Corey Ruiz funeral is Friday (MADISON)
Funeral services are today for a man fatally shot by Madison police. A Wisconsin DOJ investigation into the July 22 police shooting of 38-year-old Corey Ruiz is ongoing. His funeral will be held at 11:00 a.m. at Madison’s Fountain of Life Church. Reverend Al Sharpton will deliver the eulogy, and civil rights attorney Ben Crump, who is representing the Ruiz family, will deliver a “Call to Justice.” Ruiz was shot during a struggle with four officers who were attempting to arrest him in a busy near east side intersection. That scene is not far from the fatal MPD shootings of Tony Robinson in 2015 and Paul Heenan in 2012, and was the site of a protest encampment.
12th Wonder of Wisconsin named (MADISON)
Madison’s Capitol Square joins other must-see Wisconsin attractions The Wisconsin State Capitol and Capitol Square are named a “Wonder of Wisconsin” by Travel Wisconsin and Governor Tony Evers. The designation highlights both the historic Capitol building and the surrounding square, home to popular events like the Dane County Farmers’ Market, Concerts on the Square, and Taste of Madison. The Capitol’s architecture, history, and panoramic views make it a standout attraction. The Capitol joins 11 other Wisconsin landmarks on the Wonders of Wisconsin list, including Devil’s Lake, the Apostle Islands, and Lambeau Field.
Developers once again look to redevelop Madison landmarks (MADISON)
New plans to replace a pair of iconic downtown Madison spots with housing. Salt Lake City-based Lotus Company will be the fifth developer since 2000 to propose tearing down the Essen House and Come Back Inn. The latest plans would replace the buildings with a hotel, retail space, and around 200 low-income apartments. Previous plans to replace the aging properties failed in 2024, 2019 and earlier. Lotus Company will have to complete the full planning process with Madison officials but are hoping to have the new buildings open by summer of 2029.
State Fair Blue Ribbon Auction raises more than $405,000 (WEST ALLIS)
The Wisconsin State Fair’s Blue Ribbon Livestock Auction raised more than $405,000 this year to support young exhibitors and youth agriculture programs statewide. Foundation President Jenny Gehl says the event’s energy is unmatched, drawing supporters, buyers, families, the U-W Marching Band and even Governor Tony Evers. The auction featured 38 animals, with proceeds funding scholarships, youth grants and exhibitor recognition programs. A new Youth Impact Grant Program also awarded more than 22-thousand dollars to help young people participate in livestock projects and gain hands-on agriculture experience.