WRCO Afternoon Obituaries

100.9 and 107.7 country and community in Richland Center.

Here's your Daily News Roundup.

For Civic Media News, I'm Connie Thelman.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services confirmed one more case of measles in Wisconsin.

This case is in Chippewa County.

Since August, confirmed measles cases have been reported in Grant, Iowa, Lafayette, Marathon, Vernon, and now Chippewa counties.

That brings the state's total to 171 cases.

All but one of those are in people who are not vaccinated against the disease.

Health experts say measles is a highly contagious disease that can spread from person to person through the air and can stay in the air for two hours after an infected person coughs or sneezes.

As hunters prepare to hit the woods this fall, the DNR is asking for help.

Civic media's James Kelly has more on what hunters can do to help slow the spread of a fatal deer disease.

As the state's hunting seasons get underway, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is reminding hunters to test their harvested deer for chronic wasting disease.

According to a press release, the agency is reminding hunters that testing for chronic wasting disease is a critical tool for tracking disease levels and spread across the state.

Hunters can conduct the test themselves at a self-service kiosk available 24-7 or with an at-home lymph node extraction kit.

They can also make an in-person appointment with DNR staff or cooperating partners like meat processors.

I'm James Kelly for Civic Media News.

Archery and crossbow hunting season is already open across our state.

The gun deer hunt starts November 21st.

Today marks the middle of Wisconsin's first PFAS Awareness Week.

Governor Tony Evers made the declaration after signing a bipartisan plan to release $125 million from the PFAS Trust Fund earlier this year to help communities test and treat contaminated water.

The focus this week is on clean, safe drinking water across the state.

Wisconsin has another 10 million from a Taiko PFAS settlement set to go toward clean water projects, new wells, and the installation of new treatment systems.

PFAS Awareness Week runs through Friday.

Opposition is building across southern Wisconsin over a proposed 190-mile high-voltage transmission line cutting through nine counties.

U.S.

Representative Tom Tiffany reaffirmed his stance against the project during a town hall meeting in Baraboo last week, arguing the 965-kilovolt power line threatens local farmland and private property rights.

His stance mirrors concerns raised by opponent David Crowley, who also recently spoke out against the project in favor of less

disruptive energy alternatives.

The event came shortly after Tiffany's plane was forced to make an emergency landing near Wasaw, though the congressman says the mechanical incident hasn't slowed down his schedule.

With summer now in the rearview mirror, it's a good time to see how Wisconsin's tourism dollars are stacking up this year.

Civic media's James Kelly gives us a look at the northwestern part of our state.

Eau Claire County officials are highlighting another significant year for tourism in the Chippewa Valley.

According to officials from Visit Eau Claire, the record $480 million of economic impact generated by tourism in 2025 continued into the summer of 2026 and shows no sign of slowing down for fall activities in the region.

The success also comes as Visit Eau Claire, local municipalities and community partners continue to develop their destination master plan, a 10-year roadmap for the tourism industry.

Visit Eau Claire is also planning to host a number of public input sessions on that destination master plan over the coming weeks.

I'm James Kelly for Civic Media News.

Those sessions will be free and open to the public.

Organizers say the input gathered will be used to finalize a draft plan by March of 2027.

A Chippewa Falls High School graduate will be among the cast as Saturday Night Live returns for its 52nd season this weekend.

Grace Ryder, class of 2019, is among the additions to this year's SNL cast.

Nickstar Jalen Brunson hosts SNL this Saturday.

And that's your state news update.

I'm Connie Feldman for Civic Media News.

Brewers and the Phillies tonight.

Hi, I'm Mike Clemens with Sports Baseball.

Game two of the Brewers series in Philadelphia.

Last night, the crew losing to the Phillies six to four.

Their starting pitcher, veteran Zach Wheeler, set a Phillies franchise record, striking out the Brewers first seven batters.

Manager

Pat Murphy.

The story of the game was, you know, Wheeler was dominant.

You know, Wheeler was dominant and really did a great job.

He's really terrific pitcher.

Their bullpen did a great job.

So

credit goes to them.

NFL, the Packers host the Falcons tomorrow night at 7 15.

Jordan Love asked if he'd spoken to Jaden Reed, who spent the night in a New Jersey hospital with a neck injury in the game against the Jets.

You haven't got to talk to him too much.

I think he's back in town.

So, you know, we'll see when he gets back in the building.

What all is going on is worse than what the injury is.

That's quarterback Jordan Love.

with sports on Mike Clemens.

It is going to be a beautiful day today, mostly sunny with a high right around 65 this afternoon.

Tonight, partly cloudy, we're going to drop into the mid 40s to upper 40s for a low tomorrow.

Partly cloudy with a high right around 66.

I'm meteorologist Sean Cable.

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

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

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

Today is September 23rd.

These are today's vital statistics.

Marion Buzz Beatty, 94 of Richland Center, died at the Richland Hospital Thursday after a fall at his home.

A public celebration of life will be held at the Richland Center American Legion on Thursday from 3 p.m.

until 7 p.m.

Everyone is encouraged to wear their favorite team apparel.

A private family burial will precede the celebration.

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

Marianne Buzz Beatty, 94 of Richland Center.

Jane Marie Sharp

Pythron, 77 of Reedsburg, died at home Saturday, September 12th.

An open house celebration of life will be held at their home Saturday, September 26th.

Those who wish to express sympathy, share stories, and celebrate Jane's life can come anytime between 11 a.m.

to 6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please share a memory of Jane.

Grassy Funeral Service in Reedsburg is serving the family.

Jane Marie Sharp.

Python 77 of Reedsburg.

David.

Daniel Higbee, 65 of Richland Center, died Wednesday, September 16.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 30 at 3 p.m.

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

Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 30 from 1 p.m.

until the time of service at 3 p.m.

at the Pratt Memorial Chapel.

David Daniel Higbee, 65 of Richland Center.

Christine M. B.

58 of Richland Center died at home Friday, September 18th.

