Today is October 5th.
These are today's vital statistics.
Mary Waslik, 76 of Casanovia died Wednesday, September 30th at the Sock County Health Care Center in Reedsburg.
A visitation for Mary will be held Friday, October 9th from 4 until 7pm at the Casanovia Chapel.
The Farber Funeral Home in Reedsburg is assisting the family.
Mary Waslik, 76 of Casanovia.
Joseph
Joe B. McEvec, 92 of Muscaday, died September 25th peacefully in his sleep.
Funeral services will be held at 12 noon Saturday, October 10th at St.
John the Baptist Catholic Church in Muscaday.
Visitation will be held Friday, October 9th at the Pratt Funeral Home in Muscaday from 6 p.m.
until 8.30 p.m.
and again Saturday, October 10th from 11 a.m.
until 11.45 a.m.
also at the Pratt Funeral Home in Muscaday.
Burial immediately following the funeral mass will be held at St.
John the Baptist Catholic Cemetery in Muscaday.
A luncheon will be served after the burial at St.
John the Baptist Catholic School Gymnasium next to the church.
Joseph Joe B. McEvec, 92 of Muscaday.
Margaret J.
Peggy Ryan, 78 of Richland Center, died Sunday, September 27 at Schmidt Woodland Hills following an extended illness.
Services will be held at a later date.
Margaret J. Peggy Ryan, 78 of Richland Center.
Julie Ann Ripley, 69 of Bear Valley, died Wednesday, September 30 at Schmidt Woodland Hills.
Upon Julie's wishes, no formal funeral services will be held.
A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.
The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
Julie Ann Ripley, 69 of Bear Valley.
This concludes today's vital statistics.
Good morning, everyone, for WRCO News.
I'm Todd Carpenter, 41 degrees in Richland Center right now under sunny skies.
Nice forecast today, mainly sunny, high of 65.
In the news, a devastating accident in Grant County.
resulted in the death of a three-year-old child Saturday afternoon at approximately 3.34 p.m.
Emergency Services responded to a 9-1-1 report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle at a residential property along Old C. Road in Waterstown Township.
First responders from the Grant County Sheriff's Office and Boscomel EMS were immediately dispatched to the location.
According to preliminary investigative details released by law enforcement,
38-year-old Melinda Brown of Boscobel was returning home when her young son ran across the driveway to greet her.
Brown instructed the child to step clear of the driveway area so she could safely park, and he initially headed back toward the house.
Meanwhile, another child was nearby, moving toys out of the vehicle's path.
The boy turned and came back toward the vehicle without his mother seeing him.
The boy was subsequently struck by the front tire of the SUV.
Family members transported the three-year-old
to amplify hospital in Boscobel where he passed away from his injuries.
The initial investigation indicates that this was a tragic accident, but the incident remains under investigation.
The Richland Center City Council is scheduled to meet Tuesday, October 6th at 6 30 p.m.
in the municipal building.
Council Room.
Key items on the agenda include a presentation of the 2025 audit by Bill Moyline of Johnson Block and Company, as well as a recommendation from the Budget Committee regarding Resolution 2026-12 to authorize in advance from the General Fund for the Valley View Drive project.
The Council will also consider a legal services agreement with Murphy Desmond SC as recommended by the General Government Committee.
Additionally, the Planning Commission has submitted recommendations for two certified survey map land division applications, one for Richland County and another for Shriver Foods Incorporated.
Appointments and confirmations are on the schedule for poll workers, tabulators, chief inspectors and emergency poll workers for the 2026-2070 elections, alongside the appointment of the city attorney.
Finally, the council may convene in closed session to discuss strategy with legal counsel regarding potential litigation in City of Richland Center v. Richland County at all concerning reimbursement for the care of veterans' graves with potential action following an open session.
The City of Richland Center has petitioned for a writ of mandamus, naming Richland County, Kerry Severson, and Jeffrey Harrison as the three respondents.
This is a civil case filed in Richland County.
A writ of mandamus is an extraordinary court order that commands a lower court, government official or agency to perform a mandatory or ministerial duty.
Those are the details available at this time.
We have no additional information.
Please direct any questions to the city or the county.
An 80-year-old Illinois man was injured Saturday afternoon after his vehicle overturned following an attempt to avoid a deer in Grant County.
According to the Grant County Sheriff's Office, emergency personnel were dispatched to a single vehicle crash on County U near Rattlesnake Road in B Town Township at approximately 1.12 p.m.
on Saturday.
Authorities reported that Michael Stoner of Moline was traveling westbound on County U
In a 2026 Subaru Forester, when a deer entered the roadway.
In an effort to avoid hitting the animals, Stoner swerved to the right, causing the vehicle to run off the north side of the road.
The Subaru went through a fence and came to arrest the upside down in a nearby pasture.
Stoner became trapped inside the overturned vehicle and required extrication.
by emergency responders from the Cassville and Bloomington fire departments.
Following his rescue, Cassville EMS transported him to Grant Regional Health Center for treatment and evaluation of non-life-threatening injuries.
Wattoma High School football player Dominic Rooney was airlifted via MedFlight 2 Children's Hospital in Milwaukee following a severe injury during Friday night's homecoming game against Wappan.
Rooney, an 18-year-old senior, suffered critical injuries that left him initially unable to walk or talk.
In a recent social media update, Rooney's mother shared encouraging news regarding his recovery while the road ahead remains long.
She reported that the young athlete has made significant progress and was able to take his first few steps using a walker.
Citizens and community members across Wisconsin are invited to participate in Nature on the Line, a public forum centered on discussing the critical environmental and geological risks associated with two high-voltage power line developments proposed across southern Wisconsin.
Hosted by the nonprofit organization No.
765 Line Incorporated, the event aims to empower local residents by offering factual insights and actionable resources concerning the state's expanding energy infrastructure.
The gathering will take place free of charge from 1 p.m.
to 3 p.m.
at North Crawford High School in Soldiers Grove Sunday, October 25th.
Throughout the afternoon, featured expert speakers will detail the significant hazards involved in constructing Wisconsin's largest power transmission lines through the sensitive ecosystems' unique geological features and wildlife habitats of the Driflus area.
Kurt Main, co-editor of The Driflus Reader, will share insights into the region's historical wildlife ecology, presenting joint research with the International Crane Foundation and UW-Madison's Department of Forest and Wildlife Ecology regarding the threats posed by expansive tower easements with intense 765 kilovolt electromagnetic fields.
Renowned wildlife cinematographer Neil Redig will draw from his extensive global conservation field work
to highlight specific threats facing local bird populations.
