It's Tuesday's Roundup!
Hank's got the answers Phil's got the guesses and somehow
we've
got a show play along and see if you can beat Phil which statistically speaking You probably can't Tuesday's roundup where the questions are tough and Phil makes them tougher It's time for the roundup
How you doing, young man?
Not bad there, brother.
You know what?
I got promoted today, didn't I?
Did you?
Yeah, the assistant operations.
Are you, are you assistant?
Yeah, you're assistant to the assistant.
Yes.
And I'm the general manager.
So I don't know.
I'm
like,
assistant to the assistant underneath you.
And we only have
three employees.
Right.
That's weird.
Yeah, you're
getting there.
Appreciate it.
How you been, buddy?
Not bad, brother.
Brewers
win, brewers win.
Now, wasn't that something?
Isn't that amazing?
Yeah, that
is.
And
I really like going to LA 2 and 0.
Yeah, I do too.
Still nervous, but you know, uh, but they are the true definition of team
gritty.
Yes.
Gritty.
Yes.
But they don't care who gets the
accolades and they don't care.
They just play.
Everybody's had a part of it.
The relief, relief pitching is just
amazing.
I was talking to the chain gang last night and I were granted.
They just, they're just, it's unreal.
Yeah.
Exactly.
So
got a good thing going.
Yeah, it's, it's impressive how they, how they just grid it out, grid, they never stop.
They never stop being behind doesn't, doesn't phase them,
phase them at all.
No, it doesn't.
So, and they've been behind both games.
Is that right?
Yes.
At least a run at least by a run.
Yeah.
Yeah.
Because I turned it on yesterday.
It was on the bottom of the first is like one and nothing's going already.
I know that I just had early on, they had base runners quite often, but they only had what three or four hits, three hits.
That's in the first two innings after the relievers came in.
They scoreless for what five innings I think it was with the relief pitching.
Yeah, they, but they didn't, they didn't get a hit after.
I can't remember what, what the anyone was, but very impressive.
Yeah.
Yeah.
Yeah,
another
NFL game goes the overtime.
Yeah,
that was exciting
too.
They needed to change NFL rule over time.
You
think so?
Mm-hmm Would you like to see
go what would I
like to see?
Yeah, I'd like to see the old high school Arkansas high school rule, which is this first and goal at the 10 yard line
Well, that's what Wisconsin used to do that.
Yeah, I love that But now it's first and 10 at the 25 right like the college level, but yeah, I like the first and 10
at the goal at the, at the 10 yard line, you got four players to get it in.
Yeah, I always liked that too.
I like that better than the current high school rules.
You can still get a first down, right?
From the 25 and then get two of them actually.
Yeah, you can get two of them.
I'd rather just start at the 10 and whoever
goes.
And there are
not over times are called innings.
Right.
Extra innings.
You can try to, a field goal on first down a few hundred percent and over time.
So
if you
kicked four field goals, can you kick four?
No.
No.
Just, just testing your knowledge there.
Duh.
No.
Yeah.
So yeah.
So we have some, uh, today's Quizzie Pude.
That's right.
Yeah.
And I have a couple, but your first question, Phillip, is what is the most frequent reason for calling them?
You never call in, but if you called in, have you ever called into work?
Mom, I'm not coming into work.
Uh, no, have you ever called in?
No,
besides COVID.
Yeah, that
was,
yeah, that's the only time I ever have.
Yeah.
What was, uh, you ever heard anybody calling in sick for a, like a crazy reason?
I'm trying to think, um, we had one gentleman that was, I remember this is years ago that used to, you know, more frequently would, would call in and one time called and said, uh, it was too snowy that he couldn't come in and, uh, Ron said, I'll be out to get you in 20 minutes.
Did he say he's coming in then?
He got him.
No, he went and picked him up.
So
was it snowy?
Yeah, it was snowy.
I'll give him that,
but
everybody else made it.
Oh,
well,
one to work brittle.
Was he
Jim?
I remember, I can't remember what year it was, but do you remember the snow emerges?
So we had the last one.
Um, I was working at the prison and pretty sheen and living in basketball and Henry doesn't call in sick.
I don't, I don't, Henry made it to work.
Yeah, me and six others out of, I don't know, 40 something people, everybody in the town of priority sheen called in sick.
And they're right in the record in snow.
It's called in snow.
Yeah.
So yeah.
Oh, I made it ended up working 20 hours, but I made it.
Good for you.
Dumb choice.
That Henry is working riddle.
Yeah, he is.
You might be from Arkansas.
Phillip, if your savings account has a slot in the top of it.
There you go.
Well, the old piggy bank.
Or
the old culligan jar.
Culligan jar.
Yeah.
Yeah, I have a log cabin maple syrup.
Do you really?
That had the lid that you could slit open and then, yes.
I have the old colligan.
I think we have, is that a glass one?
I can't remember.
I have a glass one somewhere.
Yeah, but
yeah.
Cash it in, man.
Now save the pennies.
Those pennies.
They're rare, maybe.
They are rare.
All right, buddy.
Today's quiz day is almost on anything.
It's October 13th.
Yep.
And you're good?
I am.
I have my name.
And you got your name?
Philip.
Okay.
Let's see here.
Number one.
You ready?
Yes.
Which U.S.
state produces the most pumpkins by weights?
Is it Wisconsin, California, Illinois, or Pennsylvania?
All right.
Number two, approximately how many pounds of candy does the average American eat in a year, Phil?
Some eat more than others.
Is it three pounds?
seven pounds, 15 pounds, or 25 pounds.
Okay.
All right.
Number three, which of the following was designated?
Which of the following was designated as Wisconsin's official state rock in 1971?
Is it Galena, Limestone, Red Granite, or Sandstone?
Number four,
What is a group of kangaroos called Philip?
I
should
know
this.
I think I've had it
before.
Is it a bounce, a troop, a pounce, or a kick?
A bounce, a troop, a pounce, a pouch, or a kick?
Okay.
Number five.
What was a real product, Philip?
Oh boy.
Tiny finger.
tiny hands, finger puppets, chicken nugget bookmarks or Bluetooth cash roll dish.
All right.
Number six, can a team score just one point on a safety?
Is it A, never?
B, during a try after a touchdown or C, only in overtime or D, only in college football?
All right.
All right.
Number seven.
What percentage of internet users state they watch short form videos like tiktok real tiktok reels are shorts every single week.
All right.
Is it around 30% around 55% over 85% are under 15%
All right.
Number eight, which university unofficial mascot is famously a tree?
Hmm.
Is it Stanford, Oregon State, Colorado, or Washington?
Is it Stanford, Oregon State, Colorado, or Washington?
Okay.
Number nine, almost everyone knows about the chicken, Phillip, who lived for 18 months without a head.
Remember that?
Oh yeah, I think I heard that.
That's unbelievable.
And the really amazing part, what was the chicken's name?
