Today is November 5th.
These are today's vital statistics.
Christine M.B.
58 of Richland Center died at home Friday, September 18th.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, November 7th from 12.30 p.m.
to 3.30 p.m.
at the Richland Center Community Center.
The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
Christine M.B.
58 of Richland Center.
Elmina Rose Fry, 88 of Richland Center, died Tuesday, November 3rd at St.
Mary's Hospital in Madison.
Funeral services will be held Monday, November 9th at 1 p.m.
at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Richland Center Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Monday, November 9th at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 12 noon until the time of service at 1.
The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting the family
family with their arrangements.
Elmina Rose Fry, 88 of Richland Center.
Larry Don Ewing, 87 of Baraboo, formerly of Rural Wound Rock, died Tuesday, November 3rd at St.
Clair Hospital in Baraboo.
Funeral services will be held
Thursday, November 12th at 11 a.m.
at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Button Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Thursday, November 12th at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 10 a.m.
until the time of service at 11.
The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family.
Larry Don Ewing, 87 of Baraboo, formerly of Rural Lone Rock.
Stephen Henry Wayland Jr.
of Richland Center died Tuesday, October 27th at the Harvest Gas Home.
in Richland Center.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 21st at 11 a.m.
at St.
Mary's Catholic Church in Richland Center.
Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m.
until the time of mass at 11.
Lunch will follow at the church.
After lunch concludes, burial will take place at St.
John's Cemetery in Spring Green with military graveside rights to be provided by the Lone Rock American Legion.
The family request memorials in Steve's name be directed to the
Peace Corps or to Harvest Guest Home.
The Pratt Funeral Anchorimation Service is assisting the family.
Stephen Henry Whalen Jr.
of Richland Center.
Susan M. Pyphone, 63 of Richland Center, died Thursday, October 29 at SSM Health in Madison.
Per Susan's request, no formal services will be held.
The Pratt Funeral Anchorimation Service is assisting the family.
Susan
M. Python, 63 of Richland Center.
Good morning, everyone.
For WRCO News, I'm Todd Copernall.
48 degrees in Richland Center right now.
Forecast says today's high will be 51.
In the news this morning, the Richland School District Board of Education has scheduled a special school board meeting for today.
The meeting is set to begin at 5.30 p.m.
in the Richland School Board Conference Room.
The meeting will begin with standard opening items, including the call to order, roll call, and confirmation of public notice.
Following these preliminaries, the Board will entertain a motion to convene into closed session pursuant to Wisconsin statutes.
The closed session will focus on discussing and considering personnel matters involving a certified employee, which may include a potential resignation and other related employment actions.
The Board may take official action during the closed session
deemed necessary and appropriate.
Upon conclusion of the closed session deliberations, the Board will entertain a motion to adjourn the meeting.
The Richland County Public Works Standing Committee is scheduled to convene a public meeting Thursday, November 12th at 5.30 p.m.
The meeting will take place in the Richland County Boardroom.
Following an opportunity for public comment, committee members will review departmental activity reports from Property Management
and the Highway Commissioner.
The agenda highlights several key discussion and action items concerning county property and fiscal governance.
The committee will consider implementing a tax penalty under Wisconsin Statute 74.47, alongside evaluating the responsibilities of counties when acquiring tax-deeded properties that are potentially contaminated.
Additionally, members will review Corporation Council's analysis regarding these potentially contaminated parcels, assess tax-deed property for sale, and discuss plans for the 2027 plow truck build.
This weekend, the Kickapoo Middle and High School Choirs will present Royals Fall Variety Show.
Performances will be held
Friday at seven o'clock and Saturday at two o'clock at the Kickapoo High School Auditorium.
Many of the songs that will be performed were chosen by the students taking part in the show.
Catherine Miller is the director.
Anybody who wants to do something on the show can choose what they want to do.
This year theme is Royals so anything to do with so one of our songs is Kings and Queens or you know royalty like the Beatles so kids get to have a lot more choice in what they do and how many events they want to do.
They can choose anything they want from any era, and we have a very wide variety.
Along with individual performances, there will be large vocal groups performing well-known songs.
Our middle school and high school choirs are singing Kings and Queens.
They're singing What a Wonderful World, Louis Armstrong.
They're singing Dynamite.
by BTS, which is a more modern group that actually just sang at the World Cup this past year.
And then our high school choir is singing Yesterday by the Beatles, and then Don't Stop Me Now from Queen to finish the show.
Catherine Miller hopes everyone can come out to the Kickapoo High School Auditorium this weekend.
Again, support all the local things that are going on.
We all know how much goes into these productions, and we just appreciate the support.
Our students are amazing.
There's such talent and there's something for everybody.
Whether you like old barbershop things or old school rock and roll or modern pop, musicals, there's something for everybody.
Cost of both shows is a free will donation that will help support the food pantry and the music department.
Enjoy great music at the Royals Fall Variety Show Friday at 7 o'clock and Saturday at 2 at the Kickapoo High School Auditorium.
More information can be found on the Kickapoo Music Facebook page.
Criminal charges were filed on Tuesday in Monroe County Circuit Court against Matthew James Robert Rasmussen, 32 of TOMA.
Rasmussen faces six felony charges led by a charge of attempted first degree intentional homicide.
He's also charged with strangulation and suffocation, false imprisonment, battery, criminal damage to property and disorderly conduct with each count.
carrying repeat offender penalty enhancements.
At a preliminary hearing, Judge Richard Radcliffe sent cash bond at $500,000.
Under the conditions of his release, Rasmussen is barred from committing acts or threats of violence entering specified exclusionary zones or possessing illegal drugs controlled substances.
Without a prescription or drug paraphernalia, he must also comply with Monroe County's GPS electronic monitoring program and maintain no contact with the victim or their home.
Rasmussen's initial court appearance is scheduled for January 25th at 9am in the Monroe County Justice Center in Sparta.
As of Tuesday, Wisconsin has recorded a total of 431 measles cases statewide.
Health officials, including the Wisconsin Department of Health Services, alongside local health departments in Grant Lafayette,
Iowa and Vernon counties continue to coordinate multi-jurisdictional investigations and response efforts.
The interactive measles data dashboard maintained by DHS receives regular updates every Tuesday and Friday.
The largest concentration of infections remains centered in southwest Wisconsin where local transmission accounts for 362 confirmed and six probable cases across four primary counties.
Grant County
County 142 confirmed Lafayette County 115 confirmed or probable Iowa County 97 confirmed in Vernon County.