Additionally, Forest Yankee of the Crofford stewardship product will address the heightened vulnerability of surface and groundwater stemming from the region's fragile karst landscape characterized by sinkholes, caves, and flood risks and will demonstrate digital tools landowners can utilize to monitor landscape sensitivity.
Doors to the event will open early at 12 p.m.
to allow attendees to gather for informal discussions, pick up educational handouts and sign ongoing petitions with representatives from No.
765 Line Incorporated.
Audience members will also have dedicated opportunities to ask questions directly following each presentation.
To learn more or join the mailing list for updates on future initiatives, including upcoming sessions designed to guide landowners in submitting scoping concerns to the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, interested individuals are encouraged to visit no765line.org.
Governor Tony Evers released a statement regarding the passing of Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper Bradley Rittger on September 21st.
Trooper Rittger
29 was responding to a traffic pursuit when he deployed a tire deflation device on a bridge deck west of the Dunn County, Eau Claire County line.
As he moved to a position of cover, he fell from the bridge onto the roadway below.
Despite life-saving efforts in critical medical care, Trooper Ricker succumbed to his injuries on Friday.
Our hearts break for Trooper Ricker and his family.
He was already leading a life of public service and dedication to our state, and our state workers join his coworkers
and colleagues, friends and loved ones in mourning his passing.
This was a young life lost far too soon, said Governor Evers.
Kathy and I are praying for Trooper Ricker's family and will continue to keep them, his colleagues at the Wisconsin State Patrol and the Department of Corrections, and all those who know and love Trooper Ricker in our hearts and our thoughts in the difficult days ahead.
Trooper Ricker joined the Wisconsin State Patrol as a member of the 67th Recruit class.
He served in the Northwest region for nearly five years, primarily in the Dunn County area.
During his career, he attained certifications as a general law enforcement instructor, mobile field force team member, and squad leader, and salvage vehicle inspector.
Prior to his service with the Wisconsin State Patrol, Trooper Ricker served with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections for three years.
A forthcoming executive order will lower the U.S.
and Wisconsin flags to honor Trooper Rinker when funeral arrangements have been made.
The local community is invited to celebrate Halloween at the upcoming Veterans Trick or Treat event hosted by 40 and 8 local 1268.
Everyone is encouraged to attend dressed in their favorite Halloween costumes for a fun and memorable outing.
In addition to traditional Halloween treats, organizers will be handing out toys and essential school supplies to attendees.
A wide variety of community organizations and local figures will be participating to support the event.
Guests can look forward to seeing members of the American Legion family, the mini-donkeys, the 40 and 8 locomotive, Miss Purdy and Nestor, with appearances by Miss Purdy and Nestor dependent on weather conditions.
First responders and public
Safety officials will also join the festivities, including representatives from the Richland County Sheriff's Department and EMS, as well as the Richland Center Police and Fire Departments, the gathering promises to offer a warm and engaging experience for families and community members of all ages.
Vital statistics.
Mondays Roundup.
Brought to you by Chets, Feed, Seed and Such, Richland Hospital, Cardinal Glass CG, and by New Tech Cards.
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 Mondays Roundup.
Making Mondays just a little less Monday-y.
It's time for the roundup!
Good morning young man!
And again congratulations for 40 plus now buddy!
What a great...
Great Saturday.
We had a lot of people show up and we appreciate that very much.
And
I thought maybe the crowd would wean as we went into
got
more and more, got more and more toward the end.
And after the parade ended and everything.
So just amazed how the people that come out.
Yeah.
Thanks to everybody who helped us out.
You know, the whole staff gave up their Saturdays and Saturday
nights and just amazing that, you know, and thanks to our sponsors, Phil.
Yes.
Goodness.
We are so blessed.
We are so blessed to have the people that we have in this town.
And our sponsors that have been along for 40 years, Joan Chevrolet in town and country home and appliance.
I'm just saying, I mean, look at the Tesnex and you know, you got Napa and they're just so advanced pumping.
Well, there's so many people that we need to think that's why we can do what we can do at 100%.
So because we can act like fools because yeah, yeah, we had, you know,
some talent want to be 100
performers.
Yes.
Well, I think all of them, but, but, but you, right?
I don't know.
Jacob did a wonderful job.
Jacob was awesome.
Jacob was awesome.
Man, did
you just
bottle up that energy?
Oh, you know what?
Wouldn't you like to have that energy for like?
all day.
I mean, just if you could suck his energy out and just keep it in the backpack and just take a little bit, you'd be going forever.
I didn't have it when I was his age.
No, my goodness.
My knees would still be hurting.
He was fun.
Oh, yes.
Great time.
Lots of good accident.
And a special thank you to Tim Thede for back here.
Our engineer.
Our engineer back here.
He did a wonderful job.
And Adam Hess, you know, they
They kind of kept us online
work together.
Yeah.
100%.
And thanks to Ken feed
for wrangling it all up.
You know what?
Ken feed.
He's one of those guys that just keeps going and going and doesn't want any recognition.
And I know he'll probably be mad at me for saying this, but you know what?
Thank you to him.
He absolutely amazing man.
He really is.
He knows a wealth of knowledge.
Oh my goodness.
And it is unreal.
And a shout out to the Richland Center FFA alumni.
They were, they were grilling the rocks to help out the, the auditorium.
And, and I think so of the auditorium.
And, and Craig at the locker.
Oh my goodness.
Thank you, Craig.
Yes.
100%.
I mean, it's, it is amazing how it all came together.
Team effort.
And we, we actually, uh, a lot of ski benefited the auditorium
too.
So
thanks to Gary's lawn care and everybody involved.
So
it was, it was amazing.
It was, it was absolutely amazing.
So anyway, anyway, that's.
Enough to sew boxes.
You have a good weekend besides that.
I
did.
We went to wheels of time
yesterday.
You were saying that
my, my mighty Alice was out there.
Did it get any awards or did they
not?
Uh,
no, I don't, I got, it got moved.
It did get
moved.
It got moved somewhere along the line.
Um, but my, my son James took it out there to thank, thanks to him
as well.
It was kind of a busy weekend for me.
So ever a hank there that little ever
it was there.
Yeah.
You don't call him Hank.
No, I haven't yet.
No, I probably won't, but, uh, the grand babies were all
there
yesterday and my, and my,
grandson Kamari, he got kidnapped by one of the Durst brothers and
took him for a ride.
Pete, Pete took him for a ride.
Did he like it?
