The government shutdown continues to impact millions across the United States, and one of the most pressing issues is the uncertainty surrounding the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, commonly known as food stamps. Low-income families rely on SNAP to put food on the table, but with the shutdown stretching on, the concern over whether benefits will be distributed in the coming months is growing. In Wisconsin, the situation is especially tense. Governor Tony Evers rec

Across Wisconsin, family court decisions continue to reveal a deep imbalance in custody outcomes between mothers and fathers. While state law defines placement as gender-neutral, data suggest otherwise. Fathers frequently report losing primary placement or decision-making rights despite being active and fit parents. This disparity has prompted growing calls for reform and accountability, not just for judges but also for the guardians ad litem (GALs) who influence these decisi

October 27, 2025 Bail Hearing The bail hearing recordings and related information shared here are posted for transparency and public awareness purposes only . The goal is to promote understanding of court procedures and accountability within the justice system. All addresses, phone numbers, and other personal identifying information have been redacted from the audio to protect the privacy of all parties involved. No content has been altered beyond these redactions, and noth

Narrated Video on Golden Plated Joey Golden Jr, Owner of Golden Plated In Manitowoc, WI (Photo: Markola Williams) Downtown Manitowoc just got a little brighter and a lot tastier. Golden Plated, located at 905 Washington Street just two blocks from Washington Park, is bringing something new and exciting to the city’s main strip. Fun fact—it now calls the building that once housed  Warren’s Diner  home, giving the space a fresh start while honoring a local favorite. In a lot of

Judge Jerilyn Dietz nomination for an "Ally" award The recent debate in Manitowoc, Wisconsin, has centered on the efficiency of the judicial system and the question of accountability for the county’s low recidivism rates. Many have criticized Circuit Court Commissioner Patricia Koppa for what they perceive as leniency during bail hearings. However, a deeper look suggests that the responsibility extends beyond the commissioner, pointing toward the presiding judges whose polici

While the community scrutinizes Commissioner Koppa for bail decisions, the judges who set policy and actively participate in recovery organizations remain largely unexamined.

By Markola Williams | The Vocal Box News Network October 19, 2025 Listen to the full podcast episode Here !!!!!! Manitowoc County Jail, WI (Photo Credit: Markola Williams When people talk about the prison system in America, they often say that once you are in, you are in for life. It is a phrase that speaks to how deeply incarceration can trap someone, not just physically, but mentally and socially. But does it really have to stay that way? This episode of These Days Podcast

Markola Williams October 17, 2025 Cincinnati Bengals celebrating after another big play (credit: NFL) When the lights dimmed in Cincinnati on Thursday night, the gridiron was set for a showdown that lived up to the name “The Icy Hot Bowl.” On one side, Pittsburgh was looking to take control of the AFC North. On the other, Cincinnati came in with a purpose to prove that even without Joe Burrow, their offense still had enough firepower to burn one of the league’s most respected

The world of rock is saying goodbye to one of its brightest stars. Ace Frehley, the original lead guitarist of Kiss, leaves behind a legacy of groundbreaking music, creativity, and charisma that forever changed the sound and style of rock. Read the full tribute on Vocal Box News

Markola Williams October 14, 2025 D’Angelo: The Soul of a Generation Early Life Michael Eugene Archer, known to the world as D’Angelo, was born on February 11, 1974, in Richmond, Virginia. From a young age, his deep connection to music was undeniable. He grew up surrounded by gospel and soul, as his father was a Pentecostal minister. This early exposure to spiritual and expressive music helped shape the foundation of his artistic style. By his teenage years, D’Angelo was alre

Markola Williams October 13, 2025 The Manitowoc, Wisconsin sign welcomes visitors arriving by the S.S. Badger car ferry, a symbol of the city’s connection between lakefront heritage and modern tourism. (Photo by Markola Williams) Manitowoc is writing a new economic story along the western shore of Lake Michigan. The city is leaning on its historic shipbuilding and manufacturing roots while building a future through tourism, retail expansion, and community revitalization. With

Markola Williams June 16, 2005 In a pivotal move during Men's Health Awareness Month, Spotify has partnered with Backline, a leading mental health organization dedicated to supporting music industry professionals, to launch a first-of-its-kind mental health hub tailored specifically for those working in music. This initiative arrives at a critical time, underscoring the urgent need to confront mental health struggles that have long been endemic in the music world, particularl