CANTON, Ohio (AP) — Joe Thomas got a victory bigger than anything possible on the field.
Cleveland’s reliable left tackle, who never made the playoffs and endured so much losing, misery and turnover while playing 10,363 consecutive snaps over more than a decade with the Browns, was inducted Saturday into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.
His personal Super Bowl.
Cheered by a large contingent of barking Browns fans, Thomas, elected in his first year of eligibility, was presented by his wife, Annie, and their four children before delivering remarks that touched on family and his Midwest football journey.
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After unveiling his bronze bust on the stage inside Tom Benson Stadium, Thomas wrestled with emotions during a 20-minute speech that included some self-deprecating humor and playful jabs at his time suiting up for bad Browns teams.
Cleveland went 48-119 in his 167 games, and Thomas’ .287 winning percentage is the worst of any of the Hall’s 369 inductees.
Proudly wearing the new gold jacket presented to him on Friday night by Steelers Hall of Fame running back Jerome Bettis, Thomas thanked the six Browns coaches he played under for lessons “I’ll take with me for the rest of my life.”
He then addressed Cleveland’s absurd revolving door of quarterbacks during his tenure.
“To my quarterbacks, all 20 of them,” Thomas said, who made 10 straight Pro Bowls and was a six-time All-Pro. “Yes, I blocked for more different starting quarterbacks than any player in NFL history. What an honor.”
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The enshrinement weekend also served as a Cleveland reunion as dozens of Thomas’s former teammates — many of them fellow offensive linemen — that returned to Northeast Ohio to celebrate and party with him.
“Thank you for always showing up for me,” he told his teammates in the audience. “Thank you for giving me the ability to always count on you guys. If you notice, I didn’t mention any of my backup left tackles. I’m sorry about that. I never gave you an opportunity to go on the field and show what you could do, but I did make you take all my practice reps.”
One of his closest teammates, current Browns All-Pro left guard Joel Bitonio, who lined up on the right side of Thomas for four seasons, arrived after practicing an hour away in Berea, Ohio, earlier in the day.
Even in the lean seasons, and there were many in Cleveland, former Browns punter Dave Zastudil said Thomas never wavered.
“He always brought some kind of humor to the locker room, even on days that maybe the team was down,” Zastudil said. “You always looked at Joe, he was smiling, always cracked jokes. But what I liked about Joe was whether it was the guy making eggs, the guy cleaning up the field afterwards, he always treated everybody the exact same.
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“Football never got to his head, he was always the most humble successful person I think I’ve ever met.”
Thomas attributed his humility and more to his parents, Eric and Sally.
While pointing out his consecutive play streak, which ended when he tore a triceps during Cleveland’s 0-16 season in 2017, Thomas thanked his dad for showing him the value of hard work and loyalty.
“I remember you strapping cross country skis on your feet and going to work in a blizzard in Milwaukee, Wisconsin,” Thomas said to his father, who sat at a table in front of the stage with his wife and grandchildren. “Because, you know what? The calendar says it’s a workday and we got work to do.
“At the time, I didn’t really know what the quote ‘availability is the most important ability’ meant, but that’s exactly what it meant to you and those were the values that I learned from you, buddy.”
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Thomas would receive the same loyalty for Browns fans, who remained faithful to the team despite double-digit loss seasons.
“Even if we were losing, you guys were there on Sundays barking in the Dawg Pound and partying in the Muni Lot,” he said. “You guys are the heartbeat of the Cleveland Browns, and it was truly my honor to be able to represent you on and off the field for 11 seasons.”
During her introductory video, Annie Thomas focused on her husband’s steadiness.
“He’s the one you can rely on,” she said. “His legacy is he is consistent. You can count on him no matter what. If you need him, he will be there and he will be perfect.”
Thomas was exactly that for the Browns.
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Copyright 2023 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.