Because I was on Saturday night, I was sitting there talking to him and he looks at him and goes, tractor.
I said,
that's green tractor.
Oh, he loves that
thing.
He was going up to total strangers on Saturday, asking them to put him up on the stage because he just wanted to be up on the stage.
That is awesome.
That's awesome.
They kind of made the show too.
They had a good time.
You know what?
A special thanks to June Nee.
You may know her, but you know what?
She's also sacrificed 40 years of Saturday nights to, to not have you at home.
Can you imagine me and Mary to this guy?
I mean, there you go.
So yeah.
First time you've ever been speechless.
That's Chet's chuckle.
Let us start out, buddy.
Let us start out.
It is.
So anyway, here's your office of the day.
Who would you nominate as the office DJ for today?
Office DJ.
Well, just, you know, if someone had to be on a loud speaker, I'm assuming it wouldn't be me.
Probably not.
We'll go with Todd.
Yeah,
Todd's pretty
good.
Yeah,
the news guy.
Good stand-up comedy.
Oh my goodness.
But you know what, Mr. Simonson, can he compose?
He can compose.
I wish we had that cut because that would be a funny joke now.
He really was a great conductor.
Oh my
goodness.
He came with the long tails on and it kind of looked like the conductor in Bugs Bunny, you know.
Yeah, exactly.
Well, anyway, you might be from Arkansas, Phillip.
If the farthest you ever walked is deer in his sobriety test.
And the straightest line you ever walked, maybe.
Maybe.
Yeah, yeah.
But anyway, Chet's chuckles today,
buddy.
Yes, it is.
Do you have any to start with?
Yeah, here we go.
My best friend joined the army.
We knew the ward would be over in no time at all.
Why is that?
Well, because my brother, because my best friend hasn't held the job more than two weeks in his whole life.
How does a lumberjack know how many trees he cuts down in one day?
I
don't
know.
He kept a log.
He
kept a log, boy.
Well, I knew that was coming.
That's why I didn't yell any jokes like that
on Saturday.
We'll be back with more attempts after these words from our sponsor, Chets, Feed, Seed and such.
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And remember, without you, there wouldn't be us.
All right, let's see.
Let's go to our guest presenter today, the conductor.
So this announcement has just been made that ABBA is going on tour next year with Elvis Costello.
But that begs the obvious question.
If you've got a tour with ABBA and Costello, who's on first?
Not bad.
That's pretty good.
That's one of those.
Why didn't I think of that?
Exactly.
It's like, that's pretty good.
Yeah.
Yeah.
Just like his conducting skills.
Yeah.
He's amazing.
Too bad he didn't have too much to conduct the
other day.
Oh my, I'm, I'm, I hope Bo gets that on the video today because people need to see that.
I really, they don't.
I
think we have another guest today.
There's a barber shop.
I think it's the barber's kid.
I got a neighbor.
I don't like to say it this way, but he's kind of funny looking.
Last Halloween when he opened his door, a kid gave him candy.
Oh yes.
What do you do Hank?
I don't know, but I have the same problem.
Anyway, I feel I doubled the value of my mini yesterday.
Put
gas in it.
I did.
I filled it all the way up.
Yup.
Yeah.
I know that with the vibe.
So as long as I keep it to the top, it's double the value.
Right.
As long as you don't have a leak in your tank.
Exactly.
Yeah.
Used to be an old fellow that would go by and he'd carry a gas can with him because he had a hole in his gas tank about a little bit up, about an inch up on the gas tank.
So he can only put in that much.
You know, they need stop and put in more guys.
Can't beat that.
It worked.
Right.
Went on a blind date on Saturday night after the show.
Really?
Yeah.
Let's just say it wasn't, uh, wasn't much of a looker.
She wasn't.
No, no.
We went out to dinner and she had to sneak up on the glass just to get a drink.
Is that
right?
Oh, it's tough, Phil.
That's why.
Yes.
That's why you're
not
married.
Yes.
Do you hear about the tense mummy?
No, he was all wound up.
Oh my goodness.
It's tough, isn't it?
Well, now that it's October, you got to tell a few Halloween.
Yeah, you do.
You do.
I just saw an army of babies walking down the street thing.
Really?
Yeah.
I think, I think it's the infantry.
Not bad.
Not good.
Not bad.
Not bad.
I went on another blind date on Thursday night, Phil.
Really?
Let's just say, you know,
Well, I say that's, that's the both, that's both jokes.
Well, that's not it.
That was funny.
Wasn't that was,
yeah.
Yeah.
Here, here's that.
Here's that joke.
How come your mistakes are funnier than your attempts?
Well, you gotta keep, I can't believe I double double type that's, that's a lot of,
it's
a lot of type in here.
That is anyway.
Well, I'm done with that sheet.
All right.
Well, anyway, see, I, I took a blind date out a while back in December.
of last year.
Really?
Yeah.
I took it to a football game.
It turns out it was the coldest night of the year.
I was hoping to have a good time, but you know, the whole time all I heard was her tooth chatter.
Oh boy, oh boy.
And then.
Not good.
That's why.
Not good.
I changed my password.
Did you?
To incorrect.
So the computer gives me a hint whenever I forget it.
You
know what?
It works.
It's correct.
Oh, that's right.
No, it's
incorrect.
One, two, three exclamation point.
Yes.
Yes.
Yeah.
I'm, I'm sure that's not it because you, you would never get the one, two, three in a row.
I can't remember what number I changed it because I used to have it, you know, like my word.
And then I would go, then I would start with 01 and then 02 and then 03.
And now the computer systems go, no, you can't use the same password or the same characters.
And it's like, okay, I'm never going to remember all these passwords.
Right.
Right.
No me either.
Never.
Seven characters, Mickey, Pluto, Donald.
Daffy, Phil,
Todd, Bo.
Characters.
Characters, yes.
Right, right.
You know, I found your glasses that you lost the other day.
Yo, you did.
Yeah, I found them on the potato wearing them.
Yeah.
Mr. Potato Head?
No, it was a spec tater.
Spec tater?
Oh, boy.
Ain't getting much better.
No.
I was talking to my family over the weekend over video chat.
or my mom and dad, and they keep rereading my birth certificate, Phil.
They do.
Yeah, they're looking for a loophole.
What do you do?
What do you do?
It's tough, Phil.
Was that the kicker?
No.
Because I think it should have
been.
Well, sometimes jokes are hard to come by.
Well, they are.
They
are.
I need to get the cane, you know, and pull you off stage.
Yep, sometimes.
All right, here we go.