14 confirmed nearby Richland County also has identified one confirmed case directly linked to this ongoing southwest outbreak in northern and central regions cases have primarily stemmed from out-of-state travel rather than the southwest cluster Chippewa County has reported 44 confirmed cases while Marathon County has documented six confirmed cases with both locations having passed
21 days since the last rash onset.
Recent travel related additions as of November 3rd include two confirmed cases in Marquette County, one probable in Buffalo County and two confirmed in Jackson County.
Meanwhile, Rock County has logged five probable cases with an unidentified infection source, though over 21 days have elapsed since rash onset there as well.
To safeguard individual privacy, state and local public health agencies are withholding further personal health identifiers.
Residents looking for additional details, resources and live tracking can access the state case count dashboard at DHS Wisconsin's Immunization page or visit their primary outbreak index.
The Richland Center community demonstrated a strong commitment to public safety and health
During the Drug Enforcement Administration's National Drug Take Back Day, October 24, hosted at the Richland Center Police Department in partnership with Partners for Prevention of Richland County, the biannual initiative provided residents with a secure way to clear their homes of expired and unneeded medications.
The single four-hour collection event yielded 82.8 pounds of prescription and over-the-counter drugs.
Regional Dropboxes also saw substantial participation leading up to the event.
Dropboxes at Center Pharmacy and the Richland Center Municipal Building accounted for 218 pounds.
The Richland County Sheriff's Department collected 43.8 pounds and the Muscaday Police Department contributed 60.6 pounds in total.
The coordinated effort resulted in 405.2 pounds of medication submitted for safe destruction.
Chief Billy Jones emphasized the importance of these initiatives in reducing risks associated with accidental ingestion or intentional abuse.
To support ongoing safety efforts, year-round drop boxes remain accessible at Richland Center City Hall, the Richland County Sheriff's Department, Viola Village Hall, and Center Pharmacy, encouraging community members to maintain safe disposal practices throughout the year.
Following Tuesday's general election, State Superintendent Jill Underly released a statement addressing the 79 school referendum questions on ballots across Wisconsin.
While expressing optimism about voter support for public education, Dr. Underly underscored the urgent need for comprehensive school funding reform.
Dr. Underly commended voters for demonstrating that they believe investing in children's futures is vital to moving the state forward.
However, she cautioned that
the high number of referendums highlights a persistent systemic issue.
Communities statewide are repeatedly forced to choose whether to increase local property taxes simply to cover basic operational expenses, compensate teachers, and maintain educational quality.
Critiquing the current system, Dr. Underly stated that Wisconsin's school funding formula is broken and has failed students, schools, and communities for decades.
She emphasized that public schools should not have to depend on ongoing local referendums to deliver the quality education every student deserves.
Looking ahead, she expressed hope for achieving meaningful structural changes
and voiced a commitment to collaborating with elected leaders across the state to build a better funding system.
It's time for Thursday's Roundup.
Thursday's Roundup is powered by Attitouch Floral and Gifts, Schmidt Woodland Hills, Richland Hospital Cardinal Glass CG, Badgerland Flooring, and by Pratt Funeral Incrimination Service.
It's game day.
We're rolling out dumb cheap games that somehow turn into bragging rights.
No strategy, no practice, just luck, vibes, and questionable choices.
The most anticipated moment of the week, especially if you're from Arkansas.
If it comes back quick, that's a green light and you can take a victory lap.
If it drags on, Hank says step away, stretch like nothing happened and act like you had better plans all along.
So tune in, play along and let Thursday's roundup turn ordinary into slightly ridiculous in the best way possible.
Grab your skates, yeah we're calling you.
It's time for the roundup.
There is.
How you doing, young man?
Not too bad there.
I'm getting blamed for something that I didn't do.
Now, what's going on?
I don't know.
Well,
I have to take you to Green Bay.
Yeah,
you're
blaming me.
Right.
You're going to throw me in the back of the truck and.
I thought I was taking the vibe.
Do you have a mattress back there?
They could
get one.
Okay.
We got a bed.
We're just in mattress, right?
So only missed remember the last time that we went to Appleton What we had to sleep in we slept in the truck.
No the blade remember the blazer
blazer.
Yeah,
I crawled way in the back and I heard you.
Yeah, we both think I did well.
We weren't cuddling but Thank you stayed in the front That was if you remember because we got up there early and then there's rain delay rain
I think it was getting ready to play.
And that's the year they won the state tournament 2023, but getting ready to play the first game.
And they pushed it back to like 530 or six o'clock at night.
So we waited all day.
We went to like every store you could loiter in and we went to a lot of bookstores as you know, I think we did.
Yeah.
And then did the game and I think a one.
So then we came all the way home that night.
I
had to take care of my puppies.
Well, and I had to
be on the air the next day.
So it came all the way home.
No, the next day was nine o'clock start.
Nope.
Nope.
Nope.
We came home because there was a day in between.
We came home, did our regular deal and then went back again the next day for the championship.
And that's where the holy mackerel.
That's right.
Exactly.
Well, hopefully we have some holy mackerels this weekend.
We'll see River Valley tomorrow morning at eight.
You know, can they make it any earlier?
You know, Seneca plays today at nine.
It could have at least said nine, but eight tomorrow morning.
Might as well get them done.
Get them done.
Absolutely.
I hope we're awake by then.
Phil, we gotta wake up.
Yeah, Phil.
Phil, I think there'll be enough excitement in the air.
Oh yeah.
Oh yeah.
So looking forward to that,
I was, um, I, this'll be river valley's fourth appearance at the state of all at alternate.
I've called all of them.
So look for you.
Look for that.
Uh, the one year though, I don't want to jinx this, but one year I was going and my car broke down in sun prairie.
Oh, really?
Yeah.
The, uh, generator or alternator alternator went out of my Chevy blazer.
Ooh.
Yes.
So did you make it on time?
Um, I called someone from river valley that was going.
I knew they were going and I called them.
And they were, they pulled into the garage just as they were letting it down from the, the lift and they had fixed it.
It cost me a lot of money.
Oh, I'm sure.
Oh yeah.
Just a, but then we got on the, we got, we got there in time barely.
Luckily I left early.
Yeah.
We're going to leave early in the morning.
We're going to leave really early.
Check your, check your
alternator.
And then tomorrow night we'll be at Ithaca high school.
We're going to, yeah, we do need a plane or helicopter or something.
