Thursday News Roundup

Today is October 22nd.

These are today's vital statistics.

Diane Baumkamp, 85 of Muscaday, died Sunday, October 11th.

Graveside services will be held Friday at 1 p.m.

at St.

John's Catholic Cemetery.

The Pratt Funeral Acformation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.

Diane Baumkamp, 85 of Muscaday.

Martin C. Smiley Fortune, 84 of Viola, died Saturday, October 17, at Vernon Manor in Verroqua.

A funeral service for Smiley will be held at 11 a.m.

Saturday at the Viola United Methodist Church.

Visitation will be held Friday from 4 until 7 p.m.

at the church.

Additional visitation will be held Saturday at the Viola United Methodist Church from 10 a.m.

until the time of service.

A luncheon will immediately follow the service at the Viola Community Center.

Smiley will be laid to rest at a later date at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery.

Martin C. Smiley, for Tune 84 of Viola.

Connie

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

A funeral mass will be held Saturday 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.

Connie Gene McElrie 77, formerly.

of Richland Center.

Caitlyn Elizabeth Fleishauer, 41, of Springgreen and Muscaday died Sunday, October 18th.

Funeral services will be held Monday, October 26th at 11 a.m.

at St.

John the Baptist Catholic Church in Muscaday.

Visitation will be held Sunday at St.

John's Gym from 12 p.m.

until 3 p.m.

and again Monday from 10 a.m.

until the procession to the church at 10.45.

Caitlin Elizabeth Fleishauer, 41 of Spring Green and Muscaday.

John Jack Bauer, 88 of Richland Center, died Monday, October 19th at the Richland Hospital.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 27th at 11 a.m.

at St.

Mary's Catholic Church.

Burial will follow in St.

Mary's Catholic Cemetery with military graveside rights to be provided by the local Military Memorial Honors Unit.

Visitation will be held

Tuesday at St.

Mary's Catholic Church from 9 a.m.

until the time of Mass at 11.

Jack Bauer, 88 of Richland Center.

Michael Allen Winstrup, 85 of Richland Center, died Friday, October 8 after a short battle with cancer.

The Pratt Funeral Anchormation Service is assisting the family.

A celebration of life will be held at a later date.

Michael Allen

windstrump 85 of Richland Center.

Betty Lanham 74 of Muscaday died Sunday, October 11th at the Richland Hospital.

Per Betty's request, no services will be held.

The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting with the arrangements.

Betty Lanham 74 of Muscaday.

Good morning, everyone.

For WRCO News, I'm Todd Copernol.

We've reached 42 degrees this morning.

High temperature today will be 73.

In the news, this is from Tricia Clemens, Richland County's administrator on October 20th, the Richland County Board of Supervisors passed Resolution 26-65, which rescinded Resolutions 26-22 and 26-34 and provided an updated plan for Richland County EMS.

This resolution approved

approved offering a six month contract with the municipalities to provide ambulance service to the community starting January 1st and ending June 30th, 2027.

This resolution also restructured the funding mechanism by returning the responsibility for providing ambulance service to the towns, including those that directly use Richland EMS service.

The municipalities were notified in September that the county would no longer be levying outside of the levy limit for ambulance service.

For those with a contract with Richland EMS, they were notified of the amount they would be responsible to pay for the service, followed by an ask for their interest in continuing to contract for 2027.

due to not getting a commitment from all municipalities.

Richland County needed to adjust the contract duration to have the least fiscal impact on the county budget.

In making this decision, there were three main points that were taken into consideration.

The first was what happens with the staff from Richland EMS.

The second was making sure the community has access to EMS until a new plan could be put in place.

The final was giving municipalities ample time to find another solution.

We feel that we've addressed all of the concerns.

The first was by finalizing a contract with SEUI, the union, representing the employees that set up a severance package if the service ends.

Second, this timeframe gives the municipalities eight months to find an alternative plan.

And finally, we agree to continue the service for the first six months of the year.

Multiple municipalities in Richland County had passed resolutions opposing the county's intention to support all county ambulance services through a countywide emergency medical system, which includes levying outside of the levy limit.

These resolutions looked to join together in legal and regulatory action against Richland County regarding the use of the EMS levy limit exemption.

After consulting with legal counsel, the county has made the decision to change what it had intended to fund.

The county continues to provide a countywide emergency medical system through emergency medical dispatch and communications.

These are services that the county is not required to provide related to emergency medical response, but have made the determination these are valuable services to provide to the community and serve the entire community.

Questions, comments, or concerns can be directed to your county board supervisor or county administrator.

As we know, this has been a very challenging topic of discussion for the county municipalities and the community.

There is also a frequently asked questions document on the county's website that continues to be updated.

The Richland County Executive and Finance Standing Committee will convene Monday at 5 p.m.

in the Richland County boardroom.

The meeting will offer options for both in-person and virtual attendance with access details available on the county website.

The committee is set to address key local matters, including a discussion and potential action on Richland County's role in the public service commission process regarding the proposed 765 kilovolt transmission line.

Additionally, members will consider

establishing consistent reporting mechanisms to the board from county department heads and discuss a memorandum of understanding between Richland County and the Richland School District regarding the campus gymnasium.

Reports from the county administrator and the county board chair are also included.

Governor Tony Evers, together with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, announced that $69.5 million in grants were awarded through the latest round of the Agricultural Roads Improvement Program.

Funding provided by the 2025-27 biennial budget will support 39 projects across 32 Wisconsin counties, focused on improving local rural roads, bridges, and culverts used by farmers and producers to transport agricultural and

forestry products that support Wisconsin's more than $116 billion agricultural industry statewide.

The latest cycle of funding brings the total number of projects funded by ARIP to $161 across 60 of Wisconsin's 72 counties.

All told, more than 30 million tons of agricultural products valued at $14.8 billion are transported on ARIP awarded roads each year.