Here's your kicker.
Are you ready?
I'm ready.
A dog walked up to a butcher shop.
As the butcher was about to shoe him away, he noticed a $20 note in his mouth that read, eight pork chops.
The maize butcher took the money, wrapped the chops in plastic, and put them in the dog's mouth, and the dog trotted away, Phillip.
Intrigued, the butcher locked his shop and watched the dog wait for a green light, cross the street, and board a waiting bus.
The butcher followed after a few stops.
both exited.
The dog ran up to a house and put the bag of chops on the step, then backed up before he threw himself against the door.
The butcher watched again as he did the same thing twice more, bang bang.
Hmm.
A few moments, a few moments later, um, a few moments later, and you remember who was that?
That was a SpongeBob.
A few moments later, the door opened and guys started yelling at the dog.
This dog is a genius, said the butcher.
Why are you yelling hip?
yelling at him genius explained the man this is the second time this week he's forgotten the keys there you go nothing like a good old dog joke yeah there's not and I guarantee you when he or claimy are not in that no no no claimy was giving me CPR this morning she was like she jumps on your chest oh yes like let's go dead Annie the cat does that and I'm going it's 4 30 in the morning
yeah yeah ready
to roll
What do you do Hank?
I am nothing but a treat guy for them.
That's all they care about.
Treat needs, eats and treats.
They're just
using you.
That's all they are.
But my friend, I hope you have a great day and everybody out there be kind.
You betcha.
That's Hank Ray.
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 October 5th.
These are today's vital statistics.
Mary Wastlik, 76 of Casanovia, died Wednesday, September 30th at the Sauk County Health Care Center in Reedsburg.
A visitation for Mary will be held Friday, October 9th from 4 p.m.
until 7 p.m.
at the Casanovia Chapel.
The Farber Funeral Home in Reedsburg is assisting the family.
Mary is survived by her husband, Kenneth, her children, Terry Waslik and Jenny Meacham, Tracy and Larry Fanta, and Kenneth Waslik.
Seven grandchildren, four great-grandchildren.
Mary Waslik, 76.
of Kazanovia.
Margaret J. Peggy Ryan, 78 of Richland Center, died Sunday, September 27 at Schmidt-Woodland Hills following an extended illness.
Services will be held at a later date.
Peggy Ryan is survived by her son, Michael and Auntie Tillitson of Platville, one grandson, three sisters, Kathy and Dwayne Polinsky, Ryan,
Becky Ryan, and Dorothy and Jim Walsh, special longtime friend Jane Brewer, nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Margaret J. Peggy Ryan, 78, of Richland Center.
Julie Ann Ripley, 69 of Bear Valley, died Wednesday, September 30, at Schmidt-Willem Hills.
Upon Julie's wishes, no formal funeral services will be held.
A celebration of her life will be held at a later date.
The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements.
Julie Ripley is survived by her husband, Alan Bailey of Rural Bear Valley, her daughter, Amy Ripley of Boston, two stepchildren, Brian and Nikki Bailey, and Susie and John Daniels, one grandchild,
four step-grandchildren, eight siblings, Lori Roberts, Mike and Julie Fargen, Pat and Jeanette Fargen, Peggy Hull, Pauline and Chuck Fuhrman, Pat, Mary Pat and John Call, Mary and Dean Brickle, Colleen Furman, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends, Julie Ann Ripley.
69 of Bear Valley.
Victor Edward Jelenik, 75 of Webster City, Iowa, formerly of Richland Center, died Thursday, September 17th.
Private family graveside services were held at the Calvary Cemetery in Webster City.
Victor is survived by his wife Marilyn, one daughter, siblings Michael and Bonnie Jelenik, David and Marcella Jelenik, Jeff and Jane Jelenik,
Gretchen Jelenik and Tom and Rose Jelenik.
Several nieces and nephews.
Victor Edward Jelenik, 75 of Webster City, Iowa, formerly of Richland Center.
And there's a birth announcement.
Margo Poppy Blade was born October 1st.
Parents are Autumn Crary and Thomas Blade of Burnsville, Minnesota, local grandparents Mark and Mary.
prairie.
Congratulations!
Welcome back to the news at noon.
A devastating accident in Grant County resulted in the death of a three-year-old child Saturday afternoon.
At approximately 3.34 p.m.
October 3rd, emergency services responded to a 911 report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle at a residential property along Old C Road in Waterstown Township.
First responders from the Grant County Sheriff's Office and Boscobel EMS were immediately dispatched to the location.
According to preliminary investigative details released by law enforcement, 38-year-old Melinda Brown of Bosquebell was returning home when her young son ran across the driveway to greet her.
Brown instructed the child to step clear of the driveway area so she could safely park, and he initially headed back toward the residence.
Meanwhile, another child was nearby, moving toys out of the vehicle's path.
The boy turned and came back toward the vehicle without his mother seeing him.
The boy was subsequently struck by the front tire of the SUV.
Family members transported the three-year-old to Amplify Hospital in Boscobal where he passed away from his injuries.
The initial investigation indicates this was a tragic accident, but the incident remains under investigation.
An 80-year-old Illinois man was injured Saturday afternoon after his vehicle overturned following an attempt to avoid a deer in Grant County.
According to the Grant County Sheriff's Office, emergency personnel were dispatched to a single vehicle crash on County U near Rattlesnake Road in B Town Township at approximately 1.12 p.m.
Saturday.
Authorities reported that Michael Stoner of Moline, Illinois was traveling westbound on County U in a 2026 Subaru Forester when a deer entered the roadway in an effort to avoid hitting the animal.
Stoner swerved to the right, causing the vehicle to run off the north side of the road.
The Subaru went through a fence and came to arrest upside down in a nearby pasture.
Stoner became trapped inside the overturned vehicle and required extrication by emergency responders from the Cassville and Bloomington fire departments.
Following his rescue, Cassville EMS transported him to Grant Regional Health Center for treatment and evaluation of non-life-threatening injuries.
Watoma High School football player Dominic Rooney was airlifted via med flight to Children's Hospital in Milwaukee, following a severe injury during Friday night's homecoming game against Waupon.
Rooney, an 18-year-old senior, suffered critical injuries that left him initially unable to walk or talk.
In a recent social media update, Rooney's mother shared encouraging news regarding his recovery.
While the road ahead remains long, she reported that the young athlete has made significant progress and was able to take his first few steps using a walker.
The Richlands Center City Council is scheduled to meet
Tuesday, October 6th at 6.30 p.m.
in the Municipal Building Council Room.