Wisconsin is a charming state brimming with natural attractions to explore across all seasons. Blessed by the elegant shores of Lake Michigan alongside other series of lakes, rivers, forests, and wildlife, the outdoor scenery in Wisconsin is as pretty as it comes. While the state is renowned for its chilly winters, it becomes a dazzling world of beauty and adventures in summer, as the lakes unfreeze and the land is kissed by the sun. From the irresistible shores of Lake Geneva with its thrilling water sports to the Swiss appeal of New Glarus, step into these eight lovely towns in Wisconsin this summer and have a blast!
Sister Bay
Aerial view of Sister Bay.
Sister Bay is a lovely small town in Door County that promises a sensational summer experience. Typical of Door County towns, the shores of Lake Michigan are always a draw, and Sister Bay is one of the county’s finest waterfront communities. Hence, the town’s beach, boasting 1,900 feet of public waterfront, is a focal point for tourists during the sunny season, serving as a launch pad to kayak, paddle, boat, sail, and swim on the lake. Otherwise, visitors can bask under the sun, build sand castles, enjoy picnics, catch the sunset, and promenade the massive waterfront area. Sneak out from the beach to check out what the past looks like at Corner of the Past Museum and for art lovers, check out handcrafted works sourced locally and regionally at Earth Art Studio. Don’t forget to dine at the Waterfront Restaurant or Sister Bay Bowl and enjoy mouthwatering treats.
Ephraim
Siblings walking at Eagle Tower in Peninsula State Park. Image credit Christine Dannhausen-Brun via Shutterstock.
Ephraim is a small town with just below 300 residents; however, it has plenty to offer in summer. For starters, it is across Eagle Harbor, with scenic views of bluffs and the picturesque shoreline of Green Bay. The outdoors already looks enticing from its location, but it gets more sensational at Peninsula State Park, where one can spend the entire summer exploring. The park features 468 campsites, 150-foot bluffs, Eagle Bluff Lighthouse, hiking/biking trails, a sand beach, a summer theatre, a nature center, a 76-foot observation tower, and an 18-hole golf course. Elsewhere, history buffs can immerse in the past with historic tours at the Ephraim Historical Society. Regarding dining, Ephraim offers great options like Old Post Office Restaurant with its waterfront views and Sip with its exotic and colorful culinary offers.
New Glarus
Shops in New Glarus, Wisconsin.
New Glarus is a small town in Green County famous for its nickname – the little Switzerland of America. True to its name, this town offers a taste of Switzerland, especially as it is home to the Swiss Historical Village Museum, which features 14 historic buildings filled with artifacts reflecting Swiss pioneer life. Chalet of the Golden Fleece Museum and the Swiss Center of North America are more attractions in town dedicated to preserving and showcasing Swiss culture. Away from its Swiss heritage, New Glarus invites adventurers to the 435-acre New Glarus Woods State Park, featuring hiking/biking trails alongside campsites and picnic areas. The park also links to the 24-mile Sugar River State Trail, where adventurers can hike and bike across woods, farmlands, and rolling hills. If there’s time, New Glarus Bakery is a great place to stop by for fresh treats, while Bailey’s Run Vineyard and Winery offers delicious wine and great vineyard views.
Elkhart Lake
Event on the grounds of The Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake, Wisconsin. Image credit ajkelly via Shutterstock.
Elkhart Lake is a small village big on history and outdoor charms. A summer vacation here can start at the Elkhart Lake Historic Depot and Museum, where tourists can glimpse the town’s railroad past. The Henschel’s Indian Museum is another historic attraction in town, located in an archaeological site, housing a collection of Indian pottery, stone tools, copper implements, and other artifacts. For outdoor buffs, Fireman’s Park and Beach is the town’s only public beach and opens in summer. The beach features gorgeous sands, picnic tables, grills, and the charming waters of Elkhart Lake for dips and water sports. In addition, the all-season Broughton Sheboygan Marsh Park is a must-visit outdoor attraction in town, with fishing, camping, and picnic areas alongside an 80-foot observation. After the exploration, visitors can always chill at Lake Street Café and enjoy palatable meals.
Hayward
The world’s largest muskie, at the National Fresh Water Fishing Hall of Fame.
