La Crosse Talk PM WIZM: Recent Episodes
Rick Solem
Listener conversations about the days events in and around the La Crosse area. Weekdays from 5-6pm on WIZM 1410AM and 92.3FM
A committee meeting gets hacked, the ongoing debate over a City Administrator, a $600,000 push for a public market, and millions going toward the old Kmart and Shopko sites — those are just a couple of topics we hit on with La Crosse City Council president Tamra Dickinson in studio, ahead of Thursday's monthly meeting.
The council meets at 6 p.m. at City Hall, where members could face a crucial vote on creating a city administrator position. It’s a debate that’s been building for over three years, but one of many interesting things happening at council Thursday.
Topics covered in this episode:
- Zoom Hijacking Investigation: What happened during last week's committee meeting, how quick IT action shut it down, and where things stand with Zoom and local police.
- City Administrator Debate: The amount of public outreach on creating the position, how much we've covered it on the show, and what needs to happen before a final vote.
- Public Market Push: Allocating $600,000 to update a 2017 feasibility study and partner with the RDA on pre-development plans.
- Kmart & Shopko Site Funding: Redirecting up to $3 million in TID 11 funds toward critical underground utility infrastructure to support new developments at Bridgeview Plaza and the former Kmart lot.
- Healthcare Committee Referendum: A petition drive with around 5,000 valid signatures puts a new Citizens Advisory Healthcare Action Committee on the November ballot.
- North Side Railroad Crossings Saved: How local pushback forced the DOT to abandon plans to dead-end Avon and St. Cloud streets.
- 18-Month Data Center Moratorium: Why the city is pausing new data center builds to align with county policy while studying future land use.
- Bird City Designation: Why La Crosse is reapplying for Bird City status—and how local stray cat policies keep it off the "high-flying" list.
Check out the full Thursday City Council meeting agenda and details on the La Crosse Legistar Page.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Federal Highway Administrator Sean McMaster in studio, after touring La Crosse and local infrastructure projects across Western Wisconsin — plus we hit him with drivers' real dilemmas like orange-cone gridlock, bike lanes and roundabout madness.
KEY TOPICS:
- The Lansing Bridge Lifeline: Why McMaster says the Mississippi River ferry might be retired sooner than expected, and what contractors are doing to accelerate the new bridge opening.
- The Federal Stance on Bike Lanes: Where federal taxpayer dollars are going, why motor vehicles are getting top priority under USDOT, and where that leaves city bike projects.
- "Turbo Roundabouts" & Traffic Lights: From multi-lane intersections to cutting 12 months off environmental reviews, McMaster breaks down how D.C. plans to fix everyday traffic.
- First Impressions of La Crosse: Why McMaster called La Crosse a "great little town"—and the one traffic light he made a mental note to report back on.
- From Corporate Executive to Federal Highways: What brought the former Boeing and HNTB leader back into government, and what his wife really complains about when they hit the road.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What issues are facing young people right now? We got the answers from three La Crosse residents who represent different factions of the Young Democrats.
Jake Williams (State Chair of the Young Democrats of Wisconsin), Hannah Dull (Chair of the La Crosse Young Democrats), and Grant Mathu (Vice Chair of the La Crosse Young Democrats & La Crosse County Board Supervisor) stopped by the studio to break down the political and economic landscape for people in their 20s.
SHOW TOPICS:
- The Affordability Grind: Why rent, groceries (frozen pizzas) and healthcare make saving for a home feel impossible — and what government is (not) doing about it.
- Data Centers & 160-Acre Pickleball Courts: Mathu breaks down the La Crosse County Board's 28-2 vote to pass a data center moratorium, why the issue is uniting voters across party lines, and what happens to these massive facilities in 20 years.
- The Governor’s Race & Primary Politics: Navigating the Dem Party's primary neutrality, candidate dropouts, ranked-choice voting, and Francesca Hong’s viral stance on data centers.
- Local Headlines & Pop Culture: Reacting to a bizarre Zoom-hacking incident at a La Crosse Finance & Personnel meeting, local road and pool closures, and why Real Steel and Oblivion hold the answers to modern politics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Data centers, the Wisconsin governor's race, and how a failed private insurance policy turned him into a defender of BadgerCare — Republican candidate for Assembly District 95, Cedric Schnitzler, stopped in studio to talk about those topics and more.
Running against Democratic incumbent Jill Billings, Schnitzler — the Monroe County Board chair — broke down why Monroe paused data center developments, slammed lawmakers in Madison for walking away from the $2.3 billion state budget surplus deal, and called for cutting red tape to aid rural childcare providers.
Key Topics
-
- Data Centers: Discusses the state's role in regulating data centers as Monroe County enacts an 18-month moratorium to study local impacts.
- Healthcare: Explains why he supports BadgerCare based on personal family experience and calls for more cost transparency in the system.
- State Budget Surplus: Shares his perspective on the failed $2.3B surplus package and why lawmakers need to stay in Madison to fund special education and property tax relief.
- Childcare: Addresses rural childcare shortages and advocates for regulatory relief for local providers.
- Governor’s Race: Weighs in on potential Francesca Hong vs. Tom Tiffany matchup and advocates for a return to middle-ground governance.
Schnitzler has served on the Monroe County Board for nearly 30 years — including a decade as chair — and spent 30 years as an organic dairy farmer before transitioning to beef cattle. Beyond county government, he serves on the Wisconsin Counties Association Board of Directors and acts as a caregiver at home for disabled children.
Read more on his campaign page or on Facebook.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
School is about to start again and the La Crosse teachers' union president stopped in studio to talk about touring the old Trane building donated to the district.
La Crosse Education Association president Jill Schams also discussed where the union stands politically in the Wisconsin governor's race, private school voucher funding, and the Act 10 lawsuit.
Here's what we covered:
- Inside the Trane Building: What Schams saw during her walk-through, why the space is brighter and more usable than it looks from the outside, and how the district could roll it out in phases for teacher training, higher-ed partnerships, and sports facilities.
- Starting School on Aug. 20: How applying for a DPI waiver saves the district roughly $200,000 by aligning busing schedules with local private schools—and why teachers and parents prefer structured mid-year breaks.
- The Act 10 Lawsuit Heading to the State Supreme Court: What a potential reversal would mean for local teachers looking to regain full collective bargaining rights over class sizes, workday hours, and working conditions.
- Voucher School Funding & Political Endorsements: Why the state union is backing candidate Kelda Roys in the primary, plus the push to itemize private voucher school costs directly on local property tax bills, and how over $2 million leaves La Crosse public schools annually.
- Elementary Consolidation & Teacher Layoffs: How the merger of State Road into Pamel Creek and upcoming building closures will impact staffing, and why natural retirements should prevent major teacher layoffs.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s committee week in the City of La Crosse, where the creation of an administrator position is back on the agenda, along with new movement on a potential public market.
Mac Kiel stopped in studio to help break down the key items up for discussion across Judiciary & Administration (J&A) and Finance & Personnel (F&P).
We talk about how a 4,500+ signature petition could lead to a new committee, TID funds slotted for the old Kmart and Shopko sites, and a proposed pause on data center developments.
Plus, Kiel helps break down the city’s projected $8 million budget shortfall for next year and how that compares to this time last year, when La Crosse was facing a $5 million shortfall at this time.
Just to note, the J&A committee meets at 6 p.m. Wednesday (agenda) due to National Night Out, while the F&P (agenda) meets at its regularly scheduled 6 p.m. Thursday time.
Topics moving through committee:
- Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan: Key updates and greenway adjustments
- Public Market: $600,000 in TID funds proposed to update feasibility studies
- Capital Improvement Project: Reviewing the $60 million CIP budget
- Downtown Parking: $187,000 assessment for properties in the downtown district
- Town of Campbell Incorporation: $90,000 allocation to support the city's legal appeal
- Legal Settlement: $75,000 city payout for a vehicle accident claim
- Public Safety & Environment: Police department SAFE camera donation and filing to reinstate La Crosse as a official "Bird City"
Kiel is a former La Crosse City Council member, who is an advocate for providing the public with what is happening with city government. She also serves on some city boards and works with the unsheltered population.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s been a wild 24 hours — and an even wilder three weeks — in Wisconsin politics. Just as the latest Marquette Law School Poll wrapped up, another major candidate dropped out of the Democratic primary for governor.
So, who better to help explain that than the premier pollster in the state? Dr. Charles Franklin, director of the Marquette Law School Poll, joins alongside UW-L political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky.
Together, they break down the latest polling data, unpack the chaos of a rapidly shifting candidate field — including Franklin’s story about hearing Mandela Barnes dropped out right after putting out a new poll and nearly driving into a ditch — and look under the hood at how modern polling actually works in a high-stakes swing state.
MAIN TOPICS:
- The Primary Moving Target: Dr. Franklin shares his real-time reaction to major candidate exits (including Barnes dropping out right after polling completed) and explains how pollsters re-allocate "second choice" votes and "leaners."
- The Rise of Francesca Hong: A breakdown of candidate trajectories — how Hong built steady, organic momentum among younger and very liberal voters while other campaigns remained flat or stalled out.
- How Polling Actually Works Today: Busting the myth of random digit landline calling. Dr. Franklin explains Marquette's modern hybrid methodology using voter lists, text/email links, online panels, and how they filter out low-attention or "trash" responses.
- MAGA, Socialist & Political Buzzwords: A look at Marquette's polling experiment on "Democratic Socialism" vs. "DSA" — and a discussion on how labels like "MAGA," "Socialist," and "Fascist" are weaponized on the campaign trail and whether overusing them dilutes their impact.
- The Limited Power of Endorsements: Why 89% of state Democrats approve of Gov. Tony Evers, yet his endorsement of David Crowley hasn't automatically translated into primary vote totals — plus why primary voters consistently make up their minds in the final days.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From the business community's perspective, La Crosse needs a city administrator.
La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Sam Scinta and government relations director Allyson Fergot in studio explaining why 99% of their members support the move — and why they believe operating without one is costing the city more in the long run.
HIGHLIGHTS:
-
- Overwhelming business support: Why 99% of the Chamber's 540-plus members—from small shops to non-profits and healthcare—back the position.
- Streamlining development: Why local non-profits told the Chamber they would rather have a city administrator than a new zoning code to cut through red tape.
- Managing a $74 million operation: Why treating city government like a complex enterprise requires consistent, professional management alongside elected policy makers.
- Predictability for local business: How a central administrator creates clear processes and stable leadership that outlasts political turnover.
Next week the city council begins again its debate on creating the charter ordinance position, beginning with the Judiciary and Administrative Committee (agenda) at 5 p.m. Wednesday. The council did get the same ordinance through by a 7-6 vote back in February, but it needed a supermajority.
NOTE: This interview was recorded prior to Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey releasing a video opposing the proposed charter ordinance. The mayor argued the specific legislation takes statutory power away from elected leadership and removes the voice of the people from City Hall. Watch and read more about the mayor's response here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A day after the first and only televised debate, UW-La Crosse professor emeritus, Dr. Joe Heim, joined to give his thoughts on the Wisconsin governor's race.
Most of the focus was on the race in general, though all five Democratic candidates debated the night before.
Heim talks about Francesca Hong running as a Democratic Socialist and Tom Tiffany being a far-right candidate and how that might play out in a purple state, where a lot of elections are decided by just a few percentage points.
We also discussed the saga over Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez dropping out, David Crowley getting back in the race and Gov. Tony Evers endorsing him — over his Mandela Barnes, his old lieutenant governor.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We caught up with Emily Berge on the campaign trail for the U.S. House in Wisconsin's 3rd District, getting her thoughts on financial disclosure extensions granted to her opponent.
Also, Brad Williams joins us to break down two cases going through the courts — the Cody Alland murder trial and the case of a 61-year-old driver who hit 27-year-old Tarianna Thompson with his pickup after failing to stop at an intersection. Thompson, who was riding her bike, died nine days later, and an inquest jury on Monday recommended charges be brought against the driver, Richard Myron.
In the second half of the show, with the Aug. 11 primary just weeks away, Berge discusses her growing momentum in the district.
In this segment:
- Gaining Ground: Berge reacts to political analysts pointing to her grassroots momentum and shares how volunteer numbers are building across the district.
- Voter Priorities: Key issues voters and young adults are raising on the trail, including healthcare, housing, data centers, and getting money out of politics.
- Campaign Finance & Transparency: Berge highlights the importance of compliance following Sarah Rodriguez dropping out of the governor's race over campaign finance errors, and addresses why opponent Rebecca Cooke’s delayed personal financial disclosure is a concern for primary voters.
- Federal Policy & Foreign Affairs: Her take on Congressional stock trading bans, campaign finance reforms, and voter frustration over military spending versus domestic needs like healthcare.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He's worked with the city of La Crosse on many projects. A popular one right now is redeveloping the old Kmart lot.
Marvin Wanders, CEO of Three-Sixty Real Estate Solutions, stopped in studio to talk about his experience working with La Crosse and other municipalities in the region, and how he feels about the need for a city administrator position.
City administrator is back in front of council during the August cycle, beginning next week with the Judiciary & Administrative Committee. It could be on the City Plan Commission agenda, as well. That one isn't up yet.
IN THIS INTERVIEW:
- Why a City Administrator? How professional management, clear structure, and department alignment impact city growth and $80M budget efficiency.
- Old Kmart Site Update & Timeline: Where the Copper Rocks project currently stands with the city, what needs to happen with the development agreement, and the timeline for when demolition and site work could potentially start next spring.
- New Local Housing Projects: A look at the newly openedCNC Residences near Mayo and the ORI studio micro-apartments at Badger West near UW-La Crosse.
- La Crosse Housing Trends: Meeting the demand for one- and two-person households and shifting demographics in the region.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Electability in the Wisconsin governor's race has taken center stage as state Sen. Kelda Roys stopped in studio to discuss her bid to lead the state.
With the race reshaped, we talk to Roys about candidate electability and how Francesca Hong's "Democratic socialist" label plays into the strategy to win next month, and in November.
Roys also breaks down her proposal to end private school voucher funding and her priorities for lowering living costs and reforming classroom technology.
UW-La Crosse political scientist Dr. Anthony Chergosky was also in studio helping decode the high percentage of undecided voters and break down the race for Wisconsin's 3rd US House District.
We analyze how Republican incumbent Derek Van Orden is posturing against Democratic primary candidates Rebecca Cook and Emily Berge, including financial disclosure extensions and debate challenges.
Key Topics:
- The Democratic Primary: Sen. Kelda Roys on campaign finance, debate strategy, and navigating a shifting candidate field.
- Voucher School Reform: Inside Roys' plan to phase out tax-funded private school vouchers and re-invest in public education.
- Electability & Strategy: Dr. Anthony Chergosky breaks down how Francesca Hong's "Democratic socialist" label and outside ad spending impact primary voters vs. the general electorate.
- 3rd Congressional District: A look at financial disclosure extensions, debate challenges, and general election strategies involving Derek Van Orden, Rebecca Cook, and Emily Berge.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley in studio, following his dramatic re-entry into the Democratic primary for Wisconsin governor.
Crowley breaks down the whirlwind timeline of stepping back into the race, after Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez dropped out. That includes his post-late-night decision with his wife and how it came about getting the endorsement from Gov. Tony Evers — and if the governor used any of his key phrases during that phone call.
Crowley also addressed recent reporting regarding a decade-old shared Twitter handle, disavowing crude posts made under the account and emphasizing his record of public service.
We did reel the conversation in, turning to La Crosse’s $8 million budget shortfall for next year and a proposal to hire a city administrator. That discussion highlighted Wisconsin’s broken shared revenue system — noting how state lawmakers rushed to approve $500 million for the Milwaukee Brewers stadium, while local schools and municipalities face deficits — and examined how Crowley would address the funding gap.
We also got Crowley's clear thoughts on AI data centers — the giant one operational now and what regulations he wants to see for them in the future.
We began, though, with the recent police killing in Madison and potential reform policies.
Topics covered in this show:
- Re-Entering the Primary: The full story behind jumping back into the race, dealing with campaign chaos, and receiving Gov. Tony Evers' endorsement.
- The Twitter Controversy: Addressing the "Dirt McGirk" handle, explaining the shared account access, and condemning the offensive posts.
- Contrasting Against Tom Tiffany: Calling out "MAGA" Tom Tiffany’s 100% alignment with Donald Trump, reproductive rights, and setting up the general election matchup.
- Public Safety & Madison Shooting: Balancing initial reactions with official investigations, state funding for body cameras, and investing in community violence interrupters.
- Shared Revenue & Budget Surplus: Why local municipalities like La Crosse are struggling with budget shortfalls, and how the state surplus should ease local property taxes.
- Regulating Data Centers: Requiring tech companies to pay for 100% of their clean energy infrastructure and subsidizing ratepayer costs.
- Milwaukee Bucks Landscape: Local fallout after Giannis Antetokounmpo's departure and rebuilding around hometown star Tyler Herro.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ahead of his upcoming appearance at the Cappella Performing Arts Center with Ben Wikler, political commentator Todd Allbaugh stopped by The Rick Solem Show to break down an unprecedented stretch in Wisconsin politics.
Allbaugh will be in La Crosse with Ben Wiklker, the former chair of the Wisconsin Democratic Party, for an event Sunday (details below).
Allbaugh — a former Republican legislative chief of staff turned independent — gives his insider perspective on the rapid twists in the governor primary, how campaigns inoculate candidates before a general election, and why local voters in Western Wisconsin could shape the entire fall election.
IN THIS INTERVIEW:
- Unprecedented Democratic Primary Chaos: Allbaugh breaks down the historic nature of Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez’s sudden campaign exit, Milwaukee County Executive David Crowley re-entering the race after suspending his run, and how Madison Rep. Francesca Hong emerged as the frontrunner.
- The "Inoculation" Strategy of Tom Tiffany: Why Tiffany’s campaign spent months running warm, rural-focused TV ads across Wisconsin, and how it sets up his general election strategy.
- Voter Suppression & The SAVE Act: Drawing on his time inside the state Capitol during the 2011 voter ID debates, Allbaugh outlines how election law changes disproportionately impact voters and local clerks.
- Western Wisconsin 3rd District Battle: Why Republican strategists are keeping a close eye on the 3rd District primary between Rebecca Cook and Emily Berge following a dramatic local straw poll shift in La Crosse County.
IF YOU GO
- What: Ben Wikler book tour stop for This Is The Plan, hosted by Todd Allbaugh
- When: Sunday, July 26 | Doors open at 11:30 a.m. | Live conversation & Q&A at 12:30 p.m.
- Where: Cappella Performing Arts Center (721 King St., La Crosse)
- Details: Free admission (register here). Books available for purchase on-site through Pearl Street Books.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the La Crosse City Council prepares to vote once again on creating a city administrator position, Dr. Mike Ford joins to help break down what the role actually is, why cities have them, and whether La Crosse truly needs one.
Dr. Ford, a professor of public administration at UW-Oshkosh and Director of the Whitburn Center for Governance and Policy Research, is one of the state's leading experts on municipal governance. He offering clear insight into the practical mechanics of local government—explaining how administrators manage multi-million dollar budgets, navigate council dynamics, and why La Crosse remains an outlier among Wisconsin cities of its size.
With La Crosse facing a projected $8 million budget shortfall, rising healthcare costs, and major long-term decisions ahead, the conversation centers on what having a professional manager actually means for how the city runs on a day-to-day basis.
Key Points Covered in the Episode:
- Politics Decides, Administration Does: How the city administrator role originated during the Progressive Era to separate day-to-day operations from political bickering.
- Why La Crosse is in the Minority: Why more than 100 Wisconsin cities already rely on a professional manager or administrator to handle multi-million-dollar budgets.
- The Cost vs. Savings Debate: Can hiring a high-level administrator actually save the city money in the long run through operational efficiencies and long-term planning?
- Charter Ordinance vs. Simple Ordinance: The procedural differences, supermajority requirements, and how city residents hold the legal power to trigger a referendum on the decision.
- Tackling the $8 Million Deficit: How an independent administrator presents objective budget-cutting options to the city council without a political agenda.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ben Wikler went from The Daily Show stage with Jon Stewart straight to The Rick Solem Show the next day to help make sense of the wild week in Wisconsin politics.
The former chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin, who will be in La Crosse on Sunday, gives his take on the recent shakeup in the Democratic primary for governor — from Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez dropping out to David Crowley re-entering the race — and why Wikler argues this primary shuffle gives voters genuine options rather than a pre-packaged Republican ticket.
Wikler points out Tom Tiffany's extreme voting record in Congress, while detailing why the state party maintains strict primary neutrality and how a surging turnout will carry the eventual Democratic nominee.
The discussion centers on Wikler’s new book, This Is The Plan, which maps out how Democrats successfully unrigged Wisconsin's GOP gerrymander and offers a playbook for national political reform. That conversation will continue in La Crosse this Sunday at the Cappella Performing Arts Center, where he'll join political analyst Todd Allbaugh for a live Q&A and book signing.
*In this interview:*
- Governor's Race Shakeup: How Wikler—and his dog Ross—reacted to a wild week in state politics, plus why party bosses no longer handpick primary candidates for Democrats.
- Local Issues & 3rd District: Van Orden’s starring role as a character in This Is The Plan, and the strategy for beating Tom Tiffany in November.
- "Gotham City" Corruption: Campaign finance, Supreme Court ethics, and the playbook for fixing legalized corruption.
- Behind the Scenes at The Daily Show: What it was really like going back-and-forth with Jon Stewart (and competing with his rolling chair).
IF YOU GO
- What: Ben Wikler book tour stop for This Is The Plan: How To End America's Meltdown and Save Democracy
- When: 12:30 p.m. Sunday, July 26 (Doors open at 11:30 a.m.)
- Where: Cappella Performing Arts Center (map)
- Details: Free to attend, but registration is required online via Eventbrite. The conversation will feature Wikler joined by political analyst Todd Allbaugh, followed by an audience Q&A and book signing. Books will be available for purchase on-site through Pearl Street Books.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Just three proposed AI data centers in Wisconsin are projected to use more electricity than all 2.3 million homes in the state combined.
In fact, the one facility in Mount Pleasant alone will pull as much power as 1 million homes — becoming one of the largest “cities” of energy consumption in the state without a single person living there.
Amy Barrilleaux, communications director at Clean Wisconsin, joined the Rick Solem Show on Monday to help break down the massive, under-the-radar impact hyperscale AI data centers could have on Wisconsin’s energy grid, local water supplies and your monthly utility bills.
In this episode:
- The Energy Surge: Why the Public Service Commission (PSC) projects a 40% jump in state energy demand over six years — and why 72% of that increase comes from just three data centers.
- Your Pocketbook: How multi-billion-dollar utility buildouts for tech giants like Microsoft and Oracle could shift massive financial risks onto everyday Wisconsin ratepayers.
- Local Moratoriums: Why La Crosse County and municipalities state-wide are putting pauses in place to evaluate land use, grid strain, tax implications, local health impacts and more.
- Land & Water Impacts: The stark difference between temporary solar farm leases and permanent concrete slabs that erase family farmland forever — plus the off-site water drain from fossil fuel power generation.
- A Century of Infrastructure in 10 Years: Why rebuilding our entire energy system in a decade for a handful of tech companies requires a statewide pause and a real plan.
Take Action: Clean Wisconsin has launched a statewide petition calling for a pause on unchecked AI data center development until proper regulations are in place. You can learn more and sign the petition here.
Listen live weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Find the pod on Spotify, Apple Podcast or here. Tune in on the WIZM app or on air at 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A look at bicycles, safety, best places to ride, La Crosse’s infrastructure and what’s next for the city with Robbie Young and Andrew Ericson.
Robbie Young, owner of Coulee Bicycle Co. in Onalaska, and Andrew Ericson both serve on the city’s Bike-Pedestrian Committee. They stopped in the WIZM studio this past week for the Rick Solem Show to discuss two public comment “open house” coming up on the city’s Bike-Ped Master Plan.
Along with that, we discussed practical advice surrounding e-bikes, where to ride, effective bike locks and why you shouldn’t buy a helmet on Temu.
In this episode:
- The Master Plan Living Document: Why the city is introducing a few minor edits to the long-term network vision, including adding the forgotten Goose Green Trail footprint back onto the map.
- The U-Lock vs. “String” Dilemma: Why cheap cable locks are basically pieces of string to a thief with bolt cutters, and how to properly secure a frame and front wheel to a robust street rack.
- Navigating the Blue Bridges: The real rules of riding the sidewalk versus taking the road shoulder when commuting between Minnesota and downtown La Crosse.
- The King Street Greenway Idea: Rick shares a near-biff on a dark, pouring night—highlighting the absolute necessity of rechargeable front and rear bike lights around modern traffic calming circles.
- No Mini Bikes on the Cycle Track: The growing issue of kids riding high-powered, pedal-less electric motorcycles that bypass standard Class 1-3 definitions, presenting a tricky enforcement issue for local police and parents.
- The 3-Class E-Bike Breakdown: A quick explainer from Robbie on Class 1 (pedal-assist), Class 2 (throttle up to 20 mph), and Class 3 (pedal-assist up to 28 mph), and why Class 1 is the ideal choice for youth mobility.
Upcoming Events:
- Thursday, July 23 (2:30- 4:30 p.m.) — Myrick Park Bike Rodeo: Hosted alongside the county’s Safe Routes to School team, this free event is packed with skill-building activities, safety checks, and an introduction to traffic laws to help youth riders build independent skills.
- Tuesday, July 28 (Noon-1 p.m. & 5-6 p.m.) — Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan Amendment Open Houses: Held at the La Crosse Public Library Main Branch. Residents are invited to review updated maps and provide direct input on potential changes to the city’s connectivity network to help ensure robust implementation and flexibility moving forward.
Listen live weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Find the pod on Spotify, Apple Podcast or here. Tune in on the WIZM app or on air at 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With Sara Rodriguez abruptly suspending her campaign for Wisconsin governor, does that make self-described Democratic Socialist Francesca Hong the leading candidate?
The Democratic primary for Wisconsin governor was completely upended, and UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, joins the Rick Solem Show to help break down the fallout.
Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez is out of the race, a candidate who dropped out announced online mid-show he’s coming back and retiring Gov. Tony Evers might endorse now, of all times.
We also talk about Rodriguez’s reasoning politically and actually for dropping out — all dealing with campaign money in one way or another — and how the other candidates look financially.
Other things we discussed:
- The “Scott Walker Loophole:” How Tiffany is sitting back flush with millions in cash from just a couple mega-donors while the Democrats are in total disarray.
- Pour One Out for the Marquette Poll: Why polling director Dr. Charles Franklin apparently halted phone calls mid-survey because the race changed overnight.
- The New York vs. Wisconsin Reality: Why the “Median Voter Theory” means what works for progressives in big cities faces a completely different hurdle in a statewide purple race.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board president Trevor Sprague in the WIZM studio for the Rick Solem Show on Thursday, discussing what comes next with the old Trane headquarters that was recently donated to the district.
The 41.5-acre, 210,000-square-foot building on the south side was once the centerpiece of the school district’s failed $194-million plan to combine Logan and Central high schools.
Sprague puts the high school consolidation notion to bed fairly quickly, before getting into immediate and future uses of the property.
Sprague also addresses the argument regarding the property coming off the tax rolls instead of being developed into something like affordable housing. Additionally, he shares the story of how the Blank family initiated the massive donation, and explains how the district plans to protect and honor a Ho-Chunk heritage site located on the northeast corner of the property.
While a permanent, long-term plan for the massive facility could take up to five years of community feedback to finalize, Sprague outlines some of the immediate, low-cost uses the district is eyeing — including soccer fields, warehousing, and professional development spaces.
Also on the show, Sprague talked about a couple of groups that are meeting to discuss school matters (unofficial names):
- Countywide School Board Collaboration (unofficial title): Board presidents and vice presidents from districts like Holmen, Onalaska, and West Salem are teaming up to lobby the county to put voucher school dollars directly on local tax bills for transparency, following the lead of Eau Claire and Green Bay.
- The Tech Advisory Committee (TAC): A diverse group of teachers, parents, and experts discussing how to balance screen time in classrooms, including the potential for “no-tech” days, and how the district currently handles cell phone policies.
- Indoor Aquatics Center committee (unofficial title): Sprague explains why the school board is hitting pause on a proposed indoor aquatics facility after lukewarm community survey support, and why they are looking for partners.
Listen live weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Find the pod on Spotify, Apple Podcast or here. Tune in on the WIZM app or on air at 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin governor candidate Joel Brennan joins to discuss the fallout from opponent Sara Rodriguez firing her campaign manager over massive campaign finance discrepancies, his take on AI data centers, and his firsthand role in renegotiating the Foxconn deal.
Over the weekend, Lt. Gov. Rodriguez — one of five Democrats in the governor primary — announced she let her manager go over hundreds of thousands of dollars in mismanaged funds.
Brennan reacts to the news, explaining why he views it as a failure of "competence 101." He details how his own campaign handles its books to ensure accountability before Wednesday's filing deadline, and discusses the political impact on the primary now that a "coronation" has been disrupted.
Later, we dive into Brennan's role as Department of Administration Secretary in helping renegotiate the failed $2.85 billion Foxconn contract under Tony Evers. A deal originally put in place by former Republican Gov. Scott Walker and touted as the "Eighth Wonder of the World" by President Donald Trump during his first term.
Lastly, we tackle the wild west of AI data centers in Wisconsin.
With La Crosse County and its 18 municipalities fending for themselves to pass local moratoriums, Brennan reacts to the state legislature "hanging local government out to dry" on regulation.
He breaks down his four-part plan to establish guardrails — including utilizing union labor, implementing strict green standards, banning non-disclosure agreements (NDAs) that keep locals in the dark, and ensuring residential ratepayers aren't stuck subsidizing massive corporate energy bills.
Plus, he explains why he supports a targeted, 90-day statewide pause on approvals to write these rules into law, rather than an arbitrary, year-long ban. Though all that would have to wait until after the November election, since the GOP-controlled state Legislature hasn't been in session since April and won't resume work until January of 2027.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We rank the Top 10 most important La Crosse city committees, discuss what happens next with another city administrator vote and recap last week’s monthly city council meeting with Mac Kiel.
First up, we tackled city administrator, which is back on the agenda for August.
We announce that we’ll be working with the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce on the show, over the next four weeks, to discuss all things city administrator ahead of the vote. The chamber has endorsed the idea of La Crosse having a city administrator.
This was last on the agenda in February and we discuss how it didn’t pass a super majority and that nothing has really been done by the city or the council since — despite a lot of conversations to do so.
After that, we highlight key moments from last week’s city council meeting, including:
- Using $1.8 million in TID 14 money for affordable housing in a way that has no time restrictions
- Creating two other TID districts
- Zoning approval for the Bridgeview housing complex
Regarding the Bridgeview housing, we discuss how this zoning shift isn’t an approval of the final build plan, and why the discussion hovered around the vast amount of parking developers have allotted.
We also relate that to the Cowboy Jack’s restaurant proposal going through council in the Riverpoint District — and just how much riverfront parking is planned there.
Lastly, Kiel ranks the Top 10 city committees — in which there are over 50 in total.
Before legislation ever hits the full council, it gets hashed out in committees where the public can learn and provide input. Not only do we go through the rankings, but we also discuss how some of the most powerful committees — like the Board of Public Works or the Library Board — don’t require council approval to act.
We started the show, though hitting on some things that happened over the past week, including
- The school district receiving the old Trane headquarters building as a donation
- David Crowley leaving leaving the Wisconsin governor’s race and Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez’s campaign manager being fired
- Lindsey Graham — not Mitch McConnell — passing away
Kiel is a former La Crosse City Council member, who is an advocate for providing the public with what is happening with city government. She also serves on some city boards and works with the unsheltered population.
Listen live weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Find the pod on Spotify, Apple Podcast or here. Tune in on the WIZM app or on air at 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse City Council Representative Aron Newberry joined the show in studio to discuss the city's projected $8 million budget shortfall, the recent 18-month moratorium on AI data centers, and how La Crosse's public pools and libraries compare to other municipalities across Wisconsin.
- The $8 Million Budget Gap: The budget conversation came just a few days after a Budget Parameter Committee meeting that consisted of Finance and Personnel members, along with Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey.
- Pools vs. Libraries: We broke down a recent post by Newberry comparing La Crosse’s current infrastructure—two public pools and one public library—against similar-sized cities across Wisconsin.
- AI Data Center Moratoriums: We also discussed what needs to be done about data centers, just a few weeks after La Crosse County passed both a study committee and an 18-month moratorium on the structures. While the county passed a resolution, it isn’t sweeping. Other counties are currently trying to pass their own bans or considering allowing them to be built. Newberry is urging residents to support a petition for legislators to pass a statewide moratorium and utility rate cap.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Administrator Jane Klekamp in studio helping decide how much money it would take to get a radio show host to move here and become part of the tax base.
Klekamp said it's something the county has looked into in the past — and is currently underway in Fond du Lac — as we discussed Wisconsin’s declining population and ways to get people to move here.
We also dove into the possibility of universal childcare as the county waits on the state to approve its intergenerational daycare plan, and the recent passing of an 18-month data center moratorium — along with the new data center study committee.
One other topic, we broke down is the critical work the county and city are doing on the homeless situation, highlighting the Homes for 100 plan that launched last month as part of La Crosse's Pathways Home plan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse’s household survival budget. The bare minimum it takes for a person, a family, to get by.
It’s called the ALICE report. It was just released by the Great Rivers United Way and executive director Mary Kay Wolf stopped in the WIZM studio for the Rick Solem Show to discuss it.
ALICE stands for (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). It comes out every two years and looks at households that earn more than the Federal Poverty Level, but less than the basic cost of living for the county.
Wolf talks about the report, where La Crosse stands and how we can improve our situation — whether that’s through talking with elected representatives, helping groups in the area that work in these fields or donating.
Listen live weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Find the pod on Spotify, Apple Podcast or here. Tune in on the WIZM app or on air at 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How much would it take for you to move to Fond du Lac?
That's one of the many topics discussed with Adam Murphy on Friday's The Rick Solem Show. Murphy is a small business owner, economist and — as we learn — handyman.
Before we get into moving to Fond du Lac and the political landscape of Wisconsin's governor's race — and whether they should just run on an anti-AI data center platform — we talk about Murphy remodeling his cottage and how that lost handyman art needs to be passed down to the next generation.
That segwayed nicely to Fond du Lac County trying to pay people to move there.
Murphy basically said there's not enough money in the world, but he did point out the dilemma for the area and the state in general with an aging and declining population, cities need more residents to stay alive.
But is Fond du Lac County's incentive package worth it?
We also looked at the governor's race, why Mandela Barnes gets unfair flak for his past Senate run, and what a lieutenant governor actually does all day.
Finally, we dig into the infrastructure drain of AI data centers and how it should be used in campaigns. Murphy uses his IT background to explain why these massive hubs redline the power grid while providing almost zero long-term local jobs, leading into a debate on why universal childcare is a much smarter economic investment for the state's aging population.
Murphy is the owner of a small business in Milwaukee called Big Bang LLC, he also ran for US Senate for the Democrats in Wisconsin, and holds degrees in economics and political science from UW-Milwaukee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brad Pitel in studio helping us preview the four-day July 4 celebration at Riverside Park.
Riverfest kicks off Thursday afternoon and ends with a firework show on the 4th of July.
Pitel, who is on the Riverfest board, talks about the wide array of acts from national country star Mitchell Tenpenny to the RCCW pro wrestling events, where they bring a ring to Riverside.
Pitel also talks about how Misty Lown's reign the Riverfest Commodore. Lown, owner of Misty's Dance Unlimited in Onalaska, is the first woman Commodore ever since Riverfest began in 1983.
Check out the full schedule for each day of Riverfest here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Why are we so obsessed with algae in a D.C. wading pool, or a U.S. Senate candidate’s scandals in Maine of all places over what’s happening in our own backyard?
As we fixate on national sideshows like those, UW-Madison professor Dr. Mike Wagner joins to decipher why our focus shifts away from critical local decisions — like an upcoming La Crosse city budget public hearing. Wagner talks about how our media consumption is so backwards and why local news is the a place people can trust to keep us grounded.
We look at the strategic “flood the zone” tactics used by Donald Trump, and similarities between the president’s defenders and those backing Maine Senate candidate Graham Platner — how there’s an excuse to every scandal.
We also dive into how social media algorithms manipulate our feeds, and why bad news is always what gets the clicks. Lastly, Wagner breaks down why shows like this one — that intentionally focus on local stories, leaders and decisions shaping the La Crosse area — are exactly what’s needed to fight back against that national cycle.
About the guest:
- Dr. Michael W. Wagner is the William T. Evjue Distinguished Chair for the Wisconsin Idea and Professor of Journalism and Mass Communication at UW-Madison.
- He serves as the Director of the Center for Communication and Civic Renewal (CCCR).
- He holds a Ph.D. in Political Science from Indiana University and is a past winner of the Chancellor’s Distinguished Teaching Award.
Before entering academia, he spent years behind the mic working as an AM radio news reporter and anchor
Listen live weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Find the pod on Spotify, Apple Podcast or here. Tune in on the WIZM app or on air at 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you've spent any time in local coffee shops or boutiques, you know that naming your business after "The Driftless" carries a certain amount of outdoorsy eco-prestige.
But, according to UW-Madison geologist Dr. Eric Carson, if that business is across the river in Minnesota or Iowa — they are living a lie.
For the past 18 years, Dr. Carson has been mapping The Driftless. He joins ahead of his Badger Talk at 5:30 p.m. Thursday at the Sparta Free Library to tell us just exactly what that means and why it's taken two decades.
Carson talks about going county-by-county — a job we assume involves a leather notebook, a magnifying glass, and a horse with no name.
Carson humors us on the tech front (turns out they use airplanes with lasers called LiDAR and drill 100-foot soil cores instead), but he breaks down the mind-blowing reality of our backyard — why the ice sheets missed us, why Lake Superior is actually a giant billion-year-old tear in the earth, and how a local river used to flow east, toward Canada, instead of west into the Mississippi River.
Plus, we look at why the U.S. is facing a massive shortage of rock-nerds and why geology is actually a high-security, high-demand career.
Check out the preview, and bring your questions for Carson Thursday at the Sparta Library.
Any school, group or organization that would like to host a Badger Talk, either in person or online, email here or request a speaker online at badgertalks.wisc.edu.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The city of La Crosse has a lot going on right now — from transforming the now-closed library and tearing down the Kmart, to rezoning for housing by the old Shopko at Bridgeview Plaza and establishing new TIDs on the causeway and by Black River Beach.
To help explain all that, Mac Kiel joins, as we break down the process for what comes next with the old north library and recap her mayor district forum from Monday night — a district that contains both the old Kmart and new elementary school.
To help explain all of it, Mac Kiel stops in studio, as we break down the process for what comes next with the old north side library and recap the mayor district forum from Monday night — a district that contains both the old Kmart and the new elementary school.
Kiel, who is on the Library Board, also walks us through the choices they had that led to the north side library closing.
The building has now gone through the RFEI (Request for Expression of Interest) process, and we talk about the formal and informal proposals that were reported by WIZM on Monday.
Plus, Kiel explains the next steps — the RFP (Request for Proposal) process — which happen Wednesday at the Economic and Community Development Commission (ECDC).
We walk through some of the six-page document on the ECDC agenda that lays out what the city might want from those submitting RFPs.
Before we got to that, though, Kiel went to the mayor’s District 7 forum, which was also led by city council member Gary Padesky. She talked about what the 30 or so attendees brought up, including the old Kmart coming down— possibly this summer — and the new elementary school going up.
Lastly, we ended with next week’s Finance and Personnel Committee meeting discussing TIDs (Tax Incremental Districts) — one in the Gundersen area, plus others in the Black River Beach area and on the pike headed to La Crescent.
Kiel does her best — again — to help explain a TID.
We began the show, though, sulking over Giannis Antetokounmpo getting traded.
Kiel is a former La Crosse City Council member, who is an advocate for providing the public with what is happening with city government. She also serves on some city boards and works with the unsheltered population.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce CEO Sam Scinta on his “Lord of the Rings”-length meeting with the mayor, the business climate in the community right now, and that port initiative announced last week.
We began though with just a quick “What does the Chamber do?” as Scinta has been leading it now for the past nine months.
Next, we talked about — what is more of a long game — the new Northern Grain Belts Ports Initiative and what it means for leveraging local waterways.
After that, we spent the final half of the show deep diving into La Crosse Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey’s three-hour meeting with Chamber members last week.
We break down what the meeting entailed and the "homework" to come out of it — like the push for a city administrator, a business concierge, zoning changes, and historic preservation reform.
We wrap up looking at how La Crosse is faring right now when it comes to the overall business climate, why our unique transit hub gives us a leg up on Madison, and the Chamber's possible future plans for a quarterly "La Crosse is Open for Business" series.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Democratic Party chair Wyatt Molling was in studio last week for the Rick Solem Show discussing the friction between the state and local party over reaching rural voters. We recapped the state convention and why everyday voters don't look like convention diehards, plus the split over Gov. Tony Evers' budget surplus deal. And, we closed with some rapid-fire over everything from data centers to Trump and the World Cup.
We start though talking about Molling getting into politics and taking over role as chair in January.
After, we dive into the three Assembly seats defining La Crosse County, looking closely at the different rural landscapes facing Steve Doyle, Jill Billings and Tara Johnson. Molling airs some frustration with the state party on reaching voters in these districts that have all been redrawn.
From there, we discuss the state Democratic convention. Molling is asked about the WisPolitics governor's race straw poll that had heads turning. He explains the mindset of convention-goers versus regular voters in regards to the poll and we get into the resolutions the party comes up with at the convention.
We also hit the optics surrounding Evers’ multi-billion-dollar budget surplus package and why local Democrats split on the final vote.
To wrap up, we put Molling through a lightning-round of national and local headlines, including data center moratoriums — which the La Crosse County Board has passed — as well as the controversial $300 billion Iran memorandum, gas prices and why Donald Trump hoisting the FIFA World Cup trophy could get incredibly awkward.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio to help weave a discussion about the La Crosse pool poll, the Democratic convention governor straw poll and the Packers fighting with one Wisconsin US House member.
We did start the show, though, talking quick about not being a sports fan but being excited about something like the World Cup — plus the Loggers having Catbirds throwback night.
The poll conversation stems partly from the results from a survey of La Crosse residents about building a new indoor aquatics center, where about 52 percent were in favor — with 14% of those asked responding. Another aspect came from a straw poll last weekend at the Wisconsin Democratic Party convention that had Mandela Barnes sixth out of seven governor candidates.
We break down how these polls could be written and conducted — perhaps to gain favorability for a specific outcome — and how much stock we should take in the results. We also discuss how some polls — like the pool survey — might be sent out partly to inform people a thing is happening that they didn’t know about — and therefore the wording of those questions comes back into play. We also look at how Wisconsin Republicans put Constitutional Amendments on the ballot that are often seen as confusing and steering the voting population into getting the results the GOP wants.
Lastly, we talked about the Packers pushing back against how US House Rep. Scott Fitzgerald (R-Clyman) is looking into the Sports Broadcasting Act of 1961, and this idea that TV deals have isolated Packers fans who need to subscribe to networks to watch certain games.
Or — throwing this conspiracy at Chergosky — is this a deep political ploy to prop up fellow GOP US House Reps. Derrick Van Orden (R-Prairie du Chien) and Bryan Steil (R-Janesville), who have sided with the Packers saying what Fitzgerald is doing would hurt the team.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio discussing A.I. data centers, the budget surplus deal and — with Alabama and Megadeath coming to La Crosse — ticket prices and third-party sellers.
Pfaff also came in hyped that June is dairy month and will be hosting a dairy breakfast from 6-11 a.m. at Creamery Creek Farms in Bangor.
When it comes to legislation, though, the state did nothing the last two years with data centers, as multiple counties in Pfaff’s district debate moratoriums and study committees to address the issue. Democrats and Republicans had data center proposals, but neither passed the Legislature, which has now been out of session since March.
Pfaff also talked about voting against the budget surplus deal that was negotiated in private between Gov. Tony Evers and Republican legislators, Robin Vos and Devin LeMahieu. The deal included no tax on tips/overtime, $300 checks and one year of special education funding and property tax relief. It was introduced to the public Monday and the Legislature voted on it two days later. After that, the Legislative Fiscal Bureau came out with a report that the deal would have put Wisconsin in a structural budget deficit.
Before the data center conversation, we did talk about the Tank Creek Bridge that an arsonist burned down last year — part of the Great River Trail in La Crosse County.
We had some fun to begin the show, first asking what Pfaff was doing the last time Alabama came to the La Crosse Center in 1984. He revealed his first-ever concert was at the La Crosse Center but a year later — Huey Lewis and the News.
With Alabama in town Sept. 10 — tickets just went on sale — and Megadeth at the Oktobefest Grounds on July 31, Pfaff also discussed whether the state needs to look into third-party ticket sellers and if there needs to be some laws created to protect concert goers. Viterbo University brought this issue up in the past, where these third-parties rip people off on ticket prices.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The logrolling champion of the world, seven years running, La Crosse’s own Livi Pappadopoulos, in studio to hype up Saturday’s La Crosse Open and give us the inside scoop on how she dominates the sport.
Pappadopoulos owns Coulee Region Logrolling, and it’s hosting the 25th annual La Crosse Open, beginning at 10 a.m. at the Pettibone Lagoon.
She tells us what to expect during the event, who might give her fits on the water, and some insider tips on what she sees on the log to get her opponent to fall.
Pappadopoulos also talks about Coulee Region Logrolling and invites anybody to get involved here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What happens next now that the north side library is officially closed?
La Crosse Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey in studio Monday to break down the city's next steps, explaining the upcoming request for proposals (RFP) process and addressing the transparency questions surrounding the three groups that have already expressed interest in the building.
Before that, though, we discussed the narrative that the city is “on (the) attack” against the North Side regarding the pool and library closures — with the Northside Neighborhood Center expressing its frustration on the library sale. We then shifted to why the city council stripped Emerson Elementary School of its historic designation.
We ended the show, circling back to what the mayor would like to see get done, which included bringing a public market to La Crosse — and what that would look like for him.
The hour also highlighted Washington-Spivey's excitement for celebrating Juneteenth on Saturday in Riverside Park.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For the first time as the La Crosse School Board president, Trevor Sprague joins, and we take a look at the developments for a $33 million indoor aquatics center, technology in schools and the continuing plans of the district consolidation process.
With the pool, we talk about the city and the district creating a committee to come up with a plan, the survey that received about 3,500 responses and the five public meetings that drew a total of about 86 attendees.
Sprague also discusses how the board navigates declining enrollment, the lessons learned from past facility referendums and what state funding challenges mean for local taxpayers.
Also, with a new state law requiring a cellphone policy to be implemented by every school district this summer, we see where La Crosse is at, plus how screen time affects students' cognitive development and whether it’s time to ban smartphones entirely during the school day.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We discuss the culture and politics of gambling and drinking in La Crosse with UW-L political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, and WIZM’s Brad Williams, and then feature another woman-owned business "for no reason whatsoever" Friday on the Rick Solem Show.
The "sin taxes and vices" conversation went in a bunch of different directions, including a look back at when La Crosse residents voted twice by referendum, in 1995 and 2000, on whether to allow a casino in the city—and discussing if that would pass today.
Another reason for the conversation stems from the La Crosse City Council recently denying liquor license renewals for two local establishments, plus whether Wisconsin’s sports gambling legalization gets fully implemented before Gov. Tony Evers leaves office.
After that, Chergosky breaks down the politics of the Wisconsin governor’s race. Now that there are seven Democrats and two Republicans on the ballot, less popular candidates face a dilemma: do they try to go viral to make a name for themselves — does that have to be negative — or is the responsible thing to do "for the party" to drop out?
Lastly, we talked to another women-owned business in the area “for no reason whatsoever," and we've compiled a list of over 500 in the area here.
Our seventh business featured is Scrappin’ on the Ranch, in Pickwick, Minn. — tucked in the bluffs between La Crosse and Winona. Jolene Danca joins to tell us about her bed and breakfast and beyond, that was created for scrapbookers to get away for a weekend — and she has everything there a scrapbooker would need — but has evolved to host everything from bachelorette and graduation parties to weddings and business retreats.
Check out Scrappin’ on the Ranch here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We look at farming issues in Wisconsin, a week after President Donald Trump visited a Chippewa Falls farm last week and, after that, we continue what could be a series, “Hyping women-owned businesses for no reason whatsoever.”
But first, Brian Reisinger, joined to talk about fuel and fertilizer prices because of the Iran war and ways to better help the small farms — whether that’s the government or consumers. Reisinger, who grew up on a farm his family still owns and now writes and talks about these issues, is the author of Land Rich, Cash Poor: My Family’s Hope and the Untold History of the Disappearing American Farm.
After that, Carly Green-Easterday took some time out of her day to hype up her Groovy coffee businesses “for no reason whatsoever.”
Perhaps this will be a continuing series, after opening with five businesses Wednesday for no reason whatsoever. Abe's Raves is compiling a list of women-owned businesses and it is HUGE.
Here are Carly's three Groovy businesses:
- Groovy Grind Coffee Co. (Galesville)
- Groovy Sips (Onalaska)
- Groovy Grounds (La Crescent)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Every election, politicians around Wisconsin gather signatures to get on the ballot. This can be an incredibly stressful time for politicians and the results give us interesting clues about the elections to come. From independent candidates to signature challenges in court to hints about what seats will be competitive in November, there is a lot to learn from the end results, if we just bother to look. And that's what we do here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hyping up women-owned businesses for no reason whatsoever Wednesday on the Rick Solem Show.
We were joined in studio by Abram Dyke of Abe’s Raves. Our local foodie helped track down a bunch of awesome local businesses that we got on the show, including:
- Sam Sveum, who owns Nom Sips & Eats
- Mia Davis of the Mia’s Kitchen food truck
- Maria Norberg, owner of Grounded Coffee
- Ka Lia Vang of Ka Lia’s Kitchen
- Megan Larson owner of Vintage Kitchen
We opened the show talking a bit about Abe’s Raves — some of the fun stuff he’s doing on that page and how we need to do the area’s best coffee next.
Also, before he had to leave, we ended the show mentioning that Dyke won a huge award for his work as a nurse recently.
Now, we weren’t able to, of course, get all the women-owned food and coffee joints in the area on. So, feel free to go to this post on Facebook and add your favorites to the comments.
Listen live weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Find the pod on Spotify, Apple Podcast or here. Tune in on the WIZM app or on air at 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An 18-month data center ban in La Crosse is on the docket for the county board.
The moratorium legislation comes as a county study committee has its first meeting Wednesday.
Dillon Mader and Lia Manock stopped in studio to break down their reasonings for a moratorium, discuss the work the study committee will be doing, and why they feel a ban on data centers is necessary.
While there are multiple angles to consider when pausing data center development, Mader and Manock explain why they based their resolution's thresholds on energy usage (two megawatts) and storage (one petabyte).
They also discussed why an 18-month moratorium is necessary to give the study committee a full year to conduct its work, report back and possibly craft other legislation.
Manock is one of five county board members on the study committee, which also includes a representative from each of the 18 municipalities in La Crosse County.
The county board's executive committee will take up the moratorium resolution at 8 a.m. Thursday, before a full vote next week (agenda here).
We began the show on how this Thursday meeting is the only change the public has to address the issue during a board meeting. Otherwise, it will depend on contacting your county board rep or emailing the entire board here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bringing down La Crosse’s Kmart, what ever happened to the green bubbler talk from last year and the potential selling of the north side library.
Those were some of the big topics we discussed with city council president Tamra Dickinson ahead of their monthly Thursday meeting.
We started with the north library, which is scheduled to close for good June 15. Dickinson walks us through the process of declaring it a surplus property and how they get proposals from different groups about what they’d want to do with the building.
After that, we hit on the Kmart proposal from Three-Sixty Real Estate Solutions. The council could approve Phase 1 of Three-Sixty’s plans Thursday, which might mean the Kmart comes down yet this year.
Dickinson is the chair of the Aviation Board, and we spent some time discussing the turnaround the airport has seen over the past year, adding flights, and what could happen next over there.
Lastly, those green bubblers. It was all the talk last summer, but that attention has significantly died down. Dickinson, though, says there are plans in motion.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John Havlicek stopped in studio just days after saying adiós to the teaching profession after 31 years — 28 of those at Central High School.
So, of course, we had to tell a couple of retirement stories, but also got into some of the politics surrounding education and beyond with Havlicek, who is a political activist.
Beyond education, we also discussed what he’d like to see as priorities in those running for statewide office — like governor and the Legislature.
That included a public option for healthcare, the ability for anyone to participate in the state run pension retirement plan and his idea of government working for the bottom 80%.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle in studio discussing whether the state might get that $2 billion in budget surplus back to taxpayers before the election. We also discussed a data center moratorium, his opponent in November, one governor candidate being $30,000 in credit card debt and an update on rebuilding the Tank Creek Bridge.
Earlier in the day, a news release went out from Keith Purnell, who will be Doyle’s Republican opponent in the 94th Assembly District. We got Doyle’s early take on Purnell and whether there might be a debate.
In regards to the Tank Creek Bridget that sits along the Great River State Trail, and was burned by an arsonist last year, Doyle discussed when construction might happen and a potential grant coming from the federal government to cover what might be a couple million in cost.
Two stories about the governor’s race involved Francesca Hong over the past few days. One, that Capital One is suing her for $30,000 in credit card debt, presumably from her restaurant going out of business during COVID. The other was from a Democratic governor candidate forum where Hong was the only member to support a one-year moratorium on data centers.
Doyle also updated us on the La Crosse County Board creating a data center committee, which he will be a part of, and whether he’s heard from anyone that’s pro data center. Lastly, sticking with that topic, we talked quickly about recent comments from the Dairyland Power CEO saying data centers are a “path to prosperity” in small communities.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We honed in on a couple of President Donald Trump's pet projects and rehashed the state's failed budget surplus deal with Citizen Action of Wisconsin's Robert Kraig.
It's hard to pick any one thing when it comes to the Trump administration, but we narrowed it down to these things:
- Trump's $1.778 billion (what we call) "slush fund"
- The $1 billion in taxpayer dollars for a ballroom
- The MMA fight on the White House lawn
- The Iran war and prices
The second half of the show consisted of the failed deal between Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers and the top two Republicans in the Legislature to spend the state's $2 billion budget surplus, and all the factors that have come since. That includes the flaws in a Marquette Law School poll showing 80% agreeing with the deal, the analysis since showing it would have put the state in a budget deficit and how Republican Robin Vos wants Evers to call another special session to get it done.
Roughly, the deal consisted of one year of special education funding and property tax relief, plus $300 checks and no taxes on tips/overtime.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Will Kmart come down, an indoor pool go up and what’s the north side library worth?
Those are a few things we talked about with Mac Kiel in studio, helping preview committee week in La Crosse.
The Copper Rocks project is again going before committees. That’s the plan to tear down the old Kmart and create both a business and residential area on that lot. Will Kmart come down this summer?
We also discuss selling the north side library process, where committees are looking at making the building a “surplus property” and accepting “RFPs” (requests for proposal).
In between all that, we looked at the city survey for building a $33 million indoor aquatics center through referendum.
WIZM’s Brad Williams also joined to give us an update on the City Plan Commission, which had met just before the show.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
No Fazoli’s, no drink refill station at McDonald’s, is ranch dressing and cheese curds a Wisconsin thing — just some of the things we utilized UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky for on the Rick Solem Show on Friday.
We did also talk some politics with some new revelations about the $1.8 billion budget surplus deal falling through. Chergosky called it “Democrat Drama,” with the governor being reassured by Republicans that they had the votes for it to pass.
That deal, — passed overwhelmingly by the Assembly — was voted down by the all the Democrats in the state Senate, plus three Republicans, would was for no tax on tips/overtime, $300 rebate checks, lower property taxes for a year, and school funding.
That deal — passed overwhelmingly in the Assembly — was voted down in the state Senate by all 15 Democrats plus three Republicans. The package would have eliminated tax on tips/overtime, provided $300 rebate checks, lowered property taxes for a year, and increased school funding for a year.
The conversation focused on the odd timing of the bill, Republicans (who control the Legislature) not having the votes, and whether it could be brought back — since legislators decided they were done legislating for the year back in April.
In terms of the non-political conversation, we brought up the Fazoli's in Onalaska announcing it was closing for good last Wednesday, and we proposed what should replace it. We also went down a rabbit hole with McDonald's ending its drink refill stations for customers. That led to how people don't really go into McDonald's much anymore — except for Chergosky, who revealed his young daughter very much likes ranch dressing. Is that a Wisconsin thing?
We also discussed Google changing its search engine to basically provide AI answers, killing the SEO industry designed to get your website at the top of the page.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A discussion about Flock cameras, the role he played in shutting down the Ridgland Farms beagle breeding facility and La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke's thoughts after his office put away Josie Dikeman for the death of a 6-year-old.
Those were the topics we covered Wednesday on the Rick Solem Show with Gruenke, who we learned has a beagle himself.
But we started with the scope of the Dikeman trial in La Crosse County, after she was convicted in the death of a 6-year-old in her care.
After that, we discussed Gruenke's role as a special prosecutor against that beagle breeding and testing facility. Why he was given the job, after the Dane County DA refused to charge Ridgland Farms. And how it all led to 1,500 of the 2,000 beagles there being freed.
Lastly, we talked Flock cameras, what they are, how they help and the issues people have with them. One of those was abuse of that info, where Gruenke talks about how governments and private businesses have a lot of our information, and how that needs to be protected.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Assembly Rep. Jill Billings could have made some big money betting on the prediction markets over the $1.8 billion budget surplus deal that fell through last week.
Now, though, that's illegal, after a Gov. Tony Evers executive order banning state employees and their families from making those types of bets.
We get into all of it with Billings (D-La Crosse) — specifically how the deal to lower property taxes, send money to schools, give out $300 rebate checks and end taxes on tips and overtime fell through. Billings talks about her process for supporting the deal, but also the specific trade-offs she wasn't happy with.
Plus, Billings tells the story about a legislator's joke that hinted to her the deal was not going to pass the state Senate — getting back to how she could have made a big bet on the deal.
We also discussed how the Legislature had just three days to vote on this $1.8 billion package, and compared that to the $500 million Milwaukee Brewers stadium funding deal that was hashed out in public for over a month.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The two Democratic candidates competing to face Republican incumbent Derrick Van Orden this fall brought their campaigns to La Crosse on Tuesday night.
Emily Berge and Rebecca Cooke answered 22 questions during a fast-paced forum that lasted about an hour and a half.
The event, driven by questions submitted by Democrats across Wisconsin’s 3rd Congressional District, covered a wide array of topics, ranging from protecting clean water and immigration to funding for Medicaid and SNAP.
Among the issues raised was the current state of the U.S. Supreme Court, specifically addressing its partisan divide and how justices are appointed.
Emily Berge suggested implementing 18-year term limits for the high court, followed by a system where new justices are selected every two years.
"President Trump, he's appointed three justices to the court and I think Biden did, he appointed one,” Berge told the audience at the Concordia Ballroom. “And so every two years would allow a more — though there's probably still be some holes — but it would allow more regular appointments and more fairness and equality that way."
Cooke agreed with the call for term limits but focused her response on tightening the ethical guidelines for the bench.
"Creating a code of ethics for justices,” Cooke said. “II think you've seen an incredible culture of corruption on the Supreme Court. The way that folks have been lining their pockets with special interest dollars from all sorts of people to be influenced to the way that they're voting — or that they're ruling on cases."
The candidates were also asked about what Congress can do to help with affordable housing and support homeowners in Wisconsin.
Cooke emphasized leveraging federal grants to spark new construction.
"Things that I can be supportive of in Congress,” Cooke said, “is that I can advocate for more federal community black grants, which incentivize developers to build affordable housing, making it, again, more affordable for them to build,so that we can get working families there."
Berge talked about the benefits of accessory dwelling units (ADUs), but also stressed maximizing existing federal channels.
"But we do need funds, so we can do that though through HUD, through CDBG funding, which is Community Development Block Grant,” Berge said. “And right now, what the city of Eau Claire does, is that hands out to a lot of nonprofits, but we can do it for — if we had more. We have almost $1 million through CDBG funding — but if we had more funds, we could spread out that, uh, to for more solutions."
While the primary for this race is scheduled for August, voters will have a few more opportunities to hear the candidates debate. Before the August vote, the pair will square off in two more forums — one in Platteville on June 18, followed by an Eau Claire forum July 16.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US House candidate Emily Berge in studio, discussing the issues she’s hearing from the people around Wisconsin’s 3rd District — healthcare, money in politics, the price of gas, and healthcare (again).
We started the show, though, discussing party “infighting” — this trigger word political parties use to call out the other side, and how maybe this “infighting” isn’t such a terrible thing vs. an entire party being unified on everything.
After that, we talked about how, traveling the district, Berge hears complaints about healthcare and money in politics a lot.
Berge talks about her ideas on how to resolve those issues, like Medicare-for-All and ending Citizens United, plus having representatives that are ready to fight for those ideals. Berge also talks about the money in her race and how she was asked not to run.
Lastly, we discussed gas prices and the war, where Berge talks about the need to focus and prioritize on issues back home vs. things like a war with Iran.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A day after a conversation about creating a county committee on data centers, UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined and toyed with the idea of also having a committee for bringing Costco to the area.
It's a matter that was discussed years ago, when River Point District, downtown, had interest from Costco, and was rehashed this week with the La Crosse County Board chair, as well as Jason Spangler's As I See It.
Aside from that, however, Chergosky helped break down the gerrymandering wars that could come to Wisconsin. But, also, does the general public know what gerrymandering means? We asked Chergosky if this term is familiar with his new students at UW-L.
That actually led to a whole other discussion about student knowledge, cheating with A.I., how students take notes (notebook, or computer?) and the benefits of teaching cursive in grade school — plus can people even read my cursive.
After that, more state politics, including back to being pro rigging the voting maps as a way to win the Wisconsin governor election, plus how a $2.5 billion deal between three retiring politicians failed, and what it says about looking ahead to the makeup of state government next year.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He might feel the rumble of nearly 200 motorcycles ride by his house Saturday, as Big Bikes for Little Tikes celebrates 30 years with 9-year-old Tucker Lovelace.
The ride through the Coulee Region helps raise money for the Viroqua kid who has medical needs nobody—especially a 9-year-old—should ever have to endure. The ride should be buzzing by his house as they take off from Great River Harley in Onalaska, go through Viroqua, and end up at Features in Holmen to help make Tucker and his family's wish come true—helping get him the $15,000 medical bed he needs to sleep safely.
With 30 years of Big Bikes, there are surely stories to tell and riders who have been to more than a few of these events to help kids with medical needs. Hoping to capture those stories Saturday—so look for her on the reverse three-wheeler — is Nicole Aarstad, host of the YouTube channel, Know How TV.
We might have joked about the trike she's going to ride, but Aarstad hopes to document the ride live and tell some of the stories that come with the hundreds of people donating time and money out of their day to help these kids.
- Registration: Saturday, 9-11 a.m. at Great River Harley-Davidson (Onalaska)
- Kickstands Up: 11 a.m.
- After-party: Features in Holmen.
- Donate or Register Online: 957therock.com
- Coverage on YouTube at KnowHowTV
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We couldn't get La Crosse County Board chair Tina Tryggestad to ban data centers, but we did have a good talk about a new committee being formed to study the structures.
We also navigated the budget landscape at the state, city, and county levels — including the benefits of the county having an administrator while the city still toils with the idea. We looked at how the county stays stable while the city faces shortfalls, and why those talks of a city administrator have gone silent the last few months.
At the state level, we discussed the budget surplus and the deal three retiring state politicians came up with behind closed doors to spend that $2.5 billion before it was voted down — a deal that basically ignored municipalities.
Tryggestad is just starting her second term as board chair and we talked about the 10 "green" members of the board and how they'll have to learn on the fly to manage a government with 25 departments and 1,200 employees. We also joked that perhaps during those lessons, the two members of the board with four and five decades of experience — Ralph Geary and Steve Doyle — should give speeches about the "good ole days."
Lastly, Tryggestad gave her take on the word transparency and we discussed how the public shouldn't need to be spoon-fed what local government is up to, but also how we could spoon-feed the info anyway.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Saturday marks the 30th year of Big Bikes for Little Tikes.
For those who don’t know, this is the Coulee Region’s version of Make-A-Wish — with motorcycles.
This year, they ride for a 9-year-old Viroqua boy named Tucker Lovelace, who is going through medical hardships no person — let alone child — should have to endure.
Bags from 95.7 The Rock — which hosts the event each year — joined to talk about Tucker, his family, and their “wish.”
The two also reminisced about past Big Bikes kids — some who have grown up and some who have passed on.
Ride Logistics & Registration
- Online Registration: Visit 957therock.com.
- Day-of Registration: 9-11 a.m. Saturday at Great River Harley-Davidson in Onalaska.
- The Ride: Kickstands go up at 11 a.m.
- After-party: The ride ends at Features Sports Bar & Grill in Holmen.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse teachers’ union president Jill Schams in studio discussing how political groups like theirs needs to be, how things might be different without Act 10 and her thoughts on historic status of district buildings.
Schams, who’s president of the La Crosse Education Association, also talks about the school cellphone ban, new names and mascots for the new and renovated elementary schools, and staffing as the district consolidates buildings.
We spent most of our time, though, on politics on various topics. Generally, though, just how schools, teachers and students are all affected by what happens in Madison and Washington, DC., and how teacher groups, union groups and school districts need to navigate those waters.
That discussion includes a look at Act 10, which could be struck down by the Wisconsin Supreme Court, and how things might be different without it. There is also the matter of the $600 million deal struck by three retiring politicians in the state for education funding and how details are needed to take a stance.
In terms of direct La Crosse School District issues, Schams is asked about potential complications that come with buildings getting historic status. When Logan Middle School closed, it was deemed historic after the fact, and the same thing is happening with Emerson Elementary, which will close after next school year. The Lincoln building is still going through a selling process years later, and the district is currently fighting historic status for Emerson.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
City council president Tamra Dickinson in studio helping discuss regulating e-bikes, defining downtown, and the missing public meeting on city admin while the public hears about pools and Pearl Street.
We open the show though with a quick nugget about why United Airlines is delaying flights between La Crosse and Chicago until October. We also talked quick about filling city committee roles and whether to consolidate some of those meetings.
The two big topics though were about the council meeting Thursday over e-bike regulations, which deal somewhat with whether Riverside Park is part of downtown (because you can't bike on sidewalks downtown).
After that, Dickinson was asked where the city administrator conversation is happening. While the city conducts public meetings on a potential indoor aquatics center and a new look for Pearl Street downtown, nothing has come on city administrator — which has been a focal point of city government talks for two years.
Also, with the city council having intensive conversations in committee and at monthly meetings over the budget, we talked about how a city administrator might facilitate those talks.
We also hit on the council having final say on historic status of buildings, including Emerson Elementary School, the city cutting down trees on Rose Street, Drift Cycle spots on the north side.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mac Kiel in studio helping break down what’s happening in La Crosse city government, including a look at e-bike regulation and why the seems to be no city administrator conversation, while we’re conducing pool and Pearl Street meetings.
First, though, Kiel talks a bit about the Finance and Personnel Committee meeting’s discussing Thursday about the budget. Kiel talks about how the council had some good questions for the finance director on why the city puts its budget together the way it does. This was a topic last year, as the city scrambled to balance the budget and talked about the same dilemma with the order it’s constructed.
After that, we weaved a city administrator conversation into the public meetings the city is having surrounding the potential building of a $30 million indoor aquatics facility and the other public meeting about a new vision for Pearl Street downtown.
Lastly, we talked about the Judiciary and Administrative Committee’s look at what could be considered regulation or deregulation when it comes to e-bikes and e-scooters. It’s illegal to bike in Riverside Park? That was one part of the conversation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sam Scinta wears a few different hats in the Coulee Region. He’s the CEO of the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce. He's a political science professor at both UW-La Crosse and Viterbo, where he's also involved with servant leadership.
So, naturally, we brought Scinta on the Rick Solem Show to spend most of our time talking about ... movies? It'll make sense when you listen, but we did eventually wrap up with the state of the Chamber.
Scinta co-hosts the Civics and Cinema program that's been going on the past two years at the Rivoli Theatre. Along with Dr. Rick Kyte — director of the D.B. Reinhart Institute for Ethics in Leadership — the two invite the public to come watch a historical movie, followed by a group discussion about its impact.
Scinta sees the series as a way to step back from the current political noise and use classic films to talk about the fundamental building blocks of a healthy community. It’s less about a current events Q&A and more about a shared experience in a dark theater that gets people thinking about our civic responsibilities in a different way.
This month, they'll be watching the 1976 Watergate classic, All the President’s Men. We talked why Hollywood doesn't really make "adult" movies — Scinta's word — like this anymore — films that drive real conversation. The screening will happen at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday at the Rivoli. The cost is $5 and 100% of the proceeds go back to local nonprofits.
We did wrap up the conversation by getting into what exactly the Chamber of Commerce is and who is actually involved. Scinta admits it’s a bit of a "mystical entity" to some, but it's really a network that includes thousands of local employees — from the big corporations down to the one-man shops and even college students.
We also hit on the "big three" issues the Chamber is looking at right now, like the push for a city administrator in La Crosse and how the region is going to handle the "demographic cliff" and keep young talent in the area.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We learn a little bit about Parkinson's Disease and how to stave it off with Bri Holden.
She's the program coordinator at the Star Center in La Crosse. The Center has its 4th Annual Parkinson's Walk and Awareness event from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Saturday at Myrick Park in La Crosse.
Holden talks to us a little bit about the disease, which isn't curable, and how to fight it off through exercise — which is exactly what they do at the Star Center.
Click here for info and to take part in Saturday's event, which will feature a 1-mile walk, along with food trucks, live music, exercise demonstrations, resource booths and children's activities.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ingrid Lyons, executive director of Save the Boundary Waters, joined to talk about a renewed mining threat to the pristine wilderness area that encompasses 1.1 million acres in northern Minnesota.
We start off with the unique landscape of the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and the new dilemma with a foreign mining company (Antofagasta/Twin Metals) wanting to mine upstream.
Lyons explains the havoc that sulfide-ore mining wreaks on the region and the irony of branding it a "national security" project when the extracted minerals are destined for China.
Next, how we got here: Republicans leveraged a legislative tool that previously had never been used to overturn a mineral withdrawal — the Congressional Review Act (CRA) — to undo a 20-year protection order put in place in 2023.
Then Republicans in the U.S. Senate and U.S. House (with only one exception) passed the legislation and President Donald Trump signed it into law last week — essentially throwing out 675,000 public comments overwhelmingly against mining the area and years of scientific study pointing to its ill effects.
Lastly, we try to understand the end game, because very little of this will benefit the U.S. or Minnesota — and maybe not even the mining company. Lyons addresses whether the project is even economically viable, noting it doesn't appear to benefit the Chilean billionaire's company directly since they have zero-dollar smelting contracts to send those minerals to China.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
State Assembly Rep. Tara Johnson in studio discussing whether Wisconsin should get into the gerrymandering wars, ways to better communicate with constituents and some of the dilemmas she’s hearing from those in her district.
We started the show discussing outreach — holding office hours, hosting town halls and other ways to reach constituents. That conversation started because Johnson has put 70,000 miles on her car, including hosting town halls throughout the state on her proposal for a BadgerCare public option.
After that, we got into some of the issues she’s hearing, including one that’s a big off the radar but relatable to the housing crisis happening everywhere — outside entities are coming into Wisconsin, buying up mobile home parks and jacking up the rent and utilities.
The second half of the show dealt a bit with the gerrymandering wars, as Republican states are changing their voting maps and stopping elections in the middle of voting, while Democratic states are going to the polls and asking voters if they want to change their maps. An issue started by Donald Trump telling Texas Republicans to change their voting maps.
Johnson was asked multiple times if she would be in favor of changing voting maps if things kept getting worse for Democrats.
In Wisconsin, politicians who control the Legislature decide how the maps are drawn but Gov. Tony Evers called a special election a month ago to change this process to a nonpartisan voting commission. Though Republicans have gaveled in and immediately out of all 13 prior Evers’ special elections, this one remains open. And Johnson talks about where she stands on the issue.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One of the biggest events that happens in La Crosse every year is going to remain a staple of the city through the year 2034.
The WIAA and UW-L worked out its longest deal ever, eight years, to keep the state track and field meet here.
La Crosse is always looking to expand the types of events it can host but state track has been a staple since the early 1990s. But, recently we've seen the addition of the WIAA state team wrestling meet in town, as well as other regional and national events.
Helping bring those events to the region is Explore La Crosse. Jeremiah Burish is the sports sales director there. He joined to help discuss getting the state track deal done, what other events could be in the works — like potential bids for state gymnastics or cross country — and some of the high-profile competitions coming to the area.
That includes a massive showcase later this month, as UW-La Crosse prepares to host the NCAA Division III Outdoor Track & Field National Championships at Roger Harring Stadium from May 21–23, and the La Crosse Center will host the DIII wrestling championships next year.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From A New Hope to The Mandalorian, it's a Star Wars day on this May the 4th with Rivoli Theatre co-owners Jon and Clara Gelatt in studio.
What's your first Star Wars memory? Did mom also throw all your toys away? Are the old movies still the best? Is the Star Wars universe oversaturated thanks to Disney?
The Rivoli is playing A New Hope at 5 p.m. and 7:40 p.m. with discounts for those who dress up or bring their lightsabers. The night will feature specialty drinks — perhaps some blue milk — and preshow trivia. A New Hope will also play through Thursday.
Aside from Star Wars, we wrapped up the show looking ahead to a massive month at the Rivoli including:
May 9 — The Greatest Showman: Sing and Dance Along!
May 12 — Civics and Cinema Presents: All the President's Men, that will include a discussion following the movie led by political scientist Dr. Sam Scinta and Viterbo's Dr. Rick Kyte.
March 18 — Kings of Kubb: about the Nordic lawn game. The night will feature documentary Upper Midwest Emmy Award filmmakers B.J. Hollars and Steve Dayton for a brief Q&A following the showing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Todd Fergot joined to talk about the big role he was just awarded, becoming the executive director of the Wisconsin Basketball Coaches Association and some their priorities, like implementing a shot clock and expanding the state tournament.
Fergot has been the boys basketball coach at Central High in La Crosse for 22 years and that’s not changing. But he now takes over this statewide organization that oversees both boys and girls basketball.
We talk the WBCA’s big priorities, including the positives and negatives around implementing a 35-second shot clock, what it means to expand the state tournament and getting participation back up in girls basketball.
Along with state tournament expansion, we also talked about the idea of playing at other venues, like Lambeau Field or the Brewers stadium.
Fergot noted part of the deal to take on the WBCA role was to remain coach at Central and we discuss some of his legacy there, like getting to state six times, winning and losing titles and coaching players like Johnny Davis, who was taken No. 10 in the NBA draft.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's not often you randomly go to interview someone and learn she's the wife of your old high school coach, but that's just what happened in talking with Stephanie Hauser. Not only is she the WIAA's executive director, but her husband is my old basketball coach from Hortonville High School.
But we skipped right over how much Dave Hauser may have yelled at me in gym class and immediately had to talk about their son, Sam Hauser, who's a starter for the Boston Celtics, an NBA champion and one of the best 3-point shooters in the league. Then we talked about their daughter Nicki Hauser being an assistant volleyball coach at Missouri, which is playing Nebraska at Wrigley Field this fall.
After that, we got into some WIAA business, including keeping state track and field at UW-La Crosse through 2034 — an eight-year deal and one of the longest deals they've ever done. Before we discussed that deal — which she told me after the podcast (because she was off on her figures at the end) is for $145,000 a year — we talked about my idea to have state football at Lambeau Field or state baseball at the Brewers stadium.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The director of "sin" tax — or excise taxes — joins to talk about the effects of a gas tax holiday, what Wisconsin gains and is missing out on with legalizing sports betting and marijuana, plus Adam Hoffer is on a mission to walk every street in the city of La Crosse.
We start with the definition of sin or excise tax, and why Hoffer views the gas tax differently as a "user fee" for road maintenance. We then examine calls Hoffer has been taking at the Tax Foundation lately about a gas tax holiday, and what that could mean to our road infrastructure when nearly every dollar of that tax is funneled directly into transportation budgets.
After that, we discuss Hoffer’s walking tour and his goal to cover all 250 miles of city streets, plus how he leads the Emerson Elementary students to school on Wednesdays.
The conversation then turns to the proposed indoor aquatic center at the Northside Community Pool site, as the first of five public meetings was happening just after we recorded. Hoffer, who sat on the UW-La Crosse Faculty Senate during the construction of the $49 million field house, offers perspective on potential funding hurdles, recalling how a single bid jump added $6 million to that project's bottom line.
Lastly, we break down Wisconsin’s legalization of sports gambling and the tens of millions in windfall the state could see, as well as how much it loses by not legalizing marijuana — as all of Wisconsin's neighbors move toward established legal markets.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse’s housing crisis is a multi-front battle involving soaring rents, stagnant inventory, and a lack of available homes. To highlight these challenges and explore potential solutions, Natalie Heneghan, community outreach director at Habitat for Humanity of the Greater La Crosse Region, joined us in studio to preview Housing Week.