Key items on the agenda include a presentation of the 2025 audit by Bill Moyline of Johnson Block & Company, as well as a recommendation from the Budget Committee regarding Resolution 2026-12 to authorize in advance from the General Fund for the Valley View Drive Street Project.
The Council will also consider a legal services agreement with Murphy Desmond SC as recommended by the General Government Committee.
Additionally, the Planning Commission has submitted recommendations for two certified survey map land division applications, one for Richland County and another for Shriver Foods Incorporated.
Appointments and confirmations are on the schedule for poll workers, tabulators, chief inspectors and emergency poll workers for the 2026-2070 elections, alongside the appointment of the city attorney.
Finally, the council may convene a closed session to discuss strategy with legal counsel regarding potential litigation in the City of Richland Center v. Richland County at all concerning reimbursement for the care of veterans' graves with potential action following an open session.
The City of Richland Center has petitioned for a writ of mandamus naming Richland County
Kerry Severson and Jeffrey Harrison as the three respondents.
This is a civil case filed in Richland County.
A writ of mandamus is an extraordinary court order that commands a lower court, government official, or agency to perform a mandatory or ministerial duty.
Please direct any questions to the city or the county.
Governor Tony Evers released a statement regarding the passing of Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper Bradley Rittger.
On September 21, Trooper Rittger, 29, was responding to a traffic pursuit when he deployed a tire deflation device on a bridge deck west of the Dunn County, Eau Claire County line.
As he moved to a position of cover, he fell from the bridge onto the roadway below.
Despite life-saving efforts in critical medical care,
Trooper Ricker succumbed to his injuries on Friday.
Our hearts break for Trooper Ricker and his family.
He was already leading a life of public service and dedication to our state, and our state workers joined his coworkers and colleagues, friends, and loved ones in mourning his passing.
This was a young life lost far too soon, said Governor Evers.
Kathy and I are praying for Trooper Ricker's family and will continue to keep them, his colleagues at the Wisconsin State Patrol, and the Department of Corrections, and all those who know and love Trooper Ricker in our hearts and our thoughts in the difficult days ahead.
Trooper Ricker joined the Wisconsin State Patrol as a member of this 67th Recruit class.
He served in the Northwest Region for nearly five years, primarily in the Dunn County area.
During his career, he attained certifications as a General Law Enforcement Instructor, Mobile Field Force Team Member, and Squad Leader, and Selvidge Vehicle Inspector.
Prior to his service with the Wisconsin State Patrol, Trooper Ricker served with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections for three years.
A forthcoming executive order will lower the U.S.
and Wisconsin flags to honor Trooper Ricker, when funeral arrangements have been made.
The Board of Directors and Leadership team of the Richland Hospital and Clinics announced President-Chief Executive Officer Bruce Racler has shared plans to retire in April, 2027, concluding 12 years of dedicated service to the organization and community.
TRHC Board of Directors Chair Ed Leinweber stated, we are deeply grateful for Bruce's years of service and leadership.
His commitment to rural health care and to the people of this community has left a lasting impact on our organization.
While we all have opportunities in the months ahead to celebrate his contributions, our focus today is on ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining the excellent care and service our community expects and deserves.
Throughout his tenure at the Richland Hospital and Clinics, Bruce has led with vision, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the communities served.
Under his leadership, the organization expanded services, strengthened provider recruitment, navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, and established key partnerships with UW Health, UW School of Medicine, Orient Initiative, and the Wisconsin High Value Network.
He also helped unify operations of the hospital and the former Richland Medical Center to create a more coordinated care experience.
These accomplishments represent just a few of the many lasting improvements achieved during Racelor's tenure.
The Board of Directors has initiated a thoughtful and comprehensive process to guide the organization's leadership transition and identify its next Chief Executive Officer.
The Board is committed to selecting a leader who will continue advancing the mission
while building upon the strong foundation established over the past decade under Racler's leadership.
Importantly, Racler will continue serving in his role throughout the search and transition process.
Once a successor is selected, he will remain actively engaged to ensure a smooth and thoughtful onboarding process, providing continuity for employees, providers, patients, and community partners.
Serving this organization and community has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.
While retirement will bring a new chapter for my family and me, I remain fully committed to our employees, medical staff, patients, and community throughout this transition.
I have complete confidence in the future of this organization and look forward to supporting a successful handoff to our next leader, Racelor Sad.
The Richland County Executive and Finance Standing Committee and the Richland County Campus Reconfiguration Committee will convene for a joint meeting today at 5 p.m.
in the Richland County Boardroom at the Courthouse and Richland Center.
A central item on the agenda.
is a presentation by the City of Richland Center detailing plans for the future of the campus property.
Following open deliberations, the committees are scheduled to enter a closed session pursuant to Wisconsin statute to negotiate and deliberate potential terms of the sale of the campus property, including the discussion of a memorandum of understanding for the purchase of the property.
Any formal action resulting from the closed session will be taken after returning to open session.
The City of Richlands Center Public Safety Committee is scheduled to meet today at 5.30pm in the conference room at the municipal building.
Among the primary discussion items on the agenda is the potential creation of a new municipal ordinance aimed at preventing commercial vehicles from parking in private driveways within residential areas.
Committee members will evaluate community impacts and regulatory frameworks to address residential parking concerns.
In addition to policy discussions, the committee will conduct a routine budget review featuring the presentation of the latest budget report.
The proceedings will also cover the formal review and approval of monthly bills followed by the Chief of Police report highlighting the departmental activities details for the month of August.
WRCO celebrated 40 years of Phil Nee's Those Were The Days show at the Richland Center City Auditorium Saturday night.
A raucous, happy crowd was treated to skits, stand-up comedy expert musical direction by Chris Simonson featuring the musical stylings of Phil Nee himself, a drop-in by Miss P. Ridge, cold case files from Ithaca High School, and doo-wop crooning by the founding members of Marty and the Corn Dogs.
The star of the show was Phil Knee, as it should have been, with visits from several former colleagues at WRCO and some witty banter with his wife, June.
Phil conducted a live broadcast of the show with the help of Adam Ness and Tim Fede.
Ownership and management from civic media were in attendance as well, laughing along with the crowd and showing reverence for Phil's massive contributions to local radio.
The event also served as a fundraiser for the continued restoration of the auditorium.
Concession sales were definitely strong, raising $2,000 for the cause.
Everyone on the staff at WRCO had a great time putting the show together, and the crowd definitely went home happy, so much so that several requests have been made to make it an annual event.
