
Today is October 26th.
These are today's vital statistics.
Caitlyn Elizabeth Fleishauer, 41, of Springgreen and Muscaday died Sunday, October 18th.
Funeral services will be held today at 11 a.m.
at St.
John the Baptist Catholic Church in Muscaday.
Visitation was held yesterday at St.
John's Gym.
We'll be held again today from 10 a.m.
until the procession to the church at 10.45.
Memorials in Cait's name can be directed to Muscaday EMS or your local Humane Society.
Katelyn Elizabeth Flyshower 41 of Spring Green and Muscat A.
John Jack Bauer, 88 of Richland Center, died Monday, October 19th at the Richland Hospital.
Funeral services will be held tomorrow 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 rides to be provided by the local Military Memorial Honors Unit.
Visitation will be held tomorrow at St.
Mary's from 9 a.m.
until the time of
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 Incrimination Service is assisting the family.
Jack Bauer, 88 of Richland Center.
Thomas J. Tommy Nalapinsky, 92 of Muscaday, died Wednesday.
October 21st at Dove Health Care in Fenimore.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 28th at 10 a.m.
at the Pratt Funeral Home in Muscaday with burial to follow in the St.
John's Catholic Cemetery.
Thomas J. Tommy Nalapinsky, 92 of Muscaday.
Ellen Grace Klingeman-Clock,
83 of Rockbridge died Thursday, October 22 in Mandovi.
Funeral services will be held Thursday at 11 a.m.
at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Woodstock Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Thursday, October 29 at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 9 a.m.
until the time of service.
Ellen Grace Klingeman Clock 83.
Rockbridge.
Lois Ruth
Moe Anderson Erson, 88th of Richland Center, died Thursday, October 22nd.
Services will be held Friday, October 30th at 11 o'clock at St.
John's Lutheran Church in Richland Center.
Visitation will be held Thursday from 3 p.m.
until 7 p.m.
with a short service by the Delta Kappa Gamma Society at 7 o'clock at St.
John's Lutheran Church.
Visitation will also be held at St.
John's
Friday from 10 o'clock until the time of service at 11.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St.
John's Lutheran Church of Richland Center, or Youth with a Mission.
The Pratt Funeral Anchormation Service is assisting the family.
Lois, Ruth, Moe, Anderson, Erson, 88 of Richland Center.
Dorothy Elaine Munn's 96th of Bear Valley died Saturday, October 24th at her home.
A mass of Christian burial will be held Friday, October 30th at 11 a.m.
at St.
Killian's Catholic Church.
in Bear Valley with visitation from 9.30 a.m.
until the time of service.
Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Memorials may be given to the St.
Killian's Catholic Cemetery Association.
The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family arrangements.
Dorothy Elaine Muntz, 96 of Bear Valley.
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 Shawnaw, are assisting the family with arrangements.
James Robert Jim Albaugh of Shawnaw, Wisconsin, formerly of Richland Center.
Kimberly Kim Ann Fry, 55 of Richland Center, died Tuesday, October 20th at UW Hospital in Madison.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday at 11 a.m.
at Clary Memorial Funeral Home.
with visitation beginning at 9 a.m.
and continuing until the time of service burial will follow in the Basswood Cemetery.
Kimberley Kim Ann Fry 55 of Richland Center.
Randall Nimox 80 of Richland Center died October 25th at the Richland Hospital.
Funeral services are pending with the Clary Memorial Funeral Home in Richland Center.
Randall Nimix, 80 of Richland Center.
And in birth news from the Richland Hospital, a daughter was born, Olivia Kay to Ashley Rutherford and John Rutherford.
Congratulations.
Good morning, everyone.
For WRCO News, I'm Todd Copernall, 51 degrees.
Right now in Richland Center, headed to a high today of 59 in the news.
A 32-year-old Hillsboro man was injured Saturday morning following a single vehicle rollover crash east of Lafarge in Vernon County.
According to Vernon County Sheriff Roy Torgerson, the crash occurred at approximately 8.30 a.m.
along State Highway 82 between Newburn Avenue and Canyon Avenue in the town of Union.
Authorities reported that Andres P. Gonzalez was operating a Silver 2022 Chevrolet Trail Blazer
bound when he swerved to avoid hitting a deer.
The SUV traveled off the right side of the roadway, became airborne and struck an embankment.
The vehicle then flipped end over end multiple times before coming to rest in a field approximately 425 feet from where it initially left the road.
Gonzalez, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, was flown by Amplify EMS
to amplify health by Gundersen in La Crosse for medical treatment.
Although investigators believe Gonzalez was wearing a seat belt at the time of the crash, he was located outside the vehicle when emergency responders arrived on the scene.
Assisting the Vernon County Sheriff's Office were the LaFarge Fire Department, LaFarge Area Ambulance and Amplify EMS Air.
Passersby and a local farm family also stopped to render immediate assistance prior to
the arrival of first responders.
The crash remains under active investigation with follow-up support requested from the Wisconsin State Patrol technical reconstruction unit.
The Richland Center General Government Committee is scheduled to meet
Tuesday at 5.30 p.m.
in the council room at the city municipal building.
The committee will address several routine items alongside important municipal updates including the review and approval of the September 22nd meeting minutes and payment of the bills.