A celebration of Christine's life will be held Saturday, November 7th from 12.30 p.m.

until 3.30 p.m.

at the Richland Center Community Center.

The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements.

Christine M. B.

58 of Richland Center.

Bradley Sandmire, 83 of Milwaukee, formerly of Richland Center, died Saturday, September 5th.

Graveside services will be held today at 12 noon at the Ash Ridge Cemetery.

The Pratt Funeral Incrimination Service is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Bradley Sandmire, 83 of Milwaukee, formerly of Richland Center.

Todd.

A. Deckert, 59 of Richland Center, died Wednesday, September 16 at Schmidt Woodland Hills following a battle with a rare disease.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

The Stafford Funeral Home in Richland Center is seeing the family with the arrangements.

Todd A. Deckert, 59 of Richland Center.

Good evening, everyone.

For WRCO News, I'm Todd Copernall.

The Richland Center Planning Commission is about to meet at 5.30 in the City Municipal Building in Richland Center.

Members of the public and interested parties are also invited to join virtually through a Microsoft Teams link provided on the official city agenda.

A central focus of the evening's proceedings will be a presentation regarding building inspector services delivered by Tracy Johnson.

Additionally, commissioners will review and approve the meeting minutes from their previous session held August 26.

The agenda highlights major discussion and action items concerning local property divisions.

Public hearings and land division applications by certified survey map are slated for both Richland County at the county campus and Shriver Foods Incorporated.

These applications involve detailed staff reports and boundary maps designed to guide the commission's evaluation of the proposed land split.

To wrap up the session, the Planning Commission will review ongoing work related to the City's comprehensive plan and receive the Zoning Administrator's monthly report detailing recent zoning activities and administrative developments across the community.

The Richland Center General Government Committee met Tuesday to consider several municipal initiatives, property encumbrances, emergency medical service funding, and city legal representation.

During administrative updates, City Administrator Ashley Oliphant noted that early in-person voting for the November 3rd election will run from October 20th through October 30th.

Updates were also provided regarding public safety and cemetery bequests.

Ongoing economic development projects including the AD German Warehouse and Story Field and collaborative UW Campus redevelopment planning with Richland County.

Financial reviews through August 31 showed performance consistent with expectations.

In key business, the committee addressed title search results for 929 West Seminary Street, directing the city attorney to resolve the city's outstanding mortgage so the property can be transferred to Lydia's house, while retaining options to pursue recovery against Southwest CAP.

On the topic of emergency medical services, members voted to notify Richland County that the city expects coverage under Resolution 26-22 without committing to proposed population-based payments, pending further clarification and written contract terms.

Additionally, the Committee referred a Connect Communities grant application and municipal accounting request to the Common Council and voted to recommend approval of a legal services agreement with Murphy Desmond SC, subject to independent review.

The 95th Viola Horse and Colt show will be held Friday and Saturday in Viola.

Friday evening will feature a truck and tractor pole and a barnyard bash at 6 o'clock.

Midway Carnival wristband night will be from 6 o'clock until 10 o'clock and high mileage will perform after the truck and tractor pole.

Saturday's events include an arts and crafts fair starting at 8 o'clock, a junior livestock show at 9 o'clock, a horse pull at 9.30, at 10 o'clock will be a horse show and an antique tractor pull.

The Midway Carnival will open at noon, a parade begins at 1 o'clock.

At three o'clock will be a truck and tractor pole, a country western dance with Monty Berger and the country gold band starts at six o'clock and a raffle drawing will be held at ten o'clock.

You can find more information at the Viola Horse and Colt Show website and on their Facebook events page.

Homecoming is being celebrated this week in the River Valley School District.

The theme of this year's homecoming is, Once Upon a Homecoming.

Students, staff, alumni, and even community members are taking part in various school spirit activities that are annual traditions.

Many of the festivities will be held on Friday.

Before those festivities get underway, the homecoming king and queen will be crowned during the homecoming pep rally tomorrow night, which follows the

conclusion of the varsity volleyball and boys varsity soccer matches between River Valley and Prairie Dachine.

On Friday morning the school fair will open at 8 o'clock with the gymnasium exhibits in the River Valley Intermediate School Gymnasium and various livestock exhibits showing behind the intermediate school.

The livestock auction will start at noon near the school fair Pavilion.

The homecoming parade will step off at 3 o'clock in downtown Spring Green.

In the evening, the River Valley Blackhawks will host the Platteville Hillmen in the annual homecoming football game.

Kickoff is scheduled for 7 o'clock.

The week-long festivities will wrap up Saturday with the homecoming dance.

More information about this year's River Valley Homecoming can be found online at highschool.rvschools.org.

David Grant of Civic Media reports on Tuesday, September 22nd at approximately 9 p.m., the Baraboo Police Department responded to an armed robbery at a business located in the 500 block of South Boulevard.

The suspect entered the business, remained inside for a short period of time, approached the counter, displayed a knife and demanded money from the owner.

The suspect obtained an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene on a bicycle that is described as dark blue or purple in color with yellow foot pedals.

The suspect is described as a white male, round face and black hair.

He was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and black jogging pants.

The suspect appeared to have recent facial injuries and blood on his knuckles, consistent with injuries potentially sustained during a physical altercation prior to the robbery.

Anyone who has had contact with an individual matching this description or who may have information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Baraboo Police Department at 608-355.

2720.

The Baraboo Police Department does not believe there is any ongoing danger to the community.

The investigation remains active and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

A tribute band will be paying homage to the iconic Johnny Cash when they perform in Richland Center this weekend.

Church of Cash will be taking the stage at the Richland Center City Auditorium Friday at 7 o'clock.

The band will be celebrating the sound and soul of the legendary Man in Black with their performance.

Jay Ernst is a member of the group.

Johnny Cash has written 1,500 songs, so that's a lot of songs for me to learn.

With that being said,

We know over 200 songs right now, which is still a lot of songs.

That's 17 hours straight.