Under Governor Evers' leadership, the state has improved more than 9,600 miles of roads and 2,400 bridges statewide since 2019.

Fresh off a Tony Award-winning season, American Players Theater in Spring Green, Wisconsin has revealed an ambitious nine-play lineup for its 48th season set to run from June through November, 2027.

Building on immense artistic momentum and strong community support, the upcoming season blends classic masterworks, sharp comedies, and groundbreaking contemporary drama across its outdoor Hill Theater and indoor Touchstone.

theater stages.

The summer season outdoors at the Hill Theater kicks off in June, with William Shakespeare spirited farce the comedy of errors directed by core company member David Daniel, following his acclaimed 2025 production of A Midsummer's Night's Dream.

Reflecting on the organization's current trajectory,

The group highlighted the strong bond among the theater's artists, staff, and dedicated audience that culminated in bringing home the Regional Tony Award.

Full schedule details for the 2027 season will be released in January with tickets opening to returning patrons in March via americanplayers.org.

It's now easier than ever for Wisconsin residents to prepare for the devastating financial consequences of flooding.

FEMA has launched a new tool, allowing individuals to purchase a national flood insurance program policy completely online through floodsmart.gov.

The service is accessible nationwide to anyone living in one of the nearly 22,700 participating communities.

This initiative aligns with the America First Resilience Strategy, which emphasizes a risk-informed approach, empowering citizens to protect their property and reduce dependence on federal assistance.

FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton highlighted that the digital purchase option cuts bureaucracy and lets users obtain a quote and policy in just minutes.

through the new self-service digital purchase option on floodsmart.gov.

Users can quickly obtain a quote by providing basic property details.

Applicants then have the flexibility to finalize the purchase online immediately or share quote details with a licensed insurance agent.

Floods remain the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States, and this streamlined process aims to expand coverage among policyholders, including the roughly $10,000

and 800 policyholders in Wisconsin currently carrying $2.6 billion in coverage.

Wisconsin's candidates for governor clashed over both the state's budget surplus and proposed data centers during Wednesday night's debate hosted by WISN.

Republican Tom Tiffany says the state's nearly three billion dollar surplus should be returned to taxpayers through long-term tax cuts while Democrat David Crowley wants some of the money invested in public schools and property tax relief.

The candidates also differed on data centers with Crowley emphasizing local control and in

environmental protections, while Tiffany called for no subsidies and safeguards against higher utility rates and also emphasizing local control.

Wisconsin voters will decide the race November 3rd.

There was a big first day turnout for in-person absentee voting in Wisconsin.

The Wisconsin Elections Commission reported 55,659 in-person absentee voters for Tuesday, exceeding 33,644 on the first day of early voting in 2022.

Daily absentee ballot report spreadsheets are generated by the WEC system at 7.30 a.m.

each day.

One broken down by county and another by municipality.

Find a link to the reports at WRN.com.

Vital statistics right after this.

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 information 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!

Hey!

There he is!

How you doing young man?

Yeah, I'm well.

Raw hot it.

Yeah, right.

Anyway, how was your evening?

It was good.

Your night off deserves something, did you?

Yeah!

You had to work though.

I was around here a little bit last night.

Always

working.

My hobby job, as June says.

Yes, yes.

But it pays the bill.

Well, it does.

The page of the record bill pays for the hobby for June.

I mean, there are worse hobbies.

Really?

I mean, you know, you go out and I don't know you buy tickets for games or whatever.

You know, really nothing to show other than the memory,

you

know, but I've got junk to show.

All right.

Here's a hobby that.

Yeah,

I did.

I can't afford those tractors and truck pullers.

Oh boy.

My

goodness.

I know.

Have you seen some of those crazy trucks?

They, that's amazing.

They're awesome.

They are.

They're really, really cool.

I'm totally envious.

Yeah.

I am.

I am.

Cause you know, I don't even think I could put my mower in, in a pool, you know, or yeah, my mower.

I don't know.

Maybe.

Maybe stock.

I mean my farm all, you know, 23 horse.

Right now.

Yeah.

You know, it probably failed on a garden trip.

You know, but hey, 23 horses, a lot of horses though.

Well, absolutely.

Imagine having 23 horses out there pulling.

Yeah.

But no,

I got the mighty Alice for the big jobs.

You know,

how big a horse is that?

Well, on a good day, it's, I think it's rated at like 60, but

probably

on a good day, it's probably 52 or something like that.

Yeah.

But.

I think about the, the farm all super C. My dad did a lot of farm work with that thing,

you know, but I'm

sure, you know, I mean,

but in that all they had though.

Well, we had, we had a little bigger tractor, but you know, you pull them into her and it was on the, it was on the cultivator is on the more it was on, you know, and we would run it on the elevator.

And so it did a lot of work back every day.

I

remember my first tractor that I learned to drive was a blue Ford.

Do you remember those as old blue Ford?

Okay.

Um, and that thing would

fly.

Oh yeah.

I mean, my father taught me how to drive on that.

That's how you had to learn to drive back then.

Those

were easy tractors to learn.

Oh

yes, yes.

Because you could stand right on the pedals, you know, basically, um, if it's what I'm thinking of, because they had the two and they had the eight and in the blue one was a little bit newer

than this.

And it, that thing would just, yeah, it'd go faster than, faster than my Caprice.

Yeah, there you go.

So it flew.

So anyway, yeah, did a lot of work on those too.

Yeah.

Don't forget tomorrow, big event going at Jones Chevrolet tailgate party, tailgate party, uh, celebrating the brewers, open house, great deals tomorrow.

And I think gummy's going to be behind the grill.

Oh, that's scary.

Yeah, it's scary.

So, uh-huh.

But no, uh, make sure you stop in tomorrow.

As long as he stays away from the copy machine.

Yeah, exactly.

Long story.