Hayward is a unique town in Sawyer County, famed for its numerous surrounding lakes. However, it is more renowned for hosting the world’s largest muskellunge (aka muskie) sculpture at the National Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame and Museum. While the museum houses records of the world’s largest freshwater fish in the US, tourists can climb to the mouth of the 143-foot muskie sculpture to enjoy views of the town and Hayward Lake. Fishing enthusiasts can hop the many lakes outside the town, such as Round Lake, Sand Lake, Lake Namakagon, and Chippewa Flowage, to fish bass, muskie, crappie, and walleye, among others. Otherwise, recline back in town to enjoy Lake Hayward Public Beach by swimming, building sand castles, picnicking, and promenading. For animal lovers, Hayward offers the Wilderness Walk Zoo, home to lemurs, fawns, tigers, wolves, and bears. If there’s still time, head to Out of the Woods Winery to taste some of the finest wines in America.
Eagle River
Street view in Eagle River, Wisconsin
Eagle River is a unique town renowned for its 28 connected lakes between Eagle River and Three Lakes. The 28 chains of lakes make up the world’s largest inland lake network, so a summer vacation in this town will surely include a lot of water adventures, although there’s more. Once here, Eagle Lake County Park and Beach is a great spot to begin an adventure as it offers scenic lake views, birdwatching opportunities, picnic pavilions, a swimming pier, and a beach. Silver Lake Park is an alternative just outside the town, featuring picnic stands, a beach, and a playground. Away from the numerous lakes, history enthusiasts can learn about the town’s railroad history at the Eagle River Depot Museum. For ardent hikers, hit the 12-mile Anvil Lake Trail or the mile-long Franklin Nature Trail for sightseeing and birdwatching. When it’s time to wine and dine, head to Andy’s Pontoon Saloon or Braywood.
Sturgeon Bay
Sister Bay is a Town on the Wisconsin Door Peninsula.
Sturgeon Bay is an inviting town in the bay of the same name that promises a sensational waterfront summer experience. Once here, visitors can head to the captivating Cave Point County Park to hike to magnificent dolomite cliffs overlooking the charming Lake Michigan. Next, step down from the cliffs and join kayakers on the lake to discover underwater caves. Proceed with more adventures at Sunset Park, featuring an 18-acre lake, a swimming beach, a short trail, sports areas, and mesmerizing sunset views. Mix the experience with a little history at the Door County Maritime Museum which educates the public about the region’s maritime roots. Meanwhile, Sonny’s Pizzeria and Nightingale Super Club are great spots to stop by for world-class dining, while the Third Avenue Playhouse hosts exciting shows.
Lake Geneva
Lake Geneva, Wisconsin
Lake Geneva is a charming town in Walworth County with so much to offer year-round. In summer, the town is especially exciting as the waters of Geneva Lake offer endless opportunities for cruising, boating, fishing, kayaking, and canoeing. Visitors are also invited to recline at Riviera Beach to sunbathe, build sand castles, play, catch the sunset, and swim in the water. Head to Lake Geneva Ziplines and Adventures for some thrills to tour nine ziplines, five sky bridges, and four spiral staircases. History buffs can head to the Geneva Lake Museum to see Potawatomi Indian artifacts, Geneva Hotel artifacts, and other historic exhibits about the area. Before the end of the vacation, grab a souvenir from Trader’s Jack Gift Shop and White River Gifts to remind you of the town’s amazing features.
There are tons of reasons why towns like these have continued to top the list of summer travelers. With their irresistible natural and man-made charms, they offer a thing or two for every kind of visitor. From history buffs to foodies, adventurers, and laid-back visitors, everybody in these towns will have something to appreciate. Plus, each town is beside one or more water bodies, and there’s no better place to be in the middle of summer than near plenty of H2O. Visit these towns today and create memories while the summer lasts.
Wisconsin starting inside linebacker Jake Chaney will switch his jersey number from No. 36 to No. 1 this fall, per his recent Instagram post.
After starting in nine of UW’s 13 contests a season ago, Chaney is poised to lead Wisconsin’s left insider linebacker group in 2024. The Cape Coral, Florida native enters his fourth season in Madison as a staple in the middle of Mike Tressel’s defensive unit.