Johnny Cash means it's way too long.

Of course, there's the standard songs that you pretty much have to play every night.

They got your Folsom Prison, your Ring of Fire, Ghost Riders, Jackson, Sunday Morning coming down one piece at a time, Boy Names, you know, the big, big hits.

But we also pepper in some of the lesser known songs.

Some songs that Johnny Cash covered from other artists that maybe people didn't realize that Johnny Cash did.

But our main point is that we're celebrating Johnny Cash music together and that we make it a great time.

It's not a history time.

This is time for us all to come together and celebrate Johnny Cash's music.

Those who attend Friday's show will be familiar with many of Johnny's classic songs, no matter what age you are.

I'll see some seven-year-old kid singing every single lyric with me.

and on the same time I'll meet somebody's grandma and they're saying she's celebrating her 97th birthday today and all in everywhere in between people are fans of Johnny Cash because of the message that he had and the lyrics that stays with you for your whole life that you could pretty much sing today.

Church of Cash's performance will be fun and entertaining for everyone who attends the show.

We put a lot of time and effort to make these songs sound good, and not only that, but we want to make this show entertaining.

Some folks might be thinking, well, I only know two Johnny Cash songs.

Well, realistically, when you come and hear it, you're going to know 10, and I'm going to play 20.

And the rest of those 10 that you don't know, I'm going to make so dang fun that you're going to walk away saying, hey, that was a great concert.

We've been doing this forever.

and we are considered the best Johnny Cash tribute show in the world.

So I'm happy to bring it to you and we can celebrate his music together.

All ages are welcome to attend.

Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased on the City Auditorium website at the City Auditorium.

Enjoy Church of Cash this Friday at 7 o'clock at the Richland Center City Auditorium.

More information can also be found at the City Auditorium website or by contacting Mick Cosgrove at a mirror prize.

Ed and Linda Chitwood have announced the Milk Into Cheese program was a big hit again this year, with donations purchasing 10,000 pounds of milk, which will produce 1,000 pounds of cheese for distribution to food pantries.

The Milk Into Cheese Hayride will take place October 11th at 1 p.m.

at 1-6-0-2-5, Eddie's Lane,

in Blue River.

If you plan to attend, please call the Chip Woods at 608-537-2340 to let them know you're coming.

Donations are always accepted at the Eddie's Lane address.

Thank you to everyone for your generous donations.

U.S.

Senator Tammy Baldwin introduced new legislation aimed at protecting voters from potential intimidation or interference by federal law enforcement and military personnel at election polling places.

The bill, titled the Safe Access to the Polls Act, would explicitly prohibit federal funds from being used to deploy personnel from U.S.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S.

Customs and Border Protection, or the National

guard.

to polling sites.

The legislation comes in response to concerns overstatements from administration officials refusing to rule out sending armed federal agents or troops to voting locations.

Under the provisions of the proposed law, federal agents and troops would be barred from operating within a quarter mile of any polling place, establishing checkpoints along routes used by voters or interfering in any manner with an eligible

voters access to their assigned voting location.

Senator Baldwin stated that voters must be able to safely cast their ballots without obstruction or fear of intimidation.

She argued that placing armed federal agents at community polling sites such as schools, libraries and places of worship serves to deter eligible citizens from participating in elections.

The introduction of the bill reflects growing efforts to safeguard voter access and protect local election processes ahead of the upcoming 2026 elections.

Vital statistics right after this.

It's the Midweek Roundup.

Wednesday's Roundup brought to you by Richland Hospital, Cardinal Glass AG, Badgerland Flooring, and by Julie Kieran State Farm.

Today, it's Henko or Facto.

Hank's got the questions, and Phil, he's got the final say on whether it's fact or something cooked up over a cup of bad coffee.

Confidence?

Absolutely.

Accuracy?

That's where things get adventurous.

Play along and see if you can out-guess Phil, because the truth is out there, and Phil is doing his best to find it.

Wednesday's roundup, where factos, Hankos, and Phil, all collide.

It's time for the roundup

Hey, what's going on?

How you doing, young man?

Not too bad, buddy.

Living the dream, my man.

Living the dream.

Do

you get new glasses every day or something?

No, I

just buy one, get one free.

Can't really see out of them because it's the free one.

Yeah, exactly.

Oh, I suppose.

You know what I mean?

Yeah, that's a tough break.

When you're buying those magnifying glasses.

What, what do you, what is it?

Uh, what, what brand is it?

Or what is it?

I don't

know.

It's, uh, I want to get one free from the dollar store.

Is it?

Okay.

Uh-huh.

I just took the free one.

Only the best.

They look like magnifying glasses.

Yeah, they kind of do.

Yeah.

Well, you, I don't know that I want to be batting against you if you're pitching anyway, Joanne.

Um, I mean, Phil,

sorry, sorry,

sorry.

Your question, did you do anything fun last night?

Was it volleyball?

Yep, five games, five

game matchup.

I bring out the five games.

You do.

I

was listening to it and I'm going, this is going five, baby.

This is going fun.

And actually kind of got done kind of early though.

Well, they started early.

Oh, did they?

Yeah, JV started at 530.

I

wish they would all do that.

Me too.

All

of them.

Because volleyball can go.

two and a half, three hours.

I mean, if you have a varsity match, it's real competitive.

I

wish basketball with all JVs would go 530.

I am pushing for that.

Me too.

I mean, because especially now, with some of these schools that travel an hour and a half to go play a conference game, I mean, let's just say, say Verrocco, you know, they're going to join the, is it the swall, I think?

Yes.

Next year.

They'll have to travel to Cuba City?

No.

Are they?

Well, I thought it was the Southwest.

Or maybe

it was the Southwest.

Yeah.

They wouldn't be in Cuba City,

but they, you know, Lancaster.

Yeah.

I mean, that's a jaunt,

right?

Yeah.

They, they don't want, and I understand they don't want to be getting out of school early to go to games and things like that.