We're not going to get it right.

Right.

Maybe our game may have a little bit of that in it.

Maybe, maybe.

Yeah.

But yeah, you think about it.

We're a little over 24 hours away from the big brewer world series.

Yeah.

First one in 44 years.

Somebody pointed out to me that, uh, significant.

And Todd will appreciate this because his favorite player of all time is Hank Aaron, right?

44 years since the series.

Aaron wore number 44.

So

there you go.

It's all lined up.

Yeah.

And my nickname's Hank.

I mean, he can't get much better than that.

Well, that's true.

That's true.

He can't get much better.

I wish he would just call me Hank.

Right.

Well, you know, and

Henry, Henry Aaron was the opposite.

He didn't like being called.

Hey,

no,

he did not.

No, it was, it was Henry.

It was Henry.

Yeah.

So, yeah.

Yeah.

But I mean, you're a slugger too.

You know,

just a slug

or

something

else or something else yeah anyway your question of the day young man what's the funniest thing you've ever seen happen in a meeting in a meeting in a meeting oh boy I don't know that's a that's a tough one yeah I saw someone sleeping

well that probably happens from time to

time yeah are you there right

Well, then then your picture falls down.

So, yeah.

Oh, well, you know,

someone, the meeting is sometimes

true too.

Yeah.

You have those in the afternoon after, just after you've eaten, it's kind

of, ooh, you get a little bit, it doesn't matter to me though, what time it is.

I can sleep at any time.

Really?

Oh yeah, I can.

Not very long.

Right.

Right.

And somebody asked me, does, does caffeine affect you?

And it's like, no, not really.

Just,

just part

of, part of my natural habit.

Right.

I was looking for a story because this young lady sent me this yesterday about a couple that put in for Brewer tickets and they actually got them cause there was kind of a lottery system.

And then they won a, another, they won a chance and got free tickets then for another night.

That's pretty darn cool.

Do you know her quite well?

Oh

yeah.

Hey buddy

old

pal.

I'm just waiting for the ticket purchase to come through that you've put in with the company card.

Haven't come through yet, hasn't confirmed.

Probably what, maybe Sunday?

Right.

You might be from Arkansas, Phillip.

If every pin you own came with something free.

Oh, there you go.

Swag.

Yeah, with the business aim on the pin.

100%.

Yeah.

Or, you know, a seed corn hat.

Right, yes.

They still give those out.

I don't know if they do.

That was a big deal back in the day.

The old trucker hats.

A trucker hat, yeah.

I don't look good in a trucker hat.

You don't?

No.

I like the hats that actually form to your head.

Oh,

sure.

You know what I mean?

Because I don't like the one that just sticks way out there.

Right.

Like when I was in the military, it always stuck right out there.

Right out there.

Yeah.

It was, yeah.

Where I come from, you put it on and you lock it.

Yeah.

And you turn

it off to the

side,

like to the right.

Lock it.

My brother, I remember, I can't remember where we were, but a kid had his hat sideways.

He goes, you know that hat has a tag on it.

The tag goes in the back.

He looks at the hat and he, he goes, puts it on, cocks it back.

Yeah.

It's just like.

Locked it back.

Locked it

back

in place, man.

It ain't going anywhere.

Whatever.

Here's your daily dilemma, Phillip.

Uh-oh.

Would you rather sneeze glitter or have a backup beeper every time you bend over?

I'd rather sneeze glitter.

Sneeze glitter, yes.

Yes.

Party time.

Yeah.

Yeah, here we go.

Today is game day, young man.

Oh, that's right.

And again, Hank's been shopping.

And we definitely got a cool game today, Phillip.

Oh, my.

Yeah.

There's a plastic fake toilet.

Yeah, there's a fake toilet in the morning.

And we're just going to call these little things.

Emojis.

Emojis.

Oh, yeah.

How's that?

I've seen those before.

And the game is called, where did it go?

Funny toilet.

Funny toilet.

Yes.

Right.

Yes.

You know, there's

some,

some people in China have worked

hard.

I'm going to tell you, but this, this game here is right up, right

up my

alley, right up your toilet.

So, so all I can say is, so civic media gave you money from your commission.

And this is what I, that's

what you bought.

You ought to be ashamed of yourself.

Oh my

goodness.

So this right here, I ordered this, I don't know, three or four days ago and it comes really fast.

They're probably shocked that someone actually

bought

this, send it out before they change their mind.

So yeah, and actually.

It's kind of neat.

Yeah.

So you and I put the stickers on it earlier today.

Nice.

And this little guy, he needs glasses.

He does.

So anyway, actually as a flusher, doesn't make any sounds.

Does it work?

No, it just turns.

Oh, just turns.

It just, but, and then you lift it up.

That's nice.

And there you go.

You have a bullseye.

So that would, that would be about the size of like a Barbie house or, you know, G.I.

Joe.

Cave or something.

Yeah, so we could do this different ways.

We're gonna set this right here your way you take a shooter

Okay,

and you're gonna take all six of these emojis here.

It's kind of like Wiley coyotes catapult.

Yes.

Yes the lever So you're gonna try six shots.

Oh, I get all six.

Yep You're gonna try six shots Philip.

Okay a couple of more kind of peanut butter color Would it help if it's up here?

No, I don't think okay, so here we go

Number six shot number one.

All right is a light colored emoji Just short not enough And here.

Oh boy number two light emoji.

Hmm.

Hmm.

Okay number three Just a short so he's oh for three with the emojis that we are calling these needed more fiber.

Yes Are less fiber

Oh

It's either there's no in between

either, but you

drop it in front of the lid or I shoot

it over the

top, but

you, but you hit two of them earlier today.

I practiced.

Oh, man.

So you're over six over six at the toilet shot.

All right.

So Hank's going to take the red one.

All right.

And here we go.

Oh, right in the one

for one bowl.

Right.