Oh boy.
I dug deep, my man.
I guess you did.
All right.
Is it Lucky Larry, Miracle Mike, Headless Harry, or Crazy Cluck?
Oh boy.
I made three of those names up.
I bet you did.
I did.
Speckled Pete wasn't one of them.
Speckled Pete should have put speckled Pete on there.
Number 10.
A cluster of 10 to 20 bananas is called what?
What?
A cluster of 10 to 20 bananas is called what?
Is it a cluster, a hand, a bunch, or a bundle?
All right.
Woo.
There's some crazy ones.
There are some
weird
ones.
Yeah.
You're welcome.
All right.
What do you think, buddy?
I think I'm going to get six.
Really?
That's because the
lowest you've
ever
got
with me.
Oh, I don't think so.
Oh, yes.
You've never had one.
I keep track.
All right.
Number one.
Which U.S.
state produces the most pumpkins by weight?
Is it Wisconsin, California, Illinois, or Pennsylvania?
California?
Nope.
It's Illinois.
I
almost went wrong.
Illinois is which is surprising because you think Wisconsin would win.
We've got enough people growing pumpkins big enough to need their own zip code down there.
Interesting.
Number two, approximately how many pounds of candy does the average American eat in a year?
I have seven.
It is seven pounds.
Seven pounds of candy in a year.
I'm pretty sure you eat your entire yearly allowance between Halloween and the day after Halloween.
Well, you gotta test all that candy for your kids.
The rest of us has to spread out.
One more interesting fact, okay?
In 2025, Americans spent approximately 55 billion on chocolate, candy, gum, and nuts.
In the year 2005, the average American bought 25 pounds of candy.
That's crazy.
Which of the following was designated Wisconsin's official state rock in 1971?
red granite.
It
is red granite.
What is a group of kangaroos called?
Is it a bounce, a troupe, a pounce, or a kick?
I've got a troupe.
It is a troupe, which was a real product.
Tiny hands, finger puppets, chicken nugget, bookmark, or a Bluetooth casserole dish.
I've got the
puppets.
It is the tiny hand, tiny finger puppets.
Can a team score just one point on his safety?
Never.
Oh, that's false.
Really?
only during a try after a touchdown, okay?
A safety occurring during a try is worth one point under NHFS scoring rules rather than the usual two.
A one point safety that's so rare that half the people in the stands would think the scoreboard was broken.
Do you understand how it works?
So I'm on offense.
You're on defense.
I'm going for two points.
And then I, being a dummy, run all the way back to the other end zone.
Wrong way break.
That's right.
And get a safety that is worth one point.
Wrong way break.
What if that's ever happened?
I'm sure it has because the rules there.
I'm sure
you'd really be disoriented.
And then I would think one of your teammates would catch you and tackle you.
I was fast, Phil.
Were you?
Yeah, I was
fast.
Not very bright.
No.
Yeah.
So,
yeah, that's with your helmet on backwards.
It's hard to see, you know.
Wow.
What percentage of internet, internet users state they watch short firm form, short form videos like TikTok reels or shorts every single week.
85%.
That is correct.
It's
actually astounding
number.
I'm not surprised.
The upwards of 85% as well.
Wow.
Internet users form, you know, make it nearly a universal media habit.
Very addicting.
Wow.
Which university unofficial mascot is famously a tree?
I'm going with Oregon State.
Nope, it's Stanford.
Really?
Stanford, the tree, the tree is perfect for football has strong roots, good coverage and absolutely no breakaway speed.
That would be me.
All right.
Number nine, almost everyone knows about the chicken who lived 18 months without a head.
That's unbelievable.
And the really amazing part, no one knew his name.
What was his name?
I'm going with Lucky Larry.
Nope, it's Miracle Mike.
That chicken probably made more intelligent decision than half the people I've dealt with this week, fellow.
This is a documented historical case, not just a farm, old farmer too.
Wow.
Yeah.
Miracle Mike.
Miracle Mike.
Lucky Larry sounded better.
I did.
Lucky Larry.
I like
Lucky Larry.
Or, or headless Harry.
I liked
that.
I made that one up too.
A cluster of 10 to 20 bananas is called what Phillip?
A hand.
It is a hand.
I
actually knew that
one.
Yep.
It is a hand.
All right.
How many?
I think it is six.
One, two, three, four wrong.
Wow.
Six, correct.
Boy, can I go up for recess today?
You're still above average.
Yeah, you're still averaging about 86% for the year.
Good, because it's going to be nice, you know,
but you are getting a progress report.
Oh, really?
Yeah.
We spent our hard-earning check on what?
Yeah, we should have just raised chickens.
You ought to be ashamed of
yourself.
Jim, we should have just raised chickens.
Good morning, everyone, for WRCO News.
I'm Todd Copernol.
It is 60 sunny degrees in Richland Center right now.
Today's high 69, so we're done with the record highs, but still a nice day coming today in the news.
A pilot sustained injuries after a single-engine aircraft crashed into a marshy area in rural Richland County Monday afternoon.
The Richland County Sheriff's Office reports shortly after 1 p.m.
pilot Peter Arsvald, 67 of Verona, was conducting a maiden test flight of a single-engine plane
owned by Arthur Simpson of Richland Center.
Shortly into the flight, Arswald encountered mechanical problems and reported to Simpson that he believed the plane was going down.
The aircraft subsequently crashed into a swamp and marsh area south of US Highway 14 near Sextonville behind a local residence.
A nearby homeowner witnessed the plane descend into the marsh and immediately dialed 911.
Arswald, who was trapped inside the cockpit following the impact, also
so-called emergency dispatchers and remained on the phone while first responders worked to locate him.
Emergency personnel navigated approximately 700 feet through difficult swamp terrain to reach the crash site using cellular phone GPS coordinates while a drone monitored the scene from above to guide responders.
Numerous area agencies assisted at the scene including the Richland Center fire department, Lone Rock EMS and fire department, Casanovia
Fire Department, Muscat A Fire, Evoca Police, Wisconsin DNR, MedLink, Richland County Emergency Management, Wagner's Towing, Richland County Sheriff Drone Team, Richland County EMS, Spring Green Fire, and All-American Duet Center of Richland Center.
A tragic single vehicle crash Sunday morning claimed the life of a 66-year-old Iowa resident
in Vernon County.
According to Sheriff Roy Torgerson, the Sheriff's Office 911 dispatch center received word of the accident at approximately 8.45 a.m.
The crash took place on State Highway 35 near Chipmunk Ridge Road in the town of Bergen.
which is rural Stoddard.
The driver identified as Ricky Dean Peyton of Winthrop, Iowa, was northbound in a 2012 freight liner box truck when the vehicle traveled off the right side of the road.
In an effort to recover the box truck, struck a perpendicular driveway embankment, re-entered the highway, overturned and came to rest on the opposite side of the road.