From the drivers behind high rent to the struggles of local builders and the city’s pending zoning code updates, Heneghan broke down the upcoming seminar schedule.
Before diving into the policy, we recapped the impact of last weekend’s Neighbor’s Day and then turned our attention to the unique culture at Habitat La Crosse. The organization is powered by a team of 12 — 11 of whom are women.
Then there’s Ralph, the dog. We talked about the dynamic of being a women-led organization and Ralph’s official role on the website: “Director of First Impressions.”
we spoke with Heneghan regarding the Heritage Preservation Commission’s recent vote to grant historic designation to Emerson Elementary School. The seven-member commission voted in favor of the designation, with Heneghan and Mackenzie Mindel casting the only two “no” votes.
The school is slated to close after the next academic year. The school district is currently fighting the historic status, arguing that the designation will restrict future redevelopment options for the site.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle (D-Onalaska) in studio to discuss the "good old days" in Madison, how partisan politics affects getting bills passed, where he stands on online sports gambling, and what the state should do about AI data centers.
We also talked about the upcoming open house at La Crosse County’s newly renovated Hillview Healthcare Center. As a member of the county board, Doyle discussed the $19 million project’s unique features, including a first-of-its-kind intergenerational daycare.
In terms of state politics, the conversation centered around this statistic: of the 500 bills introduced by Democrats this past session, only 19 got a committee hearing. Doyle pointed out that when Democrats last controlled the Legislature, roughly 40% of Republican bills received a hearing — a stark contrast to the 3.8% rate currently seen in Madison.
We also discussed whether getting a bill signed into law actually boosts a candidate's stock during a campaign. Doyle shared a story about a "stolen" bill he had written and saw passed by a Republican. He also highlighted his recently passed legislation capping crypto kiosk deposits at $1,000 per day to protect residents from rampant fraud.
We ended the show discussing online sports betting — which was just signed into law by the governor — and the urgent need for the Legislature to address data centers, which Doyle warns can create astronomical energy demands and offer very few long-term jobs despite receiving massive tax breaks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
William Garcia, the 3rd Congressional District Democratic Party chair in Wisconsin, joined to discuss Wisconsin's candy-soda ban, Democrats winning on the economy for the first time since 2010 — according to FOX, yes FOX — and just how he's feeling about the midterms.
We began the show with then-and-now, asking Garcia about the "mixed bag" of the 2024 election —balancing heartbreak of federal losses with the success of picking up 10 state Legislature seats.
Garcia explains why flipping the state Assembly is now the primary target and how those new boundaries have shifted the political landscape for incumbents like Republican Derek Van Orden in the US House.
We then get into the FOX poll on the economy, where 52% now trust Democrats. We hit on the 32% spike in gas prices tied to the conflict in Iran to the $162 billion corporate "tariff refund" that's like a gift to retailers like Walmart.
In the second half of the show, we dive into a new Wisconsin law that the use of food stamps on soda and candy — except for things like ice cream, because "Wisconsin," of course.
We look how the government needs to spend $73 million to ban poor people from using food stamps to buy a Mt. Dew, and also Trump's Big Beautiful Bill only complicates this more by opening the door for the feds to take up to $200 million in federal funding away for food stamps.
We wrap up with the Trump administration targeting the Southern Poverty Law Center.
We did hit on two funny nonpolitical stories. One, a quote on dating from actor Henry Cavil saying, "If you like her, just ask her out. It always works for me." And another story on a California man arrested after returning $34,000 worth of Lego sets with macaroni in the boxes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A 10 out of 10. That’s how interesting, or maybe it was how "important," Mac Kiel thought the April monthly city council meeting was.
She stopped in studio to help recap the meeting, which included things like the city police being a couple hundred thousand dollars over budget, while other city departments were under budget and how the city council learned of this over the past few weeks.
Another thing the council apparently learned over the past few weeks is that the city had around $300,000 in ARPA interest funding with no official plan to use it. That led to one council member proposing using $90,000 to open the North Side Community Pool this summer last minute. So, we discussed that revelation and the dilemmas to having the pool open for the season — while there are also plans to build a new indoor pool facility at that site potentially.
We also discussed — to a degree — using $400,000 in TID money on the Civic Center Park District. It’s a thing we discussed before it made its round on council and how the TID money does or does not have to be used before it expires.
Lastly, we talked about the La Crosse School Board’s decision earlier this week to keep the old name for a new elementary school, while renaming an old school. We also discussed briefly the names that were not picked.
Kiel is a former La Crosse City Council member, who is an advocate for providing the public with what is happening with city government. She also serves on some city boards and works with the unsheltered population.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It happened this show, trying to recall a famous name from the 1990s and going through the steps with your mind to get there.
Is it Alzheimer’s? No, and Dr. Kimberly Mueller, an associate professor at UW-Madison and researcher at the Wisconsin Alzheimer’s Disease Research Center, was there firsthand to explain it.
Mueller joined the show ahead of her visit to town to give us a look at the current state of dementia and Alzheimer’s research. We dive into the “blood test revolution” making early detection easier, the local impact of the WRAP study at Mayo in La Crosse, and the lifestyle changes that actually work for prevention — all while getting a glimpse into how an expert in the field spends a typical day.
We began the conversation by discussing why these “tip of the tongue” moments — like trying to recall the Mark McGwire using creatine to hit homers scandal — are actually a standard part of typical aging that many of us notice as early as our 40s.
Mueller explains that even experts in the field experience these lapses, but she clarifies the specific “red flag” for when word-finding transitions from a normal annoyance to a medical concern. That McGwire connection led to a deeper look at the diagnostic side of the field, where simple blood tests are now replacing invasive brain scans to detect changes earlier than ever before.
Much of this data comes from the Wisconsin Registry for Alzheimer’s Prevention (WRAP) — one of the largest studies of its kind — which operates a research site right here at Mayo Clinic in La Crosse.
From there, the discussion shifted to the prevention side of the research, exploring why heart health and exercise are proving more effective than “brain games.” Mueller explains that while staying active might not stop the biological proteins of Alzheimer’s from forming, keeping your cardiovascular system in check is a major reason dementia prevalence is actually starting to trend downward.
Lastly, we asked Mueller what a professor who researches, studies, and teaches about dementia does in a typical day. Mueller explains her expertise in studying the brain by listening to the way we speak. She breaks down how her team uses digital recordings to analyze “acoustic measures” — the subtle timing, pauses, and sounds within our speech — to identify microscopic red flags that the human ear simply cannot hear.
Any school, group or organization that would like to host a Badger Talk, either in person or online, email here or request a speaker online at badgertalks.wisc.edu.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The best and worst from La Crosse Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey’s first year in office, as he stops in studio just days after that anniversary. We also discuss the city’s decision to appeal the Town of Campbell’s incorporation, the ongoing conversation around the north side pool, community outreach, and the reimagining of Pearl Street.
We began the show highlighting Washington-Spivey’s top year-one successes before tackling the tougher challenges.
That led to a bit of a deep dive into city budget talks and how La Crosse qualifies for between $1-2 million in state funding by staying under a strict spending cap — something that was also discussed in the last city council meeting.
Another big part of our conversation — and the last city council meeting — was the status of the north side pool. The Mayor weighs in on the council voting down $90,000 in funding to operate the pool this summer, its need for $1 million in repairs, and the potential collaboration between the city and school district to build a year-round indoor facility.
After that, the Mayor was asked about the legal tension with the Town of Campbell wanting to incorporate and the city’s reasons for appealing that decision.
In the second half of the show, we break down the features of the new city website and how to get the community better involved and informed on what’s happening within government.
We also hit on a couple of things happening, including why the city is putting off a decision on bike lanes down Green Bay Street and the details about how La Crosse could revamp Pearl Street to be better for both community and business.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio discussing how Wisconsin's US House members use the F bomb more than anyone, taxpayers are now paying for Badgers players and have state Republicans lost their "muscle."
We started the show with the Brewers "city" Wisco jerseys, which led to how our state Legislature will do anything to use taxpayer money on sports. From the $500 million Brewers stadium funding deal a few years ago to the state signing into law this week using $14.6 million to pay Badgers players.
Chergosky offered an interesting theory: lawmakers are just giant Badger fans who are terrified of losing ground to Indiana and Michigan — the National Champions in football and men's basketball.
Next, we recapped the spring election fallout on the GOP side. With a 20-point blowout in the Supreme Court race, we discussed the "lazy GOP" theory, put forth by Bill McCoshen, a prominent Republican strategist and former top advisor to Tommy Thompson. It's the idea that years of favorable maps left the party organizationally "out of shape" and unable to scrap for votes now that the playing field has leveled.
Lastly, we get to analysis of who in Congress uses the F word the most, and it turns out two of the top three are US House members from Wisconsin. And the list is bipartisan — Republican Derrick Van Orden and Democrat Mark Pocan.
Lastly, we get to analysis of who in Congress uses the F word the most, and it turns out two of the top three are US House members from Wisconsin. And the list is bipartisan — Republican Derrick Van Orden and Democrat Mark Pocan.
That, though, led to a discussion about the Third Congressional District race and Van Orden's recent social media push for a debate. Chergosky noted that Van Orden seems ready to bypass the primary entirely to take on Rebecca Cooke, who still has to defeat Emily Berge in August. Van Orden hasn't debated in either of his past two races. The last time he debated was before a 2020 loss to Ron Kind.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mandela Barnes is back on the campaign trail, this time running for governor, and he stopped in studio leaning heavily into a "working class vs. corporate greed" narrative.
Throughout the show, Barnes hit on his priorities, giving a Top 10 of what he’d like to get done that included expanding BadgerCare, fully funding public schools, and increasing the minimum wage. He also detailed plans to freeze utility rates, tax billionaires, and implement universal childcare, arguing that Wisconsin has "backslid" while neighboring states have pulled ahead.
We didn't just talk about his "wish list," though. We also threw Barnes a bit of a conspiracy theory that Republicans in the Legislature — including retiring leadership — might be trying to "set the state up to fail," by draining the budget surplus before a potential Democratic takeover.
Barnes also took aim at US House Rep. Tom Tiffany, the Republican candidate for governor, calling his support of certain federal policies a "dereliction of duty" that has left Wisconsin family farms and small businesses footing the bill.
The conversation wrapped with skepticism about AI data centers in the state. Barnes joined the pushback against the "secrecy deals" and non-disclosure agreements that often surround these projects, arguing that if big tech wants to use Wisconsin’s water and energy, they shouldn't be doing it behind closed doors — or at the expense of local ratepayers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse City Council president Tamra Dickinson in studio for our monthly deep dive into the April council cycle.
On the show, we discuss shifting operating budget funding, where the city administrator talk should be happening, and what's the latest for the old Kmart lot. We also hit on the idea of building an indoor pool facility and the debate over Emerson Elementary School getting historic designation.
But we started with a "restart" on the Kmart site—why a last-minute decision to split the lot into four parcels is pushing the project back another 30 days. We also dig into the "orthopedic" history of Emerson and why the school district is pushing back against a landmark status that could complicate a future sale and how the council will have the final say.
Sticking with the school district, we discuss how the indoor pool proposal could cost anywhere from $30-$50 million and Dickinson breaks down how those conversations are moving forward.
Finally, when it comes to city finance, we look at the "controversial" process of shuffling operating budget money between departments to cover those "in the red," plus the $450,000 use of TID money for Civic Center Park. That leads to talk on how these budget items highlight the need for a City Administrator, but where exactly are those conversations happening?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Adam Murphy on the environmental suck of AI data centers and Wisconsin's Supreme Court race
He's what we like to call our political blowhard — politics and economics expert Adam Murphy recently joined the show to discuss the cost of AI data centers, the cost of gasoline vs. EVs and whether gender might play a role in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race.
We start with the physical infrastructure of AI and why RAM prices are exploding as data centers transition from simple storage to massive processing hubs.
That led into the "resource sucking" reality of these data centers in Wisconsin and across the world —as I again compare them to what happens in the movie Oblivion — and whether the state should mandate that tech giants over-produce for the local power grid to keep electricity costs down for everyone else.
We then moved on to the Wisconsin Supreme Court race and why the candidates' gender might be a bigger variable for Republican voters than Democrats in the upcoming Chris Taylor vs. Maria Lazar matchup.
We finished off the show breaking down the EV math and why charging at home is essentially paying $1.64 a gallon (last week), which makes "range anxiety" for people like Adam’s 72-year-old mother mostly a myth.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers does the Friday news dump, vetoing no tax on tips and overtime, and the state doesn’t have a villain to make voters care about a Supreme Court race.
Those were the big topics we covered with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky.
We also looked at the politics behind whether leaders in the state Legislature and the governor — who are all retiring — are going to do anything with property tax relief and the budget surplus.
But, we began with Chris Taylor smoking Maria Lazar in funding in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race which is on the spring ballot, but because there’s no Elon Musk to bring attention to it, and the balance of the court isn’t on the line, it’s almost going unheard.
After that, we discussed the reasoning behind Evers vetoing no tax on tips and overtime — two of over 20 bills he vetoed.
Part of that discussion included that Evers is retiring so there are no repercussion to the vetoes, which seem unpopular. That led us to another issue with Evers retiring — the fact that it’s just him, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Senate Majority Leader Devin LeMahieu being the only ones negotiating possible property tax relief. All three are not seeking reelection — retiring from politics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A couple of ideas we've been talking about for years on WIZM are now being put into action at La Crosse City Hall.
Jenna Dinkel, an associate city planner, joined to discuss La Crosse bringing back the iconic "Hatched Baby" or blue baby, as well as a the reimagining of Pearl Street in downtown La Crosse.
Hatched Baby was vandalized years ago and the city had to take it down. But artists have now restored the 9-foot-tall artwork and we are brainstorming the best places in La Crosse to place it.
After that, Dinkel talks about the reimagining of Pearl Street downtown into, what we've been saying is La Crosse version of Madison's State Street — a pedestrian-only street. The city has three concept plans for how it could change Pearl Street ahead of possible construction in 2029.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Terry Bauer in the WIZM studio, telling us about the Moon Tunes tribute party Thursday at the Rivoli Theatre in downtown La Crosse, ahead of the 15th year of this concert series at Riverside Park. The event is free but it's already half full. Tickets can be found on the Rivoli website here. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and the tribute video begins at 6:30 p.m. There will be raffles drawn throughout the night, which Bauer goes over. After that, we get into what we can expect from Moon Tunes this summer — the first concert is set for June 4 (schedule).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lt. Gov. Sara Rodriguez stopped in studio to discuss her campaign to become Wisconsin's next governor hitting on everything from housing to childcare to minimum wage and marijuana — plus how weird her current job is.
After getting to know the former healthcare executive and public health expert, we dove into her "nurse-first" approach to policy, including a bold childcare plan that caps family costs at 7% of income and her push to legalize recreational marijuana as a way to finally bridge the state’s school funding gap.
We also got into the "infuriating" housing market and why she believes the state needs to prioritize building starter homes for ownership, not just more rentals.
Plus, we pull back the curtain on just how "weird" the job of Lieutenant Governor actually is—from the "shotgun marriage" of the ticket to how she’d hand off major responsibilities to her own No. 2 if elected.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Stadium food prices are getting out of hand, and Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff was in studio to discuss how legislative action could bring costs down for fans.
Pfaff (D-Onalaska) broke down his “Stop the Squeeze” bill, which would cap concession prices at state-funded stadiums at 20% profit margins.
We also compared what must be the best and worst concession deals in baseball — a St. Louis Cardinals ticket-food package that has to be cheaper than a lot of restaurants, while the LA Dodgers’ all-you-can-drink soda price is so steep that Pfaff couldn’t even guess the cost.
Also on the show, we discussed Gov. Tony Evers and Republican leaders Devin LeMahieu and Robin Vos working behind the scenes on a compromise for property tax relief and public school funding. Pfaff noted the irony of these closed-door talks, as all three men are set to leave office after this term, leaving the rank-and-file legislators, who are actually running for re-election out of the loop.
We started the show discussing the possibility of a special session called by Evers to establish a nonpartisan redistricting commission to create fair voting maps, and got into how the Legislature is already done with its work for the year — highlighting a state Senate session that lasted only one day this month in a frantic attempt to pass 111 bills, of which only 80 made it to a vote before leadership called it quits.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mac Kiel in studio previewing committee week for the city of La Crosse, which includes potentially spending thousands of dollars in TID money like it’s an expiring gift card, that includes some big projects.
Kiel helps explain—with the help of TID expert John Kovari from UW-L speaking with us before the show—some of the potential avenues for spending the money, which includes moving up the timetable on $450,000 in Civic Center Park upgrades, covering cost overruns on the $4 million Wagon Wheel Trail grant, or making the final $120,000 payment to the wastewater treatment plant.
We also discussed the $10,000 library mural, how the Cameron Park farmers market on Sundays will be a little bit more than what’s traditionally been there, and a look back at the closed session regarding the Radisson. We also we break down the difference between those secret meetings and the "special meeting" appeal for a North Side business happening next week.
Kiel is a former La Crosse City Council member, who is an advocate for providing the public with what is happening with city government. She also serves on some city boards and works with the unsheltered population.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Holocaust survivor Irene Miller stopped in studio to tell her story, ahead of Thursday’s event at Viterbo University.
Miller tells her tale of resilience that defies imagination, beginning when she was 6 years old, her family fleeing the Germans to Warsaw for the "safety" of the Soviet Union. What they found instead was a frozen exile in Siberian labor camps and a desperate fight against starvation in Uzbekistan.
This isn't just a history lesson; it is a conversation about the "chutzpah," as Miller tells it, it takes to survive when everything — and everyone — is taken from you.
- The frozen forest: Hear Miller describe Siberian winters so cold that birds froze to the trees, and the wooden shacks where families huddled for warmth.
- Survival on "Boiled grass:" Miller recounts the near-starvation in Uzbekistan where her family was forced to eat boiled leaves and onions to stay alive.
- A legacy of loss: Out of an extended family of over 100 people, Miller was the only one to survive the "graveyard" that Poland had become.
- A message for 2026: At 93 years old, Miller shares her candid perspective on the "hate and divisiveness" she sees today and why she still believes in the "goodness of every baby."
Miller was joined by Holocaust educator Darryle Clott, who asked, "How is it possible that after those horrible things, you are still positive?"
Miller’s answer to that question is something every person needs to hear.
Event Details: Miller will speak at 7 p.m. Thursday at the Viterbo Fine Arts Center. The event is free and open to the public. Guests should plan to arrive at 6:30 p.m. to get a seat.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Assembly Rep. Tara Johnson (D-Shelby) stopped in studio to help recap the work the state Legislature got done and what still needs to be accomplished — but won't.
We began the show discussing how the Legislature is done working for the rest of 2026, despite the need for property tax relief, education and childcare funding, along with Democratic priorities like raising the minimum wage and creating a public option for healthcare.
The latter is a recent proposal from Johnson, who describes what it means for Wisconsin to have a BadgerCare public option for health insurance.
Johnson also helps break down the final days of session, and if the state Assembly set the Senate up to fail. Last week the Senate met for one day to pass 111 bills but only got through a portion of them before calling it quits for the year. Johnson argues the Assembly didn't set the Senate up to fail, but the two branches work very differently.
She described the Assembly, run by Republican Speaker Robin Vos, as authoritarian, while characterizing the Senate GOP, led by Republican Devin LeMahieu, as anarchy.
Coincidentally enough, both Vos and LeMahieu are now retiring, which is perhaps a sign that Republicans expect a shift in power after the fall elections, as the new maps keep shaping the politics in the state.
Johnson also discussed how the governor could call the Legislature back for a special session to codify a process to create fair voting maps.
In terms of what the Legislature did get done, some of it was non-controversial and Johnson talks of these, including Gail's Law, postpartum Medicaid expansion from 60 days to a year and PFAS funding.
Others, though, like sports betting legalization and allotting $14.6 million in taxpayer dollars for the University of Wisconsin-Madison to essentially pay athletes NIL money, come with some baggage.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If he's going to run for president, his slogan might be, "Washington needs a good powerwashing."
Rahm Emanuel, Barack Obama's former Chief of Staff, stopped in the WIZM studio ahead of a town hall at UW-La Crosse to discuss some issues with D.C.
That included his 75-year-old mandatory retirement age, banning prediction market betting for federal employees and their families, and how to help secondary education institutions, like Western Technical College.
Emanuel was also asked how he’d get the U.S. out of the war with Iran, and he agreed with the concern over a Commander in Chief whose military objectives change by the hour. Emanuel argued that while troops are risking their lives, D.C. insiders are "betting against America" through predictive markets and normalized corruption — stating that Washington needs a "2x4 upside their head" to refocus on governing.
On the domestic side, Emanuel claimed that the federal government is AWOL on job training. He proposed a massive shift in priorities, suggesting that instead of spending millions building detention centers, the U.S. should invest that money into "educational excellence" at places like Western Tech to fill the massive shortage of electricians and nurses.
He also touched on the need for federal-state partnerships to modernize technical schools and ensure the next generation is ready for high-paying, middle-class careers.
Emanuel is a former U.S. Congressman, White House Chief of Staff to Barack Obama, two-term Mayor of Chicago, and former U.S. Ambassador to Japan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio, discussing the end of the Wisconsin state Legislature's work for the year that essentially got the second-highest ranking Republican to quit — but it wasn't over banning milkshakes from legislation.
Before we got into that though, WIZM's Brad Williams joined to discuss how the farmers market is coming back to Cameron Park — just on a different day — and how the prospect of having an indoor pool between the city and the school district is going.
After that, we got into how "Big Milkshake" created its own exemption in a state bill that bans poor people from buying candy or soda with food stamps in Wisconsin, but they can still have their ice cream. It's a ban that will cost millions of dollars in added administrative costs, and another $5-6 million to create such a database.
We also discussed how the second-highest ranking Republican is retiring now due to two sports bills he allowed Democrats to help pass — one that essentially gives the Wisconsin Badgers $14.6 million in taxpayer money to pay players, while the other allows sports betting throughout the state.
Chergosky explains the Wisconsin Senate's "Rule of 17" which means only Republicans (or who controls the state Seante but it's been Republicans over 15 years) should have the votes to pass bills. Since the two sports bills needed Democrats, Devin Lemahieu is now retiring from the Legislature because he allowed the bills to be voted on.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey in the WIZM studio discussing the Kmart lot and development in La Crosse, advocating for the city in Madison — as well as other stakeholders here — plus the city-school relationship with elementary buildings coming offline and the idea of creating an indoor pool facility.
We also discussed how Washington-Spivey has changed strategic planning sessions and where a city administrator role could fit into everything that’s going on.
We began the show, though, discussing the mayor’s “Our city, Your 15” initiatives, where he talks one on one with residents for 15 minutes about whatever topics, issues or ideas they have with the city.
In terms of development, the mayor was asked if he’ll be the one that finally gets to take the wrecking ball to the Kmart.
We also talked about billionaire Diane Hendricks buying the Charmant and if Washington-Spivey had reached out to her. She could have other plans for the city — like what she’s doing in her hometown of Beloit.
We also discussed the public market idea, as well as a Cowboy Jacks restaurant coming to River Point and Hollandberry Pannekoeken opening last weekend.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board candidate Scott Neumeister Q&A with Rick Solem.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board candidate Deb Suchla Q&A with Rick Solem.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board candidate Loretta Hass Q&A with Rick Solem.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board candidate Jake Williams Q&A with Rick Solem.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board candidate Lee Weis Q&A with Rick Solem.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Trevor Sprague, La Crosse School Board candidate Q&A with Rick Solem.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Wisconsin Badgers are pushing for a state funding bill that would take $14.6 million in taxpayer money to essentially help pay its players.
The funding would help pay down facility debt and free up funding Wisconsin could use to pay NIL money to athletes.
We tried to solve that dilemma with University of Wisconsin Athletic Director Chris McIntosh by joking that the beer sales should have been enough, but perhaps they need to move all the Badgers volleyball games to Camp Randall, where sellout crowds would surely bring in more revenue.
McIntosh explains why even those ideas wouldn't be enough to bridge the gap.
The AD joined Friday just after the Badgers upset No. 9 Illinois in the Big Ten tournament — so that’s where we started — but the conversation quickly turned to the $20.5 million price tag now required to stay competitive in Division I sports.
Thanks to a massive lawsuit settlement, the "pay-to-play" era is officially here, and McIntosh discusses the dilemma the university claims to have trying to satisfy the star players while keeping the less profitable sports and Olympic programs afloat.
There’s no guarantee the state Senate actually votes on the legislation this week, or that it will pass, despite sailing through the Assembly with a 95-1 vote. The Senate is only scheduled to work 1-2 days before taking the rest of 2026 off — meaning the future of the Badgers' budget is currently racing against a very short clock.
We ran McIntosh through various scenarios, weighing the positives and negatives of the bill. We covered the open records dilemma, the potential fallout if the funding stalls, plus we get into the "how we got here" context — from the transfer portal and NIL money to the court rulings that have changed college sports forever.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Giving UW-Madison $14.6 million in taxpayer money to pay players, will sports gambling become legal and gas prices going up were the big topics we covered Friday with economist, Dr. Adam Hoffer.
Hofffer is the director of excise tax policy at the Tax Foundation and began by explaining what excise tax is — or sin taxes, like gambling, alcohol, marijuana. Another one of those excise taxes is gas, and Hoffer explained how Wisconsin’s gas prices could skyrocket because of the war in Iran — if certain Legislators had their way — but the way the state taxes gas now, makes the most sense.
In the sports world, the Wisconsin state Senate is going to work one or two more days next week, before calling it quits for the rest of 2026. Among the flurry of bills that could get a vote, one would be on legalizing sports gambling, and Hoffer explains how that might work — and how that will immediately trigger lawsuits.
The other bill is a request from UW-Madison for $14.6 million. This money would be for “facilities” but it is a way to offset costs of Division I college now having the option to pay their players up to $20.5 million total a year. Hoffer explains some of the pros and cons for the state, the university and the taxpayer around that bill.
We also look at how the sports gambling bill could help the "paying the players" request.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's the world's shortest race, but it's been going on for a long time. Saturday is 95.7 the Rock's 21st annual St. Paddy's Day .01K down Pearl Street in La Crosse. Bags from the Rock stopped by to help preview the event and tell some stories of past races. This is the type of race anyone can do, and brag about getting a coveted shirt that proves you're a runner. Registration happens online here or beginning at 3 p.m. at Brothers. The race happens at 6 p.m. and ends around 6:01 p.m. — if you take your time.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He has more receptions in college football history than anyone, he tried out for the Green Bay Packers, he won a European football championship playing both ways, and he might drive his Hall of Fame coach dad crazy with what he wants to do with the UW-La Crosse football team.
Michael Zweifel just took over the UW-L program and he joined Thursday as we relived some of his glory days and discussed how he’s going to approach the new gig as head coach. Zweifel has been with UW-L the past four years, including the last two as defensive coordinator.
As a player, Zweifel won what’s the Division III version of the Heisman (Gagliardi Trophy) with Dubuque, and led the nation in yards (1,915) and catches (140) back in 2011. He also graduated with 463 receptions, the most in college football history.
That earned him a tryout with the Packers, during the height of the Aaron Rodgers-to-Jordy Nelson days. Some years later Zweifel went on to play for the Vienna Vikings, winning a championship there.
Zweifel is also a sports science nerd and his approach to practices and utilizing time might come as a bit of a football culture shock — certainly to his dad, Stan Zweifel. While his father — who coached at UW-Whitewater and Dubuque and has written six books on coaching — believes in traditional "mental toughness," Michael is leaning into "chaos training." He plans to scrap "sterile" drills like hitting the sled or running through bags in favor of "small-sided games" that force players to be adaptable.
"If it doesn't move the needle forward, we're not gonna waste our time on it," Zweifel said, noting that improving weightlifting numbers "doesn't make you a better football player" and he'll eliminate things that don't help on Saturdays.
We also discuss taking over a program that’s been to the playoffs five consecutive years and just watched its rival, UW-River Falls, win the national championship last season. Zweifel is now tasked with rebuilding a defense that graduated eight starters as he looks to take the Eagles to the next level.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked some glory days and previewed the National Championships with Hall of Fame UW-La Crosse wrestling coach Dave Malecek.
That included the coach, in his 20th season, being brutally honest about what “college days Malecek” would do to the eight guys he has headed to Nationals this Friday and Saturday in Cedar Rapids, Iowa.
Malecek was a two-time state champ at Osage High School (91-9 career record) and went on to qualify for Division I Nationals four times at Northern Iowa, before participating in the USA Wrestling Team Olympic Trials in 1992 and 1996.
Aside from his wrestling days, we get into the eight from UW-L headed to Nationals this weekend and what makes each of those guys unique.
That includes one who graduated from UW-L as a two-time Nationals qualifier — where he took 2nd and 3rd — then went back home to coach his brother in high school for a year and is now back as a grad student and back at Nationals ranked with a 17-0 record.
Over Malecek’s career at UW-L, he’s coached 72 All-Americans, including 14 individual National Champions.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We covered a lot with La Crosse city council president Tamra Dickinson in studio, including infrastructure projects like the old Kmart, a new restaurant in River Point, and the North Side Library’s future use. We also talked about why Dickinson voted against city administrator, where La Crosse is at with its zoning overhaul and the upcoming strategic planning session.
With the Northside Community Library scheduled to close June 30, and a news conference from north siders on wanting to use the building as a community center, Dickinson talked about the process of potentially declaring the building a "surplus,” and the "expression of interest" phase.
In regards to the old Kmart, we did a quick recap of its time with Three-Sixty Real Estate Solutions, which let an 18-month extension for the rezoning to expire, and how it now has to essentially start from scratch with the design review and zoning process.
Also, two big meetings are coming up this month that could have citywide impacts.
A joint session March 18 will tackle a massive overhaul of residential zoning. It’s the first of two meetings intended to simplify the city's code so it's actually "easier to work with" for residents and developers alike, according to Dickinson. She noted the goal is to refine rules on things like "tiny homes" and having multiple buildings on one lot — things that currently force people to jump through the zoning appeals process. Instead of constant one-off exceptions, the city is looking to modernize the code to match how people are actually living and building today.
The other meeting, on March 24, is a strategic planning session that Dickinson says is designed to help the council "focus and vision" for the city's future. Rather than just reacting to the monthly agenda, she hopes this session allows the council to identify long-term priorities—which is also why she wants the city administrator discussion to happen there, away from the pressure of a looming vote.
Shifting back to more immediate council business Thursday, we got into a $120,000 "beautification" project for 3rd and 4th streets that includes new planters and trash cans downtown and whether that’s logical considering the Wisconsin DOT will tear up all of downtown in 2030.
Last month, the council saw a city administrator proposal fall two votes short of passing, and Dickinson was one of the no votes but supports the idea. She talked about why, including how the legislation was becoming "hard to follow" with last-minute amendments and five different changes flying around. By voting it down now, she says the council has the "freedom of being able to talk about it without us worrying about it being active legislation," with the goal of bringing a cleaner version back once strategic planning sessions conclude this summer.
To wrap up, we looked at "Renew the Block," a Habitat for Humanity project on Avon Street that Dickinson has been heavily involved with. On March 25, the city will host a presentation at the Nature Place to show other neighborhoods how the project successfully integrated stormwater management and curb appeal — proving that neighborhood revitalization can be a blueprint for the rest of the city.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After nine months of construction, the "pardon our mess" signs at the La Crosse Public Library are finally coming down.
Library director Dawn Wacek stopped in studio Monday to preview the grand reopening of the facility on Main Street happening from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Wednesday — with tours every hour. The $3.1 million interior renovation covered about 40% of the building's footprint — all funded through a competitive state grant from the Wisconsin Department of Administration’s Flexible Facilities Program. Wacek noted the funding allowed the library to "fast-track" upgrades without hitting local property taxes or the city's day-to-day operating budget.
Listen live weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Find the pod on Spotify, Apple Podcast or here. Tune in on the WIZM app or on air at 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska)
The conversation touched on the new "vibe" of the space, which Wacek described as more modern and flexible. One of Wacek’s favorite upgrades are the "Brody chairs" — semi-enclosed private nooks with built-in desks and lighting. Beyond the new seating, the renovation added several specialized areas, including:
- A 100-seat auditorium and classroom space on the main floor.
- An updated "CREATE" maker space for hands-on projects.
- Eight new meeting and study rooms spread across both floors.
- A refreshed public computer area and a second-floor computer lab.
- Two first-floor meeting rooms dedicated to community service access.
- Renovated, more accessible first-floor restrooms.
We also half joked about one thing that didn't make the blueprints: a coffee shop. Wacek explained the "pluses and minuses" of bringing in a cafe partner, noting that while it's a popular request, the risk of a partner going out of business often leads to "wasted space" in public buildings.
Beyond the renovations, we discussed how the library is pivoting to meet people where they are. Wacek highlighted a new pilot program for "library lockers" at the Main branch, where patrons can pick up materials after hours using a keycode. The goal is to eventually expand those kiosks to the north and south ends of the city to provide access even when the physical buildings are closed.
We also got into city budget talks, as the mayor has made it a focus to tackle that early on in the year. With the library making up about 8% of the city’s total budget, Wacek talked about being "at the table" for 2026 planning and the long-term goal of launching a fundraising campaign to modernize the "desperately undersized" children’s, teen, and tween areas.
To wrap up, we went through some of the books currently featured on the library's new "face-out" display shelving, plus looked at some of the stats from library use the past few years and went over the logistics of Wednesday's reopening, which will include guided tours each hour from various library staffers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Guests on La Crosse Talk PM previewed Irish events in La Crosse, including the St. Patrick’s Day Parade, Shamrock Club traditions and the Coulee Hoolie.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Garrett Paulson, pictured above, stopped by the WIZM studio Thursday on La Crosse Talk PM to talk about financial responsibility, healthy money habits, and why giving back to the community matters.
Jason Spangler hosted the conversation, focusing on practical, behavior-first ideas listeners can use in everyday life — from building a plan and avoiding common money traps to staying consistent and tying financial decisions to personal values.
During the interview, Paulson broke down what “financial responsibility” looks like in real life, emphasizing discipline, routines, and small steps people can take to feel more in control of their money. The discussion stayed centered on education and mindset rather than specific products or personal financial advice.
The conversation also explored habits that can help people make progress over time, including budgeting in a realistic way, building an emergency fund, managing debt without feeling overwhelmed, and using systems like automation and routines to stay on track when life gets busy.
Paulson also spoke about the connection between financial discipline and community involvement. In addition to his work as a financial advisor with Northwestern Mutual, he is involved with the Delta Sigma Phi Alumni Board, Rotary, Next Steps for Change, and the Sons of the American Legion. He shared why service matters to him and encouraged listeners who want to give back locally to start small, stay consistent, and lead with purpose.
The interview wrapped with practical takeaways listeners can put into action right away, including ways parents can model healthy financial behaviors at home and how success can look different when money is aligned with values, purpose, and community.
Listen to the full interview below.
Listen live weekdays at 5:00 p.m. Tune in on the WIZM app or on air at 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM.
More information: Garrett Paulson, Northwestern Mutual, 608-797-4512, 2737 National Dr, Onalaska, WI 54650
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dave Larsen and Tess Larsen, pictured above, stopped by the WIZM studio Wednesday on La Crosse Talk PM to talk about Freedom Honor Flight — and how the Coulee Region can help local veterans take a powerful, one-day trip to Washington, D.C. to visit the memorials built in their honor.
Jason Spangler hosted the conversation, focusing on what Freedom Honor Flight is, who qualifies, what the day in D.C. looks like, and clear ways listeners can get involved — whether that’s applying, volunteering, donating, or supporting local fundraising efforts.
Freedom Honor Flight is an all-volunteer nonprofit based out of La Crosse. The organization serves 22 counties across Wisconsin, Minnesota, and Iowa, flying 200+ veterans annually and helping more than 3,000 veterans since 2008, with both spring and fall flights.
During the interview, Larsen helped listeners picture “flight day” — from the early morning airport send-off, to a full day of meaningful stops in the nation’s capital, and an emotional welcome home. Veterans typically visit key memorials (often including WWII, Korea, Vietnam, and more) plus Arlington National Cemetery, with medical support available throughout the day and a guardian paired with each veteran.
The discussion also covered eligibility and how the priority system works, how families can start the application process, and the important role guardians play in making the trip safe, comfortable, and memorable — especially for veterans with mobility challenges or ongoing medical needs. Larsen emphasized the heart behind the mission: “This is how we say thank you.”
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joanna Drazkowski, pictured above, stopped by the WIZM studio Tuesday on La Crosse Talk PM to talk fitness, yoga, running, and how small, consistent habits can make a big difference—especially for busy parents. Drazkowski teaches at Root Down Yoga Studio and also instructs group fitness classes at the La Crosse Area Family YMCA’s Houser Branch.
Jason Spangler hosted the conversation, which began with Drazkowski’s personal story—how she found her way to the La Crosse/Onalaska area and why yoga became a natural extension of her background as a runner. At Root Down, she’s been described as a “calm creator,” with a guiding mindset of “embrace the discomfort.” The interview also touched on what she hopes students feel when they walk out of class—both physically and mentally.
In the second segment, Drazkowski shared practical encouragement for listeners who feel intimidated by the idea of getting back into a workout routine, along with approachable first steps people can try this week. The discussion included injury-prevention habits for runners, how to safely “lean into discomfort” without pushing past what’s smart, and what a simple 20-minute at-home routine can look like.
The conversation also included a brief, informational look at Drazkowski’s candidacy for La Crosse County Board Supervisor in District 18, and how community wellness connects to local priorities.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Assem Izmukhanova Kopitzke, Erica Koonmen, and Lisbeth Reynertson stopped by the WIZM studio Monday night on La Crosse Talk PM to preview the 2026 International Women’s Day Celebration at UW–La Crosse.
Jason Spangler hosted the program, filling in for Rick Solem while he’s on vacation.
The conversation covered this year’s theme, “Give to Gain,” and what the community can expect from the evening — including a panel featuring women representing Denmark, Kazakhstan, and Nigeria, followed by time for audience Q&A.
The 14th Annual International Women’s Day Celebration is happening Tuesday, March 3 from 5–7 p.m. in the Bluffs Ballroom inside the UWL Student Union. The event is free and open to the public. There will also be a menstrual product collection at the door to benefit local schools and women’s shelters (donations of tampons or pads are appreciated).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Third Congressional District Democratic Party chair William Garcia stopped by the WIZM studio Friday to discuss Wisconsin politics.
We covered everything from a state Legislature that is already done working for the rest of 2026 to the new Marquette University Law School poll on gubernatorial candidates — which suggests nobody knows who they’re voting for just yet.
We also broke down the “La Crosse viral” video of Central High School’s John Havlicek asking US House Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-Prairie du Chien) what he can do to bring costs down.
The video has a few bizarre exchanges, from the Congressman handing Havlicek his helmet before entering the bathroom to Van Orden oddly bumping into the longtime educator.
That contact was a notable echo of an incident at the 2024 Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, where Van Orden claimed a “bump” from a protester was “political violence” — an accusation that that woman jailed for 14 hours before bodycam footage eventually cleared her and showed no evidence of an assault.
The video concludes with the Republican claiming the Spanish teacher is a “paid plant” sent to D.C. by George Soros.
Havlicek has been teaching Spanish at Central for over 30 years and is the former La Crosse Education Association president. Van Orden has been in Congress for two terms and is up for reelection this fall.
Listen live weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Find the pod on Spotify, Apple Podcast or here. Tune in on the WIZM app or on air at 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse lost another legend on Friday.
Duane Moore — a Korean War veteran, one of the founders of Rotary Lights, the 1997 Festmaster for La Crosse’s Oktoberfest and a pillar of the community — passed away peacefully with family by his side at the age of 93.
Moore’s impact was a family affair — he, his wife Jan, and their son Chuck were known as a “quintessential fest family” who “just ate, lived and breathed Oktoberfest,” Terry Cowgill, the 2019 Festmaster said.
Chuck Moore, the 2015 Maple Leaf Parade Marshal, helped us remember his dad Friday, telling stories that included how he was a giant extrovert.
“Events would happen where they couldn’t find him to go home, because he’s down the road talking to people he didn’t know and the rest of the group is in a little circle talking amongst themselves,” Chuck Moore said. “And where’s Duane? He’s off down some place nobody knows talking to some guy he’d never met before.”
Other times, Duane would be off talking but everyone knew where he was — because it was during a parade with thousands in attendance.
“And then he said, ‘Why do I have to ride on the float? I want to march out front.’ So he goes jumping off the float and he’s running down the parade route and meeting people,” Chuck recalled. “Because Duane is a very much a people person. He doesn’t want to sit on a float and wave at people, he wants to run out and say ‘Hi, how you doing?’ and shake your hand.”
Duane had a passion for community.
“He was a champion for volunteerism,” Chuck said of his dad’s philosophy in life. “And if you just go to work and go home and watch TV, you’re wasting your life. You’ve got to go out and meet people and get involved.”
Other ways Duane got involved was preserving history. While Chuck mentioned he may have wanted to get rid of Oktoberfest’s unofficial mascot, King Gambrinus, he also wanted people to know the history of the event. Duane Moore authored the book, The Fest of Times: An Ein Prosit to the 50th Anniversary of Oktoberfest U.S.A.
“He emphasized that the book is a tribute to volunteers,” Brad Quarberg, the 2016 Maple Leaf Parade Marshal and the book’s editor, said. “And he said that in a lot of communities, a lot of people do things behind the scenes, and he wanted to make sure that volunteers were recognized. And he mentioned a few, but then talked about all the volunteers he was able to work with, not only through Oktoberfest, but through a number of other kinds of community events that he was active with.”
“It shows the power of what one single person can bring to this community,” Terry Cowgill, the 2019 Festmaster, added.
Duane Moore was also one of the founders of La Crosse’s legendary Rotary Lights, which has been a pillar of the community since 1994. His passing comes just weeks after another cherished La Crosse community member, Pat Stephens, passed away.
“They were titans of our community for sure,” Cowgill said.
“It’s a sad day, another sad day, that we’re losing another community icon who was instrumental in making the La Crosse area not only beautiful at Christmas, but also the things that was with helping feed the needy in the community,” Quarberg added. “And so, just two great, great leaders for our community who will be missed greatly.”
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He’s one of multiple candidates for Wisconsin governor, and he made his second trip to the WIZM studios this past week.
Joel Brennan joined to discuss why he wants the top job in the state and how he plans to set himself apart from the other six Democratic candidates vying to take on Republican Tom Tiffany.
Brennan had stopped at La Crosse’s Parenting Place earlier in the day, so we spent a good portion of the show discussing the childcare crisis. Brennan specifically called for Wisconsin to set a "marker" similar to New Mexico's universal free childcare plan to support working families.
We also talked more of “the hits” — the core issues of healthcare, housing, affordability and education that most candidates have policy positions on.
In regards to housing, Brennan noted that Wisconsin is currently “underbuilt by about 70,000 homes,” which he says has pushed the "American dream" further away for young families.
Outside “the hits,” we discussed protecting the 2026 election and the rhetoric that ICE might be sent to intimidate at the polls. Brennan addressed those concerns, proposing an “accountability commission” to allow citizens to document and upload video of any interference at the polls.
To wrap up, we looked at Brennan's background. He recently took a leave of absence from his role as president of the Greater Milwaukee Committee to run for governor, and he leaned heavily on his executive resume.
Brennan previously served as the Secretary of the Department of Administration under Governor Tony Evers — notably during the COVID-19 pandemic — and spent 11 years as the CEO of Milwaukee’s Discovery World.
“What I have done over the last 25 years of my career is I have had executive positions where the job was about problem solving,” Brennan said, arguing that his time in the Evers cabinet prepared him to lead on “day one.”
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Laura Godden, an archivist at the UW-La Crosse Murphy Library and a member of the Historic Preservation Commission for the city, stopped in studio to talk about Emerson Elementary School possibly getting a historic designation.
The conversation comes just days after La Crosse School Superintendent expressed frustration with a second building that recently closed within the district possibly getting the historic label.
Godden talks about that process, the role of the commission and listens to Engel talk about possible reforms to the designation process.
This conversation happened just an hour before the commission met Thursday evening to discuss the Emerson designation, which was put off for 30 days. The commission did look at historic status on other buildings, as well.
Listen live weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Find the pod on Spotify, Apple Podcast or here. Tune in on the WIZM app or on air at 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When you think of what Wisconsin's best known for, the list usually starts with beer, cheese and the Packers.
According to Dr. Jim Lattis, however, there is a "Top 5" contender we often overlook: astronomy.
Lattis, the recently retired director of UW Space Place, joined to discuss why the Badger State has been a global leader in space research for over 150 years.
The conversation is a bit of a preview to an event Lattis will lead next week in Onalaska. The talk is part of the Badger Talk series at the La Crosse County Library, based on the book Chasing the Stars.
During this interview, not only does Lattis lay out why Wisconsin has led and continues to lead in astronomy, but how it all started with someone from La Crosse. UW-Madison's historic Washburn Observatory was built by La Crosse’s own Cadwallader Washburn. Lattis explains how that 19th-century foundation led to Wisconsin building one of the five original instruments for the Hubble Space Telescope.
We also discuss the "Wisconsin Idea" in action at the observatory. While the building has been technically obsolete for research since the 1950s, it remains a vital piece of public outreach, maintaining a continuous tradition of public stargazing nights that dates back to 1881.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kmart is back — on the La Crosse city council agenda.
Mac Kiel stops in the WIZM studio to help break down committee week in the city of La Crosse and that includes the Copper Rocks development — which may or may not be, at this point, better known as the old Kmart lot.
Along with rezoning, we also talk about the city selling beer and some consolidation of positions.
The Judiciary and Administrative Committee meets at 6 p.m. Tuesday (agenda here), while the Finance and Personnel Committee meets at 6 p.m. next week Thursday (agenda here).
Kiel is a former La Crosse City Council member, who is an advocate for providing the public with what is happening with city government. She also serves on multiple city boards and works with the unsheltered population.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It passed 193 bills over the past week, and now Wisconsin’s state Legislature is essentially done for the rest of 2026.
State Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle (D-Onalaska) stopped in studio Monday to help wrap our heads around what it was like in Madison during that final push, why severe migraines caused him to miss some votes, and what the retirement of Speaker Robin Vos means for the future of the state.
Doyle, who noted that he currently ranks as the most bipartisan member of the Assembly, also pulled back the curtain on the "brutal" Republican caucus infighting that finally led to the passage of Gail’s Law and postpartum Medicaid expansion. These two bills received all but one vote from the entire Assembly, yet they had been "bottled up" for a decade. He described a scene where Democrats essentially ground the session to a halt with amendments until the GOP leadership finally relented on the proposals, which boast 95% public support.
The conversation shifted to the state’s $2.5 billion budget surplus. Doyle argued that if the state is sitting on that much cash, it has simply overtaxed the public—though he admitted the "devil is in the details" when it comes to returning that money while still properly funding schools and local municipalities.
One of the more "head-scratching" pieces of legislation we hit on was the push to ban "junk food" from SNAP benefits. While the state is already looking at nearly $70 million in new administrative costs just to keep the program running under new federal rules, this bill would tack on another $6 million to build and maintain a "candy and soda database." It’s a complicated mess that creates some wild contradictions; as Doyle pointed out, the database could potentially ban a bottle of sparkling water while still allowing a dairy-filled milkshake, simply because we’re the dairy state.
Looking ahead to a post-Vos era, Doyle expressed a sense of relief. He's hopeful that the "zero-sum game" of the last ten years might finally be replaced by a more pragmatic, "get-things-done" tone under new leadership.
We wrapped up the show by tackling the ethics of "mugshot pages" on social media. Most people have seen these Facebook groups dedicated to reposting police photos, often creating a digital scarlet letter before a case even reaches court. We asked Doyle—as both a lawmaker and a lawyer—if there is a way to curb this practice, especially when it results in the public vilification of people who may be innocent or whose low-level offenses don't warrant a lifetime of social media harassment.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel, in studio to discuss the possibility of another closing school building receiving a historic designation, the prospect of building an indoor competitive pool, and he explains what the governor’s “400-year veto” means for La Crosse property taxes.
We also discussed Engel taking a new role in the National Guard as Senior Army Medical Department Branch Advisor at the Joint Force Headquarters in Madison. In that regard, we discussed what a potential deployment would look like if the U.S. went to war, and the Guard's history of helping with elections.
In terms of school district issues, Engel provided an update on last fall’s $53.5 million referendum, noting that the district will break ground on the new elementary school Monday. We also spent time on the proposal to build an indoor pool on the north side, including a working group exploring how the district and city could collaborate on the project.
In the second half of the show, we discussed Emerson Elementary School being nominated for a historic designation. The school is scheduled to close at the end of the 2026-27 school year, and the district is currently exploring future uses for the site. Engel expressed frustration with the timing of the nomination, citing the Lincoln Middle School sale as a warning for how historic status can limit developer interest. He also floated the idea that the city could come up with a more predictable process for designating buildings as historic..
Lastly, Engel explained how the “400-year veto” works after the La Crosse School Board accepted the $325 increase in per-pupil spending. He calculated the move costs district households roughly $5 a year in property taxes for a $200,000 home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio discussing the future of the north side pool and the ramifications of the most powerful Republican in Wisconsin calling it quits. We also hit on the push to legalize sports betting and the politics of passing legislation in an election year with an open seat for governor.
We began the show with WIZM’s Brad Williams, who covered a Park Board meeting the night before, where they discussed the future of the North Side Community Pool, which needs $1 million in repairs — and now may not close for good.
After that, we dive into the politics of Wisconsin state government in multiple ways, led by Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos announcing he would not run for reelection. Vos has led the Assembly the past 13 years and been in the Legislature for 22.
Along with that announcement, we look at the rush of bills suddenly moving through the Assembly, including the expansion of postpartum Medicaid coverage and Gale’s Law — two bills held up by Vos that basically passed unanimously after years of holdups.
We also break down the 'hub and spoke' sports betting proposal and the high-stakes standoff over Wisconsin's $2.5 billion budget surplus — specifically whether getting school funding / property tax relief would be part of retiring Gov. Tony Evers’ legacy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He’s free of “The Mitch Reynolds’ Ordinance.”
After a year and a half of debate and study on creating a city administrator position, it failed in council last week, and La Crosse Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey feels like he can finally move forward.
On the show, Washington-Spivey dubbed the plan “The Mitch Reynolds’ Ordinance" — it was first put out to council in September of 2024 and proceeded to get pushed back over and over until it finally landed on February’s agenda.
But the council essentially voted down the plan(s) — a position Washington-Spivey campaigned and won an election for mayor on, but also one that he admitted, a few months ago on WIZM, he hoped would fail.
We dove into where the city goes now, along with other things the mayor is doing to set a path for La Crosse’s future with strategic planning sessions, budget sessions and his fourth "Your City, Your 15" interviews.
We also discussed the expansion of the airport — and it was suggested to him that maybe they need a Culver's if airlines are going to keep coming there.
We began the show, though, recapping Gov. Tony Evers’ State of the State address. Washington-Spivey was an invited guest and got to go to what was jokingly called the “after party at the governor’s mansion.” So, of course, we had to ask him about the spread — the highlight of which was seafood and New Glarus.
Ultimately, though, a lot of the show focused on the city administrator issue, and what Washington-Spivey hopes to see going forward now that the council and government officials aren’t "hamstrung" by having to discuss the old ordinance.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Before we get into it with David Crowley, since the interview was recorded a day prior to going live on air, I start things off with a a bit of a recap / preview of our conversation, and throw a little theory of mine out there on how AI data centers going up all over the place is likened to the 2013 Tom Cruise movie, Oblivion.
As for Crowley, he stops in the studio and we discuss everything from housing challenges and budget management to Wisconsin and data centers, plus how he sets himself apart in a crowded field of candidates running for Wisconsin governor.
But, since he’s the Milwaukee County Executive, and the city of La Crosse has been in a two-year debate on hiring an administrator, we selfishly started right there — on his job and his thoughts on how that position might fit in a city like La Crosse.
From there, we got into Republicans in the state Legislature deciding to end work for the year on Feb. 19 — and what Crowley might do in this situation if he was governor right now. Would he publicly call out the early adjournment or would he be more like Giannis Antetokounmpo, and handle the situation mostly behind closed doors?
We also brought up what seems like the word of the year: affordability. Crowley talks about how a state can manage costs vs. how the feds might handle things. That got us into how housing density can reduce the property tax burden and fuel economic development.
We also spent a lot of time on data centers. Crowley balances the conversation here, defending the environment and the need for transparency while highlighting the potential for these companies to pay their way by upgrading the state's power grid and expanding broadband. The conversation digs into whether those trade-offs are worth it, especially considering the noise, the drain on resources, and the fact that these massive buildings provide very few jobs once they’re actually running.
Lastly, since he’s one of seven major Democratic candidates, along with the lone Republican running for governor, Crowley is asked what sets himself apart. He points to his "receipts" in Madison — specifically the passage of Act 12 — to show he has the executive experience to actually negotiate with a Republican Legislature. We finish the conversation by looking to the general election and his potential opponent, US House Rep. Tom Tiffany, whom Crowley characterizes as a "lapdog" for national interests.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Defend, not repeat. That’s the motto this season for the No. 1-ranked UW-La Crosse gymnastics team, as they look for back-to-back National Championships.
Coach Kasey Crawford, along with All-American juniors Paige Breckwoldt and Raina Christenson stopped in studio to talk about winning it all last year, who the best athletes are on campus, what makes their sport so tough and — again — trying to defend, not repeat winning it all.
We also hype up a matchup at 6 p.m. Friday at the La Crosse Center with No. 3-ranked UW-Whitewater, and a special appearance by Maggie Nichols — a world champion gold medalist and was the first gymnast in NCAA history to earn a "Gym Slam" by scoring a perfect 10.0 on all four individual events.
This is Crawford’s 10th season at UW-L, where she now has a title, plus three second-place and two third-place finishes nationally.
Meanwhile, Christenson is the reigning National Champion and WIAC Champion on the beam and a two-time All-American, she made history earlier this season by becoming the first Eagle since 2018 to win an individual title at an NCAA Division I meet, taking first on beam at Northern Illinois.
And Breckwoldt is a two-time All-American and a key force on vault, where she placed third at the National Championships last season. She has already proven to be a standout in 2026, recently sweeping the vault and floor exercise titles in the Eagles' victory over top-ranked UW-Oshkosh.
Since recording, UW-L went from No. 2 to the top team in the national rankings.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mac Kiel in studio recapping last week’s city council meeting, where both city administrator and what we call the “bike lanes” plan were both on the agenda.
Now, what that plan really entailed was the council making a recommendation to the Wisconsin DOT for basically a revamp of downtown La Crosse from storefront to storefront between King and La Crosse streets. We talk about the “hybrid” plan that was selected — bike lanes on only two blocks north of downtown — and how it will impact downtown.
We also discussed Pearl Street, including the farmers market moving there this upcoming season and what that area might look like as a pedestrian-only street — something we explored with economist Dr. Adam Hoffer last week.
The second half of the show was dedicated to the city administrator plan(s) that didn’t pass the two-third majority last week. Kiel explained how the original charter ordinance, that’s been on the agenda since 2024 failed 0-13, and why the new plan was the one actually considered — and why just having the plan on the agenda has hampered the council.
Kiel is a former La Crosse City Council member, who is an advocate for providing the public with what is happening with city government. She also serves on some city boards and works with the unsheltered population.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Economist Dr. Adam Hoffer in studio to discuss some wild ideas we have, a day after the La Crosse council took votes on city administrator and the “bike lanes” plan for downtown.
Hoffer, the director of excise tax policy at the Tax Foundation, helps brainstorms some new ideas for La Crosse, like turning Pearl Street and King Street into greenways — basically turning them into parks.
We also break down what’s been called the “hybrid option” for downtown La Crosse. The council is recommending that plan to the Wisconsin DOT, which is preparing to revamp downtown from storefront to storefront starting in 2030.
We end the show by breaking down the city administrator proposal, including the cost of the position, plus how the city could go about having a position like that to make government more efficient in different ways.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Assembly Rep. Jill Billings hopped on La Crosse Talk PM on Wednesday from Madison to describe what she called the most chaotic end to a legislative session of her 15-year career.
Most of the conversation centered on the volume of bills moving through committee and the frenetic pace for lawmakers, staff, and lobbyists, as Republicans have scheduled legislative work to conclude for the rest of 2026 on Feb. 19 ahead of the upcoming campaign season.
In these final days, Billings has seen three of her bills pass through committee and hopes they receive a vote from the full Legislature and reach the governor’s desk.
The bills that cleared committee were AB 1000 out of Children and Families, while AB 957 and AB 958 passed through Criminal Justice and Public Safety.
Billings is also hoping to see her Water Notification Act advance — a bill that would require the DNR to notify local health departments within seven days of discovering contaminated well water.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US Sen. Tammy Baldwin (D-Wisconsin) joins as a midnight Friday deadline looms to fund the Department of Homeland Security and rein in what she describes as "unidentified, masked, armed, untrained agents" roaming residential streets.
The negotiations come in the wake of the killing of 37-year-old Alex Pretti, a Green Bay Preble High School graduate and ICU nurse, who was fatally shot by federal agents in Minneapolis last month. Baldwin, who recently honored Pretti on the Senate floor, is calling the current federal activity "chaos" and is demanding "common sense guardrails" be added to the DHS funding bill.
Baldwin is calling on these agents to "take the masks off and put their body cams on" and stop "roving patrols" that target people who "look different."
She argues that these federal units must be held to the same "rules of engagement" and "basic rules of conduct" as local law enforcement.
The Senator also breaks down her opposition to the GOP-backed SAVE Act, labeling it an "effort on the part of this administration to intimidate voters."
Baldwin warns one part of the bill would "disenfranchise people who take their husbands' names" because their current IDs often don't match their birth certificates.
Baldwin calls the legislation "crazy the way in which they are trying to make it more difficult to vote" and says the plan has no chance of passing the Senate.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
To bike lane or not to bike lane? That’s one of the questions La Crosse's city council will answer Thursday at its monthly meeting.
If that isn't enough, the council will also vote on whether to hire a city administrator. Council President Tamra Dickinson stopped in studio to help break down the legislation and discuss some other city business.
Before getting into bike lanes and the administrator position, Dickinson gave us the rundown on recent airport news, including Thursday's upcoming confirmation of new director Lauren Koss and two new airlines launching service in La Crosse. Dickinson also talked about the La Crosse Fire Department working with Tri-State Ambulance to provide EMTs three nights a week.
After that, we dove into the city administrator decision — which involves two “charter ordinances” for a position the council has put off multiple times since September 2024. The first ordinance, created in 2024, received no recommendation from the committee last week, while a new ordinance passed through committee with a 7-0 vote.
We closed out the show discussing the Highway 53 Corridor Project, where the Wisconsin DOT will tear up downtown La Crosse down 3rd and 4th streets, storefront to storefront. There are three plans the council could recommend to the DOT: one without bike lanes, one with bike lanes down both 3rd and 4th, and a hybrid plan that features two blocks of bike lanes north of downtown.
We also talked about where the roundabout on La Crosse Street fits into that plan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From 8k to 100-miles, we covered the distance runners with UW-La Crosse national champions, Aidan and Grant Matthai, and ultramarathoner Julia Hartig in studio.
The Matthais are in the midst of trying to win back-to-back triple crowns — winning national titles in cross county, plus indoor and outdoor track. So far, the seniors have four wrapped up, as they’re in the midst of indoor season.
Meanwhile, Hartig is coming off winning La Crosse’s Hixon 50 and breaking the course record in the Midwest States 100K, as she gears up for multiple ultramarathons this spring.
On the show, we talk about the emotions leading up to winning — and losing — a national championship, what you eat before a big race and the mindset you need to run an 8K vs. a 100K.
We also talk about “The Mahthai Twins” channel on YouTube, and their recently released documentary “The Road to Repeat,” chronicling winning last fall’s cross country national title.
The origins of that channel are funny, as it didn’t start because of running and one of the most popular videos on there is “Cell Analogy - How an Animal Cell is Like a School,” from eight years ago. That video only needs about 3,000 more views to be their most popular one ever.
We also joke about being identical twins — as both the Matthais and Hartigs are just that — and how that hasn’t seemed to pay off in their running careers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Covered a lot with Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff (D-Onalaska), including the GOP-led Legislature ending its work for the year by Feb. 19.
We looked at bills butting up against that clock to legalize recreational marijuana, ban cellphones in schools, and exempt tips from taxes — thought Pfaff would like to see that coupled with raising the minimum wage.
We also discussed the situation with ICE in Wisconsin and whether the Legislature could implement regulations, such as banning agents from wearing masks.
Additionally, Pfaff talked about passing "Bubba’s Law." Bubba’s Fund recently got funding to provide defibrillators to every childcare facility in the city of La Crosse and Pfaff now wants to see the $1 million initiative expanded statewide.
Pfaff acknowledged that many of the bills he’d like to see pass won’t move forward with Republicans keeping such a short legislative clock.
He also broke down why "no-brainer" legislation — like securing defibrillators for all state childcare facilities — likely won’t clear the GOP, nor will any kind of legal marijuana.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Measles is making a comeback, chicken pox hides in your brain and — once more — we discuss why vaccines don’t cause autism with immunologist Dr. Chris Mayne.
The Viterbo University biology professor joins us as Wisconsin sees its first case of measles — a University of Wisconsin student — and as outbreaks occur in ICE detention facilities and in various states — mostly amongst kids.
Mayne explains that measles is the most contagious virus known to man — there are already more cases in 2026 than in all of 2024 — how vaccine hesitancy is fueling a resurgence, and why the virus is so dangerous.
Mayne also explains how the autism-vaccine hoax began.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lame ducks and property tax breaks, Coulee Region Burger Kings breaking child labor laws, and putting a "K" in Kornfest with UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio.
Does the political scientist know the origins of the phrase lame duck? No, we had to tell him but Chergosky does explain the situation President Donald Trump and Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers are currently in as wobbly ducks, and how it affects their agendas getting passed.
Before we dive into that, though, WIZM's Brad Williams helps start the show to break down Holmen’s Kornfest being canceled and now, possibly, back on for August. Williams also talks about the La Crosse airport getting its first Allegiant Air flight from Arizona just hours before.
After that, Chergosky explains the BK child labor violations that include locations in La Crosse, Onalaska, Holmen, Sparta, Black River Falls, and Tomah.
We also discuss how these violations could be used politically in an election year, especially following recent Republican efforts to relax state child labor laws.
The second half of the show focuses on Evers and Wisconsin Republicans attempting to negotiate a plan on property tax breaks — or at least pretending to do so. That led to talks about Evers and Trump being lame ducks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Tara Johnson (D-Shelby) in studio to discuss the couple of days Republicans have scheduled for the Legislature to work this year.
The Republican majority intends to end the 2026 session by Feb. 19, meaning a slew of bills have very little time to clear the floor.
Johnson offered a bit of a civics lesson on how members try to get bills passed, how they co-sponsor colleagues’ legislation, and if any Democratic-authored proposals might actually make it to a vote. We also recap her first year in office and how she has prioritized being available to her constituents throughout the district.
Regarding legislative hurdles, Johnson highlighted some of the culture war issues Republicans are pushing — like making English the official language — while arguing that affordability should be the top priority. That led to a conversation about tax on tips and what Johnson actually thought should have been in that GOP bill.
Johnson also speculated that Republicans might try to use up the budget surplus before Democrats potentially take control of the Legislature next year.
Lastly, we touched on the governor’s race following Josh Schoemann exiting the field. That leaves Tom Tiffany as the lone major Republican in the race, while Democrats have seven candidates vying to win the August primary.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The stated goal is to “reduce recidivism,” but in talking to Colin Walsh, manager of Project Proven, it’s about more than that. The Western Technical College program works to break the cycle of incarceration by providing a clear pathway back to normalcy. For those trying to reset, it’s as much about finding a social outlet and a community as it is about earning a degree.Walsh, who spent 11 years working inside the La Crosse County Jail before taking over the program, understands that stability requires a support system.
Project Proven works across La Crosse, Monroe, Trempealeau, and Jackson counties to help people navigate everything from GED prep to college enrollment. But it’s the community side where the program really stands out. Through initiatives like the Rec Club, which organizes sober community outings, and the Leadership Group, which focuses on community advocacy, the program helps people build a new social circle. By focusing on these connections, Project Proven has helped drop the local recidivism rate to around 37% — nearly half the national average.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We get a little “old curmudgeon” with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio Friday with the cellphone ban and movie theatre talk — since we didn’t have cellphones in school and couldn’t reserve recliner seats back in the day.
We also dive into lawsuits against the major social media companies, examining claims that they’re additive and cause personal injury — litigation that could put Facebook’s Mark Zuckerberg, and other high-profile owners, on the stand.
In the Wisconsin governor’s race, we discuss President Donald Trump’s endorsement of Republican Tom Tiffany, which led Josh Schoemann to drop out — leaving just one major GOP candidate while Democrats have seven in the running. We also explore whether endorsements actually help and if Gov. Tony Evers will weigh in.
In regards to Wisconsin government, last session, Gov. Evers did sign a cellphone ban, but as the Legislature races to Feb. 19 to be done with its work for all of 2026, one of the bills is to ban cellphones from “bell to bell.” So, we talk about how that might affect students, how it takes away local control and if lawmakers and parents now — vs. 10 years from now — might see a cellphone ban very differently, having grown up without one in school.
Regarding our cellphone ban conversation, as the Legislature races to a Feb. 19 deadline to be done for the rest of 2026, we dissect a new proposal. While Gov. Evers previously signed a limited cellphone ban, this new bill aims to take them out of students’ hands from “bell to bell.” We analyze how cellphones affect students, the loss of local control and how perspectives on phone bans could change between generations — lawmakers 10 years from now wouldn’t know life without a cellphone.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board president Deb Suchla in studio discussing naming the new elementary school, what to do with the old buildings in the district, plus the district's unique intra-city rivalry and the “400-year veto” of taking $325 in per pupil funding.
With the demolition of the 125-year-old Hogan building now underway, Suchla outlines the timeline and process to naming the elementary school that will eventually house Emerson and Spence students.
The process starts with community surveys in February, with a goal to have the name, mascot, and colors finalized by this summer. That process could also cover State Road Elementary, which is going through renovations.
Suchla explains that with Hintgen students moving to that site this fall, the board wants to find a name that represents both merging student bodies so it feels like a unified school rather than one group just moving into another's building.
The district is looking for names that are neutral and inclusive, with a specific policy against naming buildings after living people.
Looking further ahead, Suchla discusses the district's long-term roadmap on both building consolidation and potential upgrades, as a referendum retires in 2033. This includes weighing options for aging middle schools built in the 1930s and modernizing high school spaces, like science labs and technical arts shops, to keep the district competitive for area families.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A week ahead of the La Crosse common council voting on creating a city administrator position, there’s dueling legislation on the matter.
City Council member Aron Newberry stopped in studio to discuss his separate proposal for creating the position. Also joining the conversation is Mac Kiel, helping break down that role, plus what’s happening in city government throughout February.
The city admin position has been a topic of study and discussion within La Crosse government for about two years now.
Newberry presents his charter ordinance proposal as a more simplified version versus the one the council put on the February agenda last spring.
With Kiel, aside from the city admin debate, we talk about the airport landing United Airlines and how the council next week will vote to confirm Lauren Koss as the official airport director.
We also discuss the Wisconsin DOT’s hybrid plan for downtown La Crosse, which is currently going through committee.
Lastly, Kiel brings up two other items: the Feb. 5 Executive Committee meeting happening right before the monthly council vote — which could provide a way to publicly discuss the city admin position further — and a special strategic planning meeting happening Feb. 18.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tearing up downtown La Crosse from storefront to storefront for bike lanes, extended sidewalks, a roundabout and more is the plan. Michelle Howe, major study supervisor for the Wisconsin Department of Transportation, joins the show to help break it down, along with two other projects underway in La Crosse.
Howe, the major studies supervisor for the DOT Southwest Region, discusses their "hybrid" recommendation for the Highway 53 corridor — a compromise designed to keep all on-street parking between King and Vine streets while introducing sidewalk-level bike lanes from Vine to La Crosse Street. These would be the first sidewalk-level bike lanes ever featured on a Wisconsin state highway.
The plan also includes a new roundabout at the Highway 53-La Crosse Street intersection to serve as a traffic-calming "gateway" to downtown. With a planning horizon looking out to the year 2050, the downtown work is currently slated to begin in 2030.
Sticking with downtown, we also threw a couple of random thoughts at Howe, including the feasibility of adding EV infrastructure when everything is torn up and if the DOT has ever considered turning downtown back into two-way traffic.
Howe also provides updates on the preliminary design for the WIS 35 (George Street/Lang Drive) plan, plus the early-stage study for the Highway 16 corridor.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Missy Hughes stopped in studio on a frigid Friday to discuss her bid for Wisconsin governor.
We began by talking about her background leading the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation for six years under Gov. Tony Evers and her 17 years as general counsel for Organic Valley.
Then we got into her newly released “Unlock Wisconsin” economic plan, which proposes specific targets for housing, job training and small business creation.
Hughes notes she is the only Democratic candidate in the field who isn’t from Madison or Milwaukee and hasn’t run for office before. Drawing on Viroqua her roots and her tenure at Organic Valley, we talked about how she tries to get through to rural voters, who typically lean Republican.
Other topics included setting herself apart from the field, and GOP candidate Tom Tiffany. We also hit on the state’s estimated $4 billion budget surplus, plus what her priorities might be if she wins the governor’s race alongside a Democratic majority in the Legislature.
We ended the conversation by getting her take on data centers, which are a growing presence in Wisconsin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rivoli Theatre co-owners Clara and Jon Gelatt in studio discussing the changing landscape of movies — stemming from Matt Damon’s criticism of Netflix — a YouTuber’s horror film coming soon thanks to fan emails and how they stay relevant with community events ranging from politics to the outdoors.
One of the nice things about going to a theatre is you’re basically commanded to put your phone away. We talked about comments recently by Damon suggesting movies are now being made to be the "second screen" — dumbing down the film because people aren’t paying attention.
This led to Jon’s "research" on the ideal movie runtime. While long epics like Lord of the Rings have their place, Jon breaks down why 90 minutes is the sweet spot for both viewers and theatre owners, and why the 110-to-130 minute range is often a "cursed" era for film quality.
On the flip side, fan requests have brought YouTuber Mark Fischbach’s film Iron Lung to the Rivoli at the end of the month. We talk about that changing landscape, plus how they decided to give the go ahead on bringing a YouTuber’s film to the big screen.
Before that happens, Jon will host another Cult Movie Night on Saturday — if you want to get out of the house, despite the cold — featuring a 16-year-old Tom Cruise in Legend (1985) and a 36-year-old Arnold Schwarzenegger in Conan the Destroyer (1984).
Beyond these unique ways to get people to the theatre, we also previewed the upcoming La Crosse Adventure Film (LAF) event and post-viewed the Civics and Cinema discussion.
LAF happens Feb. 6 — a free event thanks to the Beer By Bike Brigade, B.L.A.C.K. and ORA Trails. It is at capacity, but check with LAF to get on the wait list — featuring multiple short films about the outdoors, including one about, coincidentally enough, Greenland.
We also recapped the Civics and Cinema series that happened earlier this week, where they watched The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance. The viewing was followed by a civics conversation led by Sam Scinta and Rick Kyte as part of the Rebuilding American Civics series with Viterbo’s D.B. Reinhart Institute.
Lastly, we talked about the perks of owning a theatre — 2 a.m. movies all to yourself, unlimited popcorn, Christmas gatherings or playing MarioKart on the big screen.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-Oshkosh's Dr. Mike Ford, Director of the Whitburn Center of Governance and Policy Research, joins to break down everything "city administrator," ahead of next month's council vote on creating the position.
Ford explains why La Crosse is currently in the minority among Wisconsin cities of its size and addresses the growing "nationalization" of local politics.
We dive into where Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey and the city council are at in the process of making a decision, plus some of the lead up to getting here.
We also look at the true cost of a $250,000 salary, and why Ford warns against "reinventing the wheel" when it comes to the city’s charter ordinance.
Last week, Washington-Spivey said he hopes next month's vote on creating the city admin position fails, so La Crosse can do more study on crafting the position — the ordinance the city is putting forward is over a decade old.
Additionally, Ford explains how professional leadership can actually increase democratic accountability rather than dilute it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle in studio on the Legislature’s earliest adjournment in history, his priorities in this last month of work for 2026, the state’s $4 billion surplus, and a package of bills on elderly care he hopes will pass.
We began the show with Republicans, who control the Legislature, hoping to be done legislating for 2026 on Feb. 19 — which Doyle points out is the earliest it’s ever been done. Doyle also lists the priorities he feels need to be done this year, but won’t happen in less than a month’s time. One that may though, is an $800 million budget funding gap created when the Trump administration changed the rules six months after the budget was signed.
We also discussed WISEye — Wisconsin’s version of C-Span — no longer recording meetings, plus how Republicans are banning the public from recording meetings as well. There was also talk about what to do with the $4 billion budget surplus, and how the Legislature could negotiate to change the public school funding model, after Gov. Tony Evers 400-year veto from two budgets ago.
Lastly, Doyle broke down a package of bills from his work as the Vice-Chair of the Speaker's Task Force on Elder Services. Those bills included helping paramedics programs, guardrails on fraud and simplifying Medicaid applications.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio talking the big names headed to La Crosse as campaign season begins, when is it OK not to tip, the La Crosse mayor trying to sway the council on the city administrator plan, and what Wisconsin's state Legislature is attempting to cram into the two months it's going to work this year.
We began the show with comments made this week on WIZM by La Crosse Mayor Shaundel Washington-Spivey that he wants the city administrator plan to fail in next month's council vote. We discussed the sway a mayor has over council opinion's and how a La Crosse Chamber event highlighted how different cities need different kinds of administrators.
After that, we hit on Pete Buttigieg holding a town hall in La Crosse, getting an update from WIZM's Kevin Millard at the event. Then we debated whether this is a "shadow campaign" for a 2028 presidential run, and how La Crosse will likely be a landing spot for the biggest names leading into the 2026 midterms.
The second half of the show focused on the Wisconsin state Legislature, which has effectively banned recording its public meetings — unless you're media — even as it rushes to pass bills in less than two months. Earlier this week on WIZM, state Rep. Jill Billings (D-La Crosse) said Republicans, who control the Legislature, want to be done for the year by February.
One of the bills we discussed was to eliminate tax on tips, which led to a conversation about "tip fatigue." Chergosky cited Dave Ramsey's rules for tipping, and we debated when you should and shouldn't tip.
The last thing we talked about was another bill in Wisconsin that would mandate 60 minutes of recess for grades K-6 — a big jump from the current 30-minute standard.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Carolyn Colleen joins to discuss Viterbo's 21st annual Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day community celebration coming up Monday. Not only do we dive into the event, highlighted by keynote speaker Rev. Adam Russell Taylor, and events running from morning until night, but Colleen also discusses the happenings on Tuesday, when 1,000 seventh graders descend on the university to learn. The conversation explores how these events aim to inspire the next generation through the history of the Civil Rights Movement.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A month away from a vote on a city administrator, La Crosse’s mayor doesn’t support the specific plan currently on the table. Shaundel Washington-Spivey stopped in studio Thursday for La Crosse Talk PM and discussed why he’s not for this iteration of a city administrator.
We also talked about the Wisconsin DOT’s new design for bike lanes and a roundabout on 3rd and 4th streets downtown, the mayor’s trip to Harvard last month, plus the situation with ICE in Minneapolis and the conversations he’s having if they end up here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ahead of his visit to the city Saturday, Brewers manager Pat Murphy joined to discuss coaching — football and basketball — Bob Uecker and, of course, pocket pancakes. Murphy will be the La Crosse Loggers special guest Saturday for their winter BBQ at the La Crosse Center, appropriately themed “An Evening with Pat Murphy.” On the show, we dove deep on pocket pancakes, if he'd rather coach the Packers or Brewers and what he learned from Bob Uecker.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin State Rep. Jill Billings in studio to discuss how Republicans in control of the Legislature aim to wrap up their work for the year by the end of February.
Billings also addressed the recent funding loss for WisconsinEye — a state version of C-SPAN — which has left only the media as the source of video for committee and floor sessions. This comes as the GOP begins enforcing an old rule barring the public from recording these meetings.
We also dive into Billings' Water Quality Notification Act. She explains her decade-long effort to mandate that the DNR alert local health departments within seven days of finding PFAS "forever chemicals," nitrates or other contaminants in area drinking water. We talk of the bill's significant bipartisan momentum and whether leadership will allow a floor vote before the session ends.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A roundabout and bike lanes in downtown La Crosse, ending “prayer” before council meetings, and cutting judges’ terms to save tax money. Those are the big topics we discussed with Mac Kiel on Monday’s La Crosse Talk PM.
Ending council invocations
After that, we talked about the council voting 9-4 to end “invocations,” which is basically prayer before meetings. Mac, a former council member, shared her perspective on how these moments can feel non-inclusive to those not practicing the faith being represented. The debate compared these religious moments to the council’s moment of silence for the Ho-Chunk people, which serves as a factual historical reminder of the land's history.