That's all we got.
Can you do this all the way up?
Oh yeah, probably.
I appreciate it.
Today is Thursday, young man.
Your question of the day is, what as seen on TV product do you secretly want to buy?
Oh boy, as seen on TV.
I'm trying to think every once in a while or something like, you know, that's pretty cool.
I need that.
But I don't recall what it is.
I think mine is alien tape.
Does it really really alien tape?
Yeah.
What about the stuff you spray on your screen door and then you can float on it?
Oh, what is
that?
Flex
steel?
Yeah.
Flex.
Yeah.
Flex.
Yeah.
You can, you can cut out the bottom of your row boat and put a screen door in there and you can put flex steel in there and then you can go.
Oh, you want a row boat or?
Yeah.
Yeah.
With a screen door.
So I, you know, I'm, I'm out all the time when I picked up this, this rope, it's a,
It's a boat rope.
You don't have the right water.
Got that home.
I'm going out now.
I need is a boat.
Now you just need a boat.
Yeah.
Oh, I know.
I know.
Another one is the, the steel Richard trying to be his name from, from home improvement.
Um, Richard.
Oh yeah.
Yeah.
Richard Kearns or anything of the names.
Um, he advertises that hose that just like stretches out
50.
Bam.
I'm not a big one.
It looks, it looks good on TV until you put pressure on it or leave it.
And you
know what?
Some people like them.
And that's again, that's my personal opinion.
But if you forget to leave your pressure on and then the sun, it will pop it.
Will it really?
Oh
yes.
All
right.
Yes.
Well, maybe TV's
lied to me again.
I don't know.
I hasn't lied to you.
I mean, it shrinks up.
It does.
Oh, it'll shrink up.
Yeah.
The pocket hose, I think that's
pocket hose.
Yeah.
I'm thinking about one of them.
We'll see.
But so, you know what?
We can, we can hit like a Menard or something.
See if they've got one or a, I've seen on TV stores.
They have a lot of those commercials.
The one, the one that, and this isn't, there aren't so anything, but, uh, the one for the, uh, the animals that they show.
So sad.
Oh, the ASPC.
Oh, my goodness.
Every time that comes on, you know, these poor, sad, sad, maltrician dogs and
like, oh man.
Every time, every time I get something to eat, that's what my dogs would like.
And they can just get done eating.
They don't know how lucky they are.
Do they?
So when I make eggs, I always make them one.
Oh, all right.
So they'll sit there and let it cool off while I'm eating my eggs.
But I promise you, before I'm done, they're sitting there on my feet going, oh, I know.
And it's like,
You guys just had them.
I know.
And then they make you feel bad because you didn't give any off your
plate.
They do.
Annie, our cat, when she's hungry, because she gets fed like at 4.35 in the afternoon, she sounds like she's on her last leg.
Sad.
Poor starving cat.
Poor doll.
Oh boy.
You might be from Arkansas.
Phillip, if any of your wedding gifts required ammunition.
Oh yeah, I suppose.
That's tough.
It's tough.
Could be your daily dilemma, buddy.
November 5th, your pants fit perfectly standing up.
Do you risk sitting down or spend Thanksgiving leaning against a wall?
Oh, I don't know.
I don't think that I would.
I mean, uh, stretch pants are probably better.
Yes.
Thanksgiving or sweatpants.
You know, they're always becoming, when you walk into Thanksgiving dinner with your sweatpants.
Yeah.
Hey, I'm here.
How you doing?
Yeah.
I'm surprised you wore shoes.
Just get on loose in the
drawstring.
As I eat.
I'm surprised you wore shoes today.
Hey, today's game day.
Hey.
And Hank's been out.
Oh, look at that.
What do we got today?
What did you spend a dollar on this one?
$1.25?
This is
a
little bit more.
It's like four bucks.
Four bucks for this one?
Tabletop golf.
Here we
go.
It's a winning game.
Why, this is pretty cool.
Please don't lose the balls, Phil.
We have a total of four.
How many do you
have?
Three and four.
They look like little sweet treats or
something.
Yeah.
Oh, what are those things called?
Oh, that gum.
I
forgot what they were
called.
I don't know.
Little chocolate balls of a little mini not
not snow caps.
No, but the little bitty round chocolate balls sixlets.
Oh sixlets.
Yeah,
they look like the sixlets.
Should I try one?
No, please don't.
Okay.
Now anyway, tabletop golf.
All right, here we go.
So what we're like this counter might be a little can I hold the other balls before you lose them?
So
all right.
So
you get four shots.
We have four balls.
See how many holes in ones.
Here comes Phil knee.
Looks like he's got a two wood.
It doesn't look like a putter.
Quiet guys, quiet.
And here we go.
And here's the putt.
I don't know.
He is one for one.
All right.
So this is your maid ones.
All right.
All right.
And he's at the green.
And here he comes.
His next shot
is...
Two for two for Philip.
Sorry.
Just got a little excited there.
Yeah.
Two for two for Phil.
And here's his third shot.
Oh!
Went in the water.
And he is looking for Henry's new rope.
Hmm.
All right.
The pocket hose.
The four for four.
Here we go.
He is two out of three.
And he's two out of four.
Too hard.
Two out of four.
I think Phil's been back here practicing.
Nope.
Nope.
I think he has.
I
tried it once, I made one and I quit.
You did.
You
actually just swallowed
it.
That's it.
I'm good at this.
All right.
All right.
Henry Bray, the Cinderella story here at Augusta.
Oh, he looks like he's got his favorite putter and he takes a shot.
Oh boy.
What a weak shot that was.
That's not good.
All right.
Here is putt number two for Hank Bray.
Oh, he got it in.
The phenom out of peerage Arkansas.
Boy tears in his eyes here at Augusta.
Oh
boy.
That's just the rain.
That's a little flag to it.
That's a nice little flag.
Right.
I could, I could use that at my.
Fake farm.
Yeah.
Yeah.
All right.
What do we have here?
This is three.
This is number three He's one of two Henry Bray trying to tie the leaderboard and he knows does that count?
I thought it went off the board and came back off the board We're tied so if he makes this he wins otherwise, we're gonna have to have a one-hole playoff and Let's see what he does here folks.
All right
This is concentration boy.
There's pressure here quiet quiet everybody
Oh,
sorry, excuse me.
Oh,
yeah.
All right, here we go.
Oh We missed All right, Phil.
All right want to hold play off here play off here buddy
all tied up and there goes.
