WRCO News at Noon

It's time for Thursday's Roundup.

Thursday's Roundup is powered by added touch, floral, and gifts.

Schmidt Woodland Hills, Richland Hospital, Cardinal Glass CG, Badgerland Flooring, and by Pratt Funeral Incrimination Service.

It's game day.

We're rolling out dumb cheap games that somehow turn into bragging rights.

No strategy, no practice, just luck, vibes, and questionable choices.

the most anticipated moment of the week, especially if you're from Arkansas.

If it comes back quick, that's a green light and you can take a victory lap.

If it drags on, Hank says, step away, stretch like nothing happened, and act like you had better plans all along.

So tune in, play along, and let Thursday's roundup turn ordinary into slightly ridiculous in the best way possible.

Grab your skates, yeah, we're calling you.

It's time for the roundup.

There

he is.

How you doing, young man?

Yeah, I'm doing great.

Hey, I found something for you.

Good.

You know, cause I know you're a big hula hoop fan.

I am?

Yeah.

Well, you didn't even know that.

Well, you used to have hula hoops in here and, but anyway, uh, since it's

You know Guinness World Record Day and but most hula hoop spin spins by a rat in one minute Phil

by a rat

by rat

That must have been a little hula hoop

had to be or a big rat so but 14 14 14 spins

that's pretty impressive.

It really is I thought you this

rat this rat can't do one

this rat can't either.

No,

so I don't know what it is.

But anyway, you ever have you ever Have your back hurt

Yeah.

Oh, there's nothing worse.

All right.

So the doctor yesterday says, you know what?

You want to act like that you're pregnant.

Okay.

As for, cause a lot of women will do this, you know, we'll stand there like this.

If they're pregnant and it helps their back.

Okay.

And it works.

Right.

Yeah.

I, so if you see me doing this, I'm not pregnant.

I just, my back

hurts.

Okay.

Yeah.

No, I'm just because my back hurts all the time.

All right.

And you do this, it loosens up the hips in the back.

Really?

So that's a helpful hint from Hank.

The health tips.

Health tips from Hank.

Hillbilly health tips.

That's

kind of scary.

It is, isn't

it?

Hands on the hip and you

can rotate.

You

can

see it on Facebook,

I

think.

Wow.

We all just really needed that, but that's

all right.

That's all right.

Did you have fun last night?

Did you do anything fun?

Well, yes.

Watching the grandson.

Took him for a ride, I'm sure.

Let me see.

One, two,

Three rides.

Mm-hmm.

Yep.

Yeah

to what the the farm all one with the Alice Chalmers

So I have a question for you, you know, they make those pedal tractors.

Do you think that would help?

I don't know It'd have to have like a motor sound effect probably

what about like What are those little electric cars?

What are those used to call it?

You know they used to have jeeps and stuff with with batteries in them.

Um

Oh, power toys.

Is it power?

Power toys?

Do you remember that?

They're for kids.

Yeah.

And you charge them with the battery and move on.

Huh.

And let him drive it around the yard.

Right.

I don't know.

The attention span of a two and a half year old is just like boop boop boop

boop boop boop

boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop

boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop

boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop boop bo

But we didn't go on a night drive.

His goal was he wanted to drive one in the dark.

So we did go on a night, you know, against my better judgment.

But as I said earlier, I don't think we hit anything, but we'll find out now as I look around the yard,

see whether we did or not.

Let's see if your water pipes are popping out or your sewer gushed on out.

Yeah.

Those, those lights, you know, they've been on that tractor since 1952.

So they're still good.

Are they really?

Yeah.

I bet they're bright too.

They're not

bad.

Not bad.

Good for you though and good for good for him.

Yeah.

Well,

it is it's some good grandpa kid 100% You got to take advantage of it Hank because they they think you're a hero tiller about I don't know 9 or 10

Yeah,

exactly.

Yeah, so you got to soak it up all you can.

Yeah tractor tractors.

Yeah, is that what he says that whole time tractor

grandpa can we go on a tractor ride?

Something like that.

Yeah

You sound pretty good.

I heard it 50 times last time.

I'm sure you did.

What's the funniest miscommunication you've ever experienced here at work?

Now that could be given information to you or you could be given, you know, what is the funniest information or the

I don't know what on one, but we've talked about funny texts and how things get

changed

sometimes.

And I communicated with a coach last year and I said, will you have time for, I meant to say, will you have time for an interview today?

And it changed it.

Will you have time for an intervention today?

Oh my

gosh.

Did he respond?

He goes, yeah, I probably should.

Got it wrong.

We can do both.

Yeah.

You might be from Peerage, Phillip.

If you've never kept a job long enough to qualify employee for the month.

Oh, yeah, that'd be, well, maybe they should not get back to employee of three weeks.

Yeah, right.

Yeah.

Oh, what do you do?

Today is game day.

Fun and games day.

Yeah, it is.

And today,

We're bringing out the bowling ball.

Oh man.

Yeah.

So, you know, I used to bowl back in the day.

What was your highest score ever in bowling?

Hank,

you know, I don't know.

I think probably 190 190.

Yeah.

Yeah.

I had a two 12 ones, but I think that was a series.

So

three

three game series.

Yeah.

All right.

Well, all right.

So here

that's our bowling game.

So it looks like a bowling alley of years, years ago, although it's a mini one.

So it'd be like a mini one for like many people.

like a bowling alley for ants maybe

right we're gonna we're gonna play it this way that way people can see it home okay make sure that people can see it fill it all

right

and you gotta be careful here

we have the pins set up yeah that very nice you have 10 pins so we have this is kind of like um when they do kids bowling when they do bumper

bowling

you got something you can roll the ball down

Right, but there's no bumpers here.

Maybe I should have put bumpers here.

Well, we could put pencils there.

Well,

no, I'm thinking popsicle sticks for bumpers would have worked.

But anyway, it's a small wooden bowling alley.

Who goes first?

Well, you're going to

go first.

Here's what we're going to do.

We're just going to score per pin.

You're going to get two rolls.

All right.

All right.

So what if I only need one?

Well, then, then we're going to set them up again and you get another two pins.

You get another.

Really?

Yeah.

So you're the pin monkey?

I'm the pin monkey.

Okay.

All right.

Are you ready?

Here we go.