Peyton was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.
Passing motorists provided immediate medical assistance continuing their efforts as emergency responders arrived.
Despite extensive life-saving attempts by first responders, Peyton's injuries proved fatal.
He was pronounced dead at the scene by Vernon County Coroner Betty Nye.
Numerous emergency units assisted at the scene, including the Stoddard-Bergen Fire Department, Gunderson Tri-State Ambulance, and Gunderson Air.
Emergency responders in Grant County were called to two separate traffic accidents on Friday, October 9, including a single vehicle run off the road crash near Fenimore.
and a two-vehicle collision at an intersection near Lancaster.
The first incident occurred at approximately 8 a.m.
along Highway 61 near Pine Grove Road south of Fenimore.
Deputies learned that 69-year-old Steven Feldhacker of rural Fenimore was driving south on Highway 61 while on his way to the hospital while he was not feeling well.
Feldhacker blacked out
Causing his 2013 Chevrolet Impala to cross the center line, travel down an embankment on the south side of the highway and strike several trees before coming to rest against a barbed wire fence.
Although uninjured from the crash itself, Feldhacker was transported by Fenimore EMS to the hospital for his medical emergency, assisting at the scene where the Fenimore Fire Department, Stitzer Fire Department, and collision specialist of Fenimore, which towed the vehicle.
Later that morning, around 11.25, deputies responded to a second crash at the intersection of Highway 61 and Highway 129 in North Lancaster Township.
Investigators determined that 80-year-old Larry Vesperman of Lancaster was stopped at a stop sign on Highway 129 in a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, intending to cross Highway 61 onto Commercial Road.
Vesperman proceeded into the intersection without seeing an approaching northbound 2021 Buick enclave driven by 81-year-old Eileen Henkel of Fenimore.
The front passenger corner of Vesperman's Jeep struck the passenger side of Henkel's Buick, forcing the SUV to slide into the east ditch while the Jeep remained on the roadway.
Reduced visibility from rain was noted as a contributing factor.
Henkel sustained minor injuries but declined medical treatment at the scene.
Her buick suffered disabling damage requiring a tow.
Vesperman was able to drive his moderately damaged jeep from the scene and was issued a citation for failure to yield right of way from a stop sign.
Emergency responders were dispatched to a severe single vehicle rollover crash on Highway 35 and 61 near the Lancaster Airport in South Lancaster Township the morning of October 7th at approximately 6.40 a.m.
The Grant County Sheriff's Office received a call reporting that a vehicle had rolled onto its driver's side and that the operator was unconscious and trapped inside.
Sheriff's deputies responded to the scene alongside the Lancaster Fire Department and Lancaster EMS.
According to investigating deputies, 24 year old Jacob Stelpflug of Lancaster was driving northbound on Highway 35 and 61 when his truck drifted off the east side of the road.
The vehicle struck a driveway embankment for loudspeaker components, went airborne briefly and landed in an adjacent ditch before rolling multiple times.
Firefighters extricated stealth flugue from the wreckage where EMS personnel immediately provided medical care.
Due to the severity of the incident, UW MedFlight was summoned directly to the scene and subsequently airlifted stealth flugue to a hospital in Madison for treatment.
The crash caused Highway 35 and 61 to be completely closed in both directions for roughly one hour while emergency crews worked and Bennett's towing of Lancaster removed the damaged vehicle.
Vernon County is set to honor the outstanding contributions of its local residents, businesses, and organizations during the fourth annual Vernon County Awards Banquet, Wednesday, November 4th, hosted at Willow & Oak within the Hillsboro Brewing Company.
This year's event centers on the theme, stronger together, adapting, innovating, thriving.
The evening highlights the collaborative spirit and resilience that drive economic growth and community strength throughout the region.
The program features a dynamic lineup including networking opportunities, dinner, and an insightful panel discussion with regional entrepreneurs who will share their experiences navigating economic shifts.
Attendees can also participate in an optional brewery tour prior to the opening of the main doors.
Following the panel, accolades will be presented across several key categories, such as small business of the year,
environmental steward of the year, nonprofit of the year and the community impact award.
Organizers emphasize that the event is open to all community members, leaders and supporters who wish to celebrate local progress.
Tickets are priced at $32 per person and must be reserved online in advance by October 23rd as no sales will be conducted at the door.
For registration details and further information interested participants can visit the official event page or contact
contact the Vernon County Economic Development Office directly.
Eight outstanding schools across the state have been named 2026 Wisconsin Blue Ribbon School winners, including Wazika Elementary School and the Wazika-Steuben School District.
The annual state-level recognition honors schools for overall academic excellence or significant progress in closing student achievement gaps.
It is an honor to recognize these exceptional schools, said State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly.
This achievement is made possible by the students, educators, staff, families, and leaders who work every day to create school communities where everyone can learn, grow, and take pride in their success.
Congratulations to each of these schools on this well-deserved recognition.
The Wisconsin Blue Ribbon Schools program recognizes schools across two distinct categories, exemplary high-performing schools and exemplary gap closing schools.
High-performing schools rank among the highest in Wisconsin based on aggregate student performance on statewide assessments.
Gap closing schools are recognized for successfully narrowing achievement disparities between specific student subgroups and their peers over time.
Wozika Elementary School.
was recognized in both categories.
Governor Tony Evers and Department of Administration Secretary Kathy Blumenfeld have released the 2026 Continuous Improvement Program Report.
Prepared by the Strategic Management and Planning Team, the report details how simple, data-driven changes across state agencies improved daily operations for employees and residents while saving a record $7.75 million a year.
Governor Evers commended public workers for finding smart solutions to everyday problems and keeping state government accountable to taxpayers.
Covering fiscal year 2026, the report highlights 104 worker-led projects across various state agencies, a 22% increase from last year.
Together, these projects delivered $378,000 in one-time savings, saved $7.75 million annually, and freed up more than 18,000 staff hours so employees can focus on essential public services.
Today is October 13th.
These are today's vital statistics.
Lester Bud Gudgeon, 95 of Richland Center, died Thursday, October 8th.
Funeral services will be held at 11 a.m.
today at the Lafarge Free Methodist Church.
Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m.
until the time of service.
Burial with full military honors will follow the service at Bear Creek Cemetery.
Vasatag Funeral Home and Crematory in Lafarge is serving the family.
Lester Bud Guggen, 95 of Richland Center.
Estella M. Rowan.
86 of Muscaday, formerly of Ridgeway, died Sunday, October 4, at St.
Mary's Hospital in Madison.
Visitation for Estella will be held Thursday, October 15, from 4 p.m.
until 8 p.m.
at the Gorgon, McGinley, and Ayers funeral home in Dodgeville.
Private family internment will be held at Eastside Ebenezer Cemetery in Ridgeway at a later date.
Estella M.
Rowan, 86 of Muscaday, formerly of Ridgway.