Oh,
I
All right, so one shot right one shot one shot
for a field
man.
Here we go.
And he's up to and
That was close that was close All right one shot one shot If not, we're tied then we then we're tied.
All right.
Here we go Here he is back again the Cinderella story from peerage.
He wins it
He wins it, ladies and gentlemen.
Look at him hopping around there.
Oh boy.
Well, congratulations, Hank.
No one beats me in tabletop golf.
He takes the tabletop golf championship here.
Yes.
Nice job, Hank.
Thanks,
buddy.
It's been a while since you won.
You're on a little bit of a dry
spell.
It's been a long while since I won.
It's nice to get a win, Phillip.
If you want to have this on sports, you can interview
me
after this.
You'd like to thank the little people.
I
like to think the little people.
Oh, don't forget today.
Today is Thursday.
Love line.
All right.
Are you ready for this?
Go for it, Rocky.
All right.
Are you a weather forecast?
You've been, you've been wrong before, but I'm still checking you out every morning.
That sounded creepy there.
All right.
All right.
Have a great day my friend.
Hey, with catch everybody on the flip side tomorrow.
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 November 5th.
These are today's Vital Statistics.
M.B.
58 of Richland Center died at home Friday, September 18.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, November 7 from 12.30 p.m.
until 3.30 p.m.
at the Richland Center Community Center.
The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with arrangements.
Christine is survived by her companion, Rob B. Her two sons, Ryan and Jelisa B. and Brandon B. One grandson, Christine is also survived by her mother
Patty Pat Kraska, siblings Jason and Summer Rowe, Alisa Rowe and Chad Kraska.
Christine M. B.
58 of Richland Center.
Elmina Rose Frye, 88 of Richland Center died Tuesday, November 3rd at St.
Mary's Hospital in Madison.
The funeral services will be held Monday, November 9th at 1 p.m.
at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Richland Center's cemetery.
Visitation will be held Monday, November 9th at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 12 noon until the time of service at 1 p.m.
The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting the family.
Elmina is survived by four children, Sue and Michael Staniczka, Linda and Philip Prohaska, Jim Fry and Ernest Fry, 10 grandchildren, nine great-grandchildren, many nieces, nephews, other relatives and friends.
Elmina Rose Fry, 88 of Richland Center.
Larry.
Don Ewing, 87 of Baraboo, formerly of Rural Lone Rock, died Tuesday, November 3 at St.
Clair Hospital in Baraboo.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 12 at 11 a.m.
at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Button Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Thursday, November 12 at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 10 a.m.
until the time of service at 11.
Larry.
Don Ewing, 87 of Baraboo, formerly of Lone Rock.
Stephen Henry Whalen Jr.
of Richland Center died Tuesday, October 27 at the Harvest Guest Home in Richland Center.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 21st at 11 a.m.
at St.
Mary's Catholic Church in Richland Center.
Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m.
until the time of mass at 11.
Lunch will follow at the church.
After lunch concludes, burial will take place at St.
John's Cemetery in Spring Green.
with military graveside rights to be provided by the Lone Rock American Legion.
The family requests memorials in Steve's name be directed to the Peace Corps or to Harvest Guest Home.
The Pratt Funeral and Cremation Service is assisting the family.
Steve is survived by sisters Donna and William O'Donnell and Martha Whalen, several nieces, nephews, and extended family.
Stephen Henry Whalen, Jr.
of Richland Center.
Susan M. Pifron, 63 of Ritz-Lenz Center, died Thursday, October 29 at SSM Health in Madison.
Per Susan's request, no formal services will be held.
The Pratt Funeral Antrimation Service is assisting the family with arrangements.
Susan is survived by her husband, Dave Pifron, her son, Daniel Schiehler, and her many friends from Dialysis.
Susan M. Pifron, 63.
of Rich Linn Center.
This concludes today's vital statistics.
Welcome back to the news at noon.
Witnesses observed a plume of black smoke emanating from the engine compartment of an amateur-built Monette Sonorai.
two LT airplanes shortly after takeoff, leading to a total loss of engine power and an emergency landing in a swamp near Saxonville, October 12.
The pilot, who was the sole occupant on board, sustained serious injuries and the aircraft was substantially damaged during the crash landing.
According to preliminary information released by the National Transportation Safety Board, the accident occurred around 3.13 p.m.
local time during the aircraft's very first test flight with the engine failure occurring at an altitude of approximately 300 feet above ground level.
The single-engine experimental aircraft suffered significant structural damage to both wings and its fuselage upon impact with the marshy terrain.
Weather conditions at the time of the flight were reported as clear with 10-mile visibility and light winds from the south.
The wreckage has been retained by federal authorities for detailed mechanical evaluation as part of the ongoing investigation.
Clean drinking water is essential to everyday life, which is why local water utilities regularly test and monitor municipal supplies to keep communities safe.
State and federal guidelines require routine sampling to check for various minerals and substances, ensuring that potential concerns are caught quickly.
Even with rigorous monitoring, occasional issues can arise, such as naturally occurring mineral spikes or elevated copper levels caused by older home plumbing.
When testing identifies higher readings in certain areas, water suppliers take immediate action to notify the public, adjust treatment processes and provide simple steps residents can take at home.
After learning that a neighboring community had found copper in its drinking water, WRCO News contacted Steve Kruger, water superintendent for Richland Center City Utilities.
Steve told us the DNR mandates testing for substances, including copper, in drinking water on a regular basis.
While this state testing is required every three years, Richland Center has gone above and beyond that threshold with no reportable issues.
The Richland School District Board of Education has scheduled a special board meeting for Thursday, November 5th today.
The meeting is set to begin at 5.30 p.m.
in the Richland School Board Conference Room.
The meeting will begin with standard opening items including the call to order, roll call, and confirmation of public notice.
Following these preliminaries, the board will entertain a motion to convene into closed session pursuant to Wisconsin Statutes.
The closed session will focus on discussing and considering personnel matters involving a certified employee which may include a potential resignation and other related employment actions.
The board may take official action during the closed session if deemed necessary and appropriate.
Upon conclusion of the closed session deliberations, the board will entertain a motion to adjourn the meeting.
The Richland County Public Works Standing Committee is scheduled to convene a public meeting Thursday, November 12th at 5.30 p.m.
The meeting will take place in the Richland County Boardroom.
Following an opportunity for public comment, committee members will review departmental activity reports from Property Management and the Highway Commissioner.
