WFHR and WIRI News

John Berg: From Fur to Timber in WI Rapids 24.02.2026 20:41 ↓

Local historian John Berg delves into Wisconsin’s transformation from a fur trade hub to a timber powerhouse in the 1800s. He highlights the complex interplay between indigenous tribes like the Menominee and Ho-Chunk and European traders. Guests: Melissa Kaye , John Berg

Mayor Matt Zacher WI Rapids February update 23.02.2026 22:02 ↓

Mayor Matt Zacher talks about the recent ambulance chase that ended in an arrest. Common Council updates from the recent meeting and news about plans for the Fourth of July celebration. Guests: Melissa Kaye , Matt Zacher

Assumption Catholic Schools February Update 17.02.2026 19:45 ↓

Matt Zakowski Director of Advancement/Alumni relations with Assumption Catholic Schools talks about upcoming school events and fundraisers as well as February being enrollment month for Assumption. Guests: Melissa Kaye , Matt Zakowski

Port Edwards School District February Updates 16.02.2026 21:29 ↓

Port Edwards School District Administrator Jim Bena outlines referendum projects coming up this summer and some already underway. Elementary music teacher Jeff Erdmann gears up for the annual ‘Opera for the Young’ performance. Guests: Melissa Kaye , Jim Bena , Jeff Erdmann

Scott Krug on election bills, property tax, and tech college funding 10.02.2026 21:44 ↓

Representative Scott Krug brings an update from the 72nd Assembly District on election bills, property tax relief, and funding for technical colleges across Wisconsin. Guests: Melissa Kaye , Scott Krug

Wood County update with Sheriff’s Chief Deputy Ellis 09.02.2026 20:52 ↓

Chief Deputy Quentin Ellis discusses work being done on crypto kiosk legislation to protect against scams. New Coordinated Response Specialist Cherith DeFabbio gives an overview of the Deflection Care Initiative and how it can help reduce incarceration for non-violent offenders. Guests: Melissa Kaye , Quentin Ellis , Cherith DeFabbio

Jeff Penzkover & Brandon Vruwink discuss homelessness 03.02.2026 23:25 ↓

Wisconsin Rapids Alderperson and Wood County Board of Supervisors member Jeff Penzkover and Director of Human Services in Wood County Brandon Vruwink discuss how the county and the city are collaborating on the issues surrounding homelessness in our community. Guests: Melissa Kaye , Brandon Vruwink , Jeff Penzkover

Wood County Board Chair Lance Pliml 02.02.2026 21:41 ↓

Board of Supervisors Chair Lance Pliml discusses District 9 spring primary, sales tax revenues, Edgewater Haven updates, rezoning in Saratoga, and housing issues in the county. Guests: Melissa Kaye , Lance Pliml