Phil

needs first roll here as he's coming up.

Let's see what he's

got.

Oh, I think I got three.

Are you sure?

I

think it went in the gutter first.

Oh, that did.

Well, that shouldn't count

also.

Oh, that does.

Does it?

Yeah.

Oh, okay.

So you got three.

I

only have three.

Oh man, that stinks.

Oh, well.

And they're nice, nice looking pins though.

Yeah, they're not bad.

Huh?

So,

okay.

Anyway, wherever it lands.

So now you have three.

Now, Phillip.

Oh, he got a little.

Thank you.

Nice job.

Thank you very much there.

Wonderful.

I'll get my name on the radio.

Uh, Phil Knees scores a for bowling for bowling.

Yeah.

I don't know.

Used to be in a couples league years ago.

Oh, you did.

I did.

Yeah.

June and I, it was June actually

went out there with

you for a while.

Was, was June a good bowler?

Um, I better than me probably.

Oh, okay.

Yeah.

So

she can't pick football teams worth a hoot

or, or husbands, but

I'm not saying that I did not say

that.

You know, I got to give her a bear's credit.

You know, they're, they're, uh, I, I'm thinking that they come into the game a lot more like aggressive, you know.

So, and to me, that's coaching, you know, I mean, they're ready to play.

Um, and lots of penalties.

I also kind of blame on coaches.

So.

in the NFL.

So, but we'll see how it goes.

Yeah.

So it's just like a discipline.

You guys are getting paid this much money.

Yeah.

And it used to be whether the Bears were having a good year or not, the Packers always had the edge because it always seemed like we were in their heads.

Like they didn't play

their best the other way around, but

it's the other way around now.

That's, that's what's scary.

That's why Phil's not bragging too much.

And I haven't played any John Denver this week either.

You should probably will.

All right.

Hanks number one.

Ready?

Oh, he just went

slow and he got four pins.

I have to, uh, eliminate all of them or it's, you win.

Okay.

And he got, oh, he got nine.

He got a nine-er.

Oh, yeah.

Yeah.

That wasn't fair.

You bumped the table there, man.

That's like, that's like two weeks in a row that you have.

Well,

yeah, I wouldn't say dominate, but I just,

Hey, 10 to nine.

Hey, when's a win?

When's a win?

Yeah.

That's a nice little bowling alley.

Yeah.

It's a nice little bowling alley.

I wish they would say, I wish you had a rack to set the pens on.

Yeah.

I mean, no kidding.

That would have been all right.

Yeah.

Takes too long to put up all the pens again, but you'd put up

back in the old days, you

know, yeah.

Used to get paid for that.

pin monkey.

Really?

Is that what it was?

Was it pin

monkey?

The country group that was out in the early 2000s, pin monkey, they were named after that.

And they were named because Homer Simpson mentioned it in one of the episodes of the Simpsons that his goal or his dream was to someday be a pin monkey.

Man that puts, manually puts up the pins at

the bowling

alley.

I did not know that.

Yep.

Get that.

I just go ahead and just rub it.

Yep.

Well, I'm just showing my skills.

Yeah, you should finger bowling

finger bowling.

All right, buddy.

What do you have?

Well,

let's see here.

Your love line.

Love

line

today.

Okay.

Are you ready for this?

Thursday, October 8th, Phillip.

Love line.

I'll see if I can try it on June.

Darling, if loving you was a traffic violation,

I'd have my license suspended by lunchtime.

Oh boy.

Nice.

That should, that should pick something up.

Nice.

Yeah.

I should pick something

up.

Oh boy.

Yeah.

Yeah.

By the way, be careful out here on highway 14.

It's a, yes.

All of a sudden yesterday we couldn't turn left.

Yeah.

And you can't turn right or you can't turn left if you're going east or yeah.

East.

Yes.

You have to go down and.

to get to the radio station.

If

you're coming from Richland center, you got to do a UE at tractor supply and Taco Bell.

Come back.

And please be careful because when you do turn left there, there's signs there.

It's really hard to see the oncoming traffic.

Not very well thought out.

Well, no, and that kind of surprise, because we had guests coming in yesterday and all this, I didn't have time to alert them.

They're like, how do you get there?

Well,

I don't know.

Well, good luck.

Do you have a pole vault?

Exactly.

But you know, it's just like, really?

Yeah.

I guess we're not that important to have a driveling.

Well,

let's just keep in mind that it's supposed to be done by November.

So less than a month, maybe.

Yep.

We've struggled.

So here we go.

Here we go, man.

Have a great day and be kind, my friend.

Today is October 8th.

These are today's vital statistics.

Mary Waslik, 76 of Casanovia died Wednesday, September 30th at the Sock County Health Care Center in Reedsburg.

Visitation will be held Friday, October 9th from 4pm until 7pm at the Casanovia Chapel.

The Farber Funeral Home in Reedsburg is assisting the family.

Mary Waslik, 76 of Casanovia.

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

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, October 11th at the Boaz Community Center from 1 p.m.

until 3 p.m.

Todd A. Deckert, 59 of Richland Center.

Connie

Gene McHelry, 77, formerly of Richland Center, died Sunday, October 4th.

A funeral mass will be held Saturday, October 24th at 11 a.m.

at St.

Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Richland Center with visitation from 10 a.m.

until the time of mass at 11.

Friends and family are invited to join the family for a time of gathering and a meal immediately following the mass.

The family asks that memorials be directed in Connie's memory to continue the movement to end Alzheimer's.

The Clary Memorial Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Connie Jean McHenry 77, formerly of Richland Center.

Don Terry Winch, 83 of Mazamany died at home September 30th.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 10th at 1 p.m.

at the Curtis Street Bible Fellowship in Mazamany.

A celebration of life and lunch to follow at the church until 3 p.m.

The Richardson Stafford funeral home is assisting the family.

Don Terry Winch, 83 of Mazamany.

Carol Ann Michaelsberger, 95, a plane died October 4th.

A funeral mass will be held Monday, October 12th at St.

Luke's Catholic Church in Plain.

Visitation begins at 9 a.m.

with service at 11.30.

Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

The Richardson Stafford Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Memorials are appreciated in her name to St.

Luke's School or a local non-profit of your choice.

Carol Ann Michaelsberger, 95 of Plain.

And we have a birth announcement from the Richland Hospital.