Kenneth Ken Scott Ledman, 65 of Fond du Lac, formerly of Richland Center, died Tuesday, September 22 at Aurora Medical Center in Fond du Lac after a battle with cancer.
And Lawrence Larry Darwin Ledman,
91 of Fond du Lac, formerly of Richland Center, October 26 in Hospice Care.
There will be a combined celebration of life for both Ken and Larry Sunday, October 18 from 12 p.m.
until 3 p.m.
at the Phoenix Center Banquet Hall in Richland Center.
Food will be provided eulogy at 1 p.m.
Kenneth Ken Scott Ledman, 65.
and Lawrence Larry Ledman, 91, both of Fond du Lac and formerly of Richland Center.
Law enforcement authorities are asking for the public's help in locating Jesse Yanski, formerly of Richland Center and Avoka, who went missing April 17th, 2025 in Taylor County.
Yanski had recently moved to the village of Ogema, Wisconsin, just two weeks prior to the disappearance.
to live with his girlfriend.
According to a family member, the couple went out to a nearby bar that evening and got into an argument on the drive home.
Yanski exited the vehicle to take a walk and cool off, leaving both his phone and wallet inside the car.
Multiple witnesses reported seeing Yanski walking along Highway 13 later that evening.
A call to authorities also reported a man matching his description at the Highway 13 wayside near Westboro.
No one has heard from him since.
Family members say his prolonged absence is highly out of character.
His sister, Breanna Jansky, fondly described her brother as a complete mama's boy, emphasizing that he would never go more than a few days without contacting their mother.
If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Jesse Jansky, please contact law enforcement immediately.
The family has decided to hold a celebration of life Saturday.
October 24th at 1 p.m.
at the Village of Avoka Municipal Building in Avoka.
Bring fun stories and a snack to share.
Refreshments will be provided.
This is a casual affair and if you have Jurassic Park attire, please feel free to wear it.
Jesse James Jansky, born March 6th, 1993.
And we have a birth announcement from the Richland Hospital son, Isaac Lee Smith, born to Eliza Baker.
Congratulations.
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 13th.
These are today's vital statistics.
Estella.
M. Rowan, 86 of Muscaday, formerly of Ridgeway, died Sunday, October 4th, at St.
Mary's Hospital in Madison.
Visitation for Estella will be held Thursday, October 15th, from 4 p.m.
until 8 p.m.
at the Gorgon, McGinley and Ayers funeral home in Dodgeville.
Private family internment will be held at Eastside Ebenezer Cemetery in Ridgeway at a later date.
The Gorgon, McGinley, and Ayers funeral home in Dodgeville is assisting the family.
Estella is survived by her children, Melvin and Marie Rowan Jr., Matthew and Annalyn Rowan, Teresa Rowan, Mark and Kelly Rowan, Michael Rowan and Marvel Rowan III.
Many grandchildren and great-grandchildren, other relatives and friends.
Estella M. Rowan, 86 of Muscaday, formerly of Ridgeway.
Loretta Grace Delagrave, 90 of Richland Center, died Sunday, October 11, after battling cancer.
A funeral mass will be held Friday, October 16th at 11 a.m.
at St.
Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Richland Center with burial in the church cemetery.
Visitation will be held Friday at the church from 9.30 a.m.
until the time of mass at 11.
The Stafford Funeral Home is assisting the family.
with the arrangements.
Loretta is survived by her children, Daniel and Debbie Delagrave, Elizabeth Delagrave, Jane and David Hooth and Thomas Delagrave, 12 grandchildren, 17 great-grandchildren, her sister, Karen Prestwood, many other relatives and friends.
Loretta Grace Delagrave, 90 of Richland Center.
Kenneth
Ken Scott Letman, 65 of Fond du Lac, formerly of Richland Center, died Tuesday, September 22nd at Aurora Medical Center in Fond du Lac after a battle with cancer.
Lawrence Larry Darwin Letman, 91 of Fond du Lac, formerly of Richland Center, died September 26th in hospice care.
There will be a combined celebration of life for both Ken and Larry Sunday, October 18th from 12 noon until 3 p.m.
at the Phoenix Center Banquet Hall in Richland Center.
Food will be provided eulogy at 1 p.m.
Larry and Ken are survived by Larry's wife, Barbara, Ken's life partner, Betty Delcer, and her son, Nathan and Aaron Delcer, Ken's son, Desian, Larry's other children, Ken's siblings, Kim Slusher, Jay and Roberta Ledman, Stuart Ledman and Darcy Mason, other relatives and friends, Kenneth
Ken Scott, Ledman, 65, and Lawrence Larry Edmond, 91, both of Fond du Lac and formerly of Richland Center.
Law enforcement authorities are asking for the public's help in locating Jesse Yansky, formerly of Richland Center and Avoka, who went missing April 17th, 2025 in Taylor County.
Yanski had recently moved to the village of Ogema, Wisconsin, just two weeks prior to his disappearance, to live with his girlfriend.
According to a family member, the couple went out to a nearby bar that evening and got into an argument on the drive home.
Yanski exited the vehicle to take a walk and cool off, leaving both his phone and wallet inside the car.
Multiple witnesses reported seeing Jansky walking along Highway 13 later that evening.
A call to authorities also reported a man matching his description at the Highway 13 wayside near Westboro.
No one has heard from him since.
Family members say his prolonged absence is highly out of character.
His sister, Brianna Jansky, fondly described her brother as a complete mama's boy, emphasizing that he would never go more than a few days without contacting their mother.
If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Jesse Jansky, please contact law enforcement immediately.
The family has decided to hold a celebration of life Saturday, October 24th at 1 p.m.
at the village of a Volca municipal building in a Volca.
Bring fun stories and a snack to share.
Refreshments will be provided.
This is a casual affair and if you have Jurassic Park attire, please feel free to wear it.
Jesse James Jansky, born March 6th, 1993.
And we have a birth announcement from the Richland Hospital, a son.
Isaac Lee Smith was born to Eliza Baker.
Congratulations!
Welcome back to the news at noon, a pilot sustained injuries after a single engine aircraft crashed into a marshy area in rural Richland County yesterday afternoon.
The Richland County Sheriff's Office reports shortly after 1pm pilot.
Peter Arsvald, 67 of Verona, was conducting a maiden test flight of a single-engine plane owned by Arthur Simpson of Richland Center.
Shortly into the flight, Arsvald encountered mechanical problems and reported to Simpson that he believed the plane was going down.
The aircraft subsequently crashed into a swamp in Marsh area, south of US Highway 14, near Sextonville, behind a local residence.
A nearby homeowner witnessed the plane descend into the marsh and immediately dialed 911.
Oursfold, who was trapped inside the cockpit following the impact, also called emergency dispatchers and remained on the phone while first responders worked to locate him.
Emergency personnel navigated approximately 700 feet through difficult swamp terrain to reach the crash site using cellular phone GPS coordinates while a drone monitored the scene from above to guide responders.
