates a serious risk of a collision, particularly for school buses, emergency vehicles, residents, and other motorists.
This closure is a public safety measure.
It is not intended to interfere with emergency services or to create unnecessary inconvenience.
There will be no designated detour.
Motorists will need to use other existing roads to reach their destinations and should not attempt to enter the closed portion of Mishlich Drive from County N. For emergency personnel, fire, sheriff, EMS, or other authorized responders, access to Mishlich Drive and Three Springs Lane will be available from Hustlers Bridge.
Access will not be available from county end.
The closure will remain in place until the site distance hazard has been corrected or until a qualified safety or engineering review determines that mislitch drive can be reopened safely.
The town board will review the closure periodically and will provide notice of any change.
The Richland Center redevelopment authority is scheduled to hold a meeting on Tuesday at 5.30 p.m.
The gathering will take place in the council chambers of the municipal building located at 450 South Main Street.
The agenda begins with standard organizational business, including a roll call to confirm a quorum and verify proper public notice.
Members will then conduct an election of officials or officers, excuse me, review and approve the meeting minutes from March 25th, 2026 and receive the latest treasurer's report detailing the authority's financial status.
Substantive discussion and possible action items on the open agenda focus on key community development matters.
The board is slated to consider a proposal submitted by Bedward Properties.
Later in the proceedings, the board plans to convene into closed session pursuant to Wisconsin's statue section 19.851E.
This closed session will allow members to deliberate and negotiate competitive or bargaining strategy concerning the investment of public funds and the potential sale of the RDA property at 300 West Union Street and 300 North Orange Street.
Following those discussions, the authority will reconvene into open session pursuant to Wisconsin statute section 19.852 to consider the and take any appropriate public action on the matters deliberated during the closed portion of the meeting.
In a heartfelt demonstration of community support, local resident Lori Bradley has donated $1,152 worth of stuffed toys to the Richland Hospital Emergency Department to provide comfort and reassurance to patients.
Bradley, who lives just north of Ithaca, purchased the toys from Richland Center Business, the Robin's Nest, to help bring smiles to patients during difficult moments.
Bradley's lifelong commitment to children guided her generous decision.
Having worked as a four-year-old kindergarten assistant in Weston, Ithaca, and Richland Center, Lincoln, she knew firsthand who would benefit most from the comforting toys.
When the owners of the Robbis Desk, Diana, Janet, and Lindsay Swenson sought to downsize their inventory, Bradley purchased all of their stuffed animals, surprising the owners with her immediate and clear vision for their use.
The stuffed toys will be distributed to children and other patients navigating stressful or uncertain hospital visits.
Hospital leaders express deep appreciation for the contribution emphasizing the powerful community spirit it represents.
Linda Tyler-Doudna, RN, and Director of the Emergency Department, praise Bradley's generosity, noting that such comforting compassion are vital to creating a reassuring and supportive care experience for patients and families alike.
The 170th annual Iowa County Fair concludes today at the Iowa County Fairgrounds and Mineral Point.
There is an antique tractor display from now until 7.
At 12.30, Tony Rocker will be live as Elvis.
Harness racing and crowning of the 2027 Ferris of the Fair will be at 1.
There will also be animal shows and exhibits, midway rides and food.
Admissions $10 for adults, $5 for youth ages 8 to 12, and ages 7 under are admitted free.
You can find more information in a full schedule at iowacountyfair.com The Richland County Executive and Finance Standing Committee is scheduled to meet on Thursday at 5 p.m.
The meeting will take place in the Richland County Boardroom at the County Courthouse and virtual attendance options will be available.
A primary focus of the meeting will be closed session to deliberate on the county's stance regarding current and potential contracts for emergency medical services
to specific municipalities.
Following the closed session, the committee may take action on any items discussed.
Members of the public are welcome to attend and provide comments during the designated public comment period.