Nice job.

Oh, miss that one.

All right.

Oh.

Not enough.

Oh, just about.

Got it on the edge of the rim.

Nope.

Okay.

All right.

One more.

Oh,

hangs up one, another round.

Well, I don't know.

I should at least try to get one in there.

I don't think, but it's similar to home trying to.

Oh, it looks like some of the, but I'm going to have to clean up in here when we're done.

Phil,

I just can't.

It's either too much

or no, no, no.

Now Hanks got to clean it up.

Oh, rimmed out.

That went on the lid.

No, no.

Okay.

Two more.

Look at that.

You're going to be trying this all day.

I tell you what, how's the guy going to get any work done today with all these emojis just laying around.

Oh,

now Hanks got to clean it up.

He does.

Get at it.

Yeah.

So yeah.

Well, fun game though.

Oh, yes.

Funny toilet game.

Yeah.

It's, it's definitely with, right.

With emojis.

Um, someday we're going to grow up

and not think that's funny.

Why?

When will that be?

I don't know.

If we haven't

by now, we're not going to.

My poor mother prayed about it

a little bit.

Well, anyway, you bought a record and I bought a toilet.

Yeah, exactly.

You want to be ashamed of yourself.

Oh, it's love line day.

Are you ready for this, Philip?

I know everybody's on their edge of their seat for this one.

Got to use this on Junie tonight.

Today is October 22nd.

Baby, you're hotter than a pop tart.

I forgot that was in the toaster.

Oh, boy.

That should work.

That's on fire.

Yeah.

That should work on Joanne.

She loves pop tarts.

Oh, does she?

Are she used to?

Yeah.

We're still finding pop tarts in

there.

Yeah.

The old station ones had caught on fire.

Toaster

caught

on fire.

With a

pop tart?

Yeah, because it went to pop up.

It didn't.

It

like

stuck

and then it just sat in there and caught fire.

And do you remember the time that someone caught the fish on fire in here?

Yes.

It took for years.

Yeah.

It was a little

stinky.

I think even worse was microwave popcorn.

Yes.

Somebody did that

time.

And was that you?

No, I think I did the fish or it was a, I thought Hernan did that.

Well, maybe it was I I set it off once because it it said

oh, yes I'm a

healthy choice meal It was supposed to be four and a half minutes and started didn't something go down on it or

something that happened

Yeah, the alarm was going off somebody called from the square and like you guys all right over there Because I outside the building and everything so that Ron was happy till we figured out how to shut it off.

Yeah, I remember that yeah smelt

yeah

I think

it wasn't smelt.

I think it was.

Hernan's was

worse though.

Yeah.

Get it smelt.

Yeah.

Well, I got it.

Yeah.

Anyway, my friend, and I think it was a Friday too, fellow by the band.

I hope everybody has a great day and everybody out there.

Be kind.

And if anybody wants to come play our emoji toilet bowl game, share this a call.

You'll take him on.

I'll take him on.

All right.

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 22nd.

These are today's vital statistics.

Diane Baumkamp, 85 of Muscaday died Sunday, October 11th.

Graveside services will be held Friday at 1 p.m.

at St.

John's Catholic Cemetery.

The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.

Diane is survived by four children, Rebecca Pafford, Anthony and Sandy Baumkamp, Teresa and Mark Wants and Roger and Christine Baumkamp, nine grandchildren, many great-grandchildren, brother Fred Gokunauer, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.

Diane Baumkamp, 85 of Muscatay.

Martin C. Smiley Fortune, 84 of Viola, died Saturday, October 17 at Vernon Manor in Verroqua.

A funeral service for Smiley will be held at 11 a.m.

Saturday, October 24th at the Viola United Methodist Church.

Visitation will be held Friday from 4-7 p.m.

at the church.

Additional visitation will be held Saturday at the church from 10 a.m.

until the time of service.

A luncheon will immediately follow the service at the Viola Community Center.

Smiley will be laid to rest at a later date at Pleasant Ridge Cemetery.

In memory of Smiley, donations are appreciated for an upcoming kidney surgery for his great-granddaughter.

Donations may be made to her savings account at the Lafarge State Bank.

She is surviving on one-third of her kidney.

The Vasateg Larson Funeral Home and Crematory in Verroqua is serving the family.

Martin C. Smiley, Fortune, 84 of Viola.

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 the 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

Gene McElrie, 77, formerly of Richland Center.

Caitlin Elizabeth Fleishauer, 41, of Spring Green and Muscaday died Sunday, October 18.

Funeral services will be held Monday at 11 a.m.

at St.

John the Baptist Catholic Church in Muscaday.

Visitation will be held Sunday at St.

John's Gym from 12 noon until 3 p.m.

and again Monday from 10 a.m.

until the procession to the church at 10.45.

Memorials in Cate's name can be directed to Muscaday EMS 701 North Wisconsin Avenue, Post Office Box 323.

Muscaday, Wisconsin 53573 or your local humane society.

The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting the family with the arrangements.

Caitlin Elizabeth Fleishauer, 41 of Springgreen and Muscaday.

John Jack Bauer, 88 of Richland Center, died Monday, October 19th at the Richland Hospital.

Funeral services will be held

Tuesday, October 27th at 11 a.m.

at St.

Mary's Catholic Church.

Burial will follow in St.

Mary's Catholic Cemetery with military graveside rights to be provided by the local Military Memorial Honors Unit.

Visitation will be held Tuesday, October 27th at St.

Mary's Catholic Church from 9 a.m.

until the time of Mass at 11.

The family suggests memorials in Jack's Name be directed to Richland County EMS or the

the Richland Center Police Department canine unit.

The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting the family with their arrangements.

Jack is survived by his sister, Audrey Pletzer, brother, Tom Bauer, sister-in-law, Donna Bauer, brothers-in-law, Dallas Johnson, Stanley and Mary Anderson, Jerry King, and Donald Flickinger, nieces, nephews, cousins, and many friends.