A son, Maverick, was born to Shiana Hardy and Brandon Fertain.

Congratulations!

Good morning, everyone.

Ford WRCO News.

I'm Todd Copernall.

42 sunny degrees in Richland Center right now.

The forecast today says the high will be 68.

In the news this morning, Representative Derek Van Ordenen listed the eight of House Speaker Mike Johnson on the campaign trail in Sparta following visits from more than 10 administration officials, including former President Donald Trump.

and current President Donald Trump.

The appearance comes as Johnson and Van Orden seek to address criticism surrounding legislative efforts that impacted healthcare coverage and provided tax incentives for data centers and high earning individuals.

In response to the visit, candidate Rebecca Cook criticized Van Orden for relying on national political figures pointing to Speaker Johnson's past remarks and legislative record.

Cook emphasized that current policies have hurt local families, particularly regarding healthcare access, trade tariffs affecting farmers and foreign policy decisions.

Wisconsin manufacturers and commerce and BMO announced the top eight products advancing in the 11th annual coolest thing made in Wisconsin contest.

The top contenders include the 4800 XPC electric rope shovel made by Komatsu in Milwaukee, the gravely ZTHD Stealth 60 from Arons,

The smart privacy glass from Cardinal IG and Tomah, the meltaway candy bars made in Depeer, and the vertical turning centers manage a lot of cool stuff in Wisconsin.

These eight products that are left in the contest were determined through head-to-head matchups in Manufacturing Madness, the tournament portion of the contest, following an initial round of over 100 nominated products showcasing the state's $73.8 billion manufacturing industry.

Voting for the next round to determine the top four begins at 8 a.m.

Thursday October 8th and continues through 5 p.m.

Next Tuesday participants can cast one vote per day per email address at madeinwissmadeinwis.com with the ultimate winner crowned at WMC's business day event in Madison October 27th.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice has taken a firm stand against proposed federal changes to the Head Start program, joining a coalition of state attorneys general in opposing a rule change that could reshape early childhood education across the nation.

The proposed rollbacks target long-standing performance standards designed to ensure low-income children receive comprehensive health, nutritional, and educational support before entering elementary school.

Critics of the proposed HHS changes point to key provisions that would significantly cut administrative funding allocations, lower staff qualification thresholds, and introduce strict new instruction mandates.

Advocates emphasize that Head Start serves as a critical bridge for vulnerable families, providing vital access to early learning opportunities in communities facing severe child care shortages.

Governor Tony Evers has officially proclaimed October as FAFSA filing month across Wisconsin announced jointly by the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions and the Wisconsin Higher Educational AIDS Board.

This initiative aims to encourage students and families throughout the state to complete the free application for federal student aid for the upcoming 2027-28 academic year.

as early as possible.

Submitting the FAFSA is a critical initial step for securing post-secondary financial assistance.

The forum evaluates eligibility for various federal, state, and institutional financial aid resources, including need-based grants, scholarships, work-study options, and federal loans.

Additionally, many private scholarship organizations rely on FAFSA completion when making award decisions.

To assist families through the application process, College Goal Wisconsin is organizing a series of free virtual and in-person completion events during October.

State leaders, including the DFI secretary and the HEAB executive secretary, strongly advise applying early to meet deadlines and gain a clear understanding of available financial support for higher education.

Governor Tony Evers and leaders from the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation joined representatives from EMD Electronics to celebrate the grand opening of a new 38,000 square foot research and development center in Sheboygan Falls.

The facility represents part of a $200 million commitment to expand advanced semiconductor material manufacturing and development across Wisconsin, creating 44 high paying jobs in the region.

The state-of-the-art site features eight specialized laboratories designed for synthesis, scale-up, and technology transfer.

These labs enable EMD electronics to partner directly with clients to accelerate next-generation semiconductor materials from initial research to commercial production.

Designed with sustainability in mind, the facility targets LEED gold certification and utilizes geothermal

energy, heat pumps, energy recovery systems, and renewable power to minimize its environmental footprint.

In a decisive step to strengthen domestic food security and accelerate technological advancement, the United States Department of Agriculture has announced a $180 million seed sovereignty initiative spearheaded by Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins.

This major effort focuses on protecting and analyzing the immense repository of plant genetic materials housed within the Agricultural Research Service National Plant Germ Plasm System.

The system manages more than 600,000 crop accessions spanning over 16,000 plant species by deploying cutting-edge genetic sequencing technologies and artificial intelligence

Researchers plan to map these vast collections to reveal high-value traits.

This strategic analysis will allow American scientists to rapidly engineer crop varieties resistant to novel pests, severe climate conditions, and emerging agricultural diseases.

Beyond boosting crop resilience, the initiative addresses critical national security concerns.

As foreign competitors actively collect and sequence global seed genetics, the United States has faced a growing knowledge gap regarding its own public seed libraries.

Full sequencing of U.S.

germplasm will eliminate foreign dependencies and ensure American farmers maintain a distinct competitive edge on the global stage.

The MyVote Wisconsin website, myvote.wi.gov will be temporarily offline for scheduled routine maintenance and security updates starting at 5 p.m.

Friday, October 9th.

The outage is expected to last until 10 p.m.

that evening.

The Wisconsin Elections Commission has notified local clerks regarding the brief service disruption.

Officials noted that rapidly evolving security requirements and emerging risks necessitate more frequent system updates even as election dates approach.

During the maintenance window, visitors to the site will be greeted with a notification regarding the temporary outage.

Voters requiring immediate assistance during this time may contact their municipal clerk or the Wisconsin Elections Commission Help Desk.

No visible functional changes will be present once the website comes back online.

Wisconsin voters can continue to rely on my vote to register online

track their registration status, request absentee ballots, view sample ballots, look up polling places and obtain contact details for local election officials.

Agricultural health officials in Wisconsin have confirmed a new case of highly pathogenic avian influenza

affecting a backyard poultry flock in Racine County.

Following standard safety protocols, the affected birds were depopulated to prevent any entry into the commercial food supply.

The virus, which has persisted across North America since late 2021, poses significant risk to domestic birds due to its highly contagious and often fatal nature.

Transmission occurs through contact with infected poultry, wild bird droppings, or contaminated clothing and equipment.