Key action items on the agenda invoice status updates on the property conveyance
of 929 West Seminary Street to Lydia's House Ministries, the ongoing Walmart property tax assessment challenge pending legal litigation in Richland County Circuit Court and proposed room tax ordinance amendments.
In addition, the committee will review contracts and agreements such as the reassignment of a developer agreement for 291 North Jefferson Street, the 2027 EMS contract with Richland County,
and a draft memorandum of understanding regarding the redevelopment of the Richland campus.
Finally, members will discuss collective bargaining matters concerning a tentative agreement with the Richland Center Professional Police Association.
The Richland School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting on Wednesday, commencing at 7 p.m.
in the Richland Center High School, IMC.
Throughout the evening, trustees will review reports from board members and the student council, approve meeting minutes from September 23rd and address multiple financial updates, including the statement of cash and invoices, the business officials report, the adoption of the 2026-27 budget, and an amendment to the tax vote resolution for district operations.
The Consent Agenda covers key donations, personnel matters such as the hiring of a cross-categorical teacher, and the resignation of a business education teacher.
early college credit program requests for the spring and open enrollment requests.
Additionally, the board will discuss district vacancies, spring 2027 board elections, snow plowing bid awards and referendum project updates before considering action items on referendum budget changes, state mandated private school voucher transparency resolutions, and potentially including informational inserts regarding voucher transparency
with property tax bills.
The Richland Hospital and Clinics recently celebrated extraordinary nursing care by presenting Heather Tomey, RN, with the prestigious Daisy Award.
The honor recognizes nurses who demonstrate exceptional compassion, skill, and dedication
in caring for patients and their families.
The award was presented at a ceremony attended by colleagues, organizational leaders, family members, and fellow nominees, highlighting the impactful work performed by nurses across the facility every day.
Ken Nelson, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer at the Richland Hospital and Clinics, noted the high quality of all of this year's nominations, emphasizing that Heather stood out for the profound impact she made during a particularly difficult moment.
Heather's nomination was submitted by hospice nurse Carrie Long, who detailed how Heather provided extraordinary clinical and emotional support to both a patient and their family.
In addition to honoring Heather, the event recognized fellow nominees, Skyla Oneless, Kailin Hellebrand, Darren Buchholz, Mary Jo Kusmo, Amanda Williamson, Dana Falk, Paul Thale, Charlene Shaw, and Laurie Kragko.
A special tribute was also given to retiring nurse Darren Buchholz for his 10 years of dedicated service.
The celebration concluded with the traditional sharing of sweet roles, honoring the lasting impression nurses leave on their community.
The Ithaca School District faculty and staff completed comprehensive CPR, AED, and first aid training in partnership with the City of Reedsburg Ambulance Team.
October 12th, organized through school nurse Tiffany Bingham.
The session provided essential life-saving skills to district employees, led by instructors in paramedics Kevin Rockweiler and Abby Ryder.
The program featured hands-on practice with practical instruction designed to prepare staff for emergency medical situations.
With the completion of this session, certified personnel now make up half of the district's workforce, significantly strengthening emergency
preparedness for both the school and the surrounding community.
District representatives expressed deep appreciation to the Reedsburg Ambulance Team for their time, expertise and ongoing partnership in keeping the community safe.
Registration is now open for garden plots for the 2027 season at River Valley Area Community Gardens in Spring Green.
Plot rental for the season is 10 by 10 plots for $20, 10 by 20 for $40, and 20 by 20 plots are $60.
The fee includes straw mulch, use of the rototiller and other tools, manure and compost, organic fertilizer, water to each plot section, and hoses and
Hoses and friendly experienced gardeners who are always ready to offer advice or a hand.
Print registration forms are available in the info box at the gardens located in the 900 block of Northwestmoore, Spring Green.
Forms may also be requested via email at info at RVACG.org.
All are welcome.
Governor Tony Evers announced that the Wisconsin State Building Commission has approved approximately $254 million in funding for key state-owned facility projects.
This allocation targets critical infrastructure updates, campus enhancements, and modernizations across multiple Wisconsin counties, reflecting an ongoing effort to invest in the state's educational and community resources.
A major highlight of the approved package is a public-private partnership at the University of Wisconsin-Madison to construct two modern residence halls.
Built on state land, this private development will offer around 1,690 student beds and a 400-seat dining facility, addressing long-standing campus housing shortages and reducing reliance on temporary accommodations by fall, 2029.
Significant improvements are also slated for state care and defense facilities.
The Winnebago Mental Health Institute will receive utility and service tunnel updates to ensure secure infrastructure for the Wisconsin Resource Center.
In addition, the Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs will see remodeling at the Madison Readiness Center alongside funding releases to complete design plans for a new Readiness Center in Wisconsin Rapids.
Vital statistics right after this.
Brought to you by Chets, Feed, Seed and Such, Richland Hospital, Cardinal Glass CG, and by New Tech Carts.
It's joke day with Phil and Hank, so brace yourself.
These jokes aren't just corny, they're full-on field-tested.
If you're groaning, laughing, or questioning your life choices, you're doing it right.
It's Monday's Roundup.
Making Mondays just a little less Monday-y.
It's time for the roundup
he
Hi,
doing?
I'm good, buddy, and you?
I'm good.
I don't know if I told this one on the air yet or not, but what kind of pants does a ghost wear?
No, a holy pants.
Just a pair of normals.