The "magical" hybrid bike lanes plan for downtown
Recapping last week’s council meeting, the Wisconsin DOT came prepared for a vote on them coming up with another alternative to the Downtown Corridor Study. The old plans were basically either protected bike lanes down one side of 3rd and 4th streets downtown and losing half the on-street parking, or extending the sidewalks and keeping parking.
But, we discuss the DOT’s new plan, which basically creates the best of all worlds — sidewalk-level bike lanes, keeping the parking, and adding a roundabout at the La Crosse Street-3rd/4th street intersection. This option would only lose roughly seven parking spots, while connecting the 2nd Street cycle track to Vine Street.
Judicial terms and consolidation
Lastly, we discussed how changing a municipal judge’s term from four to two years — which the council also approved — will save taxpayer dollars. By aligning La Crosse’s judicial cycle with the City of Onalaska, the two cities can explore consolidating into a single municipal judge in two years. This would reduce overhead and caseload costs by sharing one judge between both municipalities.
Kiel is a former La Crosse City Council member, who is an advocate for providing the public with what is happening with city government. She also serves on some city boards and works with the unsheltered population.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From governments holding invocations — like prayers before meetings — to the best and worst first-date topics, we covered it all with University of Wisconsin-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky.
The conversation comes as the La Crosse City Council voted Thursday to end invocations before meetings. WIZM’s Brad Williams helped open the show with his own rendition of an invocation, before breaking down that council decision and the local history surrounding the practice.
We somehow wove the invocation conversation into a talk about first-date topics, as Chergosky shared a story about studying up for the show at a coffee shop only to overhear a couple talking about the exact same thing — religion.
Chergosky also shared how his students ended up interested in the topic for an entirely different reason, almost by accident. During one of his classes on Congress, his students gravitated to the opening of Senate and House meetings with a prayer, leading to four distinct types of reactions.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Seven-time log rolling world champion, Livi Pappadopoulos, stopped in studio to talk about how ending up alone balancing on a log in the water can be an amazing third space.
All week, La Crosse Talk PM has focused on third spaces — so not home, not work, but that third space where you can be social or feel part of the community.
As the director of Coulee Region Log Rolling, Pappadopoulos talked about her start in the sport being far less than phenomenal. She first bugged her dad to let her try it at the YMCA when she was 8 years old, admitting she was "bad" at first and could only stay on for a couple of seconds. She also got a certain radio talk show host to try the sport and, like the world champ, he too was bad at first — but time will tell how much worse he can get.
Pappadopoulos' career, though, proves that with work, it can become a lifelong passion. That passion has been passed down, too. Pappadopoulos has a bit of a protegee, in fellow Holmen native Iny Anderson. While the 22-year-old Pappadopoulos is ranked No. 1 in the world, 17-year-old Anderson is right behind her, ranked second. We talked about their rivalry, plus the only female to ever beat Pappadopoulos in a sanctioned event, Ellie Davenport, back in 2019.
Another big topic was the history of the sport, which Pappadopoulos knew all about. She explained how a dangerous 19th-century job became a modern sport built on core strength and balance. While it originated with lumberjacks risking their lives on "river drives," it has evolved into a safe, accessible community activity at the La Crosse YMCA and at Coulee Region Log Rolling events in the area.
To get involved, new winter sessions at the La Crosse YMCA begin Jan. 18. Pappadopoulos will be there to help and perhaps be ready for the La Crosse Open on June 20 at Pettibone this summer.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Amanda Worman Holmgaard stopped in studio to talk about how The Good Fight Community Center in La Crosse is a third space for kids.
La Crosse Talk PM has focused this first week of the new year on third spaces — so not home, not work, but that third space where you can be social or feel part of the community.
Worman Holmgaard, the executive director at The Good Fight, tells us how the center isn’t simply boxing. It’s a place for mentoring and education, where they’re holistically supporting kids ages 10-18.
While the "sweet science" is a hook for many, Worman Holmgaard explains that boxing is used as a vessel to teach discipline, resilience and self-control. She said for some of the kids, they may come from at-risk or low-socioeconomic backgrounds, and The Good Fight serves as a "home away from home."
The center, which is celebrating its 10th anniversary this August, offers much more than a gym. Worman Holmgaard talks about how the 6,800-square-foot space has a game room with foosball and gaming computers, an art area, and a lounge, where meals are served daily. She said they also focus on education as a pillar of the program, including using a "March Madness" academic incentive competition, tutoring, and the "Becoming" program, which helps 8th graders transition into high school.
We also discussed the logistics for parents, including their robust subsidy program that ensures the $25 monthly fee is never a barrier for a child.
Worman Holmgaard noted that while they see more boys than girls, the program is open to everyone — and you don't even need to bring your own gear to get started, or even need to come for boxing at all.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jennifer Hyer, co-owner of Root Down Yoga, joined to talk about her business as a third space.
The first week of the new year, with the weather the way it is and people looking toward their resolutions, La Crosse Talk PM focused on third spaces — so not home, not work, but a place you go for community, to be social.
So Hyer talks about the different ways Root Down, and yoga in general, can be that third space.
Hyer said Root Down is geared for all skill levels — or people with no yoga experience at all. Plus, there are beginner’s classes, including at 10 a.m. Saturday and Sunday this weekend (schedule here).
Beyond the classes themselves, though, Hyer talked about the other activities — like book club, or hiking excursions — that help make Root Down a more immersive third space.
They first class is free and they do offer an introductory membership. Learn more at the Root Down Yoga website.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kylie Wiltgen, the senior fitness and wellness director, joined to talk about the the La Crosse Area YMCAs as a third space.
La Crosse Talk PM has focused the first week of the new year on third spaces — so not home, not work, but that place you go for community, to be social.
Wiltgen notes that the YMCA is for everyone and almost literally has every age covered from infants to a 99-year-old member.
She talks about what the YMCA provides third spaces for youth, adults and seniors, how there are 150 classes each week to members for free.
On the seniors side, Wiltgen discusses their Forever Well Programs, including “Tech Tuesday” and “Wise Wednesday” and how they also do field trips — though they’re not all piling into a Y van for that, yet.
On the youth side, there’s everything from STEM and music classes to log rolling and e-sports to regular sports.
And, for adults, there are open gyms and pickup games for basketball, volleyball and pickleball — plus childcare.
Wiltgen also notes the La Crosse Area YMCAs do provide financial assistance for those who need it. That program is called Membership for All.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin governor candidate and state Sen. Kelda Roys stopped in studio, and we got into discussions on minimum wage, the GOP argument over Tony Evers 400-year "property tax increase "vs. public school funding, and what to do with AI data centers.
Before that, however, since we're doing shows all week about third spaces, that's where I began. For those who don't know, a third space would be — not home, not work, but where else you can go to be social, be part of a community.
And, once we brought Roys on, we asked about her third spaces, and if — or how — the state might prioritize making third spaces more available.
In the last segment, Roys talks about Venezuela, the Trump administration, the "anniversary" of the insurrection and what she would do as governor in dealing with federal government issues.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Protein chips, fiber-fortified popcorn, the Midwest "meat and potatoes" trap — those are just some of the topics we discussed with Laura Birkel, a registered dietitian at Emplify Health.
Birkel is also 23 weeks pregnant, so we had to ask her what a dietitian does with those weird food cravings.
Other topics discussed on the show included a rapid-fire segment on how good or bad these items are for you: coffee, milk, wine, soda, probiotics, and cooking oils.
We also dug into the difference between whole foods and ultra-processed items, like why those frozen french fries aren't the same as the potatoes from your garden.
Birkell also shared some strategies — not just with our own diets — but how to help get a loved one to eat better. I shared with her a story on how my dad loves corn, biscuits, and potatoes, thinking these things are healthy since he did grow them in the garden (well, not the biscuits).
Lastly, we talked AI and meal tracking apps and how those can be utilized to help people with their diets without becoming overly self-critical.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Third spaces are an ever-growing need for communities, and Jake Erickson leads an organization that’s providing these spaces for kids across La Crosse County.
Erickson, the CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse, stopped in studio to talk about how their facilities serve as these unique social hubs — but also how they prepare youth for their "second spaces," like school and future careers.
With a reach of 5,000 kids a year and 1,000 daily across Holmen, Onalaska, West Salem, and La Crosse, the organization is entering a landmark 60th year.
And the biggest thing to happen during this anniversary is the upcoming opening of the 16,000-square-foot Workforce Readiness Center, which Erickson describes as a transformative space designed to help kids from middle school to their early 20s prepare for life across multiple career fields. The center is set to fully open this spring.
Beyond the new facility, Erickson discussed the structured and extensive programming that defines the B&G Clubs — running from comprehensive sports leagues to creative art and music initiatives.
To learn more or get involved, visit the Boys and Girls Club website at bgclax.org.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We recap the most popular genres at the La Crosse Library in 2025, the most checked out books, whether paper can keep up with eBooks and more with the library's Lindsay Schmitt and Bill Ives.
While thrillers remain the most popular genre overall because they are "fast and satisfying," Schmitt said, the single most checked-out book — for the second consecutive year — was Kristin Hannah’s historical fiction novel, The Women.
The La Crosse Library's top 5 most popular books of 2025 were:
- The Women by Kristin Hannah
- Great, Big, Beautiful Life by Emily Henry
- Spirit Crossing by William Kent Krueger
- Nightshade by Michael Connelly
- The Tenant by Freida McFadden
The episode also explored the rise of "genre-blending," including the popularity of "cozy fantasy" and the "romantasy" trend — which Bill jokingly referred to as "fairy smut".
Of the surprising things we learned, like how library staff have no required reading list, Schmitt also noted that eBooks are not even close to more popular than print. People are checking out the real thing three to four times more than digital in La Crosse.
Getting into another digital style, Ives settled the debate on whether listening to audiobooks is considered "reading." He noted that while it doesn't utilize the same eye muscles, scientific studies show that listening to a story activates the same parts of the brain as physical reading—particularly the areas responsible for imagination and processing oral storytelling.
Other topics discussed were some of the not-so-traditional things the library does, like checking out chainsaws, and how both kids and adults can utilize the library as a "third space" with all kinds of different programming.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Small business owner Adam Murphy joins to discuss issues surrounding A.I. that often go overlooked, what to expect from the Wisconsin state legislature in 2026 and how YouTube has replaced traditional mentors.
The conversation began with the rise of A.I. "slop" videos, plus the technology's potential benefits for healthcare — as well as manual labor jobs like plumber or electrician. Murphy also discussed how A.I. may affect tech businesses, like his own company, Big Bang LLC.
Turning to politics, we looked at a long interview with Assembly Speaker Robin Vos. Murphy shared his perspective on marijuana legalization — which Vos indicated won’t be addressed — along with proposals to end taxes on tips and overtime.
We also deconstructed the GOP argument that “Gov. Tony Evers increased property taxes for 400 years,” contrasting that claim with the reality of state funding for public schools.
Finally, we discussed the shift in how we approach projects around the house. We explored the idea that YouTube has effectively replaced our fathers and mentors when it comes to DIY tasks —a change that brings both good and bad consequences, like trying to fix a leaky sink by going to YouTube rather than calling your dad.
Murphy is the owner of a small business in Wisconsin called Big Bang LLC, he also ran for US Senate for the Democrats in Wisconsin, and holds degrees in economics and political science.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mac Kiel is back in studio to preview committee and council week in La Crosse.
The holidays pack all the big meetings into one week, highlighted by discussions on deregulating little free food pantries, asking for new proposals for a downtown bike lane and parking plan, and tackling homelessness as the community marks the two-year anniversary of Pathways Home.
Kiel talks about her experience working with the homeless, as both La Crosse’s city council and county board — and the community — can attend a Pathways Home update at 6 p.m. Monday in the County Administrative Center.
Before that, we discuss how both committees will meet next Tuesday, with Judiciary and Administration starting at 4 p.m. and Finance and Personnel following at 6 p.m., before the full city council will take those recommendations to its 6 p.m. Thursday meeting.
We also talked about how the major zoning code overhaul affects the area, including the La Crosse River Marsh seeking a 500-foot “buffer zone,” plus a proposal to end council invocations, which Kiel explains.
The biggest topic, however, was the little free food pantries and the "Community Fridge" idea — allowing refrigerators as part of that plan.
We end the show with a quick talk on the council asking the Wisconsin DOT to develop alternative plans for 3rd and 4th streets downtown, which could include protected bike lanes or bigger sidewalks.
We note that the DOT has held 19 public meetings since 2024 on the Downtown Corridor Study and presented proposals to the council, which were apparently not good enough. The council postponed voting on those proposals for 90 days, ending next month.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio with his Top 5 Wisconsin politics topics of 2025.
From the governor’s race to controversy around judges to the state budget and the government shutdown, Chergosky dissects what he saw as the biggest stories in Wisconsin politics.
Along with that, we also talk about whether or not people believe Santa Claus is a Republican or Democrat and at what age do kids stop believing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tacking the complaints and myths about bicycles, bike lanes and parking with Andrew Ericson in studio for La Crosse Talk PM.
Ericson sits on the city of La Crosse’s Bicycle-Pedestrian Committee, the MTU Board and the Climate Action Steering Committee.
Some of those complaints we discuss include bicyclists not obeying traffic laws, needing to pay for their own infrastructure and why they should just ride on the road.
We also get into some of the bike lane plans in La Crosse, as the city council has proposals in January’s meetings in regards to the Wisconsin DOT plans for 3rd and 4th street downtown.
In relation to that, we also talk about parking, as a lot of complaints about bike lanes through downtown La Crosse takes away on street parking.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ken Cooper in studio for La Crosse Talk PM to participate in the Festivus tradition, the Airing of Grievances, in celebration of the holiday.
For those who don't know, Festivus is a holiday from Seinfeld, created by Frank Costanza — George's dad — as an alternative to the commercialism of Christmas.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio to discuss his New Year’s resolutions for the state Legislature, the debate over property taxes, strategies to address healthcare costs and his outlook for 2026.
We started the show, though, with a bit of Christmas spirit, asking Pfaff when his kids first figured out the truth about Santa Claus.
After that, we dived into the debate over the rise in property taxes and Republicans targeting a provision put in the budget 2.5 years ago, where Gov. Tony Evers used his veto pen to extend $325 in per-pupil funding to school districts for 400 years if they choose. That argument comes, though, as the GOP-controlled Legislature provided no increase in school aid in the latest budget, signed last July.
Building on that, we also talked about a bill by State Rep. Ryan Clancy that would make Wisconsin the first state to shift away from a property tax funding model for K-12 schools.
We also discussed some of Pfaff’s bills aimed at lowering rising healthcare costs, including a $35 cap on insulin in Wisconsin and better drug price transparency.
Finally, we got his outlook for 2026 — a year where the Legislature is only in session for 17 days between January and March, before taking the rest of the year off to campaign.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Tara Johnson stopped in studio to recap her first year in office, and explain to us the phrase bill-jacking.
Johnson (D-Shelby) also tells a couple of stories — one on what she saw as a useless education bill and another on how a near-unanimous, bipartisan postpartum care bill was stalled by one man, Robin Vos.
Other things we hit on included how Johnson would like the Legislature to be more organized when voting on bills — not fly through 50 in one day with minimal public debate — and if Wisconsin Democrats should get into the gerrymandering fight, if they control all of government.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A fun show brainstorming a new beverage to commemorate the 94-year-old Lansing bridge explosion, and recapping the 2025 words of the year with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky.
WIZM News Director Kevin Millard shared his experience watching the bridge blow, and we cold-called Todd Wiedenhaft, owner of Skeleton Crew Brew, to see if he could craft a "Blown Bridge Beer." Wiedenhaft didn't skip a beat, pitching an incredible idea.
In between, we reviewed Merriam-Webster’s top words of 2025. Some seemed controversial as actual words, like "six seven" and "touch grass," while we got into the politics over some others, such as "gerrymander" and "slop."
Lastly, we briefly looked at the 2025 most-searched topics on Google for the La Crosse-Eau Claire area to see what local residents were actually curious about as the year comes to a close.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mac Kiel in studio with the latest update on La Crosse hiring a city administrator and the recent conversations around that, plus the sale of the Charmant to billionaire Diane Hendricks and what that might mean for downtown.
We discuss city administrator a couple different times during the show, first talking about the council structure — plus Kiel geeking out on seating charts — and the idea of adding amendments to the city administrator legislation. Later in the show we talk about the city council working group studying the administrator position and presenting that info to the council.
With the Charmant sale to Hendricks, we talk a bit about her work revitalizing the her hometown, Beloit, Wis., and what that might mean for La Crosse. We also talk about the building being in a TIF district and how a sale like that goes through, after the city put money up front to help renovate the building.
Other things we hit on included the La Crosse Queen getting a 20-year contract, the airport needing a new director and adding Allegiant Air and — again — needing to regionalize assets the city owns, like the airport and the La Crosse Center.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rivoli co-owner Jonathan Gelatt in studio talking holiday movies, theatre etiquette, and some of the unique events they’re having this month, including the hit YouTubers, Found Footage Fest.
The Wisconsin-born comedy duo behind Found Footage Fest will bring their best VHS finds for a live comedy show, beginning at 7 p.m. Saturday. The duo boasts over 160,000 subscribers on YouTube.
On the show, we get Gelatt’s take on whether Gremlins and Edward Scissorhands — now playing at the Rivoli — count as Christmas movies. We also get his review of Dutch, a 1991 “Thanksgiving movie,” featuring Ed O’Neil of Married with Children and finally, Modern Family fame.
We also talk about how Gelatt — despite owning a theatre — has never seen It’s A Wonderful Life, but that will change with a free showing at the Riv at 5:30 p.m. Thursday. Gelatt will be there to watch it for the first time.
On the show he explains why what's widely thought of as the top Christmas movie of all time initially bombed at the box office and the real reasoning behind the movie’s lasting popularity. Have we all been dupped into loving this movie?
The theatre is also hosting a holiday kids ' party featuring Santa Claus and the movie The Muppet Christmas Carol, beginning at 11 a.m. Saturday.
Gelatt talks about some of the unique comedy behind the movie, and how critics say it’s the closest movie rendition to the Charles Dickens’ book.
Other things we got from Gelatt were the best places to sit at the Rivoli, plus their new membership club and unique food options. We also hit on some movie theatre etiquette, like talking during the previews.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Citizen Action of Wisconsin executive director Robert Kraig joins to discuss how the state should handle data centers and energy costs. We also talk healthcare at both the state and federal level, and Wisconsin's gerrymandered US House maps, as there are two lawsuits pending seeking to change them.
We began the show, though, since Citizen Action is based in Milwaukee, discussing the Bucks potential trade of Giannis Antetokounmpo and the Brewers talk of getting rid of ace pitcher Freddy Peralta — using “small market” as the excuse.
Next we dive into healthcare. At the state level, we talk about a recent report showing Wisconsin teachers spending 20% of their salaries on healthcare. Federally, we hit on the US Senate voting down both the extension of ACA subsidies and a GOP plan that would have let people buy into high-deductible bronze or catastrophic plans and receive a direct deposit of up to $1,000 into a Health Savings Account to cover out-of-pocket costs.
In the second half of the show, we deep dive on data centers in Wisconsin and how the state should handle their massive energy consumption with more solar power. We also talk about how there’s literally rules against residents creating solar farms and no incentive for power companies to create more solar because it’s not profitable.
Lastly, we talk about Wisconsin’s gerrymandered US House maps, as two lawsuits go through the courts that could upend the current lines.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We're back on La Crosse Talk PM with UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky, who helps us take a deep dive into civics vs. politics.
Before we get to that, we had to reset after nearly a year away from the Friday slot. The last PM show we did, Chergosky was ironically trying to start a cheese curd war between Kwik Trip and Culver’s.
After that, we discuss the top Google trending stories of 2025, ranging from the Epstein files to a new Pope and the Charlie Kirk murder.
Then we take a deep dive into civics education as Chergosky explains the Wisconsin requirements to graduate from high school and we watch a certain talk show host fail the questions.
We also talk about the difference between civics and politics and how education can further build knowledge on how government works.
Lastly, we hit on the Wisconsin governor's race. Joel Brennan has become the eighth Democrat to enter the field, pushing the total number of candidates to replace Tony Evers into double digits.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The UW-La Crosse men’s basketball team has opened the season right where it left off last year, when it set a school record with 25 wins and got to the Elite Eight for the first time ever.
Now, coach JT Gritzmacher has his team ranked No. 3 in the nation and off to a 7-0 start. Gritzmacher joined La Crosse Talk PM to talk about the hot start, hype up his shooting guard Sam Grieger — who's is averaging 24.6 points. But, we also got into some other topics, like should UW-L build a new gym, should the Bucks trade Giannis Antetokounmpo and why he used the letter O for the names of all his children.
Gritzmacher is in his third year at UW-L. Their next games are Dec. 19-20 at the Wisconsin Dells Invite. They’re not back home again until Jan. 3
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Board chair Tina Tryggestad in studio, discussing a slew of topics, including the cost to plow snow, having the fifth-lowest tax levy, regionalizing assets, funding the SMRT bus and updates to the Hillview Healthcare Center.
We also talked about county board elections across Wisconsin. La Crosse County has 30 seats — always up for election every two years.Tryggestad talks about gathering signatures and what candidates must do to run or — for those already on the board — declare they’re not running.
In regards to taxes, we hit on the topic a couple different ways. With the 2026 budget recently passing, La Crosse County holds the fifth-lowest tax levy in the state. We worked that into a conversation about what’s on a tax bill and how the area could lower the tax burden — by regionalizing assets. Tryggestad talked about how Western Technical College is taxed through 11 counties, but we don’t do that for things like the airport or the La Crosse Center — entities owned by the city.
In the midst of a snowstorm, we also discussed the cost of plowing snow. County figures determine it costs $3,000-$4,000 per hour for the snowplows to run. The county has 26 of those and 440 miles of roads to cover — or uncover.
Other topics included the county board figuring out a way to fund the SMRT bus another year and the Hillview Healthcare Center getting its first residents for the transitional housing units called Park Lane Studios.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
City Council President Tamra Dickinson in studio as La Crosse Talk PM returns from about a year hiatus.
On the show we discuss a crazy amount of things, including one of the two parks reopening, the Charmant sale needing council approval, the search for an airport director and bringing in Allegiant Airlines. We also hit on the old Kmart lot development status, the DOT bike lanes plan for downtown, hiring a city administrator and closing the north side pool.
Dickinson also gives an update on getting new ADA compliant bathrooms installed at Badger Hickey Park on the north side.
In regards to the parks reopening, Dickinson explained how it was a soft opening, with Burns Park first, then Cameron Park in maybe a few months. Both have been closed since early September.
Dickinson also talked about the details with Allegiant Air coming to the La Crosse airport, plus Lauren Koss being the interim director and how long the search will be for a permanent one.
In terms of things coming before the council, Dickinson talked about the development group needing to rework its proposal on the old Kmart lot, as well as the working group studying the city administrator position getting set to present to the council at a special meeting at 5 p.m. Thursday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio discussing optics of the Trump-Zelenskyy Oval Office meeting, media bias and why Republicans are now shying away from public town halls.
Plus, Chergosky reignites the #CurdWar between Kwik Trip and Culvers, and we chatted quick about the end of Skype, when the video service should be ruling the world.
We began the show by delving into media bias, highlighting billionaire Jeff Bezos's recent overhaul of The Washington Post's opinion section to prioritize "personal liberties" and "free markets," which led to the resignation of opinion editor David Shipley. This move has sparked significant debate about media handling of the Trump administration.
Our conversation then shifted to the peculiar televised meeting between Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President Donald Trump, VP JD Vance, and the media. We analyzed the unusual dynamics of the event, including whether anyone emerged favorably from the encounter including the journalist who blew his question asking Zelenskyy about not wearing a suit).
This led us to examine why Republicans, including House Speaker Mike Johnson, are retreating from holding public town halls, claiming paid actors are attending to voice complaints. Chergosky noted that Democrats held a similar stance around 2009 during Obama's tenure and the Tea Party movement.
We wrapped up the show saying farewell to Skype and wondering how it managed to fumble what should have been an easy win as the pandemic moved everyone to video calls. Once the only name in that realm, Skype somehow let Zoom take over — when, really, it should have been ruling the world of virtual meetings.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, may have just sparked Wisconsin’s fiercest food fight — the Great Curds War between Kwik Trip and Culver’s.
We kicked off Friday's show with this critical debate and circled back often. Chergosky took a firm stance on who has the best cheese curds based on some changes in the Kwik Trip kitchens.
In the spirit of ranking Wisconsin favorites, we also discussed La Crosse-area businesses that made Forbes Top 100 list for customer service, including Kwik Trip, Chick-fil-A, Barnes & Noble, The UPS Store, Five Below, Texas Roadhouse, and the soon-to-arrive Raising Cane’s.
From there, we tackled the La Crosse mayor race between Shaundel Washington-Spivey and Chris Kahlow.
A big chunk of the conversation centered on the city administrator position, which was a continuation of Thursday's conversation with Dr. John Kovari.
Chergosky discussed whether the position could bring out single-issue voters, how the candidates have (or haven’t) taken a firm stance on city administrator, and why it doesn’t really have political ideologies — unlike everything else these days (even cursive in Wisconsin, for some reason).
We also briefly covered the La Crosse School Board race, featuring six candidates, and broke down Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers’ state budget address. Is it a legacy budget? A reelection budget?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-L political science and public administration professor, Dr. John Kovari, joins in-studio to dissect everything from the city administrator's role in lowering La Crosse taxes to working Oompa Loompas into a conversation about TIFs — which might explain why his TIF book is orange.
Kovari breaks down TIF (Tax Increment Financing) districts, how La Crosse uses them, and why they're on the spring ballot for both mayor and city council.
Oh, and speaking of TIFs, Kovari literally wrote the book on them — Tax Increment Financing: A Practical Guide for Analyzing TIF Risks, Benefits, and Outcomes (available here). He is yet to set up a Pearl Street Books signing.
Beyond TIFs, we dig into the pros and cons of La Crosse potentially hiring a city administrator, which is also on the ballot. Part of that conversation included whether the position could help lower taxes.
Finally, we discuss regionalizing assets, like the La Crosse Center and the La Crosse Regional Airport and how that, too, could reduce the burden on city taxpayers.
Basically, the whole show toyed with the one big question: How do we lower taxes in La Crosse so people actually want to move here?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, joins on Valentine's Day, so of course we discuss those chalk hearts. We also got into voter turnout in Tuesday's primary with the mayor race being on the ballot, plus is Tim Walz going to run for US Senate in Minnesota?
Began the show, though, with Valentine's Day, whether those candy hearts are even good and what ever happened to those candy cigarettes. Later in the show, we negotiate a babysitting hourly rate to watch Chergosky's 2 year old.
After that, we hit on voter turnout in Wisconsin's primary election, which comes to conclusion Tuesday and how that could be all over the place. Onalaska has one thing on the ballot, while La Crosse has its mayor and school board.
After that, news that 66-year-old US Sen. Tina Smith isn't running for reelection in Minnesota and if Gov. Tim Walz would put himself in that race. That led to a few conversations, including if governor or senator is a tougher job and if governor or mayor is more difficult. We also talked about how political parties might handle having a primary in those races and if that's better or worse in terms of winning the overall election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in the WIZM studio Friday for La Crosse Talk PM, breaking down the mayor debate, while also discussing what you wish you knew before moving to the area and creating fake social media profiles.
Less than 12 hours after WIZM hosted the four candidates for La Crosse mayor, Chergosky, along with WIZM’s Brad Williams, spent a good portion of the show covering different aspects of the forum, including the mic drop answer from one candidate and some of the other key questions.
We also hit the La Crosse Reddit question of the day: What do you wish you'd known before moving to La Crosse?
The third thing we covered was the controversy of public officials making fake social media profiles to either bash opponents or policy, or talk themselves up, as a story out of Oshkosh shows two school board members doing just that. It’s also something that’s happened in the area, when the Holmen School Board president did something similar.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On Feb. 6, the four candidates running for La Crosse mayor took part in a forum hosted by WIZM at the UW-La Crosse Student Union. Shaundel Washington-Spivey, Vicki Markussen, Ellie McLoone and Chris Kahlow are looking to push through the primary and on to the spring election. Voting in the primary ends Feb. 18, when the field will be cut to two.
Here's the rundown of questions:
3:24 - Opening statements
10:22 - Question 1: Allyson Fergot (WKBT) — What's your opinion of the Pathways Home project and what would you do as mayor to make it a success?
15:18: Question 2: Brad Williams (WIZM) — How do you see the ideal role of a city administrator who would work alongside and where do you stand on the idea if one is hired?
20:18: Question 3: Chandler Brindley (WXOW) — How do you continue to ensure a safe level of drinking water for the city of La Crosse?
24:40: Question 4: Hope Kirwan (WPR) — In what ways can the city best support La Crosse Schools?
29:53: Question 5: Todd Krysiak (Tribune) — Do you believe there's a need for the city to focus infrastructure updates on a specific type of infrastructure in upcoming budgets and, if so, what type needs the most attention?
34:56: Question 6: Fergot — As mayor what would you to build 200 new housing units a year to keep up with demand, while keeping prices affordable for residents.
40:44: Question 7: Williams — How do you plan to work with the surround communities and could you point to a program where you'd like to see more cooperation?
45:14: Question 8: Brindley — What are your thoughts on charging for a city amenity , like the new $25 a year to use the yard waste site?
49:59: Question 9: Kirwan — Should La Crosse Police be involved in immigration enforcement, assisting federal immigration officers?
52:28: Question 10: Krysiak — How would you hold city department heads accountable to meet your goals for the city, especially since at this time La Crosse does not have a city administrator?
56:22: Closing statements
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-L political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in the WIZM studio for La Crosse Talk discussing the worthwhile and worthless bill lawmakers propose, like banning cellphones in school in Wisconsin and putting Donald Trump on Mt. Rushmore.
We went down a rabbit hole on that latter idea, while I came up with a better proposal — putting Trump on the $1 million bill. That, in a way, actually, already happened, but it did lead to a deep dive on the idea.
After that, we got into a more substantive discussion on Wisconsin legislators proposing a school cellphone ban and how this is an example of big government doing something good versus leaving it to small governments, like school boards, to be the arbiter of such things.
After that, other proposals by Republicans in the Legislature, including requiring schools to display “in god we trust,” what flags get to be flown, no tax on tips, return to work requirements and curbing the governor’s veto powers.
Began the show, though talking about the Super Bowl halftime show with Kendrick Lamar and how that’s triggered 17 Louisiana Republicans worried something might happen.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County and 3rd US House District Democratic Party chair William Garcia in studio trying to make sense of all the chaos that surrounds President Donald Trump's first days, the Dems' involvement in local races and Goonies turns 40 this year.
Started and ended the show with Trump's first 10 days in office. We began with his administration's strategy of overwhelming with chaos. The impossibility of anyone or anything trying to keep track of what's going on. We ended with DEI. Trump blamed just about everything, including DEI, on the nearly 70 dead from an Army Blackhawk helicopter crashing into a passenger jet.
In between that, we hit on some of the past and present legislative policies in Wisconsin, including Gov. Tony Evers lowering the standard on lead in water to help replace pipes, as well as the state allowing free tax filing. We also hit on how funding for reading, PFAS and emergency rooms couldn't get passed in the last two years, despite being in that budet.
Then we got into the La Crosse mayor forum coming at 6 p.m. Feb. 6 at the UW-La Crosse Student Union, plus how the La Crosse County Democratic Party is involved in local elections, like mayor, school board and city council.
After that, we paused a bit to chat about our other passion: sci-fi. A new Spiderman series dropped on Disney, but we also talked about the latest Star Wars show Skeleton Crew, as Garcia compared it to Goonies — which actually turns 40 this year.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio as we kickoff the show breaking news that a La Crosse mayor primary debate is coming, plus the news of a media group laying off or firing local meteorologists.
Began the show talking about WIZM hosting an upcoming La Crosse mayor debate between Ellie McLoone (who will be on La Crosse Talk at 7 a.m. Wednesday), Chris Kahlow, Shaundel Washington-Spivey and Vicki Markussen (who was on La Crosse Talk last week Monday).
After that, we discussed Allen Media perhaps backtracking on laying off meteorologists, including in La Crosse, after public outcry. We also conjured up a strange scenario in what could be their plan to replace weather people with some Weather Channel intern in Atlanta, and what that might look like. Lastly, we simply asked the question, "Do we need local meteorologists?" We can access the weather any time, plus there are nearly a dozen employees at the National Weather Service La Crosse, up on the bluff.
After that, more weather news, as a meteorologist in Milwaukee was fired for expressing their opinion on their personal social media site of Elon Musk's "Nazi-like salute."
Lastly, we talked about a "Captain Obvious" statement from the Walgreens CEO, who said people buy less stuff when it's locked behind glass cases.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in the WIZM studio Friday for La Crosse Talk PM, despite it being Quitters Day. We discuss what that is, along with a slew of other things:
- How businesses use amenities to guilt us into shopping
- The controversies around Facebook/X/TikTok hoarding our data and looming TikTok ban
- Is this newest Kwik Trip in La Crosse the Taj Mahal of KTs?
- The genius of Wisconsin’s GOP on the April ballot
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Subscribe to the show on Apple Podcasts here, Spotify here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Katie Kotlowski, the two-time National Champion with the No. 1-ranked University of Wisconsin women’s hockey team, joined La Crosse Talk PM on Thursday.
The senior defensive player, who calls La Crosse her hometown, talks about playing on the ice on Wrigley Field last weekend, how she got started in hockey at the Green Island Ice Arena and what she does off the ice through volunteering.
Plus, you know, winning titles in 2021 and 2023, losing in the championship 1-0 last season, and who’s better: Badgers hockey or Wisconsin volleyball?
Kotlowski has started for the Badgers since she was a freshman. The Badgers (20-1-1) are ranked No. 1 in the nation and it’s not even close.
We start out talking about playing that game at Wrigley against No. 2 Ohio State, and also get into how she’s an advocate for mental health and what it’s like playing all five years on a team that always has national championship expectations.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He’s the man behind the eats on Abe’s Raves, Abram Dyke, stopped in the WIZM studio to talk everything food in La Crosse. What the area’s doing well, what it needs to work on and why he started the page.
How he got started is a pretty heart-warming story of helping struggling businesses.
We also hit on what La Crosse does well for dining out, and what it’s missing.
This conversation was a clash of two pallets. Dyke is a little more — or a lot more — cultured than this WIZM host, but he played along nicely, diving into things like the area’s best burger, pizza and fried chicken.
Since eating food for a living isn’t quite his thing yet, Dyke works full-time as an ICU nurse so, of course, we had to go after hospital food a bit — though he points out that food is made for a lot of people in little time.
Also, if you didn’t get enough of Dyke, he coincidentally will be the guest on Coulee Region Cooks at 10 a.m. Thursday on WIZM.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in the WIZM studio Friday for La Crosse Talk PM, predicting the Top 2025 stories for both La Crosse and Wisconsin.
This conversation went back and forth, as we did a bit of a dive on each topic, including the La Crosse mayor's race and adding ranked-choice voting, plus school referendums and when to put those on the ballot, and lastly the top story potentially dealing with the Green Bay Packers.
We also got Chergosky's Top 5 storyline predictions for 2025 and the revelation that his 2-year-old daughter likes crusts on her PB&Js.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Instead of having Pam Starcher stop in at WIZM, we took La Crosse Talk PM to her, and discussed how to make yoga a New Year's resolution, right from her studio at The Yoga Place at Fifth and Main streets, downtown.
Stacher has been the owner for a decade but The Yoga Place has been there nearly 40 years and was La Crosse's first-ever yoga studio.
For those who want to try and make yoga their thing in 2025, Starcher has a beginner series for eight Monday's from 4-5 p.m. beginning Jan. 6.
So, we talk about her approach to yoga, how to make that a resolution you can keep and the way she makes yoga inclusive for people of all abilities.
We hit on how how athletes could benefit from yoga, and how a lot of people wish they would have gotten into it sooner.
We also talked a bit about the studio itself, its location in City Square and how that was the old Herberger's, when all the big box stores used to be downtown.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
WIZM's Brad Williams in studio to recap La Crosse's biggest topics of 2024 from the porn scandal at UW-La Crosse to Donald Trump and Kamala Harris campaigns in town and capped off by development in the area.
A week ago, we broke down the Top 25 most viewed stories on the WIZM News website, but this conversation is about Williams Top 3 story categories, which was led off with the UW-La Crosse saga involving fired chancellor Joe Gow and the aftermath of Board of Regents learning he has sex with his wife on camera and with adult film stars that makes its way to the internet.
After that, we talk about all the presidential campaigns that barnstormed through La Crosse right up until the day before the election, plus the local political headlines, like the mayor not seeking reelection or not having enough candidates running for La Crosse School Board.
The last topic to top off 2024 was all the development that happened — or didn't — in La Crosse, including the Macy's getting torn down for more parking, another Starbucks, a Raising Canes, a Panda Express and a carwash. Plus, every Shopko in the area was converted into something, while the old Kmart is still standing and when that might be coming down. And things that didn't happen, like the Kmart getting demolished or Costco going up near downtown.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The owner of Pearl Street Books, Beth Hartung, and La Crescent’s public library director, Jess Witkins, stopped in the WIZM studio to discuss, what else, books, including the best of 2024, book bans, reading as a New Year’s resolution, and what’s changed in popularity over the year and years.
This is part of a series of La Crosse Talk PMs about New Year’s resolutions, as we discussed a couple of different strategies to help get you reading more — and how to stick with it.
We also talked about a shift in popular genres over the years — including to fantasy to horror to unsolved murders — plus what’s been most popular in 2024 and what is a must read this year, and ever.
We discussed book bans, how Wisconsin and Minnesota have handled those and making sense of why they happen.
Other things we hit on included buying used and the two instances when you should buy new, plus reading physical books versus a digital copy.
Hartung has owned Pearl Street Books downtown for three years, and talked about some of the events she’s been holding there to make the store more inclusive and a third space. Witkins has been with the library systems eight years and talks about programs they have and what’s been popular to the public there, lately.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Claire and Phillip Mitchell kickoff a La Crosse Talk PM series on health, as the new year approaches and we all start thinking about resolutions.
The two own Mitchell Holistic Health in Onalaska, a clinic that tackles health issues in various ways, from physical therapy to functional medicine to life coaching.
The Mitchells are headed into their fifth year at the clinic, and we talked about their origins stories, that hovered around Claire’s health battles, and led to Phillip deep diving into those issues.
All that sort of sprouted the clinic, where Claire as a nutritionist and Phillip a physical therapist, plus the rest of the team, can address people’s needs in ways that regular clinics won’t look at.
A lot of the conversation hovers around what they describe as functional medicine and how your body can be inflamed — not like the inflammation that comes from a sprained ankle — and the three-tiered way they help people overcome their issues.
We also discuss the kind of people their clinic is for — whether that’s someone with a sports injury or people with everyday chronic pain — and what it takes to get them healthy and, perhaps just as important, keep them on track in what could be a lifestyle change. Afterall, this is a new year's resolution show, and most of that battle is sticking with the plan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two conversations about homelessness on Monday's La Crosse Talk PM with city council members Chris Woodard and Mac Kiel.
La Crosse’s two big committees meet next week Thursday, Woodard discusses a resolution he’s authored that — simply put — requests the state and federal government’s help in addressing homelessness.
After that, Kiel joins to talk about the warming shelters being full and how the council’s “camping ban” has affected the homeless. Plus, we discussed the need for a surge shelter and how that should have coincided with something like a camping ban. She also broke down the city’s policy on using the Main Street library as an emergency shelter.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in the WIZM studio Friday for La Crosse Talk PM, discussing whether Santa is a Democrat or a Republican, how old is too old to believe, is Elon Musk or Donald Trump the president, and will the next two years of the Wisconsin state Legislature be less productive than the last.
Began the show with a caller complaining about alternate-side parking rules, after she received a $0 ticket, and using police to hand out tickets when they have better things to do.
After that, we talk of the news that the US House could only fund the government again for a few months. It kicked the can down the road to now the next Congress to fund the government. One of the funding bills that didn’t pass was the House — whose members make $174,000 a year — giving itself a pay raise. We recap how this Congress has been the least productive in modern history, especially in the House. That debacle began with a historic record 13 votes to make Kevin McCarthy the Speaker, kicking him out, and not ever passing a government funding bill or a farm bill.
After that, we quickly hit on a new La Crosse mayoral candidate has filed to run, bringing that total to four to replace Mayor Mitch Reynolds.
Then, from an unproductive Congress to just how productive will Wisconsin’s state Legislature be with new voting districts, a state Supreme Court race that could turn that upside down and a governor’s race at the end of the term.
Part of that conversation was about how the Legislature was unable to do much with a multi-billion-dollar state surplus to pass any meaningful legislation on PFAS, rural hospitals, marijuana legalization, childcare or the state’s 175-year-old abortion ban.
After that, we went back to Congress, and the future of now-Speaker Mike Johnson, and whether Musk or Trump is running the country, after Musk tweeted to kill the first US House government funding bill.
Finally, we discuss a couple of YouGov polls in regards to whether Santa Claus is a Democrat or Republican and how old is too old to believe in the big guy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Central High School teacher John Havlicek in studio discussing, in his over 30 years, how kids have changed because of cellphones. We also hit on the $4.5 billion state surplus, as Gov. Tony Evers was in La Crosse on the budget, and how school funding leads to better student outcomes.
We started, though, with Havlicek teaching Spanish and how or whether that’s changed of his three decades.
After that, we got into the state’s $4.5 billion budget surplus, how Gov. Evers was in town for a budget listening session and Havlicek’s takes for attending.
At the midway point, we got into school funding — as voters in the La Crosse School District just passed a $53.5 million referendum to build and upgrade elementary schools — and how much the voucher school system costs taxpayers and the district.
We then got into healthcare for just a bit, before discussing a listener question on how more money means better students — or better student outcomes.
And that led into a conversation about how kids have changed in Havlicek’s time in schools with the evolution of cellphones and the negative impact they have on things as simple as interacting with each other.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A giant mix of politics and holidays on Friday’s La Crosse Talk PM with UW-L political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, that included why the mayor isn’t running for reelection, ending the tradition of buying Christmas presents and politicians, off the last nine months, telling workers to return to the office.
Began the show, though, on Donald Trump winning the Time Person of the Year — a list that didn’t include Joe Biden. Plus, how Trump runs on prices are too high and in the very same Person of the Year article, Trump said of grocery prices, “It’s hard to bring things down once they’re up.”
We then weaved that into why La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds isn’t seeking reelection. And, as there are still only three on the list, could he get back in the race?
We bring that up, too, in discussing how anyone running for the spring election needs to announce now. The deadline is Jan. 7, but the window to get your name out there could close Feb. 20 — the last day of primary voting.
After that, speaking of running for reelection, does Rebecca Cooke need to get into the 2026 race for US House in the 3rd District against Derrick Van Orden now?
About halfway through the show, we completely changed gears and talked about if families should stop buying Christmas presents for each other, because it becomes just a “tell the other what to get” exchange.
We then highlighted the past two Yesterday In La Crosse articles, featuring when the Valley View Mall was essentially downtown La Crosse and how much Mt. La Crosse cost in 1959 — as it is the ski hill’s 65th year.
Ended the show with a bit about the cold and walking through La Crosse’s Rotary Lights in Riverside Park and capped it all off on how Wisconsin state Assembly Speaker Robin Vos says workers need to return to the office. And that’s coming from a guy who hasn’t worked since March, as the Wisconsin state Legislature is out of session for the last nine months of 2024.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Chi Chi’s making a comeback, local news is not and the time is now to announce a run for La Crosse mayor — all things we broke down on Friday’s La Crosse Talk PM with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky.
We began the show picking WIZM News reporter Brad Williams’ brain about that mayoral election — up to three candidates now — and when the Chi Chi’s closed in La Crosse. The Mexican restaurant is making a comeback.
After that, we got into a deep dive on local journalism as WXOW axed a lot of its staff earlier in the week, and how important hometown media is when it comes to local elections — like mayor, city council and school referendums.
That conversation also included how there are three candidates for La Crosse mayor (Shaundel Spivey, Ellie McLoone and Vicki Markussen), four years after there were 10. And there really isn’t much time to announce, as the deadline to file is Jan. 7 but the primary to cut the field to two is Feb. 20.
Ended the show first chatting about Williams’ awesome Yesterday in La Crosse article on the history of downtown La Crosse shopping, where Sears, JCPenny, Herberger’s and Montgomery Ward were all located.
Then we quickly hit on the TikTok ban moving forward in the U.S.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A lot covered with Adam Hoffer, including how much taxpayers would be on the hook if the Badgers fired their football coach, how much Wisconsin loses by not legalizing vices like sports betting and weed, plus Chi Chi’s is coming back and Kmart is almost gone.
Hoffer is the director of excise tax policy at the Tax Foundation in La Crosse.
The first thing we tackled is how much of the $40 million owed to Badgers football coach Luke Fickell would be put on the taxpayer if he were fired?
Along with the legalizing vices conversation, we also inadvertently made Hoffer a La Crosse School Board candidate, while discussing the recently passed $53.5 million elementary school referendum plan.
Began the show, though, ranting about a bunch of different things from fun to dystopian, including
- the last Kmart closing
- Chi Chi’s coming back
- a special animal up for adoption from the Coulee Region Humane
- United Health’s CEO murdered on same day another insurer wants to limit anesthesia
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Assistant Police Chief Jason Melby joined to talk about guns, mostly in reference to the city’s first-ever mass shooting, plus a bit about the parking situation downtown. We also, of course, had to work in some Thanksgiving themes, too.
Spent most of the show talking about guns, using the Deandrew Grant case as an example. Grant is responsible for La Crosse’s only mass shooting. Last year, he drove the wrong way down Third Street, downtown, and opened fire hitting seven people. He was sentenced to over 30 years in prison.
But the conversation with Melby hovered around the gun. And not just in this case, but guns in general. Grant was a felon who should not have had a gun. So, we talk about how these guns are obtained, how are they traced back to the person that had them before and what should the penalty be, not just for people like Grant, but also those who sell guns to people who shouldn’t have them.
After that, we made the smooth transition to parking. The police are in charge of La Crosse’s parking utility and the city is in a tough spot because it still owes a lot of money for parking ramps and Melby explains how the pandemic completely flipped the model the city had to repay that debt through things like parking permits.
Melby has been with the La Crosse Police Department his entire 32 years in law enforcement. We began the show discussing why he got into this career, in which he tells a story that describes just that.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke joins to breakdown the city’s first-ever mass shooting — a drive-by, downtown — tracking the origin of the gun in those incidents, plus 1,000 felonies in 2024 and the politicization of positions like the one he holds.
We began the show discussing an initiative Gruenke is going to bring back called the Citizen Prosecutors Academy, where people can learn more about his position, why they make the decisions that they do and better understand everything that happens after a crime is committed.
After that (7:50), we got into the politics of positions like district attorney and other local elections, and whether those positions should be nonpartisan or even consolidated to cover more regions. Some of that conversation revolved around how it’s not a very coveted job, where 90% of the elections go without an opponent.
The second half of the show (19:25), we began with a bit more on the Prosecutor Academy, before getting into La Crosse County hitting 1,000 felonies for the year (23:20) and what most of those consist of. Plus, how first-time drug offenders are heavily penalized when, perhaps that is too severe.
Then we discussed La Crosse’s only mass shooting (27:20), where Deandrew Grant was sentenced recently to 32 years in prison. Grant drove the wrong way down 3rd Street, in downtown La Crosse, and opened fire, hitting seven people. Gruenke discusses his disbelief that the shooting wasn’t more publicized.
Gruenke was also asked about the gun in that situation, and where Grant could have gotten it — as there are no laws that would trace it back to who sold it to him. Plus, how police might want better laws surrounding guns, so they aren’t on edge for every vehicle they pull over, worried that person might shoot them.
Another aspect of the drive-by mass shooting was the victims, and just how someone who has hospital bills from being shot is compensated.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Bri Spicer, Lifestyle Program Director at the La Crosse Area YMCAs, in the WIZM studio Wednesday for La Crosse Talk PM to discuss a diabetes prevention program she’s overseeing and shame news talk hosts into getting checked out. #Sarcasm. #Kindof
The La Crosse YMCA’s National Diabetes Prevention program is for those who have pre-diabetes. Spicer talks about who that is, how you would find that out and all the things that surround being part of the program.
We talk about the mental and physical aspects of preventing diabetes, including stress and what Spicer called positive self talk. We also hit on some of the more easily known factors, including nutrition — plus reading food labels — as well as sleep and activity — though we did stump Spicer on sleep OR activity.
Spicer said around 50% of people are pre-diabetic.
Spicer also talked about a quick quiz to see how at risk for diabetes, which we had her filibuster during the show, while I took the 1 minute test.
To find out more about her program at the La Crosse Area YMCAs, click here.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political scientist, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio discussing the billions Wisconsin taxpayers agreed to pay for schools, Donald Trump's "outrageous" cabinet, going viral on Wheel of Fortune, The Onion buys Infowars and words that were born the year you were.
Began the show with news of President-elect's cabinet, like Matt Gaetz for Attorney General, for example, and why this makes headlines now, but didn't four years ago, when Joe Biden was coming into office.
Then we got into the Time Traveler on Webster's (8:30), where you can see what words were born in each year — dating back to before the 12th Century, before talking about The Onion buying Infowars, the outlandish media venture of Alex Jones.
Back to some politics, we hit on Republicans reelecting Robin Vos as Assembly Speaker in Wisconsin (20:35), despite his feuding with Trump. Then we talked how the state set a record for tax money to schools (23:30), and if residents are starting to get referendum fatigue, plus will that start to show in the state Legislature. The education secretary has requested a record for school spending for the upcoming budget.
Lastly, Ryan Seacrest's first viral clip on Wheel of Fortune, how he blew it and what you should be doing on the gameshow if you want to actually win money.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Board chair Tina Tryggestad in studio fresh off a five-hour 2025 budget meeting the night before, so of course that was a focus of the conversation that also included homelessness and renaming facilities.
We also got a bit of a civics lesson from Tryggestad in how the board gets to a final budget meeting, plus some budget details, including how American Rescue Plan Act funding is incorporated and granting certain funding requests from area groups.
We also discussed the Pathways Home plan, which is a five-year plan to end homelessness and we got into some of the details of the Hillview Healthcare Center, which Tryggestad says is not going to be renamed by selling out to a corporate sponsor — something brought up for no reason whatsoever.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings in studio fresh off an election win, where she holds onto her District 95 seat. On the show we look at some of the numbers and how she did in a voting district that had new boundaries, plus what to expect from the state Legislature over the next two years. Billings points out there's a state Supreme Court race on the ballot just months from now, which could turn the state upside down in terms of voting. We also talk about some priorities going forward, when the Legislature reconvenes next year.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio to help dissect the fall election cycle, where we came to the conclusion that every level of government was its own unique situation. From Wisconsin's state Assembly and Senate races to the US House and Senate, to the presidency. Before that, however, La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds may have come up with a great name for a band, as he showed some discontent with the Judiciary and Administration Committee on the idea of creating a working group for a city administrator position.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A day after the election, Democrats Steve Doyle and Tara Johnson, who both won on Tuesday, stopped in studio to discuss whether the new makeup of Wisconsin's state Legislature means things getting done over the next two years. Doyle won by 217 votes in Assembly District 94, while Johnson is the first Democrat to win in the 96th District since 1985. Also talked about was the money in politics, how Republican leadership framed losses in the Legislature and how to go about tackling issues this upcoming term, including the $4.7 billion budget surplus, school funding, childcare and more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County and 3rd Congressional Democratic Party chair, William Garcia, in studio, working in sci-fi and politics as the fall election cycle comes to an end.
Garcia was a good sport to come on and have a conversation that would remain relevant, even after Election Day is over, so there’s not a ton of predictions going on here but we do talk about impact and philosophy a bit — including Darth Vader, Dark Helmet and other sketchy leadership.
So, of course, that meant bringing up my Scarlett Johansson interview this week, where I asked her “Star Wars or Star Trek?,” and while her answer was perfect, we dissected it even more when it came to Donald Trump.
As for this election cycle, we got into Garcia’s role as a delegate, where he was one of about 4,000 who selected Kamala Harris to replace Joe Biden, plus all the big names that came to La Crosse County — from Harris and Trump to Tim Walz and Tammy Baldwin, or Bernie Sanders and Amy Klobuchar to Mark Cuban — and his experience with all of that.
Before that, though, we hit on the importance of a party controlling the US House or the US Senate and the idea of an electoral college tie.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Just hours after she left La Crosse with her husband, Gwen Walz called back into La Crosse Talk PM. The wife of Tim Walz joined to talk about education, her husband and his advocacy for women and the underprivileged. And, we did ask her if Tim's getting anxious — not because of the election stuff — but because there's no deer hunting in Washington, DC., despite the deer population thriving and the need to reduce that population.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two prominent Republicans, fed up with Donald Trump, stop in the WIZM studio Friday for La Crosse Talk PM to discuss why they’re touring the country to campaign for Kamala Harris.
Ex-Republican Lt. Gov. Geoff Duncan of Georgia and former Mike Pence national security advisor Olivia Troye deep dive into why they feel this is such a crucial time for democracy, and the Republican Party, to vote for Harris and end Trump’s run in politics.
Adding to the discussion, UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, who helps analyze the political spectrum of this election
Before starting that deep dive, though, we, of course, had to hit on Duncan’s baseball past — a standout pitcher at Georgia Tech and drafted by the Florida Marlins. We talked how he played around the same time Alex Rodriguez was with the Appleton Foxes. And we unlocked a core memory for Duncan, who used to be called “The Vulture” — as he somehow amassed 10 wins and 13 saves one season — and may now be called Vulture again, come the end of this election.
Politically, we discussed Trump flooding the media with outrageous rhetoric, and brought up two things he said just this week, including in Green Bay. At a rally there Trump said he’s going to protect all women and “I’m going to do it whether the women like it or not.”
We also discussed the “whisper caucus,” which is a group of conservatives done with the Republican Party under Trump and what that means for the future of the GOP.
In terms of National Security, we got into Trump sidling up to dictators and how the rest of the world is watching and worrying about the potential outcome of the election with a second Trump term.
And we got into empathy, one the themes from Duncan’s book, “GOP 2.0: How the 2020 Election Can Lead to a Better Way Forward for America's Conservative Party.
To wrap up (33:20), Chergosky gave his takes on the unique position that Duncan and Troye have put themselves in, going to multiple swing states, campaigning for Republicans to make that choice of Harris this election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ben Wikler, the Democratic Party of Wisconsin chair, in studio, right before he sent his kids off to either go door knocking or trick-or-treating.
On the show with Wikler (3:15), we took a top-down approach to the fall elections, starting with Kamala Harris v. Donald Trump and then moving on to the US Senate race and then state Legislature battles.
We also discussed some of the policies each race features, like Harris' proposals for first-time homebuyers, first-time parents and new small business owners. And what it would take in Congress to get those passed.
We also hit on Wisconsin's $4 billion budget surplus and what should be done with that funding. Republicans have been sitting on it for nearly two years with no negotiations between them and Democrats as to how to move that money.
Began the show talking quick about Halloween. what politicians might be the most popular this season, and if it was possible for someone to put on more bronzer than Trump.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Three guests and three different topics including the Mid-West Family, Children’s Miracle Network Hospital Radiothon raising $118,000. Plus, the La Crosse County clerk predicts a huge turnout, but now who or when we’ll have a president. And, the La Crosse teachers union co-president says more awareness is needed for the $53.5 million referendum.
Started things off with Abby Ryan, a specialist with the Children’s Miracle Network (CMN) Hospitals, talking about the Mid-West Family team-up Radiothon seeing the community bring in so much in donations, and what that money — which stays local — will go toward.
After that (5:50), Ginny Dankmeyer is the La Crosse County clerk, and she discussed what their office will be doing on election night, the matter of election security and some predictions on voter turnout and on the presidential race.
Lastly (18:35), Jesse Martinez, the La Crosse Education Association co-president, discusses the referendum to building a new elementary school at the Hogan Administrative site, and update State Road Elementary, while consolidating three other schools in the district. But, we also discussed La Crosse requesting from the state that school start earlier, and what kind of input teachers had in that school board decision.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We did the weave on Halloween and politics with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio with our traditional trick-or-treat preview. Among some of the topics was, of course, best and worst candy, but also some good poll questions surrounding the holiday:
What age is too old to trick-or-treat — and do you have to tell your kids to stop?
Have you ever dressed as a political figure for Halloween?
How often do you have nightmares after watching a horror film?
At what age should you stop dressing up for Halloween?
In the political world, we discussed the onslaught of nationally known Democrats that have descended to La Crosse and Wisconsin but, aside from Donald Trump, where are the Republicans — and who are the Republicans? We also talked quick about Elon Musk's $1 million giveaway.
And the last topic came from a caller: What happens if you vote early, but your candidate dies? It's actually happened.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jane Powell, president of the League of Women Voters of the La Crosse Area, plus voter services chair, Chris Haskell, in studio talking about all the things the League is doing to inform the public this election cycle.
We began the show, though, with La Crosse city clerk Nikki Elsen, talking about early in-person voting and how Day 1 went Tuesday.
After that (10:45), with Haskell and Powell, we started the conversation in 1920 — this radical idea of letting women vote — then moved to 2024 and how the League has evolved.
We then hit on some of the efforts specifically the La Crosse chapter has done, including the school district’s $53.5 million referendum, taking a stance on the Constitutional Amendment question and, also, how they remain nonpartisan in an ever polarized environment.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fun, informative and kind of hilarious conversation, talking science with Spencer Wilken, who thinks Earth’s new moon is clickbait but Jupiter’s favorite moon is actually news, plus why we keep seeing the Northern Lights. We also gave Wilken some homework: watch Armageddon.
Wilken is a Ph.D. student at the University of Illinois. She believes it’s big news that NASA is sending the Europa Clipper to the Jupiter moon in hopes of finding water and life. Meanwhile, in Earth’s orbit, an asteroid that really isn’t a moon — though we have spoken in the past about Earth’s actual dwarf moon.
Then we got into a conversation about the Northern Lights and stumped Wilken on the matter.
Lastly, two funny things: 1. Scientists discovering a 46,000-year-old female microscopic worm in the Siberian permafrost and bringing it back to life.
Plus, in there somewhere — perhaps about the worm — Wilken brought “Will this kill us,” but said it so fast it sounded like “Willis kill us” and brought us full circle to the movie Armageddon again, starring Bruce Willis.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board president, Dr. Juan Jimenez, in studio discussing some jaw dropping numbers to a population study, the district trying to start school earlier, based on its burden to private schools and the $53.5 million referendum.
Began the show with a bit of an overview, but quickly got into the numbers presented to the school board Monday from a population study that shows enrollment shrinking.
After that, we discussed why the school district wants to start school earlier. It’s state law to start on or after Sept. 1, but only for public schools. Those districts, however, are required to bus private school students, which often start school earlier — as they don’t have to adhere to the same laws.
Lastly, we discussed the referendum, and some of the fallout that might happen if it doesn’t pass, plus what comes next regardless of what happens — which could be dealing with the middle schools.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The one and only debate for US Senate in Wisconsin, between Democratic Sen. Tammy Baldwin and Republican challenger, Eric Hovde, took place on Oct. 18, 2024.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This is the Wisconsin state Senate District 32 debate between Sen. Brad Pfaff (D-Onalaska) and Republican challenger Stacey Klein of Trempealeau. It took place Oct. 16, 2024 at UW-La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Not long after the La Crosse Area Chamber of Commerce named Beth Davis its first female CEO since 1868, Tiffany Rice brought in studio two of their panelists for Thursday’s Women’s Leadership Summit.
Those panelists are Gundersen Medical Foundation vice president Lindsay Preston and La Crosse Community Foundation CEO Jamie Schloegel.
The summit happens from noon-4 p.m. at the UW-La Crosse Bluffs Ballroom, though there may be an even bigger woman in leadership crashing campus that same day.
On the show, we breakdown what the summit is all about and actually get into some of the topics that will be brought up to the panel, including misperceptions of women in leadership, expectations of women and finding support.
Chamber of Commerce panel at the Women's Leadership Summit
- Buffet Lunch as guests arrive.
- Intros: New CEO, Beth Franklin
- Welcome by Rep Jill Billings
- Panel of three local women (2 of them will be present at the studio)
- Dessert/Coffee Bar with Networking Time and Time to visit Exhibitors
- Keynote
- Door Prizes (provided by exhibitors)
Summit highlights:
- 20 local small women-owned businesses that will be present as exhibitors promoting their small businesses. Attendees will have time to visit with them and learn about their businesses and also enter to win door prizes.
- Keynote speaker is Gina Glover. Website: GinaConnects - Career Coach and Speaker
- Her topic is: Dial Up Your Influence: Specific Strategies that Stick:
- We all have an influence on those around us, whether we consider ourselves an influencer or not.
-
John Maxwell quipped "Leadership is influence - nothing more, nothing less." This talk delves into the specific strategies you can use to dial up your influence – with your colleagues, your customers, and your community.
-
Partnered with Downtown Mainstreet and its Taste of Downtown that evening. Tickets can be purchased for that event in combination with Women's Leadership Summit at a discounted rate.
- One table will be for seven Guests of Honor, which includes local women doing extraordinary things in the community.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Democratic Vice Presidential nominee, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz joins to discuss showing up for rural voters, getting legislation passed for working class and if he's mad Saturday Night Live got it wrong.
Began the show, though, selfishly talking quick about Winona — where I was a sports writer — and Mankato West football, where Walz coached.
Then we got into connecting with rural voters, as Walz did, when he was the US House Rep. in Minnesota's Republican-leaning 1st District, just over the Mississippi River from La Crosse.
Sandwiched in there is a quick question about SNL having comedian Jim Gaffigan playing Walz and how the skit about the Menards rebate was wrong.
We also got into some of the priorities Democrats passed the last two years in the Minnesota Legislature — free school meals, paid family leave, free college for working-class families — and if any of those could be done federally.
Lastly, Walz was asked, 'Who does fall better, Wisconsin or Minnesota?' but he side-stepped the question and offered up another nugget about his recent visit to Wisconsin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Nothing like breaking down the 2025 and 2028 elections with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, 24 days before the November election cycle ends.
We also recapped with WIZM's Brad Williams the vote by the city council not to vote on hiring a city administrator.
Lastly, highlighted some of the "Wisconsin Confessions," on Reddit, like "I don't like brats," and "Culver's cheese curds aren't good."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio discussing reelection, potential vote on city administrator, veto on Pump House request for more funding and La Crosse Center accounting change.
Spent a lot of time going over, in different ways, the upcoming, potential vote Thursday by La Crosse’s city council on hiring a city administrator position. Reynolds talked about the cost of the position versus savings it would do with city, how the 2012 referendum that voted down the proposal was an outlier and what he expects the city council to do at the meeting.
Also talked about Shaundel Washington-Spivey’s announcement to run for mayor and brought up multiple times — and almost got Reynolds to reveal — if he was seeking reelection.
Next month the 2025 budget will be finalized and one thing that may have help with that is some changes in accounting at the La Crosse Center, which Reynolds breaks down.
Lastly, we hit on his veto last month of a request from the Pump House Regional Arts Center, downtown, for more funding, which the council could override Thursday. The Pump House is a city-owned building that just did over $300,000 in renovations, but ended up asking the city for an additional $13,290.03 — which Reynolds vetoed and he explains why.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We're back! UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, back in studio to talk the $110 million of outside money in WIsconsin's US Senate race, the second TP shortage of the 2020s, Kamala Harris campaigns at the GOP's birthplace in Ripon, plus going 90 mph down Lang Drive.
Chergosky also paid a bit of a tribune to La Crosse Talk host Mike Hayes, who is battling pancreatic cancer.
We also hit on the Brewers blowing Game 3 of the wildcard to the Mets and how it's that stupid mascot Grimace's fault, as well as just being back on La Crosse Talk PM, with WIZM shuffling some in the absence of Hayes.
The two big political stories we got into included outside money in the US Senate race in Wisconsin, where $57 million is being spent on Democrat Tammy Baldwin and $53 million on Eric Hovde — on top of Baldwin spending $42 million on her own campaign, and Hovde spending $20 million.
Then we hit on Harris campaigning with Republican Liz Cheaney in Ripon, Wisconsin, where the GOP Party was birthed.
The toilet paper shortage stems from people freaking out about the longshoremen's strike, which will not be the "October surprise," as they've delayed it until January.
And, lastly, La Crosse police arrested this week a 19-year-old driving 90 mph down Lang Drive near Menards during "rush hour."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jill Schams and Jesse Martinez, the co-presidents of the La Crosse Education Association (LEA) — or the teachers’ union — in studio, discussing the district’s $53.5 million referendum on the November ballot, school funding in general and how a cellphone ban in schools has worked.
Schams is a K-5 music teacher at Southern Bluffs Elementary School, while Martinez teaches 7th grade math and social studies — and Spanish emersion — at Logan Middle School.
We began the show with a quick overview, but also getting to know Schams a bit, as she's never been on before and she teaches music, which is fascinating to some talk show hosts.
After that (8:20), we got into the La Crosse School District's $53.5 million referendum and whether LEA supports it. The overview of that plan would be to:
Create eight new classrooms and a new gym at State Road Elem.
Tear down the Hogan Administrative site.
Close Emerson and Spence elementaries and move those students to a new school, built on the Hogan Administrative site.
Close Hintgen, consolidate most of those students to State Road's school.
We also talked about school funding in general interweaved into that conversation.
Lastly (33:15), we discussed the cellphone ban that Logan MS had last year, how that went. The school, along with Logan High School have cellphone bans this year.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio discussing the possible addition of a city administrator, potential parking deregulation and getting the 2025 operating budget passed.
The city administrator (6:30) conversation kind of intertwined with the passing the 2025 operating budget, which took up most of the show. But meetings about adding the city admin position could happen as soon as next week.
We ended the show (26:45) discussing parking deregulation in the city, which had a committee meeting last week through the Neighborhood Revitalization Committee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
William Garcia, the La Crosse County and 3rd CD Democratic Party chair, in studio discussing everything from the policies of Kamala Harris, to Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz's old Sega Dreamcast to Star Wars The Acolyte being cancelled. We began the show, though, talking about whether Garcia would be continuing his duel roles with the local Democratic parties. Then we got into some of the policies surrounding Harris, before taking a break to talk about science fiction and Walz's Dreamcast. Ended the show taking some texts, which mostly hovered around the economy, "Bidenomics," and Harris.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse city council member Barb Janssen joins to discuss committee legislation Thursday to use $270,000 for cleanup and security on city property, plus why the council didn’t appoint a District 5 replacement.
Janssen, who has been on the council seven years, including serving as president, also serves on the Finance and Personnel Committee, which meets at 6 p.m. Thursday.
One of the items the F&P committee will debate is spending $270,000 for cleanup of the La Crosse River marsh, Cameron and Burns parks, plus two parking ramps. That money would also be used for added security at Burns and Cameron parks. This comes a week after La Crosse began enforcing a no camping ban on city property and performed extensive cleanup around the marsh trail area.
We also discussed the Pump House Regional Arts Center asking for additional funds of around $13,000 for renovations of the building, which is owned by the city.
Lastly, we discussed the council not voting to appoint a District 5 replacement on the council after a resignation. A replacement now won’t be voted for until the April 2025 election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio back on Aug. 26 discussing the lack of vaping legislation in the state, where are we with PFAS help, and having a debate with his opponent. The vaping discussing evolved from the La Crosse School District putting vape detectors in some bathrooms. Federal law is 21 years to buy those products, but Wisconsin's Legislature won't update state law, and it's led to vaping numbers increasing among young people. We also talked about the PFAS debate in the state, where Republicans and Democrats won't negotiate on details of releasing over $120 million in relief money — as the Town of Campbell continues to use bottled water for over three years now. And, we discussed the Donald Trump town hall, the idea of town halls versus debates and Pfaff having a debate with Republican opponent Stacey Klein.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio, and we hit on a number of things, but the best is where a presidential candidate should stop in La Crosse. If getting in and out for a rally isn't local enough, where, or what business, in the area should the candidate spend some time that people would love?
We began the show discussing some intricacies of Donald Trump's La Crosse town hall, including the ex-president not knowing it was a town hall, or who it was for, and why down-ballot Republicans weren't at all part of any of it — and barely made note of it on social media.
We got into the visiting La Crosse conversation (18:10) with what we might ask Donald Trump during the show, and how it wouldn't be about policy, it would be his thoughts on something local. That morphed into the candidates should visit the area more versus just holding a rally.
Before that, for a few, with school starting back up, Chergosky discussed (6:50) how he has some exchange students who are very curious in learning about US politics, and he has a class teaching Wisconsin politics.
Ended the show (28:30) trying to coin the phrase DINO, like Republicans have coined RINO (Republican In Name Only), and where Tulsi Gabbard and Robert F. Kennedy, Jr., fit in that world. Plus, a recent YouGov poll on the popularity of some of Kamala Harris and Trump proposals.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse began clearing the marsh trails and other city properties on Wednesday due to homeless encampments, as council members Mackenzie Mindel and Mac Kiel joined La Crosse Talk Pm to discuss some details surrounding the dilemma.
Kiel goes out weekly with the homeless outreach team and updates us, in the second half of the show (17:45), on the council’s decision earlier this month to ban camping, and dilemma now for homeless people with nowhere to go.
Both Kiel and Mindel are on the Judiciary and Administration Committee, which meets at 6 p.m. Tuesday.
We discuss some of the things on that agenda (4:10), which indirectly have to do with homelessness, including three rezoning decisions that all deal with housing — the old Lincoln Middle School, the Washburn Community garden area and the county’s Hillview Healthcare Center.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two guests on a Tuesday, included Jeff Tripp, the La Crosse airport’s new director, as he prepares for Donald Trump’s visit Thursday, plus Robbie Young, on the bike-ped committee on making the city better for bicyclists.
Tripp joined first (2:00) and we got to know a bit about his responsibilities as the La Crosse Regional Airport director, and what he’s going through, as the Secret Service gets the area ready for Trump’s town hall at the La Crosse Center.
After that (18:00), Robbie Young, on the city’s bike-pedestrian advisory committee and owner of the Coulee Bicycle Co. in Onalaska, talks a bit about how e-bikes are changing. We also discuss the difficulties bicyclists have getting from one end of town to the other, and some of the Wisconsin DOT’s plans for Third and Fourth streets downtown, which include protected bike lanes.
Began the show with a bit of an update on the Trump town hall, where doors will now open at 2 p.m., plus we learned who the moderator will be.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Covered a lot with La Crosse County Board chair Tina Tryggestad, including passing both a DEI and strategic plan, accepting bids on the Hillview Healthcare Center plus an update on the Pathways Home initiative.
Got into the board recently passing a consultant's year-long Diversity, Equity and Inclusion plan (6:10) that was pushed back a month, and morphed that conversation (14:15) into the five-year strategic plan.
In the second half of the show (18:50) we discussed the city-county Pathways Home project to endhomelessness, including its recent successes, the dilemma with the city banning overnight camping and where the plan is at now.
Ended the show (22:50) discussing the Hillview Healthcare Center, after the board accepted bids for the multi-faceted facility that will include an intergenerational care center, bridge housing, crisis beds and more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mark Abraham, better known as “Abe,” in the WIZM studio Wednesday for La Crosse Talk PM. The La Crescent High School cross country coach talked about multiple aspects of doing the job for the past 49 years — 41 as La Crescent High School's coach.
Last spring, Abraham, now 71, retired as the Lancers track and field coach but says he’ll stay on as cross country coach as long as he feels good doing it.
Abraham, who said he runs about 10-12 miles a week with the team, talks about how the sport has changed, some philosophies when it comes to coaching and what it’s like having the kids of past athletes now running through the program.
Abraham is a member of the Minnesota Cross Country Coaches Hall of Fame, the Houston High School Hall of Fame and the La Crescent Wall of Excellence.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo director of the Ethics Institute, Dr. Rick Kyte, joined to discuss his book called, "Finding Your Third Place." While the Olympics just wrapped up, this conversation we quickly learned wasn't about any bronze metal, it was more about where both children and adults find space when they're not home and not at work. In some communities, that space is dwindling. It's also a space that's gone virtual, as well, and Kyte didn't see that as a positive. The book can be found at Pearl Street Books in downtown La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Democratic state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings in studio discussing the "knocking doors" world of campaigning, Legislature still holding up funding for PFAS, childcare and more, plus will UW-La Crosse’s science center ever get built.
Began the show talking about campaigning, is it realistic to know on all the doors and if things will get nasty between Billings and her GOP opponent, Cedric Schnitzler, for the 95th District seat in the Assembly.
From there, we moved on to some of the funding for state initiatives (16:10) that have been held up by the GOP-led Joint Finance Committee on PFAS funding, hospital closure response, childcare and K-12 literacy.
We then went back to Billings new district lines (21:00), plus a bit of an overview of the Democratic National Convention.
Ended the show (31:20) discussing how Republicans have now for about six years blocked funding for phase II of UW-La Crosse's Prairie Springs Science Center, which went from $87 million to build to $187 million last year. No price on what it would cost next year yet.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio breaking down the August primary, the relatively huge turnout, Republicans losing on the constitutional amendments and Rebecca Cooke winning in the UW House race.
Began the show on voter turnout, which wasn’t huge, but also was at a 60-year high.
We then took a sidebar (9:30) from election recap, first talking about how Chergosky nearly got hit by a bicyclists on the sidewalk — across the road from the 2nd Street bike track — and what looks good to eat at the Minnesota State Fair coming up.
Next (14:40) we got back into the failed GOP constitutional amendments and if turnout had anything to do with that, and how another amendment — basically culture war nonsense from the GOP — coming on the November ballot.
Lastly (23:55), we got into the 3rd District race for US House in Wisconsin that saw Cooke kind of easily win over the two other Democrats and what the results say about moving on to face Republican Derrick Van Orden.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board president, and Western Tech associate dean, Dr. Juan Jimenez, in studio discussing new class terms at the college and the school district's $53.5 million referendum question on the November ballot.
Began the show, though, talking a bit about school getting ready to start and rule from the state that it can’t begin before Sept. 1, because the tourism industry needs child labor through the summer months, and if that rule should or could change with a different state Legislature.
Then we got into how Western Technical College (7:05) is getting set to implement, full time, new class term lengths and why it made that decision. WTC slow rolled that out over summer and is now doing seven-week- long classes full time.
Lastly (20:35), we hit on the School District of La Crosse's $53.5 million referendum question for the fall election that will do these things:
— Create eight new classrooms, new gym at State Road Elementary
— Tear down the Hogan Administrative site.
— Consolidate students from Emerson and Spence into new elementary at the Hogan site.
— Close Hintgen and consolidate those students to State Road.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A lot going on in La Crosse this weekend on both ends of the spectrum, as Jean Taylor and Josh Hertel both join to talk about two big events. First, Taylor breaks down this new two-day party called Big River Rally on Friday and Saturday at the downtown Oktoberfest grounds and beyond. Then Hertel joins to talk about Coulee Con, this gaming extravaganza, happening Friday-Sunday at the La Crosse Center.
Big River Rally features a pair of concerts — Buckcherry on Friday and Jackyl on Saturday — stunt shows, a bike show, vendors, a veterans breakfast and a pair of rides through the Coulee Region, including one featuring WKTY's Bill Michaels and Jackyl's Jesse James Dupree. For more info and tickets, click here.
And, at the La Crosse Center, the 10th annual and possibly last Coulee Con — a tabletop gaming convention that's put on by Hertel, who is also the president of Coulee Gaming Inc.
Get tickets for Coulee Con by clicking here.
One of the cool aspects that we discussed was how Hertel gets sent never-before-played games, sets up tournaments with them and the winner takes home the game, which may be one of a kind or the next big thing.
Hertel says this will be the last Coulee Con — for now.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It doesn't start off the show, but Adam Murphy and I discuss a new Microsoft data center going up in Wisconsin in the Foxconn plant area, which is going to be a major energy suck. Something that Donald Trump recently spoke about, and we all might agree with him that the government needs to do something.
Before that, though, we started off with Hunger Task Force (HTF) of La Crosse executive director Shelly Fortner on food scarcity.
Among the things we talked to Fortner about included the need for volunteers at the HTF, plus how the food bank, pantries and food programs are struggling, and might have to consolidate a bit as to not duplicate services.
The HTF is the only food bank between Madison and Rochester, distributing goods to 120 meal sites, food pantries, youth and backpack programs in the region.
After that (15:30), Murphy, who we call our political blowhard, discusses A.I., data centers and the massive amounts of energy they need to exist. But we started that interview with Donald Trump talking about this in a more simplistic fashion. Trump's comments came at a Bitcoin conference at the end of July.
Ended the show (32:40) with a quick rant on the August primary coming to an end Tuesday, and how ridiculous it is Republicans put two Wisconsin constitutional amendments on a ballot that will see a ridiculously low turnout.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cashton native Gabe Anderson in studio to tell the story of how he created his e-sports streaming company, LobbyUp!, while he was stationed overseas in the Marines.