In response, the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection advises all animal owners to enforce enhanced biosecurity protocols, such as routine sanitation, restricting site entry, keeping birds sheltered indoors, and isolating new animals for at least 30 days.

to manage potential outbreaks without imposing unnecessary restrictions.

That cap evaluates risk factors for backyard cases and may establish a 10 kilometer surveillance zone.

Producers are encouraged to use the department's online mapping tool to verify control boundaries.

Additionally, state law mandates that all livestock and poultry owners register their premises

to ensure swift communication during health emergencies.

Any suspected illness or elevated mortality in domestic species should be reported immediately through DATCAP's online resources.

Today's vital statistics are sponsored by Krause Monument.

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

Today is October 8th.

These are today's vital statistics.

Mary Waslik, 76 of Casanovia, died Wednesday, September 30 at the Sock County Health Care Center in Reedsburg.

A visitation will be held Friday, October 9 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 Casanovia.

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

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, October 11th, at the Boaz Community Center from 1 p.m.

until 3 p.m.

Todd A. Deckert, 59, of Richland Center.

Connie Jean Mackelry, 77, formerly of Richland Center, died Sunday, October 4th.

A funeral mass will be held Saturday, October 24th at 11 a.m.

at St.

Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Richland Center with visitation from 10 a.m.

until the time of mass at 11.

Friends and family are invited to join the family for a time of gathering and a meal immediately following mass.

The family asked that memorials be directed in Connie's memory to continue the movement to end Alzheimer's.

The Clary Memorial Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Connie is survived by her children, Tracy McElrie, Emily and Jason Willoughby, and Joel and Laura McElrie.

Six grandchildren, her brother, Thomas and Nancy Hawks, one niece and one nephew.

Connie Jean McElrie.

77, formerly of Richland Center.

Don Terry Winch, 83 of Mesomani died at home September 30th.

A memorial service will be held Saturday, October 10th at 1 p.m.

at the Curtis Street Bible Fellowship in Mesomani.

A celebration of life and lunch to follow at the church until 3 p.m.

the Richardson Stafford funeral home is assisting the family.

Don is survived by his wife Deborah, his daughters Sarah Winch and Carrie and Kent MacArthur, his stepchildren Amanda Miller and Lee Eggleston, Brandon and Sarah Miller, Ryan Andretti and Dana Bladel, his brothers Marvin Winch and Tom and Sybil Winch, father-in-law Gary Chitwood, sister-in-law Brenda Wallace, one granddaughter, two step-grandchildren, several nieces and nephews, and many friends.

Don Terry Wynch, 83 of Maisamany.

Carol Ann Michaelsberger, 95 of Plain, died October 4th.

A funeral mass will be held Monday, October 12th at St.

Luke's Catholic Church in Plain.

Visitation begins at 9 a.m.

with service at 11.30 a.m.

Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

The Richardson Stafford funeral home is assisting the family.

Memorials are appreciated in her name to St.

Luke's School or a local non-profit of your choice.

Carol is survived by her daughters Jane and Tim Prouty, Ruth and Fred Schreiner, and Mary and Bernie Andrews.

Her sons, Jeffrey and Mary Michaelsberger, Rory and Tracy Michaelsberger, and Michael and Lori Michaelsberger.

Her sisters, Mary Jane Hull and Liz Torgerson.

Brother-in-law John and Josie Michaelsberger and sisters-in-law Yvonne Legal and Pearl Michaelsberger.

15 grandchildren, many great-grandchildren.

Carol Ann Michaelsberger, 95 of Plain.

And we have a birth announcement from the Richland Hospital, a son, Maverick Wayne, born to Shiana Hardy and Brandon Vertain.

Congratulations!

Welcome back to the news at noon in the case of city of richland center v richland county at all on wednesday october 7th judge daniel g wood of adams county found in favor of the city of richland center in its writ of mandamus petition against richland county the court determined that the city had met its legal burden

prompting Judge Wood to sign the writ, which will now be served on the respondents.

Richland County will have 14 days following service to either accept the city's reimbursement demand or contest the writ in court.

The dispute centers around county funding for the maintenance of 1,495 veterans graves across Bowen Cemetery and Richland Center Cemetery for the period spanning July 1st, 2025 to June 30th, 2026.

Wisconsin Statute 45.85 Chapter 2 mandates that municipalities submit grave reporting and locations to the county clerk by September 1st annually.

However, because the City of Richland Center delivered its documentation on September 14th, County Clerk Jeffrey Harrison initially denied the $17,859.83 reimbursement request due to the missed deadline, noting that no extensions were permitted and pointing to 2027 for the next eligibility cycle.

In response to the denial, the city filed its petition in Richland County Circuit Court on October 1st with Richland County,

The Board of Supervisors Chair Carrie Severson and Clerk Jeffrey Harrison, named as respondents.

Severson and Harrison are named strictly based on their official capacities.

The city maintained that the September 1st statutory deadline is directory rather than mandatory, arguing that procedural delays should not invalidate the county's core legal obligation to cover veterans' grave care costs.

particularly since the submission contained all the necessary data and presented no prejudice to the county.

A writ of mandamus, mandamus being Latin for we command, is an extraordinary court order that compels a government official, public agency, corporation or lower court to perform a mandatory duty required by law.

Authorities in Tomah have identified the suspect in an October 6th attempted homicide as 38 year old Derek Johnson of Rockford, Illinois.

According to the Tomah Police Department, Johnson was taken into custody following the incident.

Investigators discovered that Johnson had an active full extradition warrant through the Illinois Department of Corrections, which carried armed and dangerous caution indicators.

The police department noted that the investigation into the attempted homicide remains ongoing and further updates along with formal charges will be provided as more details become available.

The Vernon Crawford chapter of the Wisconsin Farmers Union will hold a candidate town hall and harvest dinner Friday from 5 until 8 p.m.

at the Gays Mills Community Commerce Center.

The Nonpartisan Informational Forum brings together candidates running for Wisconsin's 3rd Congressional District, 17th Senate District, 49th Assembly District, and 96th Assembly District to discuss key agricultural and rural policy issues.

Doors open at 4.45 p.m.

with the evening commencing at 5 p.m.

with a local harvest dinner catered by maybe Lately's Restaurant.

Dinner tickets are available for $10 for Wisconsin Farmers Union members and $40 for non-members.