Oh, my gosh.
In case I told it, I'll give you a bonus.
What is a vampire's favorite fruit?
A nectarine.
A nectarine.
Good
There you go.
Anyway.
And then volleyball was a good match between Richland Center and River Valley.
River Valley coming out on Saturday.
So River Valley faces Verroqua Thursday.
That'll be a good one.
I've never seen this before, but in the beginning of the game, they were playing the national anthem off a laptop.
Yeah.
And it's just like, they just won't stop.
I'm not allowed to say gritty.
Yeah.
But it's just, they believe there's, you know, yeah, absolutely.
Yeah, just amazing.
Boy, can they, can they, I don't know what else to say.
And again, I picked them in four, you and I, you had them in five, I think.
Yeah, not bad.
Not, but we have some, we have some jokes that we have to say because of Halloween jokes.
What is the problem with twin witches?
I don't know.
You never know which is which.
Oh, yeah.
My, uh-huh.
Today's Chet's Chucklespot probably sponsored by Chet's Chuckles, feed and seed and such.
Something like that.
Something like that.
What did one bat say to the other bat?
bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful bootiful
bootiful bootiful bootiful
bootiful bootiful
bootiful
If you currently have splinters in your fingers, no, look at mine.
There's one there and I have one there and one there.
I have three.
Wow.
Yeah.
So you just leave them there for posterity or what?
Well, until they come out.
Oh, you just let them go.
I lift out three in that one.
Did you see that
Hello friends, Ellie here at Chets Feed Seed and Such.
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Come try our Wolf Pupsicle molds and treat holders to keep your pup busy on these fall days.
Buy our pre-made treat mixes or make your own at home.
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Ask about our different cat and dog foods that will fit any of your pet's health needs.
From our fuzzy family to yours, without you, there wouldn't be us.
Stop in a day at 880 North Orange Street or give us a call at 608-647-8833.
Well,
gas
something.
But
Here.
All right.
Here we go.
Here's to the kicker for the day.
Here we go.
Boss.
The boss says, we need someone who's good at making excuses.
Can you give me the example of your work?
Hank replies, I'm sorry boss, I can't answer that right now because I'm actually late for my own wedding.
My car just turned into a giant pumpkin and I'm currently talking to you through a hologram because I'm literally in space.
Boss goes, is confused and goes, wait, none of that is true.
I go exactly and yet you sit there and listen to me for 30 seconds without interrupting.
Now imagine what I can do for your customers when our products are late.
There you go.
Alright my man.
I hope you guys have a great day.
Phillip if you need me I will be
Good evening, everyone, for WRCO News.
I'm Todd Copernall.
The Wisconsin Department of Justice, along with the Federal Trade Commission and 19 other states, has filed a lawsuit against Dollar General Corporation.
The suit alleges that the retailer engages in deceptive pricing practices by charging customers higher prices at checkout than those listed on store shelves, price tags, and advertisements, resulting in millions of dollars in overcharges for consumers.
According to the complaint, Dollar General has repeatedly mislabeled prices and overcharged consumers over several years despite widespread internal knowledge of the issue.
Thousands of stores allegedly extracted millions of dollars in unlawful overcharges while lacking sufficient safeguards to prevent these errors.
Furthermore, despite receiving tens of thousands of customer complaints,
The company failed to implement adequate corrective policies.
The FTC alleges that these practices violate the FTC Act and the Graham Leach-Bliley Act, while Wisconsin asserts violations of state consumer protection and weights and measures statutes.
Enforcement actions rely heavily on inspections conducted by state and municipal inspectors, as well as consumer reports.
Consumers wishing to file a weights and measures complaint can do so by visiting www.datcp.wi.gov or calling 608-224-4942.
In the legal dispute between the City of Richland Center and Richland County, Judge Daniel G. Wood of Adams County has ruled in favor of the city regarding its petition for a writ of mandamus.
The court found that the city met its legal burden, leading Judge Wood to sign the writ for service upon the respondents.
Richland County then faced a 14-day window following service to either approve the city's reimbursement claim or move to quash the order.
The case addresses county funding for maintaining 1,495 veterans graves in Bowen Cemetery and Richland Center Cemetery, covering the period from July 1st, 2025 to June 30th, 2026.
Although state statute sets a September 1st annual reporting deadline for municipalities, the city's documentation was submitted September 14th.
County Clerk Jeffrey Harrison initially rejected the $17,859.83 reimbursement request based on the late filing, taking the position that state law provided no flexibility for deadline extensions.
In its court filing, the city argued that the statutory deadline is directory rather than mandatory and that minor procedural delays should not erase the county's underlying obligation to support veterans' grave care.
The city emphasized that the submission included all required data and caused no prejudice to the county.
In response, the county moved to quash the writ and oral ruling is now scheduled for November 3rd.
at 10 30 a.m.
The City of Richland Center Planning Commission will convene for a public meeting Wednesday, October 28th at 5 30 p.m.
in the council room at the municipal building.
The agenda includes multiple public hearings and formal consideration of land use applications and regulatory updates.
The first set of items involves a certified survey map application submitted by the Wisconsin Corporation of Seventh Day Adventists, which will begin with a public hearing followed by discussion and potential action on the proposed land division.
The commission will also hold a public hearing regarding a conditional use application submitted by Calary LLC.