Anderson’s streams, which feature mainly Madden and now College Football, have featured Green Bay Packers defensive end Preston Smith, former NFL quarterback Michael Vick and former Badgers running back and Super Bowl champ Corey Clement.
Anderson explains just what LobbyUp! is, how he got started and what to expect in the future, including another tournament with the Packers Smith and Mayz on the call.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in the WIZM studio Friday for La Crosse Talk PM discussing the impact of two Wisconsin constitutional amendments on Tuesday's a low voter turnout ballot, recapping the city council’s homeless ban and Snoop Dogg at the Olympics.
Diving into politics (9:00), we discussed the two constitutional amendments Republicans put on the August primary ballot, how difficult they are to interpret and how they are also hidden on the ballot.
After that, WIZM’s Brad Williams joined (22:00), a day after he covered Thursday’s city council meeting, where they voted 7-5 to essentially ban homeless people from existing on city property. We also talked about how the city’s resources are finite and some on the council have called on the state or federal government to do something about the crisis. Wisconsin’s state Legislature hasn’t passed a bill on homelessness in at least six years, according to Republican Assembly Rep. Loren Oldenburg (Viroqua).
Ended the show (35:40), where we began, talking about the Olympics. Started with the break dancing competitions and finished on how Snoop Dogg has been paid $500,000 a day to be a cheerleader at the Olympics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
She authored the bill that helped get Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz the vice presidential nomination.
Now, Minnesota state Rep. Sydney Jordan (D-Hennepin) didn’t take credit for the bill Thursday on La Crosse Talk PM, but she did tell the story of that day — Walz surrounded by students, signing the bill in Jordan's district (you can see her crying in the background), giving free school meals to students across the state, followed by fist bumps and hugs.
Jordan was asked about three weeks ago to join the show and talk about an immensely important plastics bill that she got through the Legislature and to Walz’s desk. Then something happened earlier this week that also seemed important — Walz getting the vice presidential nomination from Kamala Harris.
Along with the free school meals and plastics bill, Jordan also talks about Republicans pinning "Tampon Tim" on Walz, and how Democrats love it, because it's due to their legislation to provide free menstrual products in public school bathrooms across the state.
One other thing Jordan talked about was Minnesota Lt. Gov. Peggy Flanagan, who — if Harris and Walz win the election — would become the first Native American governor in US history and the first female governor in Minnesota. Flanagan is already is the highest-ranking Native American ever elected to office.
Jordan was elected right before 2020 during a special election and has experienced being the only state in the country with a split Legislature, before then being a part of Democrats taking full control of state government and passing incredibly dynamic legislation that has helped boost Walz’s profile for Democrats as the VP candidate.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ryan Huebsch, who's running for Wisconsin state Assembly in the 94th District, in the WIZM studio discussing the fight over PFAS legislation, his view on the two constitutional amendments on the primary ballot, why he's in the race, and how he was an infant when he attended his first political fundraiser — which was for his dad, Mike Huebsch, who was once the state rep. in District 94.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz has the "hot hand" says La Crosse Talk PM guest and "political blowhard," Adam Murphy, who joins on a veepstakes Tuesday, along with longtime MN state Rep. Gene Pelowski who, in Olympic fashion, ends the interview about Walz and Democrats with a Perfect 10 backflip.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio discussing homelessness, housing, taxes, city services and parking. After talking old cars and Olympics to begin the show, we got into how the city council has multiple special meetings on homelessness, right before Thursday's monthly meeting. To start the second half of the show (17:00) Reynolds brought up the city's pool situation and how one could potentially need to be closed. That led to a discussion about the balancing act the city council needs to maneuver between maintaining city services, increasing city revenue or raising taxes. After that (25:00), we discussed housing as a way to raise revenue, including having FEMA remap the city's floodplain. Lastly (29:50), we discussed La Crosse's parking situation, as the parking utility is running at a deficit.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio discussing "weird" Republicans, Democrats meme culture, the strategy behind a VP pick and La Crosse building Starbucks on top of Starbucks and carwashes across from carwashes. Spent most of the show talking the presidential race, memes taking over the Democratic party — Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers "brat summer" tweet — Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz starting the "weird Republicans" trend, JD Vance hates cat ladies and Chergosky's rankings for Kamala Harris' VP pick. But, ended the show (33:00) with news that more Starbucks and more carwashes are coming to La Crosse — right where there are already more than enough Starbucks and a carwash already on the way.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Eric Wilson in studio discussing why he's the Democrat in the 3rd District capable of beating Republican Derrick Van Orden. On the show, we talk about how his experience outside government makes him the best rep, including in housing and tech. We talk about the housing crisis and why it's become unaffordable to many, plus how he separates himself from Democratic opponents, Rebecca Cooke and Katrina Shankland.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A look at past and upcoming elections with Dr. Ed Miller, professor emeritus at UW-Steven Point, who began teaching in the 1960s. He brings that historical perspective to President Joe Biden dropping out of the 2024 race and Kamala Harris stepping in, similar to what happened during the Vietnam War in the 1968 election. We also look at the 3rd US House District race between Republican Derrick Van Orden and three Democrats — Rebecca Cooke, Katrina Shankland and Eric Wilson — and the US Senate race in Wisconsin between Tammy Baldwin and Eric Hovde.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County and 3rd US House District Democratic Party chair William Garcia — who is also a delegate — in the WIZM studio Friday for La Crosse Talk PM discussing the process of now making Kamala Harris the nominee, could Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz be the VP, as he defends cat ladies from Republican VP candidate JD Vance.
We also discuss what Democrats should be running on, which included how Supreme Court reform could be dangerous but abortion access is realistic.
And, in between all that, we went off on a sci-fi sidebar with talk about the Deadpool & Wolverine movie, plus book-to-screen adaptations on Dune, The Foundation and Lord of the Rings.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cedric Schnitzler, the Republican candidate for state Assembly in Wisconsin's 95th District, in studio discussing the budget surplus, public education, childcare, broadband and why his experience makes him right for the job. Schnitzler has been the Monroe County Board chair the past eight years and part of the board, on and off, since 1996. Schnitzler discusses how there's a need for the state to help communities with expanding broadband, how there should be a difference in funding capital and operating expenses in public schools, and where the state's $3.5 billion budget surplus fits into the mix. Schnitzler is running against Democratic incumbent Jill Billings in the fall election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle in studio discussing the Joe Biden departure, how governments are dealing with homelessness, the constitutional amendments on the August ballot and the Legislature's inability to talk across the isle.
We began with Republicans trying to change the state constitution, to pull decision-making power from the governor in times of emergencies. A thing the GOP didn't have a problem with when Scott Walker was governor, but he didn't go through a pandemic. So, floated Doyle the idea of defining those emergencies, which could be done in the Legislature -- and not by wordy, confusing constitutional amendments. That, however led to a conversation (10:00) about how the Legislature doesn't communicate across the aisle, let alone work together.
After that (19:20), we discussed the homeless issue in La Crosse and across the state, as Doyle is also on the La Crosse County Board.
After that, (25:00) we finished off the show diving into Biden dropping out of the presidential race and some of the talking points surrounding that, like Republicans saying he then isn't fit to be president now or that Democrats are subverting democracy by selecting his replacement, after the primary.
Doyle is a Democrat in the 94th District. Republican Ryan Huebsch is running against him.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, with a bit of an emergency, immediate reaction interview, just hours after President Joe Biden announced he is going to drop out of the 2024 presidential election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio on the whirlwind of news, including Joe Biden potentially dropping out of the presidential race, who the nominee would be and the VP, a bit on the RNC in Milwaukee and, most importantly, the weirdest, buggiest Wisconsin State Fair foods.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He's the La Crosse Talk PM political blowhard, Adam Murphy, talking about why debates aren't that great — as Democrats in Wisconsin's 3rd CD may not have one — how Ron Johnson forgot to tone it down, Democrat Bob Menendez guilty of gold bars under his mattress, and the Teamsters president speaks at the RNC in Milwaukee.
Began the show talking about the ridiculous story of US Sen. Bob Menedez being found guilty, after he was caught with $150,000 worth of gold bars and $480,000 in stacks of $100 bills.
After that, we got into debates. The 3rd US House District Democrats may not have a televised debate (they have had multiple forums throughout the district). Murphy gives his take on why debates aren't all that helpful.
After that, we get into the Republican National Convention in Milwaukee, including JD Vance as Donald Trump's running mate, and how Ron Johnson's unity speech wasn't all that unifying — even the rewritten one he forgot to give on stage. And, lastly, Murphy talks of the uniqueness of Sean O’Brien, the Teamsters president, speaking for 17 minutes at the RNC.
Murphy is a small business owner of Big Bang LLC in Milwaukee. He holds degrees in economics and political science from UW-Milwaukee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Joe Heim, professor emeritus at UW-La Crosse, in studio to discuss the politics around the Donald Trump assassination attempt, JD Vance being named the ex-president’s running mate and Joe Gow’s recommended firing at the university.
And that’s where we began, with the decision last week by a UW-L faculty committee recommending Gow be fired from his tenured faculty position. Gow was already fired as chancellor late last year, essentially for being caught producing pornographic videos with his wife and affiliating with adult film stars.
After that (7:40), Heim talks about the Trump assassination attempt in various ways, including comparing it to the 1981 Ronald Reagan assassination attempt, how the news now days is instantaneous and how this will play to the hands of both Trump and Joe Biden, as they seek reelection.
We also briefly talked about some of the conspiracy theories being floated out there, plus whether Biden could/should be replaced on the ticket.
Lastly (32:50), Heim gives the good and the bad for Trump naming Vance his running mate for the Republican Party.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tara Johnson joins to discuss the housing crisis, funding public schools and Wisconsin’s 175-year-old abortion ban, as she runs for state Assembly in the 96th District.
Began the show getting a bit of Johnson’s experience. The Democrat was the first female president of the La Crosse County Board, where she was a member for 20 years, and was executive director of the United Way in La Crosse, before retiring in 2020.
The first big issues (7:30) Johnson said she’s heard from while campaigning was the state’s 175-year-old abortion ban law, and how the Legislature, controlled by Republicans, has addressed that.
After that, we got into education funding, and how many school districts continuously have to go to referendum to help improve schools, and how the state has never come through on what’s supposed to be ⅔ funding for schools.
And, before the big break, we also hit on Republicans’ refusal for well over a decade now to expand Medicaid in the state and why Johnson sees that as a must.
In the second half of the show (19:00) we got into more of Johnson’s experience on the county board and how that might transfer to the state Legislature.
We then transitioned (24:00) to the state having a $3.5 billion budget surplus for over 2.5 years now and what the Legislature could do with that extra funding.
Lastly, Johnson brought up (28:30) affordable housing and childcare, which kind of rolled into a homelessness conversation and how all three are intertwined.
Johnson is running in a primary election against Steven Campbell of Viroqua. The voting period for that ends Aug. 13. The winner will face Republican Loren Oldenburg, who is the defacto incumbent, but the 96th District will change next year as it inherits the south side of La Crosse and becomes much less rural.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in the WIZM studio Monday for La Crosse Talk PM discussing the homeless legislation coming to city council, challenging the historic designation of the former south side library and creating a city administrator position.
We overview those topics to start the show, then begin talking (5:40) about the process of creating a city administrator position, what that role would entail and how that might change what the mayor does for La Crosse.
Began the second half of the show on the Mayor’s appeal of the Historic Preservation Commission’s decision to grant the former South Community Library historic designation. That designation came a month before the city’s Economic and Community Development Commission endorsed a housing proposal for the building.
Lastly, we discuss homelessness in multiple facets, including camping rules and having the city council be in charge of camping bans, plus what the Wisconsin state Legislature is(n’t) doing when it comes to this crisis.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Charles Franklin, the architect for the Marquette University Law School poll joined La Crosse Talk PM on Friday, along with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky.
We, of course, discuss the Joe Biden-Donald Trump debate and how the polling will play out over the coming weeks and how the latest Marquette Law poll is a perfect representation of the two presidential candidates.
We also talk about how debates have impacted the polls of the past, plus what the polling showed after Trump being convicted of 32 felonies.
The second half of the show discussion was about Wisconsin matters, including the US Senate race between Tammy Baldwin and Eric Hovde, plus public education — right in the midst of the Milwaukee public school debacle — and PFAS pollution, which state lawmakers are still fighting about.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kelly Leibold and Ethan Schumann in the studio Wednesday for La Crosse Talk PM teaching radio talk show hosts how to speak better. Or trying to, anyway. Leibold is the president of the La Crosse Area Toastmasters Club and Schumann is public relations with the group. Throughout the show, we discuss what the Toastmasters is, exactly, some of the fun things they do at the bi-weekly meetings and go through some of the things that help make a person a better speaker — including radio talk show hosts. The La Crosse Toastmasters meet the second and fourth Tuesdays in Room 430 of the La Crosse County Administrative Building downtown.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We dive into the La Crosse area housing market with Gerrard Hoeschler Realtors owner Doug Billings, realtor Ben Bockenhauer and Granite Mortgage lender Jeff Thompson in the WIZM studio Tuesday for La Crosse Talk PM.
Some of that talk included whether a housing crash is coming, is it still a sellers’ market, where people are best able to buy houses in the Coulee Region right now and what the housing stock is like.
Bockenhauer and Thompson will also be hosting a first-time homebuyers seminar at 5:30 p.m. on July 10 at the Gerrard Hoeschler offices in Onalaska. Part of that conversation will include how potential homeowners can take advantage of down payment assistance programs in the area.
Another thing we hit on included how mortgage rates are high right now, where and when they might fall and why some homeowners now aren’t selling due to those factors — plus the thought process behind that notion.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Republican state Assembly Rep. Loren Oldenburg joins to talk about the possibility of inheriting La Crosse if he wins election, homelessness, taxes, what to do with the budget surplus, marijuana, vaccines and more.
Oldenburg is the incumbent in the 96th District, which will change next year, going from mostly rural to incorporating the south side of La Crosse. And that’s where we started the show, just the philosophy of having mixed city-rural districts, whether Oldenburg will legislate differently and how he separates himself from his Democratic opponents.
Oldenburg will face the winner of the Aug. 13 primary between Democrats Tara Johnson and Steven Campbell.
With the possibility of representing La Crosse, we discussed what the state Legislature has done about homelessness, being the city has been dealing with the growing issue since the pandemic, and what ideas he might have to help solve it.
Also on the show, we discuss the $500 million in public funding to renovate the Brewers stadium, and if Oldenburg would sell the ballpark to the team for $1.
We also talked about taxes and what to do with Wisconsin’s $3.5 million budget surplus, which has been at or above that level for 2.5 years. Plus, where he stands on legalizing marijuana.
Oldenburg brought up vaccines in regards to COVID, but also others and whether they should be mandated.
Ended the show on the Wisconsin Senate’s veto overrides from a few weeks back, and why the Assembly didn’t even meet in session to take up any of the bills its counterpart passed.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio talking about, what else, the Joe Biden-Donald Trump debate, replacing Biden, the amazing timing of Bernie Sanders coming to La Crosse, the debate moderators and the need for Snoop Dogg to be more involved in all our lives — including debates.
Spent most of the show covering the multiple angles of the Biden-Trump debate, including how the right made all the excuses heading into the debate that Biden would be drugged up and Trump saying he’s a worthy opponent.
We also hit on what the moderator’s role was here, if there were flaws in the debate setup and if there will be a second debate.
Began the second half of the show (19:30) talking about the overhyped — at this point — possibility of replacing Joe Biden on the ticket and what that would take, and got into some texters who claim the fake videos of Biden wandering off were not fake and the debate proves it — though that’s also false.
Then we lightened things up (31:30) talking how Snoop Dogg is both everywhere and not in our lives enough. He threw out the first pitch at a Brewers game last week and did some play-by-play. He ran the 200 dash at the Olympic Trials and then did some more commentary. But the true place America needed him most was Thursday night, moderating the debate.
Also (35:10), we hit on a couple final topics including the importance of debates, how presidential debates don’t often matter, but this one might. How Eric Hovde and Tammy Baldwin are only holding one debate for Wisconsin's US Senate seat.
Back to the replacing Biden topic, someone texted in 25th Amendment in doing that, plus how the Republican-led US House has been clamoring to impeaching Biden since it took power, but now never would. And Bernie Sanders (27:45) is headed to La Crosse at a most peculiar time.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Stacey Klein, who is running for Wisconsin state Senate in District 32, stops in the studio to discuss healthcare and Medicaid, the billions in budget surplus, broadband and her not currently living in the district she’s running for.
Klein also talks about her roots, growing up on a farm and working now as a financial advisor in La Crosse. She highlights the need to do more like the shared revenue deal the Legislature passed a year ago, and talks about what she’s learned on the campaign trail, hitting up many municipality meetings across the district.
Klein is running against Democratic incumbent Brad Pfaff of Onalaska.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
City council members Mac Kiel and Tamara Dickinson in the WIZM studio Wednesday for La Crosse Talk PM discussing different aspects of homelessness, replacing District 5 rep., moving the aviation board and the sale of the old Fire Station No. 4.
Kiel and Dickinson are on the Judiciary and Finance Committee, as we previewed some that upcoming Tuesday meeting, including how to replace Janesea Hameister (4:40), who resigned from the council a month ago. There’s two pieces of legislation on how to replace her, including the council appointing someone and holding an April special election.
After that (13:05) we talked about the River Point District, a day after a conversation with project manager Jason Gilman was on WIZM. Part of the discussion was on the idea that Costco had shown interest in building there, but also that the 28 acres of developable land is going to be 90 percent housing.
In the second half of the show (18:00), we hit on a couple different angles of the city’s homeless issue, including the special city council meeting last week putting a three-week deadline on coming up with short-term shelter solutions. Kiel also goes out about once a week with the Homeless Outreach Team, so she talked about the work they’re doing with the Pathways Home project to end homelessness. Part of the discussion also included how the short-term demand for solutions could end up cutting into the long-term project, where it could then perpetuate the city’s homeless situation.
Lastly, we talked about the Aviation Board moving to an advisory committee and literally moving. Dickinson is the chair of that board, which also saw the city’s new airport director, Jeff Trip, take over on June 17. And, we hit on the historic Fire Station No. 4 on Gillette Street being sold to the former assistant fire chief.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jason Gilman joins to discuss where La Crosse is at with the 65-acre, $300-million River Point District development, the impact it will have on the community and what giant box store was denied access.
Gilman, who owns JBG Planning LLC, is in year two as project manager of the district he calls “The gateway to downtown.”
Gilman discusses how much of the development is housing versus business, how much of that could be rentals versus owned, plus what some of the undeveloped space will look like.
River Point District was the old Mobil Oil site, located just north of downtown La Crosse, that had set idle for decades due to various challenges, including environmental cleanup.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Steven Campbell in studio on why he is running for Assembly in Wisconsin's 96th District, which now includes the southern portion of La Crosse. The Viroqua native, who owns a shop on Main and an assisted living business, discusses healthcare related issues in regards to Medicaid and mental health. Campbell also talks about public education and the two-year anniversary of Roe v. Wade being overturned. Campbell is one of two Democrats in the race. He is facing Tara Johnson in the primary, where voting ends Aug. 13. The winner there faces Republican Loren Oldenburg in the fall election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A quick rundown of what we discussed with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, includes campaigns not talking about a lot of real issues (homelessness, kids using social media), Donald Trump’s proposal getting rid of taxes on tips and the upcoming Joe Biden-Trump debate.
A good part of the show dealt with why politicians aren’t campaigning on easy things like banning phones in school or giant, difficult problems like the housing crisis and homelessness.
We also dove into Trump’s proposal of not taxing tipped wages — a proposal US House Rep. Derrick Van Orden is in favor of, and the fact that the House could pass that bill right now.
Plus, how the Biden campaign could capitalize on that, or copy it, and what the current president has done along those same lines.
And, in terms of Biden-Trump, the debate is set for Thursday, so we discussed that a bit and whether it’s a good strategy to get the candidates on the air more or less. Some argue that got Trump elected in 2016, broadcasting his rallies — essentially free air time.
Began the show talking about protesters spray painting Stonehenge orange and both how that doesn’t seem like a great way to protest and also, can you just walk right up to the stones?
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in the WIZM studio Thursday for La Crosse Talk PM, discussing the homeless situation, the city’s many broken pools and his work trip to Europe.
Spent most of the show talking about the city’s homeless situation (12:00), a few days after the city council called a special meeting on what to do in the short-term with those unsheltered.
Began the show discussing the city’s crumbling pools, as Erickson is closed this summer and North Side Community Pool could close for next summer — or for good, depending on what the community says.
After that (7:30), we hit on the mayor’s trip to some of La Crosse’s sister cities in Europe and what he learned there. We also touched on that again at the end of the show (36:40), before rattling off some things happening in La Crosse — Forest Hills tennis courts, building sidewalks, bringing in the Bucks G-League team.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shy Jackson and Mya Curtis, co-founders of Hope Restores, in the WIZM studio Wednesday for La Crosse Talk PM previewing this weekend’s Juneteenth celebration at Riverside Park, talking about the origins of Hope Restores and what that group means for the community.
After that, WIZM’s Brad Williams recaps Day 1 of the Joe Gow hearing on his future with UW-La Crosse, after the Board of Regents discovered he is producing pornographic videos with his wife.
With the Hope Restores crew, we start off breaking down what's happening Saturday at Riverside Park with the Juneteenth celebration — bringing the kids for all kinds of free food and games from noon-3 p.m., and the party continues after that until 7 p.m.
We also discuss how Hope Restores got started back in 2020 and some of the things they focus on, plus how involved the group can be when it comes to being leaders within the community, including representation on committees, councils and boards.
As for the Gow hearing, Williams talks about why it's happening, how the current chancellor, Betsy Morgan, and Gow got into it a little bit, plus what happens Thursday when things wrap up. Gow retains a teaching position at UW-L but is forbidden from being on campus at this point, though he retains his $80,000 salary.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brian Renkas, a longtime Logan High School band director, joins La Crosse Talk PM on Tuesday to hype up the La Crosse Confluence, a 25-student rock band, that’s playing Moon Tunes on Thursday and Ashely for the Arts later this summer.
Renkas (7:00) talks how a 25-person rock band works, their favorite songs and where this got started. The La Crosse Confluence has a full horn section, guitarists, bassists, keyboardists, percussionists and vocalists.
The Confluence is made up of students from both Central and Logan high schools. So, we of course, talk about breaking up the band to their respective high schools, then encouraging rival schools to start their own and have a Coulee Region Battle of the Bands — which is the subplot of Bill and Ted’s Excellent Adventure.
Before Renkas joins, we talk about a couple stories happening in the area, including a microgrid that would power city and county buildings, as well as Western Tech, and the School District of La Crosse's referendum.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Aaron Engel, the superintendent for the School District of La Crosse, joins to discuss the gigantic student band La Crosse Confluence playing big gigs in the area, the $53.5 million referendum, how school districts are struggling, and wrapping up his fourth year.
The first big topic (8:15) was this huge student band that rotates through graduating and it’s playing at Moon Tunes this week and also has a gig at Ashley for the Arts in Arcadia this summer.
After that (12:30), we talked about how graduating went. The seniors who graduated would have been freshmen when the pandemic hit, and what the district does for those students who don’t graduate. That also led into a conversation (14:45) about the years-long problem of chronic absenteeism in the district.
In the second half of the show (20:50), we discussed the Milwaukee Public School District’s “accounting error” that could cost $50 million, and whether the La Crosse School District would ever find itself in a similar situation and how a school board its into that equation.
Next we got into the $53.5 million referendum (23:50) that could go on the November ballot, but started the conversation on whether the La Crosse School District is struggling — and therefore needs to go to referendum — or if all districts in Wisconsin are struggling.
In regards to the referendum, we also discussed the upcoming public engagement sessions the district has had and the ones coming up — 6 p.m. Tuesday and another on July 17 — and what they’ve learned (31:30) from the community so far, plus what the backup plans and repercussions (32:45) are if the referendum fails.
Ended the interview (35:40) with Engel answering some texts about absenteeism and the referendum.
Began the show getting Engel's opinion on blowing stuff up. Engel is a Lt. Colonel for the National Guard serving at Fort McCoy and we asked him about a funny story from a past show, where Airfest’s Dave Larsen told a story about using 180 pounds of C4 to blow up a car, and if that would happen today. Before the first break, we also hit on (5:30) Juneteenth coming up and how students nowadays learn about that, but when we were students, that wasn’t a thing that was taught in the 1990s.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jake Erickson joins to tell us what it's like for a civilian to take flight with the Blue Angels. Erickson, the CEO of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater La Crosse, was selected as an influential community member, to go up on jet No. 7 of the Navy's F-18 Super Hornets this week. After that, he talks a bit about what's happening with the B&G Clubs.
Started the show about speaking with some of the Blue Angels pilots earlier in the day, then watching the F-22 Raptors come into the La Crosse airport and getting presentation on the jet's capabilities.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two guests on a Wednesday, led off by La Crosse city council member Chris Woodard to talk about a bill to ban big animal acts, then Zach Trebelhorn from the county discusses elderly abuse calls rising in the area.
Began the show talking a bit about the Biden Administration launching BINGO and pickleball campaigns, as First Lady Jill Biden plans to head to Wisconsin.
After that (5:20), Woodard, who represents District 9, joined to talk about a bill he’s sponsored that would ban traveling acts from having elephants, big cats and bears perform here.
Next (18:10), Trebelhorn, with Adult Protective Services at the county, stopped in studio to promote Elderly Abuse Awareness Day from 10 a.m.-noon Saturday at Riverside Park, that includes the big band, Grumpy Old Men.
Trebelhorn discussed how important it is to bring more awareness to the issue of elderly abuse and how numbers have been rising locally.
The county says there were 320 community referrals in 2023 related to adults aged over 60 – an 8% increase from 2022, plus a 21% increase seen from 2021 to 2022. Of those 320, 80% of the cases were family members.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jed Olson, executive director of ORA Trails, in studio discussing how his nonprofit is helping lead the way to connecting La Crosse through big and bigger projects all over the county.
Started the show a little backwards, talking about how ORA survives, because everything they’re working on is open and free to the public, plus a quick overview of a couple of things they’re overseeing — like the Bud Hendrickson Trail and and the Shelby Trail Farm.
Then we got into (7:45) a bit of the history of the organization and some of the day-to-day things they do like maintaining Hixon Forest and trainings they hold to do some of that work — like this weekend’s chainsaw training.
After that,we began getting into (14:50) how ORA is trying to “connect the dots” in the county, including the The Bluffland Traverse project, which we get into some more later in the show.
Second half of the show (21:15), we got into the two big projects led first by the West Salem Bike Playground, which is about 80% funded and hoping to be ready by fall, and then we spent more time on connecting north and south La Crosse County (32:00) through the Bluffland Traverse project.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio discussing bike lanes, missing out on high-speed rail, the priorities of farms, his GOP opponent and the do-nothing legislature.
We didn’t waste any time getting into it. Pfaff (D-Onalaska) brought up June being dairy month and that led to a lengthy conversation about farming crop priorities, meat monopolies and the federal farm bill that has yet to pass.
We then spent a little time (15:00) talking about his Republican opponent, Stacey Klein.
The bulk of the rest of the show was on transportation, led off by how we paraded around the state for Amtrak adding a second Chicago-to-Minneapolis line, but for what? Pfaff pointed out how Wisconsin missed out on having a federally funded high-speed rail when Scott Walker first became governor.
We then transitioned to bicycles, as Pfaff just spent some time on French Island riding with students to school. We discussed how both rural and city roads are mostly unsafe for bicyclists — if not just inconvenient.
Ended the show, like usual, how the state has sat on what is now $3-5 billion in budget surplus with a “full-time” state Legislature that takes the last nine months of its 24-month term off.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Isaac Hoffman, the La Crosse Area Family Collaborative director, in the WIZM studio for La Crosse Talk PM last Thursday updating us on the city-county plan to end homelessness, a project called Pathways Home.
We make the distinction early, but Hoffman, who works with the county, is part of the long-term plan combatting homelessness, which is a separate entity to what the city is currently doing, having public meetings over camping bans.
Throughout the show, we discuss how unique La Crosse is with homelessness, what stage we’re at with Pathways Home — counting and categorizing — why we’re doing that, plus who will be prioritized throughout the project and the hurdles the plan has to overcome.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio ranking Donald Trump’s VP picks and discussing how Wheel of Fortune is both not political and best for politics, as Pat Sajak has last show.
Beginning of the show was mostly about Wheel of Fortune. But, not so much it being Sajak’s last show, but on Vanna White continuing and how she has the best job in history — though she apparently does more than reveal letters. We also got a take about “the Wheel” from WIZM’s gameshow expert Brad Williams, who has been on Jeopardy. And we talked about how the show's politics and "Hollywood" politics in general.
After that (16:30), we got political, starting first about Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul charging some in the state’s false elector scheme to overturn the 2020 election.
And, the second half of the show (22:40) started with the presidential debates coming up, before we wrapped up with Chergosky ranking the Top 8 vice presidential picks, including some OLIs (outside looking ins).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle in studio discussing Donald Trump's guilty verdict, what the state should do about A.I. and how we haven't used much of the $4 billion in budget surplus.
We also talked about plastic pollution, charging people in the Wisconsin false electors scheme, plus the half-hearted effort from Republicans in the Legislature on veto overrides that cost taxpayers.
First big topic we got into (7:15) was Wisconsin Attorney General charging three Republicans in the false electors scheme to overturn the 2020 election in the state.
We merged that conversation into one about the the Trump trial (12:45). Doyle was asked whether he was surprised by the verdict. He also drew some comparisons to Bill Clinton's impeachment in the 90s and whether this will help or hurt Trump politically.
After that (16:30) we talked about A.I., as Doyle was on a committee in trying to determine how the state should handle things. Asked Doyle whether we should be regulating A.I. in terms of making art or creating news articles. Turned that conversation into one about plastics (25:15) and if the government should step in and try to regulate these things.
Next we talked about the state's $3.5-$4 billion budget surplus (29:45) the state has been sitting on for over two years. What could it be used on? That led to a conversation about (33:00) businesses getting millions for building an EV charging network and ended quickly on the Legislature's veto override sessions where Republicans never even followed through, yet it cost taxpayers.
Began the show talking quick about Doyle's new voting district and how he's navigating a new voting base.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A interesting and fun show with La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke, where we threw him some scenarios that are happening or could happen in regards to the courts, law and relating that to politics.
Some of it had to deal with the Donald Trump trial, another with a Wisconsin judge possibly needing to recuse himself, plus some local scenarios where that might happen — like a La Crosse judge flying a Black Lives Matters or Blue Lives Matters flag outside their home.
We also discussed juries in the Trump trial, the La Crosse Todd Kendhammer murder trial and the West Salem quarry triple homicide trial.
Sticking with Kendhammer, we talked about a Thursday decision coming from the Court of Appeals on the 2017 conviction that he killed his wife.
Gruenke is up for election in November, but he doesn’t have an opponent. That’s a trend throughout all 72 Wisconsin counties. Why? We also talked about that.
Lastly, I went back to traffic and dashcams conversation from last week. Should people have them? If your own dashcam catches you doing something illegal, what do you do?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mac Kiel and Tamra Dickinson in the WIZM studio Monday — along with Lilly and Finn — for La Crosse Talk PM to discuss decisions over new camping bans that would affect the homeless, the new airport director, the $27.5 million Capital Improvement Projects budget and the fight over no new sidewalks.
Kiel and Dickson are La Crosse city council members. Dickinson is also on the Board of Public Works, which had a packed council chamber over, basically, banning homeless from camping. We discussed (28:00) the ordinance to ban camping mostly along the River March that was voted down and how the city is navigating both the long- and short-term homeless crisis.
Before that, however, we talked about the city hiring a new airport director (7:20). Jeffery Trip will take over for departed Ian Turner on June 17. Dickinson also chairs the Aviation Board
After that (17:25) we hit on the Capital Improvement Project budget for a minute, and the upcoming public meetings dealing with it.
We also talked about (21:00) how some neighborhoods in La Crosse have no sidewalks and do not want new sidewalks, while the city’s bicycle and pedestrian plan essentially is putting sidewalks on every street.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio Friday for La Crosse Talk PM and, as much as we tried to avoid talking about "the thing," we spent most of the show talking about Donald Trump's legal troubles — and if they are actually troubles.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
No better straight shooting, down the middle guest to have, discussing Donald Trump becoming the first former president felon, than La Crosse County Democratic Party chair, William Garcia. We, of course, discuss the jury's verdict and how we got here. We also talked about Garcia becoming a delegate at the Democratic Party National Convention in Chicago, and why it's voting virtually.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit on a wide array of topics with La Crosse County Sheriff John Siegel, including dashcams — how they can be used or abused — Siegel’s thoughts on the Citizen Review Board, plus some random things like being drunk on a bicycle or how peeved we get when a cop is hiding on the side of the road.
Began the show, first on traffic cams, as Minneapolis is about to install 42 of them to catch speeders and red light runners.
In the next segment (10:25), we moved to dashcams and how law enforcement can and cannot use citizens’ recordings.Plus, the idea that — as these become more prevalent — will people begin bombarding law enforcement with videos, catching people breaking the law and how that might get to be a nuisance, and, to a lesser degree, may already be a nuisance without the cams.
In the second half of the show (20:40) we hit on a bunch of random topics, including the Sheriff’s Office getting new black SUVs, can you get a DUI riding a bicycle, being annoyed seeing cops hiding parked on the side of the road, ATV rules on some county roads, and law enforcement’s involvement with the Special Olympics — the La Crosse Torch Run is from 8 a.m.-noon on June 6.
Ended the show (34:25) with Siegel’s take on the Citizens Review Board or, perhaps better recognized in other areas as a police oversight board, though the county version doesn’t actually have any oversight powers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Adam Hoffer, director of excise tax policy at the Tax Foundation in La Crosse, in studio to discuss paying NCAA Division I athletes, Wisconsin dishing out $23 million for an EV charging network, and selling the Brewers Am-Fam Field for $1.
The meat of the conversation (23:00) was about the NCAA recently settling a host of antitrust claims and beginning the framework of paying NCAA Division I athletes.
Hoffer, who taught sports economics at UW-La Crosse, has become a national expert in the developing story, having done research NCAA athletic departments. Everyone is trying to answer questions in how these departments work, where the money comes from and what it means for the future of the NCAA.
Before that (8:30), however, we talked a bit about the EV charging network the state of Wisconsin has started to set the table for, dishing out $23 million to businesses, including $8 million to Kwik Trip.
We also hit on (15:15) a recent La Crosse Talk PM conversation with Milwaukee Brewers president Rich Schlesinger, where we asked him if, instead of $500 million in public funding to renovate Am-Fam Field, what if the state just sold the Brewers the stadium for $1.
We began the show talking quick about real estate and what Hoffer does at the Tax Foundation — essentially, explaining what excise tax policy is, which we learned is taxes on things like marijuana, alcohol and sports gambling.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studion discussing people unknowingly getting sucked into the YouTube algorithm, getting the Bucks G-League team to the La Crosse Center and how the state messed up, awarding Kwik Trip $23 million for EV chargers.
We also hit on the absurdity that Congress gets to trade stocks, a US Supreme Court justice blaming his wife for flying, not one, but two right-wing-like flags outside his home and we emded with the midwest's most whacky foods.
Opened the show talking about a couple of odd and funny stories: A Tennessee GOP candidate using A.I. to completely makeover his face into basically another person, Wendy's selling 50-piece chicken nuggets and the new Minnesota tourism slogan, Anthony Edwards' "Bring ya ass," as the Timberwolves get eliminated from the NBA playoffs and traffic cams in Minneapolis.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jared Flick in studio, discussing the possibility of landing the Milwaukee Bucks G-League team or if the La Crosse Center could handle a WNBA franchise, plus the idea of bringing in bigger concerts and more stand-up comics to the city.
Flick is the deputy director of recreation and the La Crosse Center.
The idea of landing the Wisconsin Herd — the Bucks G-League team — could be out in Oshkosh after this season. When the Bucks initially were courting cities for their G-League franchise, La Crosse applied.
https://www.wizmnews.com/2016/06/11/milwaukee-bucks-eyeing-la-crosse-for-d-league-expansion/
The WNBA is also looking to expand, so we also discussed if that was a possibility.
We also got into the old debate, ‘Why doesn’t the La Crosse Center bring in bigger concerts?’ Along those lines, we did hit on some of the bigger concerts and stand-up comics that have recently come through the Center, what’s on the radar, plus how the Center just hosted its biggest event — and you’d probably never guess what that is every year.
Other things we discussed, more on the “parks and rec.” side, included closing one city pool this summer and potentially another one next summer with hundreds of thousands of dollars in repairs needed.
We also talked about more pickleball, a big fastpitch softball tourney coming to town and a weird city rule that basically prevents the city from hosting sand volleyball tournaments at Pettibone Park.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dan Kapanke stopped in the studio to talk about the upcoming seasons for the La Crosse Loggers baseball team, the newly created La Crosse Steam softball club and the PFAS “forever chemicals” situation in the town of Campbell.
Kapanke is co-owner of both the Loggers and Steam, who will both play at Copeland Park this summer. He is also the board chair for the Town of Campbell, which has been on bottled water for over four years because of PFAS contamination in 90 percent of the private wells on the island.
Spent a good portion of the show talking about the inaugural season for the Steam, some history of the Loggers — including MLB all-stars Chris Sale and Max Scherzer — plus a little bit on how renovations at Copeland Park, which is owned by the city, compare to how stadium upgrades happened with the Milwaukee Brewers.
Ended the show (32:20) discussing the PFAS situation, what Campbell’s options are and where the money to proceed with any of those options will come from.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
While Dave Larsen and Bruce Mathew stopped in studio to talk about the Deke Slayton Airfest and Freedom Honor Flight, we did get one story about blowing up a Mercury Zephyrs with C4 at Fort McCoy, and another story about nearly crashing a plane as a teen and possibly never telling mom.
Larsen is the Airfest media director and spent 20 years in Wisconsin Army National Guard, retiring in 1999, while Mathew is the Airfest air operations coordinator and has been a pilot since he was 14 years old.
We spent most of the show talking about Airfest, which is happening June 13-14 and will feature the Navy's Blue Angels and the Air Force's brand new F-22 Raptors. But we learn Apache helicopters are now part of the attraction, as well as the Coast Guard's "Dolphin," MH-65 chopper.
We did take an interlude (11:30) to get an incredibly hilarious story from Larsen about blowing up his old winter beater at Fort McCoy that set the woods on fire.
In the second half of the show (18:20), we got back into Airfest talk and some of the highlights of shows present and past. Airfest has been going on since 1998.
We discussed how the F22 Hornets show this year will compare to the Blue Angels and the brand new, trillion-dollar F-35 that was here back in 2021.
Then we got into a quick story from Mathew (31:20) about nearly crashing his plane as a teenage pilot, and apparently he never told his parents about it.
Lastly (34:30), we discussed the Freedom Honor Flight, that takes area veterans to Washington DC to see the memorials. The next one comes up Sept. 21. Any veteran can sign up.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings in studio discussing last week’s political stunt by Republicans, what to do with the $4 billion budget surplus and her campaign priorities for getting reelected.
Began the show talking about how the Legislature hasn’t really been in session since mid-March, has the rest of the year off and what kind of things Billings does, outside of session.
That led to what Republicans did last week, in calling an extraordinary session to try and override some of Democratic Gov. Tony Evers’ vetoes. But, for whatever work the Senate did — and it wasn’t a lot because some reps. apparently had other plans and had to go, despite this being a full-time state Legislature — the Assembly, needing to pass what the Senate passed, instead gaveled in and immediately out of its session.
Could the Assembly had debated some of the bills the Senate passed, like $125 million in funding for PFAS pollution, which has forced the Town of Campbell on French Island to use bottled water for the past four years?
Started the second half of the show (19:40) with a topic we had fun with last week, which was what people flying into Wisconsin should get, like when you get a lei flying into Hawaii.
That, oddly enough, led to an interesting talk (25:00) about what Billings thinks the state should do with its $4 billion in budget surplus that has been mostly unspent for over 2.5 years now.
We also discussed (27:45) Red Lobster in La Crosse closing, giving workers no notice whatsoever.
Lastly (31:50), we got into some of Billings priorities as she campaigns in a partially new district and what ideas she hears from potential voters she’s talking to.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Our political blowhard, Adam Murphy, joins to answer the toughest question: What should we hand to people landing in Wisconsin, like getting a lei off the jet in Hawaii? We also discussed the less-than-half effort from Republicans in the state Legislature to overturn vetoes, plus WIZM on Reddit.
Got some great answers from Murphy and callers to that question and spent a good part of the show discussing it.
We also hit on Republicans in the state Legislature (17:30) calling themselves back into session — the Legislature has been off since mid-March and wasn’t coming back into session until next year, after the elections — to try and override 36 of Gov. Tony Evers’ vetoes. You’ll be surprised at how big a failure that was.
Ended the show (33:00) talking about a post on Reddit about WIZM comments and whether or not they should be “moderated” or deleted. We did not get to the part where one commented said Rick leaned middle-left politically.
Murphy has degrees in economics and political science from UW-Milwaukee. He’s also owns a small business, called Big Bang LLC in Milwaukee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you wanted to know about electric vehicles, we hit on a vast amount of topics with Jeremiah Brockman, president of the Wisconsin chapter of the Electric Vehicle Association.
Brockman was thrown a list of about 50 things having to deal with EVs — including how they hold up in winter, "gas mileage," environmental impacts and charging. Brockman was a great sport in answering as many as we could get through.
Brockman is also putting together an August 9-10 fundraiser, driving across Wisconsin with other EV owners, making stops in multiple cities on the way — including Olson Solar in La Crosse. Part of the fundraiser to to provide scholarships for students who would like to become EV mechanics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
One more public meeting for the city of La Crosse's Bicycle and Pedestrian Master Plan is coming up. City associate planner Jenna Dinkel joins to go over some of the ins and outs of the plan, plus a look at the Wagon Wheel Trail and some upcoming public meetings from the Wisconsin DOT on Highways 35, 53 and 16.
The city's bike-ped plan is a major revision from its 2012 counterpart, and we talk about some of the decade-old ideas that are now obsolete — like "sharrows."
The city will host a final public meeting on the master plan draft from 4:30-6:30 p.m. Monday in the auditorium at the La Crosse Main Street Library, with a presentation held at 5:30 p.m. There is also a quick survey online looking for feedback until June 3, as well.
We also dived into details on the Wagon Wheel Trail (26:35) and how La Crosse is catching up to La Crescent in completing that project. And, we hit on some Wisconsin DOT upcoming public meetings (29:00) on those three highways mentioned above.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Michael Quam, the development director for the Salvation Army of La Crosse County, joined to discuss homelessness in the area, how the shelter has changed over the past few years and where they fit in with the Pathways Home plan.
Didn’t take long to get into the homeless situation (3:50), including the Salvation Army being at capacity, how many people it has to turn away and how many success stories it has had.
We also discussed if a lack of housing or affordable housing is the No. 1 reason for homelessness a couple of different times, plus future plans for the Salvation Army with possible expansion and how they fit into the city-county’s Pathways Home plan to essentially end homelessness by 2029.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tina Tryggestad, the new La Crosse County Board chair, stopped in the WIZM studio Thursday for La Crosse Talk PM to discuss her new role, planning for the board’s five-year strategic plan and new Civilian Review Board.
Began the show about how and if the board's work could change as the American Rescue Plan Act funding is basically allocated and there isn't this $22 million from the feds to use.
We then got into her becoming the chair (5:30), before getting into the board's meeting Wednesday (7:50) on a five-year strategic plan and what that looks like.
In the second half of the show, began (20:20) talking about the makeup of the board and harkening back to something Tryggestad said when she was elected president, about doing away with an 'us vs. them' attitude on the board.
Then we got into where the county is at with creating a Civilian Review Board (23:20) to potentially look at police activity in the county.
Ended the show (31:00) taking a couple calls, including one on the landfill and another on plastic pollution.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-L political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in the WIZM studio Friday for La Crosse Talk PM on the best summer movie, some politics — like the US House saga, a dead House rep. wins election and JFK Jr.’s brain worm — but also on sleeping in an airline’s overhead bin and what you’d do if you found $40,000.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Covered a lot of ground with Milwaukee Brewers president, Rick Schlesinger, including whatever happened to Hank the Dog, details in the $500 million taxpayer funded stadium upgrades, are we getting a beer district and playing PlayStation on the scoreboard during games.
Began the show (2:30) talking about Schlesinger's gigantic job description, before getting into the big mystery: Whatever happened to Hank the Dog (5:30)?
After that, discussed food pricing at the stadium (8:30) and why there might not be $1 beer nights or a radial tire night, plus some of the promotions that are happening.
Next (12:15), we hit on the Brewers playing the Cubs and facing their old manager, Craig Counsell, who left for a big payday in Chicago.
We also talked (14:00) about how the Philadelphia 76ers bought up 2,000 tickets, because NY Knicks fans flooded one of their home games, and if the Brewers would ever do that to keep Chicago fans coming.
To begin the second half of the show (16:45), asked Schlesinger how he got his start and into the role as Brewers president.
After that, I floated Schlesinger the first of my half-baked ideas, and that's to take all the front row seats for one game and give them to kids throughout the state — so the entire front row of a game is all children.
Then (20:20) we got into the $500 million taxpayer funded stadium upgrades deal made with the state Legislature, but in a different way. Before talking about how that deal came about, I asked Schlesinger my second half-baked idea: Instead of taxpayers funding the stadium, what if the state sold the Brewers Am-Fam Field for $1.
After that (23:20), Schlesinger talked about the Brewers lobbying efforts to convince the state Legislature to agree to the $500 million deal, and if there was different strategies to convincing Republicans and Democrats to sign onto the plan since the state is so politically divided.
Next, (30:15) we got into whether the Brewers will have a "Beer District," much like the Milwaukee Bucks have the Deer District, outside and around their arena
We wrapped up (31:30) with some more crowdsourced questions, including the Brewers should have their own brewery and the fermenting tanks should be in play for home run balls. Also, will MLB be going all in on electronic balls and strikes, since that cost Milwaukee one of the games against the Cubs. Lastly, the last half-baked idea: Can we get players that are off for the day, playing MLB the Show on PlayStation, during the actual game.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The $54 million question is coming to the November ballot for La Crosse School District voters and school board president, Dr. Juan Jimenez, joins to break down the plan. Jimenez is also the associate dean at Western Technical College in La Crosse, and we discuss some new changes to classes that just started.
And that’s where we started (6:45) the first big segment of the show, with changes to WTC class lengths which sounds like it will add more flexibility for students, as well as allow them to focus more on less subjects.
In the second half of the show (17:00), we get into the La Crosse School District’s referendum question headed to the November ballot, to consolidate four elementary schools, build a new school at the Hogan Administrative site and update State Road Elementary.
And we discuss the makeup of community engagement sessions on those plans happening in person on May 22 and May 28 at 6 p.m (though no site has been selected) and virtually at noon May 21 and June 6.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Covered a lot with La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds, including the smells from City Brewing, fighting the DOT on closing a road for Amtrak addition, down payment assistance for first-time home buyers and an update on the River Point District, north of downtown.
Began the show, however, with the La Crosse being one of 100 cities in the world to be part of the Youth Climate Action Fund, which came from Reynold’s trip to Dubai for COP 28. We talk about the youth fund in more detail later in the show (19:00).
After that (14:30), a bit on the building sale of the old south side library, where the city initially got five proposals and has narrowed that down to three. The building is said to be worth about $350,000.
In the second half of the show, we discuss how the addition of another Amtrak route from Chicago to Milwaukee could affect La Crosse. In putting in a third track on the north side the Wisconsin Department of Transportation (DOT) apparently wants to permanently shut down streets.
Then we got a bit of an update (28:00) on the River Point District development, with a celebration happening Tuesday, plus what else we might see in that area.
Ended the show (33:50) with the city’s first-time home buyer’s assistance program, using federal ARPA funding.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Adam Murphy joined La Crosse Talk PM on Friday, deep diving into the electrification of the nation. Before we got into that, however, we spent a bit of time on the confusing "economy," Donald Trump's immunity claim, and immigration.
Murphy, who has degrees in economics and political science from UW-Milwaukee, owns a small tech business, called Big Bang LLC, in Milwaukee.
The second half of the show (18:30) was a multi-layered discussion about electrification, from solar housing somehow producing too much energy to EV charging stations and how the government should be utilized to overhaul the nation into electric — like a nation of F-150 Lightnings.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
William Garcia in the WIZM studio Thursday for La Crosse Talk PM discussing the upcoming US House candidate Democratic forum on Wednesday at UW-La Crosse, the peculiar timing of new policies passed by the Biden Administration and politicians useless campaign posts.
Garcia is the Democratic Party chair for both La Crosse County and the 3rd US House District here in Wisconsin.
Began the show discussing the first of four US House forums for the 3rd District between Rebecca Cooke, Katrina Shankland and Eric Wilson in Eau Claire and, later in the show (30:10) got into more of how those are conducted and how you can get involved (Email questions to Garcia here).
We then got into the timing of recently passed policies (7:50) by the Biden Administration on overtime pay for salary workers, doing away with noncompetes and airlines having to pay back customers immediately for cancellations, among other things.
That led to a discussion (13:45) on what the US House has done along the same regards of helping everyday people, though it has only passed 27 bills in 16 months — when a typical Congress passes 250-300 bills.
In the second half of the show (20:45) we discussed how politicians have no substance to what they’re doing on the campaign trail, positing pictures of themselves here or there, saying they’re talking about issues, but never relaying any of that information to voters who want to know either where they stand or what they’re doing to combat said issues.
Next (22:50), we discussed Vice President Kamala Harris’ visit to La Crosse and all the things she did during her that campaign stop.
We also talked about the optics and normality of the scope of her visit, that included a round-table discussion and an invite-only speech, vs., for example, a Donald Trump rally.
In the last segment (34:40) we talk about Republican US Senate candidate Eric Hovde messing up the Pledge of Allegiance earlier this week and how stupid things our politicians do are funny, but we should be focusing on their policies more than their gaffs.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Council members, Mackenzie Mindel and Mac Kiel, in the WIZM studio for La Crosse Talk PM discussing city being 1 of 100 awarded youth climate grant funding, selling the south side library building and a homeless plan update.
Kiel and Mindel are on the Judiciary and Administration Committee, which meets at 6 p.m. Tuesday. We began the show reviewing one decision by the council last month on a state law dealing with supermajorities.
Mindel also talked (10:45) about her experience meeting Vice President Kamala Harris, who came to La Crosse last Monday.
After that, Kiel gave a bit of a homeless update, as she goes out with the Homeless Outreach Team each week.
Began the second half of the show (20:20) with a J&A agenda item to rezone for an ethnic grocery store and apartments on the south side.
Then we spent a good amount of time (23:10) discussing the city receiving $50,000 to award to youth groups as part of the Youth Climate Action Fund.
Wrapped up the show (32:00) discussing the potential sale of the old south side library building and one hiccup in the plan in that it could get historic designation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rachel King and Dillon Constant in studio to talk about two different fields within La Crosse County government that are helping make the community more sustainable and healthy.
King is an epidemiologist with the county Health Department, while Constant is the county planner. On the show, we discuss the county’s two phases of its Climate Action Plan, parts of which include transitioning the fleet to EVs and zero emissions by 2050, plus how the community can get involved with upcoming listening sessions.
We also talk how the environment impacts people’s health — from warmer weather increasing the prevalence of disease carrying bugs to even distant wildfires keeping people indoors — and how actions the county is doing go hand-in-hand with the community’s well-being.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio discussing some of the latest results from the Marquette U. Law School poll, showing Joe Biden and Donald Trump even. Plus, why are we complaining when the vice president is visiting La Crosse — and is the electoral college working in creating that opportunity?
We began the show with VP Kamala Harris’ upcoming La Crosse visit, before getting into some of the Marquette poll results, which also show US Senate candidates Tammy Baldwin and Eric Hovde even. Should we care about polls in April for a November election?
The second half of the show began with some nonsense stories (18:05) that just show how downtrodden our politics has become, including one Chergosky hadn’t heard. That particular story had to do with Biden saying a family member was cannibalized during WWII. There is also the Trump being “gassy” in court story. Plus, Wisconsin US House Rep. Derrick Van Orden getting into a name-calling fight with Florida GOP Rep. Matt Gaetz, where they refer to each other as Squish and Tubby.
Then, piggybacking on a call from Kent (22:10) we talked about VP Harris’ visit and the electoral college’s role in such events. Also, when voters feel they’re not being represented, Chergosky discusses how either party could cater to any number of people — young people, women, minorities — to win their vote, and what people will do if they’re not happy with their party.
Lastly (35:20), we quickly discussed the Squish and Tubby name calling, as it pertains to US House Speaker Mike Johnson possibly being ousted and perhaps politics should be more “put up or shut up” versus playing it safe and seeing if you have the votes.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Entomologist, Dr. Ted Wilson, joins to talk about these two cicada species emerging for the first time in 221 years, how we can stick it back to mosquitoes, plus the good and bad with “No Mow May” in La Crosse.
Wilson, the Biology chair at Viterbo University, talks about this once-in-multiple-lifetimes event where these two species of cicadas that emerge from the ground every 13 and every 17 years collide this spring — soon. Where it’s happening, how annoying it will be on the ears, how they know to come up every 13 and 17 years, and more.
After that, we discuss ticks and mosquitoes and how we can limit their numbers, plus how wonky winters and springs affect insect populations.
Finished off the show talking La Crosse’s third annual ‘No Mow May,” where you essentially don’t mow your lawn until June.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Laura Godden joins to talk about the upcoming release of La Crosse’s Top 10 most endangered buildings, plus she discusses the city’s most untouchable structures, as well.
Godden is an archivist at UW-La Crosse and on the city’s Heritage Preservation Commission. Among the buildings we discuss are two that are very much threatened to get demolished soon — Glory Days Sports Pub, downtown, and the La Crosse School District’s Hogan Administrative Center.
The latter could be part of a $54 million referendum question going on the November ballot, where the district will ask voters to approve the capitol project of demolishing the 104-year-old Hogan building, putting up a new elementary there and updating State Road Elementary with eight new classrooms and a new gym. The other half of that plan would be closing Spence, Hintgen and Emerson elementary schools.
Godden also discussed some of the incredible history of Longfellow Middle School.
Lastly, we had Godden give her most coveted buildings list — buildings that are basically untouchable in the city, like the Hixon House.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Education Association president, Jesse Martinez joined to talk about the school board elections, with their write-in candidate winning, plus how the teachers’ union feels about the $54 million new elementary school plan potentially going on the ballot.
Martinez, a seventh-grade math and science teacher at Logan, started the show talking about how he handles giving students standardized tests in the midst of one of the nicest days of the year.
After that, we spent quite a bit of time on the election, where there was only two candidates for three spots on the school board. Martinez discussed the possible need for the union to get more involved in finding candidates and how much influence they should have in the board elections.
The school board talk seamlessly led to a conversation about the potential for the upcoming $54 million referendum question going on the November ballot, to tear down the Hogan Administrative site for a new elementary, updating State Road school and closing three others.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio discussing the Wagon Wheel Trail expansion to the city, rethinking sidewalks and bike paths and the riverbank cleanup from homeless encampments.
Began the show with Reynolds talking about the FIRST Robotic Competition that was held at the La Crosse Center last weekend.
After that, we talked a bit about the NCAA women’s basketball tournament and the phenomenon of Caitlin Clark, and made the smoothest transitions into sidewalks and news that the Wagon Wheel Trail will be extended from La Crescent to downtown La Crosse.
Then we talked about one piece of legislation on Thursday’s city council agenda about enacting a new state law about supermajority votes at the local level, which would have affected legislation at last month’s council meeting dealing with the YWCA.
In the second half of the show, we went back to sidewalk talk, as a southside neighborhood doesn’t want to see them installed in front of their homes, while the city’s comprehensive plan is transitioning to alternate forms of transportation. That led to a bit of a discussion on if there was a better way to create sidewalks and bike paths.
The last big topic discussed was about the 180 tons of cleanup along the riverbank from homeless encampments, and the Wisconsin DNR’s enforcement threat if it didn’t happen.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, recapping the local elections and how negative campaigns played a part in the judicial race, how school referendums did across Wisconsin and the tight rope Eric Hovde is walking in his US Senate race in the state. We also hit on Wisconsin US House Rep. Mike Gallagher's "timely" retiring to perhaps sabotage his own GOP party. Ended the show talking about Kansas City voting against the Chiefs and Royals new stadiums, while Wisconsin didn't get that vote with the Brewers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Administrator, Jane Klekamp, in studio discussing what happens now with a new county board, plus updates on homeless plan, healthcare center renovations and strategic plan. Spent the first half of the show talking about the La Crosse County Board elections, that included six brand new members and how they will get initiated. After that, we got updates on the Pathways Home plan to end homelessness, the timeline for the Hillview Healthcare Center and a bit about the upcoming strategic plan, which the county hired a consultant to compile.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rep. Steve Doyle joins to announce he’s running for reelection in the state Assembly and how attack ads backfired in the La Crosse County elections.
Doyle, just reelected to the La Crosse County Board, talks about the fliers that went out attacking him and others and how the results show those tactics just don’t work in local elections. Doyle also discusses what both the Republican and Democratic county parties might do, as almost a truce, so as to not deter people from wanting to run for local office.
We also discuss some, what seemed like simple legislation, that took Doyle six years to get passed — and with a Republican as the lead sponsor.
Wrapped up the conversation talking a bit more about the Civilian Review Board that’s being put together.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The man known as Brucie Bumchuckles on the radio, joins to talk about the April Fools' hoax in La Crosse that went viral before viral was a thing. Marty Severson relives the 1986 bit, where he fooled everyone with a radio ad from the "phone company" to bag your phone, because they were going to blow the dust out of the phone lines. A hoarding of bags from Quillins ensued. Phone companies wanted to sue. People left work to go home and bag their phones. Here's the ad.
After that (22:05), La Crosse County clerk Ginny Dankmeyer breaks down some info on the spring election cycle ending Tuesday that includes a circuit court judicial race, county and school board races and the already over presidential primary.
We also asked Dankmeyer, Can you vote "uncommitted" instead of Joe Biden? What's the turnout going to look like? How would the two Constitutional Amendments effect the clerk's office?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jane Powell kicks off the show, talking about how the League Of Women Voters of the La Crosse Area is involved in the spring elections, including its views on the two Constitutional Amendments that are on the ballot. After that, Tim Alberts joins to discuss his run for La Crosse School Board. That conversation included his not wanting to be named on the 1776 Pac flier that went out to voters. He also talks about the potential $54 million referendum question that would go on the November ballot.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A few days from committee week, Mac Kiel joins first, to discuss some upcoming items on the Judiciary and Administration Committee, as well as a bit of a homeless update. After that, Amber Peterson joins as a write-in candidate running for La Crosse School Board.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
William Garcia, the Democratic Party chair for both La Crosse County and the 3rd US House District, in studio to discuss accusations that the Democratic Party is recruiting candidates to run for La Crosse County Board. Before that, however, I rant a bit about partisanship in nonpartisan races and WIZM's Brad Williams joins to talk about the Biden campaign's reelection co-chair, Mitch Landrieu, stopping in La Crosse.
Began the show talking about the end of the spring election cycle coming Tuesday and how both La Crosse County political parties have gotten involved and if there's a way to keep politics out of the nonpartisan races.
After that (5:40), Williams joins to discuss Landrieu's visit to the bus barn and the oddity that this is the third visit by prominent Democrats, including President Joe Biden in 2021, to the bus barn. The other visit was from transportation secretary Craig Thompson back in May.
And, lastly (20:20), Garcia joins, responding to accusations made the day before on WIZM's La Crosse Talk, from La Crosse County Board member Dennis Jacobsen, that the Democratic Party recruited and helped a candidate run against him and others. Garcia recently discussed, on the Democratic Voice podcast, his view of the differences in spring election involvement between the La Crosse County Republican Party and the Democratic Party.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Board candidate Kristie Tweed kicks off the show Tuesday and Jake Williams, a write-in candidate for La Crosse School Board wraps up, as we’re a week from the spring election voting cycle ending.
Tweed, running in District 24 against Kevin Hoyer, dropped in studio to talk about why she’s running for county board, how she wants to get the word out on all the things the county can offer that people might not know about, and some of the issues the county has or is dealing with — ATVs on roads, roads in general and the Hillview Healthcare Center revamp.
After that (18:25), Jake Williams joins to get the word out that he’s running as a write-in candidate for school board and what his priorities are, his feelings on the big issues right now with the district — including the upcoming November referendum.
Williams is one of many write-in candidates, while two are actually on the ballot — Tim Alberts and Adam Manka. There are three open seats for La Crosse School Board, where people can cast a vote for one, two or three candidates.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio discussing work that Legislature — that's out of session the rest of 2024 — could be doing, work he is doing, like Lansing bridge repair updates, and what needs to happen with EV charging stations.
Got into it first with Pfaff (7:40) on the Senate being out of sessions for a few weeks now and just what kind of work there is to do. The Legislature is adjourned for the year. Lawmakers won't be making any laws. So, any work being done now, there's no guarantee that legislators up for re-election would even be in Madison next year to use knowledge gained now to pass laws next year.
One of the things Pfaff did talk about he's working on is the Lansing bridge repairs (8:50) and getting an update from the Iowa DOT and Wisconsin DOT on how that's going.
As for what the Legislature needs to do yet (13:14), Pfaff said Badgercare expansion, his bill capping insulin prices at $35, codifying Roe v. Wade and getting rid of the state's 175-year-old abortion ban law or helping with childcare (23:15).
Lastly, we talked about the state passing legislation last week to use $80 million in federal funds to being creating an EV charging network at businesses. But, does that do enough? Mentioned to Pfaff that EVs are better utilized at homes and for people who rent, landlords have little incentive to install EV chargers, so renters waste time and money having to charge their EVs somewhere else.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio discussing the US House passing $1.2 trillion to keep government open, right before vacation, and how politicians and candidates use social media fairly unproductively — like making NCAA picks.
Began the show right there, to a degree, and how Instagram is not showing political posts anymore, unless you go through five sub-menus to turn that option back on.
After that, a lot of US House talk, with Green Bay GOP Rep. Mike Gallagher retiring early now for to “spend time with family,” and how the politics surrounding Republican Mike Johnson’s ability to keep his House Speaker seat.
Ended the show talking about politicians on social media and how it’s more of the magazine US Weekly “they’re one of us,” versus them posting about substantive issues they’re governing bodies are dealing with, how they’re voting or would vote and their thoughts on those issues.
Republican US Senate candidate Eric Hovde posted a video about his NCAA Tournament picks. The AP decided that was worth a story because he didn’t pick a Wisconsin team — though, he didn’t troll all Democrats by picking a California team, either.
That is just one example of how politicians are on social media showing us they’re human but really not informing the public on their stances for the seats they hold or want to hold in much of a substantive way consistently.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A two guest Thursday, as we discuss some big events surrounding the Hunger Task Force of La Crosse, before one of the many write-in candidates for La Crosse School Board joins to talk about his priorities.
First off, Shelly Fortner, the executive director for the Hunger Task Force talks about two big March events — 95.7 the Rock’s .01K down Pearl Street that raised $4,381 and the upcoming Food Drive Friday by Interact students from Central, Logan, Aquinas, Onalaska and West Salem.
The St. Patty’s Day event last weekend saw about 350 “runners” show up to race 32.8 feet to raise money for the Hunger Task Force. Over 19 years of the event, over $100,000 has been raised.
Food Drive Friday will happen from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. March 29 — Good Friday — at the Valley View Mall parking lot. The students who run iFeed in November asked Fortner if there was something they could do heading into summer, and this is it.
After that, Jeremiah Galvan joined to discuss the La Crosse School Board. Only two candidates are on the ballot for three open seats, so around a dozen people are now running write-in campaigns hoping to get on the board.
One of the big responsibilities of the next school board will be the passage of a November referendum to renovate State Road Elementary with eight new classrooms and a gym, as well as build a new elementary school at the Hogan Administrative Center site. The cost for both projects is about $54 million.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Political scientist, economist and small business owner Adam Murphy joins to talk about the news how Wisconsin is funding an EV charging network, the US House's ban of TikTok and running the government like a business. Murphy owns Big Bang, LLC, out of Milwaukee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
School District of La Crosse superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel, in the WIZM studio Tuesday for La Crosse Talk PM, discussing the newest referendum plan, lunch debt, are there too many administrators and if school starts too early in the day.
Began the show talking a bit about a huge concert that happened right after the show, but then got into a text question (5:30) on if the school district has too many administrators and is their pay more than what teachers make.
After that, we discussed the school lunch debt situation in the district (11:45) and how it’s ebbed and flowed the past year. We also talked about the state or feds coming in and making school meals free again. The state has a budget surplus of between $4 billion and $7 billion but Engel said that one-time money wouldn’t be ideal for a school meals plan.
But, in terms of using budget surplus money, it would work well in terms of the district trying to update consolidate its building plans.
The second half of the show (20:10) consisted of the La Crosse School Board’s decision to add to the referendum question that’s going on the November ballot to consolidate elementary schools, as well as build a new one at the Hogan Administrative site. The plan to renovate State Road elementary, while closing Emerson, Spence and Hintgen and build a new elementary would cost around $53.5 million — which is about $44 per $100,000 in property value.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings in the WIZM studio Monday for La Crosse Talk PM discussing some of the bills passed in the final session, including one that has La Crosse roots. We also talked how she's getting to know her new district.
One of the bills we discussed that Billings got passed, after years of work, is named Steve's Law, after Steve Johnson. He was a Coulee Region native who lost his sight as an adult and passed away in 2019. The law helps those with disabilities make outdoor recreation more accessible.
Billings will also have a new district upon winning in November, so she talked a little about getting to know those voters by telling a story about Deke Slayton, as she went to the 100th birthday celebration in Sparta a few weekends ago.
We also discussed a couple of funning things, like whether men ever put their coats over puddles for women to walk over, do men still lead when dancing and how we don't need wait staff singing happy birthday at a restaurant.
Oh, and how Billings is about to see her first NBA game — the Timberwolves-Cavs on Friday — so we played her some Anthony Edwards highlights. Later in the evening Edwards had what he called the best dunk of his career and also dislocated his finger — so we may have jinxed Billings' first game.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio talking about conspiracy theorists running for office — Aaron Rodgers for VP — the House banning TikTok, Eric Hovde’s new plan running for US Senate in Wisconsin and a pizza flavored beer.
Began the show a bit on the conspiracy theorist running for office, in Robert F. Kennedy Jr. running for president and picking possibly Aaron Rodgers or Jesse “the Body” Ventura as his vice president.
Then we got into (12:30) another candidate running for office in Eric Hovde, Republican for US Senate in Wisconsin. The controversy has been how “Wisconsin” is he, as we talked about in the past, but now he’s donating his salary if elected. So, we discussed how dumbed down these campaigns have been so far and if they’ll actually start talking about issues that affect people.
In the second half of the show (24:00), we began with two Friday news dumps — one involving Boeing and another on Mike Pence not endorsing Donald Trump. But that led to a conversation about a TikTok ban, and how money in politics is affecting all of these things — Boeing making big contributions, Congress investing in TikTok competitors, a billionaire invested in TikTok looking to give money to Trump’s campaign.
Ended the show (35:40) talking about New Belguim making a pizza flavored beer and then continued the conversation (37:30) about RFJ Jr. possibly picking Rodgers as his running mate.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's PI Day, and Spencer Wilken is back on La Crosse Talk PM to discuss the upcoming solar eclipse, how her PhD is going in Astronomy at the University of Illinois and, we’re still doing our regular segment, where we break news that happened from 50-150 years ago.
We saved that for last, but it has to deal with the invention of the jetpack and how the three men involved ended up being, kidnapped, murdered and serving jail — all while the original jetpack was hidden and has still never been found.
Wilken also gives me a basic astronomy quiz that college students take, including knowing the difference between astronomy and astrology. She also gives a kind of amazing fact about astrology, for those who identify with a certain sign — you may not actually be that sign anymore.
But, we began the show just getting an update on studying for an astronomy PhD and how Wilken takes to heart being a woman in science and inspiring girls to also be interested in the field.
After that, we discuss multiple facets of the eclipse, including the weird things animals do — like tortoises getting down.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about the world’s shortest race back for its 19th year this Saturday in downtown La Crosse, plus what it was like when downtown La Crosse wasn’t one-way streets and the top priorities for Rick Cornforth, as he seeks reelection on the La Crosse County Board.
Began the show with Bags from 95.7 the Roc to talk about the 19th “running” of the St. Patty’s Day .01K that happens down Pearl Street at 2 p.m. Saturday. Proceeds for the event go to the Hunger Task Force of La Crosse — the only food bank between Madison and Rochester, distributing goods to 120 meal sites, food pantries, youth and backpack programs in the region.
After that, WIZM’s Brad Williams joined, as we discussed some comments from La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds on Monday’s show about wishing 3rd and 4th streets in downtown La Crosse could be two-way streets again. Williams also talked about the La Crosse County Judiciary and Law Commission meeting Tuesday, discussing how to implement a Citizen Review Board of law enforcement.
Lastly, Cornforth joined to talk about some of his top priorities working on the La Crosse County Board, as he seeks reelection for a fifth term in District 19. That conversation hovered around the aforementioned Citizen Review Board, road funding, childcare and the Hillview Healthcare Center renovation and modification.
Cornforth’s opponent in the race is Brooke Bahr.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio discussing the sale of the former south side library, an update on the homeless situation, parking minimums and rethinking traffic — including making downtown two-way streets again.
Began the show, however, talking about Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers visiting La Crosse to tour the wastewater treatment plant, which is set to open in late summer. We also spent some time discussing the $68 million plant’s features — like it powering itself and coming coming off the grid. That also led to a conversation about electric vehicles, including city busses.
After that (16:45), we talked the potential sale of the south side former library and just how that process will work and how it’s decided who to sell to.
The bottom half of the hour (20:10) started with how this month is the 24th year of the show — which Mitch started in 2005 — followed by some city council business coming up Thursday, including committee approved funding for the Legal Action of Wisconsin to assist with evictions.
Then (22:15) we got into a bit of an update on the city-count effort’s Pathways Home plan to end homelessness in the city.
Lastly (28:15), we began talking about the city’s parking minimums for residential properties but that led to a traffic conversation, including Reynolds’ wish that 3rd and 4th streets downtown could go back to two-way traffic.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Cherosky, in studio discussing Republican US Senate candidate for Wisconsin, Eric Hovde’s odd campaign challenge, Wendy’s and Kellogg’s CEOs trying to normalize a dystopian society, and the La Crosse Steam gearing up for softball, in need of a celebrity fan.
Began the show, though, talking a bit averting a government shutdown by kicking multiple cans down the road or into the future, how 82-year-old Mitch McConnell is stepping down as leader, but not retiring and how doorbell cams play into campaigns.
Then we got into Republican US Senate candidate, Eric Hovde, in multiple ways — his moustache, his shirtless campaign challenge, where takes a dip in Lake Mendota to prove how Wisconsin — not California — he is, and the GOP’s need for rich people to fund their campaigns.
We began the second half of the show (19:00) talking about the La Crosse Steam softball team getting ready to start and how it needs a celebrity fan in the front row, like the Lakers with Jack Nicholson or the Knicks with Spike Lee.
After that, we got into the dystopian society talk with Wendy’s CEO (26:10) talking about surge pricing but not surge wages during those busiest hours, and the Kellogg’s CEO trying to normalize eating cereal for breakfast if food is too expensive.
Lastly (34:50), we chatted about how many times the GOP-led US House is going to partially fund the government to avoid a shutdown. US House Rep. Derrick Van Orden (R-Prairie du Chien) voted against the last partial funding but for this one.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mac Kiel and Mackenzie Mindel in studio discussing the culture of La Crosse’s city council, three years into the first-ever female majority. We also talked about the city’s EV busses in the cold, homelessness and recapping last month’s meeting and next week’s Judiciary and Administration (J&A) Committee.
Mindel is the chair of the J&A committee and Kiel is also on it. Toward the end of the show we talk about two items on Tuesday’s agenda — essentially rezoning proposals for a UW-La Crosse parking ramp and updates at the REACH Center.
Before that, however, we began the show with the most important thing from the February meeting — (2:45) allowing us to drink and play pickleball — the saga of Blue Zone Pickleball getting their alcohol license at the north side building that used to be Shopko.
After that, (7:20) we talk about how things have changed three years into a female majority on La Crosse’s city council.
Began the second half of the show with a couple of updates from Kiel on how the city’s EV busses handled last month’s very cold spell, along with a bit of a homeless update (25:50), as she goes out with the outreach team weekly.
We then recapped (29:30) a couple of items passed in the February council meeting, including allowing Accessory Dwelling Units and setting aside $7.6 million for Phase 3 of the River Point District (32:50) and how that came to be.
Lastly, a look at the J&A meeting Tuesday and a quick breakdown (34:20) of the UW-La Crosse and REACH Center rezoning requests.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. and La Crosse County board member Steve Doyle joins to discuss the details of a civilian review board of law enforcement, the state Legislature’s leftover priorities as its off the rest of the year and new voting maps.
Doyle represents the 94th Assembly District, which will change to some extent and we talked about those changes and how representatives can best get to know their new constituents.
Before that, however, we complained about priorities the state could and should tackle if it were still in session, but the Assembly adjourned last week for the rest of the year, while the state Senate works one more day next month.
In the second half of the show, Doyle breaks down what the Civilian Review Board is all about. It was passed recently by the La Crosse County Board and will be more of what Doyle calls a liaison between people and law enforcement.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio talking about his new district, how the Legislature gives itself the next 10 months off and what still needs to be done.
We start the show with the ridiculous 60-degree weather but also what this lack of winter means for farmers.
Then we get into the Wisconsin Legislature having the next 10 months off and what Pfaff sees as a priority list of things that need to get done during that time. But that would mean calling the Legislature back into session, and if Pfaff sees that happening.
The second half of the show, we got into one of the big things the state still needs to work on and that’s PFAS “forever chemicals.” Pfaff talks about the Town of Campbell being on bottled water the last four years due to that and what the state could do to fight PFAS.
After that (27:15), we hit on a couple other priorities the Legislature could deal with over the next 10 months, instead of campaigning, which included childcare funding and tax relief.
Pfaff talks (30:15) about a property tax relief bill he’s proposed for working class that’s sort of a combination of income and property value.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Candice Tlustosch in studio discussing her run for judge in La Crosse County.
Tlustosch, an attorney out of La Crosse, talks about the big issues she sees in the courts, what could be improved and how her experience makes her the right fit for Circuit Court Branch 3.
Of course, we start the show with some nonsense and what lawyer-like TV shows are the best and worst, and her answer may or may not surprise you.
Tlustosch was appointed by then-Gov. Scott Walker to the District 5 bench in La Crosse County and served out that term. So, we also talked about the race being nonpartisan but also having hints of partisanship.
Tlustosch got her law degree in 2005 from the University of Wisconsin and has been practicing ever since.
Her opponent, current Branch 5 Judge, Mark Huesmann, was appointed by Gov. Tony Evers back in July to replace Judge Todd Bjerke, who retired.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio discussing the Wisconsin state Legislature being out of session the next 10 months, a look at the most famous person in La Crosse County, and the nonpartisan judge race.
Began the show with the legislative calendar and how Wisconsin’s full-time state Legislature is taking the final 10 months of the year off.
The Assembly’s last day was this week and the Senate will meet for one day in March.
So, we discussed how that might go over, hitting the campaign trail on issues such as PFAS and legalizing marijuana, while being a full-time Legislature that could actually legislate, instead of campaign with the promise to legislate. Does this give an advantage to Democrats, who don’t control the Legislature, or outside candidates who want to take someone’s seat?
In the second half of the show, we began with a story about how Joe Biden’s dog, Commander, has bitten an exorbitant amount of Secret Service members. What happens if we bit that many people?
After that, we talked about the judge race in La Crosse County between Mark Huesmann and Candice Tlustosch — who both recently were interviewed on the show — and how partisanship comes into play.
Then, we finally got into La Crosse County’s most famous person (27:50), and the most famous people in each Wisconsin county. Sadly, three of the top four spots are literal killers.
Ended the show with a message to Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers (32:45), and how he could use the state Legislature being out of session for the next 10 months to his advantage.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County administrator, Jane Klekamp, in studio discussing the new civilian review board of law enforcement, a bit of an update on the city-county homeless project, Pathways Home and details on the county board strategic plan.
Began the show, however, talking a bit about the spring elections, how every board member is up for election but also how the board works with the county administrator — as part of the ongoing theme where Klekamp describes how government works to talk show host.
After that, we hit on the county board strategic plan, how a consultant firm is going about it and just what might be some priorities with it.
In the second half of the show, started off asking Klekamp what the county could do with some of the state’s $7 billion in budget surplus.
After that, we got some dates and details into the Pathways Home project to end homelessness, and an optimistic outlook on how it might come to a conclusion.
Spent the last part of the show discussing some of the details on the citizens review board of law enforcement, which has been two years in the making.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two topics merged into one with Wisconsin’s billions in budget surplus and how schools get funded, as the La Crosse School Board this week voted to go back to a referendum for a new school.