While attendees can purchase tickets at the door or register in advance, space remains limited.

Following the dinner, the Town Hall program will run from 6 o'clock until 8 p.m., providing candidates an opportunity to present their platforms and address questions from both the Vernon Crawford Farmers Union and audience members.

As an educational forum hosted by a 501C3 organization, all candidate invitations and discussions will center strictly on matters essential to local farmers, rural residents, and the broader community.

Following severe storms and tornadoes July 27,

FEMA announced that federal disaster assistance is now available to support state and local recovery efforts in Wisconsin.

The Presidential Declaration unlocks federal funding for affected residents across forest, out of gamey, virus, and Winnebago counties.

Eligible individuals and families can access grants for temporary housing and essential home repairs

as well as low-cost loans to cover uninsured property losses.

Residents with disaster-related losses are advised to file insurance claims before applying for federal relief.

Applications for assistance can be submitted online at disasterassistance.gov through the FEMA mobile app or by phone at 800-621-3362.

In addition to individual assistance, public assistance funding is being provided on a cost sharing basis to state, tribal and local government entities as well as eligible private non-profit organizations in Vilas and Winnebago counties for emergency work and facility repairs.

Hanna Penn has been appointed as the federal coordinating officer to oversee recovery operations with further designations possible as additional damage assessments are completed.

Agricultural health officials in Wisconsin have confirmed a new case of highly pathogenic avian influenza affecting a backyard poultry flock in Racine County.

Following standard safety protocols, the affected birds were depopulated to prevent any entry into the commercial food supply.

The virus, which has persisted across North America since late 2021,

poses significant risks to domestic birds due to its highly contagious and often fatal nature.

Transmission occurs through contact with infected poultry, wild bird droppings or contaminated clothing and equipment.

In response, the Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection advises all animal owners to enforce enhanced biosecurity protocols.

such as routine sanitation, restricting site entry, keeping birds sheltered indoors, and isolating new animals for at least 30 days.

To manage potential outbreaks without imposing unnecessary restrictions, DatCap evaluates risk factors for backyard cases and may establish a 10-kilometer surveillance zone.

Producers are encouraged to use the department's online mapping tool to verify control boundaries.

Additionally, state law mandates that all livestock and poultry owners register their premises to ensure swift communication during health emergencies.

Any suspected illness or elevated mortality in domestic

species should be reported immediately through DATCAP's online resources.

Representative Derek Van Orden enlisted the aid of House Speaker Mike Johnson on the campaign trail in Sparta following visits from more than 10 administration officials, including President Donald Trump.

The appearance comes as Johnson and Van Orden seek to address criticism surrounding legislative efforts that impacted healthcare coverage and provided tax incentives for data centers and high-earning individuals.

In response to the visit, candidate Rebecca Cook criticized Van Orden for relying on national political figures pointing to Speaker Johnson's past remarks and legislative record.

Cook emphasized that current policies have hurt local families, particularly regarding health care access, trade tariffs affecting farmers, and foreign policy decisions.

Wisconsin manufacturers and commerce and BMO announced the top eight products advancing in the 11th annual coolest thing made in Wisconsin Contest.

The top contenders include the electric robe shovel made by Komatsu in Milwaukee,

The ZTHD Stealth 60 from Aaron's company.

The Smart Privacy Glass from Cardinal IG and Tomah.

Melt away candy bars made into pier.

Joining them are Giddings and Lewis Vertical Turning Centers.

And the Aspects Printed Wall Protection, made in Muskego, also custom pool cues.

and Small Arms Fire Control, the M157 Small Arms Fire Control.

These eight products were determined through head-to-head matchups in manufacturing madness, the tournament portion of the contest.

Following an initial round of over 100 nominated products showcasing the state's $73.8 billion manufacturing industry.

Voting for the next round to determine the top four begins at 8 a.m.

today and continues through 5 p.m.

Tuesday.

Participants can cast one vote per day per email address at madeinwestmadeinwis.com with the ultimate winner crowned at WMC's business day event in Madison, October 27th.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice has taken a firm stand against proposed federal changes to the Head Start program, joining a coalition of state attorneys general in opposing a rule change that could reshape early childhood education across the nation.

The proposed rollbacks target long-standing performance standards designed to ensure low-income children receive comprehensive health, nutritional, and educational support before entering elementary school.

Critics of the proposed HHS changes point to key provisions that would significantly cut administrative funding allocations, lower staff qualification thresholds, and introduce strict new instruction mandates.

Advocates emphasize that Head Start serves as a critical bridge for vulnerable families, providing vital access to early learning opportunities in communities facing severe childcare shortages.

As some Wisconsin communities drop contracts with licensed plate reader company Flock Safety, experts are raising concerns about the future of surveillance technology.

Texas Christian University criminal justice professor.

Professor Johnny Naan says license plate readers could eventually be linked with artificial intelligence, facial recognition and automated drone technology, creating powerful tracking networks.

Meanwhile, researcher Steven Keener of Christopher Newport University says studies show the cameras are now more heavily concentrated in higher poverty and predominantly black neighborhoods.

Both experts say local policymakers will play a key role in setting limits and oversight.

as the technology continues to evolve.

Domestic violence deaths remain high in Wisconsin.

A new report from End Domestic Abuse Wisconsin shows 82 people died in domestic violence related homicides in 2025, down from a record 99 deaths the year before.

Milwaukee County accounted for 42 of those fatalities, about half of the statewide total.

According to the report, men committed 86% of the homicides,

Firearms were used in nearly three quarters of the deaths.

Advocates note Wisconsin saw 40 to 50 domestic violence deaths annually a decade ago, highlighting how elevated the death toll has increased across the state.

Minor Hill Trails Park, also referred to as Tower Hill, overlooks the city of Richland Center with many panoramic pictures taken historically.

And now for a Richland County Historical Society history moment.

Here's the rest of the story.

According to Richland Center, government parks and rec pages Minor Hill Trails Park featured in the achy breaky newsletter of April 2016 volume number eight issue number one.

You can find that on our website.

Minor Hill Trails Park, known as Tower Hill, has walking and hiking trails that encompass 50 acres of scenic wonder.

It's revealed along that trail that wanders past visibly five overlooks.

It's through the woods, through an open meadow, and past an old quarry site.