Action on this application will follow the public hearing.
Additionally, the meeting will feature a public hearing and action item concerning the repeal and replacement of Chapter 452, the floodplain zoning ordinance, as mandated by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources.
The Richland Hospital and Clinics has achieved national recognition from Becker's Hospital Review for outstanding patient ratings in nurse communication, highlighting the dedication and compassionate care provided by its nursing staff.
Based on recent data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems Survey, 548 hospitals across the country earned a top five star rating for nurse communication.
Wisconsin led all states with 41 distinguished hospitals, including the Richland Hospital and Clinics.
This rating is especially meaningful because it comes directly from our patients, said Ken Nielsen, vice president and chief nursing officer.
They are telling us how well our nurses listened, explained information and treated them with courtesy and respect.
Those qualities remain at the heart of our mission.
Our patients above all else.
Nelson added that receiving the distinction again demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the nursing team to ensure patients feel heard, respected, and fully informed throughout their care.
Alex Marshall, nursing director, emphasized the value of meaningful daily interactions.
We never underestimate the power of a bedside conversation, a patient education moment, or simply taking time to listen, Marshall noted, pointing out that recent patient feedback
frequently praised nurses for clear explanations and courteous care.
Former patient Kelly Bird shared similar appreciation for her experience, the care I received during my hospital visit, I can't say enough good things.
I knew I was in the best hands.
The Richland Center General Government Committee is scheduled to meet Tuesday at 5.30 p.m.
in the council room at the City Municipal Building.
The committee will address several routine items alongside important municipal updates, including the review and approval of the September 22 meeting minutes.
and the payment of bills.
Key action items on the agenda involve status updates on the property conveyance of 929 West Seminary Street to Lydia's House Ministries, the ongoing Walmart property tax assessment challenge pending legal litigation in Richland County Circuit Court and proposed room tax ordinance amendments.
In addition, the committee will review contracts and agreements such as the reassignment of a developer agreement for 291 North
Street, the 2027 EMS contract with Richland County, and a draft memorandum of understanding regarding the redevelopment of the Richland campus.
Finally, members will discuss collective bargaining matters concerning a tentative agreement with the Richland Center Professional Police Association.
The Richland School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting Wednesday, October 28, commencing at 7 p.m.
in the Richland Center High School, IMC.
Throughout the evening, trustees will review reports from board members and the student council, approve meeting minutes from September 23rd, and address multiple financial updates, including the statement of cash and invoices, the business officials report, the adoption of the 2026-27 budget, and an amendment to the tax vote resolution for district operations.
The consent agenda covers key donations, personnel matters such as the hiring of a cross-categorical teacher, and the resignation of a business education teacher.
Early college credit program requests for Spring 2027 and open enrollment requests.
Additionally, the Board will discuss district vacancies, spring 2027 Board elections, snow plowing bid awards, and referendum project updates before considering action items on referendum budget changes, state mandated private school voucher transparency resolutions, and potentially including informational inserts regarding voucher transparency with property tax bills.
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 26th.
These are today's vital statistics.
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 the St.
Mary's Catholic Cemetery with military graveside rites 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 with the arrangements.
Jack Bauer, 88 of Richland Center.
Thomas J.
Tommy Nalapinsky, 92 of Muscaday, died Wednesday, October 21 at Dove Health Care in Fenimore.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 28 at 10 a.m.
at the Pratt Funeral Home in Muscaday, with burial to follow in the St.
John's Catholic Cemetery.
Thomas J. Tommy Nalapinsky, 92 of Muscaday.
Ellen Grace Klingeman Clock, 83 of Rockbridge, died Thursday, October 22 in Mandovi.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 29 at 11 a.m.
at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Woodstock Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Thursday at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 9 a.m.
until the time of service.
Ellen Grace Klingeman Clock, 83 of Rockbridge, died Thursday, October 22 in Mandovi.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 29 at 11 a.m.
at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Woodstock Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Thursday at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 9 a.m.
until the time of service.
Ellen Grace Klingeman Clock, 83 of Rockbridge, died Thursday, October 22 in Mandovi.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, October 29 at 11 a.m.
at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Woodstock Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Thursday at the Pratt Memorial
Klingerman Clock 83 of Rockbridge.
Lois Ruth Mo Anderson Erson 88 of Richland Center died Thursday.
Services will be held Friday October 30th at 11 o'clock at St.
John's Lutheran Church in Richland Center.
Visitation will be held Thursday from 3 p.m.
until 7 p.m.
with a short service by the Delta Kappa Gamma Society at 7 o'clock at St.
John's Lutheran Church.
Visitation will also be held at St.
John's Lutheran Church Friday from 10 a.m.
until the time of service at 11.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St.
John's Lutheran Church of Richland Center or to Youth with a Mission.
The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting the family with the arrangements.
Lois, Ruth, Moe, Anderson, Urson, 88 of Richland Center.
Dorothy Elaine Munns, 96 of Bear Valley died Saturday, October 24 at home.
A mass of Christian burial will be held Friday, October 30, at 11 a.m.
at St.
Killian's Catholic Church in Bear Valley, with visitation from 9.30 a.m.
until the time of service.
Burial will follow in the church cemetery.
Memorials may be given to the St.
Killian's Catholic Cemetery Association.
The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements.