John Jack Bauer.

88 of Richland Center.

James Robert Jim Allbaugh of Shawno, Wisconsin, formerly of Richland Center, died Thursday, October 15th.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, October 31st at Hope Church of Shawno, beginning with coffee, donuts, and visitation from 9 a.m.

until noon.

The celebration of life will begin at noon, followed by a light luncheon.

Everyone is welcome.

Swedberg Funeral Home and Hope Church, both of Shawno, are assisting the family with the arrangements.

Jim is survived by his wife Mary, Mary, sons Todd, and Mike and Emily Ulysses, daughter Heather and Michael Galoy, sisters Peggy Allbaugh and Mary Allbaugh, two grandchildren, several nieces, nephews,

countless wrestlers, runners, assistant coaches, and friends.

James Robert Jim Allbaugh of Shawno, Wisconsin, formerly of Richland Center.

Betty Lanham, 74 of Muscaday, died Sunday, October 11th at the Richland Hospital.

Per Betty's request, no services will be held.

The Pratt Funeral Incrimination Service is assisting with the arrangements.

Betty Lanham,

74 of Muskaday.

Welcome back to the news at noon.

Community Connections will be holding a free resource fair today from three o'clock until seven at the Richlands Center Community Center.

The event is new and is designed to connect individuals and families throughout the area with free and low-cost programs, services, and community resources that can improve quality of life and strengthen local communities.

Organizations from across Wisconsin will be at the event to connect those who attend with a wide variety of community supports, including housing, employment, transportation, health care, physical and intellectual disability services, including autism supports, mental health resources, veteran services, family supports and recovery programs.

There will also be a designated

quiet hour from three until four, which will provide a calmer environment for individuals and families who may benefit from a less crowded setting.

The free event will have resources for all age groups.

If you would like assist and assist with expenses for resources, there's a GoFundMe page created by Community Connections Creator

Janita Larson, where you can donate.

If you have any questions, please contact Janita at 608-475-6504.

The Simons Recreation Complex is welcoming the community to an open house featuring free admission all weekend long.

Visitors will have full access to the complex's amenities, including the swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, racquetball courts, gymnasium fitness studio, and cardio and weight equipment rooms.

The event offers a great opportunity for community members to tour the facility, take a swim, get in a workout, and see everything new at Simons.

The open house is scheduled for Saturday from 8am until 12.30pm and Sunday from 1pm to 4.30pm.

The facility will host a variety of special activities throughout the weekend.

Attendees can take advantage of membership specials, enjoy free popcorn and

Enter prize drawings for chances to win gift certificates to local businesses, Simon's memberships, and a charcoal grill.

Additionally, Saturday morning features the second Pump Confess run walk starting at 9am, which includes chip timed 5k and 10k runs, as well as a 1.5 mile walk.

The Richland County Executive and Finance Standing Committee will convene Monday at 5pm

In the Richland County boardroom, the meeting will offer options for both in-person and virtual attendance with access details available on the county website.

The committee is set to address key local matters, including a discussion and potential action on Richland County's role in the public service commission process.

regarding the proposed 765 kilovolt transmission line.

Additionally, members will consider establishing consistent reporting mechanisms to the board from county department heads and discuss a memorandum of understanding between Richland County and the Richland School District regarding the campus gymnasium.

Reports from the county administrator and the county board chair are also scheduled.

Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, the combined state chapter of Commerce and Manufacturers Association, has awarded Representative Tony Kurtz its Working for Wisconsin Award.

The award recognizes state legislators who demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting policies that advance economic growth, job creation, and a competitive business climate in the state.

Representative Kurtz was specifically honored for his support of pro-growth initiatives during the 2020

The Working for Wisconsin Award is determined by individual voting records on pro-growth policies and reforms, regardless of political affiliation, with recipients required to score at least 70% on the WMC Legislative Scorecard.

WMC President and CEO Kurt R. Bauer commended the award recipients for championing policies that encourage investment and innovation.

WMC Executive Vice President of Government Relations Scott Manley also praised Representative Kurtz's leadership in improving Wisconsin's economy.

Representative Kurtz officially received the award September 18th at Seats Incorporated in Reedsburg.

The Wisconsin Realtors Association released its September real estate report, revealing that rising mortgage rates over the past 12 months have led to a decline in home sales and a moderation in price growth.

The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate reached 6.86% in September, marking the highest rate since January of 2025.

Consequently, existing home sales dropped by 2.4% compared to September of last year, while statewide median home prices experienced a modest 1.5% increase to $342,000.

From an economic perspective, WRA consultant Dave Clark highlighted recent monetary policy decisions, including the Federal Reserve's 25 basis point increase to the short-term federal funds rate.

He indicated that while immediate rate hikes are unlikely, subsequent rate adjustments remain contingent on core inflation trends.

Lowering inflation expectations remains a key prerequisite for bringing mortgage interest rates down.

Key market statistics from the report show mixed trends across the state.

Although new home listings dropped 5.1% over the last 12 months,

overall total listings increased by 3.8%.

On a year-to-date basis, overall sales for the first nine months of the year rose 2.8% over the same period last year, with median prices up 6%.

Housing supply improved slightly to 4.4 months statewide, though inventory levels vary significantly by geography.

Urban metropolitan areas remained

tight at four months of supply while micro-polletin counties held 4.5 months and rural areas stood at 6.1 months.

Given that six months of inventory represents a balanced market, urban regions continue to favor sellers.

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin, the PSC, is reminding electric and natural gas utility customers to make payment arrangements or seek financial help prior to the start of the annual winter heating disconnection moratorium.

Under Wisconsin state law, utility providers are barred from shutting off essential residential heating services from November 1 through April 15 for non-payment.