The agenda highlights several key discussion and action items concerning county property and fiscal governance.
The committee will consider implementing a tax penalty under Wisconsin Statute 74.47 alongside evaluating the responsibilities of counties when acquiring tax-deeded properties that are potentially contaminated.
Additionally, members will review Corporation Council's analysis regarding these potentially contaminated parcels, assess tax-deed property for sale, and discuss plans for the 2027 plow truck build.
Criminal charges were filed on Tuesday in Monroe County Circuit Court against Matthew James Robert Rasmussen, 32 of TOMA.
Rasmussen faces six felony charges led by a charge of attempted first degree intentional homicide.
He's also charged with strangulation and suffocation, false imprisonment, battery,
criminal damage to property and disorderly conduct, with each count carrying repeat offender penalty enhancements.
At a preliminary hearing, Judge Richard Radcliffe set cash bond at $500,000.
Under the conditions of his release, Rasmussen is barred from committing acts or threats of violence, entering specified exclusionary zones or possessing illegal drugs, controlled substances without a prescription or drug paraphernalia.
He must also comply with Monroe County
County's GPS electronic monitoring program and maintain no contact with the victim or their home.
Rasmussen's initial court appearance is scheduled for January 25th at 9 a.m.
at the Monroe County Justice Center in Sparta.
More than 200 residents, business owners, and local officials
Gathered at Willow & Oak in Hillsborough on Wednesday for the fourth annual Vernon County Awards banquet.
The yearly event honors individuals, organizations, and businesses whose dedication and hard work continue to strengthen the local community.
Entering.
Embracing this year's theme, stronger together, adapting, innovating, thriving.
The evening showcased the resilience and creative spirit found throughout Vernon County.
Attendees enjoyed a full schedule of activities, including a brewery tour at Hillsborough Brewing Company, a panel discussion featuring local entrepreneurs, updates on county initiatives from the Community Development Department, and a formal dinner preceding the awards ceremony.
Honorees were recognized across 10 distinct categories,
representing a broad spectrum of industries and community contributions.
Top honors went to Mount Tabor Mill for small business of the year.
Farmers State Bank Hillsboro for mid-sized business of the year and Westby Cooperative Creamery for large business of the year.
Additional recognition went to the Coon Creek Community Watershed Council.
for Environmental Stewardship, Russ Cornford for Healthcare and Emergency Response, Jad Olson for the Young Leaders Award, Sweet Rides and Sweet Pies for Event of the Year, the Stoddard Food Pantry for Non-Profit Excellence, Tyler Fortun for the Community Impact Award, and Tim Hunt of the Vernon Reporter for the People's Choice Award, Larkin Breckle, Economic Development and Marketing Coordinator for Vernon County,
express gratitude for the opportunity to spotlight community achievements and foster connections among attendees.
Organized by the Vernon County Community Development Department, the annual rotating banquet aims to celebrate the people and organizations driving local growth.
Bob Nelson of Civic Media Reports
Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Detectives are excavating additional locations as they continue their probe into the disappearance of 5-year-old Bobby Joe Fritz, May 14, 1983.
In July, items of interest and potential evidence were recovered during an excavation at the Campbellsport residence where he lived at the time of his disappearance.
Those items have been sent to a private laboratory for testing.
Results are pending.
The sites currently being excavated were identified as areas of interest that may contain evidence related to Bobby Joe's disappearance 43 years ago.
The initial search of the basement at Bobby Joe's former home uncovered potential evidence prompting a full-scale excavation in July involving sheriff's office detectives, DCI agents, crime scene analysts, crime lab personnel, and a forensic anthropologist.
In total, investigators removed and processed approximately 500
five gallon buckets full of dirt by hand from the basement.
This equated to a total weight of approximately 30,000 pounds of soil that was then sifted by hand searched and items of interest were collected for processing.
In a significant push to bridge the digital divide, Wisconsin has announced nearly $58 million in grant funding aimed at delivering high-speed internet to underserved communities across the state, administered through the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin via the state broadband expansion grant program.
These newly awarded funds target 46 distinct infrastructure projects.
Together, the initiatives will bring new or improved broadband
access to more than 18,000 homes, businesses, and essential service locations.
This latest distribution of grant funding marks another milestone in ongoing statewide efforts to upgrade digital infrastructure.
Since 2019, state-level broadband initiatives have extended coverage to over 428,000 locations, prioritizing areas lacking reliable internet connections.
State leaders emphasize that high-speed
has transformed into a fundamental public utility necessary for local economic growth, education, health care, and everyday communication across rural and underserved regions.
to optimize impact state officials used enhanced nationwide mapping data to pinpoint areas in highest need of infrastructure investments.
Despite high demand, program leaders note that application requests exceeded available grant resources by $100 million.
As state funds from prior budgets reach full deployment, officials highlight the ongoing necessity of sustainable funding to connect the remaining unserved locations and keep
pace with growing digital needs.
Welcome back to the news at noon.
Here is
Ken Thede.
From last week's throwback Thursday history moment to this week's throwback Thursday history moment, it was excerpted from what would be titled John Wurtz Family History and the Richland Center Library of Origins.
And now for Richland County Historical Society History Moment.
Here's the rest of the story.
According to now, the July 2nd post on the Richland County History Room's Facebook page.
It was titled TBT in a column by Keith Ritten.
Thank you, Keith Ritten, for all you do in your research.
He's also a member of the Richland County Historical Society Board of Directors.
Here's the story.
The Carnegie Library was built on the site where the John Wertz House originally stood on the southwest corner of Park and Seminary Streets.
John Q. Wertz was born on April 17, 1829 in Ohio.
He was the eleventh of thirteen children born to Daniel and Sarah Wertz.
John married Anna Elizabeth Taylor and they came to Richland Center in the early 1860s.
They built their home
that being located on the southwest corner of Park and Seminary Streets as we know it today.
John and Anna were the parents of five children, daughters Amanda, Della, and Daisy, and two sons, Albert, who was known as Clinton and son Charles.
In 1865, John and George Richards purchased the Tyler Wagon Shop around the corner on South Church Street, located where now we know the Muller Auto Body Shop today.
Together they operated a wagon and blacksmith shop.
In 1870 John Wirtz bought the lot west of his home from Miranda Murdy and built a small house for his son Clinton and there he located.
John Wirtz, who passed away on June 7th, 1880 at the age of 51, his wife Anna continued to live in their home until 1899 when it was sold to WH Peer.
and awards passed away on July 5, 1924 at the age of 84.