As the 2026 hunting season approaches, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is encouraging hunters across the state to take full advantage of Wisconsin's vast network of public lands.
Spanning over 6 million acres, these public grounds over extraordinary opportunities for both seasoned outdoorsmen and newcomers alike.
Beyond state-owned properties, hunters will also have to have access to roughly 8,000 acres of voluntary or voluntary public access lands.
Private properties open to public use through landowner agreements funded by the U.S.
Department of Agriculture.
To help hunters navigate these expansive grounds, the DNR provides dynamic, mobile-friendly online mapping tools designed for preliminary research.
The public access lands tool offers comprehensive visual data on DNR properties along with nearly all federal and county owned lands while also marking open managed forest law and forest crop law areas.
For bird hunters, the fields and forest lands interactive game bird hunting tool helps pinpoint young aspen and older habitats, prime woodcock and roughed grouse hunting spots, pheasant stocked public grounds and public access dove fields.
Additionally, the Voluntary Public Access and Habitat Incentive Program interactive maps display private lands where financial incentives encourage year-round public hunting access.
While digital tools provide a great starting point, the DNR emphasizes the online mapping is only the first step.
In-person scouting is essential to identify active wildlife sites and assesses local habitat conditions.
Hunters should always scout multiple locations prior to opening day to ensure they have reliable backup options in case of sudden weather shifts or higher hunter pressure in a given area.
Above all, adherence to foundational firearm safety rules remains paramount.
Hunters should strictly follow the Tab K principles at all times.
And that is to treat every firearm as if it was loaded.
Always point the muzzle in a safe direction.
Be certain of your target.
What is before it?
and what lies beyond it.
And keep your finger outside the trigger guard until you're ready to shoot.
For full regulations, season dates, and hunting hours, hunters can visit the DNR's Hunter Resources webpage to prepare for a safe and successful 2026 season.
In a major policy push aimed at revitalizing the domestic cattle industry, President Trump has signed two key executive orders while U.S.
Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins announced a series of complementary measures designed to protect livestock and enhance market transparency.
Assessing or addressing what officials describe as the smallest national herd since the 1950s
The coordinated effort seeks to reverse declining cattle numbers by offering financial and regulatory relief to producers across the country.
Central to the new executive actions is a focus strategy to mitigate livestock loss from natural predators.
Under the first order, the Department of Interior is tasked with reviewing to protect status of gray wolves and Mexican wolves under the Endangered Species Act to evaluate delisting or downlisting.
Furthermore, both the Interior and Agricultural Departments are updating comprehensive guidelines for ranchers affected by predation and while streamlining authorizations for lethal removal when necessary.
To bolster consumer transparency and market fairness, the administration is reexamining a country of origin labeling for beef products in consultation with the United States Trade Representative.
These measures build upon the voluntary product of USDA designation to ensure clear identification of domestic beef.
Simultaneously, federal authorities are targeting market concentration among major meat packers by directing the USDA to intensify enforcement under the Packers and Stockyards Act and work closely with the Department of Justice on an investigation oversight.
Beyond regulatory oversight, the USDA Rancher's first initiative and the 2025 beef plan introduced expanded land conservation and technological updates.
Nearly one million new acres will be enrolled in the Grasslands Conservation Reserve Program and the Agricultural Marketing Service is scaling its remote grading and instrument-enhanced grading programs to lower processing overhead.
Paired with state-level processing expansions, new loan guarantees, and federal purchasing preferences for local beef, these policies mark a comprehensive effort to modernize and safeguard the future of American ranching.
The Vernon County Community Development Department has announced the return of the Vernon County Awards for 2026.
This year's banquet is scheduled for Wednesday, November 4 at Willow & Oak at Hillsborough Brewing Company in Hillsborough.
Now entering its fourth year, the event serves to celebrate the local individuals, businesses, and organizations that contribute to making Vernon County a thriving community.