But JV, the other, the other issue is gym space because they have to get the practices in, you know, and they don't want to cut practice off every night early.

So I'm just, I'm just saying those are, those are the factors.

So, you know,

530 game time would be awesome for it because it just helps everybody.

Right.

Especially the old officials.

Poor old officials.

Poor old radio announcers.

I know.

I know.

But back in the day, when everybody farmed, it was different because we had, and when I played, our games normally didn't start to late o'clock.

Really?

because it would allow people to get the chores done and then still get to the games.

And, but that's not so much the fact anymore.

And people milk at different times too.

They

used to, so.

Some people milk all the time.

Absolutely.

Just like you and I, we're milk on the clock

here all the time.

Absolutely.

Do you talk in your sleep, Phillip, your question of the day?

I don't know.

You'd have to

ask Junie.

But

I, you know,

people say I snore.

I've never

heard myself.

I have never heard me snore.

Me.

No, but with my mask, I don't snore.

It's a myth.

You could take that off now, please.

The mask.

Yeah, right.

Sorry.

Sorry.

All night

long.

All night long.

You might be from Arkansas.

Phillip, if your engagement photos are selfies.

Well, yeah,

could

be.

Could be.

All right, we're gonna play you're gonna get your five questions, but this is pick your poison questions.

Pick your poison.

Yes mosquitoes or flies.

Oh flies.

Okay, especially with the West Nile virus thing going on there.

So I'll take the flies.

Snowstorm or thunderstorm?

I would say thunderstorm.

I don't like snowstorms.

Mm-hmm.

Can't drive the vibe very well through them.

Flat tire or dead battery?

Well, that's a good question.

Dead batter eggs.

I can probably find a way to jump it.

You know, mine's flat tire flat tire.

Yeah.

Yeah.

I'm an electric personality.

I should be able to get it going somehow.

Slow driver or tailgater?

What do you mean?

I'm the slow driver.

No, you follow.

Do you follow a slow driver or someone tailgating you?

I guess I don't, which one do you prefer the, the,

If behind a slow driver or someone tailgate

Oh, I don't like somebody tailgate.

I

don't especially this what this is what gets me when the roads are slippery.

Yes, you know, I'm

I mean, I'm not a slow driver.

I don't think anyway, but I'm going to be a little more cautious when it's just, and somebody comes behind me with a big four wheel drive vehicle and, you know, right on the, you know, that doesn't make it real safe.

Michael

just throw a tow rope out.

Hey, get around me.

I'll hook

on.

Uh, stepping in water with socks on or getting popcorn.

We already did that one.

Colonel stuck in your teeth.

You went with the, uh, Colonel on your teeth.

I

think so.

No, I don't remember if I did or not that, uh, that bugs me.

All right, that happens.

Be honest questions.

Here we go.

Have you ever eaten something after dropping it on the floor?

Oh, sure.

Yeah.

Five second rule.

Have you ever blamed someone else for passing gas?

Maybe back in school.

Probably did.

That was a thing to do, you know.

I didn't expect that question.

Do you snoop in someone's refrigerator?

No.

Would you snoop in mine?

I'd be scared.

Although you there's a lot of transparency when you do the hillbill 100 cooking on Friday.

You don't need to look in there.

They don't really can see what's in there Have you ever worn the same pants three days in a row?

No, I have maybe two It's usually like I'll get home on Friday and put my work like my outside clothes on I'll wear them through Sunday.

Oh Yeah, I don't know if it'd be three days in a row.

I'd probably

I'd alternate it, you know, I'd wad them up and maybe wear them the day after the next day.

Oh, yeah.

Make sure they're good and moldy.

Exactly.

Yeah.

Have you ever waved back at someone who wasn't waving at you?

Oh, always.

I do too.

All the time.

Oh boy.

All right.

Well, today is Hanked On Phonics, Phillip.

Hanked On Phonics.

What

word do you

have

today?

Oh my goodness.

Um, let me see here.

There you go.

Oh, that's an easy one.

Rendezvous.

Rendezvous.

He got it right.

Not

Rendezvous.

Rendezvous.

So there was a young lady that I worked with and pretty soon when I was when I was in prison and she was she's the head of the of the kitchen.

She's an administrator of the kitchen over there now.

Her name is Julie Warrington and she was always in Rendezvous.

She'd sell smoked

turkey legs at the parish in rendezvous.

Oh, because I used to say rendezvous or something like that.

Oh,

sure.

And she all, and she, it's rendezvous, rendezvous.

And she worked on me for about five years.

And you

finally got it.

Finally got it.

So you were, and it paid off.

Thanks, Ms.

Warrington.

Someday on the radio, you might have to say it and you'd thank you, Ms.

Warrington.

You passed flying colors.

Yes.

Yes.

Yes.

Rendezvous.

Rendezvous.

Well, anyway, you know, as we get older, Phillip,

We look forward to things that we don't use to like you know what like our driver's size is excited are a new phone something like that, but as we get older We look for we look at other things differently right all right for instance We ordered a new rug for the station.

Oh, yes.

Did you see me totin?

Oh, you're all happy

when that came in and Todd comes out

and goes, my goodness, he goes, it's just like getting a shiny new car.

I said, it's a rug.

It's a new rug.

So, and it wasn't for your head.

No, no.

No, thanks a lot.

Yeah.

Oh, it's a new rug for the front door, which we needed.

Right.

We needed one.

It was

getting a little

tacky and I was so excited.

And so was everybody else.

I was like, oh, that looks so good.

A

new rug.

A new rug.

So as we get older, we look at things different and

and the rewards that we get.

So we're going to say two things that we get excited about that we didn't use to.

You can go first.

All right, I would say hearing that the appointment is canceled.

I don't have to do that today.

Getting the fitted sheets on correctly the first time.

Oh, that's a good

one.

Yeah, that'd be a reason to celebrate.

Yup.

Yup.

Uh-huh.

A refund check.

He does $4 and 82 cents.