For households currently without power or gas, utilities are not required to restore service until payment plans are formally established.

Customers should contact their utility providers to arrange a payment schedule.

In addition, financial aid is accessible to qualifying families via the Wisconsin Home Energy Assistance Program, which offers relief for emergency energy needs, furnace repairs, and weatherization services.

The Wisconsin Department of Justice today announced that this upcoming Saturday is National Drug Takeback Day.

There are 136 events planned across Wisconsin this Saturday, with 239 participating law enforcement agencies, where Wisconsinites are encouraged to dispose of unwanted and unused medications.

With additional disposal locations around the state, drug take-back day is a particularly convenient time for many people to dispose of unused and unwanted medications, said Attorney General Josh Call.

I encourage folks to take this opportunity or to use one of the hundreds of the drug disposal locations in Wisconsin available year-round to responsibly dispose of their unneeded medications.

Drug take-back day provides a safe, convenient and responsible means of disposal while also educating the community about the potential abuse and consequences of improper storage and disposal of these medications.

The Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development released non-seasonally adjusted local employment estimates for September, showing widespread declines in unemployment rates across all of Wisconsin's metropolitan statistical areas, major cities, and counties, according to figures derived from the U.S.

Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Preliminary unemployment rates fell in all 13 of the state's metropolitan areas during September.

Over the year comparison, however, showed increased unemployment rates across all 13 metro regions.

In municipal areas, unemployment rates dropped over the month in all 35 of Wisconsin's largest cities.

Sheboygan stood out as the sole municipality to experience a decrease in its unemployment rate over the year, while 29 cities recorded higher rates and

five remained unchanged compared to September 2025.

At the county level, every one of Wisconsin's 72 counties registered a lower unemployment rate in September relative to August.

Over the past 12 months, four counties have achieved lower unemployment.

61 counties saw rate increases.

Seven counties held steady.

Today's Richland County history moment, featuring Mr. Ken Thied, he's going to be talking to us about Rodolph's Dam.

It's taken from a picture of the original Rudolph's Dam on Mill Creek, located in Balmoral, Eagle Township, Richland County, circa 1911.

This is a log dam where the mill would be pictured on the left.

And now for a Richland County Historical Society history moment.

Here's the rest of the story.

According to Richland County History Room's Facebook page, a post from March 4th

2023, the donor was the cleansing estate.

From Muscatty history of 1977, the history of the Balmoral Mill.

The first claim to this site began with two men, Robert Boyd and Monroe Fleming, who operated a sawmill.

They left Wisconsin and their claim, which was then jumped by Thomas Jefferson Parish and a Mr. Estes.

Parish was one of the first men to be located in Muscaday.

Their mill, built in 1841 to 1842, was the very first of many mills to be built in Richland County.

They sold their property to Henry Moore, and it was purchased from Moore by Charles Rodolph in 1852.

In 1875, Charles moved to Muscaday and the mill was operated by his son.

Thus the name Road Off Smell would be maintained.

Three times in the next few years, the mill burned and resulted in what would be criminal court cases that gained statewide notoriety.

In 1898, the mill

a three-story building, started to produce electricity for the village of Muscaday from a small generator hooked to a water wheel.

In July of 1907, heavy rains caused the Mel Creek to rise over the top of the natural neck of land which connected the north end of the old rock and the wooden dam built that in 1890 where they had cut out 70 feet of earth.

In early August, it was rumored that Rodolf would sell the water power.

The mill, the electrical light plant, for just $10,000.

On September 11, 1907, the village of Muscaday bought the property to prevent more flooding.

They included a 70-foot dam connected to the mill.

That, of course, is referred to as the old dam.

An interesting sidelight to the purchase of the dam was that it included a half acre of land on the right side of Highway 80 and just above the home of a Mr. Glenn Raycobb.

This half mile was a stone quarry that furnished the stone for Charles Rodeauf and later the village of Muscatay to be used in constructing the dam.

Mr. Recubb brought this to the attention of what was verified by Mr. Joe Drone, who was the superintendent of the Muscatay Light and Water Commission.

Mr. Drone says that the Courthouse Records at Richland Center prove that the village of Muscatay still owned the rock quarry.

On October 25th, 1907, the lights went on in Muscatay, that being until January 12th, 1908, when the 30 foot of dam was knocked out by ice and water.

The rush of waters flooding in that early winter of 1908 left the mill pond dry.

Besides putting Muscatay back in the dark again, well, so they built a new dam.

What was built

cost them only $2,850.

It had a new wheelhouse and was erected with a new, much larger generator that was installed.

According to Mr. Joe Drone, who has possession, an ad put out by the Muscaday boosters concerning the bond issue for 24-hour electric service to the time that Muscaday would have the dam repaired and rebuilt.

In 1921, the log dam was replaced and a new concrete dam was installed, that costing about $16,000.

In 1922, the feed mill was energized and in 1924, the village of Muscatay signed a contract with Interstate Power Company for the power supplement, a little power plant that being located in Balmoral.

The interstate subsection, as it was called, was situated north of the Virgil Bum Camp home on the west side of Muscatay and right to the south of what is Pine Street.

Every time a cloud appeared in the sky, our power supply ended.

And finally, it was in the 1930s that the village decided to generate their own electricity using diesel engines.

At the time of the article that this was written, Wisconsin Power and Light provided electricity to the village of Muscaday.

Listen next week for the history of Richland County covering Judge David Strickland and the Park and Richland Center that bears that

family's name.

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 Ake 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 one, Richland Center, Wisconsin, 535-81.

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

Thank you as always, Mr. Feet.

The Universities of Wisconsin Presidential Search Committee has officially named three finalists in its search for the next system president.

The candidates selected to advance in the process are Dr. Steven Gareth Holley, Executive Vice Chancellor and Chief Operating Officer at the University of Mississippi.