Helping us navigate the two topics on La Crosse Talk PM is UW-Oshkosh Public Administration professor, Dr. Mike Ford.
We began the show having a bit of fun about why Ford last joined the show — if you recall the Joe Gow porn video scandal. After that, we got into Wisconsin’s budget surplus, which the Legislature has been mostly sitting on for over two years, and what the state should and shouldn’t do with it.
That led into a conversation about school funding, as La Crosse taxpayers could vote in the spring election to build a new elementary school. We also talked about how taxpayers pay for voucher school students and how Republicans in the Legislature are trying to propose a new way to pay for vouchers — but not use that same model to pay for public education.
Lastly, we spent some time on school boards, in general, and how local elections have become more politicized, despite being nonpartisan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Democratic Party chair of La Crosse County and Wisconsin’s 3rd US House District, William Garcia in studio, reminiscing about Spaceballs, after news of new Russian space tech, the GOP rolling back child labor laws in the state and if he wants Gov. Tony Evers to pass his maps.
Began the show talking about some potential new Russian space tech that could take out satellites, which got us talking about the movie Spaceballs.
After that, a challenger to US Sen. Tammy Baldwin in Wisconsin in Eric Hovde — a multi-millionaire with businesses in California.
We also talked some Wisconsin legislation both good and bad — rolling back child labor, allowing top high schools entry into UW colleges — and how new voting maps hasn’t really shown to change what things get passed that Gov. Tony Evers would sign.
And lastly, with the news maps, Garcia talks about whether or not he wants Evers to sign them.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio on the multiple angles how new voting maps plays out in Wisconsin, Donald Trump ordered to pay another $355 million and how partisan politics keeps trickling into local elections.
The whole show kind of centers around power in politics.
Began with Trump in that regard, as he loses another lawsuit. Trump’s argument is something like the system is going after him, while others argue this is how the system should work.
After that, Wisconsin Republicans’ power is about to be lessened, but by how much? They passed the Democratic governor’s maps and now the conundrum for Gov. Tony Evers is if he’ll sign them. What are the ramifications if he does or doesn’t?
Then we got into local elections becoming more partisan. Is that a result of the structure of the system to some degree?
La Crosse County Judge, and Branch 3 candidate, Mark Huesmann was just on the show last week — appointed by Evers. Next week, his opponent, Candice Tlustosch, who was a judge appointed by Republican Gov. Scott Walker. Is that political in a nonpartisan race, or just the system?
Beyond that, we talked about the county board races and the local political parties getting involved there, as well, both as candidates and with endorsements.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If no politician is completely happy and the fringes of both parties are mad, then it’s probably a good deal.
That sums up what Common Cause Wisconsin’s Jay Heck said Wednesday on La Crosse Talk PM, explaining the play by Republicans, who control the Legislature, to willingly pass Democratic Gov. Tony Evers’ voting maps.
Heck also discusses why Republicans went this route, instead of rolling the dice on flipping the Wisconsin Supreme Court in two years and challenging the maps with potentially a conservative majority there.
It’s obvious why this is good for Democrats and Heck talks about why it’s a great deal for voters, but he is floated the idea that these maps are also good for Republicans. There are, too, of course predictions on how the numbers will shape up and if Democrats can win a majority in the Legislature.
Common Cause Wisconsin is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that’s been working to hold “power” accountable through lobbying, litigation, and grassroots organizing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
National Weather Service La Crosse meteorologist Todd Shea in the studio discussing the ever-more common weird weather, a first-ever February tornado, no snow and how the job has changed. Shea has been doing weather in La Crosse since 1995 but he's been in the business since 1988. Part of what we talked about is the job itself, are there more or less people interested in the profession and how the profession has changed, even just in his time as a meteorologist. We also talked the first-ever February tornado to happen in Wisconsin — there were two a few days ago — and if these weird weather phenomenon are becoming more common. Lastly we got into a discussion about weather versus climate and whose responsibility is it to look into each of those things.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings in the WIZM studio Monday for La Crosse Talk PM, discussing new voting maps, ranked-choice voting, La Crosse Hometown Heroes being honored in Madison and bills she’s got hearings on.
Began the show talking a bit about winter tourism, with Wisconsin not having a winter.
After that (5:10), we discussed ranked-choice voting a bit, as it’s both getting a bipartisan committee hearings, as well as trying to be banned altogether by other Republicans.
Then we talked about Hometown Heroes (8:30) that Billings has nominated — UW-La Crosse Fine Arts Department instructors Joe Anderson and Mary Leonard Anderson — who will be honored Thursday in the state Capitol.
The second half of the show (19:30), Billings listened to a rant about car insurance, before we got into a talk about new voting maps, and how Republicans in the state are apparently considering agreeing to use the Gov. Tony Evers’ drawn maps.
Lastly (36:05), Billings has a couple of bills that could pass the Legislature. One having to deal with exempting minors from being charged with prostitution — because they’re minors — and another on Xylazine test strips. Xylazine is a new drug, typically called tranq.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Judge Mark Huesmann in studio discussing treatment courts, mental health, bonding out of jail and just what exactly a judge does.
We also talked about the drug problem in the county, the makeup of the court system and a veterans court that Huesmann helped create.
Huesmann is running for reelection for the Circuit Court Branch 3 seat he currently holds. He was appointed by Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers in July and took over in August for retiring Judge Todd Bjerke.
Former appointed Branch 5 judge and La Crosse attorney Candice Tlustosch is also running for the Branch 3 seat.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Political scientists, Marquette’s Dr. Charles Franklin and UW-La Crosse’s Dr. Anthony Chergosky, join Friday's La Crosse Talk PM to break down the latest Marquette Law School Poll, where we find Wisconsin voters don’t like any of the candidates, love marijuana and Nikki Haley would win the whole thing in a landslide.
Franklin is, what we call, the architect of the Marquette poll, which is one of the most prestigious in the country and one that all eyes look to, since Wisconsin is arguably the most important state to win in 2024.
Along with some of the poll results — Haley destroying Biden and Donald Trump even with Biden — we also talk about how these things compare to polls of the past. Plus, how some of the most important issues in the state are things many polled don’t know much about — like “redistricting.”
We started the show with Chergosky on just why this poll is so important and trusted. And, when Franklin joined, we had to throw some ridiculousness at him — like why there was no Taylor Swift question — and if he could throw all prestige out the window, what would he love to get polling on that, perhaps, isn’t political.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Onalaska native and North Carolina shooting guard Lexi Donarski joined to talk the rise of women’s sports and guarding the most popular athlete in the U.S., Caitlin Clark, and getting ready for Cameron Indoor Stadium and the Duke-North Carolina rivalry. After that WIZM’s Brad Williams talks about the new plan for the La Crosse School District.
With Donarski (2:15), we dive into how she’s lived through a lot of experiences that past athletes have not gone through — good and bad. That includes losing a potential state championship in high school due to COVID, playing as a college athlete through COVID, watching women’s sports rise to its most popular time in history, and what it was like guarding the most popular athlete, in Iowa’s Clark.
Plus, she’s about to play at Cameron against Duke as a member of the Tar Heels, a year removed from that Iowa-Iowa State rivalry. She’s also taken 18 summer credits to get her degree, then gone through the transfer portal, and we talk about trying to get her an NIL (Name, Image and Likeness) deal highlighting defense.
After that (20:05), Williams joins to talk about the recent decision by the La Crosse School Board to potentially put to a referendum building a new elementary school, instead of the plan that was studied for eight months to close Hintgen and North Woods. Is the school board trying to escape making a tough decision or are they doing the right thing putting the decision to voters?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A healthy conversation on what to eat and when to eat it Tuesday on La Crosse Talk PM with the YMCA’s Dr. Gretchen Newhouse and Laurie Nelson.
The two will be hosting a pair of nutrition workshops at the La Crosse Y on Thursday at 10 a.m. and 4 p.m. (sign up here). And, no, they won’t teaching you how to pig out during the Super Bowl.
The workshop will focus on the “timing of food” — when you should eat something before an activity and what you should be eating.
We did, however, have some fun with the idea, taking it another level with the Super Bowl. While marathoners need to think about what they eat heading into those 26.2 miles, what does the opposite of that look like? What do we need to do to prepare for a marathon of eating on Super Bowl Sunday?
Also, part of that workshop will be a bit about the La Crosse YMCA’s food forest and how this is the time to start thinking about gardening — and starting those seeds.
Newhouse is the wellness director at the YMCA, while Nelson, a registered nurse, is the Y’s Food Forest coordinator.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio discussing pickleball and beer — which is sort of on the council agenda — bringing developers into the city — as all those vacant box stores are filling up — and approving accessory dwelling units.
We began the show, however, asking Reynolds who he thinks the most popular athlete in the U.S. is right now, a few days from the Super Bowl.
After that (5:30), we got into some city council stuff, just touching the pickleball conversation for a bit, before discussing accessory dwelling units (ADUs or granny flats or in-law suites — basically converting your garage that isn’t attached into a living space. And, for some reason, we also worked in chicken coupe regulations into that conversation.
Then we started to get into vacant buildings in La Crosse (14:20). There used to be three vacant Shopkos, a vacant K-Mart and vacant box stores in the Valley View Mall. But then an argument about how to zone areas to better attract developers to the city.
The second half of the show (22:20), we got into the conversation about pickleball, and a company converting the Bridgeview Plaza Shopko into a pickleball facility and wants a liquor license — but a city committee last week couldn't approve it.
Quickly, we discussed the probability that the school district would have vacant buildings and if the city would want one of them.
Lastly, we talked about Wisconsin Gov. Tony Every state of the state address and one of those workforce topics being childcare, and how the city continues to see that as a need, though the conversation in the state legislature has died down.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Anthony Chergosky, Ph.D., in the WIZM studio, discussing how Republicans perfectly rigged new voting maps and Democrats screwed up the process, plus all the Taylor Swift political phenomenon and Democrat Dean Phillips getting on the Wisconsin presidential ballot.
Began the show with the Friday news dump from the Wisconsin Supreme Court, allowing Minnesota state Rep. Phillips on the presidential ballot, after the state Democratic Party tried to exclude him, unless he got the signatures. There was a very funny conversation on how strange Phillip’s argument was about the cost of getting signatures.
After that (5:40), the fascination of Taylor Swift in politics — though she has not really inserted herself, yet. But, we mention how Donald Trump just got into the Swifty conversation, and the conspiracy that Joe Biden rigged the entire NFL playoffs to assert the Swift Army.
After that (25:10), we discussed the consultants hired by the liberal-controlled Wisconsin Supreme Court throwing out the two GOP submissions for new voting maps and taking all the other submissions — and how Democrats should have had one group submit a ridiculously leftist map.
Lastly (34:00), back more funny Taylor Swift ridiculousness, including how she’s gotten the GOP to admit to climate change.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shaundel Spivey in studio, discussing the evolution and programs run by B.L.A.C.K., Inc., He’s the co-founder and executive director of the La Crosse-based nonprofit. We also talked about the La Crosse School Board and the Diversity, Equity and Inclusion fight in Madison and beyond.
Spivey is a Milwaukee native who moved here to attend UW-La Crosse, where he got his Bachelor’s in political science and a Master’s in Student Affairs Administration, and never left the city. He’s also working on his doctorate.
We talked about the evolution of B.L.A.C.K. and some of the programs it’s doing that he’s most proud of.
In terms of the school board, we got his perspective from his time there, but also how the upcoming election only has two candidates for three open seats.
We also hit on the fight — which is now over — in Madison, where Republicans coerced the University of Wisconsin Board of Regents into severely rolling back D.E.I. initiatives for already approved pay raises that were behind withheld and building projects that had already gotten bipartisan support.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joella Striebel, the public affairs regional coordinator for Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin, in studio on reproductive health, how to talk about it, a sex education bill, the abortion debate and free condoms.
Striebel, last week, organized a Gov. Tony Evers’ roundtable discussion with UW-Eau Clarie students last week. So Striebel recapped some of the things Evers discussed and what students had to say about reproductive health.
We also talked about the ongoing fight in Wisconsin over abortion access, as the Legislature debated last week imposing a 14-week abortion ban.That included this state Legislator comparing women to animals. Currently the law is 20 weeks, but that only came after a court fight that struck down the state’s 175-year-old abortion ban.
Also, other news happening in Madison, we talked about a sex education bill proposed called the Healthy Youth Act.
Began the show hitting on the abortion debate in general and how front and center it always seems to be in and some of the misconceptions of Planned Parenthood. That led into what Planned Parenthood Advocates of Wisconsin is about.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron in studio discussing some of their priorities, what police in the city are dealing with the most lately, some of the recent shootings and the prevalence of guns. We wrapped up with talk on more roundabouts here, plus changing back the speed liming on Losey Boulevard.
Began the show talking about police priorities, and some of the things they’re dealing with the most.
That led to a discussion about mental health and the new expansion of the co-responder units between city police and the La Crosse County Health and Human Service Department.
The second half of the show hovered around guns, as the city has seen two shootings — including one homicide — this month. Are guns more prevalent and how far do police go to find out where the guns are coming from.
Ended the show with talk about the five new roundabouts on the south side and how the public is handling those. Also, not that this was at all recent, but we also talked about how much police have to deal with people speeding on the 25 mph section of Losey Boulevard.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
City council members Mackenzie Mindel and Mac Kiel in studio, ahead of committee week, where they'll be discussing accessory dwelling unit (ADU) rules. We also talked chickens, selling Lincoln Middle School and a homeless update.
Mindel and Kiel are both on the city’s Judiciary and Administration committee, which meets at 6 p.m. Tuesday.
Began the show with a quick rundown, but did talk about chicken coup regulation quick.
After that (6:50), we discussed the recent sale of Lincoln by the La Crosse School District to a group that is looking to build affordable housing, and what that would mean for the city.
We also talked about Transit Equity Days (12:45) in the city, where riding the bus is free, and how Mindel and Kiel are taking council office hours during rides. We also discussed the city’s electric busses and, since it was so cold a few weeks ago, if there were problems, would the council know about it.
Speaking of cold, Kiel then gave us an update on homelessness (15:45) — as she goes out weekly with an outreach team. It also comes a few weeks after the city-county put out their five-year plan to end homelessness, called Pathways Home.
The second half of the show (19:25) consisted mostly of ADU talk, as the council two months ago put off any decision on changing regulations for property owners. In that time, the city held two public hearings on ADUs.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Threw UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, two strategies both Donald Trump and Wisconsin Republicans should have or, perhaps, still could take heading into the 2024 election.
Spent quite a bit of time on federal politics, including Donald Trump having to pay $83 million in a defamation lawsuit — what was deemed on the show as “Hush up” money, as opposed to the hush money Trump paid to porn star Stormy Daniels.
After that, we discussed Trump’s involvement in tanking a Congressional deal on the southern border situation and how that’s a GOP political calculation. But, that’s where Republicans have it wrong and where the first strategy in winning 2024 for Trump was thrown at Chergosky — even taking a shot at the latest cold open from Saturday Night Live, where it mimicked Trump.
Then, Wisconsin politics, involving the new voting maps, and this is the second strategy thrown at Chergosky, where Republicans could have rigged elections in Wisconsin forever, had they had their act together. This hovers around news a few months ago when the Wisconsin GOP proposed what they called the “Iowa model” for drawing maps.
Before all that, however, does gum stay in your stomach for seven years? That’s how we started the show. And, we ended in the same vicinity, where a story out of Lambeau Field lost and found — found many interesting things, including dentures. Who loses their dentures at a football game?
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Citizen Action of Wisconsin executive director Robert Kraig joined to discuss some of the details on Republicans’ fast-tracked effort to pass what they call Gov. Tony Evers’ maps, plus how they’re trying to put a binding referendum on ballot for a new abortion ban.
Began the show just setting up the interview on both issues, as well as talking quick about President Joe Biden in Superior, Wis., campaigning on the infrastructure bill he got passed by helping get a $1.8 billion bridge built.
After that, Kraig joined and we started with the voting maps issue. While we wait for the state Supreme Court to draw new maps or pick from seven submitted maps, Republicans have already chosen — saying they’ll take the maps Evers drew. Only problem, those aren’t the maps Evers drew.
Then we got into school funding for a few minutes, as districts across the state are continually forced to make cuts to balance budgets — as we learned the day before when La Crosse Schools superintendent Dr. Aaron Engel joined.
Wrapped up with Kraig talking about Republicans in the Assembly quickly passing a 14-week abortion ban — one that doesn’t have exceptions for rape or incest. The GOP want to put the measure on April’s ballot — which comes months after Republicans denied Evers putting an abortion question on the ballot and the state Legislature passing a bipartisan shared revenue bill that took away local communities’ ability to put any nonbinding referendum on a ballot.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Schools superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel, joins to talk about the news that the district sold Lincoln Middle School, what that deal encompasses and future building plans the school board is in the midst of discussing.
Began the show, however, talking about escalating world conflict, as Engel is a Lt. Col. in the National Guard — for 20 years — and battalion commander. So we talked a bit about how they prepare for everything from floods, riots to conflicts overseas.
After that, we discuss the group that bought Lincoln for $2.2 million and the plan for that historic building.
Then we get into some of the options the school board has been discussing for what’s called the district’s long-range facility plan. The hope is to make a decision on the next steps in that plan by Feb. 19 — after two more regular Monday school board meetings.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Habitat’s Kahya Fox in studio to discuss housing, including the city-county homeless plan and Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs), which is back on La Crosse agenda’s next week.
Two weeks ago, a five-year homeless plan was unveiled called Pathways Home, where the city and county have taken a leadership role, bringing in other related groups to help get to what’s called Functional Zero. Fox and herself have been involved.
Spent a good portion of the show on ADUs, which the city has zoning rules against. The city council, back in December, put a decision on rezoning off for 60 days.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio discussing the peculiar timing of a vote in the Legislature for the “Iowa model” of drawing voting maps. We also took a ton of calls on budget surplus, government priorities, and Pfaff proposals that aren’t getting committee hearings.
Began the show, though, talking about legislation Pfaff helped get passed renaming a portion of I-90 the “Ho-Chunk World War II Code Talkers Memorial Highway” in honor of the 14 WWII veterans from the Ho-Chunk Nation that have been recognized as Code Talkers. And, we discussed how these are sometimes the only things that government can do.
We then got more into the electoral college and how it’s not representing states in a totally different way — where a majority of campaign and ad money now only flows to the 50-50 states, like Wisconsin. That was a lead in to talking about the Wisconsin Supreme Court ordering new voting maps and the timing of which Republicans have now proposed a new way to draw maps.
We also discussed the budget surplus and priorities Pfaff would like to see it used for, plus legislation he has proposed that can’t even get a committee hearing. All while the GOP in the state is voting on 14-week abortion bans, a “parental bill of rights” and this new system to drawing maps — all things the governor has already said he’d veto it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio with a wild show that began intermixing potholes, rat burials and the 2011 Oktoberfest squirrel toss.
Then we got into some politics, including US House Rep. Derrick Van Orden upset and voting against the partial government funding bill, saying it's just kicking the can down the road. But what does it mean to "kick the can?"
That led to how this Congress is one of the most unproductive ever, but we do we blame for that — Democrats, who control the Senate or Republicans in charge of the House?
Then we took a quick break from politics to talk about what seems to be an amazing restaurant subscription but wondering about the fine print.
We ended talking about Wisconsin GOP US House Rep. Glen Grothman trying to use the federal government to pass a bill to talk about aliens — because he loved that as a kid, he said — but not in a way that seems productive.
And, speaking of unproductive, State Republicans are at odds with even being able to pass a medical marijuana bill, while Minnesota, Michigan, Illinois and Canada have all legalized it recreationally.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Adam Murphy, who we jokingly refer to as our political blowhard, joined last week, and we got into trolling on social media, the benefit of talking to both sides of the political spectrum, new Wisconsin voting maps, the not-so-productive US House, and the economy.
The conversation began with how Murphy, a Democrat, who ran for US Senate in Wisconsin, likes to get the perspective of Republicans — even meeting them at right-wing functions — and talk out issues with them.
Of course, later, we got into the standards at which we should be held and our politicians should be held, which led to a conversation about trolling on social media — where Murphy does so uniquely at former Wisconsin Gov. Scott Walker.
In between that, we talked about the GOP-led US House being one of the most unproductive in US history and why that is. We also got into “the economy” vs. the experiences of working class people.
Murphy has degrees in economics and political science from UW-Milwaukee. He’s also owns a small business, called Big Bang LLC in Milwaukee.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When it comes to local sporting events, things can sometimes be spoiled by just one or two fans. What can be done about it? Is it a problem that’s getting worse?
Keith Jereczek has been officiating college and high school sports in the area for over a decade. He stopped in studio to talk about those interactions from an official’s perspective, while we also brought in the WIAA Assistant Director, Kate Petersen Abiad, to get her take.
We looked at these situations from a couple different perspectives, including how a school handles these interactions, what to do when it’s an athlete or coach that’s unruly and, of course, the adult fans in the crowd.
We also talked about how difficult it is for officials, who are often held to a higher standard when dealing with these interactions, even though oftentimes it’s an another adult who is getting out of hand.
Does there need to be a change in fan culture and, if so, how does that happen?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Administrator Jane Klekamp in the WIZM studio discussing the city-county homeless plan, an expansion of the co-responder units with police and the inter-generational care center the county is starting.After rounding all that up, we talked quick about the upcoming La Crosse County Board races, where 20 of the 30 seats are contested races — but no primaries.
After that, we discussed one of Thursday’s agenda items for the board’s monthly meeting, which is expanding the city of La Crosse and county’s co-responder units — which are basically a team up of mental health workers riding with a police officer.
The second half of the show consisted mostly of the city-county unveiling its plan last week to end homelessness in La Crosse, called Pathways Home. Asked Klekamp what the biggest challenges in that plan would be, as the goal is to get homelessness in the city down to functional zero by 2029.
Lastly, we discussed one of the ways the county’s Hillview Healthcare Center is being expanded with what’s called an inter-generational center, where both children and seniors are together in, essentially, a daycare.
Earlier this month, the county sought input from providers that might be interested.
It’s part of a $19.6 million renovation and expansion of what used to be a nursing home.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US House candidate, Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Katrina Shankland stopped in studio to discuss what her priorities would be in Congress, debating Derrick Van Orden and how marijuana could be handled federally.
Shankland is one of three Democrats running, along with Rebecca Cooke and Eric Wilson. La Crosse native Tara Johnson dropped out of the race last week. Shankland also represents the 71st Assembly District in the Stevens Point area.
And that's where we started (6:00), with Shankland talking a bit about Johnson, as the former La Crosse County Board char's absence creates a void in the county for voters to turn to. We also hit on whether Republican House Rep. Van Orden will participate in a debate this year. He refused to debate last election.
Other things discussed included Shankland criticizing the lack of productivity out of the US House the past year and what her priorities would be, including passing a Farm Bill and fighting price gouging. We concluded talking about marijuana, as Republicans in Wisconsin proposed what would be the most restrictive medical marijuana bill in U.S.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, on La Crosse’s Tara Johnson dropping out of US House race, Wisconsin’s top Republican wants government-run healthcare, and feds clamping down on those “buckle-up” highway signs.Early in the show (5:35) got into a bit of a rant about winter weather drivers in La Crosse, which led to a story about the feds clamping down on those interstate highway signs that creatively tell you to “buckle up.” Are they useless? Can they better be utilized?
After that, talked quick about a $5 million lawsuit against Hershey’s (15:30) because it didn’t put faces on its pumpkin Reece’s Peanut Butter cups, which just seems to be channeling comic Mitch Hedberg’s Kit-Kat take.
Bottom half of the show (22:00) was a lot of interesting state and local politics, including Wisconsin Assembly Leader Robin Vos not trusting private healthcare — private business — to run medical marijuana dispensaries. It very well could open the door for any Democrat to start campaigning on private health insurance being run the same way — for profit.
We then weaved that into Vos, Wisconsin’s top Republican, facing a recall — not from Democrats — but from Republicans. That led to a conversation about the deadline for submitting new maps (32:00). Did the GOP rush in at the last minute with their version, after they argued to the state Supreme Court they didn’t have enough time to draw them?
Lastly, we talk La Crosse’s Johnson dropping out of the US House race (37:00), and how both Republican Derrick Van Orden and his opponents could do a better job at informing the public about what the House is doing.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
City of La Crosse homeless coordinator, Brian Sampson, in studio discussing the unveiling of a city-county plan to end homelessness called "Pathways Home." Sampson talked about the situation the city is in now, some of the things he's learned in over two years as homeless coordinator, and details in the Pathways' plan for the city to get to functional zero in ending homelessness.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia in studio, discussing the presidential primary that starts Monday, Hunter Biden, involvement in local elections, Wisconsin state politics and a reset in the DC Universe. Garcia is also the 3rd US House District chair. We began the show on why people might not be running in local elections. After that, some national political talk with who's left in the GOP presidential primary as the Iowa Caucus begins, Republicans in the House with Hunter Biden and what the fed government could accomplish in 2024. After that, state politics, with Republicans rolling out a government-run medical marijuana bill and Republicans trying to recall the state's most powerful GOP member, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos. Lastly, we got into Aquaman 2, and how it's the last movie heading into a much needed reset of the DC Universe on the big screen.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Tom Schlesinger, the executive director of Climate Alliance for the Common Good in studio, discussing their upcoming small business workshop in La Crosse, and why it’s beneficial both environmentally and economically to make this transition.
Climate Alliance is a La Crosse based group aimed at helping raise awareness and share solutions for individuals and organizations surrounding climate change.
The small business workshop takes place noon-3 p.m. Jan. 18 at the La Crosse Center. Register here.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio, as we discussed homelessness in the area, whether he supports ranked-choice voting and reasoning behind a lack of candidates in upcoming local elections. Began the show talking a bit about the city's snow emergency and, of course, the Packers making the playoffs. After that, it was what he's learned over the last three years about homelessness. In the bottom half of the show, we hit on the state Legislature's dueling conversations over supporting or completely banning ranked-choice voting, and whether the Mayor would support that for city elections. That also led to conversations both about local government rights and upcoming school board elections, and how contentious those have become. Lastly, we talked a bit about the plan to demolish the old Macy's at the Valley View Mall for a car wash and "quick serve" restaurants, including not a Popeye's Chicken — which is an ongoing joke on the show with the mayor.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in the WIZM studio Friday for La Crosse Talk PM talking about the Republican strategy in the Iowa caucuses and why there might be a lack of candidates in local races.
We began the show wasting no time diving right into the race to become the Republican nominee for president, with the Iowa caucus just 10 days out. WIZM’s Brad Williams also joined in on that conversation.
We also discussed how important debates are from the presidential level on down to local elections.That led to a discussion about the lack of interest in local races — not just from a voters’ perspective but from candidates, themselves.
The La Crosse School Board has three open sets — incumbents chose not to seek re-election — and only two candidates will be on the ballot. La Crosse County Board has 30 seats up for election and 10 of those will be uncontested.
No election on the spring ballot will have a primary.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Democratic state Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle joined to talk about the potential for new voting maps next election, work the Legislature can do in 2024 and Joe Gow being fired as chancellor at UW-La Crosse.
Doyle represents District 94 in the Assembly, which is one of the only contested districts in Wisconsin — something that might not be the case in the upcoming elections. It was part of the many facets of a conversation we had on the potential for new maps.
Before that, however, we began the show talking a bit about the A.I. committee he’s on, before getting into the Legislative calendar being done for the year by the end of March and how that isn’t very productive for a full-time Legislature.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A lot going on at the Universities of Wisconsin, and UW-La Crosse student Janasea Hameister joined to break it all down, from Joe Gow’s firing over online videos of him having sex with his wife, to DEI being stripped by the state Legislature, plus some things you probably haven’t heard.
Hameister is the managing editor at the UW-L’s Racquet Press and also a La Crosse city council member, representing District 5.
Lost in the Gow firing and the DEI “negotiation,” was a fight over D&I at UW-La Crosse, that Hameister helped explain.
Before that, however, we began the show chatting about a city council committee decision Tuesday to allow a real estate group to proceed with demolishing the old Macy’s at the Valley View Mall for three “quick serve” restaurants, a car wash and more parking.
After that, we intertwined the three things going on within the Universities of Wisconsin, including Gow’s firing as chancellor — and his apparent fight for freedom of speech — the UW Board of Regents caving to GOP demands to strip DEI initiatives in a negotiation over already approved raises and building plans that already had bipartisan support and, lastly, Hameister’s story on the Student Association being stripped of its D&I bylaws by UW-L.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gundersen dietitian Laura Birkel joined La Crosse Talk PM on Tuesday to discuss the annoying “diet” no normal person can sustain, is “Ozempic” and “Wegovy” weight loss drugs too good to be true, dangerous supplements and making your New Year’s Resolutions stick.
Birkel is in her eighth year as a dietitian — four with Gundersen Health System in Onalaska.
We spent, again, quite a bit of time talking about Ozempic and Wegovy, drugs that change your brain chemistry.
Also, had Birkel describe the “Mediterranean” diet, before I ripped on it for being unsustainable with most people’s lifestyle.
Then we hit on new trends. In the past five years, energy drinks may have been one of those, but Birkel has been getting a lot of questions on “protein drinks.” So, we discussed the positives and negatives of protein additives and the role of protein, in general.
Then we got into New Year’s resolutions, using tech to stick to your goals and we wrapped up talking about dangerous supplements out there and what to watch for.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts by searching La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings in studio to talk about the potential for new legislative maps, the odd fight over Diversity, Equity and Inclusion and 17-year-olds automatically tried as adults in the state. The last topic comes on the day a minor was arrested and in court for allegedly starting a fire at the Walmart in Sparta.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, joins to give us his Top 5 political stories out of Wisconsin, another Top 5 list of federal politics stories, most importantly, the Top 5 weirdest stories we've covered on this show in 2023.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent the hour talking about the firing of UW-La Crosse chancellor, Dr. Joe Gow, essentially for posting videos of he and his wife having sex with adult film stars. Dr. Mike Ford, associate professor of public administration at UW-Oshkosh, joined to help dissect the multiple layers to the firing itself and the fight that Gow wants to have with the Universities of Wisconsin over what sounds like a free speech issue.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse teachers’ union president, Jesse Martinez, joined to talk about the district’s building consolidation plan, upcoming elections, A.I. use and abuse in schools and the upcoming school board elections. Martinez is in his second year as La Crosse Education Association (the teachers’ union) president. He’s also a seventh grade science and math teacher at Logan Middle School. This is his ninth year teaching.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Common Cause Wisconsin executive director Jay Heck joins to help explain the Wisconsin Supreme Court's Friday news dump before a Christmas weekend of the biggest news in the state, that new voting maps must be drawn. We discuss why that decision was made. We also hit on the rhetoric from Republicans being both against the decision and trying to side step the entire process. Also, Heck argued in the Christmas spirit that this is a good thing for democracy, while accusing Solem of being Ebenezer Scrooge, saying the conservative-led US Supreme Court will wreak havoc on this all and nothing will get done.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Democratic US House candidate for Wisconsin’s 3rd District, Eric Wilson, stopped in the WIZM studio Wednesday for La Crosse Talk PM, as we discussed mental health, healthcare, climate and took a bunch of calls.
Began the show talking about the half-marathon he just ran last weekend to help raise awareness for mental health.
Next, we hit on how little the US House has done in its first year (9:45), and why Wilson feels he’d be more representative of the district than what’s currently in there.
That led to how campaigning is going (15:30), and what folks that he’s talked to, going door to door, are most concerned about — which included healthcare, housing and climate.
From there we got into a conversation about healthcare (16:30), which Wilson has a vast amount of personal and family experience in, and took quite a few calls in relation to that.
And, that’s where we ended the show, talking a bit about climate change (34:30), protecting water, electric vehicle infrastructure.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke in studio, discussing tracing a gun used in shootings — like south side killing of 15-year-old — the La Crosse County police oversight committee, streamlining court system, contesting tickets and the hung jury in the West Salem triple-homicide. Of course, we began the show with a bit of nonsense — what cop shows Gruenke likes to watch and how TV shows can exaggerate details cases, including a recent La Crosse murder. After that, we got into the hung jury in that West Salem triple murder (9:00), which began with a conversation about streamlining the court system and the oddity that we get 12 jurors to agree most of the time on a guilty-not guilty verdict. In the second half of the show (18:45), we talked a bit about how criminals coming through the court system are fairly damaged and how difficult it is to rehabilitate them. Then we hit on the southside killing of 15-year-old (22:10) and the investigation around how these teenagers — and with shootings in general — got these guns, and is there a better way to track the weapons. Next, we talked about a unique scenario a friend had in getting a ticket (28:00), which they thought was unfair, and what a person's right is to fight that ticket in court. Lastly, (37:10) we talked about the ongoing discussing in creating a La Crosse County police oversight (my name for it) committee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We got Kwik Trip on to talk about its $151 million expansion but, more importantly, Ben Leibl from the company joins (18:00) to explain to us if these plans mean that they will be building more stores right next to each other. Leibl works public relations with Kwik Trip, where it was announced the company was awarded an additional $15 million in state tax credits if it hits expansion and hiring marks. We also threw Leibl some other half-baked ideas (25:55) we've hashed out in the past on the show that Kwik Trip should be doing in La Crosse. Before that, however, La Crosse County Board chair Monica Kruse joined (00:00) to discuss the upcoming elections, this week's monthly meeting and an interesting five-year plan they're working on.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse entomologist, Dr. Barrett Klein, stops in the WIZM studio for La Crosse Talk PM to have some fun discussions about bugs, from his childhood ant sandwich to how grumpy bees need a nap or they won’t twerk just right.
Klein, who has an infectious laugh that shows up often, has been at UW-L for 11 years in entomology — the study of insects.
We began the show just bouncing around on different ways people think about insects and insect things happening — like the cicadas about to hatch in the area.
Then talked a bit about bugs as food, which led to Klein’s ant sandwich story. Over the summer he was in New York studying, not just bees, but bees’ sleep, so we spent quite a bit of time on them. We also discussed eating bugs and what ones are tastier fresh vs. canned.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Small business owner, economist, and La Crosse Talk PM’s official political blowhard Adam Murphy joined, as we discussed ranked-choice voting in Wisconsin, and how Republicans want to ban it, state taxes and electric vehicles.
Began the show, however, ranting about how people continue to drive down, what’s called the bike track on Second Street, even though the road is literally green and painted with bicycles.
After that, Murphy joined (2:10) to discuss the Wisconsin Senate getting a committee hearing on ranked-choice voting, what that would mean for those who go to the polls and how Republicans are trying to ban it for some reason.
After that (26:40), we got into a conversation about cutting income taxes in the state, as Wisconsin’s governor vetoed another GOP plan that greatly benefits the rich.
And, we ended the show (30:00) discussing some issues with EVs that nobody seems to be talking about.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Economist Adam Hoffer joined to talk about some big issues locally, including the La Crosse schools building plan, and the city council tackling short-term rentals, ADUs. But first, we talked about Wisconsin having billions in budget surplus for two years now, and how Shohei Ohtani gets a $700 million MLB contract while the state of Wisconsin pays $500 million to update the Milwaukee Brewers stadium. Hoffer is the director of excise tax policy at the nonprofit, Tax Foundation. He also talk sports economics at UW-La Crosse for a decade.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff joins to discuss the fight between Republicans and UW over DEI, should the state have ranked-choice voting and a year in review, plus what still needs to be done.
Of course, we began the show talking about Taylor Swift? But in regards to whether the Time Person of the Year would be able to have a concert at the soon-to-be renovated Milwaukee Brewers stadium for half-a-billion dollars.
After that, we got into the DEI (diversity, equity and inclusion) fight that Republicans have taken with the University of Wisconsin System / Board of Regents.
Pfaff gives his take on the negotiation and wonders why they’re even happening.
The negotiation, which is apparently over as of Tuesday, but Republicans wanted to:
- Cut DEI positions
- Create a “conservative thought” position(s)
- Create “student success” positions
- Drop an affirmative action hiring program
- Eliminate statements supporting diversity on student applications
Meanwhile, Democrats — as strange as it is to make this the partisan fight — want:
- Approved the UW-Madison engineering building
- Approve the raises to UW employees that were already promised in the GOP-created state budget that Gov. Tony Evers signed
Not part of the negotiation is the Phase II of the UW-La Crosse Prairie Spring Science Center, which has been on hold by Republicans for five years.
After that, we talked about some of the legislative wins that were accomplished in Wisconsin and Pfaff discussed what still needs to be done, also expressing his dissatisfaction that the Legislature only meets in session from January to mid-April in 2024, before calling it wraps and hitting the campaign trail.
Part of those legislative wins included an alcohol bill and agricultural road improvement program. What Pfaff said still needs to get done is something on child care, as well as PFAFs.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joins to discuss his trip to Dubai for the UN climate summit, tearing down the old Macy’s at the mall, council decisions on “ADUs” and short-term rentals.
Began the show, as we usually do, talking a bit about the Packers, before getting into Reynolds’ recent trip to COP28, the United Nations Climate Change Conference, where he was one of 30 mayors from the US to be invited. Reynolds was representing the Mississippi Rivers, Cities and Towns Initiative, in which he’s the co-chair.
After that, we talked about some city legislation, coming out of the “committee week” and heading into Thursday’s monthly council meeting. That discussion included some potential deregulation for what’s called “Accessory Dwelling Units” (ADUs), where residential properties could make unattached buildings living spaces. We also talked about the dueling legislation dealing with short-term rentals in the city. And, we wrapped up discussing the city’s role in a business group’s plan to tear down the old Macy’s at the Valley View Mall to add 100 parking spaces, fast food joints and a car wash.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A look at the ridiculous list of Top 10 holiday movies by state, the punishment for throwing your burrito bowl at the Chipotle cashier, how confident are men in landing a passenger airline, plus some politics with Wisconsin’s the fake electors lawsuit and how campaign ads and the electoral college go together.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Cherogksy, joins, as we finally start out light, with the top holiday movies by state, the Chipotle fiasco and a poll on landing a passenger airline — where one sex is extremely confident they can handle it.
After that, we get Chergosky’s take on if it was surprising that the civil lawsuit into the Wisconsin fake electors scheme was settled, and where that plot goes now.
Then we combined two not-so-related political topics, as Chergosky shows how dangerously related they are in the prediction that $16 billion in campaign ads will be spent for 2024 and how that relates to the electoral college.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Katrina Shankland is running for the US House of Representatives in Wisconsin’s 3rd District. The Democrat stopped in the WIZM studio to talk about how her 11 years of experience as a Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. is what’s needed to represent the district. We went back and forth on why she’s running, as well as what’s going on in Wisconsin government — and how some of the issues she’s dealing with in the state are also things that matter across the country. Shankland is one of four Democrats running in the primary, along with Tara Johnson, Rebecca Cooke and Eric Wilson. The winner of the primary will likely face Republican Derrick Van Orden, unless he is overtaken by a GOP challenger in a primary.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There’s an important election coming in 2024 and, no, it isn’t the one with two senior citizens on the ballot. Hannah Dull and Grant Mathu of the La Crosse Young Dems were in studio to discuss how important the spring elections are when it comes to local issues like closing schools and rent costs.
Began the show just talking generally about the group, before laying out how people shouldn’t get too sucked into the 2024 presidential election, before really paying attention to the county board, city council and school board elections coming up in the spring.
The La Crosse Young Dems is a new group that welcomes anyone from about the 18-40 age range but they really aren’t that picky. They meet at 6:30 p.m. the last Wednesdays of the month at the La Crosse County Democratic Party headquarters on State Road.
Email them here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We look at the housing situation and some key legislation going currently through city committees on short-term rentals and "ADUs" with Kahya Fox, the executive director of Habitat for Humanity of the Greater La Crosse Region. It's committee week in La Crosse and the city is looking at regulations on short-term rentals and whether to allow what's called Accessory Dwelling Units. We also couldn't come up with a better name for "ADUs," though Fox called them "Mother In-Law homes." We also discussed the crunch the city is in for housing stock, and how the city's population could drop below a key threshold which would make it ineligible for government funding. The city of La Crosse saw the biggest per capita drop in population across Wisconsin in 2023. We began the show talking about a Habitat program that allows homeowners to get help working on projects around their property, and we ended the show discussing how Habitat set a record for rebuilding and rehabbing homes, and how it's in the midst of a statewide public voting competition for a $15,000 award. To vote for Habitat La Crosse, click here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse City Council members Erin Goggin and Mark Neumann in studio to help explain and preview one of the city's biggest committees, Finance and Personnel. We discuss some of the budget items, like short-term rentals, what the F&P committee represents and how the public can get involved. Other agenda items we discussed broadly was the fire chief saving the city $800,000, a couple of lease agreements, and "public way vacations." In regards to short-term rentals we dissected, a bit, how both of the city's big committees work somewhat in unison on legislation, such as short-term rentals. The F&P committee meets at 6 p.m. Thursday at city hall and online.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio Friday for La Crosse Talk PM to discuss how penguins nap thousands of times a day, a development plan to tear down the old Macy’s for fast food and parking, and how we’ve already started the 2025 campaign season.
Began the show talking about the Valley View Mall, and a proposal discussed Thursday on La Crosse Talk PM to tear down the Macy’s to build a Panda Express, a Raising Cane’s, a carwash and more parking.
After that, an interesting story on demographics, where the city of La Crosse has seen the largest population decrease in Wisconsin. Where are those people going? North. Just a bit north.
Then we had a great call from Karen — not THAT kind of Karen — on WIZM’s Operation Poinsettia and how that brings joy to a lot of seniors like her around this time of year. She also suggested WIZM should bring animal rescues to them, as well. We still need a name for that, though, because “Operation Cat-Dog” doesn’t quite work.
Karen also brought up a funny story on penguins, which we had to get into, in how these animals take thousands of four-second naps a day. We also took a couple of our own “penguin naps.”
After that, we had to ask Chergosky if it’s ridiculous that former Republican Wisconsin Attorney General Brad Schimel has announced he’s running for state Supreme Court … in 2025. So, bypassing that little 2024 election.
That led to a discussion about “The Permanent Campaign," as the Wisconsin state Legislature — a full-time body — is out of session until mid-January and only working 3.5 months in all of 2024, before they hit the campaign trail.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's the Mac and Mack hour of La Crosse Talk PM, with city council members Mackenzie Mindel and Mac Kiel in studio to discuss legislation to demolish the old Macy's at the Valley View Mall and replace it with other businesses and look at multiple housing items, including an ordinance in regards to Accessory Dwelling Units (ADUs). Both Mindel and Kiel are on the city's Judiciary and Administration (J&A) Committee. With that we talked about how J&A, which meets the first Tuesday of the month, and the Personnel and Finance Committee, which meets the following Thursday, are the city's most powerful committees and how these are the meetings in which the public should be highly involved.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Farmers Union president, Darin Von Ruden, joined to discuss the federal Farm Bill that got kicked down the road and what small farm supporters should now be lobbying Congress to include. That led to talk about factory farms v small farms. We also hit on Wisconsin legislation on grass fed farms, as well as internet access.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County administrator Jane Klekamp in studio discussing potential county board strategic plan makeup, county priorities — like fixing roads — county vs. city governments, transparency, the DEI consultant's upcoming report and current survey and housing project grants.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle joined to discuss the governor using a fake email, how much is too much to fix La Crosse County roads, whether he’s running again in 2024 — as we make fun of his age multiple times — and the blasphemes question of whether legislators should get a raise.
We also talked with Doyle, a Democrat out of Onalaska, about the A.I. committee he's on and some things the state might need to do in various forms of education — in regards to A.I. and "fake news."
Began things talking about the holidays and, while Wisconsin doesn’t have a higher minimum wage, should the state make double-time pay mandatory for people who have to work on a holiday, like Thanksgiving.
From there we talked (7:00) about the county using $14 million next year to “fix the roads,” and whether that’s too much.
After that, we asked if he’s running in 2024 (10:30), before discussing the story that Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers using an alias email to conduct government business (13:05), and if the Legislature should pass some rules against doing that.
Concluded the show talking about my ludicrous idea of giving the state Legislature a pay raise or making it a part-time entity (23:30) and ended things discussing his work on the state A.I. committee, if a 65-year-old is the right man for the job in that regard (32:10) and what kind of education the state might need — with A.I. and fake news.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The architect of the Marquette University Law School polls, Dr. Charles Franklin joined, to talk about his creation, how its evolved and some of its latest findings, including the 2024 presidential election and the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
Franklin is a Professor of Law and Public Policy, as well as the Director of Marquette Law School Poll. We were also joined by UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky.
Chergosky began the show talking a bit about the latest Marquette Law poll and how polls have changed.
That conversation, of course, continued with Franklin throughout the show — how the questions are created and how the information is gathered from the public — phone and online.
Franklin told an interesting story on how the poll began in 2012, and how it may not have become as popular as it has, if the politics at that time had not been the way they were.
We then got into a conversation about the 2024 presidential election — and what the poll numbers show a year away from the election.
We also asked Franklin questions on poll results affecting Wisconsin, including how the state Legislature is perceived, how the lawsuit on district lines is received, Wisconsin’s two US Senators through the last election (Ron Johnson) and this upcoming one (Tammy Baldwin), and how the public feels about the Wisconsin Supreme Court expressing its personal opinions.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Keeping and attracting teachers to Wisconsin was a big part of this show with Christina Brey, the public affairs manager for the Wisconsin Education Association Council (WEAC).
We discussed some legislation WEAC has proposed, why rural schools are hurting worse for teachers and some ways the state could change to create better jobs for educators.
We also talked about a lawsuit over taxpayer funded voucher students that could possibly end that system in Wisconsin. With that, we discussed the double standard public and private schools have in the state and how much extra private schools cost taxpayers in the area.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings in studio, discussing ribbon cuttings for roundabouts, the end of the November legislative session, healthcare, smoking age and what it’s like at Thanksgiving dinner for a legislator.
Began the show talking quick about a busy Monday for Billings, who was at a ribbon cutting for roundabouts that aren't done yet and a few healthcare meetings.
That led to a conversation about civics and how legislators need to get up to speed on issues that aren't familiar to them.
After that, we spent a minute on the Wisconsin Supreme Court beginning hearings on the "rigged maps" lawsuit. After that, we discussed the smoking age, should vaping be legal indoors and if we could ban smoking indoors in today's political atmosphere.
In the second half of the we talked about the November legislative session, in what I like to call "cram" sessions. We also hit on healthcare/health insurance as open enrollment is underway and why not every politician isn't trying to make that a campaign issue. We also discussed how an extraordinary amount of Democratic bills had a floor vote — TWO out of 71 bills were Democratic, or 2.8%. That's nearly a 1% jump from last year, when only 1.9% of bills were from Democrats.
Ended the show talking about the Thanksgiving dinner and politics at the household of a state legislator.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kristie Tweed, from the group Citizen Action of Wisconsin, joined to discuss healthcare in Wisconsin, including legislation out there for a public option. Tweed, who is the Driftless Region organizer, also talked a bit about some climate solutions that Citizen Action is working on. Before that, however, we talked about Citizen Action represents and wants to accomplish.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio discussing, if you had to pick only one Thanksgiving food, third-party presidential spoilers and how Americans are divided on politics and self checkouts.
Began the show in holiday tradition, discussing all the best and worst things on the table during Thanksgiving — but like avoiding politics with family at the table, we avoided the divide on green bean casserole, as well.
After that, got into Wisconsin politics a bit on Republicans passing another “tax cut,” while a divided government got a $500 million Brewers stadium done.
The bottom half of the show dealt with an ethics report on US House Rep. George Santos and why he’s not kicked out of Congress yesterday, and how the parties should have a backbone to dismiss members that are breaking rules.
Then we got into former US House Rep. Ron Kind’s comments on the “No Labels Party” coming in as potential spoilers in the 2024 presidential election. But would their moderate candidate spoil it for Democrats or Republicans?
Lastly, self checkouts, are you for them or against them? The country, there too, is divided.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
School District of La Crosse Superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel, joined to discuss a committee's final report into the potential closing of two elementary schools — North Woods and Hintgen — why that decision came about and the next steps in the process.
This week, a community compiled Facilities Advisory Committee (FAC) released its final report on school consolidation, after eight-plus months of work.
Engel discussed the factors the district is facing in needing to consolidate, as well as the factors the FAC took into account in coming to its final conclusion.
We also talked about the next steps, which include public comment sessions on Nov. 27 (online) and Nov. 29, at the Hogan Administrative Center (map), as well as what the La Crosse School Board has in store over the next few months leading up to a potential decision to close the two elementary schools.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A two-guest Wednesday, as Lisa David Olson dropped by the studio to talk about talking and her upcoming book release. After that, city councilman Mark Neumann joins to discuss the passage of the La Crosse 2024 budget, that includes a tax increase.
With Olson in studio, we discuss, of course, the book, called, “From the Spotlight to Real Life,” and how the Nov. 25 launch isn’t just some boring book signing — it’s an improv show from 2-4 p.m. at the Pump House in downtown La Crosse.
Olson has built a public speaking career on how to speak — but not just to the public or in public, but in every day life, too.
After that, La Crosse city councilman Mark Neumann joins to talk about the 2024 budget that passed Monday at a public hearing that saw just one person from the public talk.
We discuss some of the details in and out of the budget and why taxes are going up about 8% — up around $105 per $150,000 of property tax value.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The accomplishments for the UW-La Crosse football team have piled up, and Eagles coach Matt Janus took a few minutes off from watching game film ahead of the first home playoff game since 2006 to tell us about this team. UW-L is ranked fourth in the country, 9-1 overall and one of four top seeds in the playoffs, led by his dual-threat quarterback, what we learn is "The Alien" at wide receiver, and "The Joker," the guy with the funny hair, that leads this defense. We also discuss beating UW-Whitewater for the first time in 19 seasons and what's scary both about UW-L and its upcoming opponent, Minnesota-Morris (7-3).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Went down multiple rabbit holes Friday with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in regards to Joe Biden being on the 2024 ballot, the Marquette U poll being trusted and how to stay nonpartisan.
The first rabbit hole was about Green Party candidate Jill Stein announcing a 2024 presidential run, where she’s been for the past seven years and where a candidate needs to start to run for office. It stems from Eric Wilson, on La Crosse Talk PM the day before, running for US House in the 3rd District with no prior experience.
After that we talked about the Wisconsin state Legislature’s, what I like to call cram session, where a hundred bills get passed and the public can’t keep up. But we contrasted that with the very public way the $517 million Milwaukee Brewers stadium deal is being handled in the public’s eye.
After that, we discussed how Chergosky has to walk the line of non-partisanship. That conversation began with polls, including the Marquette University Law School poll — how it’s one of the most trusted — and how else we could get the public’s take on issues — like polling the Joe Rogan podcast audience.
Also, we discussed polling on the 2024 presidential race and — at the end of the show — whether we should be voting for judges. The poll conversation included how Nikki Haley beats Biden by a landslide but can’t beat Donald Trump, and whether it’s productive to believe someone with name recognition will run against Biden in 2024.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Eric Wilson in studio to tell us what his passions are in running for the US House of Representatives in Wisconsin's 3rd District. We scratched the surface getting to know the Democrat, which led to a giant discussion on a need to change healthcare in the country. Not only did he suffer a giant health issue, his father is also battling cancer. We also talked about traversing the 3rd District and how he gets his name out there and his message heard. Wilson is an Eau Claire native, a graduate of the University of Wisconsin with a degree in economics, who played in the UW Marching Band. He works in digital product management, as well as mortgage loan rejuvenation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio discussing voter turnout and re-election, as well as housing, including short-term rentals, and the 2024 budget process.
Began the show talking a bit reminiscing about the first-term mayor’s election and the low — but typical — voter turnout and what his thoughts are on re-election. That included how college students — or any group — could sway a local election with a larger turnout.
After that, we got into the city’s budget process a bit, rising property taxes and differences between how the city and county budgets are funded. We also talked about if that system needs to be changed, as the city has been discussing cuts to services.
Also discussed housing, as Reynolds has said over and over that a lack of housing is the city’s biggest dilemma. The council is looking at regulating short-term rentals, like Airbnbs, but we talked about how the state limits a local government’s ability to do much.
Lastly, we hit on where the city is at allocating it’s estimated $22 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding, as a couple of groups have asked the council for additional money, including the city’s Arts Board.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County administrator Jane Klekamp in studio to talk about the 2024 budget, including spending $14.6 million on roads and the upcoming public comment session. We also discussed the difference between the county's and the city of La Crosse's budget makeup. Wrapped up talking about what the county is doing to help with childcare.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joins to talk about dismissing the facts you don't like, the A.I. we consume unknowingly and how we should fine people for bad parenting in public. Began the show, though, talking about more impeachment talk by Republicans in Wisconsin and how it's just this perpetuation of 2020 election lies to retain power in the state. After that, we talked quick how this would have been the first year of permanent Daylight Saving, which led into the weird workings of the US Senate, also retaining power, like how Republican Tommy Tuberville is holding up hundreds of military promotions. After that, we have "Certified Organic" stickers — or we used to — but do we need "Certified A.I." stickers on things we consume online? Wisconsin is working on some regulation there, but is it enough? Lastly, we talked about this Georgia restaurant that fines people who are being bad parents. So, we break down just how that would work in regards to the mishap, the age of the kid and the amount a fine should be.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Farmers Union president Darin Von Ruden in studio discussing the expired farm bill, big farms v. small farms, the giant loss farmers see in consumer spending and how much you pay a kid now to pick rocks. The farm bill expired in September and Congress has yet to pass a new one or some kind of continuing resolution to keep the status quo. Von Ruden noted it doesn’t appear to change much but would love to see huge changes to it. We also got into how for every consumer dollar spent, a farmers’ piece of that has gone from $.44 in the 80s to $.14 now, and why that is. Von Ruden is a third-generation farmer and now produces organic dairy. He has been the union president for 12 years.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US House candidate Tara Johnson joins on a Halloween evening. She put up with the half-baked idea of having adult trick-or-treating and what that would look like, while also talking about some of the scary things about the US House of Representatives. Spent the first half of the show trying to have some fun with the holiday. The second half was more devoted to some of the revelations over the past few weeks about the current state of the House and speaking generally about those bigger issues reps in DC could tackle. Johnson was the first woman to serve as the La Crosse County Board chair — doing that nine years — where she was a member for 20 years. Before that, she was the executive director at the United Way in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Loggers co-owner Dan Kapanke in studio, as the deadline approaches for the public to submit potential team names for the softball equivalent to the Loggers. We also talked about the state's $545 million plan to upgrade the Milwaukee Brewers stadium. Began the show hitting on those topics quick, as well as the situation in the Town of Campbell, where they've been on bottled water for nearly three years because of PFAS. Kapanke is the board chair. After that, we talked where we're at in naming the softball version of the Loggers, as the deadline for the public to submit to LaXSoftball.com is Nov. 3. After that, we talked Brewers, as Kapanke is both on a business group to keep the team in Milwaukee and also has a somewhat similar deal on Copeland Park worked out with the city of La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political scientist, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio breaking down how we can get free beer, a US map of the most bought candy in October and what that tells us about Americans, plus some politics — what it means that Mike Johnson is House Speaker, and why he was unanimous — except Derrick Van Orden wasn’t present to vote.
Began the show, though, talking about a Minnesota state House Rep. announcing his candidacy to run against Joe Biden for president and if that’s news or not — because other people have also announced, but this is the first elected official.
Then we got into this map that shows what candy each state has bought the most around Halloween — with Wisconsin being very dull and other states completely baffling what should be reality.
After that, we dove into the GOP electing Mike Johnson as House Speaker. We discussed how that was the guy that got all but Van Orden’s vote despite Johnson’s far-right views, and why a more moderate member didn’t get the position.
Ended the show with, perhaps, the most Wisconsin of things — Kwik Trip giving out free beer. We didn’t really talk about why they did it, but we do explain what you have to do within the app to see the free beer offers — yes, plural, there are multiple free beer options.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Schools superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel, in studio, as we discussed potentially closing two elementary schools, how the transition to standards based grading is going and what to do as truancy is at an all-time high.
Began the show, though, just talking about how kids are hopped up on Halloween candy this time of year, and also asked Engel — a Battalion Commander in the National Guard — how and the unit he commands are feeling with the continued situation in Ukraine and the escalation of war in Israel.
In the first segment, we talked about truancy and why it’s continued to be at an all-time high in La Crosse at over 40 percent of students chronically absent — missed 10% of days. This is a trend that’s continued from last school year to now.
After that, we talked about challenges for students, parents and teachers with standards based grading, which was implemented for the first time this year at the high school level.
Wrapped up the conversation with school consolidation. The district’s Facilities Advisory Committee will hold its last of eight open-to-the-public meetings. The committee has talked of potentially closing two elementary schools — either North Woods, Spence, Emerson or Hintgen. We discussed the challenges with closing each but why it needs to be done.
The committee will submit its final report to the district on Nov. 2. There will be two public comment sessions on that report Nov. 27 and Nov. 29. In between that, Engel said he will discuss the report Nov. 16 on La Crosse Talk PM.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rebecca Cooke, Democratic candidate for US House in Wisconsin’s 3rd District, stopped in studio to discuss getting to voters on both sides of the aisle, issues on farming, unions and her opponent’s absence in DC as a new Speaker is elected. Cooke is one of five Democratic candidates running in the 3rd District to take on Derrick Van Orden, who we didn’t talk about until toward the end of the show. We did get an update on Cooke’s car she puts 100,000 miles on a year to campaign that didn’t have a/c all summer and apparently no rear window — at least for a bit. We also talked about how she tries to get to voters, both in terms of policy but also physically — because of how rural parts of the district are. Some of the issues she sees as important right now are ones dealing with farmers, as the US House let the five-year farm bill expire back in September and hasn’t put forth a new plan, as well as labor issues, especially when dealing with unions.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Habitat for Humanity of the Greater La Crosse Region executive director, Kahya Fox, joined to discuss the state of La Crosse housing, from renting to ownership, and what needs to be done. Among the things discussed was whether the city has too many rentals, what kind of housing should be prioritized and what city and county officials can do to spur development. Habitat, this year, set a record with putting 12 families in homes, where owners have to put in 150 hours of “sweat equity,” meaning they have to spend that amount of time helping rehab their new property. The previous record for Habitat was six. Habitat is always looking for volunteers in a number of different areas. More info here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio talking brandy old fashioned as the state drink, the fight over helping with childcare and the Senate not confirming Gov. Tony Evers’ appointees.
Began the show there, with the appointees, as Pfaff has personal experience in that he was fired as the state’s ag. secretary after 11 months on the job because Republicans didn’t like that he said the state should release funding for farmers’ mental health.
After that, we hit on the ins and outs of having the brandy old fashioned as the state drink. This comes a year after we debated a state cheese.
Spent the bottom half of the show, first, talking about the US House of Representatives and why Pfaff chose not to run.
Then we dove into the debate in Wisconsin to subsidize child care and what Republicans in the Senate have proposed.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio Friday for La Crosse Talk PM to discuss how Wisconsin was left out of the Top 50 burgers conversation, who considers themselves midwest, US House Rep. Derrick Van Orden heads to Israel, an Oprah-Mitt ticket and Brewers funding vs. child care.
Started the show with Van Orden putting out a statement that he’s gone to Israel on a “fact-finding mission.” But it comes in the midst of House Republicans trying to elect a Speaker, so it can actually do any governing, let alone help resolve the Mid-East situation.
Speaking of “mideast,” the US doesn’t have one, but it does have a midwest, and there is some confusion as to who lives there. We dissect a recent poll on that.
Before that, happened, though, we did talk about this upcoming book that said Oprah Winfrey floated the idea to Mitt Romney that they run for president.
Later, we ripped on a Top 50 list of the best burgers in the US, that contains no burgers from Wisconsin or Iowa. There’s also a Top 25 Wisconsin burgers list, that’s very Madison-Milwaukee based, which was disappointing.
After that, we spent a minute trying to hash out why the only way Dolly Parton wants to be contacted is via FAX.
Ended the show on how Wisconsin’s state Legislature is prioritizing funding the Milwaukee Brewers stadium, but split on how to help with child care.
Show notes:
— Derrick Van Orden leaves for Israel.
— Brewers stadium funding.
— Who is "midwest?"
— Dolly Parton via fax only.
— Student thinks she's going to U of Miami, ends up in Oho.
— Oprah Winfrey-Mitt Romney ticket.
— Top 50 burgers in the US, but no Wisconsin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
First it was a state cheese, now it's a state cocktail. Wisconsin Assembly Rep. Jill Billings was in studio to talk about these ever important issues and the process to which we see them go through the Legislature. We also discussed the irony that a legislator would propose debating what the state cocktail should be, when issues that deal with child care, transgender rights, defunding the UW System and using $545 million to update the Milwaukee Brewers stadium are major issues right now. And we did talk a bit about the Brewers deal, as well as a couple of things Billings is involved in, including what's called Steve's Law, in regards to hunting, and whether UW-La Crosse will get a new parking ramp.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We deep dive into the La Crosse budget with city council member Mackenzie Mindel. We also had to get her take on changing speed limits on County B and if she supports new legislation to save the Kmart and Hatched (Blue) Baby. Before she joined, Hunter Elsen from La Crosse Parks and Rec. joined quick to talk about the Pettibone Haunted Mile, which happens Friday evening.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Our political blowhard Adam Murphy joined to talk about a concept we've brought up on multiple shows recently, the shrugging our shoulders at political extremism, which is happening in real time at DC and Madison. We got into Republicans unable, again, to vote on a House Speaker, after taking a long weekend off. We also dove into the Wisconsin GOP admitting in court filings their firing of the election administrator wasn't legal, but they did it anyway because "symbolism." And we got into using $545 million in taxpayer money to fund the Milwaukee Brewers stadium. For some reason, however, we started the show rehashing Murphy's failed campaign to go against Ron Johnson in the US Senate and why Democrats, in general, lost that race. Murphy is a small business owner of Big Bang LLC in Milwaukee. He holds degrees in economics and political science from UW-Milwaukee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Believe it or not, those Nigerian Prince email scams are still out there. They're just better and use A.I. now. That was one of the things we discussed with Jay Haapala, who runs the AARP fraud awareness program in Minnesota. He joined to talk scams and fraud, as a bit of a preview to an event they'll host next week in La Crosse. We also talked about Facebook Marketplace frauds, the lack of law enforcement to go after these groups and just who is it that's getting taken advantage of — because it's not who you think. The LaX Scam Jam event, which is free, runs from 8:30 a.m.-noon Oct. 24 at the Radisson downtown and will include expert speakers and local resources. It also includes free breakfast, but you must register at the AARP website.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bring back Kmart. That was the theme Friday with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio, in discussing the delay the city council gave developers of the Kmart lot and how we need to save the building. Three-Sixty Real Estate Solutions is getting another 18 months to bring their development plan online. But, if that doesn't happen, we began talks of a grassroots movement needing to start building its base now to save the building. Also dropped another big story within that conversation in how we could work Hatched Baby, the 9-foot statue of a blue baby's head coming out of an egg, into this movement. Ended the show talking about how Wisconsin state politicians are falling over themselves to be responsible using $600 million in public money to update the Milwaukee Brewers stadium. Began the show talking about two Congressmen embroiled in controversy and how they don't get thrown out of the US House or Senate because of thin margins. But, one of those controversial figures is also the Senator of New Jersey, where one of the last two Kmarts exists, so we talked of how he may be important to this Kmart movement.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia in studio discussing a Wisconsin GOP anti-trans bill, reports of another Derrick Van Orden outburst. We also talked evil Star Wars and hell houses. After that, Meagan Waddell talks about recreating Thriller video in La Crescent. Began the show simply talking about William's role — he's also the 3rd US House District Dem chair — but that led into a meeting he's hosting about Republicans test running autocracies in the state. And then we got into some Star Wars, with Ahsoka just concluding. After the break, we talk about the Wisconsin GOP anti-trans bills in regards to sports. The second half of the show was a bit about reports of Derrick Van Orden's latest outburst during a White House press briefing. And, we ended talking with Waddell's fifth annual Thriller remake in La Crescent, which anyone can participate. Just search Thriller Parade on Facebook. It all culminates Oct. 29.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse city council member Barb Janssen joined the show to talk about the ongoing budget talks, where the library has already stated its closing the south side branch, police and fire are seeing cuts, and a pool could be on the block in a few years. Janssen is in her seventh year on the council and represents District 3. She talks about some of the reasons for why this is happening and what the city might have to do for a few years going forward.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Central High School Spanish teacher John Havlicek joins to discuss proposed teaching bills, how per pupil state funding is way behind — despite Gov. Tony Evers 400-year plan — standards based grading and sharks giving new meaning to water hazard on golf courses. Began the show running down the eight bills proposed in Madison by the state teacher's union and then discussed the school district's transition to standards based grading. After that, we talked about how per pupil funding has lagged in the state for over a decade and will continue to do so, despite Gov. Tony Evers' veto trick to boost it for the next 402 years. Ended talking about sharks on a golf course and touching on each of the aforementioned (and below) teacher bills.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayor Mitch Reynolds joined La Crosse Talk PM on Monday to discuss city’s budget process and what looks to be cuts in regards to police, fire, libraries and pools. We also talked about how he’s involved in protecting the Mississippi River from piping water to the west. Before we got into any of that, however, we did open with sports, including UW-La Crosse beating UW-Whitewater for the first time since 2005. In regards to the compact (10:50), Reynolds is co-chair of the Mississippi River Cities and Towns Initiative (MRCTI) and one of the talking points we hit on was this notion of a water pipeline to water-starved Arizona. After that, we talked about Monday’s Board of Estimates meeting (21:00) and how the city will have to make some sacrifices, including possibly closing the South Branch Public Library, potentially closing a swimming pool down the road, and some cost-saving measures within the police and fire departments, including leaving open positions unfilled.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An emotional support alligator at a Phillies game has become more shocking than Donald Trump sharing nuclear submarine secrets with some foreign billionaire. That about sums up the show with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky. Just how society can shrug off the unprecedented things happening politically — the US House Speaker ousted or a former president on trial. We also discussed the Wisconsin GOP bill to give $614 million of public money to fund the Milwaukee Brewers stadium upgrades.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about a lot of things with Wisconsin Farmers Union president and organic dairy farmer, Darin Von Ruden. The conversation ranged from the fight in Congress to get a farm bill passed, which should have been done last weekend, to how much money goes to the farmer when we buy products off the store shelves. The farm bill talk ranged from milk pricing going back to 1937 — can you say $10 gallons of milk — to having a freshman member of the US House in Derrick Van Orden on the ag committee, and where the priorities in Congress lie — as the House Speaker was just ousted. We also hit on the monopolization of parts of the farming industry and the incentives to using land for farming vs. solar.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse baseball coach Chris Schwarz joined to talk about the MLB debut of Caleb Boushley. The 29-year-old Boushley, a Hortonville, Wis., native, played for Schwarz back from 2015-2017. This is the second-consecutive year Schwarz has seen one of his former players get to the Majors. Last year, it was Holmen native Taylor Kohlwey. Boushley debuted for the Brewers last Friday, entering in the eighth inning with a one-run lead against the Cubs. Schwarz tells the story, as he and about 400 other friends and family of Boushley's, including "the whole town of Hortonville," were in the stands. Before that conversation, though, we had to rant about Giannis Antetokounmpo living over a decade in Wisconsin and never having a bratwurst, plus Katrina Shankland enters the race for US House in the 3rd District, to unseat Republican Derrick Van Orden.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's committee week in the city of La Crosse, and council member Chris Woodard joined for a bit to talk about some agenda items he's going to be seeing, including a delay request on construction of the old Kmart on State Road. We also discussed a mental health clinic wanting to open on Jackson Street. After that, did a Rick's comment on Scott's Comment about Oktoberfest and then talked about some teaching bills that the Wisconsin state Legislature could look at.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County administrator Jane Klekamp in studio to talk about the inner workings of county government, the $19-million Hillview project and the upcoming 2024 budget. The conversation hovering around government came up a couple of different times, including how the county and the city work and some of the work the county board does in bringing things to the table. One of those things is the Hillview Healthcare Center remake, which passed the board. We talk about how that came to be and what Hillview might look like when its all done. We also hit on the 2024 budget and how that's shaping up
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A couple of Oktoberfest legends, Dave Ring, Brad Quarberg, joined to talk about the year La Crosse's Oktoberfest didn't sell beer. Yes, that was a thing, and it was part of a Top 5 list Quarberg deemed, "Five things you didn't know about La Crosse's Oktoberfest." Others included the time the Oktoberfest medallion was held hostage and that year there wasn't a Festmaster. Ring was the 2013 Festmaster, while Quarberg is our unofficial Oktoberfest historian and was the 2016 parade marshal. He was chief editor of the book The Fest of Times — a history of La Crosse Oktoberfest’s first 50 years.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Covered a lot of topics with Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff, from banning politicians from parades to a bill he introduced capping insulin costs at $35 in Wisconsin. We also hit some of the layers to Republicans looking to impeach both a state Supreme Court justice that was just elected to the Wisconsin Election Commission administrator. After that, we hit on solar farms vs farmland in Wisconsin, and whether he agrees with the $700 million for Milwaukee Brewers stadium upgrades.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Peggy Manson joined La Crosse Talk PM on Thursday, just a few hours after she, her daughter and their dog Roscoe found the Oktoberfest medallion. It's something of a family tradition for them, and the second time doing so in the past 16 years.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Peggy Manson kicks off the show, leaking to the world just how you find an Oktoberfest medallion. After that, La Crosse County and 3rd CD Democratic Party chair William Garcia on everything from Madison to DC in politics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tara Johnson, candidate for US House of Representatives here in Wisconsin’s 3rd District, joined La Crosse Talk PM on Wednesday to discuss, of course, why she’s running. We also may have come up with a campaign slogan, plus we talked choice and some local issues to take to DC. A big part of the conversation was about healthcare and, in there, we may have the pitch every candidate should be using on the issue: “You Don’t Have To Think About It Healthcare.” Johnson, the first-ever female chair of the La Crosse County Board, told a personal story about how her family was struck with medical emergencies, and how someone in a different health insurance position may not have had the same outcome. We also talked about choice, where she told another story how that’s affected her and her family, as overturning Roe v Wade sent Wisconsin back to the 1800s, where a 174-year-old abortion ban law went back into effect until just recently. Before we got into all that, though, we did spend some time on the state of the House right now and how local issues here could and should be tackled in D.C. Along with being the first-ever board chair — doing that nine years — Johnson served on the La Crosse County Board for 20 years. Before that, she was the executive director at the United Way in La Crosse. Johnson is one of three Democrats, so far, running in Wisconsin's 3rd CD, along with Rebecca Cooke and Aaron Nytes. The seat is currently held by first-term Republican Derrick Van Orden.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle joins, tells a very interesting story from last week’s voting session. We also talked about the state of politics in Madison, the game of impeachment and rigged maps. Doyle began the show talking about last Thursday’s voting session, where he had COVID and Republicans almost had an Assembly supermajority, which would allow them to veto override just about everything Gov. Tony Evers has managed to accomplish. This is where the harmonic "groan," comes into play. After that, we discussed the continuing fight over a $4 billion budget surplus and how nobody is legitimately negotiating. Ended the show discussing the multifaceted game of impeaching a newly-elected state Supreme Court justice, using bias retired justices to justify that action and throwing an entire new system of drawing maps into the mix, with no public hearings and 48 hours for the Assembly to vote on it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A three-subject show today, including a conversation about abortions with the president and CEO of Planned Parenthood of Wisconsin. Also talked about the F-35 that went missing somewhere in South Carolina and the Wisconsin GOP plan to give the Brewers $614 million for stadium renovations. After a bit about the F-35, Tanya Atkinson, the aforementioned CEO, joined to discuss PP resuming abortion care after a judge ruled Wisconsin's 174-year-old abortion ban, essentially, isn't legit. We discussed why they made the decision and what women in the state have to go through in Wisconsin based on a harsh 1985 law that's taken effect. After that, talked more about this missing F-35 jet, which cost about $80 million. But that's a drop in the bucket compared to what Republicans want to give the near-billionaire owner of the Milwaukee Brewers to fix up the stadium.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio to help try and break down some of headliners coming out of Madison, with the GOP trying to backpedal on impeaching a newly-elected justice. We also chatted about when your boss sends "that" email. Didn't waste a ton of time getting into Wisconsin Republicans' plans all surrounding the idea that they could lose some power by the 2024 elections. The GOP is simultaneously trying to impeach the newly-elected liberal state Supreme Court justice, create a system to redraw voting maps to subvert that impeachment and getting at least one bias opinion from a retired judge on how to move forward ridding Justice Janet Protasiewicz. In between that, we discussed the nerve-wracking email you'll get from your boss saying "we need to meet," and the etiquette in how that communication should happen. We also spoke briefly about Hunter Biden and US House member Derrick Van Orden's statements on impeaching Hunter's dad.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Political science professor emeritus, Dr. Ed Miller, of UW-Stevens Point, an expert in Wisconsin's history of political maps and the state Supreme Court, joins, as Republicans on the Legislature vote to adopt a new system for drawing districts, while at the same time discussing impeaching a state Supreme Court justice that could rule and force the current maps to be redrawn. The unveiled system is touted as the "Iowa model." Miller explains the Iowa model — its advantages and flaws — and how this Wisconsin GOP plan is different. Assembly Speaker Robin Vos unveiled with a news conference Tuesday, calling for a recess in the middle of a voting sessions. He then gave the Legislature 48 hours to vote on it with no public input.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Rep. Jill Billings joins to discuss the childcare legislation Republicans will pass that isn’t going to help childcare centers, and we also talked how the Assembly leader threw a redistricting model at the Legislature with no notice, no public hearing and 48 hours to vote. Didn't waste much time getting into the childcare conversation, where the Assembly will vote on what I call "childcare factory farm" bills. Some deregulate the centers to allow 16 year olds to watch other children, while other bills just allot parents or centers to take out loans for money they don't have and can't get. After that, we talked about the Republican attempt to change the entire way Wisconsin's voting maps are drawn — thrown at the Assembly mid-session with no notice and no public hearings and 48 hours to vote — all because the conversation over the GOP impeaching a newly-elected state Supreme Court judge isn't going over so well.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Our, what I like to call, political blowhard, Adam Murphy, joined for the hour to dive into a couple of interesting topics, including high schools needing to be more political, YouTube rabbit holes, the Wisconsin GOP "tax cut" and new faces in politics. And that's where we began, with a "tax cut" plan that lumps people making between $18,000 and $400,000 into on group. Murphy pointed out how this will use up the $4 billion budget surplus but cost the state $2.5 billion in federal funding. We then talked about faces in politics, as a new GOP candidate from Trempealeau County is running against Democrat Tammy Baldwin in the US Senate. After that, the idea that schools need to be more political, but it's not what you're thinking and, along those lines, the YouTube rabbit hole conversation was incorporated in. Murphy is the owner of a small business in Wisconsin called Big Bang LLC. He also ran for US Senate in 2022 for the Democrats in Wisconsin, and holds degrees in economics and political science from UW-Milwaukee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio, deep diving on whether La Crosse should have a city administrator and the city's future budgetary shortfall, as the 2024 budget is being cultivated. Began the show talking a bit about the past two weekends at Riverside Park, before delving into the budgetary situation in La Crosse. Also discussed, a bit, the potential for putting a mural on the La Crosse Center and if the city should sell out naming rights for the Civic Center. The last half of the show was spent on the pros and cons for La Crosse having a city administrator.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We went off the cuff comparing action heroes and politicians with William Garcia, the Democratic Party chair of La Crosse County and the 3rd US House District. After ranting a bit about what Wisconsin Republicans are trying to pull off with impeaching a newly elected state Supreme Court justice, we dove into a real dilemma — where are the fresh faces in action heroes and politics? The conversation began after bringing up that 83-year-old Nancy Pelosi is running for re-election in the US House. And, while we seemingly have geriatric representation in our government, from the episodes of 81-year-old Mitch McConnell and 90-year-old Dianne Feinstein — not to mention who's running for president — we may have an even worse problem in the action hero department. Tom Cruise (61), Denzel Washington (68), Harrison Ford (81) — all three of these are or were starring in action movies in theaters in the last month.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A pair of guests joined to talk about some past and upcoming events in the La Crosse area. First, Carey Hagge, Explore La Crosse's director of tourism and events, came on to talk about the city's first-ever, not two, but three "big boat" stops at Riverside Park over the weekend, including a one-of-a-kind floating Navy museum that stormed the beaches on D-Day. After that, Coulee Region Humane Society executive director Heather Drievold joined to get the word out on the over 300 animals they're trying to get adopted, as well as some fundraisers coming up, including Rounds for Rescues.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Center Board president Brent Smith joins to talk about a number of things, including the consideration of putting a War Eagle steamboat mural on the outside of the building. Smith has been on the board for over three decades. Along with the mural consideration, we talked about the changing identity of the Civic Center, a few years removed from a $42 million renovation/expansion. We also discussed the age-old question: Why aren’t there more concerts? One other thing we talked about was the decision by the board to continue having the Civic Center be run by Jay Odegaard, director of the La Crosse Parks, Recreation and Forestry department over having a private company handle day-to-day operations.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Education Association president Jesse Martinez joined for the hour to discuss a host of things, including a new grading system that's being implemented now at the high school level — standards-based grading — and the positive affects of voters recently passing the operational referendum. We also talked about the political battles that happen at the expense of public schools and a bit on the most recent budget passed in Madison.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio, to discuss the politics heating up in Wisconsin, as Republicans try to impeach the newly-elected state Supreme Court Justice before she's even heard a case. We spent most of the time discussing this fight, including the GOP using $2 million of taxpayer money to fight the lawsuit. We also hit on the 1990s concert Chergosky attended, featuring the Gin Blossoms and Sugar Ray and, of course, we had to hit on the Minnesota state fair for just a minute.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two great guests Thursday on two totally unrelated topics. First, UW-La Crosse graduate Grace Koch joins to talk about a study she did on the toxic chemicals that children interact with on playgrounds that are made up of that tire "mulch." Koch's study helped lead the city to convert Crowley Park into wood chips, but many school parks remain with the rubber surface. After that, UW-La Crosse archivist Laura Godden is in studio to talk about the history of the War Eagle steamboat that remains sunk just north of Riverside Park in the Mississippi River. The La Crosse Center Board is considering a War Eagle mural on the side of the building. Is there a better option?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A couple of veterans — Rick's dad, Rod Solem and Ken Rupp — joined the show, as we preview the WWII-era LST-325 now docked at Riverside Park, about ready for tours through the weekend. Ken is an Air Force vet and tour director for the LST. Rod is a Vietnam vet that served on the Hancock Aircraft Carrier (CVA-19). Ken talks about the history of the ship and what visitors can expect. Rod tells a really interesting story about the Hancock leaving Vietnam.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dan Kapanke, co-owner of the La Crosse Loggers, and Adam Hoffer, Tax Foundation director, joined to talk about the Milwaukee Brewers stadium funding situation.