Numerous area agencies assisted at the scene, including the Richland Center Fire Department, Lone Rock EMS and Fire, Casanovia Fire, Muscaday Fire, A Volca Police, Wisconsin DNR, MedLink.
Richland County Emergency Management, Wagner's Towing, Richland County Sheriff Drone Team, Richland County EMS, and the Spring Green Fire Department.
The Richland County Sheriff's Office extends its sincere appreciation to all responding agencies and personnel who worked together during this challenging rescue operation.
Also, a thank you to all American Duet Center of Richland Center, whose staff promptly provided materials to assist
emergency personnel when requested.
Their support was greatly appreciated.
As a result of the demanding rescue operation and extreme physical exertion in the challenging conditions, multiple emergency responders were transported by Richland County EMS to Richland Hospital.
for evaluation and treatment of dehydration and heat exhaustion.
The incident remains under investigation by the Richland County Sheriff's Office, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and Federal Aviation Administration.
The Richland School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly governance meeting Wednesday, October 14th, commencing at 7 p.m.
in the Richland Center High School, IMC.
Board members will address key administrative, operational, and financial business vital to the district's ongoing governance.
Strategic planning and district policies take center stage during the discussion portion of the meeting
followed by an overview of the draft budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year.
In action items, the board will deliberate on a measure regarding state mandated private school voucher funding transparency on property tax bills before entertaining a motion to adjourn.
A tragic single vehicle crash on Sunday morning
claimed the life of a 66-year-old Iowa resident in Vernon County.
According to Sheriff Roy Torgerson, the Sheriff's Office 911 dispatch center received word of the accident at approximately 8.45 a.m.
The crash took place on State Highway 35 near Chipmunk Ridge Road in the town of Bergen, rural Stoddard.
The driver, identified as Ricky Dean Paton of Winthrop, Iowa, was northbound in a 2012 freight-liner box truck when the vehicle traveled off the right side of the road.
In an effort to recover, the box truck struck a perpendicular driveway embankment, re-entered the highway, overturned, and came to rest on the opposite side of the road.
Peyton was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was not wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash.
Passing motorists provided immediate medical assistance, continuing their efforts as emergency responders arrived.
Despite extensive life-saving attempts by first responders, Peyton's injuries proved fatal.
He was pronounced dead at the scene by Vernon County Coroner Betty Nye.
Numerous emergency units assisted at the scene, including the Stoddard-Bergen Fire Department, Gunderson Tri-State Ambulance,
Gunterson air and the Wisconsin State Patrol, including motor carrier enforcement, temporary detours and traffic closures were managed between La Crosse and Stoddard until the highway fully reopened shortly after 12 p.m.
with assistance from the Shelby Fire Department, Genoa Harmony Fire Department and the La Crosse County Highway Department.
Additional support was provided by La Crosse County Public Safety Communications and the Buchanan County
of office in Iowa.
The community is invited to gather at the Phoenix Center Thursday, October 15 from 5.30 to 7 p.m.
for the 23rd Walk with Grace annual meeting.
While the Brewers game plays in the next room, attendees will come together to celebrate collective impact and support the Grace community.
The evening begins at 5.30 p.m.
with arrival and social time.
Guests can enjoy light snacks provided by Grace.
Check out the bucket raffle donations and order dinner directly from the Phoenix Center kitchen.
The event will also feature short presentations from representatives of the UW Carbone Cancer Center and Gundersen Amplify who will be proudly presented with donation checks.
teams are highly encouraged to attend as group photos will be taken with the big check to capture the moment.
Additionally, attendees have a chance to win a $20 gas card by RSVPing via phone or text at 608-604-8255 or by email at gracelocalkancer at gmail.com.
Everyone who RSVPs will be automatically entered into the drawing but must be present
at the time of the drawing to win.
The organization looks forward to seeing everyone there.
Emergency responders in Grant County were called to two separate traffic incidents on Friday, October 9th, including a single vehicle run off the road crash near Fenimore in a two vehicle collision at an intersection near Lancaster.
The first incident occurred at approximately 8 a.m.
along Highway 61 near Pine Grove Road south of Fenimore.
Deputies learned that 69-year-old Steven Feldhacker of rural Fenimore was driving south on Highway 61 while on his way to the hospital due to feeling unwell.
Feldhacker blacked out, causing his 2013 Chevrolet Impala to cross the center line, travel down an embankment on the south side of the highway, and strike several trees before coming to rest against the barbed wire fence.
Although uninjured from the crash itself, Feldhacker was transported by Fenimore EMS to the hospital for his medical emergency.
Assisting at the scene were the Fenimore Fire Department, Stitzer Fire Department, and collision specialists of Fenimore, which towed the vehicle.
Later that morning, around 11.25 AM, deputies responded to a second crash at the intersection of Highway 61 and Highway 129 in North Lancaster Township.
Investigators determined that 80-year-old Larry Vesperman of Lancaster was stopped at a stop sign on Highway 129 in a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, and tending to cross Highway 61 onto Commercial Road.
Vesperman proceeded into the intersection,
without seeing an approaching northbound 2021 Buick Enclave, driven by 81-year-old Eileen Henkel of Fenimore.
The front passenger corner of Vesperman's Jeep struck the passenger side of Henkel's Buick, forcing the SUV to slide into the East Ditch while the Jeep remained in the roadway.
Reduced visibility from rain was noted as a contributing factor.
Henkel sustained minor injuries but declined medical treatment at the scene and her buick suffered disabling damage requiring a tow.
Vesperman was able to drive his moderately damaged sheep from the scene and was issued a citation for failure to yield right of way from a stop sign.
The Richland Center Public Works Committee will meet Thursday, October 15th at 5.30 p.m.
The meeting will be held in the council chambers at the municipal building and people can also join online through Microsoft Teams.
The committee will start by reviewing and approving the notes from their September 17th meeting looking over the monthly budget and approving standard bills.
After a monthly update from the Public Works Director, members will consider updated airport lease and rental fees, as well as a proposal for naming a city location.
Other topics on the agenda include managing brush waste at the landfill, updating city rules about Chapter 301 regarding trees and shrubs in the city, and reviewing the City Memorial Program.
Emergency responders were dispatched to a severe single vehicle rollover crash on Highway 35 and 61 near the Lancaster Airport in South Lancaster Township the morning of Wednesday, October 7th at approximately 6.40 a.m.
The Grant County Sheriff's Office received a call reporting that a vehicle had rolled onto its driver's side and that the operator was unconscious and trapped inside.
Sheriff's deputies responded to the scene alongside the Lancaster Fire Department and the Lancaster EMS.
According to investigating deputies 24-year-old Jacob Stelpflug of Lancaster was driving northbound on Highway 35 and 61 when his truck drifted off the east side of the road.