The theme for the 2026 banquet is stronger together, adapting, innovating, thriving, and emphasizes the resilience and collaborative spirit of the region's residents and businesses in overcoming challenges and embracing new ideas.
A new highlight for this year's festivities is an optional brewery tour of Hillsborough Brewing Company, Vernon County's only brewery.
Starting at 4pm, the tour will provide guests with a look at the history of the company and the historic building it calls home before the dinner and awards ceremony begin.
Nominations for the awards are officially open from September 1st through September 30th.
Categories include honors for businesses, events, nonprofits, young leaders, and health and safety services.
Community members interested in submitting nominations or seeking more information can access the full list of categories and forms on the Vernon County website.
The national average price of diesel has reached an unprecedented all-time high of 585 per gallon, surpassing the previous record of 582 per gallon set in June of 2022.
According to recent data from Fuel Savings Platform Gas Buddy, this surge represents a sharp increase of over $2 per gallon compared to September of last year when diesel was priced at $370.
While gasoline price fluctuations often capture the public's attention, the escalating cost of diesel poses a more profound and far-reaching threat to the broader economy and consumer inflation.
Diesel serves as the primary energy source power in critical sectors of the U.S.
infrastructure, including freight transportation, railway networks, agricultural machinery, and heavy construction equipment.
As diesel prices climb, the cost of transporting goods rises in tandem.
These elevated supply chain expenses are ultimately passed down to consumers, leading to higher prices for everyday necessities, such as groceries, household products, and delivery services.
Patrick Dahan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy, noted that diesel is the fuel that moves the economy.
And when its prices reach record levels, the financial repercussions are felt far beyond the transportation sector.
To depart the dramatic increase in fuel, cost has been driven by a combination of global energy market factors, including geopolitical tensions, persistent supply chain disruptions, elevated oil prices, tight global inventories, and reduced oil refining capacity abroad.
In response to this volatility, an increased number of drivers and businesses are turning to digital tools to manage their budgets.
GasBuddy, which saw over 515,000 unique user reports fuel prices in August of this year alone, recommends that drivers actively compare local fuel prices to identify savings.
The Federal Emergency Management Agency or
FEMA has announced the approval of nearly $36 million in post-disaster funding and hazard mitigation grants from Michigan, Ohio, and Wisconsin.
These programs aim to empower state, local, tribal, and territorial governments to recover from recent disasters, rebuild critical infrastructure, and improve long-term community resilience against future events.
The largest portion of approved funding consists of 29 million awarded under FEMA's public assistance program across three states.
This funding is distributed to support repairs to critical infrastructure, restoration of public buildings, road repairs, and reimbursement for cost incurred to protect public health and safety.
Specific allocations include 12 million to the
Altman Health Foundation in Ohio for emergency protective measures and medical care during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, the Michigan Department of Technology Management and Budget is awarded $2.7 million for debris removal and communication tower repairs following a 2025 winter storm, while the Michigan State Patrol Homeland Security and Emergency Management Division receives $1.3 million for state management cost and severe storms and flooding in April of 2026.
Wisconsin Emergency Management also receives 800,000 to cover administration costs following 2025 storms and flooding in the Milwaukee metro area.
Additionally, $5.7 million is awarded through the Hazard Mitigation Grant Program to prevent or reduce future disaster-related damage in Michigan and Wisconsin.
Key projects include more than $4.9 million for stormwater and sewer facility improvements in Oakland County, Michigan, which will benefit over 185,000 residents and over $139,000 for a flood study evaluating mitigation options for a major road in Wrightstown, Wisconsin.
Furthermore, FEMA has approved over 854,000 under the Building Resilient Infrastructure and Communities Program to fund embankment stabilization along Miami Street and Toledo, Ohio, protecting local homes and vital roadways during heavy rains.
All projects align with FEMA's principles of being state-led and federally supported to ensure robust disaster recovery and proactive threat mitigation.
More information can be found at FEMA.gov.
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection is accepting applications for its Food Security and Wisconsin Grant Program.