There has been no decision on that idea as of yet, to be honest, Phil was caught by surprise by the suggestion.
Thank you to all who attended live or listened to the broadcast as it happened.
Phil's no Rodney Dangerfield.
He's getting some respect.
W-E-A-U-13 News and the Eau Claire Area Chamber of Commerce will host a nonpartisan candidate forum featuring Republican incumbent Representative Derek Van Orden and Democratic challenger Rebecca Cook, October 20th in Eau Claire.
The event represents the first joint forum between the two candidates competing for Wisconsin's third congressional district seat during this election cycle.
Though the organizers noted that the format will be a forum rather than a traditional debate.
Moderated by WEAU, the discussion will center on key issue areas affecting local voters, including affordability, the state of the economy, federal spending, tax policy, health care, and energy.
The event will take place in person with limited seating, requiring
pre-registration for attendees and will also be broadcast live on Channel 13 as well as streamed online.
Travelers crossing between Wisconsin and Lansing Iowa will soon have a direct route across the Mississippi River once again as state transportation officials announced that the new Iowa Highway 9 Wisconsin 82 Bridge is set to open Friday, November 6th.
The milestone comes months ahead of the original target completion date of spring 2027, driven by efficient construction progress and favorable weather conditions.
The expedited timeline marks significant progress for the multi-year infrastructure effort, which began in late 2023.
Following the demolition of the previous structure in December 2025, commuter and freight traffic relied on a temporary free car ferry service jointly operated by Wisconsin Department of Transportation and Iowa DOT.
With the ferry handling upwards of 550 vehicles daily during peak summer months, the upcoming opening will restore seamless regional connectivity and substantially reduce travel times for residents and local businesses.
While traffic will resume on the main span in early November, remaining work will continue through winter and
into early 2027.
Work crews will focus on site restoration around the ferry landing sites, removal of legacy bridge piers, and final deck adjustments.
Department officials noted that the minor lane restrictions may occur during the final touch-ups in the spring, but no full closures are anticipated before the entire project wraps up in late spring next year.
Citizens and community members across Wisconsin are invited to participate in Nature on the Line, a public forum centered on discussing the critical environmental and geological risks associated with two high-voltage power line developments proposed across southern Wisconsin.
Hosted by the nonprofit organization No.
765 Line Incorporated, the event aims to empower local residents by offering factual insights and actionable resources concerning the state's expanding energy infrastructure.
The gathering will take place free of charge from 1 p.m.
to 3 p.m.
at North Crawford High School in Soldiers Grove, Sunday, October 25.
Throughout the afternoon, featured expert speakers will detail the significant hazards involved in constructing Wisconsin's largest power transmission lines through the sensitive ecosystems, unique geological features, and wildlife habitats of the Driftless area.
Kurt Main, co-editor of The Driftless Reader, will share insights into the region's historical wildlife ecology, presenting joint research with the International Crane Foundation and UW-Madison's Department of Forests and Wildlife Ecology regarding the threats posed by expansive tower easements and intense 765 kilovolt electromagnetic fields.
Renowned wildlife cinematographer Neil Redig will draw from his extensive global conversation fieldwork, conservation fieldwork to highlight specific threats facing local bird populations.
Additionally, Forest Janky of the Crawford Stewardship Project will address the heightened vulnerability of surface and groundwater stemming from the region's fragile, karst landscape.
characterized by sinkholes, caves, and flood risks, and will demonstrate digital tools landowners can utilize to monitor landscape sensitivity.
Doors to the event will open early at 12 noon and to allow attendees to gather for informal discussions, pick up educational handouts, and sign ongoing petitions with representatives from no 765 line incorporated.
Audience members will also have dedicated opportunities to ask questions directly following each presentation.
To learn more or join the mailing list for updates on future initiatives, including upcoming sessions designed to guide landowners in submitting scoping concerns to the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin.
Interested individuals are encouraged to visit no765line.org.
Inside radio reports, the fall political advertising rush has officially arrived, driven by record-setting expenditures as key congressional races heat up nationwide.
According to recent tracking from ad impact, political ad spending reached $1.58 billion in September, nearly doubling August figures and marking a 41% increase compared to the same period in 2022.
Congressional contests continue to be the primary catalyst with more than $1 billion currently reserved for House and Senate races leading up to Election Day.
The Wisconsin Department of Justice has issued a reminder regarding the state and federal protections in place to safeguard elections.
Attorney General Call emphasized that every eligible voter is entitled to cast their ballot freely and safely, reaffirming the department's commitment to maintaining fair and secure voting across Wisconsin.
To ensure safety through Election Day, the DOJ's Division of Criminal Investigation operates through the Wisconsin State Intelligence
Center.
The Center continuously monitors, analyzes, and shares intelligence regarding potential threats with local, state, federal, and campus law enforcement as well as election administrators.
The DOJ acts as a key resource to local district attorneys, law enforcement agencies, and the Wisconsin Elections Commission.
Under state law, voter intimidation and threats directed at election officials are criminal offenses.
It is illegal to use force.
threats, duress or fraud to compel or prevent someone from voting.
Additionally, threatening election officials or disrupting polling place proceedings is prohibited.
Prohibited intimidating acts include verbal violence, wearing military-style uniforms to confront voters, brandishing firearms, aggressively approaching voters' vehicles, following voters or blockading polling sites.
Private groups are also barred from conducting unauthorized military or law enforcement activities.
Federal regulations generally prohibit federal officials from stationing military or armed personnel at polling locations unless necessary to repel armed enemies of the United States.
Federal personnel are prohibited from interfering with voting rights.
Anyone who observes or experiences voter intimidation or threats at a polling site should immediately report the incident to an election official and local law enforcement or dial 911 in cases of immediate violence.
Governor Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Transportation announced that counties and municipalities statewide received over $152 million in fourth-quarter payments for 2026.
These funds support general transportation, connecting highway and expressway policing aids to repair, maintain and upgrade local roads and state highways.
Provided through the 2025-27 biennial budget, this final distribution brings total aid for calendar year 2026 to a record $570 million, directly benefiting local communities and improving driver safety.
The bipartisan 2025-27 budget significantly expanded state support by adding $1.1 billion for key infrastructure initiatives.
It delivered a 3% annual increase to the General Transportation Aids Program, while providing over $33.2 million more to municipalities and near nearly $10 million more to counties over the biennium.
Overall support for local transportation programs now accounts for nearly one-third of Wisconsin's total state transportation budget.
The local community is invited to celebrate Halloween at the upcoming Veterans Trick or Treat event hosted by 40 and 8 local 1268.