Dorothy
Elaine Munz, 96 of Bear Valley.
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.
The family is planning a local gathering of remembrance in Richland Center in the coming weeks.
When a date, location, and time are finalized, they will release the information here via WRCO.
Swedberg funeral home and Hope Church, both of Shawno, are assisting the family with arrangements.
James Robert Jim Allbaugh of Shawno, Wisconsin, formerly of Richland Center.
Kimberly Ann Kim Fry, 55 of Richland Center, died Tuesday, October 20 at UW Hospital.
in Madison.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, October 31st at 11 a.m.
at Clary Memorial Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 9 a.m.
and continuing until the time of service.
Burial will follow at the Basswood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family.
Kimberly Ann Kim Fry 55 of Richland Center
Randall Nimix, 80 of Richland Center, died October 25th at the Richland Hospital.
Funeral services are pending with the Clary Memorial Funeral Home in Richland Center.
Randall Nimix, 80 of Richland Center.
And in birth news from the Richland Hospital, a daughter, Olivia Kay, was born to Ashley and John Rutherford.
Congratulations.
This concludes today's Vidal Statistics.
Good afternoon, everyone, for WRCO News.
I'm Todd Copper.
In the legal dispute between the city of Richland Center and Richland County, Judge Daniel G. Wood of Adams County ruled in favor of the city regarding its petition for a writ of mandamus, the court found that the city had met its legal burden.
Leading judge would design the writ for service upon the respondents.
Richland County then faced a 14 day window following service to either approve the city's reimbursement claim or to move to quash the order.
The case addresses county funding for maintaining 1,495 veterans graves in Bowen Cemetery and Richland Center Cemetery, covering the period from July 1st of 2025 to June 30th of this year.
Although state statute sets a September 1st annual reporting deadline for municipalities, the city's documentation was submitted September 14th.
County clerk Jeffrey Harrison initially rejected the $17,859.83 reimbursement request based on the late filing
taking the position that state law provided no flexibility for deadline extensions.
In its court filing, the city argued that the statutory deadline is directory rather than mandatory and that minor procedural delays should not erase the county's underlying obligation to support veterans' grave care.
The city emphasized that the submission included all required data and caused no prejudice to the county.
In response, the county moved to quash the writ.
An oral ruling is now scheduled for November 3rd at 10.30 a.m.
The Richland Hospital and Clinics has achieved national recognition from Becker's Hospital Review for outstanding patient ratings in nurse communication, highlighting the dedication and compassionate care provided by its nursing staff.
Based on recent data from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, Hospital Consumer Assessment of Healthcare Providers and Systems Survey, 548 hospitals across the country earned a top five star rating for nurse communication.
Wisconsin led all states with 41 distinguished hospitals, including the Richland Hospital and Clinics.
This rating is especially meaningful because it comes directly from our patients, said Ken Nelson, Vice President and Chief Nursing Officer.
They're telling us how well our nurses listened, explained information and treated them with courtesy and respect.
Those qualities remain at the heart of our mission, our patients.
above all else.
Nelson added that receiving the distinction again demonstrates the ongoing commitment of the nursing team to ensure patients feel heard, respected, and fully informed throughout their care.
Alex Marshall, nursing director, emphasized the value of meaningful daily interactions.
We never underestimate the power of a bedside conversation, a patient education moment, or simply taking time to listen, Marshall noted, pointing out.
that recent patient feedback frequently praised nurses for clear explanations and courteous care.
Former patient Kelly Bird shared similar appreciation for her experience, the care I received during my hospital visit.
I can't say enough good things.
I knew I was in the best hands.
The Richland Center General Government Committee is scheduled to meet
Tuesday at 5.30 p.m.
in the council room at the city municipal building.
The committee will address several routine items alongside important municipal updates including the review and approval of the September 22nd meeting minutes and the payment of bills.
Key action items on the agenda involve status updates on the property conveyance of 929 West Seminary Street to Lydia's House Ministries, the ongoing Walmart property tax assessment challenge, pending legal litigation in Richland County Circuit Court, and proposed room tax ordinance amendments.
In addition, the committee will review contracts and agreements such as the reassignment of a developer agreement for 291 North Jefferson Street, the 2027 EMS contract with Richland County, and a draft memorandum of understanding regarding the redevelopment of the Richland campus.
Finally, members will discuss collective bargaining matters concerning a tentative agreement with the Richland Center Professional Police Association.
The Richlands School District Board of Education will hold its regular monthly meeting Wednesday, commencing at 7 p.m.
in the Richlands Center High School, IMC.
Throughout the evening, trustees will review reports from board members and the student council, approve meeting minutes from September 23rd and address multiple financial updates, including the statement of cash and invoices, the business officials report, the adoption of the 2026-27 budget, and an amendment to the tax
vote resolution for district operations.
The consent agenda covers key donations, personnel matters such as the hiring of a cross categorical teacher, and the resignation of a business education teacher.
Early college credit program requests for spring 2027 and open enrollment requests.
Additionally, the Board will discuss district vacancies, spring 2027 Board elections, snow plowing bid awards, and referendum project updates before considering action items on referendum budget changes, state-mandated private school voucher transparency resolutions, and potentially including informational inserts regarding voucher transparency with property tax bills.
The Ithaca School District faculty and staff recently completed comprehensive CPR, AED and first aid training and partnership with the City of Reedsburg Ambulance Team October 12th.