Dr. Tanjanita L. Johnson, Senior Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs at the University of Alabama System, and Dr. Bernard J. Savarisi, Vice President for Academic Affairs, Research and Student Success at the University of Tennessee System.

Board of Regents Vice President

Ashok Rye, who chairs the 24-member search committee, expressed confidence in the group of finalists, noting that they bring the necessary leadership, vision, and experience to guide the state's 13 public universities.

Board of Regents President Kyle Weatherly also praised the thorough review process, which incorporated valuable feedback gathered from campus listening sessions to help identify candidates who meet the needs of the system's diverse constituencies.

Public forums featuring the finalists are scheduled to take place next week, offering community members opportunities to participate either in person or virtually via Zoom.

On Monday, events will be hosted at UW Parkside.

Beginning at 8 a.m.

on Tuesday, the forums will move to UW Madison's Great Hall in Memorial Union, also beginning at 8 a.m.

In addition to the public presentations, candidates will participate in formal interviews with the search committee, campus chancellors, and system administration staff.

The public is encouraged to attend the sessions, view live streams or watch recorded broadcasts, and submit feedback via the 2026 presidential search website.

Following the interviews and public forums, the search committee will forward its recommendation to the full Board of Regents, which holds final authority on hiring the new president to succeed interim president Renee Wachter.

Fresh off a Tony award-winning season, American Players Theatre in Spring Green has revealed an ambitious nine-play lineup for its 48th season set to run from June through November 2027.

building on immense artistic momentum and strong community support.

The upcoming season blends classic masterworks, sharp comedies, and groundbreaking contemporary drama across its outdoor Hill Theater and indoor Touchstone Theater stages.

The summer season outdoors at the Hill Theater kicks off in June, with William Shakespeare's spirited farce the comedy of errors directed by core company member David Daniel following his acclaimed 2025 production of A Midsummer Night's Dream.

The high-energy laughter continues with Mark Camillotti's Camillotti's

1960s French Farce, Boeing, Boeing, translated by Beverly Cross and Francis Evans and helmed by director Shannon Cochran.

In July, George Bernard Shaw's sharp social commentary returns to the Hill stage for the first time since 2018 with Mrs. Warren's profession directed by Laura Gordon.

August brings the Wisconsin premiere of James Ihm's Pulitzer Prize-winning, Fat Ham, a clever backyard barbecue reimagining of Hamlet, directed by Tyrone Phillips.

The Hill lineup concludes with Shakespeare's magical final romance, The Tempest, last produced at APT in 2011 and now directed by core company member, Laura Rook, reflecting on the organization's current trajectory.

The staff highlighted the strong bond among the theater's artists, staff, and dedicated audience that culminated in bringing home the regional Tony Award.

Full schedule details for the 2027 season will be released in January with tickets opening to returning patrons in March via americanplayers.org.

Governor Tony Evers, together with the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, announced that $69.5 million in grants were awarded through the latest round of the Agricultural Roads Improvement Program.

Funding provided by the 2025-27 biennial budget will support 39 projects across 32 Wisconsin counties.

focused on improving local rural roads, bridges, and culverts used by farmers and producers to transport agricultural and forestry products that support Wisconsin's more than $116 billion agricultural industry statewide.

The latest cycle of funding brings the total number of projects funded by AREP to 161 across 60 of Wisconsin's 72 counties.

All sold, more than 30 million tons of agricultural products, valued at $14.8 billion, are transported on ARIP awarded roads each year.

Under Governor Evers' leadership, the state has improved more than 9,600 miles of roads and 2,400 bridges statewide since 2019.

It is now easier than ever for Wisconsin residents to prepare for the devastating financial consequences of flooding.

Today FEMA launched a new tool, allowing individuals to purchase a national flood insurance program policy completely online through Floodsmart.gov.

The service is accessible nationwide to anyone living in one of the nearly 22,700 participating communities.

This initiative aligns with the America First Resilience Strategy, which emphasizes a risk-informed approach, empowering citizens to protect their property and reduce dependence on federal assistance.

FEMA Administrator Cameron Hamilton highlighted that the digital purchase option cuts bureaucracy and lets users obtain a quote and policy in just minutes.

Through the new self-service digital purchase option on floodsmart.gov, users can quickly obtain a quote by providing basic property details.

Applicants then have the flexibility to finalize the purchase online immediately or share quote details with a licensed insurance agent.

Floods remain the most common and costly natural disaster in the United States, and this streamlined process aims to expand coverage among policyholders, including the roughly 10,800 policyholders in Wisconsin who currently carry $2.66 billion in coverage.

To learn more or request a quote, visit floodsmart.gov.

In a major step toward increasing transparency in the agricultural sector, U.S.

Secretary of Agriculture Brooke Rollins announced key updates to the USDA's livestock mandatory reporting cash cattle reports.

The move aligns with executive orders aimed at supporting American ranchers and promoting fair competition in livestock markets.

Over the past two decades, the cattle industry has seen a dramatic drop in negotiated cash trade, falling from over 50% of transactions in 2005 to less than 18%

In 2025, this transition toward formula-based purchasing has created challenges for market confidentiality and reduced the volume of reportable price data essential for fair pricing models.

To address these challenges, the Agricultural Marketing Service will introduce a Consolidated Regional Report starting October 26 by aggregating data from Colorado, Texas, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Kansas

The agency aims to supply market participants with clearer, more reliable pricing insight without imposing additional reporting burdens on packers.

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 22nd.

These are today's vital statistics.

Diane Baumkamp, 85 of Muscaday, died Sunday, October 11th.

Graveside services will be held Friday, October 23 at 1 p.m.

at St.

John's Catholic Cemetery.

The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family.

Diane Baumkamp, 85 of Muscaday.

Martin C. Smiley Fortune, 84 of Viola, died Saturday, October 17 at Vernon Manor in Verroqua.