Everyone is encouraged to attend dressed in their favorite Halloween costumes for a fun and memorable outing.
In addition to traditional Halloween treats, organizers will be handing out toys and essential school supplies to attendees.
A wide variety of community organizations and local figures will be participating to support the event.
Guests can look forward to seeing members of the American Legion family, the mini-donkeys, the 40 and 8 locomotive, Miss Purdy and Nestor with appearances by Miss Purdy and Nestor dependent on the weather.
First responders and public safety officials will also join the festivities, including representatives from the Richland County Sheriff's Department and EMS, as well as the Richland Center Police and Fire Departments.
The gathering promises to offer a warm and engaging experience for families and community members of all ages.
The Richland Fire Board has scheduled its upcoming meeting for Monday, October 12th, starting at 7 p.m.
The meeting will take place in person at the fire station located at 205 East Mill Street in Richland Center.
Key highlights of the session reside in the new business portion of the agenda where discussions will center on reviewing and potentially approving the proposed 2027
annual budget additionally the board plans to deliberate on amending section 15 of the fire district contract considering changes to party payments for call response pay as well as establishing interest charges on overdue fire call invoices and year-end account balances before concluding the meeting will open the floor for citizen input and address any final administrative business
Today's vital statistics are sponsored by Krause Monument.
Krause Monument designs and produces granite gravestones, headstones, monuments, markers, and memorials.
Today is October 5th.
These are today's vital statistics.
Mary Wastlik, 76 of Casanovia, died Wednesday, September 30th at the Salk County Health Care Center in Reedsburg.
A visitation for Mary will be held Friday, October 9th, from 4 p.m.
until 7 p.m.
at the Casanovia Chapel.
The Farber funeral home in Reedsburg is assisting the family.
Mary Waslik, 76, of Casanovia.
Margaret J. Peggy.
Ryan, 78 of Richland Center, died Sunday, September 27 at Schmidt Woodland Hills following an extended illness.
Services will be held at a later date.
Margaret J. Peggy Ryan, 78 of Richland Center.
Julie Ann Ripley, 69 of Bear Valley, died Wednesday, September 30 at Schmidt Woodland Hills.
Upon Julie's wishes, no formal funeral services will be held.
A celebration of life will be held at a later date.
The Clarke Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with their arrangements.
Julie Ann Ripley, 69 of Bear Valley.
Victor Edward Jelenick, 75 of Webster City, Iowa.
formerly of Richland Center, died Thursday, September 17th.
Private family graveside services were held at the Calvary Cemetery in Webster City.
Victor Edward Jelenik, 75, of Webster City, Iowa, formerly of Richland Center.
And we have a birth announcement.
Margo...
Poppy Blade was born October 1st.
Parents are Autumn Crary and Thomas Blade of Burnsville, Minnesota.
Local grandparents are Mark and Mary Crary.
Congratulations.
This concludes today's Vital Statistics.
Good evening everyone for WRCO News.
I'm Todd Copernall.
Weston High School is gearing up for a landmark celebration as homecoming 2026 marks 70 years of school spirit and community tradition.
The week-long festivities run from October 11th through October 17th, offering a dynamic lineup of academic spirit events, athletic competitions, alumni honors, and family-friendly entertainment.
The excitement kicks off Sunday, October 11th, with hallway decorating from 11 a.m.
until 3 p.m., continuing Monday afternoon from 3.30 p.m.
to 7.30 p.m.
Monday night also features special paint night hosted by Student Council and artist Justina Ide in the cafeteria.
alongside a JV football matchup at Iowa Grant at 5 p.m.
and Middle School Volleyball at North Crawford.
On Tuesday, official hallway judging takes place at 3.30 p.m., followed by varsity volleyball at the SOTO, starting at 5.30 p.m.
Midweek tradition stays strong Wednesday with high school class float building in the western shop from 8 a.m.
to 10 a.m.
and 6 p.m.
to 8 p.m.
Students and supporters can enjoy Mrs. Kasten's cookout during float construction capped off with a traditional bonfire at dusk.
Thursday, cross-country championships take place at Kick-A-Boo while middle school football plays at Royal.
Back at Weston, the FFA hosts a pork feed from 5 until 7 p.m.
preceding a distinguished alumni plaque presentation at 7 p.m.
and varsity volleyball pink-out game against Ithaca at 7.15 p.m.
Friday brings maximum spirit starting with an all-school pep rally from 12.15 to 1.45 p.m.
immediately followed by the annual homecoming parade from 1.45 until 2.30 p.m.
Evening activities begin in the cafeteria at 4.45 p.m.
with the West End Silver Eagle found
induction ceremony, followed by live music from 5 until 545 by Jacob, featuring basic age, including Weston alumni Jacob McCluskey, Cody Bell, and Tucker Arneson.
Fans can enjoy pregame food trucks, bounce houses, and face painting before the Silver Eagles take the field against Nasita at 6 p.m.
The night concludes at 8 p.m.
with the Weston Silver Eagle Foundation Alumni Social.
at Hill Point Hideaway.
The celebration wraps up Saturday with the back-to-the-nest retired staff social from 1 p.m.
to 5 p.m.
welcoming the entire community to reconnect followed by the Homecoming Dance Grand March starting at 8 p.m.
The ongoing partnership between Southwest Wisconsin Technical College and local emergency service agencies was on full display during a recent hands-on training session conducted by the Fenimore Fire Department at the college's dedicated firefighter training facility.
The evening offered firefighters a realistic environment to refine critical skills and marked a special occasion as the department hosted Fred Lumitz.
publisher and photographer for the Wisconsin Fire Journal, who was on site gathering material for an upcoming feature story on Fenimore's emergency responders.
Southwest Tech's Fire Service Training Coordinator, Carl Sandry, worked alongside Fenimore Fire Chief, Todd Breesie, to facilitate the session.
Regular training at the facility allows local firefighters to practice complex smoke, fire, search and rescue, and vehicle extrication scenarios without relying on the unpredictable availability of donated buildings.
Beyond serving Fenimore, the versatile site acts as a regional hub for emergency personnel from surrounding communities, including Cobb, Lancaster, Buscabelle and Platteville, as well as local law enforcement providing safe, scheduled,
and repeatable exercises that strengthen community preparedness across Southwest Wisconsin.
A devastating accident in Grant County resulted in the death of a three-year-old child Saturday afternoon.
At approximately 3.34 p.m.
October 3rd, emergency services responded to a 911 report of a pedestrian struck by a vehicle
at a residential property along old C Road in Waterstown Township.