Organized through school nurse Tiffany Bingham, the session provided essential life-saving skills to district employees led by instructors and paramedics Kevin Rockweiler and Abby Ryder.
The program featured hands-on practice and practical instruction designed to prepare staff for emergency medical situations.
With the completion of this session, certified personnel now make up half of the district's workforce, significantly strengthening emergency preparedness for both the school and the surrounding community.
District representatives expressed deep appreciation to the Reedsburg Ambulance Team for their time, expertise and ongoing partnership in keeping the community safe.
A 32-year-old Hillsborough man was injured Saturday morning following a single vehicle rollover crash east of Lafarge in Vernon County.
According to Vernon County Sheriff Roy Torgerson, the crash occurred at approximately 8.30 a.m.
October 24th along State Highway 82 between New Bern Avenue and Canyon Avenue in the in the town of Union.
Authorities reported that Andres P. Gonzalez was operating a silver 2022 Chevrolet trailblazer eastbound when he swerved to avoid hitting a deer.
The SUV traveled off the right side of the roadway became airborne.
and struck an embankment.
The vehicle then flipped and over in multiple times before coming to rest in a field approximately 425 feet from where it initially left the road.
Gonzalez, who was the sole occupant of the vehicle, was flown by Amplify EMS Air to Amplify Health by Gundersen and La Crosse for medical treatment.
Although investigators believe Gonzalez was wearing a seatbelt at the time of the crash, he was located outside the vehicle when emergency responders arrived on the scene.
Assisting the Vernon County Sheriff's Office at the scene were the Lafarge Fire Department, Lafarge Area Ambulance, and Amplify EMS Air.
Passersby and a local farm family also stopped to render immediate assistance prior to the arrival of first responders.
The crash remains under active investigation with follow-up support requested from the Wisconsin State Patrol Technical Reconstruction Unit.
Drivers across Wisconsin are facing a sharp increase at the pump this week as local gasoline prices experience a significant spike.
According to recent data from gas buddies, state averages have surged upwards, driven by localized market shifts even as national figures remain relatively stable.
While the broader national picture shows steady trends, localized supply factors and seasonal adjustments
continue to cause noticeable price variations throughout different regions of Wisconsin.
Average gasoline prices in Wisconsin have risen 32.6 cents per gallon in the last week, averaging $4.52 per gallon today, according to GasBuddy's survey of 3,112 stations in Wisconsin.
Prices in Wisconsin are 20.8 cents per gallon higher than a month ago and stay in $1.73 cents per gallon higher than one year ago.
The national average price of diesel has increased 4 cents compared to a week ago and stands at $6.34 cents per gallon.
The national price of gasoline is unchanged in the last week, averaging $4.24 today.
The national average is down 22.3 cents per gallon from a month ago and stands $1.24 per gallon higher than a year ago.
According to gas buddy data compiled from more than 11 million weekly price reports covering over 150,000 gas stations across the country.
Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers has announced a new round of 206 pardons, expanding his administration's ongoing commitment to criminal justice reform and rehabilitation.
This latest action pushes the total number of pardons issued during his tenure in office past 2,400.
In a statement accompanying the announcement, Governor Evers emphasized the core values of redemption and second chances.
praising the individuals receiving pardons for taking accountability and working diligently to rebuild their lives.
He noted that supporting those who strive to contribute positively to society.
ultimately benefits communities across Wisconsin.
Under the Wisconsin Constitution, an executive pardon serves as an official act of forgiveness.
While it does not expunge criminal records, it restores key civil rights lost due to a felony conviction, such as the ability to serve on a jury, hold public office, and secure specific professional licenses.
Eligibility is governed by established executive orders, requiring applicants to have completed their sentence, at least
five years prior with no pending charges or disqualifying offenses.
A bipartisan group of lawmakers led by US Senator Tammy Baldwin has formally petitioned the Department of Veterans Affairs to classify Inclusion Body Myositis, or IBM, as a presumptive service-connected disability.
IBM is a progressive, incurable, neuromuscular condition that shares significant clinical and pathological characteristics with ALS.
Despite data from the Myositis Association indicating that IBM is more than 10 times as prevalent among military veterans compared to civilians, roughly 189 cases per million veterans versus 15 per million civilians, the VA currently lacks a presumptive pathway for IBM.
claims.
Consequently affected veterans face a lengthy individualized claims process that carries an estimated 82 percent denial rate, forcing many into prolonged appeals to secure benefits.
In their letter to VA Secretary Doug Collins, lawmakers emphasized that veterans diagnosed with IBM experienced accelerated onset, severe loss of mobility, and higher mortality rates, while the national academics
at the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering and Medicine is conducting an ongoing review into toxic exposures and neurodegenerative conditions expected in summer 2027.
Congressional leaders and advocates argue that the VA should exercise its existing regulatory authority to grant immediate relief to the thousands of veterans currently receiving care for the condition.
As upcoming elections approach, the Wisconsin Department of Transportation Division of Motor Vehicles is offering guidance for residents who need an official photo ID to cast their ballot.
Under state law, voters must present an approved form of identification at their polling place.
Fortunately, standard Wisconsin driver's licenses or state ID cards are fully accepted and a federally compliant real ID is not required for voting purposes.