The vehicle struck a driveway embankment for loudspeaker components, went airborne briefly and landed in an adjacent ditch before rolling over multiple times.
firefighters extricated step fluke from the wreckage where EMS personnel immediately provided medical care.
Due to the severity of the incident, UW MedFlight was summoned directly to the scene and subsequently airlifted step fluke to a hospital in Madison for treatment.
The crash caused highway 35 and 61 to be completely closed in both directions from roughly an hour.
While emergency crews worked and Bennett's towing of Lancaster removed the damaged vehicle.
Vernon County is set to honor the outstanding contributions of its local residents, businesses, and organizations during the fourth annual Vernon County Awards Banquet, Wednesday, November 4th, hosted at Willow & Oak within the Hillsboro Brewing Company.
This year's event centers on the theme, stronger together, adapting, innovating, thriving.
The evening highlights the collaborative spirit and resilience that drive economic growth and community strength.
throughout the region.
The program features a dynamic lineup, including networking opportunities, dinner, and an insightful panel discussion with regional entrepreneurs who will share their experiences navigating economic shifts.
Attendees can also participate in an optional brewery tour prior to the opening of the main doors.
Following the panel, accolades will be presented across several key categories, such as small business of the year, environmental steward of the year, nonprofit of the year, and the community impact award.
Organizers emphasize that the event is open to all community members, leaders, and supporters who wish to celebrate local progress.
Tickets are priced at $32 per person and must be reserved online in advance.
By October 23rd, as no sales will be conducted at the door.
For registration details and further information interested participants can visit the official event page or contact the Vernon County Economic Development Office directly.
When purchasing a new or used vehicle, some consumers search online for a great deal.
The Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, DATCAP, warns that Wisconsin has experienced an increase in reports of car dealerships being impersonated by scammers online.
Michelle Reinen is with DATCAP.
Some things you could do is try to recognize the red flags of a dealer cloning scam.
And this means that a vintage sports luxury or collectable vehicle being sold online for far below market value is a red flag.
It's not just a great deal.
It should be a red flag if it says it's coming from a dealer.
The website or social media page was created very recently, even when the dealer claims to have been in business for many, many years is a flag for people.
Looking for those errors in spelling or grammar on an official website or social media profile.
And then when a dealer pushes shipping and delivery of a vehicle but discourages that in-person visit, that again is that red flag.
And what you can do to counter all of these
is research the dealership ahead of time and verify their contact information using a different source.
And then check the dealer's license and titles to verify that they are legitimate.
Never pay a car dealership with a gift card, cryptocurrency, or any other irreversible payment method.
And finally, end contact if something doesn't feel right.
or if that dealer doesn't want to use a motor vehicle purchase contract, which is really required by Wisconsin law of dealerships.
There are signs to look forward to recognize whether or not an online auto dealership is legitimate.
Some things you could do is try to recognize the red flags of a dealer cloning scam.
And this means that a vintage sports luxury or collectible vehicle being sold online for far below market value is a red flag.
It's not just a great deal.
It should be a red flag if it says it's coming from a dealer.
The website or social media page was created very recently, even when the dealer claims to have been in business for many, many years is a flag for people.
looking for those errors in spelling or grammar on an official website or social media profile.
And then when a dealer pushes shipping and delivery of a vehicle, but discourages that in-person visit, that again is that red flag.
If a red flag is discovered, there are steps that can be taken to protect yourself.
What you can do to counter all of these is research the dealership ahead of time and verify their contact information using a different source.
And then check the dealer's license and titles to verify that they are legitimate.
Never pay a car dealership with a gift card, cryptocurrency, or...
any other irreversible payment method and finally end contact if something doesn't feel right or if that dealer doesn't want to use a motor vehicle purchase contract which is really required by Wisconsin law of dealerships.
I just want to give a baseline for everybody that these reports began in 2024.
We saw them double in 2025.
But just here in 2026, the Wisconsin DOT is receiving an average of one dealer clone complaint every week.
And they've had losses exceeding $1.2 million with some individuals losing over $100,000.
So this is real and it's worth taking the time to be sure you're doing that verification.
If you suspect you have encountered a dealer clone, file a complaint online at the Wisconsin DMV website.
Also, if you've been a victim of this scam or any scam, you can contact DACCAP's Consumer Protection Hotline by phone at 800-422-7128.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has released the sustainability and business support sections of the annual report, showcasing how forward-thinking businesses are voluntarily exceeding regulatory standards to improve environmental outcomes and boost operational efficiency.
The report emphasizes key accomplishments across the state, including 20 years of participation in the Green Tier Program by Viridian Homes and Wholesome Dairies, as well as
banter corrugating companies.
operational enhancements in La Crosse.
Additionally, it highlights sun prairies transition to 100% renewable electricity for municipal operations and in-pro corporations zero waste program certification.
The report also details the successful debut of EnviroNav, an interactive web tool that helps organizations identify applicable environmental regulations and permits alongside the expanded adoption
of environmental check for proactive risk management.
The DNR encourages businesses and the public to review the complete report online or contact the sustainability and business support team to explore free, non-regulatory resources available to support local sustainability efforts.
Governor Tony Evers and the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development have officially launched Manufacturing Month
by awarding $6.6 million in WIST train grants to 84 employers across the state.
This initiative aims to equip over 3,800 Wisconsin workers with critical skills in advanced manufacturing and artificial intelligence.
The funding will support diverse projects spanning multiple sectors from food production and precision machining to construction and marine engineering.
By helping local businesses integrate cutting-edge
technologies, digital automation, and modern software solutions.
The program ensures Wisconsin's workforce remains competitive in a rapidly evolving economy.
The American Red Cross urges donors to give blood or platelets now to help hospitals and transfusion centers stay prepared to help all patients.
Area blood drives that will be held this week include tomorrow from 9 a.m.
to 3 p.m.
at Hillsborough High School and Friday from 12 30 until 5 p.m.
at the Blaine Gym in Bosque Bell.
appointments may be made by calling 800 Red Cross, visiting RedCrossBlood.org, or using the Red Cross Blood Donor app, walk-ins are always welcome.
To help American ranchers protect their livestock from wolf attacks,
The U.S.
Department of Agriculture is asking states to review their current wolf management rules.
Under a new executive order, federal officials are working to give farmers and ranchers more tools to defend their herds, including legal removal of problem wolves where permitted.
The USDA is also increasing financial aid to cover the full market value of animals lost to predators through the livestock indemnity program.
Ranchers dealing with wolf losses are encouraged to document any
attacks and contact local farm agencies for support and financial compensation.
The Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources has awarded over $250,000 in e-cycle Wisconsin electronics collection grants to support 39 projects across 35 counties.
Scheduled between October of this year and December of 2027, the funding will help establish two permanent collection sites and support up to 55 one-day collection events.