In 1904, the women's federated clubs were looking to replace the city library that had been housed in the front of the Librand House north of the Republican and Observer Office on Central Avenue.
They're located since 1901.
They contacted the Carnegie Corporation who offered to pay $10,000 to build a new library provided that the city would raise $1,000 for its annual maintenance.
On January 19, 1904, the communication from the Carnegie Corporation was read at the library board meeting and a vote was made that the city council would be concerning a site for it to be located.
Several individuals offered to sell their sites in the city for the new library.
But the offer of W.H.
Peer, who donated the words property to the city for library purposes in the name of his late wife, Mary McKay Peer, and accepted it then on April 26th, 1904.
The deed was then presented to the city council.
At some point after the peer purchase, the old John Wertz house and what was a part of it,
which had been donated to the city was removed.
The home moved to what would be the 700 block of South Park Street where it remained until the early 1980s and eventually that building was torn down.
Listen next week for the history of Richland County covering the Richland County Voiture 1268.
Today's history moment is a service of the Richland County Historical Society.
Members of the Historical Society enjoy reminiscing with the Aki Breaky newsletter.
A strong membership base keeps the Historical Society viable and active by promoting the study and appreciation of local history, the sponsorship of programs devoted to local history, and the maintenance and access to the Aki School Museum.
Annual memberships are just $10 for an individual or family, $20 for a business, or $100 for a lifetime individual or family membership.
Memberships can be mailed to Richland County Historical Society, 213 South Central Avenue, apartment number 1, Richland Center, Wisconsin 53581.
You can also learn more at richlandcountyhistoricalsociety.weebly.com.
Thank you, as always, Ken Thiedt.
The Wisconsin Elections Commission reported that election officials across the state successfully administered a smooth and transparent election for the November 23rd General Election.
State Chief Election Official and WEC Administrator Megan Wolfe commended the professionalism and months of preparation by local election workers, poll workers, and volunteers across more than 3,600 polling places statewide,
Polls opened on time in election operations, proceeded with only minor, isolated disruptions.
Reported issues were minimal, including fewer than two dozen instances of ballot jams or voting equipment malfunctions across the state, alongside brief power outages at two polling sites in Milwaukee.
None of these minor incidents affected voter participation or the integrity of the results.
Administrator Wolff noted that the overall process demonstrated an exceptionally well-run election.
Preliminary results and turnout estimates remain unofficial, while County Board canvases complete the official certification process, which must be completed by the Chair of the WEC by December 1st.
Wisconsin voters approved two of three referendums to amend the state constitution.
Question one was approved.
Governor Tony Evers used the sweeping veto authority to cross out digits in the Republican authored state budget to fund schools through the year.
24, 25, future governors will be unable to use the veto to create or increase any tax or fee.
Question two was rejected.
It would have restricted public health agencies from prohibiting gatherings, including religious gatherings during emergencies.
It was drafted in response to lockdowns during the COVID.
pandemic.
Question 3 was approved.
It will prohibit giving preferential treatment or discriminating based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin when offering government jobs or contracts, as well as in public education.
Wisconsin is turning global interest in dairy into new export opportunities.
During this year's World Dairy Expo in Madison, the state hosted more than 130 agricultural delegates from 21 countries.
The visitors toured farms, research facilities, genetics operations and feed business, businesses across Wisconsin, while meeting directly with producers and suppliers.
State agricultural officials say the goal is to strengthen trade relationships and create future export opportunities.
Wisconsin exported nearly $4 billion in agricultural, forestry and food products in 2025.
A high school administrator in southeastern Wisconsin is being investigated for possession of child pornography.
A search warrant was executed Wednesday morning at the Kenosha County residents of 51-year-old Thomas W. Johnson.
Investigators took electronic devices and referred two counts of possession of child pornography.
to the district attorney's office for consideration.
Johnson, district administrator of Union Grove High School in Racine County, was booked into the Kenosha County Jail.
It's not immediately clear if the child's sexual abuse material depicts any students.
The Medical College of Wisconsin has appointed Michael E. Stadler, MD as the new executive director of the Advancing a Healthier Wisconsin Endowment.
Dr. Stadler takes leadership of Wisconsin's largest health improvement philanthropy, building upon AHW's 22-year history of stewarding Blue Cross and Blue Shield United of Wisconsin conversion funds to develop health initiatives across the state.
Following a comprehensive national search, Dr. Stadler was selected to bring his medical and public health expertise to the role, reporting directly to MCW's president and CEO.
In his new capacity, Dr. Stadler aims to strengthen partnerships and direct resources to address evolving health challenges, working closely with biomedical researchers, population health experts, and community partners across Wisconsin.
Community members are invited to gather for a day of warm food, friendly competition, and family fun at the second annual Chassan Smoke Chili Cook-Off.
The event promises a lively atmosphere featuring chili tasting, fires, hot cocoa, and apple cider.
Attendees can also enjoy a grilled cheese competition alongside
The main chili showcase entry to taste the chili and receive two people's choice voting tickets cost $10 or a non-perishable food donation.
Guests are encouraged to sample the entries and cast their votes for favorite dishes.
Those interested in entering their own chili can find entry forms and competition details directly on the Facebook event website.
Every December, Mineral Point transforms into a festive winter scene reminiscent of an old-fashioned Christmas card.
On Saturday, December 5th, from 5 to 9 p.m., the historic town hosts its annual candlelight shopping celebration, welcoming visitors and locals alike to partake in an evening of holiday cheer, late-night shopping,
and community traditions.
During the event, hundreds of luminaries light up the historic streets as local shops, boutiques, and galleries remain open late.
Guests can enjoy horse-drawn carriage rides, listen to Christmas carolers, savor freshly roasted chestnuts, and visit with Santa Claus.
A spectacular fireworks display at 7 p.m.
will further brighten the December sky.
Corey Bennett, Executive Director of the Mineral Point Chamber of Commerce, highlights that the event is beloved for its nostalgic charm and sense of community, offering a wonderful way to experience Christmas traditions of the past.
Whether you attend annually or are visiting for the first time, candlelight shopping provides an opportunity to slow down and embrace the holiday spirit.
Reedsburg Area Medical Center has earned recognition from the Wisconsin Hospital Association as a checkpoint top performer, placing the facility among the top 10% of hospitals in key quality and patient care standards.