The Brewers, which lease the stadium essentially from the state, and the Wisconsin Legislature are negotiating stadium upgrades that are hovering between $290-$400 million.
Kapanke is part of a coalition of business owners promoting keeping the Brewers in Milwaukee, while Hoffer taught sports business at UW-La Crosse for a decade.
We discuss whether this debate is political, if tax money to renovate the stadium is good economically — or should we let the rich owners renovate the stadium? — and how the Loggers and the city of La Crosse have worked out a similar deal.
The Brewers are also spending over $500,000 lobbying the Legislature to get a deal down, so we dissect what that might look like.
I also threw three half-baked ideas at the two, including selling the stadium to the Brewers for $1 and building a new stadium altogether because of its awkward current location and the price tag to renovate.
Wisconsin continues to sit on $4 billion in budget surplus going on 19 months. With that, one more half-baked idea I threw out there was how — with that surplus — the state missed out on buying the Milwaukee Bucks.
The Bucks went through a similar fight back in 2015 to fund a new arena and won, but their situation is a bit different because the team owns the arena. The team just sold to the Cleveland Browns owners, who bought a 25% majority stake in the team, valued now at $3.5 billion.
STORY LINKS
Politcaly motivated?
https://wktysports.com/2023/03/09/wisconsin-republican-says-brewers-stadium-funding-plan-dead/
Brewers lobbying state Legislature
https://wktysports.com/2023/08/08/brewers-spent-600k-in-2023-lobbying-for-hundreds-of-millions-in-public-funds-for-stadium-renovations/
Owner optimistic a deal can be reached
https://wktysports.com/2023/08/28/brewers-principal-owner-is-optimistic-about-stadium-negotiations-wants-to-keep-team-in-milwaukee/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio to talk about a slew of things, including funding projects for both the Brewers and UW-La Crosse. We also talked his upcoming candidacy and the 90th anniversary of the Coon Creek Watershed Project. Began the show talking about how Republicans in the state haven't funded Phase II of the Prairie Springs Science Center at UW-La Crosse for the past five years. After that, Pfaff talks about the Coon Creek project, that has to do with soil erosion and washout in the area. Then we discussed the debate into funding the Brewers stadium. Another couple of topics discussed that the Legislature could take up dealt with continuing the Office of School Safety and helping childcare centers, as the state continues to sit on $4 billion in budget surplus for 19 months now.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A riot of a show with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio, breaking down GOP debate in terms of being in Milwaukee, what teens from one of La Crosse’s sister cities thinks of us and another round of state fair foods — Minnesota edition. That's sort of where we began the show, and debated on whether Wisconsin or Minnesota's state fair is better, what the highlight is of each and the new foods unveiled in MN this week. After that,we discussed Donald Trump's 215 pound weight in the best fashion, before getting into students from a La Crosse sister city visiting. Ended the show just rehashing the GOP presidential nominee debate in how Wisconsin was references, being it's so important to winning the presidency and it was, of course, in Milwaukee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dietitian Laura Birkel joined La Crosse Talk PM last week to break down dairy v. plant milk, what to eat before the big game, and the new weight loss drug, Ozempec, among other things. Birkel has been a dietitian for seven years, the last three of which at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse. We spent quite a bit of time trying to decipher the news surrounding the diabetes drug, like Ozempic, that more and more people are taking simply to lose weight. Do the frightening headlines people see about the drug have any basis in reality or are they just headline porn? Also, with school starting and high school and college sports getting back into full swing, we discussed some of the things people should eat before the game — whether that’s the night before, hours before or right before playing. We also talked about dairy v. plant milk, if sparkling water is good for you and how bad is cheese, really?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Superintendent Dr. Aaron Engel joined and we got right into it with school starting next week, teacher raises, truancy on the rise, selling Lincoln Middle School and consolidating elementaries.
Began the show talking about truancy, as it was higher than it had ever been last year, and what the district planned over the summer to bring that number down.
After that, we discussed the new state budget and how that affected the district. Part of the budget was an increase of $325 per student for the next 400 years, put in place through the governor’s veto pen. There was a lot of outrage over that funding but it sounds like it still isn’t enough.
We also talked quick about where the district is with school meal debt, before getting into some of the building situations its dealing with.
We talked about the process of elementary school consolidation through the Facilities Advisory Committee, which is a little over halfway done with its studies. We then discussed the sale process for Lincoln Middle School and how the district wasn’t happy about it getting a historic designation, just as it was being listed for sale.
SHOW LINKS:
Facilities Advisory Committee
https://www.lacrosseschools.org/facilities-advisory-committee/
Lincoln Middle School historic designation
https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/07/13/historic-status-for-lincoln-middle-school-upheld-appeal-by-la-crosse-school-district-denied/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Marquette University political science professor, Dr. Philip Rocco, joined, as we deep dived into Wisconsin politics, including the governor controlling messaging and how that might be bad for the state and why things like childcare and mental health are divisive. Began the show on the broader range of politics Rocco studies, which includes demographics, the census and how population and politics relate. We ended the show kind of on the same note, as Wisconsin hosts the first GOP presidential debate, the Republican National Convention, and putting so much emphasis into a state that’s predetermined to be “swing” but why. In between that, we rehashed the state’s shared revenue deal, how that came to be and how it might be undone under certain aspects because its unconstitutional. And then got into the upcoming special session Gov. Tony Evers called, which Rocco says Republicans will ignore (again) and the reasoning behind that — justified or not — leading, again, into that whole "Who should control the messaging?" in Wisconsin politics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County administrator Jane Klekamp joins to discuss the 2024 budget, as well as some recent county board actions, including child card grant funding just approved. Began the show, though, with a little civics lesson on just how something makes it to the La Crosse County agenda. After that, we discussed recent board actions, including the $500,000 child care grant funding, a pilot housing program called "Family Keys" for welfare-engaged families, as well as some added road use for ATVs and pulling weeds in Lake Onalaska. After that, we discussed the 2024 budget, which should be around $200 million and just how that process works. Ended the show talking about the recent broadband committee and where the DEI consultant is at with her county study.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Began the show talking about a potential mural for the side of the La Crosse Center before being joined by two guests on two very different topics. William Garcia, the La Crosse County Democratic Party chair, led things off, talking a bit about President Joe Biden’s visit to Milwaukee and then the upcoming GOP presidential debate next week. After that, Lyndsey Langer from the Junior Chamber International – La Crosse (the La Crosse Jaycees) came on to discuss a big need they have for running the Toys for Tots program. They’re about to lose their storage facility and are looking for a new home. You can get a hold of Langer through Facebook here or on their website here. Before that, however, ranted about the story that there could be a giant mural on the side of the La Crosse Center of the War Eagle and, of course, we had to propose some other, ridiculous ideas for potential “art.”
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Laura Runchey from Alliance to Heal joined to educate us a bit about drug stigmas, the problem with fentanyl and where/how people can seek help. Runchey is the coordinator at Alliance to Heal and a health educator with the La Crosse County Health Department. On the show we talked about quite a bit about fentanyl in a couple of different ways, including what it is, how it's a problem for those on drugs, but also some misconceptions we hear for those who might come into contact with it. We also discussed overdoses, how they've been rising the past few years in La Crosse County and what to do if you encounter someone overdosing (after calling 911). For those who need help. Runchey talked about ways to do that in the community and the challenges groups that do help are having right now.
Alliance to Heal and the Coulee Recovery Center are hosting a couple of events this month, as Aug. 31 is International Overdose Awareness Day (IOAD). Those include:
Aug. 22: Coulee Recovery Center
— Bridging the Gap event: Treatment Service Resource fair
Aug. 30: Coulee Recovery Center
— Candlelight Vigil service
Aug. 31: Proclamation by Mayor Mitch Reynolds on IOAD.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jeremy Novak with Three-Sixty Real Estate Solutions joined the show to discuss the Copper Rocks development, which is the former Kmart lot next to one of La Crosse's busiest intersections. Last time Novak joined, he talked about plans to tear the Kmart down. That hasn't happened, so we ask why, and what's in store for that lot. We also discussed some other properties Three-Sixty has developed in the Coulee Region.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talking science with Spencer Wilken, including the US government revealing they have “aliens,” a big “question mark” found by the James Webb telescope and our recurring segment of breaking news from decades ago — a headless chicken lived 18 months.
Began the show, though talking quick about the Perseids meteor shower that happened over the weekend, before getting into the government revelations on aliens, but mostly we rip on the terminology — UAPs, biologics and unknown unknowns — and technology, as we spend nearly a trillion dollars on the military but can’t get cameras to take quality video of any UAPs.
We transitioned that talk into Russia about to land back on the moon for the first time since the 1970s, but they, too, sent peculiar photos from space showing both the earth and moon in a shot. And, speaking of space photos, that led to a conversation about the James Webb telescope finding a literal question mark in space.
Wrapped up the show with Mike the Chicken — a headless chicken that lived for 18 months and toured the nation.
SHOW LINKS
James Webb question mark:
https://www.livescience.com/space/james-webb-telescope-discovers-giant-question-mark-galaxy-in-deep-space
Mike the (headless) Chicken:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mike_the_Headless_Chicken
Unidentified Aerial Phenomenon:
https://www.nasa.gov/feature/faq-unidentified-aerial-phenomena-uapsufos
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A rollercoaster Friday of a show with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, from deep diving about what Republicans should run on, to the outrageous regulations in the Irishfest mashed potato eating contest and an amazing story about toddlers destroying a Waukeshau park.
Began the show talking about how Republicans stick with ideas like the election was stolen, while two weeks ago the national talking point for the GOP just switched to promoting early voting. That turned into a conversation into why Republicans take non-political issues and make them political and, in doing so, lose young voters when, perhaps, they don’t have to.
After that, we lightened it way up, talking about the Irishfest mashed potato eating contest, it’s set of rules and regulations, its many divisions and how the outcome of the contest itself is determined. Then we went off the rails after a tweet out of Waukesha that police had to stop toddlers from destroying a park — with their overflowing poop diapers.
We ended the show talking quick about Culvers being upset about delivery apps, and just whether or not you should do takeout from there.
SHOW LINKS:
Poop-tastrophe:
https://twitter.com/WaukeshaAlerts/status/1689774133872062465?s=20
Republicans appealing to voters strategy:
https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/politics/elections/2023/08/09/wisconsin-republicans-seek-inroads-with-youth-voters-ahead-of-first-2024-presidential-debate/70499563007/
Culvers delivery:
https://www.jsonline.com/story/news/politics/2023/08/09/culvers-wants-regulations-for-food-delivery-services/70549967007/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We often talk about the doom and gloom of climate change, and we did today, with Dr. Tom Schlesinger, the executive director of La Crosse's Climate Alliance for the Common Good. But also discussed, was how we, the "little guy," can help make an impact to slow climate change. We hit on a little bit of everything from the oceans to El Nino (happening now) vs La Nina (happening next), to greenhouse gases. We even hit on how the big corporations are converting to more sustainable practices, not just out of the goodness of their hearts, but because it's better business. We capped that discussion off with how everyone else can get involved, and that's where the Climate Alliance has put out a Small Business Toolkit, which we break down.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings joined to discuss the news that Gov. Tony Evers is calling a special session for a number of things, including a funding plan for child care centers. Billings was also invited to the White House to discuss the same matter. So, we asked her if she's talked with US House Rep. Derrick Van Orden about getting federal legislation passed in terms of childcare. Meanwhile, Wisconsin is still sitting on a $4 billion budget surplus, going on 18 months now. How should that money be spent? In those same regards, we talked about UW-Oshkosh being $18 million in debt and where UW-La Crosse sits. UW funding was also part of Evers special session. But will Republicans actually debate or gavel in and out in seconds like they've done 11 other times? Other topics including what the state should be doing in terms of gun reform. Should there be laws on ghost guns? Oh, and Billings also let us know if she'll be running again in 2024.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joined to discuss a couple of different topics that are all intertwined. Reynolds noted the city's biggest priority is housing, so we talk about some of the development projects going on, what the city's role is with promoting housing and how more homes will help the homeless. We also got an update on the city-county initiative to create a 5-year plan to bring homelessness to functional zero. In the midst the conversation, we also discussed Wisconsin being on an island in terms of legal marijuana, while Republicans in the state are perhaps starting to move in that direction — maybe.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Cherosky in studio discussing weird state fair foods — including a million-dollar idea — a taco bell lawsuit that could bring down fast food and political messaging that deters young voters. Began the show talking about how literal kittens are working at the hardware store in Houston, Minn., which led to Chergosky breaking down Wisconsin’s latest jobs report. After that, we got into the list of foods at the Wisconsin state fair, and whether these vendors are trying to sell great food or weird us out. Then we got into the oddity that no Republican wants to run against US Sen. Tammy Baldwin in the state, despite Ron Johnson just winning that same seat last election. That led into a conversation about young voters, how much they pay attention to politics and whether they’re turned off by political messaging. Lastly, we discuss the Taco Bell lawsuit dealing with the picture you see versus the food you get, and Chergosky’s money making idea he may just implement at the La Crosse County corn roast in West Salem on Aug. 30.
SHOW LINKS:
Wisconsin state fair foods:
https://wistatefair.com/fair/Food-Category/new-foods/
Taco Bell lawsuit:
https://www.cbsnews.com/news/taco-bell-lawsuit-beef-ingredients-mexican-pizza-crunchwrap/
No Republicans offering to run against Tammy Baldwin
https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/08/01/still-no-republicans-running-against-sen-tammy-baldwin-in-wisconsin-after-rep-tom-tiffany-pulls-out/
US jobs report:
https://apnews.com/article/economy-jobs-inflation-federal-reserve-def1e5500e2852bf8ec3621b7270cd61
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We pick La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke's his brain on a few things surrounding weed possession — now legal in Minnesota — and where did the gun come from in something like the mass shooting that happened in the city last month. We began the show, though, getting an update on a dead body found along the Bud Hendrickson Trail. After that,we spent a few talking about some of the terms floating around having to do with former President Donald Trump, including "grand jury" and "Indictment." Then we got into a couple different things surrounding marijuana, including how authorities determine whether your under the influence and how long that stays in your system — a bit different than alcohol. Also, the city of La Crosse has a $1 fine system for those caught with less than 25 grams of weed. But what if you're caught every day with that amount? After that, we talked guns, and some of the cases recently involving guns, including that drive-by shooting where the assailant threw the gun onto a roof, and downtown killing, where the killer made what's called a ghost gun, from scratch, by buying all the parts online.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With Minnesota legalizing recreational marijuana, it's likely that it will make its way to La Crosse, where driving under the influence could increase. So, La Crosse Police Sgt. Danny Mandujano joined to discuss how police determine DWI (driving while intoxicated), and if it's harder to recognize if someone's under the influence of drugs versus alcohol.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jim Mathy, Milwaukee County's housing administrator joins to discuss, what he calls a homeless crisis in La Crosse. We talk about what Milwaukee has done over the past decade to bring their homeless population down. We also get Mathy's opinion on what La Crosse has done so far and what it might consider to help get people off the streets and into housing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in the WIZM studio, discussing everything from the Derrick Van Orden outburst, and whether he's going to run for US House, to childcare and healthcare costs, to his wanting to buy an old Ford Ranchero or Chevy El Camino.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio discussing the fallout from Derrick Van Orden’s teen tirade, an $870 billion defense bill and Chick-Fil-A conveyor drive-thrus. Began the show, however, talking quick about Minnesota legalizing recreational marijuana, before we got into the Van Orden discussion. For those who don’t know, Van Orden cursed at Senate interns for taking pics of the US Capitol on their last day of work. After that, we hit on the defense bill that both Tammy Baldwin and Ron Johnson — the world’s most opposite politicians, who just happen to be from the same state, voting together on the same bill — signed on. We took a political break and talked a couple of food stories, including Subway offering free subs for anyone that changes their name to Subway,” French’s and Skittles teaming up for some disgusting promotion, and the whole Chick-Fil-A conveyor idea. Lastly, picked Chergosky’s brain about Third Party candidates in the presidential race and how they could spoil it for either Democrats or Republicans. This stems from an argument with La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia saying the No Labels Party is simply created to put Donald Trump back into office.
STORY LINKS:
DERRICK VAN ORDEN:
https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/07/27/us-house-rep-van-orden-curses-out-high-school-aged-pages-for-taking-pictures-of-rotunda-says-they-treated-us-capitol-like-frat-house/
https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/07/28/while-derrick-van-orden-swears-at-teenage-senate-pages-for-taking-pics-at-capitol-state-rep-steve-doyle-loves-their-interest-his-daughter-was-a-page/
Skittles and French's team up
https://abc7chicago.com/mustard-skittles-frenchs-candy/13550617/
Free Subway sandwiches for naming self "Subway"
https://www.wfla.com/news/national/subway-to-give-free-sandwiches-for-life-to-one-person-who-agrees-to-legally-change-name-to-subway/
Chick-Fil-A conveyors
https://www.instagram.com/p/CvOMLqVtsTB/
$886 billion defense bill passage
https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/07/27/gop-sen-ron-johnson-signs-886-billion-defense-bill-despite-concerns-of-militarys-radical-left-social-agenda-and-wokeness/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Rep. Steve Doyle joins to discuss his golden retriever pups, the Derrick Van Orden incident cursing at teens and the amount of time the Legislature takes off. We also discussed some of the negotiations going on in Madison with tax cuts, childcare funding and we gave Doyle an idea in resolving the Brewers stadium funding. Began the show talking about the work the Legislature does while it's out of session, and whether or not it's actual work. After that, a bit about the breaking story that Van Orden was yelling at high school-aged Senate pages for taking pics, as Doyle has multiple experiences in this regard. Also talked about his five-week old golden retriever puppies — there's one left. After that, we got into how the work in both Madison and Washington is more about headlines and less about working out deals between parties. Part of that issue in Wisconsin is gerrymandered maps, so we also discussed the state Supreme Court flipping to a progressive majority and how that might solve some of these issues. Lastly, we talked specifics in terms of tax cuts, childcare and senior care funding and how to use the state's $3.5 billion budget surplus.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Coulee Region Wildlife rehabber Kathy KasaKaitas joins to talk about the work she's been doing with countless animals over summer. From opossums to ducklings to bunnies and owlets, KasaKaitas' work at the the rehab facility never slows. Among those animals, included an owlet that lost an eye and a punctured wing and opossum babies whose mother was hit by a car.
The wildlife center's Amazon wishlist can be found here:
https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/4BS0FP9CY27Q
The center's donation page is found here:
https://donatenow.networkforgood.org/crhswildlife
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crescent Mayor Mike Poellinger joins to discuss Minnesota legalizing recreational marijuana and just how that will affect the city. We also talked about bike paths in every direction out of La Crescent, and the city's upcoming 75th Applefest celebration.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County administrator Jane Klekamp joined to talk about the ambitious plans for the Hillview Health Care campus. The facility would go from, basically a nursing home, to an expansive center that includes a daycare, alternative senior living, bridge housing for adults and crisis stabilization. Klekamp also talked about fixing the roads.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, joins. We toy around with how the state might now spend — or not spend — it's $3.5 billion budget surplus. We also talked about Gov. Tony Evers joining La Crosse Talk PM and using the phrase "When donkeys fly." Also, we had about four Ron Johnson stories this week, including the Republican US Senator diving into all the conspiracy theories during a YouTube interview.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Adam Murphy, owner of the small business, Big Bang, LLC, joins and explains taxes for us a bit — in terms of the how we got a budget surplus, what to do with it and how a small businesses is affected by taxes. Before that, however, we talked about his showing in the World Series of Poker that just wrapped up in Las Vegas a few days ago. We also talked a bit about Wisconsin's US Senators, Tammy Baldwin and Ron Johnson, and what it takes now to run for those bigger political offices — and it's not just a ton of money, though news just came out that the Wisconsin state Supreme Court race cost over $54 million.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rebecca Cooke joins. She's running for a US House seat in the 3rd District here. We talked about her new job, waitressing, as she also runs a campaign. That led to a conversation about minimum wage. We also found out her favorite spots when she’s in La Crosse and discussed lived experiences that make her a good person to represent the area. On top of the new job, Cooke runs a nonprofit that helps women start up business. She was also a small business owner in downtown Eau Claire and grew up on a farm.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers join to talk about child care funding in the state. In between that, we asked the governor if the La Crosse area is his favorite part of the state, as he's been to Western Wisconsin 30 times this year already. We also get him to define what it means when someone says they're going "Up north." After that, La Crosse city council member Dr. Mark Neumann joins to continue the conversation about childcare, as the council just passed $400,000 in ARPA funding to help there. We also asked Neumann about the legislation passed last week that better defines camping — or no camping — in the city, as there have been complaints about homeless people in parks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo economist, Dr. John Robinson joins, to discuss inflation, a national minimum wage vs. a local minimum wage and an all-time low unemployment rate. Spent quite a bit of time on the minimum wage in various ways, including Robinson's take that the US doesn't even really have a minimum wage right now. Also talked about inflation — or when that becomes deflation — as well as Wisconsin's recent income tax plan, that the governor partially vetoed. Robinson is the interim Associate Dean of the College of Business Leadership Ethics and Education at Viterbo. The Central High School graduate and got his doctorate in finance from Arizona State.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio to break down Barbenheimer, Burger King’s 20-slice meatless cheese(burger) and the number of people that will run against Derrick Van Orden.
Began the show, though talking about Waukesha’s school board firing a first-grade teacher over he outcries about the board banning the song Miley Cyrus-Dolly Parton song, Rainbowland.
After that, had some fun talking about the phenomenon that people are going to see the new movie Barbie and Oppenheimer as a double feature. What kind of combo is that and how much popcorn can one person eat?
That led to a discussion about original movies or sequels — and what movies are untouchable. One of the movies brought up, along the lines of Oppenheimer, is Dr. Strangelove, who actually came into the studio to tell the audience they can never remake that 1964 classic.
We then got into some other politics, with Rebecca Cooke announcing her candidacy to run as a Democrat in the 3rd US House District currently held by Van Orden — and how many people might run. A big factor there, money, which eventually led us into a discussion about the North Dakota governor — running for president — offering $20 gift cards for $1 donations so he can buy his way to the Milwaukee GOP presidential debate stage.
Lastly, we talked about this 20-slice Burger King monstrosity.
SHOW LINKS:
20 cheese slice Burger King "burger":https://people.com/burger-king-thailand-meatless-burger-with-20-slices-of-cheese-7559683
Barbenheimer:
https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/07/14/the-story-behind-barbenheimer-the-summers-most-online-movie-showdown/
Rebecca Cooke running against Van Orden:
https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/07/10/rebecca-cooke-challenges-rep-van-orden-in-wisconsins-3rd-district-as-her-party-seeks-to-flip-house/
$20 gift cards for a $1 donation:
https://www.cnn.com/2023/07/11/politics/2024-fundraising-strategy-burgum/index.html
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Comedian Steve Hofstetter joins a week before his coming to La Crosse. A comic who dabbles in politics, we threw Hofstetter some of the headlines coming out of Wisconsin and let him work his comedic magic. Also joining in studio, former Riverfest board member Brad Pitel. Along with talking comedy, Pitel discussed bringing big acts to the fest, and how he big timed one country music star — which may or may not have led to his no longer being on the Riverfest board #Sarcasm. Some of the topics we threw at Hofstetter included Minnesota legalizing recreational marijuana and a first-grade teacher being banned over the Dolly Parton-Miley Cyrus song Rainbowland. Hofstetter also had some funny analogies on the Constitution, as well as some of his Canadian experiences, as he wraps up a tour there.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Country Boom co-founder Jon Holthaus joins La Crosse Talk PM to talk about this weekend's event at the Maple Grove Venues in West Salem, Wis., featuring some of the biggest country stars today. We talk about the lineup, how they also like to feature local musicians, and a bit of the history of Country Boom — including booking some of the singers a year in advance, before they're really "big time," and by the time Boom rolls around, they've got a top hit on the charts. Holthaus also talked some of the history of the event, now in its fifth year, including his casually saying they had to move the entire stage that first year, because 19,000 people showed up.
LINEUP
Thursday July 13
The Pat Watters Band - 6–7 PM
Blue Collar 40 - 7:30–8:30 PM
Jo Dee Messina - 9–10:30 PM
Friday July 14
Anderson Daniels - 4:30–5:15 PM
Megan Moroney - 5:45–6:30 PM
Warren Zeiders - 7–8 PM
Dylan Scott - 8:30–9:45 PM
Kip Moore - 10–11:45 PM
Saturday July 15
Lauren Watkins - 4:30-5:15 PM
Jackson Dean - 5:45–6:30 PM
Larry Fleet - 7-8 PM
Chris Cagle - 8:30–9:45 PM
Dustin Lynch - 10:15–11:45 PM
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse City Planner Tim Acklin joined to talk about the debate over Lincoln Middle School getting historic designation, but before that, Country Boom co-founder Jon Holthaus talks about the huge event in West Salem this weekend. Some of the interesting things we talked with Holthaus included booking guests a year in advance, and by the time Boom arrives, they're gigantic stars. Also, he casually mentioned having the move the entire stage the first year, because 19,000 people showed up. After that, Acklin, who sort of manages the Heritage Preservation Commission, breaks down how a debate will happen before the city council decides if Lincoln Middle should retain historical status. We also talked about why Lincoln got that designation in the first place. After that, Acklin talked more about the commissions Top 10 most endangered buildings, we threw him some new ideas for ranked lists, and we got his Top 3 most untouchable buildings in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
William Garcia in studio to talk about movie sequels, how Gov. Evers took the power of funding public schools from the GOP in Wisconsin, the tax cut plan that wasn't and Rebecca Cooke's bid to unseat Derrick Van Orden in the US House. Garcia is the La Crosse County and 3rd US House District Democratic Party chair. We began the show talking about how there are multiple sequels in theaters right now — Mission Impossible, Spider-Man, Indiana Jones and whatever garbage the Transformers is putting out — and then got into whether you should watch a subbed or dubbed movie. After that, we talked about Cooke for Congress, details in how that race might turn out in the 3rd Congressional and Wisconsin's gerrymandered maps. We then dove into Gov. Evers' veto pen powers in funding public education for the next 402 years, cutting up the tax cut plan (mostly for the rich) and how the state could better spend its $7 billion budget surplus.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-L outreach specialist Spencer Wilken in studio, breaking 1960s news again — this time about nefarious experiments on twins. She also delivered some space news, including finding the largest diamond and NASA’s biodome experiment for living on Mars.
Began the show recapping past “Major Breaking” shows from decades-old news, including the 1876 Kentucky meat shower and the 1950s Great Beaver Drop. That was a precursor to two other 1960s experiments — one about twins and triplets separated as infants — without consent — and then studied for years. Data that’s still being fought over by these subjects today. The other about creating a mouse utopia.
We also discussed a similar telescope to James Webb launching Saturday from Europe — and why the James Webb owns some sweet real estate above Earth, and we capped off the show talking about the Earth’s upper atmosphere is cooling, which apparently isn’t great news.
SHOW LINKS:
Mars biodome: https://futurism.com/the-byte/nasa-test-subjects-simulated-mars-base
James Webb pal: https://phys.org/news/2023-06-europe-space-telescope-universe-dark.html
Earth's atmosphere: https://www.wired.com/story/the-upper-atmosphere-is-cooling-prompting-new-climate-concerns/
Triplet experiment: https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/twofold/202110/the-controversial-study-twins-and-triplets-adopted-and-reared-apart
Mouse utopia: https://www.livescience.com/58257-milgram-experiment-poland-obey-authority.html
Largest-ever diamond: https://www.livescience.com/space/cosmology/this-collapsed-star-is-turning-into-an-gigantic-diamond-before-our-eyes
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio discussing whether government should legislate based on the Facebook comment sections, traffic shaming as an alternative to tickets, “Indiana Jones, really?” and the US Supreme Court.
The show began talking about movie remakes, like the new Indiana Jones movie that just came out, but that somehow led to a discussion about social media. In the past week, guests on La Crosse Talk PM have mentioned the comment section in regards to certain issues in the city, so we talked about whether that’s how governments should be taking the pulse of a community — and are public comments before city, county meetings just an older version of the comment section.
After that, we discussed a strategy in Washington where they’re public shaming bad drivers through letters and texts, but we honed it down to be more effective — including an idea from a caller.
We also talked about the recent US Supreme Court decisions, and threw Chergosky three different questions. One in how the court works — like how many hours a week are they putting in? Also, if the decisions are political winners or losers and we rehashed my conspiracy theory on the court can increase its dwindled popularity.
Lastly, we hit on Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers upcoming options on the state budget, which passed the Legislature this week.
TOPIC LINKS:
Supreme Court rulings
- Affirmative action in college admissions https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/06/29/divided-supreme-court-outlaws-affirmative-action-in-college-admissions-says-race-cant-be-used/
- Wedding websites for gay couples https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/06/30/the-supreme-court-rules-for-a-designer-who-doesnt-want-to-make-wedding-websites-for-gay-couples/
- Student loans https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/06/30/the-supreme-court-rejects-bidens-plan-to-wipe-away-400-billion-in-student-loan-debt/
Washington driver shaming:
https://dcist.com/story/23/06/23/dc-text-messages-letters-dangerous-drivers/
Wisconsin state budget:
https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/06/29/wisconsin-republicans-send-budget-state-to-democratic-gov-evers-after-assembly-passage-thursday/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Laura Godden, a UW-La Crosse Archivist and member of Heritage Preservation Commission, joined to discuss the city’s most endangered buildings, the controversy over making Lincoln Middle School a historic landmark and if K-Mart is next.
Began the show, however, talking about what being an Archivist is and the kind of things she’s seen, while working at UW-L. After that, we talked a bit about the city’s Top 10 most endangered buildings list and the thought process behind it.
The bottom half of the show, we dissected the Lincoln Middle School dilemma, where the Heritage Preservation Commission granted it landmark status, but the La Crosse School District is unhappy about that, because it is trying to sell the building. Godden breaks down why the district might actually benefit from historic status in selling Lincoln.
Lastly, we got Godden’s personal Top 10 Least Endangered Buildings list, which may or may not have had something to do with the food those buildings produced.
Top 10 Most Endangered buildings: https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/05/24/lincoln-hogan-schools-glory-days-bar-on-la-crosses-top-10-most-endangered-buildings/
Heritage Preservation Commission grants Lincoln historic status:
https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/06/22/la-crosses-lincoln-middle-school-gets-landmark-status-but-that-could-complicate-sale-of-the-building/
School Board wants to appeal Lincoln historic status:
https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/06/27/la-crosse-school-board-votes-to-appeal-historic-status-for-lincoln-school-building/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sherry Picah, owner of Sprout Childcare on the south side of La Crosse, joined to discuss the dilemma Wisconsin facilities and families are in, after childcare funding was cut out of the state budget. Last week, at 2:30 a.m., Republicans on the Joint Finance Committee voted to end what's called the Child Care Counts program — $340 million in funding the last two years that allowed facilities to stay in the margins. Picha talks about the repercussions from those cuts — the crunch that puts, not just childcare facilities in, but also families and other businesses. We also talk about what the next steps could be — would childcare facilities strike — and how important childcare centers are for those first years of a kid's life.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff joins. We discussed the discrepancies in the GOP tax cut plan, where top earners see a sizable tax break and lower income get about $2.67 back a month. We also talked about the Joint Finance Committee cutting a childcare funding and not implementing an equal replacement in the state budget. Pfaff also hints on some some amendments to the budget Democrats want to propose when the Senate votes on Wednesday. We did take some calls, as well, including a Town of Holland bridge being unusable right now and the plan to fix that.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
W-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joins La Crosse Talk PM to break down the GOP-proposed Wisconsin budget, Trump on top among state Republicans and the deal with lab-grown meat. Began the show, though, talking about Taylor Swift taking over St. Paul with a Friday night concert, where the cheapest ticket was around $800 and the most expensive just hours before the show was nearly at $10,000. Most expensive Taylor Swift ticket on Stubhub just hours before St. Paul show.
Spent quite bit of time discussing the tax cut plan put forward by Republicans crafting Wisconsin’s two-year budget, along with Brewers stadium funding and cutting childcare money that has created an uproar. And how that now kind of feels like it's being fast-tracked, despite a $7 billion budget surplus, because the top Republican has a work-cation July 4. Also talked about the Wisconsin GOP Party straw poll on presidential nominees. In between that, however, we discussed billionaires offering $127,000 to be dog nannies and two companies getting approval to sell lab-grown chicken. But the latter conversation was more about the horrible terminology and terrible names of these two companies.
Story links:
Wisconsin GOP budget breakdown: https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/06/23/tax-cuts-and-a-uw-squeeze-a-look-at-the-proposed-republican-backed-wisconsin-state-budget/
Lab-grown meat: https://www.cnn.com/2023/06/21/business/cultivated-meat-us-approval/index.html
GOP cuts Wisconsin childcare funding at 2 a.m.: https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/06/16/wisconsin-republicans-vote-at-2-a-m-to-end-funding-for-child-care-program/
Billionaire's dog nannies: https://www.ktvu.com/news/billionaires-offering-dog-nanny-job-with-127k-salary-pull-ad-after-surge-in-applications
Wisconsin GOP Party straw poll for president: https://www.wispolitics.com/2023/wispolitics-wisconsin-gop-activists-prefer-trump-for-president-tiffany-for-u-s-senate
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Rep. Jill Billings joins just as the figures come out on the Republican tax cut plan for the state. We also talked about GOP's 2 a.m., bar time decision to defund childcare and we may have solved the Brewers stadium situation. Began the show on the tax cut plan that doesn't increase, but decreases the number of brackets in the state and gives the largest tax break to the wealthiest. After that, we discussed the GOP plan not to fund the UW-La Crosse Prairie Spring Science Center. I floated Billings my idea to solve the Brewers stadium situation and we ended the show trying to decipher why Republicans cut a very popular, effective childcare subsidy plan that's been working for years out of the budget — while the state sits on a $7 billion surplus.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dan Shafer joins to talk about Wisconsin politics. Shafer, an independent journalist, runs the site The Recombobulation Area — a name with a pretty funny backstory he tells. On the show, we dive into the shared revenue plan, as well as Republicans cutting childcare funding from the state budget, the backlash from that and potential repercussions. We also discussed the state Legislature and governor fight over who can be responsible for giving money for Milwaukee Brewers stadium renovations. Also threw Shafer an idea for that plan he hadn't heard before. But, we began the show talking a bit about a tour of La Crosse's wastewater treatment plant, hosted by the superintendent of the facility, Jared Greeno.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron joined to talk about what he called "challenging incidents" over the past week, including a drive-by shooting on 3rd Street that injured seven, a big drug bust and a knife being pulled on an officer. We also talked about Minnesota legalizing recreational marijuana, and the challenges that brings. Before that, WIZM's Brad Williams updated us on the hung jury over the West Salem triple homicide and we concluded the show discussing the governor signing a shared revenue bill and the UW System president saying college campuses could close, as they're under threat of being defunded.
See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse city council member Barb Janssen joined to help break down better the homeless situation in La Crosse and an amendment that went before the council last week, and will go through committees in July dealing with banning camping in parks. Before that, however, and a a few days after a drive-by shooting injured seven people in downtown La Crosse, WIZM's Brad Williams calls in from the courthouse reporting on the alleged shooter's first court appearance. We also discussed the Vernon County Sheriff's deputy killing of someone during a traffic stop.
See omny.fm/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joins. Broke down some middle-of-the-night votes by the Wisconsin state Legislature, ending childcare funding. Also discussed a couple conspiracy theories of Solem's on Gov. Tony Evers and the GOP Party convention, as well as the US Supreme Court. And we did have some fun with ways to get Chergosky's daughter to walk on her own, as well as a Reddit post about what purchases you shouldn't go cheap on.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Channin Kelly-Rae joined to talk about Diversity, Equity and Inclusion (DEI), after she was hired by the La Crosse County Board as a consultant. Kelly-Rae is gathering DEI data and help the county government come up with a five-year strategic plan. We talked about some of her findings so far, as well as simply defining the terms diversity, equity and inclusion. Kelly-Rae also recently presented the county board an initial report from her findings, so far.
Kelly-Rae is the head of the aptly named Channin Kelly-Rae Consulting.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Tom Schelsinger and Nick Nichols joined. They're from Climate Alliance for the Common Good out of La Crosse. We discussed some recent news about La Crosse County's landfill becoming a "land-full," and how that relates to the Xcel incinerator on French Island. We also talked recycling in Wisconsin We also talked recycling in Wisconsin. Schlesinger has a Ph.D. in Political Science specializing in health care policy, and a master’s in international environmental policy. Nichols is the former La Crosse County sustainability coordinator. In regards to the incinerator, Tony Gibart, the executive director with Midwest Environmental Advocates out of Madison, came on for a bit to add to that conversation, including a possible dilemma with PFAS waste. We also discussed with the Climate Alliance pair the difference with recycling in Wisconsin — where about 40% of cans/plastic bottles get recycled — and in Oregon, where 98% of those items are recycled.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joins to talk about three huge topics affecting La Crosse — the recent shared revenue deal, the new homeless plan and the city about to charge for downtown parking. After some filibustering, Reynolds joined and first gave a "shout out" to the UW-La Crosse track and field team for winning the D3 National Championship and being invited to the White House. After that, we hit on the shared revenue deal — the state's way of funding local governments — and some of the good and bad there. After that, we discussed the city and county's new approach to helping the homeless, and Reynolds did some venting along those lines. Ended our talk with a new plan the city is hashing out to charge everyone to park in downtown La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio, and Wisconsin state Rep. Steve Doyle live from his parent’s estate sale, where he’s hoarding all his childhood belongings. We also get both their takes on the shared revenue deal. Began the show, however, talking about 4,000 people showing up to Thursday's Moon Tunes concert, the challenges that come with that and some half-baked solution ideas. Then we get Doyle from his parent's estate sale (they have moved out of their old home) and some of the things he's found in their two-car garage that couldn't retain any cars. We also talked about the local government funding plan announced Thursday, as well as where the state Legislature is at with a two-year budget. Lastly, we got Chergosky's take on some of the shared revenue, and the oddity Wisconsin Republicans go after Milwaukee, but also have agreed to hold the GOP National Convention there, as well as hold the first presidential debate. That led into not one, but two conspiracy theories Solem had on the matter.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Just a couple hours after Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers announced a deal with the state legislature on a shared revenue plan, Onalaska Mayor Kim Smith joined to talk about what that will mean for her city and other local governments around the state like it. Before that, however, WIZM's Brad Williams joined, back from Winona where police there held a news conference on the Madeline Kingsbury case, where it has now gone from a missing person to murder. Began the show just highlighting those two things, along with a bit of a rant on the idea of punishing homeless people for camping in parks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brian Sampson with the city of La Crosse and Isaac Hoffman with the county join to talk about the area's homeless situation, a day after local leaders held a public meeting on the unsheltered. Hoffman is the La Crosse County supervisor of prevention and community programming. Sampson is the city’s Homeless Coordinator. We further discussed the first steps of what the county-city collaborative announced the previous night in bringing together a five-year plan. We also talked about not just the hardships that go into helping the unsheltered, but even discussing the multi-faceted situation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Schools superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel, joined, we discussed some of the ins and outs with the state budget and state funding for next school year, being an unknown, how truancy has increased to alarming rates and why Hamilton will no longer be year round. Started the show, though, talking about the school year ending and just throwing some ideas at Engel about teacher or class of the year. After that, we talked about Hamilton ending year-round school and why that happened. Mid-show, we discussed the state budget process and how Wisconsin schools have no idea what their funding will be for the upcoming year, and that led us to whether there will be pay raises in the district. We also changed gears a bit and got into Artificial Intelligence and the benefits and hindrances of that in schools for teachers, students and parents. Ended the show with some alarming figures on truancy in the district and why that might be happening.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County and 3rd Congressional District Democratic Party chair William Garcia in studio. We talked about a host things, including incumbents sacrificing their seat for more power, the new Spider-Man: Across the Spider Verse and the upcoming state convention. In the midst of the conversation about incumbents, we discussed what Republicans would run against US Sen. Tammy Baldwin and the situation state Sen. Brad Pfaff could be in if he decides to run against Derrick Van Orden in the 3rd. We also discussed Pride month a bit, and corporations using it for profit, and ended the show on the all-caps tweet from Donald Trump basically pointing to his getting charged in the classified docs case.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It’s Bizarro World with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, as Donald Trump takes the high road, Bernie Sanders and Ron Johnson vote together, and Wisconsin is a doughnut desert — not to be confused with dessert. Began the show talking about the debt limit deal passing the Senate but the oddity of Republicans and Democrats voting together no on the package. After that, we discussed how Wisconsin Republicans voted against funding Phase II of the Prairie Spring Science Center at UW-L. After that, we break down whether or not Wisconsin is a doughnut desert, depending on what you qualify as a place to get doughnuts — does Kwik Trip count? Also discussed a couple of things Donald Trump said this week on campaigning on being "anti-woke," as well as his new ability, apparently, to make fun of himself and how that could change the game in his candidacy. Ended the show quick about a ridiculous pair of stories where a guy drained a reservoir in India to get his phone, and a bear raided a bakery in Connecticut.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse outreach specialist, Spencer Wilken, joins to talk about getting and living on Mars, NASA going public on UFOs, but not calling them that, and apparently, we just discovered that Earth has a second moon. We also talked about some of the science-type camps coming up on campus, including an International Youth Media Summit, where three 18-24 year olds from La Crosse are eligible for scholarships.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A three guest Wednesday, including Chris O'Hearn with River Clean Up La Crosse, WIZM's Brad Williams on another Gov. Tony Evers visit — this one on fixing the roads — and Sam Bachmeier with the county on broadband for all. O'Hearn kicked off the show talking about River Clean Up La Crosse, and shared a funny story about one of the weirder things he's pulled out of the river. Williams came on after that talking about Evers riding a cement roller, fixing the roads in Onalaska. And Bachmeier, the county's Community Development Specialist, capped off the show talking about their effort to get everyone hooked up to the internet in an affordable fashion.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Adam Hoffer, director of excise tax policy at the Tax Foundation in La Crosse, joined to discuss the threat from the MLB commissioner that the Brewers could leave Milwaukee if they don't get some $500 million in stadium funding, while Green Bay Legislators want $2 million from taxpayers for hosting NFL draft. We dove into the continuing trend of billionaire owners wanting millions in taxpayer dollars to fund stadiums, as well as whether there is an economic benefit to a city for hosting a pro team. We also discussed ways money used in Green Bay to host the NFL draft could benefit the city.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Central High School Spanish teacher John Havlicek in studio talking about details within the Wisconsin state budget proposal on education, manufacturing and healthcare, as well as a rally educators held in Madison last weekend. Along with that, we got Havlicek's take on some of the more national talking points when it comes to education and teachers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio discussing stealing a $500 salad, MLB threatening Brewers leaving town, Ron DeSantis presidential run. Began the show talking about a couple of nonsense stories that we just don’t have enough details about and crave more. One out of Illinois, where a man stole a backhoe to get to the airport. The other was a Georgia woman breaking into a restaurant and getting arrested after making a $500 salad. After that, stemming from an Eric from Sparta call, we discussed Florida Gov. Ron DeSantis running for president. The second half of the show hovered around the politics of sports, where MLB’s commissioner, more or less, threatened the Milwaukee Brewers could leave town if they don’t get hundreds of millions in stadium funding. All that talk began when Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers preempted the GOP state Legislature on a Brewers funding proposal that has since been canned. This led to a conspiracy theory about Wisconsin Republicans and a Democratic governor in how a budget deal will never happen again. Also, with sports politics, the NFL is hosting the draft in Green Bay, and legislators there want millions to help the area prepare for the onslaught of people that come with that. Ended the show, potentially solving the mystery of the $500 salad.
WOMAN ARRESTED WITH $500 SALAD: https://www.wsbradio.com/news/local/woman-arrested-after-making-salad-worth-500-closed-georgia-restaurant-police-say/GDHCICBYQJC4BEQ4IYHTDMLKJU/
ILLINOIS GUY STEALS BACKHOE TO CATCH FLIGHT: https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/05/26/watch-man-steals-backhoe-for-10-mile-drive-to-illinois-airport-to-catch-flight/
GREEN BAY NEEDS NFL DRAFT MONEY: https://wktysports.com/2023/05/25/green-bay-area-legislators-ask-finance-committee-for-2m-to-support-nfl-draft/
MLB threatens Brewers could leave Milwaukee: https://www.jsonline.com/story/money/real-estate/commercial/2023/05/25/brewers-ballpark-funding-draws-concerns-from-mlb-commissioner-manfred/70253613007
RON DESANTIS TWITTER CANDIDACY ANNOUNCEMENT: https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/05/25/desantis-launches-gop-presidential-campaign-in-twitter-announcement-plagued-by-glitches/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We threw a ton of food/drink questions at Gundersen dietitian Laura Birkel, in studio, including fake sugars like diet soda, fried foods contributing to depression, stupid serving sizes and the Top 5 worst things you can put in your body. Began the show on serving sizes, after seeing a loaf of bread's serving is one slice, and just how prevalent that is among things we eat. Also discussed a study that says eating fried foods — especially french fries — leads to increased anxiety and depression. The second half of the show focused on fake sugars, like in diet soda, and what they do to your body — and whether it’s better to drink regular or diet. Also got Birkel’s Top 5 worst things you can eat/drink, as state fair season approaches, and hit on little things here and there like how good/bad coffee or energy drinks are for you.
FOOD ANXIETY: http://www.pnas.org/doi/10.1073/pnas.2221097120
FAKE SUGAR: https://www.cnn.com/2023/05/15/health/who-sweeteners-weigh-loss-guideline-wellness/index.html
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Administrator Jane Klekamp in studio talking about some of the initiatives they're working on surrounding homelessness, road funding, skilled trades training and PFAS. We discussed some of the important things that happened at last week's monthly county board meeting, including $2 million in funding for youth skilled trades training, potential $3 million more for fixing roads, and $500k for PFAS research. We also discussed some initiatives to help homeless and prevent homelessness, including an Eviction Defense Program, bridge housing and an upcoming meeting between the city, county and others on those who are unsheltered. Another important topic discussed was potential options of converting some of the Hillview Healthcare (senior) Center. We also learned the county has a new administrative assistance in Sara Coopman.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio to discussing a lot of negotiations happening — federally with the debt ceiling, statewide with the shared revenue plan and locally with road funding. Began the show on the debt ceiling talks with Republicans in charge of the the US House and the Biden Administration. After that, we get Pfaff's point of view on the back and forth between Republicans in the state Assembly and Senate, where they are in negotiating the shared revenue plan, before sending it to Gov. Tony Evers for signature or veto. We also discuss Wisconsin energy and how the state could baby step its way to being self sufficient. Ended the show talking a bit about what the state is doing with homelessness, an issue that's getting more attention in La Crosse lately.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in the WIZM studio Friday for La Crosse Talk PM discussing about the culture wars on school boards, as a teacher is fired over the song Rainbowland. We also talked about the conspiracy of banning TikTok, luring a 300-pound pig on the loose in Wisconsin and Americans smuggling Fruit Rollups. Began the show talking about a Waukesha teacher being fired over the Dolly Parton-Miley Cyrus song Rainbowland, which led to a discussion about politics infecting nonpartisan races all the way down to school boards. After that, we got Chergosky’s first impressions of Five Guys in Onalaska, before having some fun with how Taco Bell and Taco John’s are fighting over the trademark “Taco Tuesday.” Ended the show on a Fruit Rollups controversy, where a TikTok trend led to it being out of stock in Israel, therefore leading to Americans caught smuggling, what is apparently, too much Fruit Rollups into that country. And, in the midst of that conversation, we discussed the conspiracy of banning TikTok in the US — it’s already been banned in Montana.
La Crosse Talk PM airs weekdays at 5:06 p.m. Listen on the WIZM app, online here, or on 92.3 FM / 1410 AM / 106.7 FM (north of Onalaska). Find all the podcasts here or subscribe to La Crosse Talk PM wherever you get your podcasts.
300-pound pig on loose in Wisconsin:
https://www.upi.com/Odd_News/2023/05/16/potbellied-pig-Albert-escaped-Green-Bay-Wisconsin/3511684263409/
Teacher suspended over Dolly-Miley Rainbowland
https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/03/27/wisconsin-school-bans-miley-dolly-duet-from-class-concert/
Taco Tuesday duel between Taco Bell and Taco John's
https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/05/19/taco-tuesday-trademark-tiff-flares-anew-between-fast-food-competitors/
Smuggling Fruit Rollups into Israel
https://www.today.com/food/news/americans-smuggling-fruit-roll-ups-israel-rcna83408
Congress debate over banning TikTok
https://www.wizmnews.com/2023/05/06/ban-social-media-for-kids-fed-up-parents-in-senate-say-yes/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings joins, a day after Republicans released their amended shared revenue plan that has bipartisan opposition. We discuss that, as well as the homeless issue and what is being done at the state level. Billings represents District 95, which includes the city of La Crosse, Campbell and parts of Shelby.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Big Bikes for Little Tikes happens Saturday, and Puck from 95.7 the Rock joined to talk about its 27-year history and why they'll be riding for Emerson Smalls, a 9-year-old West Salem Elementary student. After that, County Board chair Monica Kruse joined to break down the monthly meeting, which includes the creating of a Broadband Committee, a diversity report from a consultant recently hired and the potential allocation of an extra $3 million in road funding.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Big news out of the Northwoods League, as co-founder Dick Radatz, Jr., joins the show with to break the news that they're working on a softball league. Before that, we talk some of the items on the La Crosse County Board's agenda Thursday, including another committee being formed and using $2.45 million for skilled trades training. We also discuss the Wisconsin GOP unveiling a dueling plan for public defender raises — which is almost identical to the governor's plan revealed three months ago. After that, though, Radatz, Jr., joins to talk about this new Northwood League Softball, where collegiate players from around the country will play over summer, much the same way a team like the La Crosse Loggers has for baseball.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jason Stein, vice president and research director for Wisconsin Policy Forum joined to help dissect some bigger topics happening statewide, including school referendums, a local government funding plan and state's shrinking $6.9 billion budget surplus. We began talking about who and what Wisconsin Policy Forum is, before delving into these topics that are all sort of intertwined. The big news of the day was how the projected budget surplus didn't go up for once. After that, we talked a bit about school referendums, as La Crosse had a failed school referendum, then passed operating referendum. That discussion kind of intertwined with the Wisconsin Legislature crafting a two-year state budget. On top of that, we talked how the state is also trying to rework how local governments are funded, through a shared revenue plan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Education Association president, Jesse Martinez joined to discuss education priorities in and out of the state budget so far. We also talked about a new grading system coming to the district next year. After that, WIZM’s Brad Williams breaks down the city council meeting a bit. Ended the show talking more about that new grading system — called Standards Based Grading — and how Republicans are sending the local government state-funding plan to Gov. Tony Evers, without changing anything, after he said he’d veto it
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
William Garcia in studio, talking about his new role as the Democratic Party chair of the 3rd Congressional District, his main role there — unseating Republican Derrick Van Orden — and convention resolutions recently passed. We also talked about another US House representative, George Santos, being arrested and why he won’t be kicked out of Congress. That led to a discussion about Donald Trump having to pay $5 million, after a jury found him liable for sexual assault, and whether Republicans will shift to other possible Republican presidential candidates.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hunger Task Force La Crosse executive director Shelly Fortner joined. While people are struggling right now with rising costs, so is the Hunger Task Force with getting donations. We talked about what the HTF does, how its distributing food, needs volunteers, and has its biggest food drive of the year this Saturday. The Post Office Food Drive on Saturday simply asks people to put donations in a bag by 8:30 a.m. and set them by your mailbox. One of the reasons behind the HTF really needing donations is because the Emergency Foodshare program ended and that kicked 700,000 people in Wisconsin off added Food Stamp benefits. Another program we discussed that is ending soon is the Badger Boxes, which not only help those in need, but also small Wisconsin farms. We also hit on a few other important dates and topics including food distribution May 19 at the Salvation Army of La Crosse County, a Remainders concert May 20 at The Main in downtown La Crosse where proceeds go to the HTF and how volunteers are needed at the Kane Street Community Gardens, which distribute 30,000 pounds of food to La Crosse each harvest.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio, talking about the state’s dueling plans to fund local governments, No Mow May, new business plans, and making the city more pedestrian friendly with traffic-slowing potholes. Spent a good portion of the show talking about the state's dueling plans — between the Republican Legislature and the Democratic governor — in how to fund local governments. Began the show discussing NBA Finals predictions and better ways to have a "lawn," as we're in the midst of the city's No Mow May. Ended the show talking about business development a bit, as there is a proposal going in front of the city council to put a drive-thru coffee kiosk downtown.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joins, to break down a Wisconsin GOP local, state funding bill — one that has a traffic ticket and arrests quota — as well as legislators voting shirtless and what Scott Walker’s mad about. In regards to the GOP local state funding bill, that has begun circulating this week, we discussed a couple of the stipulations in it, such as counties, like La Crosse, not being able to put advisory referendums on the ballot. La Crosse County has asked voters’ opinions on recreational marijuana and the state’s 174-year-old abortion ban in recent elections. Another part of the GOP bill would cut local funding from the state by 15% if they didn’t hit a quota for arrests and another quota for traffic tickets. We also discuss gripes from former Wisconsin GOP Gov. Scott Walker that Kate Bush is in the Rock ‘n Roll Hall of Fame but Iron Maiden isn’t. Another topic included whether legislators can vote, essentially naked from their couch on legislation, which happened in Minnesota this week. Lastly, capped off the show discussing an odd YouGov poll asking what voters want their GOP nominees to represent.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse outreach specialist Spencer Wilken in studio, on Star Wars day, talking space news and debunking moon landing conspiracies. We spent the entire second half of the show breaking down the moon landing "hoaxes," like the radiation belt, fake film, or why we haven't gone back. Before that, however, we did talk some space news, like a Barbie Black Hole and a real life lightsaber. Began the show, though, talking about Wilken's journey in getting her doctorate in Astrophysics/Astronomy, as well as her possibly being responsible for changing the University of Illinois mascot. CORRECTION: In terms of the moon landing, we did talk about why we didn't land objects on the moon before people, but the US actually did send objects first, in the mid-1960s, called the surveyor missions.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John Havlicek, our pseudo Wisconsin state budget proposal expert, and La Crosse Central Spanish teacher joins. We, of course, dive into some of the state budget proposals when it comes to education. That included how schools are funded, "per pupil" money and how voucher schools fit — or don't — into the public education system. Republicans, who recently stripped over 500 items out of Evers' version of the budget, are in the process of crafting their own version, to be released some time in the summer.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio to talk about some of what Republicans have stripped out of the budget, like childcare funding and marijuana legalization. Also talked about child labor vs. a workforce shortage vs. a pay shortage. We hit on the train derailment, as well, and spent quite a bit of time on the dueling income tax cuts being proposed by Republicans (a flat tax) and Gov. Tony Evers (10% tax cut for those making $100,000 or less).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Saw a "get off my lawn" rant on Facebook about kids not playing hide-n-seek, which coincided nicely with some legislation proposed in Wisconsin by Republicans. The legislation would limit social media use for kids — essentially being the parents. Before we hit on that, though, WiZM's Brad Williams joined to talk about when he met Danny DeVito. Oh, and we also talked about some proposals going through La Crosse city committees right now — a duplex on Ward and a drive-thru coffee shop. After that, we discussed more GOP legislation that would allow 14-year-olds to serve alcohol to solve what lawmakers like to call a "workforce shortage." Ended the show with a quick rant about how useless touch screens are in vehicles.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A wide array of topics with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, from how the GOP can appeal to young voters to McDonald's selling the Big Mac sauce. Began the show just running down the day's topics, before bringing up a Wisconsin GOP strategist saying the quiet thing out loud when it comes to college students voting. That led to a deep discussion in ways the GOP could handle young voters, and how voting should be handled in general — like mandatory voting. Another part of that conversation included who the GOP would run against Tammy Baldwin for Wisconsin's US Senate seat. In between all that, though, we had to rehash Five Guys opening in La Crosse, and now McDonald's selling Big Mac sauce and whether that's something people want. Ended the show with some oddball topics — a kid getting stuck in a claw machine, a flight attendant making a pregnant woman pick up popcorn her 5-year-old spilled and someone stealing 2 million dimes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mississippi Valley Conservancy (MVC) Executive Director Carol Abrahamzon in studio to help navigate how Wisconsin lawmakers are breaking the law, when it comes to certain land projects. Before that, though, we got into the mission of the MVC. Then we dive into the rabbit hole of how Wisconsin’s Joint Finance Committee (JFC) is killing land conservancy projects that are applying for grant money with no transparency, breaking its own rules in how it should interact with the public. This misconduct has forced MVC to not apply for certain Knowles-Nelson Stewardship grants. A lot of this made news this week with the Pelican River Project in northern Wisconsin, that was denied by the JFC — a project that would have protected 56,000 acres from development, and allowed it to be utilized for outdoor recreation — anything from hiking to hunting to snowmobiling.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Though we buried the lead to start the show, two guests joined — Dr. Tom Schlesinger and Nick Nichols — to talk about climate change, what we can do about it, what the state could do that would save $14 billion a year to the benefit of everything and everyone. Schlesinger is a political scientist that specializes in healthcare and also has a Master’s in international environmental policy, focusing on climate change. Nichols, now retired, was the La Crosse County Sustainability Coordinator, and works in climate protection across the region. They are both part of a group called the Climate Alliance for the Common Good. A bit part of the show focused on how Wisconsin could transition to electric power, without outsourcing that power, and the benefits the state would see economically, environmentally, fiscally. Part of that discussion included green energy sources, like wind, solar. Began the show defining a bit climate change, the timeline for when society needs to transition away from the carbon-methane production that contributes to it, and how these topics shouldn’t be political — but are. We also discussed some aspects of electric vehicles, as well as what individuals and corporations can be doing
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The River Point District, north of downtown La Crosse, has been decades in the making. Jason Gilman, project manager and owner of JBG Planning, LLC, joined to break down just what to expect and when to expect those acres along the Black and Mississippi rivers to be developed.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kahya Fox, the executive director of Habitat For Humanity La Crosse Area, joins to talk about housing dilemmas in the area and possible solutions. The big problems here, with La Crosse being landlocked, is the number of homes available, but the incredibly skyrocketing prices of these homes that’s affecting not just low income people anymore, but middle class. Prices of homes, rising mortgage rates, number of rentals are some of the things we discussed. Habitat is also hosting a Neighbors Day this weekend, to help elderly and disabled people — read more and sign up here.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, joins to discuss Five Guys in Onalaska opening and how restaurants could really benefit customers, the Brewers needing more bank on beer sales, plus teaching politics. Began the show, though, talking a bit about US Sen. Tammy Baldwin announcing she's running for reelection and the differences in strategy between Baldwin and her counterpart, Sen. Ron Johnson. Then we got into teaching politics, as Chergosky is at a political science convention in Chicago. Ended the show talking about Five Guys opening, their strategy of throwing the fries in the bag. That led to a discussion about what's best: chips and salsa, free bread sticks or a pile of fries? And how more restaurants should be doing one of the three. And we ended with the Brewers, Twins and other teams extending beer sales because "the game isn't long enough." Yes, sure, that's the reason. Also discussed how politicians are flip-flopping on the idea of public funds to help the Brewers renovate American Family Field.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John Havlicek joins to talk about details in the upcoming Wisconsin budget, including his public comments and medicaid expansion. Havlicek has been a Central High School teacher for 25 years and we like to use him on the show as one of our "political blowhard." He was at a Joint Finance Committee public budget hearing in the Dells, discussing education. We also talked about Wisconsin not accepting Medicaid expansion for the past dozen years and the ramifications from that. Ended the show quick talking about the La Crosse School District transitioning to standards-based grading.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia in studio, talking about Tammy Baldwin's re-election, the hypothetical Ron Johnson v. Tammy Baldwin matchup, the potential impeaching political opponents in Wisconsin and guns in Wisconsin schools. Cover the Tammy Baldwin running for reelection news in a couple different ways, including what Republicans might go against her -- like Scott Walker -- but also the what if of Ron Johnson and her on the same ballot. Also hit on the Tennessee lawmakers being reinstated after getting expelled by Republicans for peacefully protesting gun violence in the wake of three students being killed in the state. Republicans in Wisconsin now have a Senate supermajority, and we discussed the possible expelling of Democrats in the state. Touched on the Democratic National Convention coming to Chicago a month after the RNC is in Milwaukee. Ended the show talking a bit about a GOP proposal to allow guns in Wisconsin schools. Oh, and we also hit on his daughter getting Taylor Swift tickets and why dad isn't invited.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two guest Tuesday, beginning with Happy Plants owner Stephanie Perry, who's shop near TJ Maxx in La Crosse will have a grand opening celebration this weekend — though the boutique is open now. After that, Michael Quam with the Salvation Army joins to talk about the homeless situation in La Crosse, a few weeks after Houska Park evicted campers. Quam talks about how many are staying at the SA currently, some of the ways they go about getting people back on their feet and the group's Canteen, which provides lunches seven days a week.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio, discussing the city potentially cutting services, his demands for action from the Wisconsin Legislature in regards to the state budget, Delta bailing on La Crosse and bringing back “Blue Baby." Spent a lot of time on what the state needs to do to help fund municipalities like La Crosse in the upcoming two-year budget, as the Wisconsin Joint Finance Committee is holding hearings this week on those plans. Also hit on Delta Airlines leaving the La Crosse Airport and the impact there. Spent a couple minutes discussing a UW-La Crosse student's campaign to bring back the Hatched (Blue) Baby artwork that was destroyed from vandalism. But began and ended talking NBA playoffs, of course.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's been gone a year and a half now, but one UW-La Crosse student is taking it upon herself to try and bring back "Blue Baby." Ashlyn Neader joined to talk about her petition to bring back a piece of art in the city of La Crosse called Hatched Baby. If you don't know, Hatched Baby was a 9-foot tall statue of a blue baby's head coming out of an egg. It was created by Wolfgang Auer, a German artist from La Crosse's sister city of Friedberg, Germany, and donated to the city. It was vandalized in September of 2021, and deemed irreparable, thus removed from its perch in front of the city's police headquarters. Neader's main reasoning behind the campaign is because she feels Hatched Baby's destruction is not representative of who the people of La Crosse are. She hopes to get the statue fixed by Auer and put back on display. Sign the petition here: https://www.change.org/p/bring-back-blue-baby
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio. A whirlwind of a show that dealt with everything from the election recap to the government banning participation trophies to the best MLB mascots to the ongoing politics in Wisconsin's legislature. Began the show with a bit of a recap on Tuesday's election results. From there we talked about a poll of MLB's best mascots — Bernie Brewer is not happy — before discussing the politics of cancelling student loan debt. After that, we hit on a state banning participation trophies, before ending with the work — or lack thereof — Wisconsin's legislature is doing and baseball's new sped-up game.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings in studio to discuss the how the public comments in the budget process, La Crosse building projects and the $7.1 billion budget surplus. Spent the first half of the show going back and forth between the building funding/projects the La Crosse School District has and UW-La Crosse. After that, we discussed her hosting an upcoming public comment session on the state budget, happening Monday (April 10) at the Main Street Library in La Crosse, and some of the details people might want to know in how to participate. Lastly, we talked about the recent election, some of the things the Wisconsin Supreme Court might take up and voter turnout in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
School District of La Crosse superintendent Dr. Aaron Engel joins. We discussed the passing of the operating referendum, student walkout on gun violence, future middle school classes being cut, elementary building consolidation. We began with a bit of a sigh of relief from Engel as Tuesday's election saw La Crosse voters turn out 65% in favor of the district's six-year, $60-million operating budget request. We discussed what that means and then moved on to a Logan student walking due, in part, to the Tennessee school shooting and no action against gun violence. After that, we discussed the district's situation with now over $100 million in building deferred maintenance. Ended the show discussing the plan going forward — after closing Lincoln MS — to cut one period of classes and make class time longer, as well as the next stages of building consolidation, which could include elementary schools.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Education Association president Jesse Martinez joined. With the spring election cycle ending Tuesday, we spent quite a bit of time on the district's six-year, $60-million operating budget referendum on the ballot and the school board race. We also talked about cellphones in classrooms and how the schools and teachers deal with those. And, in the midst of the school board conversation, as well as having a Wisconsin Supreme Court race on the ballot, we asked Martinez the process the teachers' union goes through to make endorsements.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio talking about culture wars of woke and CRT, the Donald Trump indictment, the arrest of Ulysses S. Grant, and dueling checkouts — self checkout vs. chatty checkout. Started the show talking about culture wars, how nobody can define things like woke and Critical Race Theory and how, when governments take on these battles, nothing legislatively gets done. After that we talked about the Trump indictment and how he isn't the first president to be arrested — there may still be a warrant out for Ulysses S. Grant. Also took some calls on who has the power: government or corporations, and ended the show on Kwik Trip's new checkout policy vs. the opposite kind of checkout in Finland.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board candidate Trevor Sprague joins. The big topics with Sprague were transparency from the district, the operating budget referendum and the tough decisions the board will have to make in the future. Sprague is a lifelong La Crosse resident, who currently is a visiting professor of rhetoric and composition at UW-Eau Claire. The Central High School graduate has three young kids, the oldest currently going to Emerson Elementary. Getting back to transparency, another part of that conversation was public trust — something most of the candidates have brought up — and how the school board, the district can restore that. We also discussed the responsibility Wisconsin state government has in public schools, as it’s going through a budget-writing process with a $7.1 billion surplus to play with. Another topic we spent some time on was endorsements — not just the groups that are supporting Sprague but one group in particular that is endorsing candidates but doesn’t seem to have their support.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board candidate Scott Neumeister joined. We discussed an unwanted endorsement, how he feels the district isn’t giving all the info on a new operating referendum and the tough decisions about consolidation. Neumeister was born and raised in La Crosse and is a small business owner on the north side, as well as a real estate agent. Like he did, Neumeister’s three kids all went through the La Crosse public school system. A unique part of the conversation was about a PAC endorsing Neumeister, called the 1776 Project putting out flyers on his behalf — something he says he didn’t not ask for and does not support some of the PAC’s views. We also talked about the six-year, $60-million operating budget referendum question on the spring ballot and how he believes the figures the district is putting out there aren’t painting the entire picture in how they would affect taxes. Neumeister also talked about building consolidation and how he would like to see the future of the high school(s) in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Administrator Jane Klekamp in studio, a few months into the new job. We discussed a slew of things from what is a county admin., to bridge housing to a diversity, equity and inclusion consultant. La Crosse County Administrator Jane Klekamp in studio, a few months into the new job. We discussed a slew of things from what is a county admin., to bridge housing to a diversity, equity and inclusion consultant. Klekamp has worked within La Crosse County since 1989. She took over for Steve O’Malley mid-January, after he retired after 19 years as the county’s first-ever administrator. A big part of the conversation was about bridge housing for families and how the county is doing in that regard. Also spent some time on “fix the damn roads,” free jail phone calls, and declaring racism a public health crisis. The county hiring a recently hired a diversity, equity and inclusion consultant to help deal with that. Lastly we hit on some of the programs that were expanded during COVID that are coming to an end, a new south side meal site and potentially a fifth one in West Salem through the Aging-Disability Resource Center and using American Rescue Plan Act funding for solar panels on county buildings.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio discussing a lot of different farming topics, including anti-plant milk legislation (he would call this pro-milk legislation) transitioning farms, farm pollution and ways to fund fixing the roads. Had Pfaff try to explain the dilemma small dairy farmers have and what could be done about that, like transitioning to other crops, hydroponics and whether the state helps with that switch. Also talked about farm pollution, like runoff, and if the state could be better regulating that. Pfaff has legislation to not allow plant-based drinks to call themselves “milk,” so we had to hit on that topic again. Lastly, brought up La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds’ post about being charged by the state $75 basically for owning a hybrid/electric vehicle. Why does that exist? Also asked if if there is a better way to simply fund fixing the roads. Ended the show quick that Pfaff and state Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle will hold a Wisconsin budget listening session from 5:30-6:30 p.m. April 3 at the West Salem Public Library.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. We got into a what's on the ballot, how the legislature manipulates and ignores ballot questions and what we should really be voting on — like state dipping sauce. Began the show talking about how these spring, "nonpartisan" elections are vastly more important than a presidential election in terms of effecting your every day life, but the turnout is like 60 percent less. That led to some of the referendum questions on the ballot and how some are posed to encourage certain voter turnout and other nonbinding questions are just ignored by the legislature — like redistricting solutions, legalizing marijuana. And, speaking of redistricting, we discussed the Wisconsin Supreme Court race and what kind of things they might take up with a new member on the court. Lastly, we talked about Republicans mad the governor appointed a new secretary of state, when they want a special election, and some Scott Walker news.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board candidate Kathi Blanchard joined. She discussed some of the things she sees through her kids withing the district, talked how the board needs to build trust and expressed her views on consolidation. Blanchard is one of eight candidates running for school board with four open seats. She was born and raised in La Crosse, went through the public school system and currently has a freshman attending Logan and a fifth grader at Northside. Some of the things we talked about were the upcoming six-year, $60-million operating budget referendum, how she felt about the closing of Lincoln Middle School and teacher pay.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke joined to help make sense of the bail reform questions on the spring ballot that could change the Wisconsin constitution, as well as other legislation happening, and a racial equity study that was recently reviewed. Spent most of the show on bail reform, as lawmakers earlier in the day tried to better identify violent crime, even as voters are already casting ballots on the measure. We also discussed a racial equity study by the Center for Effective Public Policy that the county's Criminal Justice Management Council reviewed recently. Spent the rest of the show with quick hitters on the other legislation going through Madison, including harsher riot penalties, harsher reckless driving penalties and parole transparency.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board candidate Tim Alberts joined to discuss what he thinks his role should be, public trust, the referendum, and the importance of listening to a diverse group of people. Alberts is born and raised in La Crosse, graduated from Central and has two freshmen currently with the River Hawks. Alberts discussed the importance of passing the six-year, $60 million operating referendum that's on the current ballot, though he saddles that to a transparency issue within the district. We also discussed the consolidation plan to build a new high school that failed last election and what the plan should be with the district's many buildings and declining student population.Lastly, Alberts stressed the importance he sees with listening to the public, teachers and, most importantly, students.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse Outreach Specialist Spencer Wilken in studio with another segment of breaking news from decades ago -- this time about living with a dolphin -- as well as whether the Romans had potholes and her very popular Reddit thread on the moon landing. First, however, Wilken listened intently as Solem unwound from being off a week, and the news of Wisconsin Secretary of State resigning. Then we got into roundabout-construction season-pothole talk and how the Romans may have solved that dilemma. After that, some very weird news from the 1960s about dolphin research, taking what must have been a lot of LSD and subjecting a woman and a dolphin to living together in some kind of apartment. Lastly, we brought up Wilken's Reddit thread on the moon landing, as she prepares to get her doctorate in astrophysics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio to discuss the controversial release of Ranch Dressing ice cream, as well as Wisconsin politics in regards to dueling political tax plans and Legislature salaries and qualifications. Depending on your preference, either Chergosky or Solem had an extreme opinion on Ranch Dressing. Politically, the the tax cut plan discussion hovered around a new report was not favorable for either Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers or the GOP-led state Legislature proposals. And, in terms of the Legislature, we discussed how long they're in session, their ability to have a side-hustle, and the amount they get paid.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board candidate Jerry Wacek joined the show, discussing the old and new referendums in the district and some of his priorities when it comes to schools, including keeping the arts. Wacek is a field tech for an engineering company and he has two children in the district now — third grader and a sophomore. Eight are running for four open seats on the board, with the spring election cycle ending April 4. Before Wacek joined, 95.7 the Rock's Jean Taylor began the show to talk about the world's shortest race, the St. Patty's Day .01k happening March 17 in on Pearl Street, downtown. Proceeds from the 32.8-foot race go to the Hunger Task Force.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Minnesota House Rep. Gene Pelowski of Winona joins the show to talk about some of the initiatives the state is discussing and putting forward with a $17 billion budget surplus, including free school meals, public school funding and legalizing marijuana/sports gambling. Minnesota flipped to full Democratic control this past election and Pelowski noted that there are now over 2,700 bills going through the part-time Legislature that has until May to siphon threw them.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio discussing how how the state could change funding cities, the homeless situation in Houska Park, and some development news both near Pettibone Park, as well as the River Point District — the old Mobil Oil site. But, began the show, for some reason, with the hot topic of shoveling your sidewalks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We bring in the political science professor, UW-L's Dr. Anthony Chergosky to break down some politics, yes, but also what Wisconsin's state aroma should be. A lot of listeners chimed in with good examples, as well. In terms of politics, we discussed the state budget fight, the $7.1 billion budget surplus fight, and a US House Rep. from Wisconsin reneging on his promise of a self-imposed term limit.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board candidate Deb Suchla joined to talk about her past experience on the board, as well as past, present and future referendums, student population decline and student needs. Suchla is one of eight candidates running for four seats on the board in the spring elections. We discussed the past $194.7 million new high school plan, the current $60 million operating budget referendum. We also talked about the old middle schools, as the school board already voted to close Lincoln. Suchla brought up student population decline and what that means for the district. In there as well, we talked teacher pay and about mental health — as students have been bringing that up voluntarily at board meetings. She also gave her thoughts on how to approach other students needs.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Adam Murphy, our political blowhard, failed US Senate candidate and small business owner, joins, as we go all over the map from sports gambling legalization to healthcare to Fox News lawsuits and capped it off describing how Wisconsin got a $7.1 billion budget surplus. Began the show discussing the difference between Republicans and Democrats on legalizing things like sports gambling and marijuana. Also discussed Assembly Speaker Robin Vos losing another lawsuit into the 2020 election investigation -- which sort of means Wisconsin pays for another lawsuit. Before we talked the $7.1 billion budget surplus the last half of the show, we also hit on how one might better run for big time office positions -- like US Senator or even the presidency.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board candidate Jeff Jackson joins to talk about past and present referendums, closing Lincoln MS, and even some refereeing experience. Jackson is one of eight candidates running for four seats in the district. A lot of the discussion — building maintenance, referendum questions on the ballot, teacher pay, closing Lincoln — centered around how the board and how the district should better engage with the community. Jackson, whose family is directly impacted by the closing of Lincoln, also discussed his experience as a referee and what he thinks about the budget talks going through the state Legislature right now.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio, talking about the two-year budget, a new model for funding schools and municipalities, how the state is prepared for a RR disaster and what is "milk." Began the show talking about how a 98-year-old just ran a 5k and how that sets a terrible example for the rest of us, as over 150 Republicans signed onto legislation to increase the retirement age to 70. After that, deep dived into the two-year budget, and the proposals to change how the state provides funding for schools and municipalities. Ended the show talking quick about farms and how the FDA has ruled that plant-based milk can be called "milk."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Emergency Management Tracy Hameau joins. We discuss Emergency Management's role when something like a train derailment or other disaster would happen in the area.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joins to talk about everything from restaurant monthly subscriptions to the Wisconsin Supreme Court race between the "liberal" and the "conservative." Began the show, in regards to monthly food subscriptions, how much you'd be willing to pay for unlimited Starbucks. After that, talked about how the Roe v. Wade decision affected both sides of the political aisle and the role it'll play in Wisconsin's Supreme Court race. Ended quickly talking about how congress reps. will talk about national issues like immigration, but ignoring the political winner of a four-day week.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle joined for the hour. Hit on a lot of things, including how Wisconsin got and what it should do with $7.1 billion in budget surplus. That included talk on fixing the roads and how to go about tax breaks. After that, we of course had to work in a conversation about snow-pocalypse and how Doyle's alpacas like the snow. Then we discussed two questions on the April ballot that will change the state Constitution in terms of bail reform and whether state Legislators voting on those initiatives have a great understanding of how bail works. Lastly, discussed La Crosse County government, including the new Administrator, Jane Klekamp.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Adam Hoffer, the director of excise tax policy at the Tax Foundation joins to talk about how we get a $7.1 billion budget surplus, the proposal to give $290 million of that to the Brewers, why Wisconsin should be in the sports gambling game and how River Point District could be a game-changer for La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