Travel to the top of the bluff with a panoramic view of the city of Richland Center.

Surrounding is the countryside spreading out in the valley below.

All trails overlook what are now railed.

The trails are complete with signs and picnic areas.

There are six trails to choose from ranging from one and a fifth mile to four and a fifth mile distances.

Strickland Trail, the one fifth of a mile, begins at the base of Strickland Park with parking and playground equipment located near the hospital.

You can also park and connect with Tower Drive Trail if you follow Court Street East.

Here and there along the way, hikers will find resting and picnic spots for a leisurely pause on the trails.

This route has a trail's head located at Court Street, connecting Pearl Street and Ithaca Road.

However, parking is limited as each of those locations are thereabouts.

All the trails on what would be a website can be found on Tower Drive Trail and the Northwoods Trail.

And how about those winter months?

Well, it won't take long before there's snowshoeing in the Forest Trail.

A Facebook post provides a bit of a more historical detail to what is the abandoned mine on the top of the hill.

It's open to the public.

It's a walking trail and it's an area that you can get to even now.

The main trail is graveled.

It's at the top of what would be the cell towers as you look at the east side of the city.

And another has what would be the city water reservoir.

The mine park is abandoned.

It's open as a mine, but there's no machinery left.

It was thought to be used for lead ore.

And then there's Strickland Park.

It's located at the base of that minor hill trail to the west on 391 North Pearl Street nestled in the small East neighborhood near the Richland Hospital and Medical Center.

Listen in three weeks to a history moment on October of 2026 for Judge David Strickland.

Listen next week for the history of Richland County about McGrew.

It was a ghost town in a town of

Marshall.

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

Members of the Historical Society enjoy reminiscing with the Aki Breaky newsletter.

A strong membership base keeps the Historical Society viable and active by promoting the study and appreciation of local history, the sponsorship of programs devoted to local history, and the maintenance and access to the Aki School Museum.

Annual memberships are just $10 for an individual or family, $20 for a business, or $100 for a lifetime individual or family membership.

Memberships can be mailed to Richland County Historical Society, 213 South Central Avenue, apartment number 1, Richland Center, Wisconsin 53581.

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

Thank you, as always, Ken Thied.

Get into the Halloween spirit with a free showing of the legendary 1922 silent vampire film, Nosferatu, at the City Auditorium Friday, October 30th.

Moviegoers age 14 and older who arrive in costume can enter a special costume contest prior to the film.

Contest registration begins at 6.15pm with prizes awarded after the movie in two distinct categories, scariest and most creative.

Concessions will be available for purchase throughout the event.

The U.S.

Department of Agriculture Rural Development

has awarded a $749,400 distance learning and telemedicine grant to Cooperative Educational Service Agency 10, CESA 10, in Chippewa Falls.

Announced by Wisconsin State Director Andrew C. Iverson, the investment directly supports educational access across 12 counties.

Through CISA-10's Distance Learning Consortium, the grant will upgrade aging distance learning infrastructure to bridge educational gaps.

Modernizing these systems enables participating districts to address local teacher shortages and offer an expanded curriculum, including advanced placement, post-secondary, career and technical education, and college preparatory coursework.

In rural Wisconsin, distance learning isn't a luxury.

It is a vital tool to ensure our students get an equal shot at success and sees a 10 distance learning operations manager, Jamie Kampf.

Securing this USDA Distance Learning and Telemedicine grant allows us to replace failing infrastructure and level the playing field for over 14,000 students across our member districts.

This funding will reduce geographic barriers and open doors to pathways.

The Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction and the Wisconsin Department of Financial Institutions in partnership with the Governor's Council on Financial Literacy and Capability announced today they have awarded $296,000 to schools and community-based organizations across the state to enhance personal financial literacy education.

A total of 29 financial literacy innovation grants were awarded to local institutions.

Funding for the program is provided by the DFI through settlement dollars, designated for financial education initiatives.

State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly emphasized the broader impact of the funding, noting that financial literacy equips students with essential practical skills to navigate life after graduation.

The grant initiative directly supports classroom implementation of the Wisconsin Standards for Personal Financial Literacy and helps school districts align with Wisconsin Act 60.

This law mandates a half-credit personal financial literacy course

for a high school graduation, starting with the class of 2028.

In addition to student instruction, many recipient organizations plan to engage parents and community members through family-focused financial wellness events, fostering multi-generational financial capability.

DFI Secretary Wendy K. Baumann commended local educators and partners for introducing creative learning models that prepare young adults for sound decision-making.

As the only flying mammals on Earth, bats

play an extraordinary and vital role in maintaining healthy ecosystems across the globe.

Beyond their unique nature, these nocturnal creatures provide irreplaceable environmental, economic, and public health benefits.

Insect-eating bats such as natural pests act as natural pest controllers, consuming vast quantities of agricultural pests each night, and saving farmers and forest owners billions of dollars annually.

In Wisconsin, bat populations include eight distinct species, though four are state threatened, including the federally endangered northern long-eared bat, and another is listed as a species of special concern.

The primary threat facing Wisconsin's hibernating bats is White Nose Syndrome, a devastating fungal disease that disrupts their winter hibernation, depleting their critical energy stores before spring insect supplies arrive.

Although population numbers plummeted following the disease's arrival in 2014, recent survey counts bring hope, showing encouraging signs of recovery among little brown bats.

at key hibernation sites, because a handful of historic mines serve as the winter shelter for a significant portion of the nation's Little Brown Bat population.

Protecting these habitats during winter is essential to keeping local insect populations in check every summer.

Every homeowner and community member can take actionable steps to safeguard backyard bats and foster safer environments.

Building and mounting bat houses provides crucial shelter while planting native vegetation creates foundational support for local food chains.

Landowners can eliminate burdock plants to prevent bats from becoming dangerously entangled, avoid harmful chemical pesticides and herbicides, and keep unused buckets flipped upside down in basements or outbuildings to prevent accidental trapping.

Wisconsin in the Autumn offers a breathtaking display of vibrant fall foliage rolling hills and charming countryside views.

One of the most enchanting ways to experience this seasonal transformation is by taking a scenic journey on one of the state's historic heritage railways.