This distinction underscores RMC's relentless commitment to clinical excellence, patient safety, and superior healthcare outcomes for the community.
The hospital achieved top performer status across
three critical patient safety categories, including surgical care standards, perinatal outcomes, and readmission prevention.
These achievements reflect comprehensive quality improvement initiatives, rigorous safety protocols, and an overarching dedication to high-quality treatment at every stage of patient care.
Leadership
attributes this milestone to collaborative teamwork across every department from frontline physicians and nursing staff to clinical support teams working behind the scenes.
Dr. Elizabeth Baker, Chief Medical Officer, DPM and Surgical Specialist at RMC, emphasized that the recognition serves as a testament to the staff's dedication to going beyond expectations, reinforcing the center's ongoing mission to deliver exceptional medical care throughout the region.
Today's vital statistics are sponsored by Crowsie Monument.
Crowsie Monument Company designs and produces granite headstones, gravestones, grave markers, monuments, and memorials.
Today is November 5th.
These are today's vital statistics.
B.
58 of Richland Center died at home Friday, September 18th.
A celebration of life will be held Saturday, November 7th, from 12.30 p.m.
until 3.30 p.m.
at the Richland Center Community Center.
The Clary Memorial Funeral Home assisted the family with the arrangements.
Christine M. B.
58 of Richland Center.
Elmina Rose Fry, 88 of Richland Center, died Tuesday, November 3 at St.
Mary's Hospital in Madison.
Funeral services will be held Monday, November 9 at 1 p.m.
at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Richland Center Cemetery.
Visitation will be held.
Monday, November 9th at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 12 noon until the time of service at 1 p.m.
The Pratt funeral and cremation service is assisting the family.
Elmina Rose Fry, 88 of Richland Center.
Larry Don Ewing, 87 of Baraboo, formerly of Rural Lone Rock, died Tuesday, November 3 at St.
Clair Hospital in Baraboo.
Funeral services will be held Thursday, November 12 at 11 a.m.
at the Pratt Memorial Chapel with burial to follow in the Button Cemetery.
Visitation will be held Thursday, November 12th at the Pratt Memorial Chapel from 10 a.m.
until the time of service at 11.
Larry Don Ewing, 87 of Baraboo, formerly of rural Lone Rock.
Stephen Henry Waylon Jr.
of Richland Center died Tuesday, October 27th at the Harvest Gas Home in Richland Center.
Funeral services will be held Saturday, November 21st at 11 a.m.
at St.
Mary's Catholic Church in Richland Center.
Visitation will be held at the church from 10 a.m.
until the time of mass at 11.
Lunch will follow at the church.
After lunch concludes, Berrio will take place at St.
John's Cemetery in Spring Green with military graveside rights to be provided by the Lone Rock American Legion.
The family request memorials in Steve's name be directed to the Peace Corps or to Harvest Guest Home.
The Pratt Funeral Anchorimation Service is assisting the family with their arrangements.
Stephen Henry Oilin Jr.
of Richland Center.
Susan M. Pyfron, 63 of Richland Center, died Thursday, October 29 at SSM Health in Madison.
Per Susan's request, no formal services will be held.
The Pratt Funeral Anchorimation Service is assisting the family.
Susan M. Pyfron, 63 of Richland Center.
This concludes today's vital statistics.
Good evening, everyone, for WRCO News.
I'm Todd Copernall.
The Wisconsin Department of Health Services is saddened to report the death of an infant associated with the ongoing measles outbreak in southwestern Wisconsin.
This is the first death of this kind reported in Wisconsin since 1990.
The coroner listed the immediate cause of death as measles.
to protect the privacy of the family and the child, DHS will not release any additional information related to the death.
It is with a heavy heart we are reporting the first death of an infant connected with a measles outbreak in Wisconsin in many years.
My heart is broken for the family," said DHS Secretary Kirsten Johnson.
Any death of a child is a tragedy and even more so when it is related to a vaccine-preventable disease.
Measles can cause serious illness and death, and it is important for all Wisconsinites to evaluate their risk and take steps to protect themselves and their family.
The School District Boundary Appeal Board voted unanimously today 7-0.
to affirm the dissolution of the Hustisford School District and transfer the entire district to the Dodge Land School District.
The independent seven-member SDBAB reached its decision following public hearings, public comment, and discussion with all seven members voting in favor.
The decision marks the first dissolution of a Wisconsin school since 1990.
The Hustisford School District is a casualty of decades of an antiquated, broken school funding formula that has failed to keep pace with the costs of educating our children, State Superintendent Dr. Jill Underly said.
This decision reflects the difficult choices that school districts and communities across Wisconsin are having to make as they are forced to do more with less due to a lack of support from the state.
Our schools and communities deserve better, and if Wisconsin cannot get that done for our kids, opportunities for a better future will be lost.
I know this decision was not easy for anyone to make, and I thank the members serving on the Independent School District Boundary Appeal Board for their time, work and consideration.
I also want to recognize and thank the Hustisford School Board and Superintendent Todd Bugnacky for their thoughtful leadership, transparency and willingness to raise these difficult but very real concerns.
These decisions are never easy and the courage to confront challenging circumstances openly and honestly deserves our respect.
Their commitment to doing what is best for students and their community throughout this process is deeply appreciated.
The SDBAB consists of two representatives each from small, medium, and large districts and the state superintendent's designee.
The Board addresses issues related to district creation and dissolution, annexation, or boundary disputes.
Additional information on the dissolution process can be found on the Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction's website.
Witnesses observed a plume of black smoke emanating from the engine compartment of an amateur-built Monette Sonoray 2LT airplane shortly after takeoff, leading to a total loss of engine power and an emergency landing in a swamp near Saxtonville, October 12.
The pilot, who was the sole occupant on board, sustained serious injuries, and the aircraft was substantially damaged during the crash landing.
According to preliminary information released by the National Transportation Safety Board, the accident occurred around 3.13 p.m.
local time during the aircraft's very first test flight, with the engine failure occurring at an altitude approximately 300 feet above ground level.
The single-engine experimental aircraft suffered significant structural damage to both wings and its fuselage upon impact with the marshy terrain.
Weather conditions at the time of the flight were reported as clear with 10-mile visibility and light winds from the south.
The wreckage has been retained by federal authorities for detailed mechanical evaluation as part of the ongoing investigation.
Clean drinking water is essential to everyday life, which is why local water utilities regularly test and monitor municipal supplies to keep communities safe.