She didn't right away, but we got La Crosse County clerk Ginny Dankmeyer to make a turnout prediction for Tuesday's primary election. Dankmeyer joined for a bit to break down some of the ins and outs of Wisconsin's primary. Around that conversation we talked a bit more generally about what's on the ballot for the primary and some of the questions on the April ballot, as well.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor in studio talking about Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers state budget release, including giving the Milwaukee Brewers $290 million for stadium renovations and dueling tax cut policies between Republicans and the governor. That led to a discussion about how politicians troll each other with legislation and get mad if someone else takes what's perceived as their idea — essentially how politics plays its role here. Lastly, we discussed a guy stealing a trailer loaded with 200,000 Cadbury eggs.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Assembly Rep. Jill Billings joins for the hour, to break down some of the two-year budget released by Gov. Tony Evers, including childcare and family initiatives and what to do about PFAS. We also discussed the dueling tax relief plans from both parties, as well as the budget process from here on out and how the public can get involved and give their opinions on what's important to them.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse Outreach Coordinator Spencer Wilken — or Mrs. Photon — in studio to talk science, including things that cannot be explained, like meat raining from the sky, how Tylenol works, why curling (the sport) stones curl and where all Earth’s water came from. The meat shower comes from a phenomenon that happened March 3, 1876, where it literally rained meat and nobody knows why. Science also can't explain how Tylenol works, or why those stones you throw down the ice curve in that matter. We also discussed the melting of the Doomsday Glacier, or Thwaite’s Glacier — named after a UW geologist — climate change in general, and the discovery of a 350-pound, Shaq-sized penguin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's Bizarro World on this Valentine's Day with a Wisconsin Republican proposal being floated that Rick agrees with, while Gov. Tony Evers is looking to throw $290 million to a millionaire. Before that, however, we talk with WIZM's Brad Williams about some interesting episodes happening in court, already, this week, including a guy who spit at officers and threatened their lives. Then we got into the Republican proposal to help those requesting open records — legislation that would directly clash with what conservatives on the Wisconsin Supreme Court ruled on last year, to help stall requests, which costs individuals getting those records money in lawyer fees. On the other side of Bizarro World, Evers wants to give the Brewers $290 million to fix a stadium that cost $392 million, in exchange that they agree to stay in Wisconsin for another 20 years. Wrapped up talking about the origins of Valentine's Day, which had to do with sacrificing goats and dogs and whipping women with those hides, apparently.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jillian Olson joins to discuss some of the big plans and potential plans for the Outdoor Recreation Alliance. The group is looking to purchase 277 acres of land on La Crosse’s southside. Olson, ORA’s operations director, talks about what they intend to do with that and how La Crosse County might help. Olson also discusses what ORA does in general and some of the other big projects they have ongoing, including two in La Crosse — one’s a treehouse — and another in West Salem. After that, I talk quick about an Ohio train derailment that looks to have a huge environmental impact spanning multiple states. Hoping to have, later this week, someone with the county discuss the situation and how that might get handled in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science prof. Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio. Spent a big part of the show breaking down some very important stories over someone stealing $1.5 million with of chicken wings from a school district, how one Chick-fil-A restaurant had to be torn down because it was too busy and a 22-year-old coach impersonating their 13-year-old JV player and dominating in a game. We also got Chergosky’s take on Gov. Tony Ever’s State of the State address and whether political parties need credit for the proposals put out there by the governor. We also talked about decorum within the State of the Union address by Joe Biden and the heckling Republicans — and how the back-and-forth could be good for government. Wrapped up talking about an attack on a US House Rep. from Minnesota and the increase of these incidents since Jan. 6, 2021.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Common Cause Wisconsin executive director Jay Heck joins to discuss the upcoming Wisconsin Supreme Court race and how that could affect Wisconsin voting lines that were just drawn last year. The state Supreme Court ruled on those redrawn lines and could do so again when a new justice is elected — one that could potentially swing the court from, basically, Republican to Democrat. Wisconsin is often referred to as having the most rigged voting districts in the country. We also talked, quick about the same dilemma in Illinois, only the gerrymander is rigged the other way, as well as the solution to all this coming out of Iowa — a state that is completely controlled by Republicans. Common Cause Wisconsin is a nonpartisan, nonprofit organization that works to "been working to "hold power accountable through lobbying, litigation, and grassroots organizing." Before that conversation, however, WIZM’s Brad Williams pops in to talk quick about some of the things happening in La Crosse city and county government — including added funding for EV busses and inclusive coordinator hires — or potential hires.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John Havlicek in studio, to talk about what's at stake in the Wisconsin Supreme Court race. With the balance of the state Supreme Court on the line, Havlicek talks about how issues that could come before it may be ruled on more politically — like redistricting or the 174-year-old abortion ban in Wisconsin. Havlicek is a longtime Central High School Spanish teacher, and we began the show talking about students' attention spans now versus, essentially, before cellphones. One other topic that did come up was standard based grading, that Havlicek gave his opinion on, as the La Crosse School District discusses that change from letter grading.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Sheriff John Siegel joined for the hour. Spent a big part of the show talking about the Memphis police killing of Tyre Nichols and how that resonates within his department. That also played into a conversation about the county's police study committee. Another county initiative we discussed, was free phone calls for jail inmates, and where we're at with that being enacted. Capped off the show talking about drug overdose deaths in the county and how the Sheriff's Office is dealing with those drugs on multiple fronts. Opened things up, though, talking about Siegel's first month on the job and how his three children are doing — one playing DI college football, another shooting 3s in the Special Olympics and a third at UW-Green Bay.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joins for the hour. Spent a big part of the show going through some of the ins and outs of homelessness and how it's being handled in La Crosse and what might be coming in the near future — and distant future — to help. Opened the show discussing what exactly is a "supper club," as the library hosted a documentary called "Old Fashioned." Bottom half of the show was about Gov. Tony Evers' visit to the city, updates on the $65 million wastewater treatment plan and how it might power the city with poop, and on some new hires in the parks department and on a major project.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Adam Murphy, our political blowhard, filling in on a Friday, as the nation is consumed with a balloon, apparently from China. So, we hit on that a bit, but more along the lines of how the U.S. government talks about China to the public. Before that, however, we spent a lot of time talking about how media, in general — like TV vs. streaming — is changing, and what we say is the most popular — like Fox News — doesn't even compare to what is actually being watched (TikTok videos). All that conversation, though, started because of a viral MrBeast video on getting 1,000 people eye surgery, which of course led to a universal healthcare discussion.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse outreach coordinator, Spencer Wilken, or "Mrs. Photon," in studio talking about using incredible Artificial Intelligence (ChatGPT) in everyday ways, the unexpected effects of salting our roads — which, apparently, are butterfly steroids and, of course, Puxatony Phil and Groundhog’s Day. That did beg the question, ‘What would La Crosse’s groundhog-like mascot be?’ Wrapped up with some exciting upcoming programs at UW-L, as well as a weird radioactive news out of Australia.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gundersen registered dietitian Laura Birkel joined to break down some of myths out there in the food world, how to navigate protein as a vegan, those pre-made dinners we see everywhere and some discrepancies with the new food compass — plus much more. Some of those food myths included whether things like eggs or coffee are healthy. We also talked about some sports myths, like drinking pickle juice to stave off cramps and if protein powder is a good supplement. A big thing today, since we have no time to cook as a society, we see these pre-made dinners, which look like they've replaced frozen dinners. We bet Birkel's take on whether they are actually healthy? Birkel works out of the Onalaska clinic at Gundersen Health System. We began the show talking a bit about what she does and who could/should go see her or her colleagues.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Education Association — otherwise known as the teachers' union — president Jesse Martinez joined for the hour. Among the many things covered were the February and April elections with the La Crosse School Board on the ballot, as well as a $60 million operating budget referendum question. Martinez, who teachers Middle School at Logan, also discussed Lincoln Middle School closing. We hit on the teacher shortage and some ideas on using Wisconsin’s $7.1 billion budget surplus in education. Throughout the show, we also talked about some of the ups and downs that teachers go through, and whether students should have homework.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The primary for the spring elections is just weeks away. Chris Haskell from the League of Women Voters of the La Crosse Area joins to discuss some of the things we might see on the ballot. After that, a bit of a rant on how these elections are nonpartisan by name only and how politicians play with the ballot with their partisanship, even though the issues at hand are very much defined by voters already — like abortion, marijuana and gerrymandering.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chegosky in studio. Kicked off the show with another guest, La Crosse Airport director Ian Turner, to continue our ongoing saga of "What's going through TSA today?" And we recapped that saga of duct-taping passengers, carry-on frozen chickens and he emotional support boa constrictor named Bartholomew. After that, we talked about a 29-year-old woman posing as a high school student for four days and 7,600 people getting fake nursing degrees. Also spent time on how A.I. affects education. Ended the show with some Wisconsin politics, including how many millions in Wisconsin taxpayer funds the 2020 presidential election investigation cost and how Republicans and Gov. Tony Evers are fighting over the two-year budget.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Political blowhard, small business owner and failed US Senate candidate out of Wisconsin, Adam Murphy is back. It wasn't part of the agenda, but we spent some time on the rise of Artificial Intelligence and just what movie best represents the fall of man. We also discussed Chevron's record profits and $75 billion in stock buybacks, as well as what to do with Wisconsin's now $7.1 billion budget surplus.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo economist John Robinson joins. Spent a lot of the time around the idea from some members of the US House to get rid of federal income tax and to replace that with a 23-30% sales tax on just about everything. Along with that discussion, we talked about filing taxes and who it might help if we did get rid of some of tax systems — like farmers or Hollywood actors. Robinson is a La Crosse native and also Viterbo's Interim Associate Dean and associate professor of business. We kicked off the show talking a bit about the La Crosse School District's building consolidation plan, as the Lincoln Middle School will close this year. Lastly, in there somewhere, we talked about egg price gouging in comparison with the Taylor Swift-Ticketmaster dilemma, as Robinson is a huge Swiftie (or is it Swifty?) and also loves cooking with eggs, apparently.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School District superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel joined to discuss the decision by the School Board on a $60 million operating referendum and closing Lincoln Middle School. The referendum question will go on the April ballot and would encompass six years. Closing the middle school is part of the district's consolidation plan, after a referendum to build a new $194.7 million high school fell through last fall.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio. After breaking down the history of 4x4s a week after a big snowstorm we got into some Madison business. Pfaff recently voted with Republicans on a bail reform question headed to the ballot that will change the state constitution. Pfaff also voted to add a welfare question to the ballot. We discussed the reasoning for his votes, while Republicans who control the Legislature didn't put an abortion question on the ballot, as the state has a 174-year-old law that bans abortion.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio. Hit on a slew of topics like the southern border, abortion, gerrymandering and the Wisconsin Supreme Court and how they are used politically, versus how the general public feels about such issues. Ended the show with a quick Friday news dump on Wisconsin's 82-year-old Secretary of State doing a thing, as well as our ongoing saga of things going through TSA checkpoints.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board president Dr. Juan Jimenez joins. Two big topics included the upcoming elections where four new school board members will be elected out of the pool of nine currently running. Before Jimenez joined, WIZM's Brad Williams talked about the last time he remembers that many new board members coming on, back during the 1992 school board special recall election in July. Along with the election, Jimenez spoke about what entails being a school board member. We wrapped up the conversation in how administration is beginning to discuss the future of the La Crosse School District, post the $194.7 million new high school, consolidation plan was voted down last November.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia in studio. Big topic of the day was Garcia revealing he'll be using his electric snow shovel — or "power broom" as we learned — as we get set for snow-pocalypse 2023. Politically, we spent some time on three proposals offered by freshman US House Rep., Republican Derrick Van Orden of Wisconsin's 3rd District here in the La Crosse area. We also compared and contrasted what Wisconsin and Minnesota will do with their billion-dollar budget surpluses — Wisconsin's projected over $6.6 billion, while Minnesota is three times that at $17.6 billion.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Democracy Campaign executive director Matt Rothschild joined for a bit to discuss Wisconsin Republicans and voter suppression. After that, a rant about the last video rental stores closing in Minnesota. Wrapped up talking about politicians crying about politicking in an argument about dueling ballot measures that apparently only want to turn out the vote.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse city council member Dr. Mark Neumann in studio, discussing city development moving forward — like River Point District — as well as the council decisions on the eight-year Climate Action Plan and the senior center building sale offer. Neumann also discussed Mayor Mitch Reynolds' state of the city address. Began the show talking about Neumann the retired pediatric critical care doctor, who spent quite a few years working in Africa.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joins. Hit on an array of topics from the removal of most cameras in the US House to some new businesses popping up in La Crosse. In regards to the House, we also talked about one Congressman lying about his volleyball accolades at a college he didn’t go to and Wisconsin's Derrick Van Orden proposing his first legislation. La Crosse is getting another Starbucks and are you more excited about a Five Guys or Five Below opening here? Republicans are shrinking on the likelihood of legalizing any marijuana in Wisconsin, while it’s almost a done deal for Democrats in Minnesota. A couple other things we talked about included Republicans proposing a flat tax in Wisconsin and Missouri’s GOP banning women from baring — not bearing — arms.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke joins. The big topics we hit on all had to deal with potential law changes across the state in regards to theft, drugs and letting people out of jail — bonds/bail. In regards to drugs, Wisconsin is thinking about proposing legislation to legalize medical marijuana, while just about every territory around the state already has it fully legalized. With theft, lawmakers want to decrease the amount stolen that results in a felony. And, with bail/bonds, the Legislature is trying to change the system through a Constitutional Amendment in regards to bail, in reaction to the Waukesha parade massacre. Is it far enough?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse outreach coordinator Spencer Wilken joins to talk science. Among the topics was bored scientists trying to determine how smart a Tyrannosaurus rex actually was. We also discussed the Great American Beaver Drop, as well as how beavers are wreaking havoc in the wake of climate change. And in the midst, we hit on space talk, including a green comet that will fly by soon, new black hole info and how old — or young — the universe might be, thanks to the new James Webb telescope.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Vicki Markussen in studio to discuss her new podcasts that dives into the business world. It dropped last week, BizCast Greater La Crosse, where Markussen talks with business owners and others in the industry about, well, just about anything. We, too, dived into some of those dilemmas local businesses face, like downtown restaurants hampered because of remote work or different aspects of tipping or tipped workers. Markussen is a former reporter, before working for business groups like the 7 Rivers Alliance and Chamber of Commerce.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio. Spent a majority of the show going over situation between the city, the mayor and the Harry J Olson Senior Center. The city council takes up a proposal to sell the senior center group the city-owned building for $1. Its lease ran out at the end of 2020, and it since rejected a $1 proposal from the mayor since then. Before that, we discussed another council agenda item on how the city is updating its TIF policy. Opened the show venting a bit about the Packers loss, but that led to a funny conversation about how Reynolds "mayors" (the verb) — essentially how he "coaches."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio, while retired-US Congressman calls in. On the show, we break down the US House Speaker drama. We get Kind's opinion on the matter, after he served 26 years in the US House. Also Kind recalls his experience at the Jan. 6 Capitol riot, as well as his opinion on the new, bipartisan-talking Derrick Van Orden. And we, of course, check in on Kind's plans post retirement or if the President Joe Biden White house is calling. After that, we discussed Wisconsin's state Legislature's 8-month gap in 2024, where it doesn't meet in session, as well as Assembly Speaker Robin Vos' justification to using the state's $6.6 billion budget surplus on tax cuts. Vos: "Just to be clear: [A flat tax is] not about rewarding the wealthy, even though there's absolutely nothing wrong with that." Lastly, we discuss a "Florida (wo)man" story of a House member accused of being a literal witch, and a butter factory in Wisconsin clogging the sewers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Environmental planner, Lewis Kuhlman in studio to talk about the city's Climate Action Plan. The city is working on a goal to become carbon neutral by 2050. A stepping stone to that is a multi-faceted, seven-year plan as sort of a road map to get there. Kuhlman discusses that plan — highlighting some of those 170 pages — which goes to the full city council on Jan. 12.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Tim Dale, joins. Spent most of the show breaking down Republicans in the US House selecting the Speaker. We touched on the 20 or so defectors, why they don't want Kevin McCarthy, Donald Trump's role and how this might come to an end. Also, we briefly talked about talk radio, sports vs. political coverage and whether or not the Wisconsin has a full-time state Legislature.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky and Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle join. Chergosky had to be summoned a few days early to help break down Republicans in the US House not agreeing on a Speaker — something that hasn't happened in literally 100 years. Doyle joined to talk about the Legislature meeting for the first time in what seems like 100 years — though is technically about 10 months.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
First show of 2023, so we recap 2022 one last time with WIZM's Brad Williams — some of the biggest themes of the year will continue on in the area through this and next year. After, Wisconsin Assembly Rep. Jill Billings joined to quickly break down some of her priorities and assignments this term and the Legislature getting back together after 10 months off.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, and the WIZM year-in-review. We discuss the top clicked WIZMnews.com stories of 2022 and also go over Chergosky's Top 10 story themes of the year.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Our "political blowhard," Adam Murphy joined for the hour. Murphy is the owner of Big Bang LLC, ran for US Senate in Wisconsin and holds degrees in economics and political science. On the show we discussed Wisconsin's $6.6 billion budget surplus and the low unemployment rate. Also talked about a US House member lying about everything imaginable to get elected and how political power plays a role in his potentially being kicked out of Congress. Also talked about a GOP-selected Wisconsin DNR board member costing taxpayers $76,000. And ended with some electric vehicle talk.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in studio. Among the topics covered, including the the projected $6.6 billion budget surplus, whether the state Legislature will have a 10-month "holiday" like it did in 2022 and what Pfaff has for ideas, after just being appointed to the WEDC Board of Directors.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Recovering from the Christmas holiday weekend complaining about not getting that Mercedes in the driveway, or any new Lego sets. WIZM's Brad Williams joined to talk about the Lego Masters out of Holmen and how Legos evolved but the Erector set didn't. Also ranted about how Wisconsin's DNR is politicized, somehow, and what the state is missing out on without sports gambling. Ended talking about the "free shipping" myth.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio to break down the most disliked Christmas songs, most liked Christmas movies and the US House rep that seemingly lied about everything to get elected.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Central Cares czar and success coach Brad Bryan in studio to talk about food insecurity and running the Central High School's food pantry. Also dropping in was Economic Support Manager Lorie Graff to talk about all the things La Crosse County does to help those in need, including food share, health care, child care and energy assistance.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Erin Goggins, executive director of the Harry J Olson Senior Center, and her lawyer, Terry Collins, in studio to discuss the ongoing dispute/negotiations between them and the city of La Crosse on the future of that building. The lease ended in 2020, and the senior center is hoping to stay in the building permanently, buying the property at 1607 North Street from the city for $1 — an offer that was previously offered to them, which they did not accept.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Micheal Kurz, the Warning Coordination Meteorologist at the National Weather Service La Crosse in studio. Aside from reviewing the best/worst weather movies -- and he has yet to see Sharknado -- we previewed the bitter cold, snowy upcoming weather heading into Christmas, and we recapped what's perhaps La Crosse's craziest weather systems, which happened on Dec. 15, 2021.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined to discuss everything from meeting with US House-elect Derrick Van Orden to bipartisan legislation coming from, perhaps, the most opposite US Senators in the history of our country — Tammy Baldwin and Ron Johnson. And that legislation: The FDA doesn’t deem cranberries healthy. That bled into a Mariah Carey Christmas conversation and the show ended talking about Uncrustables PB&Js.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Coulee Region Wildlife Rehabilitator Kathy KasaKaitas dropped in to tell some stories about rescuing animals. She's working with 1,000-1,200 rescues a year and is pretty much self-funded through donations and grants. She told us two big stories over the past year they've helped with, including a bald eagle that was hit by a train and some baby barn owls nesting in Onalaska — the first nest found in Wisconsin in 21 years. We also discussed the city of La Crosse ending its contract with Coulee Region Humane Society to take animal calls and how that affects them going forward.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse outreach coordinator, Spencer Wilken, nicknamed Mrs. Photon, in studio to talk science. The big news for, not just the week, but the century, maybe ever, is scientists at a lab in California, have fused the atom -- they did fusion. We try to dissect. Before that, we talked about the diminishing snow in Wisconsin over the past few decades, as well as some snow facts from the state. Ended the show, quick, talking about real Christmas tree vs. fake tree.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo economist John Robinson joined the show to help explain how Wisconsin ended up with a $6.6 billion projected budget surplus. In reference to that conversation, we also had to dive into how inflation has played a role in the surplus, as well as record-corporate profits happening at the same time.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kathy Harris, the Clean Vehicle and Fuels advocate for the NRDC, joined to talk about why the world needs to transition to electric vehicles. First, of course, the why — the impact of oil/gas vehicles versus electric. After that, some of the ins and outs about that transition, including the need — or lack thereof — for charging stations at every "Kwik Trip" (gas station), how the tax credit has changed recently for buying an EV and how the US compares to the rest of the world in the transition, among other things.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Fire Chief Jeff Schott in studio. He's six months into the job, but 22 years with the department. As the Chief, he did not drive the giant ladder truck to the studio, but he did say he can take it out now whenever he wants. It's been a busy week for the department and we talked about why that might be. There have also been two huge downtown La Crosse fires in the past two years, so we discussed those, as well. We got a little bio from him, as he's the new chief and we also discussed what involves becoming a firefighter, the city's future plans for new fire stations and if the department gets a lot of "cats in tree" calls, as the police department is about to take animal control responsibility in the city.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Longtime La Crosse Central Spanish teacher John Havlicek joined. Among the topics discussed included the state of teachers and the teaching profession right now, where the La Crosse School District goes with a consolidation plan, and just some interesting aspects Havlicek experiences in teaching. In the middle, however, we also talked politics, including the effects of rigging district lines for one party or another.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Rep. Jill Billings of La Crosse in studio. Among the topics discussed included running for local office versus campaigning in state races. We also hit on the lack of Democratic voices being heard, when statewide races are 50-50, yet the 99 Assembly sets only have 35 Democrats. Billings also talked out where the state will go with a projected $6.6 billion budget surplus, and we hit quick on topics like marijuana legalization and PFAS.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio. We discussed an upcoming lobbying effort to get the federal government to address drought along the Mississippi River. We also talked about how development is going in the River Point District, which is the old Mobil Oil site. The mayor comes on the Monday before the monthly city council meeting, which will be addressing a new contract and responsibilities with the Coulee Region Humane Society, as well as Pearl Street funding. Lastly, we hit on a south side building the city owns, and the lack of an agreement for years with the group that runs a senior center there.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio. Began and ended the show on the important topics, including Dunkin' Donuts in La Crosse and suing Kraft because it takes too long to microwave Mac n Cheese. In between that, we discussed the "nonpartisan" spring elections coming up that are becoming all too partisan and why Donald Trump didn't campaign for losing GOP candidate Tim Michels, up against Gov. Tony Evers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John Siegel, who will become La Crosse County's sheriff on Jan. 2, spent the hour in studio. A lot of the conversation centered around how Siegel wants to create and expand lines of communication with the public through town hall-like events, social media and the media. We also talked about the county being the first in the state to allow free phone calls for people in jail, and the makeup of the jail, in general. We did open the show talking about football, however, as John's son, C.J. just wrapped up his senior year a standout corner at North Dakota.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School District superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel, joined for the hour. We hit on a lot of topics, beginning with whether we still have snow days, being students can "remote learn" now. We spent the second half of the show going over the aftermath of not passing the $194.7 million question, to build a new high school on the south side, and where the district — and when — goes from there. Also talked about the lack of state funding that affects every other aspect of the school district. And, in there, we hit on some of the programs La Crosse does with apprenticeships that perhaps weren't a thing back when their parents were in school.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Common Cause Wisconsin executive director Jay Heck joined to talk about "gerrymandering," a term that does not elude to what is actually happening in Wisconsin and other states. Map-rigging, a better phrase, as Heck explains how this past election exploited power even more and how an upcoming Wisconsin Supreme Court race becomes the most important in the country.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in the WIZM studio. Capping off the holiday week, we talk a lot of nonsense about Black Friday and Thanksgiving themed movies. We did, however, get very serious for a bit on the La Crosse County sheriff's race that was recently and seemingly reluctantly conceded by Republican Fritz Leinfelder, giving Democrat John Siegel the win.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Education Association President Jesse Martinez and Wisconsin Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle on the show. Spent most of the time with Martinez talking about the future consolidation plans of the school district and how combining and middle and high school might work — or not work. Doyle joined to talk about Wisconsin's ever-growing budget surplus, that is projected to hit $6.6 billion by July. Doyle has said repeatedly the Legislature should be doing something with this money yesterday. We hear his ideas.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Board chair Monica Kruse in the WIZM studio. Kicked off talking quick about what she's learned in her 14 years on the board. After that, discussed the news that Wisconsin has a $6.6 billion budget surplus and what the state Legislature could do for counties with that money it has been sitting on since January in an election year. After that, we highlighted the board's passing of a $208 million 2023 budget and ended with where they're at in the hiring process for administrator — the county's most important position.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in the WIZM studio. Opened the show following up on a conversation from last week about a Florida man packing a gun in a raw chicken while going through airport security. So, we brought in La Crosse Regional Airport director Ian Turner to walk us through what kind of meats we can and can't bring through TSA. After that, WIZM's Brad Williams described the scene at the La Crosse County sheriff's race recount began this morning and dueling lawyers for both parties were present. We also discussed whether Congress is trying to break up the monopoly that is Ticketmaster or is it just trying to appease the hundred million Taylor Swift "Swifties" out there who can't get tickets. Lastly, recapped the amount of money on the ballot in terms of school referendums — and how many passed, which in La Crosse it did not — while the GOP-controlled state Legislature continues to sit on what's estimated to be a $6 billion budget.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse Outreach Specialist Spencer Wilken in the WIZM studio to talk science. We hit on everything from space to the Earth, or water. The world now has 8 billion people. Is that sustainable? In relation to that, scientists are growing meat — not the plant-based stuff you see, but basically chicken breasts. Spencer also had to get her take on Betelguese (not the movie Beetlejuice), though that did spark a debate about sci-fi movies. Ended the show talking about the 5,000 Tundra Swans on the Mississippi River near La Crosse right now.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Our political blowhard, Adam Murphy joins. Murphy ran as a Democrat in the Wisconsin US Senate race for what is now Ron Johnson’s seat for the next six years. We discuss how that happened, as the same batch of voters also elected a Democratic governor. We also talk about how Wisconsin got what’s projecting to be a $6 billion budget surplus and what to do with that now. Murphy owns a small business called Big Bang LLC. He also has degrees in economics — working on his Masters there — and political science from UW-Milwaukee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Tim Dale in the WIZM studio, recapping the midterm elections. Why are Democrats happy when Republicans won back a majority? How did Wisconsin's elections go? How much more engaged are young people? And do the yard signs work?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Clerk Ginny Dankmeyer on WIZM broke down election day, what she thought of voter turnout and the processes that happen next.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent most of the show on the referendum by the La Crosse School District's to build a new high school for $194.7 million not passing. WIZM's Brad Williams broke down the news conference the district had Wednesday. We also worked in La Crosse County clerk Ginny Dankmeyer and her post-election day hangover to discuss how everything went and what's left to do, including a possible La Crosse County sheriff race recount.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Democracy Campaign executive director Matt Rothschild joined (24:00) to talk about the money floating around Wisconsin politics, as the governor's race has the most money in the U.S. Began the show, however, just breaking down election day, which included a quick elections update (20:45) La Crosse County Clerk Ginny Dankmeyer.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
County clerk Ginny Dankmeyer on La Crosse Talk PM at 5:30 p.m. Tuesday for a quick elections update.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio Monday covering a lot of ground. Spent the first part of the show talking about the homeless situation and, perhaps not related, the messaging around a person who died in the park last week. Discussed the La Crosse School District plan some more, and how that will affect the city. In relation to that — and homelessness — we hit on affordable housing in the city a couple different times. And, somewhere in there, we discussed the state's potential $6 billion budget surplus that's been lying around since January, while the Legislature has been out of session the past nine months.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Anthony Chergosky, Ph.D. in studio, as the midterm election season winds down. Part of that discussion was polling on whether the Tuesday election day should be a holiday or a paid holiday. Also talked Bernie Sanders at UW-La Crosse and these figures who are phenomenons to political scientists. Democratic US House candidate Jeff Ettinger joined for a few, as he tries to win Minnesota's 1st Congressional District. Ended the show talking about how people hit deer drastically more right after we "fall back" with Daylight Saving Time ending.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A year ago, the Senate accidentally passed permanent Daylight Savings — so we wouldn't change our clocks in November or ever again. It's sitting in the US House for passage. Congressman Ron Kind, who's retiring after 26 years, joined to talk about that, some of the things the House has done to combat inflation and why he thinks Brad Pfaff is right for his job. Before that, UW-L Outreach Specialist, Spencer Wilken and Rochester Mayo HS physics teacher Matt Drucker joined to recap the Bill Nye presentation that happened this week at Winona State.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Homeless Services coordinator, Brian Sampson, joined the show, as the city's campground designation at Houska Park came to an end this week, but the move out of that has yet to begin. Before that, however, US House Rep., Republican Brad Finstad hopes to continue in office, after a special election this summer. He's running against Democrat Jeff Ettinger.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Joe Heim, UW-La Crosse Professor Emeritus, in the WIZM studio Tuesday, a week before the fall election cycle ends. Of course, the discussion hovered around those races — including the 3rd US House District between Brad Pfaff and Derrick Van Orden. With Gov. Tony Evers in town at UW-L we discussed whether campaign stops to get college students to vote is worth it. We also discussed campaign spending, the partisan races that could be nonpartisan, and a potential change of guard of the committee in Wisconsin that controls elections.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Onalaska School Superintendent Todd Antony in the WIZM studio Monday to talk about the district's two referendum questions on the ballot. One question is a five-year operational question which essentially is to pay for day-to-day operations. The other is a $75 million capital referendum for building updates to both the middle and high school.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia in studio. Discussed a variety of topics, including people's attention spans, social media/news notifications and student reading scores to start. Also had to hit on some Halloween theme topics including, not just what you're handing out to trick-or-treaters, but how you're delivering that candy — if it is candy, for those toothbrush folks out there. Ended the show going over the texts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse public administration professor John Kovari made his WIZM debut, and helped try to explain the recent tax revaluation in the city of La Crosse — and elsewhere — and what that means for people's property tax bill. In the midst of that discussion, Kovari uses a Big Mac analogy. And, in no relation to that analogy, Kovari also talks a bit about taxing our vices, including Wisconsin legalizing recreational marijuana.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tim Dale is a UW-La Crosse political science professor who specializes in political philosophy and American politics. We spent the hour talking about how unique Wisconsin voters are when it comes to statewide races and, basically, how unpredictable they can be. We also discussed debates, voter turnout and took some calls.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Board Vice Chair Kim Cable joined to talk about homelessness in the area. Cable is also Couleecap’s Housing and Community Services Director. Cable talked about why the homeless situation has grown to unprecedented numbers. What she thinks of the Houska Park "campground" plan, that's one week from ending, and what the county is doing both short- and long-term to help people who are unsheltered.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Samantha Williams is the director of the climate and clean energy program of the Midwest Region for the NRDC. She joined for the hour to talk about the transition to clean energy and why we — people of Earth — need to do it now. Those transitions start at the top with utility companies and trickle down from there, with things like home heating/cooling and transportation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Anthony Chergosky, Ph.D, in the WIZM studio Friday. Kicked off the show way too serious on a local debate and how schools should be funded. Lightened it up after that discussing Halloween movies and where horror movies stand in a political light. Then we dived into the politics and policy of trying to solve homelessness, after the La Crosse County Board approved funding for potentially hotel vouchers. Ended on a lighter note, again, on the “say something nice” debate question that’s becoming popular.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse Outreach Specialist Spencer Wilken in the WIZM studio to talk science. We dove into why there’s a mass die-off of snow crabs and the harvest has been halted for a year in Alaska. We also talked about NASA crashing a drone into an asteroid and new, haunting James Webb telescope images. Wrapped up talking about why mosquitoes may like you more than others and flustered Spencer by trying to make her explain quantum physics in 3 minutes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff in the WIZM studio. Pfaff is also running for the US House of Representatives in the 3rd District and we bounced between state and federal issues on manufacturing, inflation, jobs, among other things. After that, La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron called in to talk about the Community Resource Unit, which will be on display for the state this week. The CRU is basically an officer and a mental health professional teamed up to take specific calls for their expertise. We also asked Kudron, when candidates always talk about "supporting police," what that support could be.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds on WIZM Tuesday to talk about the city’s tax revaluation and what that means for your property tax bill. Those assessments should be in residents’ mailboxes now. Before that, La Crosse Center director Art Fahey joined, two days before he’s officially retired after 32 years on the job — 22 as director. We did some reminiscing on La Crosse Talk PM about past shows at the Center and what the Center Board and city are discussing for leadership going forward.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Began the show recapping the Charlie Berens experience over the weekend. The comedian performed two sold out shows at the La Crosse Center. After that, ranted quick about the Hy-Vee opening and the fact that there are now three Starbucks in one block in La Crosse. Ended talking about downtown cameras with La Crosse Police Sgt. Brooke Pataska. The city and police want to raise $50,000 to install more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle in studio. Along with representing the 95th District, Doyle is also a La Crosse County Board member. Part of the discussion was county referendum going on the November ballot, which led to a Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers special session on the state having binding referendum. We also discussed the state's predicted $5 billion budget surplus and school referendums, with La Crosse, Holmen and Onalaska all asking for over $340 million.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio. Kicked off the show talking about whether there should be crowds at political debates, as the Mandela Barnes-Ron Johnson faceoff had the night before. Later in the show, we discussed how politicians are prepared, yet not quite prepared enough, to answer softball, "Say something nice about your opponent?" question. In between that, we hit on the state's $4.3 billion budget surplus and the politics around doing nothing with that taxpayer money.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Long-time Central Spanish teacher John Havlicek in studio. Highlight of the show was brainstorming ways to make debates a little more entertaining — like, perhaps, more like a game show. Started and ended the show talking about teaching and the demand/strain on teachers right now.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After ranting for a bit on a bit of everything from inflation to Oktoberfest to voting, we bring on Chris Haskell, the chair of the Voter Services Committee at the League of Women Voters in La Crosse. She talked about how the Davis brothers, Johnny and Jordan, showed the initiative to help with a "get out the vote" campaign, with the mid-terms less than a month away now. Johnny Davis currently plays for the Washington Wizards, while his twin brother Jordan is a guard for the Wisconsin Badgers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds in studio. Spent a majority of the time on three big topics. One of those, the La Crosse Police Department's Community Resource Unit, which could be highlighted next week for a statewide convention hosted at the La Crosse Center. Also detailed an affordable-housing plan the city council's voting on and comparing that to a plan from 2017. Lastly, the city's about to send out property valuation tax assessments, where tax bills could go down. Also talked briefly at the beginning and end of show about homeless situation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio. Spent a lot of the show discussing how a year ago the US Senate passed a bill making Daylight Saving time permanent and the US House has yet to vote on it. Also talked about debate season, with Ron Johnson and Mandela Barnes for Wisconsin's US Senate seat, as well as Derrick Van Orden refusing to debate Brad Pfaff for the US House 3rd District, that includes the La Crosse area.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A record for La Crosse Talk PM with four guests in an hour, led off by WIZM’s Brad Williams, 24 hours away from the US Senate debate in Milwaukee between Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes and Sen. Ron Johnson. After that, La Crosse teachers’ union president Jesse Martinez on teacher pay, funding education and student mental health. After that, GOP candidate for the 94th Assembly, Ryan Huebsch on his priorities if elected. We also discussed a flat tax and the state’s $5 billion budget surplus. Lastly, unofficially, William Garcia, the La Crosse County Democratic Party chair, reared his head in studio.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Adam Murphy is what we call our political blowhard. The former Democratic US Senate candidate in Wisconsin is a successful small business owner — a tech nerd — who's gone back to get his Master's in political science and business. With news that US Senate candidate, Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes just raised $20 million more, we asked Murphy what he'd have done with the money. We also discussed how campaigns and ads should be directed at the public vs. how they are now. In terms of politics themselves, Murphy straight up thinks the GOP is trying to steal power, while not focusing on anyone's issues. At the end of the show, Murphy explains inflation and the fed raising rates to combat that.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke joined for the hour. Spent the majority of the show discussing the multiple controversies dealing with the parole of Terrance Shaw, who was convicted of sexual assault and murder of an Onalaska woman in the 1980s. After that we discussed the vagueness of political ads on "crime" and some of the specifics the state could do to actually help solve crime. Began the show talking quick about the idea of traffic cams.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo associate professor of business, John Robinson in studio. We solved the inflation crisis which then stopped the potential upcoming recession. Robinson helped navigate the idea of the fed raising interests rates to step inflation but not so much that it triggers a recession.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio. A rollercoaster of a Friday. We had some fun talking about some Oktoberfest traditions that no longer are practiced, like tossing beer into the air and selecting Mrs. Oktoberfest based on a contest judging women's "poise and personality, cooking and homemaking skills." Kicked off the show taking a deep dive on some political news, including the Wisconsin's governor race with the most ad spending in the US and candidates flip-flopping on certain issues. We also talked about Oxycontin and the pharmaceutical lawsuit, after No. 3 called.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Police Sgt. Brooke Pataska joined to talk about how they will handle Oktoberfest this weekend. Before that, Explore La Crosse executive director AJ Frels on the impact Oktoberfest has on the La Crosse Area.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brad Quarberg, a bit of a historian when it comes to La Crosse’s Oktoberfest, joined in studio. Quarberg was the 2016 Oktoberfest Parade Marshall and Oktoberfest Board President back in 2001. He also was chief editor and one of the authors of the book, The Fest of Times, a look back on 50 years of Oktoberfest from back in 2010. We talked Tuesday on La Crosse Talk PM about how four golfing buddies started this major event 62 years ago and how things like the Maple Leaf and Torchlight Parades came to be, as well as how becoming Mrs. Oktoberfest has evolved over the years.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked Oktoberfest with WIZM's Brad Williams, as he just came from a secret meeting of fest royalty. Before that, Infection Preventionist Megan Meller with Gundersen on how the flu could be troublesome this winter.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A revelation at the end of the show in regards to guest UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky. He's never seen the movie What About Bob. The reference came up in a discussion about GOP governor candidate Tim Michels walking back — "baby steps" if you will — his stance on abortion. And along those lines, we discussed how politicians base their decisions to create or adjust laws. Other topics included how US Senate Republicans denied a bill to keep dark money out of politics and Halloween candy — but those topics were unrelated.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Board chair Monica Kruse in studio. Hit on a vast amount of items, including how the county is handling childcare, homelessness and the roads. We discussed the finalization of the yearly budget, where the board is at distributing ARPA funding and the timeline for hiring a new County Administrator.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo University Ethics Culture and Society professor, Dr. Keith Knutson joined. We first talked about a speaker at Viterbo, Gary Tyler, who was wrongfully convicted of murder at 17 years old and spent 41 years in prison. After that, we argued about the political atmosphere right now, what side might have the advantage heading into the midterms and the idea of having or not having candidates debate.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jayne Swiggum in studio. She’s an Emergency Room Registered Nurse, who is running for state Assembly in Wisconsin’s 96th District — which is a vast area south of La Crosse. Some of the things we hit on were, of course, healthcare and legalizing marijuana. Also talked about women’s right to choose, as well as teacher pay and funding education.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse city council member Chris Woodard is running for Wisconsin state Assembly here in the 95th District. The Republican is going against incumbent Jill Billings. Woodard joined the second half of the show to discuss the issues of legalizing marijuana, fixing the roads, funding schools, PFAS and working in a bipartisan matter. Before that, we took some calls and discussed some of those same issues leading up to the interview.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse Outreach Coordinator, Spencer Hulsey, in studio to talk science. One topic discussed was what scientists do when they're bored, and that's apparently breaking down Game of Thrones and whether dragons could fly. We also hit on the Doomsday glacier melt in Antarctica, as well as the arms race between Australia and its Cockatoos. Oh, and we also now know how big space is.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Anthony Chergosky, Ph.D, in studio. Spent some time talking about the FBI "raid" of the MyPillow guy at a Hardee's drive-thru in Mankato, Minnesota, where we broke even more news. Also talked about the scam Brett Favre pulled with Mississippi welfare money. Kicked off the show with some good news from WIZM's Brad Williams at the Logan pep rally. Also talked about the Elmer's Auto & Toy auction. Ended the show with Republican Derrick Van Orden's rejection of a debate in the US House race against Brad Pfaff.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board president Juan Jimenez joined. Started off with a little La Crosse history dealing with the schools and joked with him about past contention between the school board president and the superintendent. After that, talked about the newly appointed school board member and the ability of members to talk to the media. Wrapped up talking about the district's $194.7 million referendum.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Onalaska Mayor Kim Smith dropped by the WIZM studio. Kicked off the show talking about her position as mayor, some of the unique things the city is doing with the fire department and where Onalaska is at with budget limits, yet rising inflation. Also got an update on what's going in the old Shopko and if we can just turn that whole area into one big roundabout.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John Siegel in studio, as he runs for sheriff in La Crosse County. After talking some football, we did get around to some issues that the Sheriff’s Office deals with, including making the job more appealing for deputies, as well as jailers, and how each law enforcement agency — like city police and county sheriff’s — communicates with each other. Siegel also talked about the Sheriff’s Office being a bigger part of the community and how it could be more open to the public.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Elmer's Auto & Toy Museum in Fountain City, Wis., goes to auction Sept. 14-17. One of the biggest auction companies in the world, Mecum Auctions, is conducting the event. John Kraman, the TV voice of Mecum, joined to talk why Mecum is in tiny Fountain City and why the items at Elmer's are so sought after worldwide. We also talked about some of the most expensive auctions Mecum has ever hosted.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia joined. Spent quite a bit of the show talking about conversion therapy, as the La Crosse city council this week banned it. We also discussed what the Oath Keepers are about, as a Holmen Village Board member was found to be on a leaked list from the group. Other topics included a racist name being wiped from federal sites -- 28 in in Wisconsin -- ranked-choice voting and the GOP vs. Gov. Tony Evers on using opioid settlement money.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Anthony Chergosky, Ph.D, joined. A big portion of the show was spent trying to dissect some of the Donald Trump-Top Secret document saga that's brewing. We also discussed how the 2023 election cycle has already started in Wisconsin, as well as Pumpkin Spice season.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We like to call him a political blowhard, Adam Murphy joined to talk about student loan forgiveness. We also discussed PPP loans, as Murphy owns a small business called Big Bang, LLC. Murphy was also one of around a dozen who ran for US Senate in Wisconsin to go up against Ron Johnson.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joined. Among the topics discussed included the city council meeting to discuss where they're at with helping unsheltered as we head into winter. Also talked about the school district's $194.7 million consolidation plan and how that affects the city. Hit on the River Point District and some potential cuts the city will need to make because of a lack of funding, as the state sits on a $5 billion budget surplus.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Anthony Chergosky, Ph.D, on a Friday news dump. We did hit on Ozzy Osbourne leaving the US because it's too "f***ing ridiculous out there." Politically, Tim Micheals wants to get out the pitchforks and torches based on a story from open records, another GOP candidate refuses to say if he'll support Trump and Mandela Barnes is spending a lot on security.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Sheriff's Office investigator Fritz Leinfelder joined in studio. Leinfelder is one of two candidates running for sheriff. He's going against John Siegel. On the show, we discussed the mental health aspect of the job, as it’s now Suicide Awareness month. We also talked about the county’s dilemma of keeping jailers and what can be done there. Leinfelder also revealed some of the endorsements he’s received.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mark Neumann in studio to talk about city council and local government a bit, as well as his experience in running for the US House of Representatives here for the 3rd Congressional District. Part of the conversation was about the Finance and Personnel Committee meeting coming up Thursday, which includes the Capital Improvement Budget ($40 million in spending for 2023) and the next five years.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
State Assembly Rep. Jill Billings of La Crosse joined for the hour. The topics we covered included the DOT's roundabout plan in La Crosse and what she, as a state rep., can do in regards to plans like that. Also hit on funding education and alternatives to a partisan race for county sheriffs. Closed out the show talking about the Gov. Tony Eves tax cut proposals, that the Republicans have called a gimmick -- despite giving out $100 checks to parents at exactly this time with their party's governor.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
On her birthday, Rick's mom joined to start the show and tell some horror stories about raising three boys. After that, UW-La Crosse political science professor, Anthony Chergosky, Ph.D., in studio. We discussed how politics ruins state fairs and city parades, plus money in politics — the hypocrisy of governor candidate Tim Michels asking for money.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A potential lawsuit if the city enacts a conversion therapy ban. Wisconsin Institute for Law and Liberty president and general counsel, Rick Esenberg, joined for a bit to discuss reasoning why they might sue La Crosse. WIZM's Brad Williams joined in that conversation. Before and after that, discussed with callers and texters the student loan forgiveness plan President Joe Biden announced, as well as more on the conversion therapy ban.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spencer Hulsey, UW-La Crosse outreach coordinator, in studio to talk science. Biggest topics we hit on were a potential end to PFAS, UFOs may not be "man made," what a black hole sounds like, terrible climate news is great news for paleontology and we're following moths with airplanes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse Chancellor Joe Gow joined. Hit on a lot of topics, led off by some of the details in the Wisconsin Promise plan that was just introduced last week. The program essentially gives students with families making under $62,000 a year tuition free college. We also hit on the UW Board of Regents release of its two-year, $2.5 billion projects list, which includes $237.4 million for UW-La Crosse — the biggest part there and what we spent the most time on, Phase 2 of the Prairie Springs Science Center. Gow also noted a record in regards to the incoming class this fall and talked about delays with the opening of the new athletic fieldhouse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Education Association president (teachers' union president) Jesse Martinez joined. Hit on a host of topics, including the number of teacher-contract positions that have left the school district, a new way of grading, how grand it is for teachers to have summers off and teacher pay.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Anthony Chergosky, Ph. D., joined. One of the things we talked about was "quiet quitting" and how that's not at all what it sounds like when it comes to work. We got into that category because of another phrase, "nobody wants to work anymore," which doesn't seem quite right, either.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick's dad joins in the second half of the show to talk about his time in the Navy on the CV-19 USS Hancock Aircraft Carrier, during the Vietnam War, as well as taking the Honor Flight to DC out of Oshkosh last month. Before that, Brad Duellman discussed his dad's Auto & Toy Museum in Fountain City, which has one-of-a-kind items. It will be auctioned off by Mecum Auctions next month.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John Siegel joined to talk about why he's running for sheriff in La Crosse County. Among the topics discussed were, of course, Siegel’s reasoning for running, his qualifications. We also talked about Siegel’s family makeup, with three adopted African-American children and a wife who is also African-American, and how that has shaped his perspective. In terms of matters directly dealing with the sheriff’s office, we discussed the potential citizens’ policing board, school resource officers, and the big responsibilities the office deals with, including drugs and guns.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jason Gilman, the planning group leader at ISG Inc., joined to talk about the future of Pearl Street in downtown La Crosse from the riverfront up to 4th street. No curbs, no cars, a ferris wheel? The city is in the planning phase for re-conceptualizing that section of road, ahead of future Wisconsin DOT plans.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We bring in the expert, UW-La Crosse political science professor, Anthony Chergosky, Ph. D., to break down how divided America is on whether they'd go out to eat if they couldn't use their phone. We also discussed some politics, including how Donald Trump's endorsement changes before and after the primary, and how a Joe Biden endorsement would work. We also hit on the $1.1 million, taxpayer-funded 2020 election investigation being ended by Wisconsin's top Republican, and whether or not that was simply to get — or not get — votes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Schools Superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel joined, to talk about the district's consolidation plan down to one high school, with a $194.7 million referendum heading to the November ballot. Before that, we talked quick about the F-35 flyover and then no flyover. After, WIZM's Brad Williams gave a quick update on the city's plan to end -- sort of -- alternate side parking.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Despite it being his 31st wedding anniversary, Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff stopped in studio, fresh off winning the Democratic primary for the 3rd Congressional District in the US House of Representatives. Played a little joke on Pfaff to start the show, in regards to that anniversary. After that, talked about some state Senate stuff, before diving into some of the issues he'd want to focus on if he's the US House representative.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joined Monday, as he does each month the week of the city council meeting. On the show, we discussed the council's plan to sort of end alternate-side parking for snow emergencies. We also dived into the La Crosse School District $194.7 million referendum due to a lack of state funding and where the city is at with state funding. Lastly, we touched on roundabouts and a pipe-dream of an idea for housing. Oh, we did kick off the show talking about high school football.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-L political science professor Anthony Chergosky in studio, as Donald Trump holds a rally on the other side of the state for his GOP governor candidate. As we discussed that race, the number of diapers a baby uses an hour and how even the Cracker Barrel is now politicized, Chergosky rattles off tweets referring to the Trump rally.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kou Lee joined the show to talk about running for Senate, why Hmong always end up playing volleyball — and how that relates to his candidacy — and the backstory of his family's struggle coming from Laos to freedom in the United States. Lee is one of five Democratic candidates running for US Senate in Wisconsin. The voting primary ends Tuesday, Aug. 9.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fritz Leinfelder is running for sheriff in La Crosse County. He's one of two Republican candidates on the ballot looking to replace the retiring Jeff Wolf. The primary voting period ends August 9. We discussed everything from the biggest responsibilities within a sheriff's office to mental health to Leinfelder’s experiences that he believes will make him a good sheriff.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Another interesting La Crosse School Board meeting this week saw the resignation in protest by member Rob Abraham. School Board president Juan Jimenez joined to talk about the dilemma in how the school district consolidates, with a $194.7 million November referendum on the ballot as the focal point now. Before that, one of the five Democratic candidates left running to replace Ron Johnson, Steven Olikara joined to discuss how he would handle the role of US Senator.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Marte Peterson is running for sheriff in La Crosse County. He's one of two Republican candidates on the ballot looking to replace the retiring Jeff Wolf. The primary voting period ends August 9. We discussed everything from the responsibilities within a sheriff's office to mental health to Peterson's experiences that he believes will make him a good sheriff.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor joins to break down all the biggest questions, including the number of chicken sandwiches or Chipotle burritos an hour it would take for you to work in fast food. Also, would the Klondike Choco Taco exist in your school's vending machine today? We kicked off the show talking a bit about the GOP governor candidates in Wisconsin and about three-quarters through discussed how the 3rd US House district in the state is one of the biggest in the nation. Ended the show with two very important cat stories — including a Mewsuem owning in Wisconsin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Political blowhard is what we like to call Adam Murphy, who joined to talk a little of everything. We hit on fixing the roads and electric vehicles — his Mach-E is in the shop — to breaking down some of the primary candidates and debates. That included the GOP governor's race and Democratic US Senate race in Wisconsin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking about a story we missed the day before, talking science, and that "necrobotic spiders" could be used to make deliveries — basically zombie spiders. After that, WIZM's Brad Williams joins to talk about the Jackson Greengrass court hearing. He's one of three teens involved in a shootout and homicide on the southside of La Crosse. That led to a guns conversation. Finished the show talking about electrical-line workers out in the midst of a lightning storm, fixing my power.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse outreach coordinator Spencer Hulsey in studio. Talked about her experience behind possibly being the artist of the University of Illinois newest mascot. Before that, we discussed PFAS pollution with US Senate candidate in Wisconsin, Sarah Godlewski, who was in La Crosse. After, we discussed the Arizona plan to tap the Mississippi River for water.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US House Rep. Ron Kind of La Crosse joined. He and WIZM's Brad Williams talked a bit about the Jan. 6 committee hearings. After that, we discussed whether we're having a dueling culture war in politics right now between the left and the right. Concluded talking about Congress again rubber stamping an increase to the military budget, which is around $840 billion next year. Before that, we talked with National Weather Service La Crosse's Kate Abbott on this past weekend's tornado and storms.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Anthony Chergosky, Ph.D., joined. His take after the Jan. 6 finale was the need for movie credit bloopers to come back. We also discussed how many telephone numbers you have memorized and that La Crosse cracked the Top 100 of most livable cities. Politics wise, Chergosky spent time breaking down the Vos-Trump meeting and the dirt on GOP governor candidate Tim Michels that's been coming out.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke joined. Hit on a bunch of topics, including a rise in gun violence, Wisconsin's dueling, the benefits of decriminalizing/legalizing marijuana and ancient abortion-ban laws. Started the show quick talking about a need for increased ability to get help with mental health.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Three-tiered show today. Spent the first half talking about the PFAS dilemma with, first, WIZM's Brad Williams and then Town of Campbell board member Lee Donahue. This comes hours after Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers was in town. After that, we talked about the week-long airshow at the EAA with Dick Knapinski. Lastly, I rant about BMW charging a subscription fee for heated seats.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent most of the show talking about a photo on the La Crosse County Sheriff's Facebook page, which shows one deputy flashing the "OK" sign that has been hi-jacked by white supremacist groups. Also talked a bit about the La Crosse School Board's decisions to put a $194.7 million referendum question to the ballot and approve a 2% raise for teachers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two Democratic candidates running for federal offices on the show today. The first, 3rd Congressional District, US House candidate Rebecca Cooke stopped in from knocking on doors in 90-degree heat and no a/c in her SUV. After that. US Senate candidate Peter Pakarsky, who was left off the debate stage, called in.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We bring in the expert, UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, to talk about, of course, state fair food. We precluded that, however, with the notion of legalizing marijuana in Wisconsin — something the GOP-controlled Wisconsin state Legislature can't do, because it's off for 10 months this year. Opened the show, though, talking about the timing for former President Donald Trump announcing a 2024 run.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse city clerk Nikki Elsen joined to talk about the process for replacing a city council member, as Justice Weaver announced his resignation earlier that day. She also breaks down the city's plan to add absentee ballot boxes, as the state Supreme Court ruled they're illegal. Before that, talked about the Taj Mahal of Kwik Trips that opened. The second half of the show, we took some calls, including the council revisiting a conversion therapy ban and marijuana penalties.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Round 2 of turning Adam Murphy into a radio pundit. We hit on the US Senate race in Wisconsin and how some are excluded from the debate. Also took some calls on past topics this week, which included homelessness and funding schools. And spent a few minutes on Amazon Prime Day and inflation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Education Association president Jesse Martinez joined. The teachers' union president discussed where the district is at with pay increases. We also compared teacher pay in La Crosse to other nearby areas and similar districts. Before that, discussed La Crosse County putting marijuana legalization on the ballot for referendum.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds stopped in studio. After doing a quick overview of the show Reacher, and a bit on La Crosse native Johnny Davis at the NBA's Summer League, we hit on both the River Point and Copper Rocks (Kmart lot) developments, before talking about the homeless situation in the city. Ended with a little snow shovel talk in July.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia joined. Kicked off the show chatting about what the nightlife was like when the Democratic Party of Wisconsin convention was held in downtown La Crosse. After that, we argued about when the primary elections should be held and Garcia agreed with Republican candidates for governor (and others) they should be moved. Wrapped up taking some calls, talking about the Supreme Court decisions both federally and in the state and hit on the Jan. 6 insurrection, as well.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, joined. We discussed some of the major decisions by both the Wisconsin Supreme Court and the US Supreme Court recently, including one in the state that could allow partisan-appointed positions to never have to leave office. We also hit on a GOP governor primary debate, where Rebecca Kleefisch and Kevin Nicholson can't talk around making an admission on the 2020 election. And, of course, the $1 million-plus, taxpayer-funded Michael Gableman investigation accumulating more lawsuits — which will also be fought with taxpayer money.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kicked off the show talking about a Wisconsin Supreme Court decision to allow the DNR policy board member, whose term expired over a year ago, to stay on indefinitely. After that, Brian Fukuda, Community Development Manager, for La Crosse County, talked about a new $2 million grant funding program for housing projects. And, lastly, International Owl Center exec. director Karla Bloem broke down the baby barn owl drama in Onalaska and a new ambassador owl at the Houston, Minn., center, beginning work Friday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's called the Dark Sky Initiative, but it's not as sinister as it sounds. Scott Lind is a retired electrical engineer, who is working on a project to get three areas in Wisconsin to become part of what's called the International Dark Sky Association -- essentially a place where you can look up and see the stars.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aaron Rupar, who just survived a toddler meltdown at DQ and went over 750,000 followers on Twitter, joined to talk about covering right-wing media and politics. We hit on some of the national talking points, including the recent news of Ron Johnson's role in trying to overturn the election, as well as the Republican Senator's ability to use the media for his benefit. Also, as a couple of Minnesota residents, we discussed the upcoming governor's race between Tim Walz and Scott Jensen. Find his stuff on Public Notice at AaronRupar.SubStack.com
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio. No, we did not deep dive into women's right to choose being taken away, left for each state to decide. We did discuss how the GOP-hired investigator into the 2020 election in Wisconsin was working out of the public library using his personal email, deleting records and not taking notes during seminars dealing with "election fraud." We also discussed ketchup Popsicles, Captain Morgan in your root beer float (as opposed to just root beer) and how Chergosky's dad still using cassette tapes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings joined. We discussed the GOP gaveling in and out of another special session in Madison, this time to do something about the state's archaic 1849 abortion ban. Also asked Billings what's she is up to, since the state Legislature is out of session for 10 months. We also hit on the near $1 million in taxpayer money to fund the GOP investigation into the 2020 election, which was at one point being done on a public computer at a library by Michael Gableman. Ended quick on teacher pay in La Crosse and school funding.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia in studio. We discussed the evolving story of Republican US Sen. Ron Johnson's role in the Jan. 6 insurrection, which also includes the GOP party chair in La Crosse County, Bill Feehan. We also previewed the Democratic Party of Wisconsin's state convention, which is being held at the La Crosse Center.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ron Johnson was supposed to be on the show today, but for some reason had to cancel. Also, news dropped during the US House committee hearing on Jan. 6 that Sen. Johnson may have been scheming to hand false GOP electoral college votes in Wisconsin and Michigan to Mike Pence to overturn Joe Biden's victory. Since Johnson cancelled, Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes, who is running for US Senate in Wisconsin, made time and called Johnson out, saying he should resign. Also discussed were some local issues, including a mural project on a downtown parking ramp and teacher pay increases.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Talk host Mike Hayes and WIZM's Brad Williams in studio to talk about Hayes being honored this week by the Wisconsin Broadcasters Association. Hayes has been doing La Crosse Talk on WIZM for 36 years. Williams started at WIZM a month before.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. Kicked off the show breaking down all the controversies in the news right now, including — and most importantly — a new taco restaurant promotion for a honey BBQ fried chicken taco. After that, hit on taxpayers funding politicians' lawyer fees, the $1 million taxpayers have put in for the GOP-election investigation. Ended ranting about a five agency manhunt, including a MN State Patrol helicopter for a guy who ran a stop sign.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Former US Senate candidate in Wisconsin, Adam Murphy joined. Spent quite a bit of the show discussing how we ended up here with $5 gasoline and tried to myth bust the dumb-it-down arguments thrown out there in politics. Also hit on the guns v. video games v. internet porn and introduced Murphy to Eric from Sparta, who asked about red flag laws.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When US House member Ron Kind doesn't join, you rant about what you were going to complain about to the Congressman -- $35 insulin prices, gas price gouging, and how a lot of consumer problems is because like four companies control the market on things like gas, meat, milk. After that, WIZM's Brad Williams discusses the "whoops, too late" protest that happened outside La Crosse City Hall against a conversion therapy ban.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse Youth & STEM outreach coordinator Spencer Hulsey joined to talk science-y stuff. She busts the Jurassic Park movies and its worst villain, along with getting into other dino nonsense. After that, we talk the origins of climate change, and wrap up with the George Webb (as Rick put it) telescope.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Central High School Spanish teacher John Havlicek, the former teachers' union president joined. We talked about La Crosse teacher pay, building consolidation and rifted a bit about when we should be teaching kids a foreign language, among other things.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky helps break down what we saw at the US House commission hearing on the Jan. 6 Capitol riots. We also hit on some Friday news dumps that included a Wisconsin Republican governor remaining on the ballot, the Wisconsin Republican "investigator" into the 2020 election having a spat in court over withholding public records and the free school lunch program getting House hearings. Lastly, we talked about the Disney wedding proposal debacle.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Retired long-time UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Joe Heim, spent the hour with us. We hit on some broad ideas surrounding the Jan. 6 commission's prime-time TV hearing, which isn't being aired on FOX but is on every other channel. Is it political or historically important? What are some comparisons in history to this hearing? Before that, we discussed how unusual Wisconsin's state government is being run — or not running.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jared Flick from the La Crosse Parks and Rec. Department joined to talk about some of the things going on this summer (pools are open), but also how those things all end in the summer, and how if only the city had a giant indoor facility that could be utilized year round. Also talked about two other things: La Crosse Police busting a pill lab and the EU mandating all electronics use the same charging cords.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School Board president Juan Jimenez joined to talk about the recent survey results asking community's opinion on supporting a $195 million referendum to consolidate, basically, to one city public high school. We also discussed the dozen teachers that commented at the board meeting over compensation. Before that, Parks and Rec. project supervisor Jim Flottmeyer updates us on two Riverside Park projects.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Disappointing, La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds has yet to do his homework and watch the show Reacher. We will do a review on that when he does. What we did discuss was the street projects going on in town, new firework regulations -- for the puppies, and maybe some people -- and fines, the 467-page city council agenda, and the city’s reaffirmation on being climate neutral by 2050.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Newly elected La Crosse Education Association president Jesse Martinez joined. We discussed how La Crosse students have been helped by the federal free school lunch program, which is ending this month. We also talked about the need for teacher raises. That conversation continued in the second half of the hour with calls and texts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sarah Godlewski is looking to take Ron Johnson's seat in the US Senate representing Wisconsin. One big issue we hit on was the overturning of Roe v. Wade. Godlewski, though, is also the Wisconsin state treasurer. We start the show breaking down a couple of things the state is doing through her office and add to how the US Senate could also be helping. Isn't helping but could be, as we discuss how most legislation dies in the Senate.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Tim Dale, joined the show. His expertise is in the "philosophy of politics." We discussed how things like the Texas elementary school massacre or the overturning of Roe vs. Wade become hyper politicized.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, joined. Of course we broke down the breastfeeding mother who saved her pet goose from an eagle swooping away with it. Before that, we talked about how long voters can stand candidates attacking each other in their party, before the primary is over and they can attack the "other side." We see this in the Wisconsin GOP governor race and the Democratic US Senate race. Also, what percent of people are paying attention months before the election, let alone local government issues. The homeless situation in La Crosse also came up, as people tend to make jokes or light of people who are in a terrible situation in life.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tom Nelson is a county executive where Rick's parents currently live. He's a former state Assembly representative in Wisconsin and running to take Ron Johnson's seat in the US Senate here in Wisconsin. On the show, we hit on student debt relief vs. corporate tax breaks, state taxpayers funding pro sports teams and foreign companies and the idea that a US Senate seat is America's easiest job because all they do is filibuster everything and rarely actually vote on issues affecting people.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse finance professor, Dr. Adam Stivers, joined to talk about what's happening with cryptocurrency, which appears to be in a free fall. We also discussed the stock market and how that's swung like a pendulum, up to and through the pandemic.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse School District superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel, joined. Among the discussion was the revised plan for School Resource Officers in schools and the proposed $194.7 million building referendum the community was just surveyed on. We also talked about how times now vs. the 1990s have changed in terms of preparing students for "life" and some of the programs, schools the district has to offer.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discussed the shooting death of a 15-year-old Logan student and some of the recent history on similar incidents for most of the show. Did start off talking about how the downtown cameras helped me out with a hit-and-run. A caller did chime in to complain about the southside gauntlet that is the creating of a roundabout at Hwy. 35/14/61.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse's Dr. Anthony Chergosky joins. We discuss the idea of a political party endorsing candidates in a primary. We also took some calls on the vitriol in politics, the name calling. Capped off the show on a couple weird McDonald's stories and a Minnesota US House candidate demanding to be on Survivor — yes, the show Survivor — because "racism."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ben Wikler, the Democratic Party chair of Wisconsin, talking only good things about Republicans heading into their state convention this weekend. Among topics, we discussed the Republican candidates for governor, Ron Johnson and Great Replacement theory. After that, WIZM's Brad Williams joined to discuss replacing the Hiawatha statue, as well as some history of the GOP endorsing governor candidates. Williams is also directing a Beatles musical in La Crescent that runs June 17-19 & 24-26.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse outreach coordinator Spencer Hulsey joined. We discussed how the new Prairie Springs science buildings will not include a planetarium and there are no plans on replacing it — therefore the public is losing its planetarium. Also discussed, on this date in 1980, Mount St. Helens erupted, and the US House held a committee on UFOs. What would aliens look like?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shelly Fortner, the Hunger Task Force of La Crosse executive director joined. We talked about the Kane Street gardens, how tough life is for those in financial distress and a bit on the baby formula shortage.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crescent Sgt. Michael Ernster joined to talk about the black bear that visited town last night. Before that, Matt Rothschild with the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign talking about the US Supreme Court decision that will allow more unchecked cash to flow into politicians' pockets. We also discussed Republicans wanting to dissolve the Wisconsin Election Commission -- maybe, as long as they get power.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Central High School Spanish teacher and La Crosse Education Association outgoing president John Havlicek joined. We discussed how the upcoming $192 million La Crosse School District referendum, teacher raises and all the economic situations surrounding schools goes back to state funding — or lack thereof.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joined for the hour. He did not, however, do his homework and watch Reacher on Prime. We did talk about No Mow May and joked the city should pass legislation to allow creeping charlies. Also hit on the state's 20-year plan to fix La Crosse Street, privatizing the La Crosse Center and powering the city's electric busses with poop (or methane gas).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show, ranting about a recent story one one Wisconsin 3rd District US House candidate getting caught with a loaded gun in his bag at the airport. After that, talked to another 3rd District candidate, Rebecca Cooke, about multiple things going in the area and beyond, including the potential overturning of Roe v. Wade and corporate price gouging, but blaming it on inflation -- despite record profits.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky is now a father. We discuss the rights a man has during what was his wife's 27-hour labor. Can you sneak out to get something to eat? After that, we talked about how someone bought a 2000-year-old priceless piece of art at a Goodwill.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lee Rasch, executive director of Leader Ethics Wisconsin, joined to talk campaign financing and ranked-choice voting. After that, WIZM's Brad Williams stopped in to describe the protest at the La Crosse County courthouse over the potential Roe v. Wade overruling by the US Supreme Court.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
First, we talked with 95.7 the Rock and the Rock Foundation's Jean Taylor (6:15) about Big Bikes for Little Tikes, which happens May 14, trying to make the wish come true for 5-year-old Rhett Carroll. After that, Star Wars fanatic Jon Weisbrod joined (18:00) to talk May the Fourth, as we geek out on everything from the movies, the cartoons and all the Disney series.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo University biology chair and entomologist, Dr. Ted Wilson, joined to talk about the city of La Crosse's effort to help pollinators this spring with "No Mow May," where homeowners can volunteer not to mow their lawns. Wilson discusses whether that's a good thing or not. We also hit on some other bug topics like murder hornets, whether the mosquitoes, ticks and gnats will be bad and the bug apocalypse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Interim Assistant Fire Chief Jeff Schott joined the show to recap the downtown La Crosse fire that claimed one building and temporarily closed some businesses adjacent to it. Schott discusses the investigation that will continue, how the fire started and compares the Indian Curry House fire on April 28, 2022, to the Casino Bar fire in 2021.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US Senate candidate here in Wisconsin, Adam Murphy, spent the hour talking about everything from culture wars in politics to inflation, gas prices, the minimum wage and electric vehicles. Murphy is one of about 10 candidates running in the Democratic primary for Senate. He also revealed he'll get one of those little cartons of milk -- like we got at school -- when he orders from the fast food joint.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Common Cause executive director Jay Heck joined to help explain how the Wisconsin Supreme Court went back on its decision to accept one set of voting maps and then took, what most experts say, is an even worse — more politically skewed — set of maps.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For the past 29 years, Russell Wilson has led the effort to cleaning up the Coulee Region's waterways. River Cleanup La Crosse takes place May 7. We talked with Wilson about how this got started and the trash we're pulling out of the area's waterways.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined, as we break down both the best and worst Easter candies, and get breaking news — the holiday weekend, Friday news dump that will have Republicans dancing in the streets, a Wisconsin Supreme Court decision that affects the entire state.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is the show Big Bang Theory an eye-roller for scientists? That was one of the things that came up in having Spencer Hulsey, the UW-La Crosse outreach specialist, in studio. She blows stuff up to help get kids interested in the field of science, where UW-L hosts a bunch of camps, most of which have scholarships. Along with the show Big Bang Theory discussion, we also talked comets and meteorites, what things we should be blowing up and how science nerds are now cool.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joined. Gave the mayor some homework for next month’s show — to watch the show Reacher, where the mayor appointed himself police chief. We discussed groundbreakings on a $200 million hospital and a $5.5 million fire department this week, how the state legislature is done for the year, while a city council pounds away every month and how the La Crosse is handling Russian sister city Dubna.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jane Klekamp, La Crosse County's associate administrator, joined to talk about some of the projects they're trying to tackle, including bridge housing for the homeless and a childcare plan with the La Crosse School District. Before we embarked on those, however, we talked about the process of acclimating seven new members to the county board.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia joined to preview Tuesday's 3rd Congressional District debate between the five candidates that's taking place at UW-La Crosse. We also discussed how Wisconsin's state Legislature is done for the year and how party politics is trickling into nonpartisan elections.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, joined. Talked about how the La Crosse County political parties get their hands into local "nonpartisan" elections and whether that's right or not. Also discussed the Wisconsin GOP doing nothing with the $5 billion budget surplus and Wisconsin Republican's partisan "investigation" into the 2020 election. Hired "investigator" Michael Gableman just was at Trump's Mar-A-Lago. But, before all that, we did break down Chergosky soon-to-be fatherhood, as his wife is due this month.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse city planning administrator, Tim Acklin, joined to talk about a campaign that just launched called Forward La Crosse. The city is seeking the public's input into what La Crosse should be over the next 20 years. We also discussed the history of La Crosse, its historic downtown district, as Acklin oversees the Heritage Preservation Commission.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Fire Chief Ken Gilliam in studio for the last time, as he gets set to take over a fire department in Avondale, Ari., near Phoenix. We discussed how he doesn't golf, hates hot weather and isn't into the Phoenix Suns -- the best team in the NBA. We also talked, of course, on where he's leaving the La Crosse F.D.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff stopped in studio to talk about what could have been done in the Legislature, since it's adjourned for the rest of 2022 now. One of those items was tax reform, including personal property tax on businesses. After that, La Crosse County clerk Ginny Dankmeyer gave us her turnout prediction and some details on Tuesday's elections.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick didn't show up, as rumors spread of his whereabouts, but UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky took over hosting duties and brought in Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle to play co-host. The two discuss what or where Rick may be, took some calls as to what should happen to him. They also did dive into some Wisconsin politics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discussed the healthcare dilemma with the Wisconsin Democratic Party chair, Ben Wikler, as well as US House candidate, Dr. Mark Neumann. Got into the politics of why healthcare with Wilker, while Neumann, a retired pediatrician, got into the nuts and bolts of what is wrong with the system.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Alexandra Zapruder joins to talk about her work studying the Holocaust and Holocaust survivors. She will be speaking at Viterbo March 31 at 7 p.m. We also discussed her grandfather, Abe Zapruder, who happened to film the JFK assassination. Before that, we discussed La Crosse backing out of purchasing the Maple Grove Motel, which was going to be used as bridge housing for the homeless.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Board chair Monica Kruse joined. We hit on a slew of topics the county is working on, including fixing the roads, a new childcare initiative, homelessness and how partisanship has crept into nonpartisan races.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Got some takes on Will Smith slapping Chris Rock at the Oscars, including from WIZM's Brad Williams, who's an awards show aficionado. Also talked a bit about news last week that La Crosse County Sheriff Jeff Wolfe was not seeking re-election and just the notion that the sheriff's position is both partisan and an elected position.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We broke down the "unanimous consent" the US Senate needed to accidentally pass permanent Daylight Saving across the country with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky. Also hit on a N.D. pastor finding the K from Kmart in his front yard, how old your kid need to be to mow the lawn and the fight two Wisconsin state legislators almost had — literal fight, not political fight.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Republican state legislators Robin Vos and Timothy Ranthum wanting to fight? La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia joined in studio. Talked first with WIZM's Brad Williams about a La Crosse history museum. Then hit on the state Democratic Party convention coming to La Crosse, before diving into Vos v. Ranthum talk.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Salvation Army of La Crosse's Krista Coey and Isaiah Thomas stopped in studio to discuss the homeless situation right now in the area. We touched on a little of everything, from what the Salvation Army does to the misconceptions of the homeless and how the city of La Crosse is handling the situation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Campbell town chair Joshua Johnson joined to talk about how French Island residents are handling the PFAS dilemma and what is being done to solve the issue.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Before and after we talked with Clark Draxler, clinical manager for Gundersen in La Crosse, about new legislation making it a felony to attack or threaten healthcare workers or their families, we discussed the city's handling of the homeless situation, as it was meeting in closed session to back out of a bridge housing deal in buying a local motel.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, joins. We discussed the very important topics like switching the clocks for Daylight Saving time at noon Friday, instead of 2 a.m. Sunday. Also, are there more doors in the world or wheels? We did discuss some politics, like the $1.5 trillion package that just past the Senate and the anniversary of Act 10 in Wisconsin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Patrick De Haan, the petroleum analyst at GasBuddy.com, joined to talk about the price of gas. After that, took some calls on what the city is doing about homelessness in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gundersen infectious specialist Megan Meller joined to talk about COVID-19 two years into a pandemic, soon to be epidemic. Why are we easing precautions, like lifting masks and how things evolved since this all began.