Riding a vintage train allows travelers to relax and take in the natural beauty from classic passenger cars or open-air observation platforms.

whether you're looking for family-friendly pumpkin excursion, romantic dinner trains, or relaxed tours through colorful state parks and river valleys, Wisconsin's fall rail adventures offer something unforgettable for every traveler.

Key historic railways across the state include the Mid-Continent Railway and North Freedom, Riverside and Great Northern Railway in Wisconsin-Dell, Osceola and St.

Croix Valley Railway in Osceola, and the Wisconsin

Northern Railroad in Trago and the East Troy Electric Railroad.

It's time for the Pine River Report and we're joined by Marty Richards, a steam member of the community and of course from Richland Area Tourism and the Pine River expert that he is.

How are things on the river, Marty?

Well, if you're an adventurer and you wondered what it was like for Lewis and Clark to discover our area, right now the Pine River is your thing.

Which, I mean, I make that sound worse than it really is.

I would just say that pretty much on the pine anywhere you go, understand that you are probably going to have to, well, you are.

You're going to have to do a little bit of a portage at some point.

And we've had some high water here just in the last couple of weeks.

And so that changes things.

We know that we've had some blockages, but we know

on most of those uh for those you know and I mentioned this last week for those who are kayaking this time of year because it gets a little cooler uh and even cool uh downright cool um some most days it it's going to be folks who are experienced kayakers if it's your first time out I would suggest that maybe you don't uh go right now this time of year however what I would say is if you're an experienced kayaker

It could be a real cool experience.

You can go out kayaking.

That stretch from Rockbridge down to County SR and Steamboat Rock, it has some minor difficulties you would need to navigate around, but you may be able to stay in the kayak most of the way there.

But then anywhere south of that, we did have a crew go from County SR down to Bowlands Mill, and they had two places that they had to

to portage and one of them is very difficult because of the high banks.

But then also from Bowlands Mill down to Millpond Park, that's a pretty tough area right now.

There are three pretty major blockages.

Again, the banks aren't quite as high through there.

You can portage around those, but it's work.

So just understand it's a real adventure.

If you do, if you decide you're going to go, I would encourage you give 13 times RC a phone call

608-608-0932.

You'll also find their, excuse me, their contact information on the Greater Richland Tourism website.

Or you can go to social media and Facebook and you'll find 13 times RC there as well.

And if you do need some outfitting service or you want information on the river, they're good folks to get a hold of for that.

Lots going on this weekend.

We had Riley and we had Lacey on with us earlier today about Hub City diesel truck pull.

That's going on underway actually tomorrow, but that's a big thing.

You've talked about it before, Marty.

How many that brings to the community?

Yeah, I was having this discussion on social media with a couple of folks because they kind of made the point from a video we put out that, yes, this brings a lot of energy to the area.

And it also brings a lot of people.

So the Hub City Dirt Grades events bring, so they have a May event and they have this October event.

And each one of those events individually are the highest draw by person.

So the number of people that come to our area from outside of the area, those events individually.

draw more than any other event that we have.

It's bigger than the county fair, bigger than the rodeo, bigger than anything else.

We know last this past spring that their hub city dirt drag event, which is the smaller of the two events drew individually 1800 unique cell phones to the area.

And we can see that the hub city diesel challenge, which is this weekend that

draws more than even that event and and they by white martin draw more new people to our area than any other event so this is this is a huge weekend for visitors to the area um yet they Friday they've got huge uh huge they got a poll which is unique they haven't done truck polls before they've always done uh on dyno and then on the drag and they kind of

combine those scores to see who won.

Well, now they put a poll into it as well on Friday.

So the Friday event is growing.

That's going to have more going on than typically.

But they also have their show and shine.

And they have just a bunch of other things going on.

And it really draws from about a five, six, eight area we're finding.

So that's a big deal.

It's a real big bonus for us this time of year, if you think back.

just three, four years ago, there really wasn't a ton going on this weekend.

It kind of was like, Hey, we had, we had the center color fest weekend and then things tailed off the rest of the way.

Well, now we've got this, which is one of our probably our biggest single weekend of the year.

And then we got pumpkin fest coming up, which that's coming in a couple of weeks.

And that's added some new events this year that's sure to draw more people.

So, so yeah, I

Again, for the Hub City Diesel Challenge for this weekend, I'd say head out to greaterripsontourism.com.

Check our website.

You'll see it right away there with all the link to get to that information.

Oakwood Fruit Farms, again, this is a good weekend.

The fall colors are popping out.

We're about 60%, I'd say, towards peak.

Either next weekend or the week after, we're going to hit our peak for colors, and that gets us in the mood.

to head to Oakwood Fruit Farms, and they're open every day, nine to five, just a really cool fall experience.

I'd also encourage that folks with families specifically, I'd go to Chicken Ridge Farm, they really do a nice job of having activities for kids.

Pick your own pumpkin patch, they got corn maze, they've got multiple other things going on along with food for purchase, and just a neat fall experience where you can take the kids out.

Burn some energy.

I, as a grandpa, I don't know about you Phil, but as a grandpa, I've hooked for a ways now.

Okay, how can I burn the energy out of these guys for a little bit?

And chicken-rich farms for kids is just a great time.

I also mentioned here coming up on Friday, the 80 German warehouse has live music with the John Harbauer.

They kind of changed their hours a little bit.

They're from four to eight thirty.

So at the 80 German warehouse, at their lounge, the 80 lounge,

you can expect some live music here on Friday.

And then something else I'd better mention, English Prairie Distillery in Muscaday is having their Oktoberfest celebration Saturday, October 10th, so coming up this Saturday.

And not only will they have their cocktails and their mocktails that you can always enjoy, they also will have a couple of beers on tap, so they'll really get in in the flavor of the German Oktoberfest celebration.

down at english prairie distillery and that's on saturday so those are kind of the big events uh the unique experiences happening uh this weekend here in the greater richland area

awesome and while you're taking a cruise looking at the colors uh maybe you can head through lime ridge beautiful drive these days and check out the big marty the petite terry and everything they have on the menu right

well i think the big marty may have run its course the big messy marty as i was told um may have run its course because

The tomatoes kind of fell off on them, but don't fear, Phil.

They've got other stuff that I endorse.

So we always talk about the Preydy fish fry.

Really encourage folks to go check out one of, I'll argue one of the best fish fries in the area because they're actual, a full filet or a line of fish.