As a junior, the 5-foot-11, 210-pounder tallied 80 tackles in 2023, ranking second in the category behind star safety Hunter Wohler. Chaney registered a career-best 11 tackles against Iowa on Oct. 14 and notched seven tackles in the Badgers’ primetime matchup vs. Ohio State on Oct. 28.
The senior appeared in 12 games as a sophomore 2022, totaling 38 tackles and 4 tackles for loss. He made his collegiate debut at Soldier Field in Chicago, Illinois against Notre Dame in 2021.
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Appears Jake Chaney will be sporting a new number this fall. Love the single digits. pic.twitter.com/jpnSCSsiws
Jaheim Thomas projects to be the starting inside linebacker along side Chaney. Christian Alliegro, and transfer additions Tackett Curtis and Sebastian Cheeks project to round out the unit.
With contests against Alabama, USC and Oregon on UW’s 2024 schedule, Chaney and company will have their hands full against some of the nation’s top offenses. Transfer additions of outside linebackers Leon Lowery (Syracuse) and John Pius (William & Mary), paired with returning stars Wohler and Ricardo Hallman, will give the unit a much-needed boost.
The number of workers in Wisconsin who lost their jobs in June decreased slightly from the previous month.
In June, 429 people found themselves out of a job, while in May nearly 800 workers at nine nine companies were laid off, reports filed with the state show.
Despite what was going on with those companies, the economy in Wisconsin is doing well with unemployment at 2.9% in May, below the national average of 4%, according to the state Department of Workforce Development. There were 3,048,000 people working in the state, 6,500 more than a year ago.
“Wisconsin’s economy continues to gain momentum, setting new records in state employment and private jobs,” DWD Secretary Amy Pechacek said in a statement.
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“These numbers validate what we know is true: Wisconsin residents are eager to work, employers are eager to employ them, and DWD endeavors to support sustainable employment opportunities for all.”
In the Milwaukee metro area, the economy showed modest improvement in 10 of 23 indicators monitored by Metropolitan Milwaukee Association of Commerce.
“The aggregate number of improved indicators in the metro area increased for the first time in six months, perhaps an early sign that the local economic trend may have turned the corner,” Bret Mayborne, MMAC vice president of economic research, said in a statement. “It’s too early to say anything conclusive but the improvement in the aggregate total as well as a slower decline in overall nonfarm job levels represent positive signs.”
Here are the companies that laid off workers in June:
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Charter Communications
On Friday, Charter Communications announced it was closing its regional support center in Fond du Lac which means laying off 122 people. Layoffs are expected to begin August 27.
Sun Nuclear Corp.
On June 25, the Sun Nuclear Corp., a Mirion Medical company, informed the DWD that it was closing its facility in Middleton and laying off 39 workers starting August 30. Sun Nuclear Corp. worked on cancer treatments.
Strauss Bands and Logistics
On June 4, Strauss Brands and Logistics, a natural meat packaging company in Franklin, informed the state and workers that it was going to end production at its facility in Franklin and layoff 70 people. The layoffs are set to begin on August 5.
The company moved its grass-fed beef product line to Ruprecht, an Illinois-based division of Kilcoy Global Foods.
More: Four years after attempting to expand, Strauss Brands is now closing its Franklin facility
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Goodwill Manufacturing, Inc.
On June 4, Goodwill announced it plans to close laundry and linen services facility in Milwaukee, laying off 136 employees. The layoffs are scheduled to begin on August 3.
In 1974 Goodwill began offering commercial laundry services to the Naval Station Great Lakes in northern Illinois and expanded it to include hospitals, clinics, and nursing homes throughout northern Illinois and southeastern Wisconsin.
More: Goodwill laying off 136 workers, closing Milwaukee laundry and linen services facility
Bon Appetit Management Company
Lawrence University in Appleton let its contract with Bon Appetit Management Company end on June 30 and as a result 60 employees will be laid off on August 3. However, according to the letter the company sent to DWD, a new food service company does plan to offer jobs to many of those impacted workers.
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