State and federal guidelines require routine sampling to check for various minerals and substances, ensuring that potential concerns are caught quickly.
Even with rigorous monitoring, occasional issues can arise, such as naturally occurring mineral spikes or elevated copper levels caused by older home plumbing.
When testing identifies higher readings in certain areas, water suppliers take immediate action to notify the public, adjust treatment processes, and provide simple steps residents can take at home.
After learning that a neighboring community had found copper in its drinking water, WRCO News contacted Steve Kruger, water superintendent for Richland Center City Utilities.
Steve told us the DNR mandates testing for substances, including copper, in drinking water on a regular basis.
While this state testing is required every three years, Richland Center has gone above and beyond that threshold with no reportable issues.
Criminal charges were filed on Tuesday in Monroe County Circuit Court against Matthew James Robert Rasmussen, 32 of Touma.
Rasmussen faces six felony charges led by a charge of attempted first-degree intentional homicide.
He is also charged with strangulation and suffocation, false imprisonment,
battery, criminal damage to property, and disorderly conduct with each count carrying repeat offender penalty enhancements.
At a preliminary hearing, Judge Richard Radcliffe set cash bond at $500,000.
Under the conditions of his release, Rasmussen is barred from committing acts or threats of violence.
entering specified exclusionary zones or possessing illegal drugs controlled substances without a prescription or drug paraphernalia.
He must also comply with Monroe County's GPS electronic monitoring program and maintain no contact with the victim or their home.
Rashmussen's initial court appearance is scheduled for January 25th at 9 a.m.
at the Monroe County Justice Center in Sparta.
Bob Nelson of Civic Media reports, Fond du Lac County Sheriff's Detectives are excavating additional locations as they continue their probe into the disappearance of 5-year-old Bobby Joe Fritz on May 14, 1983.
In July, items of interest and potential evidence were recovered during an excavation at the Campbellsport residence where he lived at the time of his disappearance.
Those items have been sent to a private laboratory for testing and results are pending.
The sites currently being excavated were identified as areas of interest that may contain evidence related to Bobby Joe's disappearance 43 years ago.
The initial search of the basement at Bobby Joe's former home uncovered potential evidence prompting a full-scale excavation in July involving sheriff's office detectives.
DCI agents, crime scene analysts, crime lab personnel, and a forensic anthropologist.
In total, investigators removed and processed approximately 505 gallon buckets full of dirt by hand from the basement.
This equated to a total weight of approximately 30,000 pounds of soil that was then sifted by hand, searched, and items of interest were collected for processing.
More than 200 residents, business owners and local officials gathered at Willow and Oak in Hillsborough on Wednesday for the 4th annual Vernon County Awards Banquet.
The yearly event honors individuals, organizations and businesses whose dedication and hard work continue to strengthen the local community.
Embracing this year's theme, stronger together, adapting, innovating, thriving, the evening showcased the resilience and creative spirit found throughout Vernon County.
Attendees enjoyed a full schedule of activities, including a brewery tour at Hillsborough Brewing Company, a panel discussion featuring local entrepreneurs, updates on county initiatives from the Community Development Department, and a formal dinner preceding the awards ceremony.
Honorees were recognized across 10 distinct categories representing a broad spectrum of industries and community contributions.
Top honors went to Mount Tabor Mill for small business of the year.
Farmers St.
Bank Hillsboro for mid-sized business of the year and Westby Cooperative Creamery for large business of the year.
Additional recognition went to the Coon Creek Community Watershed Council for Environmental Stewardship, Russ Cornford for Health Care and Emergency Response, Jad Olson for the Young Leaders Award, Sweet Rides and Sweet Pies for Event of the Year, the Stoddard Food Pantry for Non-Prophet Excellence, Tyler Fortun for the Community Impact Award, and Tim Hunt of the Vernon Reporter for the People's Choice Award.
Larkin-Brackle Economic Development and Marketing Coordinator for Vernon County expressed gratitude for the opportunity to spotlight community achievements and foster connections among attendees.
Organized by the Vernon County Community Development Department, the annual rotating banquet aims to celebrate the people and organizations driving local growth.
The Wisconsin Elections Commission reported that election officials across the state successfully administered a smooth and transparent election for the November 3rd general election.
State Chief Election Official and WEC Administrator Megan Wolfe commended the professionalism and months of preparation by local election workers, poll workers, and volunteers.
Across more than 3,600 polling places statewide,
Polls opened on time and election operations proceeded with only minor, isolated disruptions.
Reported issues were minimal, including fewer than two dozen instances of ballot jams or voting equipment malfunctions across the state, alongside brief power outages at two polling sites in Milwaukee.
None of these minor incidents affected voter participation or the integrity of the results.
Administrator Wolfe noted that the overall process demonstrated an exceptionally well-run election.
Preliminary results and turnout estimates remain unofficial, while county board canvases complete the official certification process, which must be completed by the chair of the WEC by December 1st.
Wisconsin voters approved two of three referendums to amend the state constitution.
Question one was approved.
Governor Tony Evers used the sweeping veto authority to cross out digits in the Republican-authored state budget to fund schools through the year 2004-25.
Future governors will be unable to use the veto to create or increase any tax or fee.
Question 2 was rejected.
It would have restricted public health agencies from prohibiting gatherings, including religious gatherings, during emergencies.
It was drafted in response to lockdowns during the COVID pandemic.
Question 3 was approved.
It will prohibit giving preferential treatment or discriminating based on race, sex, color, ethnicity, or national origin when offering government jobs or contracts as well as in public education.
Wisconsin is turning global interest in dairy into new export opportunities.
During this year's World Dairy Expo in Madison, the state hosted more than 130 agricultural delegates from 21 countries.
The visitors toured farms, research facilities, genetics operations and feed businesses across Wisconsin while meeting directly with producers and suppliers.
State agriculture officials say the goal is to strengthen trade relationships and create
future export opportunities.
Wisconsin exported nearly four billion dollars in agricultural, forestry and food products in 2025.
A school administrator in Southeastern Wisconsin is being investigated for possession of child pornography.
A search warrant was executed Wednesday morning at the Kenosha County residence of 51-year-old Thomas W. Johnson.
Investigators took electronic devices and referred two counts of possession of child pornography to the district attorney's office for consideration.
Johnson, district administrator of Union Grove High School in Racine County, was bo-
into the Kenosha County Jail, it's not immediately clear if the child's sexual abuse material depicts any students.
Vital statistics right after this.