I've had an experience where I cooked someone and they're always, I need to order the second play.

One piece won't do it.

And I kind of warn them, but they get the second piece and they struggle to finish because it's a lot of fish.

It's done very well.

And the ambiance and the fun there is strong as well.

And then this is the Saturday, October 10th.

They will have wood-fired pizzas, one of my favorites as well.

So they're going to have it October 10th.

And they always have a couple of traditional ones.

We talk about the menu a little bit.

They always have a couple of traditional flavors, but they also always have some unique ones.

We'll see.

I don't have the menu for this weekend, but I have them that have mandarin oranges on them.

They'll have a pesto, which that's not horribly unique.

Italian Neapolitan pizzas, you'll find they'll have pesto on it instead of a red sauce.

And they usually have an Alfredo or something, but they're usually unique so that people with wide-ranging tastes, not just folks like me who are a little old and stodgy with traditional, I think pizza needs to have red sauce, meat, and maybe a couple vegetables on it.

But for those with the more wide-ranging taste or flavor of pizza, there's always something for everybody.

Sounds good, Marty.

We'll talk to you again next week with the Pine River Report.

That sounds good Phil, we'll see you then.

Marty Richards joining us here and get out and about and see some of these great events in Southwest Wisconsin this weekend.

Today's vital statistics are sponsored by Crowsie Monument.

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

Today is October 8th.

These are today's vital statistics.

Mary Waslik, 76 of Casanovia, died Wednesday, September 30th at the Salk County Health Care Center in Reedsburg.

A visitation 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 Wastlik, 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 Todd

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

A celebration of life will be held Sunday, October 11, at the Boaz Community Center, from 1 p.m.

until 3 p.m.

Todd A. Deckert, 59 of Richland Center.

Connie

Gene McElrie, 77, formerly of Richland Center, died Sunday, October 4th.

A funeral mass will be held Saturday, October 24th at 11 a.m.

at St.

Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Richland Center, with visitation from 10 a.m.

until the time of mass at 11.

Friends and family are invited to join the family for a time of gathering and a meal immediately following mass.

The family asks that memorials be directed in Connie's memory to continue the movement to end Alzheimer's.

The Clary Memorial Funeral Home is assisting the family with arrangements.

Connie Jean Mechlerie, 77, formerly of Richland Center.

Don Terry Winch 83 of Maisa Mani died at home September 30th a memorial service will be held Saturday October 10th at 1 p.m.

At the Curtis Street Bible Fellowship in Maisa Mani a celebration of life and lunch to follow at the church until 3 p.m.

The Richardson Stafford funeral home is assisting the family Don Terry

Wynch, 83 of Maisamany.

Carol Ann Michaelsberger, 95 of Plain, died October 4th.

A funeral mass will be held Monday, October 12th at St.

Luke's Catholic Church in Plain.

Visitation begins at 9 a.m.

with service at 11.30.

Burial will follow in the church cemetery.

The Richardson Stafford Funeral Home is assisting the family.

Memorials are appreciated in her name to St.

Luke's School or a local non-profit of your choice.

Carol Ann Michaelsberger, 95 of Plain.

And in birth news from the Richland Hospital, a son was born, Maverick Wayne to Shiana Hardy and Brandon Vertain.

Congratulations!

This concludes today's vital statistics.

Good evening, everyone, for WRCO News.

I'm Todd Copernall.

In the case of City of Richland Center v. Richland County at all on Wednesday, October 7th, Judge Daniel G. Wood of Adams County found in favor of the City of Richland Center in its writ of mandamus petition against Richland County.

The court determined that the city had met its legal burden

prompting Judge Wood to sign the writ, which will now be served on the respondents.

Richland County will have 14 days following service to either accept the city's reimbursement request or can test the writ in court.

The dispute centers around county funding for the maintenance of 1495 veterans graves across Bowen Cemetery and Richland Center Cemetery for the period spanning July 1st, 2025 to June 30th, 2020.

2026, Wisconsin Statute 45.85 Chapter 2 mandates that municipalities submit grave reporting and locations to the county clerk by September 1st annually.

However, because the City of Richland Center delivered its documentation September 14th, County Clerk Jeffrey Harrison initially denied the $17,859.83 reimbursement request

due to the missed deadline, noting that no extensions were permitted and pointing to 2027 for the next eligibility cycle.

In response to the denial, the city filed its petition in Richland County Circuit Court on October 1st with Richland County Board of Supervisors Chair Kerry Severson and Clerk Jeffrey Harrison, named as respondents.

Severson and Harrison are named strictly based on their official capacities.

The city maintained that the September 1st statutory deadline is directory rather than mandatory, arguing that procedural delays should not invalidate the county's core legal obligation to cover veterans' grave care costs, particularly since the submission contained all necessary data and presented no prejudice to the county.

A writ of mandamus, Latin for we command,

is an extraordinary court order that compels a government official, public agency, corporation, or lower court to perform a mandatory duty required by law.

Richland Center Police Chief Billy Jones reports the Richland Center Police Department has received some recent concerns about downtown parking so they wanted to give everyone a friendly heads up.

before they start writing tickets.

Over the past several months due to staffing changes and other demands on our officers, two-hour parking limits in the downtown area have not been checked on a daily basis.

Officers have continued to address parking violations when they were observed, randomly checked, or when complaints were received.

Beginning Monday, October 12th, our CPD will be stepping up enforcement of the posted two-hour parking limits throughout downtown Richland Center.

If you or someone you know has gotten a little comfortable taking advantage of the limited enforcement in certain areas, now is a good time to reconsider those parking habits.

The goal is not to make anyone's day more difficult.

The two-hour limits are there to help make sure customers, visitors, residents, and people who need access to downtown businesses and services have a fair opportunity to find a parking space.

So before you leave your vehicle downtown for the day, take a quick look at the signs and remember the two-hour limit.

A little parking courtesy goes a long way in keeping downtown accessible for everyone.

Thank you for your cooperation and for helping us keep downtown Richland Center moving.

That from Richland Center Police Chief Billy Jones.

A two-vehicle collision led to a secondary crash that injured a law enforcement officer in Dodge County

this morning.

Emergency responders were dispatched around 6.58 a.m.

to a serious crash at the intersection of State Highway 16 and 60 and County Road BB in the town of Elba.