To apply for a first-time state ID card, applicants should begin by visiting the official DMV portal at Wisconsin DMV.gov to review necessary documentation.
Next, voters can visit their local DMV Customer Service Center with the required proof of identity, residency, and U.S.
citizenship.
While scheduling an appointment in advance can save time, walk-ins are also welcome.
at all locations.
If a voter lacks the required documentation to obtain a standard ID right away, the DMV provides an ID petition process free of charge.
This service issues a temporary receipt that is valid for voting while the full ID application is being processed, ensuring that no eligible citizen is turned away at the polls due to a missing ID card.
for personalized assistance with obtaining an ID.
Residents can call the DMV's dedicated hotline 844-588-1069 for additional questions regarding voter registration status, polling place locations, or general election rules.
Citizens should consult the official Wisconsin Elections Commission site at elections.wi.gov.
In a landmark effort to strengthen data quality and bolster technological tools for American farmers and ranchers, U.S.
Secretary of Agriculture, Brooke
L. Rollins and NASA Administrator Jared Isaacman have signed a Memorandum of Understanding effective immediately.
The agreement aligns USDA's ongoing data modernization efforts with NASA's cutting-edge Earth observation, geospatial analytics and statistical methodologies.
The collaboration aims to leverage satellite observations and advanced
technology to enhance yield estimation, monitor crop performance, and boost profitability across the agricultural sector.
Rooted in long-standing cooperation between the two organizations, the new push was inspired by Executive Order 14369, ensuring American space superiority, issued in December 2025.
by President Trump.
Under the agreement, joint initiatives will encompass regular technical exchanges to match statistical needs with satellite data, scalable cloud infrastructure, and APIs for data delivery, and combined reviews of crop-conditioned algorhythms and risk assessment models.
This collaboration directly supports the USDA Data Modernization Plan, working to reduce producer burdens while providing accurate and timely insights.
Wisconsin health authorities have released updated figures regarding the ongoing measles outbreak across the state.
As of October 23rd, a total of 310 cases had been recorded statewide, driven largely by local transmission in southwest Wisconsin, alongside distinct cases in other regions.
The primary focal point of transmission remains southwest Wisconsin, where local health departments in Grant, Lafayette, Iowa, and Vernon counties are
coordinating with the Wisconsin Department of Health Services to manage response efforts.
In this regional cluster, authorities have identified 262 confirmed cases and six probable cases.
County breakdowns include 103 confirmed or probable cases in Lafayette County, 77 in Grant County, 74 in Iowa County,
14 confirmed cases in Vernon County.
Additionally, Richland County has recorded one confirmed case linked directly to the Southwest Wisconsin outbreak.
Outside of the Southwestern Regional Cluster, public health officials have tracked isolated cases in Northern and Southern counties.
Northern Wisconsin has documented 34 confirmed cases stemming from an out-of-state travel.
comprising 28 confirmed cases in Chippewa County and six confirmed cases in Marathon County.
In Rock County, officials are monitoring five probable cases that are linked to one another based on symptoms, but remain unconnected to the Southwest Wisconsin outbreak, with the original source of infection still under investigation.
Public health representatives emphasize that fluctuation in reported case numbers is typical
during outbreak monitoring.
Initial spikes often result from active case finding while subsequent reporting relies on individuals seeking medical care.
Authorities continue enhanced surveillance and contact tracing while working with health care partners to limit further exposure.
The Wisconsin Department of Justice alongside a coalition of states has announced a legal victory after the Trump administration decided to withdraw its appeal against the federal court ruling.
The original ruling overturned a U.S.
Department of Education rule that attempted to restrict nonprofit and public employers' eligibility for the public service loan forgiveness program based on policy alignment with the administration.
Under the PSLF framework, eligible public service employees can receive full federal student loan forgiveness after completing 10 years of qualifying employment and monthly payments.
The contested rule had empowered federal officials to disqualify employers based on ideological activities or policy stances, drawing immediate legal challenges from state attorneys general,
late last year.
In June, 2026, the U.S.
District Court for the District of Massachusetts officially vacated the rule, finding an arbitrary, capricious, in excess of statutory authority and a direct violation of First Amendment rights.
By abandoning the appeal process, the federal government leaves the district court's judgment fully intact, permanently blocking the restrictions from taking effect.
Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Call
commended the outcome, emphasizing that workers who committed to public service careers in good faith under the PSLF program should not face political uncertainty regarding their debt relief.
The resolution protects blown forgiveness access for thousands of public servants across the participating states.
Registration is now open for garden plots for the 2027 season at River Valley Area Community Gardens in Spring Green.
Plot rental for the season is 10 by 10 plots for $20, 10 by 20 for $40, and a 20 by 20 plot is $60.
The fee includes straw mulch, use of rototiller and other tools, manure and compost, organic fertilizer, water to each plot section, and hoses and friendly
experienced gardeners who are always ready to offer advice or a hand.
Print registration forms are available in the info box at the gardens located in the 900 block of northwest mooring spring green.
Forms may be requested via email at info at rvacg.org or by texting 698-588-6040.
All are welcome.
The American Red Cross urges donors to give blood or platelets now to help hospitals and transfusion centers stay prepared to help all patients.
Blood drives will be held tomorrow from 9 a.m.
until 2 p.m.
at Westby High School.