First responders from the Grant County Sheriff's Office and Boscoville EMS were immediately dispatched to the location, according to preliminary investigative details released by law enforcement.
A 38-year-old woman of Bosquebell was returning home when her young son ran across the driveway to greet her.
She instructed the child to step clear of the driveway area so she could safely park, and he initially headed back toward the residence.
Meanwhile, another child was nearby moving toys out of the vehicle's path.
The boy turned and came back toward the vehicle without his mother seeing him.
The boy was subsequently struck by the front tire of the SUV.
Family members transported the three-year-old to Amplify Hospital in Bosqueville, where he died from his injuries.
The initial investigation indicates this was a tragic accident, but the incident remains under investigation.
An 80-year-old, the Illinois man, was injured Saturday afternoon after his vehicle overturned
following an attempt to avoid a deer in Grant County.
According to the Grant County Sheriff's Office, emergency personnel were dispatched to a single vehicle crash on County U near Rattlesnake Road in B-Town Township at approximately 1.12 p.m.
on Saturday.
Authorities reported that Michael Stoner of Moline was traveling westbound on County U in a 2026 Subaru Forester when a deer entered the roadway.
In an effort to avoid hitting the animals, Stoner swerved to the right, causing the vehicle to run off the north side of the road.
The Subaru went through a fence and came to rest upside down in a nearby pasture.
Stoner became trapped inside the overturned vehicle and required extrication by emergency responders from the Cassville and Bloomington fire departments.
Following his rescue, Cassville EMS transported him to Grant Regional Health Center
for treatment and evaluation of non-life-threatening injuries.
Wattoma High School football player Dominic Rooney was airlifted via med flight to Children's Hospital in Milwaukee following a severe injury during Friday night's homecoming game against Walpaw.
Rooney, an 18-year-old senior, suffered critical injuries that left him initially unable to walk or talk.
In a recent social media update, Rooney's mother shared encouraging news regarding his recovery.
While the road ahead remains long, she reported that the young athlete has made significant progress and was able to take his first few steps using a walker.
The Richland Center City Council is scheduled to meet Tuesday at 6.30 p.m.
in the Municipal Building Council Room.
Key items on the agenda include a presentation of the 2025 audit by Bill Moylene of Johnson Block & Company, as well as a recommendation from the Budget Committee regarding Resolution 2026-12 to authorize in advance from the General Fund for the Valley View Drive Street Project.
The council will also consider a legal services agreement with Murphy Desmond SC as recommended by the General Government Committee.
Additionally, the Planning Commission has submitted recommendations for two certified survey map land division applications, one for Richland County and another for Shriver Foods Incorporated.
Appointments and confirmations are on the schedule for poll workers, tabulators, chief inspectors and emergency poll workers for the 2026-2027 elections alongside the appointment of the city attorney.
Finally, the council may convene in closed session to discuss strategy with legal counsel regarding potential litigation in City of Richland Center v. Richland County at all concerning reimbursement for the care of veterans' graves with potential action following an open session.
The City of Richland Center has petitioned for a writ of mandamus naming Richland County
Kerry Severson and Jeffrey Harrison as the three respondents.
This is a civil case filed in Richland County.
A writ of mandamus is an extraordinary court order that commands a lower court, government official, or agency to perform a mandatory or ministerial duty.
Please direct any questions to the city or the county.
Governor Tony Evers released a statement regarding the passing of Wisconsin State Patrol Trooper Bradley Rittger.
On September 21st, Trooper Rittger, 29, was responding to a traffic pursuit when he deployed a tire deflation device on a bridge deck west of the Dunn County, Eau Claire County line.
As he moved to a position of cover, he fell from the bridge onto the roadway below.
Despite life-saving efforts and critical medical care, Trooper Rittger succumbed to his injuries on Friday.
Our hearts break for Trooper Rittger and his family.
He was already leading a life of public service and dedication to our state, and our state workers joined his co-workers and colleagues, friends and loved ones, in mourning his passing.
This was a young life lost far too soon, said Governor Evers.
Kathy and I are praying for Trooper Ricker's family and will continue to keep them, his colleagues at the Wisconsin State Patrol and the Department of Corrections, and all those who know and love Trooper Ricker in our hearts and our thoughts in the difficult days ahead.
Trooper Ricker joined the Wisconsin State Patrol as a member of the 67th Recruit class.
He served in the Northwest Region for nearly five years, primarily in the Dunn County area.
During his career, he attained certifications as a general law enforcement instructor, mobile field force team member, and squad leader, and salvage vehicle inspector.
Prior to his service with the Wisconsin State Patrol, Trooper Rittger served with the Wisconsin Department of Corrections for three years.
A forthcoming executive order will lower the U.S.
and Wisconsin flags to honor Trooper Rittger when funeral arrangements have been made.
The board of directors and leadership team of the Richland Hospital and Clinics announced President-Chief Executive Officer Bruce Raceler has shared plans to retire in April 2027, concluding 12 years of dedicated service to the organization and community.
TRHC Board of Directors Chair Ed Lineweber stated, While we will have opportunities in the months ahead to celebrate his contributions, our focus today is on ensuring a smooth transition and maintaining the excellent care and service our community expects and deserves.
Throughout his tenure at the Richland Hospital and Clinics, Bruce has led with vision, collaboration, and a deep commitment to the community served.
Under his leadership, the organization expanded services, strengthened provider recruitment, navigated the COVID-19 pandemic, and established key partnerships with UW Health, UW School of Medicine, the Orient Initiative, and the Wisconsin High Value Network.
He also helped unify operations of the hospital and the former Richland Medical Center to create a more coordinated care experience.
These accomplishments represent just a few of the many lasting improvements achieved during Racler's tenure.
The board of directors has initiated a thoughtful and comprehensive process to guide the organization's leadership transition and identify its next chief executive officer.
The board is committed to selecting a leader who will continue advancing the mission while building upon the strong foundation established over the past decade under Racelor's leadership.
Importantly, Racler will continue serving in his role throughout the search and transition process.
Once a successor is selected, he will remain actively engaged to ensure a smooth and thoughtful onboarding process, providing continuity for employees, providers, patients, and community partners.
Serving this organization and community has been one of the greatest privileges of my career.
While retirement will bring a new chapter for my family and me, I remain fully committed to our employees, medical staff, patients, and community throughout this transition.
I have complete confidence in the future of this organization and look forward to supporting a successful handoff to our next leader, Racelor Sad.
Vital statistics right after this.