Woo!

It's not a bill.

Getting the lawn mowed before it rains.

There you go.

Yes.

Absolutely.

So it's kind of like something we're going to throw in on Wednesdays, Phillip.

Just a, he's going to take a turn.

You never know.

You

never.

Yeah, never.

No,

as you know, I, I like to frequent thrift stores.

Yeah.

So I'm in a thrift store in Madison a few years ago and I'm walking in as this gentleman is walking out and he's got an iron, you know, like, you know, close with, and he's running out all joyfully.

He's like, I found an iron.

I found an iron.

He's like yelling and running.

You know

what?

Hey, enjoy your life.

Do you remember the time that you and I went up to, uh, which passed on rock, we went to look for.

record players I think you bought like a amplifier

oh yes yes

and I found that hairdryer from 1951 remember

how excited

I

am oh you

were really excited

I

still have

that and it

works it does still work

yes

yes so it's metal

yeah it was a little bit unnerving the first time you plugged it in yes yeah shocking yeah that cord of things you know you know how chords get a little bit

Brittle is a little.

Oh, yeah.

You might want to put in a quart

brittle.

Yeah, it's it's work.

It's work

brittle.

Yeah.

I love that saying.

Oh, yes.

The inventor of Vaseline at his spoonful every morning to hank over eight a spoonful every morning.

I think that might be true.

It is true.

Robert cheese bro claimed it made him feel youthful.

Edible petroleum, whatever floats your boat, whatever.

Absolutely.

They never had to take any, um, roughage.

like Bran or Metamucil.

Okay.

Yeah.

Yeah.

A moment was originally 90 seconds.

A moment.

A moment.

You know how you say, Hey, just a moment.

Just a moment.

I don't know about that one.

I think that might be Hanco.

Nope.

That's true.

Is it true?

Yeah.

Medieval scholars called one fourth of an hour a moment.

A moment.

Yeah.

What do you know?

One 40th of an hour.

I'm sorry.

That's precise procrastination.

Lobsters are born male and become female as the age.

Is that right?

I don't know.

I'm going to say that's fact.

No, that's a bunch of you got me swinging and missing here.

Actually, the reverse, they start female and may change to male.

Wow.

Cats don't have clavicle bones.

Um.

I'm going to say that's true.

No, it's a bunch of hankers.

Boy, you got me swinging and listening, man.

You're

like the Miz.

Yeah, they do.

They actually, the cat's famous stretch and agility.

Oh, boy.

Wombats laugh when they're tickled, Phillip.

Wombats.

And they poop cube shaped.

Oh, that's right.

We had that one too.

But

do

they laugh when they're tickled?

I don't know.

Do they laugh at their cube shape?

I

would laugh.

I

would like to see it.

I'm going to say that.

I'm going to say it's Hank.

It is a bunch of you're back on the

track

back on track.

A strawberry isn't a banana, a berry, but a banana is.

Yes, that's

true.

That is true.

I've had that on the quiz.

Yes, you

have.

Pigs are unable to look up in the sky.

Hmm.

That might be true.

It is true.

Oh, me being a pig pig whisper.

Yeah.

A pig whisper, you know, so that takes out the pigs can fly.

You can do that one pigs fly.

Your mom and dad ever said that to you.

Yes.

Yeah.

That'll be a day when pigs fly.

But the Muppet show, they had a segment

pigs in space.

Yes.

Right.

Yes.

Yes.

Oh, banging your head against a wall will burn.

150 calories an hour.

No,

it is true.

Is it

true?

Yes.

Wow.

But please, they are less painful and more productive than work hours.

Well, you got

me a few times.

I did.

I did.

It's about time because you've been nailing me on these

babies.

Oh boy.

All right.

But anyway, it's like a

ankle.

And your day off today, are you going to be in trouble when you get home?

Do you have a workload of work to do?

I have a few things to do around.

Do you have a moment of work?

Maybe just a moment, 90 seconds?

Is that what it is?

90 seconds.

Yeah, that's, that's more than some days I put in.

And James going, he finally gets it.

Yeah, he

does.

Have a great day.

My friend, everybody out there, be kind.

That's all Hank pray.

Good morning, everyone.

For WRCO News, I'm Todd Copernall.

46 sunny degrees in Richland Center right now.

Forecast says tonight, today's high will be 66 degrees in the news this morning.

The 95th Viola Horse and Cold Show will be held Friday and Saturday in Viola.

Friday evening will feature a truck and tractor pull and a barnyard bash at six o'clock.

Midway Carnival wristband night will be from six until 10 o'clock and high mileage will perform after the truck and tractor pull.

Saturday's events include an arts and crafts fair starting at eight o'clock, a junior livestock show at nine o'clock, a horse pull at 9.30, a 10 o'clock will be a horse show and an antique tractor pull.

The Midway Carnival will open at noon.

A parade will be at 1 o'clock, at 3 o'clock will be a truck and tractor pull, a country western dance with Monty Burger and the country gold band starts at 6 o'clock, and a raffle drawing will be held at 10 o'clock.

You can find more information at the Viola Horse and Colt Show website and on their Facebook events page.

Homecoming is being celebrated this week in the River Valley School District.

The theme of this year's homecoming is Once Upon a Homecoming.

Students, staff, alumni, and even community members are taking part in various school spirit activities that are annual traditions.

Many of the festivities will be held on Friday.

Before those festivities get underway, the Homecoming King and Queen will be crowned during the Homecoming Pep Rally tomorrow night, which follows the conclusion of the varsity volleyball

and Boy's Varsity soccer matches between River Valley and Prairie Duchenne.

On Friday morning, the school fair will open at 8 o'clock with the gymnasium exhibits in the River Valley Intermediate School Gymnasium and various livestock exhibits showing behind the intermediate school.

The livestock auction will start at noon near the school fair Pavilion.

The homecoming parade will step off at 3 o'clock in downtown Spring-Green.

In the evening, the River Valley Blackhawks will host the Platteville Hillmen in the annual homecoming football game.