Two more blood drives will be held Wednesday from 9 a.m.
until 2 p.m.
at Richland Center High School and from 11 a.m.
to 4 p.m.
at Weston High School.
A blood drive will also be held Friday from 9 30 to 1 30 at the Oneywalk Public Library.
appointments may be made by calling 800 Red Cross.
Walk-ins are always welcome.
Volunteers are being sought to help with the upcoming Richland Center American Red Cross Blood Drive on Wednesday.
At the Richland Center Community Center, help is needed for set up at 8.30 a.m.
and take down at 5.45 p.m.
Help on the floor is also needed to volunteer, call Bob at 608-475-0621 or
Show up at the event.
Today's vital statistics are sponsored by Krause Monument.
Krause Monument Company designs and produces granted headstones, gravestones, grave markers, monuments, and memorials.
Today is October 26.
These are today's vital statistics.
John
Jack Bauer, 88 of Richland Center, died Monday, October 19th at the Richland Hospital.
Funeral services will be held Tuesday, October 27th at 11am 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 27 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 Anchorimation 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.
Jack Bauer, 88 of Richland Center.
Thomas J.
Tommy Nalapinsky, 92 of Muscaday, died Wednesday, October 21 at Dove HealthCare in Fenimore.
Funeral services will be held Wednesday, October 28 at 10 a.m.
at the Pratt Funeral Home in Muscaday with burial to follow in the St.
John's Catholic Cemetery.
The Pratt Funeral Anchorimation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.
Tommy is survived by his sister Betty Azim of Madison, one niece,
and two nephews, Thomas J. Tommy Nalapinsky, 92 of Muscaday.
Ellen Grace Klingeman Clock, 83 of Rockbridge, died Thursday, October 22 in Mandovi.
Funeral services will be held Thursday.
October 29th at 11 a.m.
at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Woodstock Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Thursday, October 29th at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 9 a.m.
until the time of service.
Ellen is survived by her son, Richard and Cindy Clark, siblings Marilyn and Carlisle Peckham, Bob and Loretta Klingeman, two grandchildren,
five great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, honorary children, and friends.
Ellen Grace Klingerman-Clock, 83 of Rockbridge.
Lois Ruth Moe Anderson Erson, 88 of Richland Center, died Thursday, October 22nd.
Services will be held
Friday at 11 o'clock at St.
John's Lutheran Church in Richland Center.
Visitation will be held.
Thursday from 3 p.m.
until 7 p.m.
with a short service by the Delta Kappa Gamma Society at 7 o'clock at St.
John's Lutheran Church.
Visitation will also be held at St.
John's Lutheran Church Friday from 10 o'clock until the time of service at 11.
In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to St.
John's Lutheran Church of Richland Center or to Youth with a Mission.
The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family with arrangements.
Lois is survived by her sisters Rachel Jackson and Eleanor Moe, a brother Curtis and Mary Moe, daughters Anne and Scott Fisher, Joy and Dave Coyne and Carrie and Bill Pink, stepchildren Chris Erson, Eric and Dee Dee Erson and Christy Erson, 10 grandchildren, two great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews and extended family.
Lois, Ruth, Moe, Anderson,
Erson, 88 of Rich Lund Center.
Dorothy Elaine Munz, 96 of Bear Valley died Saturday, October 24th at home.
A mass of Christian burial will be held Friday, October 30th at 11 a.m.
at St.
Killian's Catholic Church in Bear Valley with visitation from 9 30 a.m.
Until the time of service, burial will follow in the Church Cemetery.
Memorials may be given to the St.
Kilian's Catholic Cemetery Association.
The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements.
Dorothy is survived by her brother-in-law Paul Munz, several nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Dorothy Elaine Munz, 96, of Bear Valley.
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.
The family is planning a local gathering of remembrance in Richland Center
the coming weeks when a date, location, and time are finalized.
They will release the information here via WRCO.
former wife Linda Wallace, several nieces, nephews, countless wrestlers, runners, assistant coaches, and friends.
James Robert Jim Allbaugh of Shono, Wisconsin, formerly of Richland Center.
Kimberly Kim
Anne Fry, 55 of Richland Center, died Tuesday, October 20 at UW Hospital in Madison.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, October 31 at 11 a.m.
at Clary Memorial Funeral Home with visitation beginning at 9 a.m.
and continuing until the time of service.
Burial will follow at the Basswood Cemetery.
In lieu of flowers, memorials may be given to the family.
Survivors include her husband, John Fry, son, Logan Fry, daughter, Lindsay Fry, and A.J.
Ballerud.
Mother, Anne Chipwood, brother, Kevin Chipwood, sister, Sarah, and Jeremy Byrd.
Father-in-law, Robert Fry, brothers-in-law, David and Mary Fry, and Bobby Fry.
Sisters-in-law, Jan Holloway, Lisa McGlynn, and Chris Fry.
many other nieces, nephews, other relatives, and friends.
Kimberly Kim Ann Fry, 55 of Richland Center.
Randall Nimitz, 80 of Richland Center, passed away October 25th at the Richland Hospital.
Funeral services are pending with the Clary Memorial Funeral Home in Richland Center.
Randall Nimitz, 80 of Richland Center.
and in birth news from the Richland Hospital, a daughter, Olivia Kaye, born to Ashley and John Rutherford.
Congratulations, this concludes today's vital statistics.