Enacted in 2010, Wisconsin's Electronics Recycling Law banned major electronics from landfills and established E-Cycle Wisconsin, a manufacturer-funded initiative managed by the state.
Since its inception, households and schools have recycled 440 million pounds of equipment.
Building on this momentum, the DNR has provided more than $830,000 since 2022 to rural
and underserved areas resulting in nine permanent collection sites and 136 single-day events.
Local governments and community organizations are also taking a direct role in expansion efforts.
Green Lake County will establish a new permanent collection site and the town of Round Lake will expand operations at its existing site in Sawyer County.
Additional localized collection events will be coordinated by county land conservation and public works departments in many Wisconsin counties.
Financed through manufacturer fees, the program ensures responsible recycling for standard items such as computers, monitors, televisions, printers, and cell phones.
Residents can locate nearby collection sites, search by county, or explore free trade-in options via the DNR's interactive online directory.
A new team has debuted at Southwest Wisconsin Technical College, giving students another opportunity to compete, connect and create a new tradition on campus.
Southwest Tech's women's club volleyball team has begun practicing for its inaugural season under head coach Jerica Henkel.
The team practices Monday and Wednesday evenings and has also scrimmaged against Highland High School.
The fall schedule is intentionally relaxed with the team preparing for a more rigorous spring session that will include tournament play.
For Henkel, the opportunity marks a return to coaching.
A Fenimore native, she played volleyball throughout high school
before attending Viterbo University where she played and coached a club team.
She later coached varsity volleyball in Fenimore before stepping away after starting a family.
I love the idea of building it from the ground up, she said.
I was itching to get back in the gym.
The team includes students with a variety of volleyball experiences and academic interests.
Manhattan Udelhofen, a Potosi graduate studying nursing.
played varsity volleyball throughout high school.
She said joining the new team provided an opportunity to remain active while meeting fellow students.
I think it's great.
She said it's a good way to meet new people.
I didn't know most of these girls before.
I did play some of them in high school, but now we're on a team together, which is really fun.
In a major effort to stimulate economic growth and expand job opportunities across rural Wisconsin, Wisconsin State Director Andrew Iverson announced $1.024 million in investments through the USDA Rural Business Development Grants Program.
The funds are allocated across 11 distinct rural business projects ranging from food cooperatives and independent hotels to agricultural initiatives and specialized technical training.
The program aims
to mentor and advise local business owners, providing key resources to support diverse endeavors.
Funded projects include customized technical training for tribal communities via the Community Education Initiative Incorporated, Strategic Economic Planning and WAPON and by the East Central Wisconsin Regional Planning Commission and tailored assistance for disabled entrepreneurs through Easter Seals Wisconsin.
Additionally, the Forrest County Pottawatomie Community will deliver an Indigenous Entrepreneurship Training Program, while the Wampaka County Economic Development Corporation will establish a Revolving Loan Fund to assist small businesses.
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 13th.
These are today's vital statistics.
Estella M. Rowan, 86 of Muscaday, formerly of Ridgeway, died Sunday October 4th at St.
Mary's Hospital.
in Madison.
Visitation for Estella will be held Thursday, October 15th from 4 p.m.
until 8 p.m.
at the Gorgon, McGinley and Ayers Funeral Home in Dodgeville.
Private family internment will be held in Eastside Ebenezer Cemetery in Ridgeway at a later date.
Estella M. Rowan, 86 of Muscaday, formerly
of Ridgeway.
Loretta Grace Delagrave, 90 of Richland Center died Sunday, October 11th after battling cancer.
A funeral mass will be held Friday, October 16th at 11 a.m.
at St.
Mary of the Assumption Catholic Church in Richland Center with burial in the church cemetery.
Visitation will be held Friday at the church from 9.30 a.m.
until the time of mass at 11.
The Stafford Funeral Home is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Loretta Grace Delagrave, 90 of Richland Center.
Kenneth Ken Scott Ledman, 65 of Fond du Lac, formerly of Richland Center, died Tuesday, September 22 at Aurora Medical Center in Fond du Lac, after a battle with cancer.
And Lawrence Larry Darwin Ledman, 91 of Fond du Lac, formerly of Richland Center, died September 26 in hospice care.
There will be a combined celebration of life for both Ken and Larry, Sunday, October 18th, from 12 noon until 3 p.m.
at the Phoenix Center Banquet Hall in Richland Center.
Food will be provided eulogy at 1 p.m.
Kenneth Ken Scott Ledman, 65, and Lawrence Larry Ledman, 91, both of Fond du Lac.
and formerly of Richland Center.
Law enforcement authorities are asking for the public's help in locating Jesse Jansky, formerly of Richland Center and Evoca, who went missing April 17th, 2025 in Taylor County.
Jansky had recently moved to the village of Ogemo, Wisconsin just two weeks prior to his disappearance to live with his girlfriend.
According to a family member, the couple went out to a nearby bar that evening and got into an argument on the drive home.
Jansky exited the vehicle to take a walk and cool off, leaving both his phone and wallet inside the car.
Multiple witnesses reported seeing Jansky walking along Highway 13 later that evening.
A call to authorities also reported a man matching his description at the Highway 13 wayside near Westboro.
No one has heard from him since.
Family members say his prolonged absence is highly out of character.
His sister, Brianna Jansky, fondly described her brother as a complete mama's boy, emphasizing that he would never go more than a few days without contacting their mother.
If you have any information regarding the whereabouts of Jesse Jansky, please contact law enforcement immediately.
The family has decided to hold a celebration of life Saturday, October 24th at 1 p.m.
at the village of Avoka Municipal Building in Avoka.
Bring fun stories and a snack to share.
Refreshments will be provided.
This is a casual affair.
And if you have Jurassic Park attire, please feel free to wear it.
Jesse James Jansky, born March 6th, 1993.
And from the Richland Hospital, we have a birth announcement.
A son, Isaac Lee Smith, born to Eliza.
Baker, congratulations.
This concludes today's vital statistic.
Good evening, everyone, for WRCO News.
I'm Todd Copernall.
Richland County is gearing up to host its second annual Career Fair Wednesday, November 18th at the Richland Center High School Campus Gymnasium.
Building on the success of last year's inaugural event, local organizers, schools, employers, and community partners are coming together once again to help area students explore future career.
Educational and training opportunities.
Event coordinators have made several key updates based on feedback from previous participants.
The schedule has been streamlined with vendors set up taking place from 8 a.m.
to 9 a.m.
followed by the main career fair running from 9 a.m.
to 1.30 p.m.
A working lunch will be provided to maximize engagement while ensuring vendors can conclude their day promptly at 1.30 p.m.
To foster deeper connections, organizers have also reduced the number of required questions for students, placing a stronger emphasis on open, organic dialogue.
With nearly 50 vendors anticipated across various industries and pathways, the fair aims to encourage meaningful conversations regarding careers, internships, youth apprenticeships, and college programs.