Kickoff is set for 7 p.m.

The week-long festivities wrap up Saturday with the homecoming dance.

For more information about this year's River Valley homecoming, visit highschool.rvschools.org.

On Tuesday at 6 p.m., the Reedstown community will gather at the Reedstown Public Library to honor three remarkable individuals who helped shape the library's foundation and enduring legacy.

John Henry Syme, Helen Janie Fortney, and David G. Dregney.

The dedication ceremony will celebrate their dedication and lasting contributions to the town.

with the unveiling of a new flagpole in honor of all three community leaders.

The library's history is deeply intertwined with the efforts of those three individuals.

John Henry Seim founded the Reedstown Public Library by gathering and donating books, meticulously indexing the early collection and serving as the library's first board president.

Helen Janie Fortney, who passed away in 2023, spent her retirement years acquiring and cataloging books, relocating the growing collection to a permanent site and securing the building where the library operates today.

A commemorative bench in her honor has welcomed library visitors since her passing.

David G. Dregny, who passed away in 2025, along with Syme, served as Vice President of the Library Board and secured vital grants to sustain the library's operations and growth.

In memory of Simon Dregney, fruit-bearing trees have been planted on the library grounds.

The dedication event is free and open to the public.

It will feature a flag-raising ceremony accompanied by special visual effects provided by Joe Blow's fireworks and refreshments served by Kickapoo Corners.

The library extends its sincere gratitude to both local businesses for supporting this community celebration.

All community members are warmly invited to attend and commemorate the extraordinary contributions of these three individuals whose gifts continue to benefit Reedstown.

U.S.

Senator Tammy Baldwin introduced new legislation aimed at protecting voters from potential intimidation or interference by federal law enforcement and military personnel at election polling places.

The bill titled the Safe Access to the Polls Act would explicitly prohibit federal funds from being used to deploy personnel from U.S.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S.

Customs and Border Protection, or the National Guard.

to polling sites.

The legislation comes in response to concerns over statements from administration officials refusing to rule out sending armed federal agents or troops.

to voting locations.

Under the provisions of the proposed law, federal agents and troops would be barred from operating within a quarter mile of any polling place, establishing checkpoints along routes used by voters or interfering in any manner with an eligible voter's access to their assigned voting location.

Senator Baldwin stated that voters must be able to safely cast their balance without obstruction or fear of intimidation.

She argued that placing armed

federal agents at community polling sites such as schools, libraries, or places of worship serves to deter eligible citizens from participating in elections.

The introduction of the bill reflects growing efforts to safeguard voter access and protect local election processes ahead of the upcoming 2026 elections.

in a major effort to strengthen regional infrastructure and protect local communities against future natural disasters, the Federal Emergency Management Agency.

FEMA announced on September 19 that it will allocate more than $17 million in grant funding across six states.

The total distribution targets specific projects in Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, Minnesota, Ohio, and Wisconsin, designed to align with the Federal America First Resilience Strategy.

The multi-million dollar initiative emphasizes proactive risk reduction.

viewing local resilience measures as vital investment opportunities, while giving state authorities full ownership over their preparedness programs.

The largest share of the funding, exceeding $14.9 million, stems from FEMA's pre-disaster mitigation grant program, as directed by Congress under the fiscal year 2026, Homeland Security and Further Additional Continuing Appropriations Act.

These funds are slated for high priority disaster mitigation projects across the six states listed.

Complimenting the pre-disaster mitigation grants, FEMA is providing over $1.9 million through the Community Assistance Program, State Support Services,

element to enhance floodplain management practices, this competitive program supports state and territorial agencies as they assist local jurisdictions with flood reduction strategies aimed at saving lives and lowering long-term disaster recovery costs.

Additionally Illinois and Indiana will receive a portion of $123,000 under the National Earthquake Hazards Reduction Program to train public safety officials, execute specialized exercises, and build comprehensive preparedness frameworks for potential seismic events.

The Wisconsin Department of Health Services has officially confirmed the state's first West Nile virus activity of the year following positive tests from mosquitoes in Milwaukee County and a wild bird in Bayfield County.

Human cases have now been reported as well.

West Nile virus is primarily spread through the bite of an infected mosquito that has fed on infected birds.

It is not transmitted directly between people or from animals to humans, although many who contract the virus exhibit no symptoms.

Others may experience fever, aches, and fatigue.

In more severe cases, particularly among older adults or those with weakened immune systems, the virus can lead to serious neurological complications such as paralysis or coma.

Residents are urged to consult health care providers if they suspect they are falling ill after mosquito exposure.

Today's vital statistics are sponsored by Crowsie Monument.

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

Today is September 23rd.

These are today's vital statistics.

Marion Buzz Beatty, 94 of Richland Center, died at the Richland Hospital Thursday after a fall at his home.

A public celebration of life will be held at the Richland Center American Legion on Thursday from 3 p.m.

to 7 p.m.

Everyone is encouraged to wear their favorite team apparel.

A private family burial will precede the celebration.

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

Buzz is lovingly survived by Sally and Jerry Zog, his children, Vicki and Dan Hopkins and Brian and Leanne Beatty.

Brother and sister-in-law Linda and Marty Kramer, 14 grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, many other relatives and friends.

Marion Buzz Beatty, 94.

of Richland Center.

Jan Marie Sharp-Pyfron, 77 of Reedsburg, died at home Saturday, September 12.

An open house celebration of life will be held at their home Saturday, September 26.

Those who wish to express sympathy, share stories, and celebrate Jane's life can come anytime between 11 a.m.

to 6 p.m.

In lieu of flowers, please share a memory of Jane.

Gracie Funeral Service in Reedsburg is serving the family.

Jane is survived by her husband Lanny, her children Jane and Dave Ewing, Sally Lee and Dale Schwartz.