A funeral service for Smiley will be held at 11 a.m.

Saturday, October 24 at the Viola United Methodist Church.

Visitation will be held Friday from 4 until 7 p.m.

at the church.

Additional visitation will be held from 10 a.m.

until the time of service Saturday.

A luncheon will immediately follow the service at the Viola Community Center.

Smiley will be laid to rest at a later date at Pleasant Bridge Cemetery.

Martin C. Smiley Fortune, 84 of Viola.

Connie Jean 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.

Connie Jean Mackelry, 77, formerly of Richland Center.

Caitlin Elizabeth Fleishauer.

41 of Spring Green and Muscaday died Sunday, October 18th.

Funeral services will be held Monday, October 26th at 11 a.m.

at St.

John the Baptist Catholic Church in Muscaday.

Visitation will be held Sunday at St.

John's Gym from 12 noon until 3 p.m.

and again Monday from 10 a.m.

until the procession to the church at 10.45.

The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family.

Caitlin Elizabeth Fleishauer, 41, of Spring Green and Muscaday.

John Jack Bauer, 88, of Richland Center died Monday, October 19th, at the Richland Hospital.

Funeral services will be held Tuesday.

October 27th at 11 a.m.

at St.

Mary's Catholic Church in Richland Center.

Burial will follow in St.

Mary's Catholic Cemetery with military graveside rights to be provided by the local Military Memorial Honors Unit.

Visitation will be held Tuesday at St.

Mary's Catholic Church from 9 a.m.

until the time of Mass at 11.

The family suggests memorials in Jack's name be directed to Richland County EMS or the Richland Center Police Department canine unit.

The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting the family.

Jack Bauer 88 of Richland Center.

James Robert

Jim Allbaugh of Shawnaw, Wisconsin, formerly of Richland Center, died Thursday, October 15th.

A celebration of life will be held Saturday, October 31st at Hope Church of Shawnaw, beginning with coffee, donuts, and visitation from 9 a.m.

until noon.

The celebration of life will begin at noon, followed by a light luncheon.

Everyone is welcome.

Swedberg Funeral Home and Hope Church, both of Shawno, are assisting the family with the arrangements.

James Robert Jim Olbaugh of Shawno, Wisconsin, formerly of Richland Center.

Betty Lanham, 74 of Muscaday, died Sunday, October 11th at the Richland Hospital.

Per Betty's request, no services will be held.

The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting with the arrangements.

Betty Lanham, 74 of Muscaday.

This concludes today's vital statistics.

Good evening, everyone, for WRCO News.

I'm Todd Copernall.

An ethics complaint has officially been filed with the Wisconsin Ethics Commission against Representative Derrick Van Orden.

The filing alleges that Van Orden published an AI-generated graphic featuring opponent Rebecca Cook without including a mandatory disclosure.

marking a direct violation of Wisconsin's campaign ethics regulations.

The complaint comes weeks after legal counsel for Cook sent a formal cease and desist letter September 30th.

That notice warned against the continued dissemination of defamatory AI deepfakes and signaled that further violations would result in formal legal action to address the misconduct.

In a public statement, Cook criticized Van Orden for resorting to deceptive media rather than addressing key local issues such as farm protection, small business support and AI data center expansion.

The complaint was formally submitted by Eau Claire resident Cassandra Butzler.

The Simon's Recreation Complex is welcoming the community to an open house, featuring free admission all weekend long.

Visitors will have full access to the complex's amenities, including the swimming pool, hot tub, sauna, racquetball courts, gymnasium fitness studio, and cardio and weight equipment rooms.

The event offers a great opportunity for community members to tour the facility, take a swim,

Get in a workout and see everything new at Simons.

The open house is scheduled for Saturday, October 24th from 8 a.m.

to 12 30 p.m.

and Sunday from 1 until 4 30.

The facility will host a variety of special activities throughout the weekend.

Attendees can take advantage of membership specials, enjoy free popcorn and enter prize drawings for chances to win gift certificates to local businesses.

Simon's memberships and a charcoal grill.

Additionally, Saturday morning features the second

Pump Confess Run Walk, starting at 9 a.m.

which includes chip timed, 5k, and 10k runs, as well as a 1.5 mile walk.

Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce, the combined State Chamber of Commerce and Manufacturers Association, has awarded Representative Tony Kurtz its Working for Wisconsin Award.

The award recognizes state legislators who demonstrate a strong commitment to supporting policies that advance economic growth, job creation, and a competitive business climate in the state.

Representative Kurtz was specifically honored for his support of pro-growth initiatives during the 2025-2026 legislative session.

The Working for Wisconsin Award is determined by individual voting records on pro-growth policies and reforms, regardless of political affiliation, with recipients required to score at least 70 percent on the WMC Legislative Scorecard.

WMC President and CEO Kurt R. Bauer commended the award recipients for championing policies that encourage investment and innovation.

WMC Executive Vice President of Government Relations Scott Manley also praised Representative Kurtz's leadership in improving Wisconsin's economy.

Representative Kurtz officially received the award on September 18th at Seats Incorporated in Reedsburg.

The Wisconsin Realtors Association released its September 2026 real estate report, revealing that rising mortgage rates over the past 12 months have led to a decline in home sales and a moderation in price growth.

The average 30-year fixed mortgage rate reached 6.86 percent in September, marking the highest rate since January of 2025.

Consequently, existing home sales dropped by 2.4 percent compared to September of last year, while statewide median home prices experienced a modest 1.5 percent increase to $342,000.

From an economic perspective, WRA consultant Dave Clark highlighted recent monetary policy decisions, including the Federal Reserve's

25 basis point increase to the short-term federal funds rate.

He indicated that while immediate rate hikes are unlikely, subsequent rate adjustments remain contingent on core inflation trends.

Lowering inflation expectations remains a key prerequisite for bringing mortgage interest rates down.