Vendors and regional organizations interested in participating are encouraged to reserve their spots by contacting Tom Martin with the CESA 3 Career and Life Ready team.
A pilot sustained injuries after a single-engine aircraft crashed into a marshy area in rural Richland County Monday afternoon.
The Richland County Sheriff's Office reports shortly after 1 p.m.
Pilot Peter Arsvald, 67 of Verona, was conducting a maiden test flight of a single-engine plane owned by 76-year-old Arthur Simpson of Richland Center.
Shortly into the flight, Arsvald encountered mechanical problems and reported to Simpson that he believed the plane was going down.
The aircraft subsequently crashed into a swamp and marsh area south of US Highway 14, near Sextonville, behind a local residence.
A nearby homeowner witnessed the plane descend into the marsh and immediately dialed 911.
Arswald, who was trapped inside the cockpit following the impact, also called emergency dispatchers and remained on the phone while first responders worked to locate him.
Emergency personnel navigated approximately 700 feet through difficult swamp terrain to reach the crash site using cellular phone GPS coordinates, while a drone monitored the scene from above to guide responders.
Numerous area agencies assisted at the scene, including the Richland Center Fire Department, Lone Rock EMS and Fire Department, Casanovia Fire Department, Muscaday Fire Department, Avoka Police Department, Wisconsin DNR, MedLink, Richland County Emergency Management, Wagner's Towing, Richland County Sheriff Drone Team, Richland County EMS.
and the Spring Green Fire Department.
The Richland County Sheriff's Office extends its sincere appreciation to all responding agencies and personnel who worked together during this challenging rescue operation.
Also, a thank you to all American Duet Center of Richland Center, whose staff promptly provided materials to assist emergency personnel when requested.
Their support was greatly appreciated.
As a result of the demanding rescue operation and extreme physical exertion in the challenging conditions, multiple emergency responders were transported by Richland County EMS to Richland Hospital for evaluation and treatment of dehydration and heat exhaustion.
The incident remains under investigation by the Richland County Sheriff's Office, Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources, and Federal Aviation Administration.
The Richland School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly governance meeting Wednesday, October 14th, commencing at 7 p.m.
in the Richland Center High School, IMC.
Board members will address key administrative, operational, and financial business vital to the district's ongoing governance.
Strategic planning and district policies take center stage during the discussion portion of the meeting, followed by an overview of the draft budget for the 2026-27 fiscal year.
In action items, the Board will deliberate on a measure regarding state-mandated private school voucher funding transparency.
on property tax bills before entertaining a motion to adjourn.
A tragic single vehicle crash Sunday morning claimed the life of a 66-year-old Iowa resident in Vernon County.
According to Sheriff Roy Torgerson, the Sheriff's Office 911 dispatch center received word of the accident at approximately 8.45 a.m.
The crash took place on State Highway 35 near Chipmunk Ridge Road in the town of Bergen, rural Stoddard.
The driver, identified as Ricky Dean Payton of Winthrop, Iowa, was northbound in a 2012 freight-liner box truck when the vehicle traveled off the right side of the road.
In an effort to recover the box truck struck a perpendicular driveway embankment, re-entered the highway, overturned, and came to rest on the opposite side of the road.
Peyton was the sole occupant of the vehicle and was not wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash.
Passing motorists provided immediate medical assistance, continuing their efforts as emergency responders arrived.
Despite extensive life-saving attempts by first responders, Peyton's injuries proved fatal.
He was pronounced dead at the scene by Vernon County Coroner Betty Nye.
Numerous emergency units assisted at the scene, including the Stoddard-Bergen Fire Department, Gunderson Tri-State Ambulance, Gunderson Air, and the Wisconsin State Patrol, including motor carrier enforcement.
Temporary detours and traffic closures were managed between La Crosse and Stoddard until the highway fully reopened shortly after 12 p.m.
with assistance from the Shelby Fire Department, Genoa Harmony Fire Department, and the La Crosse County Highway.
Department.
Additional support was provided by La Crosse County Public Safety Communications and the Buchanan County Sheriff's Office in Iowa.
The community is invited to gather at the Phoenix Center Thursday, October 15th from 5.30 to 7 p.m.
for the 23rd Walk with Grace annual meeting.
While the Brewer's Game plays in the next room, attendees will come together to celebrate collective impact and support the Grace community.
The evening begins at 5.30 p.m.
with a rival in social time.
Guests can enjoy light snacks provided by Grace, check out the bucket raffle donations, and order dinner directly from the Phoenix Center kitchen.
The event will also feature short presentations from representatives of the UW-Carbone Cancer Center and Gundersen Amplify, who will proudly be presented with donation checks.
All teams are highly encouraged to attend as group photos will be taken with the big check to capture the moment.
Additionally, attendees have a chance to win a $20 gas card by RSVPing via phone or text at 608-604-8255 or by email at GRACELocalCancer.
at gmail.com.
Everyone who RSVPs will be automatically entered into the drawing but must be present at the time of the drawing to win.
The organization looks forward to seeing everyone there.
Emergency responders in Grant County were called to two separate traffic incidents on Friday, October 9th, including a single vehicle run off the road crash near Fenimore and a two-vehicle collision at an intersection near Lancaster.
The first incident occurred at approximately 8 a.m.
along Highway 61 near Pine Grove Road, south of Fenimore.
Deputies learned that 69-year-old Steven Fieldhacker of rural Fenimore was driving south on Highway 6.
while on his way to the hospital due to not feeling well.
Feldhacker blacked out, causing his 2013 Chevrolet Impala to cross the center line, travel down an embankment on the south side of the highway, and strike several trees before coming to rest against a barbed wire fence.
Although uninjured from the crash itself, Feldhacker was transported by Fenimore EMS to the hospital for his medical emergency.
Assisting at the scene were the Fenimore Fire Department, Stitzer Fire Department, and collision specialists of Fenimore, which towed the vehicle.
Later that morning, around 11.25 a.m., deputies responded to a second crash at the intersection of Highway 61 and Highway 129 in North Lancaster Township.
Investigators determined that 80-year-old Larry Vesperman of Lancaster was stopped at a stop sign on Highway 129 in a 2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee, intending to cross Highway 61 onto Commercial Road.
Vesperman proceeded into the intersection without seeing and approaching Northbound 2021 Buick Enclave, driven by 81-year-old Eileen Henkel of Fenimore.
The front passenger corner of Vesperman's Jeep struck the passenger side of Henkel's Buick, forcing the SUV to slide into the east ditch while the Jeep remained in the roadway.
Reduced visibility from rain was noted as a contributing factor.
Hankel sustained minor injuries but declined medical treatment at the scene and her Buick suffered disabling damage requiring a tow from Done's auto body and towing.
Vesperman was able to drive his moderately damaged Jeep from the scene and was issued a citation for failure to yield right of way from a stop sign.
Vital statistics right after this.