Lanny Jr.

and Melissa Pyfron, and Susan and Michael Fuller, eight grandchildren, 13 great-grandchildren, siblings Jeanette Simonson, Doris Creary, Wayne and Kathy Sharp, Melvin and Barb Sharp, Linda and David Turdo, Betty and John Hinsey, and brother-in-law Ted Withie, many nieces, nephews, and friends, Jane Marie Sharp Pyfron, 77, of Reedsburg.

David, Daniel, Higbee, 65 of Richland Center died Wednesday, September 16th.

Funeral services will be held Wednesday, September 30th at 3 p.m.

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

Visitation will be held Wednesday, September 30th from 1 p.m.

until the time of service at 3 p.m.

at the Pratt Memorial Chapel.

Dave Higbee is survived by two children, Daniel Higbee and Angela and Ryan Larson.

Four step children, Karina Fish, John Butler, Rod and Lauren Harris and Simon and Kristen Harris.

12 grandchildren, three great-grandchildren, brother Gary and Becky Higbee, aunts, uncle, nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

David Daniel Higbee, 65 of Richland Center.

Christine M. B.

58 of Richland Center died at home Friday, September 18th.

A celebration of Christine's life will be held Saturday, November 7th, from 12.30 p.m.

until 3.30 p.m.

at the Richland Center Community Center.

The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements.

Christine is survived by her companion, Rob B., her two sons, Ryan and Jelisa B.,

and Brandon B. One grandson, Christine is also survived by her mother, Patty Pat Kraska, siblings Jason and Summer Rowe, Alisa Rowe and Chad Kraska.

Christine M. B.

58 of Richland Center.

Todd A.

Deckert, 59 of Richland Center, died Wednesday, September 16 at Schmidt Woodland Hills, following a battle with a rare disease.

A private family service will be held at a later date.

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

Todd is survived by his daughters, Julianne Turnupseed and Chelsea Deckert, his mother Elaine and Gail Dosh, siblings Tammy and Cameron Walsh and Timothy and Brianna Deckert, two granddaughters, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Todd A. Deckert, 59 of Richland Center.

Welcome back to the news at noon.

David Grant of Civic Media reports on Tuesday, September 22 at approximately 9 p.m.

The Baraboo Police Department responded to an armed robbery at a business located in the 500 block of South Boulevard.

The suspect entered the business, remained inside for a short period of time, approached the counter, displayed a knife, and demanded money from the owner.

The suspect obtained an undisclosed amount of cash before fleeing the scene on a bicycle that is described as dark blue or purple in color with yellow foot pedals.

The suspect is described as a white male, round face and black hair.

He was wearing a black hooded sweatshirt and black jogging pants.

The suspect appeared to have recent facial injuries and blood on his knuckles, consistent with injuries potentially sustained during a physical altercation

prior to the robbery.

Anyone who has had contact with an individual matching this description or who may have information related to this incident is encouraged to contact the Baraboo Police Department at 608-355-2720.

The Baraboo Police Department does not believe there is any ongoing danger to the community.

The investigation remains active and updates will be provided as new information becomes available.

The 95th Viola Horse and Cold Show will be held Friday and Saturday in Viola.

Friday evening will feature a truck and tractor pole in a barnyard bash at 6 o'clock.

Midway Carnival wristband night will be from 6 until 10 o'clock and high mileage will perform after the truck and tractor pole.

Saturday's events include an arts and crafts fair starting at 8 o'clock, a junior livestock show at 9, a horse pole at 9.30, at 10 o'clock will be a horse show and an antique tractor pole.

The midway carnival will open at noon, a parade will be at 1 o'clock, at 3 o'clock will be a truck and tractor pole, a country western dance with Monty Berger and the country gold band starts at 6 o'clock, and a raffle drawing will be held at 10.

You can find more information at the Viola Horse & Colt Show website and on their Facebook events page.

The Richland Center Planning Commission is scheduled to convene for its regular meeting on Wednesday, September 23rd at 5.30pm.

Yes, that's today.

The meeting will take place in person at the council room inside the municipal building.

Members of the public and interested parties are also invited to join virtually through a Microsoft Teams link provided on the official city agenda.

A central focus of the evening's proceedings will be a presentation regarding building inspector services delivered by Tracy Johnson.

Additionally, commissioners will review and approve the meeting minutes from their previous session held August 26th.

The agenda highlights major discussion and action items concerning local property divisions, public hearings and land division applications by certified survey map are slated for both Richland County at the county campus,

and Shriver Foods Incorporated.

These applications involve detailed staff reports and boundary maps designed to guide the Commission's evaluation of the proposed land splits.

To wrap up the session, the Planning Commission will review ongoing work related to the City's comprehensive plan and receive the Zoning Administrator's monthly report detailing recent zoning activities and administrative developments across the community.

Homecoming is being celebrated this week in the River Valley School District.

The theme of this year's homecoming is, Once Upon a Homecoming.

Students, staff, alumni, and even community members are taking part in various school spirit activities that are annual traditions.

Many of the festivities will be held on Friday.

Before those festivities get underway, the homecoming king and queen will be crowned during the homecoming pep rally tomorrow night, which follows the conclusion of the varsity volleyball and boys varsity soccer matches between River Valley and Prairie Dachine.

Friday morning, the school fair will open at eight o'clock with the gymnasium exhibits in the River Valley Intermediate School Gymnasium and various livestock exhibits showing behind the intermediate school.

The livestock auction will start at noon near the school fair pavilion.

The homecoming parade will step off at three o'clock in downtown Spring Green.

In the evening, the River Valley Blackhawks will host the Platteville Hillman in the annual homecoming football game.

Kickoff is scheduled for seven o'clock.

The week-long festivities will wrap up Saturday with the homecoming dance.

More information about this year's River Valley homecoming can be found online at highschool.rvschools.org.

A tribute band will be paying homage to the iconic Johnny Cash when they perform in Richland Center this weekend.

Church of Cash will be taking the stage at the Richland Center City Auditorium on Friday at 7 o'clock.