Program Manager April Yanser says the funding helps stock pantry shelves with fresh Wisconsin-grown fruits, vegetables, dairy products, proteins, and other locally produced foods.
Yanser says the program not only helps food assistance organizations meet rising demand, but also creates partnership between local farmers and food pantries.
State officials say the grant supports access to healthy, culture,
relevant foods.
More information is available on the DatCap website.
More people are in favor of labor unions this Labor Day.
Economic Policy Institute Deputy Director Jennifer Sherer told Iowa PBS a recent Gallup poll found that approval rate for organized labor is at 71%.
The future of public unions in Wisconsin is still in the air as a legal fight over Wisconsin Act 10, which banned collective bargaining for most public unions, makes its way through the courts.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reminds anglers that the 2026 hook and line season for Lake Sturgeon is now open on certain waters through September 30th.
All anglers looking to harvest a Lake Sturgeon must have their general 2026 fishing license and a valid hook and line.
Sturgeon Tag.
License and tags may be purchased online through GoWild or from a licensed vendor.
Anglers are reminded that only one Sturgeon with a minimum length measurement of 60 inches may be harvested during the season.
Tags must be immediately validated upon harvesting with all harvested Sturgeon registered at a designated registration station.
A hook and line sturgeon tag is not required if an angler plans to release the sturgeon they catch in an open season.
The DNR urges anglers to practice responsible catch and release when releasing any fish they do not wish to keep.
Please note that it is illegal to fish by snagging, foul hooking, and attempting to hook fish other than in the mouth.
Sturgeon may only be targeted in waters with an open hook and line season even if anglers intend to release their catch.
If a tag sturgeon is caught, please submit the catch information to the county's fisheries biologist to help the DNR and future sturgeon management practices.
Anglers can find a list of other open sturgeon fishing waters and additional information on the DNR's inland hook and line sturgeon webpage.
Recent enforcement activities by the Wisconsin Office of Commissioner of Insurance underscores a rigorous commitment to professional accountability, with over 25 different agents facing disciplinary measures in the latest reporting period.
The most prevalent catalyst for severe action remains the failure to meet state fiscal obligations as eight intermediaries saw their licenses immediately revoked due to delinquent Wisconsin taxes.
This firm's stance on financial integrity ensures that only those in good standing with the state are permitted to continue serving the public.
Beyond tax issues, professional negligence such as failing to respond to OCI inquiries or neglecting to pay previous financial forfeitures,
frequently led to additional license surrenders and revocations highlighting a low tolerance for ignoring regulatory oversight.
Misconduct with consumer interactions also represents a significant portion of recent enforcement actions.
Multiple agents were penalized for unauthorized enrollments of consumers into health insurance plans and for making misrepresentations during the sales process.
These deceptive practices often involve misleading residents about the nature of their coverage, recommending unsuitable plans, or using another agent's credentials to bypass appointment requirements.
In more extreme cases, agents were found selling unauthorized insurance products or committing outright fraud by presenting false claims.
Such patterns of this honesty not only trigger substantial financial forfeitures, but also serve as a primary reason for the denial of new license applications and the permanent removal of established intermediaries from the market.
Furthermore, OCI's disciplinary records reveal a critical focus on the disclosure of professional history.
Several individuals face penalties of licensed denials for failing to timely report administrative actions taken by other states or for providing incomplete information regarding criminal histories on their applications.
These omissions coupled with instances of failing to comply with court-ordered child support are viewed as reflections on an applicant's character and fitness for the industry.
By systematically addressing these common misconduct patterns, ranging from tax-linked delinquency to unauthorized enrollments to nondisclosure and misrepresentation, the OCI maintains a transparent and reliable environment for Wisconsin's insurance consumers.
Today's winners in St.
Anthony's auction calendar raffle are $250 winners and they are Patty Braun with Ticket 629 and Bunn-Daitelhoff with Ticket number 88.