The band will be celebrating the sound and soul of the legendary Man in Black with their performance.

Jay Ernst is a member of the group.

Johnny Cash has written 1,500 songs, so that's a lot of songs for me to learn.

With that being said, we know over 200 songs right now, which is still a lot of songs.

17 hours straight, Johnny Cash means it's way too long.

Of course, there's the standard songs that you pretty much have to play every night.

You've got your Folsom Prison, your Ring of Fire, Ghost Riders, Jackson, Sunday Morning coming down one piece at a time, Boy Names, you know, the big, big hits.

But we also pepper in some of the lesser known songs, some songs that Johnny Cash covered from other artists that maybe people didn't realize that Johnny Cash did.

But our main point

is that we're celebrating Johnny Cash music together and that we make it a great time.

It's not a history time.

This is time for us all to come together and celebrate Johnny Cash's music.

Those who attend Friday's show will be familiar with many of Johnny's classic songs, no matter what age you are.

I'll see some seven-year-old kid singing every single lyric with me.

and on the same time I'll meet somebody's grandma and they're saying she's celebrating her 97th birthday today and all in everywhere in between people are fans of Johnny Cash and because of the message that he had and the lyrics that stays with you for your whole life that you could pretty much sing today.

Church of Cash's performance will be fun and entertaining for everyone who attends the show.

We put a lot of time and effort to make these songs sound good, and not only that, but we want to make this show entertaining.

Some folks might be thinking, well, I only know two Johnny Cash songs.

Well, realistically, when you come and hear it, you're going to know 10, and I'm going to play 20.

And the rest of those 10 that you don't know, I'm going to make so dang fun that you're going to walk away saying, hey, that was a great concert.

We've been doing this forever.

and we are considered the best Johnny Cash tribute show in the world.

So I'm happy to bring it to you and we can celebrate his music together.

All ages are welcome to attend.

Tickets are $25 per person and can be purchased on the City Auditorium website at thecityauditorium.com.

Enjoy Church of Cash this Friday at 7 o'clock at the Richland Center.

City Auditorium.

More information can also be found on the City Auditorium website or by contacting Mick Cosgrove at AmeriPrize.

US Senator Tammy Baldwin introduced new legislation aimed at protecting voters from potential intimidation or interference by federal law enforcement and military personnel at election polling places.

The bill

titled the Safe Access to the Polls Act would explicitly prohibit federal funds from being used to deploy personnel from U.S.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement, U.S.

Customs and Border Protection, or the National Guard to polling sites.

The legislation comes in response to concerns over statements from administration officials refusing to rule out sending armed federal agents or troops

to voting locations.

Under the provisions of the proposed law, federal agents and troops would be barred from operating within a quarter mile of any polling place, establishing checkpoints along routes used by voters

or interfering in any manner with an eligible voter's access to their assigned voting location.

Senator Baldwin stated that voters must be able to safely cast their balance without obstruction or fear of intimidation.

She argued that placing armed federal agents at community polling sites such as schools, libraries, and places of worship serves to deter eligible citizens from participating in elections.

The introduction of the bill reflects growing efforts

to safeguard voter access and protect local election processes ahead of the upcoming 2026 elections.

Ed and Linda Chitwood have announced the Milk Into Cheese program was a big hit again this year with donations purchasing 10,000 pounds of milk, which will produce 1,000 pounds of cheese for distribution to food pantries.

The Milk Into Cheese hayride will take place October 11th at 1 p.m.

at 1-6-0-2-5, Eddie's Lane in Blue River.

If you plan to attend, please call the Chitwoods at 6-0-8.

537-2340 to let them know you're coming.

Donations are always accepted at the Eddie's Lean address.

Thank you to everyone for your generous donations.

U.S.

Senator Tammy Baldwin, Ranking Member of the Senate Appropriations Labor Health and Human Services and Education Subcommittee, issued a strongly worded statement criticizing recent White House initiatives aimed at tightening political control over the National Institutes of Health grant-making process.

The senator's response follows reports that the administration is drafting an executive order to establish a White House-appointed panel with veto power over science

research that fails to align with the president's political priorities.

This effort builds upon a recent Office of Management and Budget Policy proposal that would grant the administration unprecedented latitude to suspend or cancel federal grants without prior notice.

Senator Baldwin warned that subjecting biomedical research to political scrutiny

threatens critical scientific research, including clinical trials for cancer and treatments for ALS.

She emphasized that public investments in health research should be guided by scientific merit and expert evaluation rather than partisan agendas, calling on congressional colleagues to join her in safeguarding federal research funding.

Governor Tony Evers, alongside the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, has announced nearly $370 million in federal funding designated for 195 local, rural, and urban road and bridge improvement projects across the state.

Distributed through the Surface Transportation Program and the Local Bridge Improvement Assistance Program, the funding aims to modernize transportation infrastructure and bolster safety and efficiency for communities across

Wisconsin.

The funding announcement comes as the federal bipartisan infrastructure law approaches its expiration later this year.

In response, Governor Evers sent a letter to Wisconsin's congressional delegation calling for the swift passage of a surface transportation reauthorization package to maintain steady investment in roads, bridges, public transit, and electric vehicle infrastructure.

Wisconsin Department of Transportation Secretary Christina Boardman highlighted the agency's mission to enhance safety and accessibility across all modes of transportation.

She noted that these programs directly benefit local residents by providing reliable access to schools, workplaces, and local services.

The Surface Transportation Program allocates funding for eligible roadways while the Local Bridge Improvement Assistance Program assists local governments with rehabilitating or replacing severely deficient bridge structures across Wisconsin.

Welcome to segment two, the Wisconsin Department of Justice is advising state residents to check their eligibility for financial compensation following preliminary court approval of a major multi-state settlement with generic drug manufacturers.

The agreement spearheaded by Attorney General Josh Call and a coalition of 47 other states and territories, resolves allegations that several generic pharmaceutical companies

unlawfully conspired to artificially inflate prices and restrict market competition.