Also talked about a very unique run/walk that is .01 kilometers, happening at 4 p.m. Saturday on Pearl Street in La Crosse. Head down for pregame at 2 p.m.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show with WIZM's Brad Williams who was at the Valley View Mall auction. After that, US House Rep. Ron Kind of the 3rd Congressional District joined to talk about Ukraine-Russia, sanctions, Congress trading stocks, high prices and redistricting.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joined. In honor of March Madness, we got his Final Four on the city's biggest issues, which includes water quality, housing and more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. We had to get an update on the freedom trucker convoy rolling through La Crosse. After that, tried to pick Chergosky's brain on the 2020 Wisconsin election investigation report that came out this week, as well as the Wisconsin Supreme Court taking Gov. Tony Evers' voting district maps over the GOP versions.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Before we dived into Ukraine-Russia with Deb McGrath, who is running in the 3rd Congressional District for a US House of Representative seat, we had to talk about news on the Wisconsin Supreme Court accepting Gov. Tony Evers redistricting maps, and what that means for McGrath's campaign. After, we got McGrath's expertise from being in the CIA and Army for 25 years, how realistic those Jack Ryan moves and TV shows are. We also picked her brain the Russian invasion of Ukraine.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo history and political science professor, Dr. Keith Knutson joined to try and explain the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse economics professor Adam Hoffer joined to discuss the value of the Valley View Mall, as it's up for auction March 8. We also talked about inflation, wages and thriving corporations vs. dying ones -- like the ones no longer at the mall.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Just over a week ago, the city designated Houska Park in La Crosse a temporary campground, which will allow the unsheltered to stay there. A committee resolution for Tuesday wants to undo that. We talked to the author of that resolution, Chris Woodard. After that, state Rep. Jill Billings joined to discuss the Legislature cramming a ton of bills through so it can be done for the year -- by the way, it's Feb. 28.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio. Had to, of course, talk about the 500-pound bear, Hank the Tank. Also hit on an Apple ring that tracks your spouse. After that, hit on potential new Wisconsin laws penalizing jerks who harass healthcare workers, mandatory jail time for shoplifters, and 3rd-party food delivery services taking orders from restaurants that have no idea they're available for delivery.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Mark Neumann joined. He's the District 13 city council member, representing the area that includes the motel La Crosse just purchased to help the homeless through bridge housing. He's also running in the 3rd Congressional District for US House of Representatives. A lot of the discussion around issues affecting the area centered around how the community interacts with its representatives or how its reps interact with the community.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent most of the hour talking about the homeless issue in La Crosse, as the city just approved the purchase of a south-side motel to use for bridge housing. Also ranted about the Wisconsin state Legislature cramming what must be hundreds of bills right before they hit the campaign trail. Late in the show, WIZM's Brad Williams reports live on a body found in the Black River near Clinton Street.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tom Manley with the MOSES Organic Farming Conference joined. We discussed a slew of issues that deal with farming, food, food production. We also, of course, talked about coming back to to the city for what is one of the, if not the biggest event at the La Crosse Center.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Education Association president John Havlicek in studio. We talked about some of the history in La Crosse dealing with school boards and the endorsement by the Education Association of three candidates. Also discussed therapy dogs in school and some of the hot button issues that schools and school board races are dealing with.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. Started off the show with another important topic, as someone in the UP stole an entire cabin. After that got into the death of a US Congressman who represents Minnesota right here in La Crescent, then talked a lot about the Wisconsin state Legislature’s not doing, then overdoing everything.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked mental health with Sam Seefeld. He's the La Crosse County Crisis Program supervisor. Hit on an array of issues when it comes to mental health, especially the dilemma of how you even diagnose it to where you go if you determine you have a problem. Also hit on the impact farming, veterans and remote work/learning have on mental health.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two guests today. Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff stopped in studio quick to talk about the governor's $150 checks to residents. After that, University of Minnesota geologist, climate scientist, Dr. Peter Neff, was on to discuss his work in Antarctica, drilling two miles into the ice to study the air. Neff is a glaciologist. They pull up these ice cores to study what the climate, what the air was like as far back as 800,000 years ago.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked quite a bit about Dr. Dre, Snoop Dogg and the Super Bowl halftime show. Also hit on how overrated Valentine's Day is for some, and awful for others, plus how all V-day candy is terrible. Lastly, did touch on the fake flyer made to draw attention to the Holmen School Board race.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Friday news dump so important, we had to bring on Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle to join UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky. After that, Chergosky and Solem discussed partisan politics continuing to trickle into local races, what to do with Valley View Mall and how Ron Johnson DGAF.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Chris Haskell, chair of the Voter Services Committee for the League Women Voters of the La Crosse Area joined. We discussed a bit how partisanship has trickled down to local elections, which are deemed nonpartisan. We talked what the League does, not just with elections, but in general. Also discussed how to get informed on local races, the importance of taking part and some info on when and where to vote.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke joined. We discussed the Wisconsin state Legislature's reaction to the Waukeshau parade tragedy and bail bonds, the Minneapolis Police / Amir Locke killing, in regards to no-knock warrants, as well as a county police oversight board and the show 48 Hours looking at the Todd Kendhammer murder of his wife in West Salem.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joined. He explains the news of a citywide tax assessment and how that differs from an individual property owner assessment. Also hit on housing in La Crosse, childcare, and the government's potential role on those issues. Also spent quite a bit of time on the unsheltered situation in La Crosse, as the motel deal ends in 2 months.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. We discussed the billionaire battle between Amazon's Jeff Bezos — and his mega-yacht potentially destroying a historic Dutch bridge — and Facebook's Mark Zuckerberg, who might want to move to the Metaverse after he lost $31 billion in a day. We also talked some Foxconn news, as Wisconsin still waits for all the tech, it looks like there is some potential expansion into the food coloring business. Lastly, we discussed more news about the fake electors in Wisconsin casting ballots for Donald Trump in 2020.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lori Stern, the executive director of the MOSES Organic Farming Conference joined. We talked about the upcoming event at the La Crosse Center (Feb. 24-26) and then deep dove into some farming and food issues, like how four multinational meatpackers in the US control 54% of poultry processing, 66% of pork packing, and 85% of beef packing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Alex Lasry is one of about a dozen candidates running for US Senate in Wisconsin. He's also the Senior VP of the Milwaukee Bucks -- when he's not running. Had to ask him about the Bucks a bit, but then we did dive into a lot of the issues surrounding the Senate race, including healthcare, taxes, Citizens United and, of course, Ron Johnson.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Got some numbers on drug overdose deaths in La Crosse County. Tied that into a conversation with Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings passing some fentanyl legislation over the past week. One of those was increasing penalties for dealers, while a caller suggested we just end the war on drugs and legalize it all. Something that's being done with marijuana everywhere around here, but Wisconsin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse economics professor Adam Hoffer joined. Talked about the idea of Congress trading stocks and governing its own ability to trade stocks. Also hit on Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers plan to spend a budget surplus vs. the Republican plan, and hit on "inflation."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. We discussed the strange analogies from Kevin Nicholson, the newest candidate in the GOP governor's race — calling someone Scooby-Doo and another a "bag of hammers." Also hit on the Jan. 6 committee subpoenas for a couple of Republican cosplay officials who pretended to cast electoral votes for Donald Trump. Lastly, we hit on a semi dumping potatoes onto I-94.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle joined. We hit on a mess of topics the state Legislature is dealing with — from the very unimportant (dogs vs. cats allowed in stores) to actual issues (catalytic converter thefts). We also hit on Gov. Evers making it rain $150 checks to Wisconsinites and the fight over absentee ballot drop boxes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rebecca Rom, the National Chair of the Campaign to Save the Boundary Waters joined to talk about some breaking news from the US Dept. of the Interior. We also dug into the foreign billionaire's company that's trying to mine Minnesota's Boundary Waters. Took some calls and digested that news on the back half of the show.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
City of La Crosse Police Chief Shawn Kudron joined. Discussed the responsibility police might have if marijuana is legalized. Also hit on the recent drug bust with 11 pounds of meth, how traffic cams might help police and what happens to the gun after an arrest. Get all these shows by searching La Crosse Talk PM wherever you download podcasts or go to WIZMNews.com/podcasts
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked with the development group that's working on the old Kmart site in La Crosse at State Road and Losey Blvd. Brainstormed some ideas for the site, a new name for that area and what's going to happen to the Kmart building.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes joined the show, along with UW-La Crosse political science prof. Dr. Anthony Chergosky. Discussed an array of things, including the state Legislature being quite indecisive about whether Colby cheese should be the state cheese, while also passing other somewhat controversial legislation. Also asked Barnes about a CEO salary cap and his thoughts on Mitch McConnell's "he said the quiet thing out loud," on African-Americans voting just like Americans.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked with RepresentUs Connor Glassen about the redistricting process in Wisconsin and the gerrymandered maps. After that, Mark Neumann came on to announce he's running for Congress in the 3rd Congressional District. And, capped things off with La Crosse Democratic Party chair William Garcia on gerrymandering.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Megan Danaher is the new coach of Viterbo's newest sport, E-Sports. We dive into just about every aspect of e-sports and gaming. What her parents think of her new profession and what e-sports will look like at Viterbo.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Board chair Monica Kruse joined to discuss the meeting happening Thursday, where they will look at the definition of Lake Onalaska, a potential dog kennel expansion and how the county plans to allocate $22 million in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funding -- or Biden Bucks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Keith Knutson joined to discuss Martin Luther King, Jr., as Viterbo hosted a community celebration. We also discussed, toward the end of the podcast, some of the political battles happening in Wisconsin — including gerrymandering, as well as senate, congressional and governor races.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky in studio. The professor sort of dropped a bomb on if Tommy Thompson were the Republican nominee for governor. Also talked about potential penalties for Republican electors in Wisconsin, including La Crosse's GOP Party Chair, Bill Feehan, casting votes for Donald Trump for president. Was there a bigger conspiracy? And, perhaps most importantly, the story about grandma stealing grandson's brownies, taking them to the senior center and ... they weren't just brownies.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Peggy Wirtz-Olsen, President of the Wisconsin Education Association Council, joined the show to talk about the ongoing dilemma teachers are facing in Wisconsin, exasperated by the continuing COVID-19 pandemic that's shut down schools.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo history professor and computer guru there, Dr. Eric Weinberg, joined and we had a fun conversation about online gaming and that as a collegiate sport. After that, we discussed Viterbo hosting the MLK Day community celebration in La Crosse and what keynote speaker Dr. Sylvia Hood Washington could focus on. Also hit on the road situation in downtown La Crosse with 4-way stops and speed bumps.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pete Marra is a Georgetown biologist and author of Cat Wars: The Devastating Consequences of a Cuddly Killer. He discussed the proposal up for the La Crosse city council on saving feral cats. The city is looking to catch, vaccinate, fix and release feral cats back into the city, which Marra believes is wrong for a plethora of reasons.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started, again, with La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds on hometown stud Johnny Davis and the Badgers. Got into the city/county effort losing out on the perfect property for a Homeless HQ (though Reynolds didn't call it that). And, of course, another session of Cat Talk PM, as city wants to save feral cats.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, joined. Discussed the city's legislation on feral cats, Robin Vos turning over a new leaf for 2022 and Ron Johnson finally confirms he's running for his Senate seat, though he said he wouldn't.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Had some fun talking about a fifth grader in La Crosse taking over as principal for a day. Was hoping she could come up but I got stood up. Sarah Godllewski, however, did show and we talked about a bunch of things as it pertains to running for US Senate. That included the filibuster, healthcare, a $750 billion bloated military budget and, of course, the Jan. 6 insurrection and how some people pretend it was just your everyday tour of the Capitol.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Assembly Rep. Jill Billings joined for the hour, talking about everything from the north-south corridor and the year anniversary of drinking bottled water bc of PFAS on French Island to a partisan Wisconsin election investigation that's still going and Republicans dissolving another (semi-)nonpartisan group that oversees elections. Oh, and we did do Cat Talk PM for the third consecutive day!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As the city debates a plan to catch-and-release cats, after spay/neuter and vaccinating them, we talk with Coulee Region Humane Society executive director Heather Dreivold about it. The city ordinance change does not mention the word "feral," though that's what the change would be. Before that, a bit on La Crosse's Johnny Davis dropping 37 for the Badgers on No. 3 Purdue.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking about the evacuation of Central High School due to a bomb threat. After that, city council member Chris Woodard joined to explain a committee agenda item about re-releasing neighborhood cats back onto the streets, instead of keeping them for adoption and possibly being euthanized.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, joined to break down the best and worst local stories of 2021 -- from Trane Park opening to Biden's visit on the good side and a triple-homicide and an abduction downtown on the bad. We also got a really late, New Year's Eve, Friday news dump.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ranted a bit about political candidate texts and emails nonstop asking for donations. After that, WIZM's Brad Williams joined to talk about the 2021 political stories, including, instead of stopping for ice cream, how Joe Biden's La Crosse visit could have grabbed more headlines. After that, discussed some city projects that made news in 2021 -- La Crosse Center, Fish Labs and the north-south corridor.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After I mourned the loss of John Madden, brought on Dawn Wacek, who's been a librarian for 20 years and is the La Crosse Library's deputy director. We got into a banning books discussion and how the library handles things like that, as the Holmen Middle School is going through a conversation about banning a certain book. Before that, though, we talked about some of the more interesting books of 2021 and what ELSE the library does.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Education Association President and Central High Spanish teacher John Havlicek joined to talk about school threats, how students and teachers are coping a year after what was supposed to be the toughest year on schools, as well as some other issues — healthcare, teachers quitting, masks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cried a bit about not getting any GI Joes or Legos, again, for Christmas. Must be 30 years in a row. After that, Dr. Michael Dolan, executive vice president and in internal medicine at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, discussed a host of health topics, mainly centered around the dilemmas that COVID-19 creates. After that, a peculiar tweet from the CDC about health care in the US.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Did some Christmas movie rankings, and dived right into the political talk and school threat talk with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff joined. He's also running for Ron Kind's seat in the US House of Representatives for the 3rd District. We discussed issues like PFAS, healthcare, campaign finance among other things that he's dealing with as both a Senator and a Congressional candidate.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fire Chief Ken Gilliam joined. Talked a bit about what goes into a fire investigation, after someone was charged with arson this week after a house fire. Also got updates on where La Crosse is at with new fire stations, as well as some fire safety, after 7 were found dead in Moorhead, Minnesota, after being possibly exposed to carbon monoxide.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo biology professor and immunologist, Dr. Chris Mayne joined to talk all things COVID-19 -- from the new variant to vaccines to some of the myths people are hearing. Before that conversation began, however, we did discuss a funny story about how a professor offered students an easy $50 but nobody figured out how to get it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. We ranted about Congress easily passing a $768 billion military budget for 2022. After that, we got to the TikTok challenge of school threats and how the area has been inundated with them over the past two months.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Erin Waldhart with the WAFER Food Pantry in La Crosse joined to discuss just how the community has been impacted over the past year and a half and what kinds of things they offer to help. Before that, WIZM's Brad Williams discusses Rotary Lights damage — a conversation that continued later in the show.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kicked off the show with longtime meteorologist Todd Shea from the National Weather Service - La Crosse giving us an update on Wed. night's weather and how out of the ordinary it is. After that, talked a bit more about the weather, that Rotary Lights closed and also hit on the La Crosse Center open house and the guy that was arrested for setting a La Crosse home on fire -- which killed a dog -- and pointing a gun at someone.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Grace Schrope with Lake Superior Helicopters joined the show to talk about the helicopter rides coming Thursday-Sunday to Rotary Lights in downtown La Crosse. Also talked about Elon Musk as the Times Person of the Year in parallel to teachers in S.D. on display grabbing $1 in a dash for cash game for school supplies.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Longtime La Crosse Center director Art Fahey joined to break down the completion of the $42 million expansion/renovation in a bit of a preview to Wednesday's open house, where at least one big statewide guest will be present.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. We hit on some Christmas music, the movie Elf, and trying to cover politics down the middle, despite sometimes there being no middle. Ended talking about the idea of a WIZM studio built into the Fish Labs event center project at La Crosse's Riverside Park
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse Planetarium director Bob Allen joined in studio to talk about all things out of this world. A cube-like structure found on the moon, an asteroid buzzing the tower that is Earth, billionaires headed to space and more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Democracy Campaign's Matt Rothschild joined for a bit to talk about what's going on around the state, including election investigations. That conversation continued a bit afterward, along with some talk about another school threat in the area.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joined for the hour. Talked a bit about Badgers star Johnny Davis. We hit on the object a rover has seen on the horizon of the dark side of the moon. And we did discuss some city biz, like the roundabout project on the southside and the purchase of the $2 million Chamber building downtown.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, joined. Yes, we had a conversation about how even there, the Valley View Mall -- and malls in general -- might not succeed. Other things discussed included the school threats in La Crosse and beyond, the election investigation in Wisconsin and how Roe vs. Wade is used in politics, but Citizens United never seems to be.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Barn owl nests haven't been seen in Wisconsin in 22 years ... until a few months ago, when one was discovered in a La Crosse family's backyard up in a dead maple tree. International Owl Center executive director Karla Bloem joined to talk about getting that call and what happened after that. We also talked about big plans the Center in Houston, Minn., has coming up.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US Congressman Ron Kind talked about the infrastructure deals vs. the Pentagon budget, how PFAS are affecting La Crosse County residents and how politics have turned into one side hating the other. Kind is in his final term, after serving 13 years in the US House. After that, WIZM's Brad Williams joined to talk about the city-county plan to buy the Chamber building and turn it into a headquarters to help the un-sheltered.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Common Cause Wisconsin executive director Jay Heck joined to talk about all things redistricting and voting, as the Wisconsin Supreme Court has made a decision in the process of map-making for the next decade. Heck has been working with the nonpartisan group for the past 27 years.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked with Pat Stephens of Rotary Lights on how the Riverside Park holiday display kicked off its opening weekend and what it takes to put on such a thing for the past 27 years. Before that, Bill Soper, CEO of the La Crosse Area YMCA, joined to discuss the new 24-7 plan at the Y, as well as some major building updates in La Crosse and Onalaska.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. We ate some Festival fluff in honor of Thanksgiving, talked about how unproductive a day Black Friday is. We also discussed the new COVID-19 variant and wrapped up talking about how whatever the problem is in the US — the $1 store being the $1.25 store now, bc "inflation" and not corporate greed — just point to whoever's president.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking about a big study showing that Thanos couldn't have snapped his fingers with the glove he was wearing, in a movie that must be two years old. Peter Cameron with the Badger Project joined to discuss that, as well as rural broadband across Wisconsin, gerrymandering in the state and Thanksgiving foods.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Laura Gooden, archivist at the UW-L library and on La Crosse's Heritage Preservation Commission, joined to talk about the city's most endangered buildings, the ones it lost in 2021 and what the commission could do to save others on the upcoming 2022 list.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Retired criminal law attorney Pat Heim joined to discuss the finale of the Kyle Rittenhouse case and whether or not the state needs to make some changes to laws that surrounded it. Also discussed a similar case in Kenosha about a black girl, Chrystul Kizer, who did not get the same treatment as Rittenhouse. Finished up hitting on the three Georgia men on trial for what's often called a modern day lynching and the upcoming Ghislaine Maxwell case that involved Jeffery Epstein.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit a bit of everything with UW-L political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky, from editing anime videos where we kill co-workers and then get censured to moving homeless indoors in La Crosse. We also discussed politicians ignoring important, popular legislation which then dies without debate and, most importantly, what's Bri craving, 4 months into her pregnancy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Tim Dale joined for the first time ever. We hit just about every political spectrum and what or why we're driven to the left or the right. Also discussed voter turnout hitting 68% at UW-L in the 2020 presidential election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Schools superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel joined. We discussed the potential consolidation of high schools in the city and perhaps buying a new building. Also discussed the state report card that just came out and where La Crosse sits.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Council member Doug Happel breaks down the some of the details with the 2022 city of La Crosse budget. After that, because he's also on the Police and Fire Commission, we talk about La Crosse County's plan for some type of police oversight board.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Center Board president Brent Smith joined to talk about the completion of the $42 million expansion. We talk about what updates we'll see — like a new outdoor terrace — and what the new Center means for the city, the area.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. Among the discussion was a new baby on the way, what kind of pregnancy cravings are we seeing ... how many is too many mini candy bars, the 3rd Congressional District race and an idea proposed by Republicans US Sen. Ron Johnson in having the Wisconsin Legislature control its own elections.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mary Beyer joined the show. She's homeless and living in Houska Park in La Crosse. Spent most of the show discussing the situation with those who are unsheltered.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show ranting about Daylight Saving, before Viterbo biology professor and immunologist, Dr. Chris Mayne, talked some of the recent news in the COVID-19 pandemic, including 5-11-year-old vaccinations and getting a booster.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County board chair Monica Kruse joined to discuss them passing a study committee at looking into creating a police oversight board, as well as passing the 2022 budget.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joined. Started off listening to Rick rant about Aaron Rodgers. After that, got into city issues and spent a majority of the final half of the show discussing the homeless situation in La Crosse. Reynolds not happy with state government essentially ignoring the issue.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, in studio, to discuss the Build Back Better social infrastructure bill and how Democrats really don't do a great job promoting. Also hit on how we consume news, Joe Biden and the Wisconsin election investigation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Democracy Campaign's Matt Rothschild joined. We talked about buying politicians, continuing election investigations and ignoring citizens when it comes to how Wisconsin determines who represents them in office.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
She wants Ron Kind's seat in Congress. Rebecca Cooke joined, running for the 3rd Congressional District. Cooke's a small business owner, runs a nonprofit for women entrepreneurs and grew up on a Dairy Farm. If she were a Navy Seal, she'd have all the boxes checked. We talked about about healthcare, broadband, water, the Build Back Better plan in Congress now and her opponents, Democrats Brad Pfaff and Brett Knudsen, and Republican Derrick Van Orden.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke in studio. We talked about communities not charging and not even pulling people over for basic traffic violations. Also hit on where La Crosse County is at with a Police Board or oversight board. And we talked about the judge in the Rittenhouse case and some homicide cases coming up in the county.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Al Bliss, from Alliance to Heal, joined to talk about drugs, overdoses and deaths in La Crosse County and what they're doing to help bring those numbers down. After that, city council member Chris Woodard joined to talk about a big vote Tuesday on a $15 million plan for affordable apartments, including some dedicated to the unsheltered.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joins. Along with all things Halloween candy, we do talk about the terrible optics Democrats create around Biden's Build Back Better plan and how Congress removes things in the bill that they literally have as part of their job.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Fire Chief Ken Gilliam joined. Along with talking about best-worst Halloween candies, we did discuss things like electric fire trucks, the new speed bumps in front of the La Crosse Center and bringing the giant rig to call like a heart attack, as opposed to a fire.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
State Assembly Rep. Steve Doyle joined. Since he's a lawyer, we asked him about the Kyle Rittenhouse trial, and a judge ordering the people shot and killed can't be called "victims" but can be called "looters" and "rioters." Also talked about the Wisconsin election investigations and how bills move (or don't) through the state Legislature heading into an election year.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
All kinds of government agencies are "fishing" for invasive carp in the Mississippi River here in La Crosse this week. We talked with Randy Hines about that process and about working for the US Geological Survey over on French Island.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about consolidating into one high school in La Crosse. Would it save money in the long run? Is it worth ending an intra-city rivalry? Also discussed the John Deere strike, CEO pay vs. worker pay.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. Briefly discussed some streaming favorites and how crime shows are actually solving real world murders. After that, we talked about the 3rd Congressional District race and a final report that came out on what Wisconsin could do to improve elections.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked to Becky Rom, the national chair for the Save the Boundary Waters campaign, about the recent decision from the Biden Administration putting, at least, a temporary halt on copper-nickel mining upstream from Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area. Before that, discussed the haunted houses, walks going on in the city and we've solved the mystery on video of the Hatched Baby being vandalized.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The battle for power in Wisconsin, as the state argues over drawing political maps that are some of the most gerrymandered in the U.S. Common Cause Wisconsin's Jay Heck joins to discuss the process. He has been covering these fights for 26 years.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked with Tiffany Smith and Marty Wallesar of Hatchery, LLC, about their plans for the Fish Hatchery building on the north end of Riverside Park.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked a bit about Dan Bongino, who is on WIZM before La Crosse Talk PM, and his peculiar hypothetical about quitting his job due to his employer requiring the vaccine. That turned into a conversation about supply-chain issues and backlogs on the west coast, as well as talk about immigration at the southern border.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We discuss Spaceballs, President Scroob and the dystopian society they had where canned oxygen was needed to survive, which is now a reality in stores today. On Earth. Also, La County Democratic Party chair William Garcia talks with us about the Democratic equivalent to Wisconsin Republicans bringing in Ted Nugent to promote hunting sandhill cranes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about the lawsuit filed against the La Crosse Police Department on behalf of the Badger Project with Tom Kamenick, president of the Wisconsin Transparency Project. He's representing the news site. We also discussed why La Crosse Police haven't released the Hatched Baby vandalism video. Before that, Audra Martine, director of the La Crosse County Health Department, talked COVID, including whether Oktoberfest contributed to a jump in numbers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Comedian Charlie Berens joined and joked about La Crosse possibly getting the "Taj Mahal" of Kwik Trips. Also asked him about a couple other city and state issues, like the Fish Labs building in Riverside Park being converted into a wedding venue. We then talk to Kwik Trip about what's actually happening with the "Taj Mahal" KT. Around all that, discussed La Crosse Police being sued and Wisconsin Republicans holding hearings with Ted Nugent on hunting cranes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rookie La Crosse City Council member Mac Kiel and her 8-week old daughter Lilly joined. We talked about some of the bigger issues coming up for the council, including housing, the “get off my lawn” / “not in my neighborhood” mentality and how we spend the Biden Bucks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joined and hit on multiple topics from housing in the city, to spending the Biden Bucks. We talked Hatched Baby and some development projects in the city, as well.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, joined to discuss the 925 notable police calls from La Crosse's Oktoberfest, including the stealing of a light pole. We also broke down the multiple stories involving retired Wisconsin Supreme Court justice Michael Gableman's handling of the 2020 presidential election investigation. Other things that were covered: the jobs report, stripping the added $300 a week unemployment benefits, talking cash registers for lonely people and Chergosky makes a blanket statement on whether Senator Ron Johnson will run in 2022.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked with Arianna Cirincione, she's a vet and the Veterans Program Coordinator at Coulee Recovery Center in La Crosse. An event there at noon Saturday is meant to help Afghan War veterans. Part of the discussion was how Vietnam veterans may be crucial to helping Afghanistan veterans recover, after seeing the US pullout of that country that gets immediately overrun.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
She's a Democrat in a Legislature controlled by Republicans, Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings of La Crosse. Discussed how she tries to get bills passed in Madison as the minority party — but no, she's not bribing those on the other side of the aisle with gift cards. "That's illegal," she said.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about a slew of things, including a city council member's idea of just doing away with alternate-side parking in La Crosse. Talked about a slew of things, including a city council member's idea of just doing away with alternate-side parking in La Crosse. Also discussed some of the proposals going through committee, like the Fish Labs building in Riverside Park, as well as the new "speed bumps" in front of the La Crosse Center.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit a bit of everything today with La Crosse Education Foundation president John Havlicek, from the misconstruing of Critical Race Theory to fit the "outrage agenda" to the benefits of teaching foreign language to students beginning at an early age -- something the state isn't mandating, while it tries to make cursive teaching mandatory.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. We discussed the errors retired conservative Supreme Court judge Gableman has made looking into the 2020 Biden-Trump election. Also talked about Ron Johnson's taxes and, most importantly, we discussed how long you'd sit in a doctor's exam room before you thought they forgot about you.
La Crosse Talk PM with Rick Solem
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brett Knudsen is the only Democrat so far running to take Ron Kind's seat in the 3rd Congressional District of Wisconsin. We discussed issues with healthcare, broadband, immigration workforce and his likely opponent on the Republican side, Derrick Van Orden.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Steve Doyle, 94 District Assembly rep. here in the greater La Crosse area, joined to discuss cursive and civics classes mandates that just passed, banning critical race theory. We also discussed some legislation he's working on in helping kids get adopted, as well as the fight over redistricting in the state. After that, Coulee Recovery Center executive director Cheryl Hancock on the Turned Leaf Family Festival at Myrick Park on Saturday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin's Legislature sending a whole slew of bills through, including forcing schools to teach cursive, civics. Before we discussed that, however, Mayo's Dr. Jacob Erickson joined to preview an Oct. 9 symposium for parents and athletes revolving around youth sports and injury prevention.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff joined. We discussed his unique position of confirming Gov. Evers cabinet nominees, after he was part of that cabinet and "fired" by Republicans. Before that, we discussed a French Island "shooting" and Mayor Mitch Reynolds' drop-the-mic statement on Oktoberfest.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky joins. We discussed how partisan politics are so bad, even Wisconsin's DNR is in a right-vs.-left battle. Also talked about 80-year-old's in government — Breyer on the US SUpreme Court and Grassley in US Senate — and how that's probably not great for anybody. Along those lines, Senate candidate Sarah Godlewski, in Wisconsin, called on Breyer to retire. Oh, and there was also a Flordia man story.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Fire Chief Ken Gilliam joined. The discussion included whether the recently vandalized Hatched Baby should get inherited by the department, after it was vandalized outside the city's police station. Gilliam also talked about speed bumps on some streets between King and Cass, the situation with the city's new fire departments and how area volunteer FDs are run.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you do the crime, you better be able to pay ... the fine? La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke joined. One of the things discussed was how the person who vandalized Hatched Baby might have to pay. Later we talked how the system favors people who can better afford to do the crime (as opposed to doing the time, or paying the fine). We also talked about the discussion in the county about a Citizens Police Board, as well as where we're at with some murder cases and how technology has affected the system.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The homeless situation in La Crosse, as winter nears. Krista Coey from the Salvation Army of La Crosse joined to discuss what they're doing and a new collaboration that's about to open in the city to help those in need.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Erin Morcomb, the lead physician on Mayo's COVID-19 team for SW Wisconsin joined to talk all things virus. That included Monoclonal antibody treatments, long-hauler effects from contracting COVID, hospital capacity in La Crosse, and why we need not worry about long-term effects from the vaccine, despite it getting to the public so quickly.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined, we talked about 79-year-old Tommy Thompson needing surgery after a water-skiing accident, and his lovable style seems like something missed in the Republican Party. Also talked about the US Senate race candidates in Wisconsin, as well as the La Crosse County Clerk's take on another GOP investigation into the 2020 election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tommy Thompson is 79 and tore his bicep WATER SKIING? Oh boy. Talked about everything going on with the Fish Labs building in Riverside Park with Dan Trussoni from the Parks and Recs office.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
She was handing out piggy banks to La Crosse elementary students ... Sarah Godlewski, an Eau Claire native and the current Wisconsin state treasurer joined to talk about running for US Senate in Wisconsin. She's looking to take what's currently Ron Johnson's seat. We hit everything from Jeff Bezos and the billionaire club to politicians trading stocks while passing legislation that affects those stocks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gary Tyler tells his story of being wrongfully imprisoned at 17 years old for the murder of a white, 13-year-old boy during violent protests by whites against black students at a Louisiana High School. He talks about how he made the best of 41 years in prison and how the state fought over and over to keep him there.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent most of the show, of course, talking about someone stealing the face of La Crosse's Hatched Baby statue, which is located outside the city's police department.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A day after Joe Biden announced plans on vaccinating and testing the workforce to battle COVID-19, La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia joined to break it down, and answer questions.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You'll see the story on WIZMNews.com on The Badger Project managing editor Peter Cameron's story about how 200 police in Wisconsin were fired or let go, then rehired at another department/agency.
La Crosse Talk PM with Rick Solem
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Told some animal stories with Heather Drievold, executive director of the Coulee Region Humane Society. Some of the weirder animals that she's seen there. Also, some of the needs the group has right now, with over 200 animals in care — like events "Rounds for Rescues" and "Sip to Save."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It was the Democrats' turn to head to Fort McCoy and tour facility that now houses about 8,000 evacuees. Also talked about Labor Day and how a whole lot of people were working. Did they get double time or holiday pay?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We bring in UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky to break down why McDonald's ice cream machines are always breaking and how important it is the federal government is looking into that. We also talked some politics, because, well, political science professor.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Threw everything at Jared Flick with La Crosse's parks and rec., from Riverside Park updates (big boat docks, Eagle statue, Fish Hatchery building) to Trane Park to swimming pool season to Winter Rec. Fest. ...
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show with WIZM's Brad Williams, who was at North Woods Elementary today to watch Gov. Tony Evers shoot hoops with students. After that, talked about the event recognizing International Overdose Awareness Day and how to deal with addicts. Ended talking about Wisconsin taxpayers being on the hook for $676,000 for an election that happened 10 months ago.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A bid, a contract, a job hiring ... La Crosse city council member Doug Happel joined to discuss how the city goes about these things, in reference to Mayor Mitch Reynolds pulling an agenda item off Thursday's committee meeting to hire a PR firm. After that, La Crosse Schools superintendent, Aaron Engel, the night before the first day of school, in person for him for the first time here in the city.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking about rezoning a property near the La Crosse Y, that's not going to happen, it appears. Also brought up the dilemma at a grocery store while you're waiting in line and a new checkout opens up — who gets that spot? And spent most of the show talking about a Wisconsin school's ending free lunch for kids because of ridiculous reasons.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We bring in the expert, UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky to discuss the cow that was seen in a McDonald's drive-thru in Marshfield. We did also discuss the partisan delegations that headed to Ft. McCoy this week and whether public comment is useful for city government.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Fire Chief Ken Gilliam in studio. Started the show talking about how hotdogs are not so good for you, but he didn't want to take one side or the other. We did have a productive conversation after that, however, on some of the things that might happen if the area got hit with a forest fire — like what is happening in northern Minnesota. We also discussed some of the new fire buildings and how public comment sessions work leading up to decisions in the city.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What's La Crosse County doing with the Biden bucks and might it help Afghan refugees? La Crosse County Administrator Steve O'Malley joined. We talked the 2022 county budget, the $23 million Biden bucks the county has coming and how La Crosse might help Afghan refugees. Began the show talking about Republicans visiting Ft. McCoy, Ron Johnson pig shaming and how no Democrats from the La Crosse area were invited.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Chilean-billionare's company is trying to mine upstream of Minnesota's Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness. Becky Rom, National Chair of the campaign to Save the Boundary Waters joined to break everything down with that. Before her interview, however, Ambassador Gus Fimple opened the show talking about how the Italian government selected him to rep. the US at a food conference there. Fimple is the founder of Aris Global Imports here in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Education Association president John Havlicek joined. Over his 25 years in teaching, we talked about the evolution of cellphones in the classroom, and the idea of teaching kids Spanish early vs. in high school. We also discussed the district starting the year with masks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pretty good deal when you're fired but also still get a vote on your own severance package. Talked about that, along with the Jeopardy host, a rotating waterslide and Afghanistan with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo biology professor and immunologist, Dr. Chris Mayne joined to talk COVID-19, the vaccine and questions people are having as the pandemic continues into maybe now an epidemic.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County and Wisconsin farming, agriculture will soon be getting millions in COVID-19 relief funding. Talked to county board member Rick Cornforth about how the board plans to distribute what looks to be about $22 million. Also discussed with Wisconsin Farmers Union president, Darrin Von Ruden, some of the struggles and how that relief will be used in their industry.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Matt Rothschild, executive director of the Wisconsin Democracy Campaign joined. We discussed the state's multiple election investigations, along with a slew of other things, including campaign spending in the state, gerrymandering, and the origins to the phrase "Six ways from Sunday."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Cardinal, someone pretty high up in the Catholic Church in Rome, who headed the La Crosse Diocese, is on a ventilator due to COVID-19. This person has been outspoken about precautions surrounding the virus. Discussed the moral conundrum we face when these people are hospitalized. Also talked about getting rid of tickets for minor traffic violations as well as the situation in Afghanistan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo political science professor, Dr. Keith Knutson, joined. Put up with talking about some nonsense, before discussing Congressman Ron Kind's not seeking re-election, gerrymandering, the situation with pulling troops out of Afghanistan, and a few other things on a Friday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Finding the Holy Grail of plants, one that hasn't been seen in Wisconsin since 1958. Ryan O'Connor with the DNR joined, to tell us how he found it, what happens after that and how it was a note from his 6-year-old daughter that may have been the key to it all.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Covered a lot of interesting topics with La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke, including how crime has changed over the past couple years, the idea that jurors' names should or shouldn’t be made public, the hate-crime enhancer in a recent incident at Copeland Park, a citizens police oversight board and updates on the triple homicide in the county and the Todd Kendhammer murder appeal.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After nearly 25 years, Ron Kind (D-La Crosse) announced he's not seeking reelection to the US House. Political scientist Joe Heim and La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia both joined to discuss the impact that has for both Republicans and Democrats in the state and the House.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds joined, discussed flooding in the city and how to better relay problems like that to the public, the homeless situation in Houska Park, as well as where the city is at with a public market and the River Point District's future.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Duct taping unruly passengers on a flight and Lake Tahoe shuts down because too many squirrels have the bubonic plague. Covered a lot of ground Friday with UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky. The La Crosse Airport director chimed in on whether you can carry on duct tape. A Viterbo biology professor gave us the scoop on the bubonic plague. We also covered some Wisconsin politics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about the just-released "The Suicide Squad" movie with La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia. After that, we did talk some politics, including corporate campaign contributions in Wisconsin, the state's voter purge and the now deemed "hate crime" that happened at Copeland Park.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A cream puff and a vaccine? Is that the best incentive for getting vaccinated? Also discussed the fight against having wedding receptions or a bed and breakfast in Riverside Park — at a now vacant building there. And a bit more on pushback against police in schools, while city leaders have already agreed to it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Police in schools, a police oversight board, committee week in La Crosse ... city council member Doug Happel joined to talk about all that and more. We also discussed changing the rules to allow weapons at the La Crosse Center and a bit on the Verizon cell tower going up in Riverside Park.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The end of the eviction moratorium. What's that mean for the La Crosse area? Coulee Cap's Kim Cable joined to discuss that, as well as the homeless situation in La Crosse. They recently went and did a head count of homeless in the city.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky as an Olympic pole vaulter or sprinter is one of the many things we explored. We also talked about Robin Vos' downplaying the idea of another review of the election that took place eight months ago. Spent last segment talking about Wisconsin Republicans and Gov. Tony Evers doing a little bit of nothing in holding sessions that everyone knew wouldn't get done.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discussed the La Crosse County triple homicide, as the sheriff briefed media on how the arrests were made and how the murders on July 23 happened. In the middle of that, Wisconsin state Assembly Rep. Jill Billings joined to talk about a host of things, including fentanyl dealer penalties and the "politics" of Madison with the recent special session vs. ending $300 weekly unemployment bonuses.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Test riding an e-bike and eliminating all downtown La Crosse parking
Robbie Young on La Crosse's Bicycle-Pedestrian Advisory Committee stopped by and talked about of the city's plans in making La Crosse more "user" friendly. Also discussed the E-Bikes I test rode from Coulee Bicycle Co in Onalaska. And we did a bit of a deep dive on how one might transform a downtown if you simply removed on-street parking, which could be done in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started talking about the two suspects identified in the La Crosse County triple homicide. After that, Adam Lorentz, MTU Czar, joined to talk Joe Biden's visit — how stingy the secret service were, when it sounds like Biden's team wanted to have some fun — bus ridership and a new ranking system the city is using for future projects.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Should we end the $300 added benefits for the unemployed in Wisconsin? The GOP-controlled Legislature is going to try and end that, while Gov. Tony Evers holds a special session on education funding. Also discussed the triple-homicide that occurred in La Crosse County late last week, and if we, as a society, are becoming numb to these atrocities.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia joined today. We did talk about a very expensive grilled cheese sandwich, as well as the Goodyear blimp flying over Onalaska. Started the show discussing the triple homicide that happened overnight just north of West Salem and Garcia had a good explanation about hate crimes, stemming from the Copeland incident against a transgender girl.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit a bunch of topics with La Crosse Fire Chief Ken Gilliam, including the difficulties the fire dept. has with traffic circles (not roundabouts) on, for example, King Street. We also did a sidebar on how Mayor Mitch Reynolds is doing and what's the more difficult job, mayor of a city or Congressman. Started the show discussing share service planning with Holmen's fire dept. and ended with where La Crosse is at with new fire stations.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Riding high after Giannis Antetokounmpo carries the Milwaukee Bucks to their first NBA title in 50 years. Talked about the lovable character he is, including his Instagram Live video ordering 50 chicken nugs. Also discussed all the odd Olympic stories that basically go after women unfairly.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the midst of a dedication ceremony where La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds was speaking outside the fire department, a car accident. We asked him about that. About the Bucks. And, sure, why not some city stuff.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
City council member Mac Kiel joined. We discussed her District 7, which contains the old Kmart site, and what feedback she's getting for redeveloping that site. Also talked about the American Rescue Plan pumping $22 million into La Crosse — what should be done with that money. And the capital budget for the next five years.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about a host of topics with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, including a guy who cancelled his $28 million trip to fly with Jeff Bezos to space. Also, the Iowa man who had a huge cache of guns on a Chicago hotel window sill, overlooking Navy Pier, but he was actually there to propose to his girlfriend. Also discussed the ridiculous amount of money flowing through Wisconsin campaigns.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo University immunologist, Dr. Chris Mayne joined to discuss the COVID, how he's become increasingly more popular since the onset of the virus and how he handles questions pertaining to it, which we watched him do on this show. Then we talked Bucks basketball.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin Democratic Party chair Ben Wikler joined La Crosse Talk PM to discuss the child tax credit, how it will help Wisconsin families and how Republicans wanted no part of it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When the shelter gets a call from someone they can't take care of their cats ... and then you discover it's 50 cats. That's what the La Crescent Animal Shelter is dealing with right now. We talked with Diane Foerster about it. After, Ben Wikler, the Democratic Party Chair of Wisconsin joined to talk child tax credits and the hipocracy of Ron Johnson being against those but for tax cuts on himself back in 2017.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Re-hashed some of the environmental stories from the past week, including the pipeline portal to hell swirling in the Gulf of Mexico, relating that to Enbridge's Line 5 plan to build a oil pipeline tunnel under the Great Lakes -- and another Enbridge line 3 leak in Minnesota. After that, hit on a bunch of whacky topics from a crazy Wisconsin judge to an odd Minnesota lawmaker ignoring some simple laws, then claiming racial profiling.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Car shows: Great for reminiscing but getting out of hand with the 1980s "classics," like your Chrysler LeBaron. Aside from the tangent on old cars, we did discuss the La Crosse River Marsh with "Friends of the Marsh" board president Chuck Lee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
They spelled PLOVER wrong on the water tower. It's the second consecutive Friday of water tower talk with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky. We also discussed the Joe Biden visit, the Republican version of the Wisconsin budget and why some Democrats signed onto it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Since Joe Biden didn't talk about bicycle infrastructure on his trip to La Crosse, we decided to with Robbie Young, owner of Coulee Bicycle Company on Main Street in Onalaska. Discussed e-bikes quite a bit, biking rules on the trails and how, perhaps, downtown should be better utilized for people, not cars.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
No Joe Biden on La Crosse Talk PM, but we did have Police Chief Shawn Kudron for the hour, as well as Mayor Mitch Reynolds. Obviously spent most of the show talking about Biden's visit to the city, but also discussed the murder in Houska Park that happened overnight, as well as where the La Crosse PD is at with some of the police reform bills that went through the state legislature.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
US Congressman Ron Kind of La Crosse joined, talking about the Joe Biden visit to La Crosse. Not a ton of new info, however, on when and where he'll be. Did tell him to get a Happy Gilmore-sized check from Biden for La Crosse Police security detail.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. We talked the brewing controversy of Dan Bongino, now on WIZM in the Rush spot, blocking Chergosky on Twitter. We also discussed, or tried to dissect, just what Sen. Ron Johnson is, or is doing. And, lastly. the cramming for the big test that Wisconsin's state Legislature is currently doing, passing a flurry of bills.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's a question, we've all wondered: Does a fire chief automatically take over the grill at a cookout? La Crosse Fire Chief Ken Gilliam was put on the spot with that one. We also talked about fire station plans in the city with building costs being so high. And there was a bit of Fourth of July fireworks safety mixed in there.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Housing market is crazy right now. Real estate agent Ben Bockenhauer with Gerrard Hoeschler Realtors joined to discuss what is going on. We also asked him if he's sold any of those Shopkos yet. At least one?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked mostly education but worked in some minimum wage talk with La Crosse Education Association President John Havlicek. Funding K-12 schools at the state level, Critical Race Theory and a minimum wage conversation that turned into teachers' starting pay at $70k, just some of the things we talked about.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After a bit of state budget talk, we got serious (#Sarcasm) with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky discussing how cities should be selling out to big corporations for updating their artwork, like La Crosse's Eagle statue at Riverside Park and Rochester's expensive fix for the corn on the cob water tower.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent most of the show talking about the stupidity of health care in the U.S. Obamacare was "saved." But it seems like we have a long way to go before health care is fixed ... universally, for everyone.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Had some fun talking with Mya Curtis and Shy Jackson as we get set to celebrate Juneteenth this weekend in La Crosse at Riverside Park. The two are founders of Hope Restores in La Crosse, which does a lot of great things for the community. And when asked if white guy Rick should feel comfortable coming to Juneteenth or volunteering at Hope Restores, they had a pretty great answer!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit a lot of topics, all on dogs, with the Dvoraks from the Monroe County Dog Shelter. From their weirdest calls to Adam's dog rescue boot camp, which is coming soon. Before that, however, talked a bit about photography, and how I was so proud of my Airfest pics until I saw Aperture by Steve Davis' post on Facebook.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How many corndogs would your kid eat if he was at the Kwik Trip daycare, which included a "Hot Spot" bar? Talked mostly about how things like childcare and healthcare being lumped into our jobs is kind of burden on both the employer and the worker. A story recently about Kwik Trip having daycare is great news for those at Kwik Trip but not great news if you still have a child and want to leave Kwik Trip.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We always save the toughest debates for UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky. This episode, we discuss the BK vs. Chick-Fil-A chicken sandwich wars, which La Crosse can't participate in, having only half the equation. Plus, those restaurants are owned by the same parent company. We also discuss fried chicken. Oh, and some Wisconsin state politics and how the phrase Critical Race Theory is just thrown around now, despite nobody knowing what it is.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The pilot of the military's newest toy, the F-35 Lightning II, joins in studio. Major Kristin Wolfe talks about taking selfies while pulling 7 Gs and if Top Gun is a terrible depiction of pilots. After that, Airfest announcer Phil Dacy and Dave Larsen talk about the rest of the air show.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A whirlwind of news out of Madison today, we cover to start, before bringing on a couple people to talk about gerrymandering, the stupidest name for rigging legislative maps. Peter Cameron from the Badger Project joined, followed by UW-Madison political science professor Ryan Owens, who mentioned he has three golden retrievers, and we did provide some advice for him at the show's end.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
First, had to vent about the Milwaukee Bucks, down by as many as 49 points ... in a playoff game. After that, Airfest's Dave Larsen joined to break down what to expect from this weekend's shows. After that, we had some fun with earlier conversations about bringing in a Popeyes Chicken and if Costco were to come to the area.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds stopped by to break down the Bucks-Nets series and pickup basketball. We also did talk city stuff, like temporary speed bumps and getting a Popeyes Chicken downtown.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UFOs in the sky, UFOs in the theaters again, as we can feel good about going back to the movies. La Crosse County Democratic Party Chair William Garcia joined to talk some nonsense and some politics, including Wisconsin Republicans vs. Evers and a bit of Donald Trump vs. Facebook news.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discussed Verizon wanting to put a 30-foot cellphone tower in Riverside Park, which we don't really want versus a developer wanting to put a 16-unit apartment complex on King Street, which neighbors in the area don't really want. Also talked with WIZM's Brad Williams about the Moon Tunes opener.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Vented about broken appliances and needing a permanent three-day weekend, before La Crosse County DA Tim Gruenke joined to explain those 16 voters in the city that registered from a UPS store.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Running against Ron Kind, the difference between running for Congress and City Council, Dr. Mark Neumann joined. We discussed a little bit of everything from those races to health care to COVID to a pig farm trying to expand just south of La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We bring in the political expert to talk about a scenario in which you steal your friend's car for a weekend. UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, also discusses the Wisconsin state Legislature's week of rejection.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Fire Chief Ken Gilliam on all things fire ... and duck related. The fire department did rescue some ducks in a storm drain recently. Also discussed building new stations, possibly at the old Kmart site, shared services with surrounding departments and how the city basically uses the game Sim City to model their coverage area.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A few weeks ago, an emu (an ostrich) got loose in West Salem. Cody Ratkovich, a La Crosse County Sheriff's Deputy was first to the scene. He joined to talk about the viral videos of him wrangling this thing to the ground, how he was getting married two days later and what the guys in the office have now nicknamed him. After that, we talk developing the old Kmart site.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County DA Tim Gruenke on a citizens' police oversight board, soliciting prostitution citations and the Todd Kendhammer murder appeal.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We covered a host of topics with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, including Republicans getting set to skip out on their fourth special session called by Gov. Tony Evers in about the past year -- this one on accepting federal money to expand Badger Care. Also discussed the GOP voting against Wisconsin Capitol police officers getting bodycams and $300 a week federal unemployment.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you're vaccinated, you don't have to wear a mask. But who's going to wear one if they're not vaccinated? Why aren't you vaccinated? Meghan Buechel, infection preventionist at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse, talked masks, vaccines for a little bit. More questions came afterward.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked ticks, bees, cicadas ... we talked bugs with Viterbo University biology chair, entomologist, Dr. Ted Wilson. What happens after the tick falls off your dog? What are these things living underground for 17 years and are starting to emerge now? And what can you do to help the pollinators?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked with La Crosse Parks and Rec's Jared Flick about everything from the transient dock at Riverside Park to the pools getting set to open, as well as Trane All-Abilities Park nearly ready for its grand opening.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick, back after a week off, talks about road tripping, automated cars and Cleveland. Yeah, Cleveland. They've got a pretty sweet Public Market, something La Crosse is looking to do. But, to get there, driving a car that basically does everything for you, was different.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Always important to discuss when West Salem police bring down an emu (just call it an ostrich) with UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky. Also discussed was the Wisconsin state budget battle between Gov. Tony Evers and Republicans, who control the Legislature.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two guests, two interesting interviews. First we talked with International Owl Center executive director Karla Bloem ... not so much about owls, but about some, essentially, ATV trails that could go up in Houston, Minn., that might be fun for some, but no good for people and animals that live in the area. After that, Wisconsin state Sen. Brad Pfaff joined to talk about how the GOP-controlled Legislature just axed Gov. Evers budget, what he in the minority can do. We also discussed the PFAS situation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Mitch Reynolds debuts. We discussed Aaron Rodgers, banning weapons at the La Crosse Center and how important the new mayor sees the River Point district, as well as other vacant areas in La Crosse that could be business and housing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bring up the vaccine, and people tend to call in about why they're not taking the vaccine. Speaking of that, also discussed La Crosse priest James Altman and his COVID-19 denial.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked quick about this 240-pound sturgeon caught in the Detroit River, before jumping around with La Crosse City Council president Barb Janssen on all the committee hearings this week.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. We discussed the gun show no longer coming to La Crosse, and the idea of having city-wide internet among other things.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After talking for a few about the fact that Aaron Rodgers wants out of Green Bay, U.S. Congressman Ron Kind discussed the story of a business in La Crosse being called out for its advertising practices -- a business that rents from Ron Kind. Also discussed when Kind is going to start drafting legislation for universal healthcare.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia joined. We ended up talking gun safety, minimum wage, education funding and gerrymandering ... a breakdown of the first four episodes of The Democratic Voice podcast, which can be found at WIZMnews.com or wherever you get podcasts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Back after a week off, Rick talks a bit about Ron Johnson's comments on getting vaccinated, and vaccinations in general. Also talked a bit about Gerrymandering.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked bikes and vaccines ... but not at the same time. Had Robbie Young, owner of Coulee Bicycle Company on Main Street in Onalaska on to talk about the bike share program, as well as other projects La Crosse has in the works for bicyclists. After that, Viterbo immunologist Dr. Chris Mayne joined to talk about the COVID vaccine.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Outgoing La Crosse city council president Martin Gaul breaks down what happens next week with swearing in the mayor and new council, where a near-majority will be rookies.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Covered quite a bit today, highlighted by Carolyn Dvorak joining to talk about the bike share program you might have seen throughout the downtown La Crosse area. Also talked about the Twin Cities-area police accidentally shooting someone, instead of using a taser. Started the show talking about how odd it is to get a "REAL ID."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We're only 579 days 'til 2022 elections. UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined to talk about campaigns already starting for November of 2022. Also talked about the La Crosse's mayor's race and how low voter turnout was despite half the city council and a brand new mayor being on the ballot.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked with Heritage Preservation Commission commissioner Laura Godden — AKA Commissioner Godden — about preserving and losing some of La Crosse's historic buildings. The commission has a Top 10 Endangered Buildings list, but there needs to be more lists. Top 10 best historic buildings, Top 10 buildings already lost. We also touched on some buildings that could be considered historic — like the La Crosse Center and City Hall.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mitch Reynolds joined a day after winning the city of La Crosse mayor's race. We talked some nonsense and some 'shop.' Also, city council member Andrea Richmond came on to discuss bringing in six new members, as well as who might be the council president -- replacing Martin Gaul.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Grilled La Crosse Parks and Rec. sports czar Jared Flick on everything from re-opening the city's pools to a boat dock at Riverside Park to new tennis and volleyball courts in the city.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tim Kabat's last show as mayor. We talked about Hatched Baby's anniversary, the weirdest things he's had to do as mayor, and he -- as he always has -- took a disgruntled call, this one on the PFAS situation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about my April Fool's gag from Thursday with UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky, and the idea that maybe we should play 80s-90s Rush Limbaugh classics instead of some new host. Also discussed the burning-mask rally and voter suppression laws based on the notion of voter fraud pushed by Republicans, when there was no mass voter fraud.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show with a big announcement, Rick Solem's run on La Crosse Talk PM is over. He, along with La Crosse County Democratic Party Chair William Garcia, will be taking over Rush Limbaugh's time slot on WIZM. Aside from that news, Mayoral Candidate Vicki Markussen joined to talk about wrapping up her campaign.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mitch Reynolds joined, talked about how the Lincoln Middle Schoolers ran the candidates through the ringer earlier in the day. Also broke down some of his campaign finance numbers that came out earlier.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit a ton of things today, including being on the treadmill at the Y the past couple days and seeing Fox News on one TV and CNN on the other ... and in between that HLN coverage of the Derek Chauvin murder trial. Plus, sounds like there are vaccines available in La Crosse for those who can get them. Also talked about the $1 million one state schools superintendent candidate has in campaign cash. Lastly, hit on the idea of a per-mile gas tax and our elected officials hiding Facebook comments that they don't agree with -- is that legal?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Shared a story about coming across a couple of pups on Highway 16 in Houston County in the middle of the night, and a little bit of frustration on the lack of ability from the County Sheriff's office to provide much help. After that, ranted about the Booze-to-go bill that's a year late and the PDF-happy city council committee agenda.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We discuss Peep flavored soda with UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky. We also talked some politics. And the Blue Angels coming to La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Blue Angels are flying into La Crosse on Friday morning, as WIZM's Brad Williams joined to talk about the Deke Slayton Airfest being back. Talked about Onalaska native Matt Thomas being traded to the best team in the NBA. And Fire Chief Ken Gilliam joined to talk PFAS on French Island, as well as changing plans for building new fire stations.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A good mix of fun and informative conversation with La Crosse mayoral candidate Vicki Markussen. Did have someone message in a video of her walking on a lawn. The scandal of this decade. Lots of calls on bumpouts, City Hall, Hiawatha and police.
La Crosse Talk PM with Rick Solem
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse mayoral candidates Mitch Reynolds and Vicki Markussen are questioned by the WIZM news staff as we lead up to the April 6 election. UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky moderates the hour-long live debate.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Joe Heim joined to help break down some of the things the GOP-controlled state legislature is doing when it comes to drinks-to-go and voter suppression. We also talk about how the La Crosse mayoral race is going, as WIZM hosts a debate
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A year later, coming out of a pandemic, where perhaps a lot of us — Rick included — sat around, we bring on some experts to talk us through what to do now. From rec sport athletes or those trying to get back into things like running, Dr. Jake Erickson, the sports doc, and personal trainer Amy Venner (RealWellnessWithAmy.com) give advice on how to get back into the swing of sports.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent a lot of time talking PFAS mess in La Crosse with UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky, but did have to make fun of Joe Biden tripping on the Air Force One steps. Mayor Tim Kabat called in to talk about a breaking story in reference to the PFAS mess in the area, and some internal emails that were made public that don't paint what the city is doing in a great light.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Defund the police? See, that gets your attention. That's one of the things we talked with La Crosse mayoral candidate Mitch Reynolds about. We also talked La Crosse native Jonathan Davis and the Badgers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Rush Limbaugh resolution meant to divide and a "cocktails-to-go" bill that's literally a year too late. These are a couple items Wisconsin's state Legislature is working on, after going almost 10 months without even debating, let alone passing a single piece of legislation, as the state -- the world -- endured the worst of the pandemic.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse teachers' union president and long-time Central High Spanish teacher John Havlicek joined. Yes, we did talk Celtics but also the emotion of those first days back in school, the difficulties from online learning and the relationships teachers and students build that sort of took a year off -- in a way. But the show started with La Crosse County Democratic Party chair William Garcia with an announcement about the city's mayoral race.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Cancel culture at it again, the board of public works moves to cancel bills people were charged for not shoveling their city sidewalks. We went from Mr. Potato Head and Dr. Suess to watch porn to shoveling La Crosse sidewalks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse polysci prof. Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. Talked about everything from a Hatched Baby (big blue baby) situation going up in Stevens Point to the one-year anniversary of the great toilet paper shortage in the US to groups endorsing La Crosse mayoral candidates and whether that's a good thing or not.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Opened with a story from PdC Lt. Timothy Deluhery Jr., about a unique rescue they performed last Saturday on the Mississippi River. After that, talked with Keonte Turner about his experience with racism, what we should do, after a pair of racist incidents happened to a Viterbo student.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse mayoral candidate Vicki Markussen joined. Spent a lot of the show talking about social media — such as the Steve O'Malley situation — media attention — as WIZM hosts a debate March 23 with her and Mitch Reynolds — and how the candidates are utilizing their own accounts to get their positions out there. Also hit on a north-south corridor and some county vs. city taxes from a caller.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Had 95.7 The Rock's Jean Taylor and Hunger Task Force of La Crosse's Shelly Fortner on to talk about the .01-kilometer charity "race" happening Saturday from 4-6 p.m. at Riverside Park. Sort of the perfect length for everyone coming out of a very lazy pandemic. Started the show talking about the weird motorized unicycle I saw cruising down 2nd Street. After that, talked about how we should be blowing our stimulus checks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked a lot about the PFAS situation on French Island, as the city has some lawsuits out now on those forever chemicals. Also broke down some ideas around a public market in La Crosse and where that would best fit. Lastly, did bring up the Steve O'Malley situation in regards to policing everyone's social media activity.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky joins as we talk (Mr.) Potato Head, Dr. Suess, Star Trek vs. Star wars and actually some politics — Ron Johnson, the $1.9 trillion relief package, Foxconn and U-haul finding a new home, after bailing on the old La Crosse K-Mart plan.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse mayoral candidate Mitch Reynolds joined, talked some shop — literally — as well as some of the issues that city of La Crosse is going through right now, including the PFAS situation and businesses coming (or not coming) to the city.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about the city's snow czar and La Crosse County administrator Steve O'Malley -- again. We did brainstorm a couple punishments for O'Malley, after his Facebook comment. Also, should we not let the public go and shovel the sidewalks that are still snowy 24 hours after a storm and collect the $75 fee, plus $2.50 a foot? That would solve the problem really quick.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discussed the La Crosse County Board holding an ethics meeting on County Administrator Steve O'Malley's Facebook comment about Rush Limbaugh. Also talked about how Target made more money last quarter than it has in the past 11 years combined.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This is the week citizens should speak up or speak out about what the La Crosse city government has on its agendas. Alternate side parking, snow code violations, rezoning for an apt. building, residential parking zones and the Outdoor Cafe program all on Tuesday's agenda. Council member Gary Padesky calls in to help preview some of Tuesday's J&A meeting.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked a bit with UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky about a lawsuit field against La Crosse County Republican Party chair Bill Feehan having to do with casting fake elector votes for Donald Trump. Also discussed US Congressman Ron Kind potentially running for Ron Johnson's Wisconsin Senate seat in 2022. Lastly, hit on the $15 min. wage getting axed from the $1.9 trillion disaster relief bill thanks to the "Parliamentarian," which nobody has ever heard of until this week.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked with UW-La Crosse political science professor Anthony Chergosky about the Wisconsin state Legislature passing TWO bills in the past two days, after going 10 months with no bills. Spent most of the show talking about the La Crosse County administrator's comments on Facebook about Rush Limbaugh.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking about some weird stories out of Texas. After that, Vicki Markussen joined to talk about her run for La Crosse mayor and took some calls, as well.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mitch Reynolds joins after getting through the La Crosse mayoral primary. We discuss some of his priorities and take some calls -- including regular Eric from Sparta with a whacky call.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Well, the show ended in a flurry with both Mayor Tim Kabat and Fire Chief Ken Gilliam to call in, after a listener calls in with some misinformation. Talked mostly about the mayor's race, but also about Central High changing its mascot to River Hawks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The La Crosse mayor primary: Voting, campaign finance numbers, absentee numbers with city clerk Nikki Elsen. Before that, WIZM's Brad Williams talked the 10-year anniversary of Act 10 and Scott Walker getting his car rocked by La Crosse protesters (something that's been disputed).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A competency test for elected officials. And, perhaps, an age limit. Drug tests? We discussed that with UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky, as well as the hypocrisy of political parties holding power and never doing anything to balance things out when they could be the better "side." Also, Chergosky explains how the impeachment of Donald Trump isn't a "trial," though we call it a trial with jurors. It is far from it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
First talked with Jessica Olson, who is running for mayor. Most of that discussion was about the homeless. After that, Joella Striebel, chair of the Criminal Justice Management Council subcommittee looking at a citizens police oversight.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Martin Gaul joined to discuss why he's running for mayor of La Crosse. We also talked about the one candidate of the 10 bombarding the media with campaign stop notices and political gimmicks. Also, No. 3 called with a terrible idea for homeless.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We discussed, Tuesday, mostly things vaccine related on La Crosse Talk PM. La Crosse County health educator Rachel King joined to talk about that shortage we’re seeing locally, who and when will certain groups be eligible for the vaccine and some other random questions.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayor Tim Kabat joined to discuss the 10 people running to replace him, as the primary is near (Feb. 16). We also talked about the "simple" idea of how you get property taxes in the city down to $1,500 a year, as well as redoing 20th Street with the bricks instead of a traditional road. But, we began the show with 43-year-old Tom Brady talk.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit on a lot of different topics with UW-La Crosse political science professor Anthony Chergosky and former WIZM host Mitch Reynolds, who's running for mayor. From the state Legislature to political stunts to getting elected.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Briefly discussed masks, then candidate Zebulon Kemp joined to talk why he's running for mayor. After that, just broke down that conversation, including the best way to deal with La Crosse parking
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The 18-year-old mayoral candidate proposed donating $30k of his salary to charity. Talked about that a bit, including with La Crosse Fire Chief Ken Gilliam. With him, though we also discussed the downtown fire and how serious it could have gotten. Also discussed regional coop and building new fire stations.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ten candidates are running for mayor of La Crosse. WIZM split the field into two. This is the second of those debates.
They can be viewed at WIZMNews.com/debates
DEBATE 2 CANDIDATES: Tuesday’s debate will include Martin Gaul, Zebulan Kemp, Joe Konradt, Vicki Markussen, and Samuel Schneider.
DEBATE 1 CANDIDATES: Katherine Blanchard, Jessica Olson, Mitch Reynolds, Chris Stolpa and Greg Saliaras.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In-person, absentee voting began in La Crosse today. Talked about how ridiculously low voter turnout is in the city but, before that, we had Katherine Blanchard on to talk about why she's running for mayor.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In-person, absentee voting in the city of La Crosse begins Tuesday (Feb. 2). Interim City Clerk Nikki Elson joined to talk about some past elections, voter turnout, what people need to do to vote, vote absentee.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ten candidates are running for mayor of La Crosse. WIZM split the field into two. This is the first of those debates. The second runs at 6 p.m.Feb. 2.
They can be watched at WIZMNews.com/debates
DEBATE 1 CANDIDATES: Katherine Blanchard, Jessica Olson, Mitch Reynolds, Chris Stolpa and Greg Saliaras.
DEBATE 2 CANDIDATES: Tuesday’s debate will include Martin Gaul, Zebulan Kemp, Joe Konradt, Vicki Markussen, and Samuel Schneider.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined to discuss the upcoming debates between La Crosse's 10 mayoral candidates. After that, we talked about Rob Vos taking credit for Wisconsin having a $1 billion rainy day fund and trying to blame Gov. Tony Evers vs. giving any amount of credit.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show on the oversight by Republican Assembly Speaker Robin Vos being oblivious to the fact that repealing the mask mandate would cost Wisconsin $50 million a month in federal funding. After that, candidate Joe Konradt joined to try and set himself apart from the other 10 running for mayor of La Crosse. And, lastly, Adam Stiver, a finance professor at UW-La Crosse, and I talked about buying some GameStop stock.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With students headed back to the classrooms, theorized the idea that snow days could be gone forever, since we have virtual learning as a backup. The La Crosse School District did chime in. After that, discussed the 9-month, 11-day anniversary of our GOP-led Wisconsin legislature not passing a single bill during a global pandemic.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked with Doug Happel, city council member in District 12, who is running to retain that seat against Keonte Turner. We discussed taxes in La Crosse, as well as a external police oversight committee. After that, former UW-L political science prof. Joe Heim joined and also talked some taxes and the full-time Wisconsin state Legislature, which hasn't passed a bill of any type since April 16.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After ranting about the Packers — and Packer conspiracy theorists — we mostly discussed the upcoming debate WIZM will have with the 10 candidates running to be La Crosse's next mayor.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking, as usual, nonsense on a Friday with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky. We did then get into some political talk both at the federal and state level, along with a little "politicians on social media" discussion. Nationally, the Senate may end the filibuster. In Wisconsin, it's officially been 9 months, 6 days since the state government last passed a bill.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Had a both informative and entertaining talk on vaccines with Viterbo immunologist Chris Mayne. We talked everything from the virus variant to why we're vaccinating mink farmers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit on just about everything with Assembly state Rep., Democrat Steve Doyle of the Greater La Crosse County area (otherwise known as the 94th District). From his hobby farm, his golden retriever puppies to all the things Wisconsin's state government is not doing thanks to Republicans. Not meeting in session on unemployment. Not passing COVID legislation. It's been just over nine months since the GOP-led state Legislature has passed a bill of ANY KIND.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A 10-point plan on updating downtown La Crosse parking ramps, as well as expanding pay-to-park zones around the universities and hospitals in the city. We break down those plans and then Rick offers his solution.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Schools superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel, joined to talk about the plan that begins Wed. getting students back into the classrooms. And while that's a phasing-in plan, the district is also phasing out police in schools, which was discussed the second half of the show.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's the nine-month-and-one-day anniversary of Wisconsin's state Legislature passing a bill of ANY KIND. UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky has the solution to ending that streak: Legalize "Cocktails to go," or as Rick calls it, "The Roadie Bill."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
William Garcia has been on the job as the La Crosse County Democratic Party for two weeks. We talked a little about his background, took some calls and discussed politics, of course. The group is also hosting a forum of the state's school superintendent candidates on Tuesday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kicked off the show with the biggest news of the day — James Harden traded to the Nets. How is that going to make it tougher, or easier on the Bucks. Oh, and Trump got impeached. After that, "the 18-year-old" candidate for mayor, Samuel Schneider. After that, Dr. Richard Kyte at Viterbo talking about the university's Monday celebration of Martin Luther King Jr. Day.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rookie state Sen. Brad Pfaff joined the second half of the show to talk about some of his priorities. Before that, we discussed how it's been nine months since any legislation has been signed in Wisconsin. How cabinet positions are still unconfirmed two years into Gov. Tony Evers run. And how funny it is to add "you piece of (bleep)" to the end of Star Wars quotes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat on what happened Wed. at the US Capitol, some city issues and his thoughts on the 10 candidates who are trying to replace him.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political scientist Anthony Chergosky joins for a Capitol Riot Friday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rep. Jill Billings of La Crosse joined to discuss the legislation -- or lack thereof -- on the COVID-19 package trying to pass in Wisconsin. Before that, we did not talk about the DC riots.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked with Congressman Ron Kind, who was their when protesters stormed the House Chambers. Pretty crazy what he said he did. UW-La Crosse Political Science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined the show to try and dissect everything that happened. But, we began with WIZM's Brad Williams totally fed up with Rick's antics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An officer helps out someone in need. La Crosse Police Capt. Jason Melby joins to talk about that. But, kicked off the show with a high school sports memory that's pretty funny. Ended with talk about the COVID-19 package the state legislature isn't going to get signed by Gov. Tony Evers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Dueling pianos of Wisconsin's state Legislature
State Rep. Steve Doyle of Onalaska joined to talk about the fight over passing legislation in Wisconsin, which hasn't happened since April 14. After, we break down some of the proposals by the Ds and Rs in government.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A little recap on what a weird 2020, even in the La Crosse area. UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined to break down some of the stories to kick off the New Year.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
By the end of the show, came up with a conspiracy on why Wisconsin's state government has quit fighting about actual legislation, actual government work, and just taken the fight to whether or not to wear a mask in the chamber. Legislature still hasn't met since mid-April.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
She's one of seven candidates, so far, running for La Crosse mayor. Vicki Markussen joined in the first half hour. After that, we discussed a proposal up for vote next week to change alternate-side parking rules.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brought in the weather expert Cathy Zapotocny with the National Weather Service of La Crosse to talk the impending blizzards, and "frost quakes." After, we talked about alternate-side parking, plowing vs. salting the roads and some mayor vs. city council election talk.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Again, we bring on the political science expert at UW-La Crosse, Dr. Anthony Chergosky to break down Christmas, Christmas movies, a little politics and other nonsense.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
HAPPY FESTIVUS! IS DEC. 23 THE TOP 10 MOST UNPRODUCTIVE DAY OF YEAR?
Aired some grievances on this Festivus. Made fun of the 18-year-old mayoral candidate. Got some breaking news that a seventh candidate for La Crosse Mayor is officially on the list. Talked about the average time someone starts drinking on Christmas. And we aired more grievances on Congress getting the vaccine before the elderly.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We brought in Stu Ireland from the National Weather Service of La Crosse to break down a bunch of things meteorologist, including WEATHER or not there will be snow soon, forcing back the alternate-side parking rules.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking about who's running for mayor, before bringing candidate Chris Stolpa on. After that, Congressman Ron Kind called in to talk about the trillions of dollars about to be signed off on and whether or not he got the vaccine.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We bring on Hollywood expert, UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky, to break down how all our action movie stars are senior citizens. We also talked about politics — like Wisconsin Sen. Ron Johnson voting against $1,200 direct payments to Americans.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
No favorite songs. No favorite movies (except for suggesting A Christmas Story be on a tops list). All La Crosse Fire Chief Ken Gilliam could give us was stuff about the fire department, and a shout out to his wife for doing everything Christmas for the family.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He was the host of this show for, apparently, longer than a decade — 2004. Mitch Reynolds joined to talk about his run for La Crosse's mayor, but we had to catch up first and talk basketball, of course.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked with Washington DC corespondent David Levinthal from Business Insider about his coverage of campaigns paying or not paying their security bills to local police.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking about property taxes. Added another candidate for La Crosse mayor. Capped things off talking about presidential campaigns stiffing police for security bills.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined to talk about lame duck mayors, lame duck congress, lame duck presidents. We also talked about how local elections are more important but the voter turnout is terrible. Finally, we broke some news on the Trump election lawsuits at the Wisconsin Supreme Court and US Supreme Court
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
County employees getting raises, city employees getting raises. Talked with Eric Timmons of the La Crosse Independent about the idea that we tend to get upset when government employees get raises, but perhaps need to change that thought process a bit, and be happy middle class workers are getting a pay bump and should make it the expectation for everyone to get raises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Probably hit on 15 topics today: A new feature on Netflix, why are we watching TV with commercials, where to spend Christmas bonuses locally, best Christmas songs, the new COVID-19 metrics ...
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With two very important things happening in the world, we tried to divide the time evenly between the mysterious monoliths showing up all over the world and this vaccine for COVID-19. Dr. Chris Mayne, who studies immune regulation and is a biology professor at Viterbo U., was able to talk both with a high degree of expertise — but perhaps more so on the vaccine thing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tim Kabat joined to talk about what controversial things he'll be doing as a lame-duck mayor for La Crosse. Also, Rob Abraham talked of the Kruk sentencing (he shot a police officer), along with police getting raises and pausing alternate-side parking fines.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined to talk a wide range of things — from how pistachio green fluff "salad" should be the "Pumpkin Spice" of the Christmas Holiday season to Wisconsin Assembly leader Rob Vos' anti-COVID-19 relief and election "fraud" hearing next week. Also, Congress just decriminalized weed. Does it matter (ahem, Mitch McConnell, ahem, no).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Vaccines, COVID-19, viruses, gun rights, self defense, murder, elections, Supreme Court decisions ... we've become experts on it all, and nobody knows better than us. Except, maybe, La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke, who joined to talk about the guy who shot a La Crosse police officer being sentenced today, along with the Kyle Rittenhouse ruling, and the state Supreme Court's decision not to take up Trump's election lawsuit.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He operates a restaurant in downtown La Crosse but now wants to run for La Crosse mayor. Greg Saliaras joined to talk about why he's decided to do that. After that, we talked about the idea of giving city workers raises.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discussed the news that Mayor Tim Kabat is not seeking reelection in April. Also, the Badgers won by 40.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Had some fun joking with the new Executive Director of Downtown Mainstreet, Inc., Terry Bauer. After that, free-for-all on things like automatic checkouts and got schooled about how I missed out on Pizza Doctors downtown, which had to close a few weeks ago.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joined in as WKTY's Hunter Baumgardt gave us the play-by-play of Rotary Lights going live. Then UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky on what the political talk is like at his Thanksgiving Day table, Black Friday shopping, Facebook leading to the spread of misinformation and campaign finance (in that order).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Completing a week-and-a-half run of Thanksgiving's most controversial food items, we discuss green bean casserole. Then Pat Stevens, president of Rotary Lights, discusses every aspect of the Riverside Park display that opens at 5 p.m. Friday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kicked off the show out of breath after having to shovel the heaviest snow in world history. Or just out of shape from quarantine. The Badger Project's Peter Cameron joined and discussed how his dad likes to experiment now for Thanksgiving dinner, instead of "playing the hits." We then discussed the Top 50 donors to political campaigns in Wisconsin this year. Liberals taking the Top 2 spots.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The cranberry blob, why is that on the Thanksgiving Day table? Ranted about that canned blob of cranberry that gets 'used' once a year — Thanksgiving. Also, after a few weeks, the lack of "daylight saving" time is beginning to take its toll.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined, talked about Thanksgiving desserts, Trump's claim on Wisconsin's elections and some terrible James Bond analogy on rigged voting machines.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Continuing the Thanksgiving food controversy, we brought La Crosse Talk / Coulee Region Cooks' host Mike Hayes on to discuss whether to have skins in your mashed potatoes. After that, Caroline Gregerson on what to do with the $500,000 the city has in CARES funding. Ended the show ranting about the idea of just giving everyone $2,000 a month to stay home.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We got Congressman Ron Kind on the record over tater tot casserole (tots on top or bottom), raisins in stuffing and the big one Wednesday, that green marshmallow "salad." We also talked about his battle to keep his seat in Congress and whether he'll retire after this session, along with what to do about COVID relief.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Hunger Task Force executive director Shelly Fortner joined, and it was Day 2 of our Thanksgiving Day countdown debates over what should and shouldn't be on the table. This time, raisins in stuffing. We also talked about how the Hunger Task Force is doing with food stocks. After that, all the ridiculous COVID-19 news from Wisconsin, Minnesota and Iowa.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The big topic of the day wasn't Mayo Dr. Kevin Fitzgerald on COVID-19 or the La Crosse School District potentially canning police in schools. It was whether you put tater tots on top or bottom of tater tot casserole.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined to discuss a wide range of topics, including why Tim Kabat hasn’t announced he’s running for mayor yet and what Donald Trump will do for the next four years. In between that, we talked about Ron Kind possibly retiring, partially due to redrawing voting maps in Wisconsin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
John Havlicek, a Central HS Spanish teacher for 23 years, and the La Crosse teachers union president, joined to talk about the lavish lifestyle of teachers and Act 10.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For decades, the Wisconsin DOT has had a North-South corridor on its agenda. We talked with city council member Chris Kalow about her activism fighting the highway that would destroy over 20 acres of marsh, and the La Crosse River Trail.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about La Crosse Central High School moving away from the Red Raiders team name, decades after it removed the mascot.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kicked off the show having La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat interview WIZM's Brad Williams on his experience competing on Jeopardy. After that, we talked the city's operating budget for 2021 and what the state legislature -- which hasn't met in 7 months -- could be doing to help city's and people.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky and Rick are in for $500 each on just buying the HuHot portion of the La Crosse mall. Aside from breaking down every detail there, the two also discussed that whole presidential election thing and how Wisconsin's state government over the next two years may be WORSE than it was since the pandemic.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Schools superintendent Dr. Aaron Engel joined to talk about why the district is postponing opening schools until Jan. 18. We also discussed the School Resource Officer program, which a decision will be made on soon.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A lot of calls, venting about the elections, electoral college ...
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discussed the election, Brad Williams called in on location from some polling places, UW-L political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky called in.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After Solem rants quick about stupid time changes, so now it's dark when he leaves the studio, La Crosse County clerk Ginny Dankmeyer joined to talk about voting in the area. Before that, however, Democratic Party Chair of La Crosse County Mike Smuksta on his party's feelings heading into Tuesday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Four days before the election and UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined to talk about his best and worst Halloween candies. Oh, we also talked some politics, too.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mostly discussed how the voting rules are being changed and unchanged and changed again right up until days before the election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about the Trump rally and former La Crosse Talk PM host Mitch Reynolds called to discuss, of all things, Trump's attire in West Salem.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked with Mandi McKinney, driver of the KQ98/Z93 No. 68 Late Model Eckelberg Family Racing team at the La Crosse Speedway. She was waiting to hear from the the Trump campaign on whether the president will deliver his speech while riding shotgun at 100 mph around the track Tuesday in West Salem to maintain proper social distancing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined to talk about Trump's visit coming up Tuesday, the Biden-Trump debate and the expectations Biden may or may not have if he wins the presidency.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Democratic state Rep. Steve Doyle joined to start, as he's in a three-way race to hold onto the 94th Assembly District seat in Wisconsin. We talked campaign finance reform, Foxconn and the idea of giving businesses tax subsidies to come/stay. After that, Rick tried to change the perception that when one group of workers has it great (which allegedly was teachers for some reason) that we need to cut them down on the level of the rest of the peon workers, instead of raising the bar for everyone else.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After ranting a minute about the La Crosse County Republican Party Facebook page being sidelined for ads, 94th District Wisconsin state Assembly candidates Leroy Brown (Independent) and Kevin Hoyer (Republican) joined. Democratic incumbent Steve Doye will be on the next pod.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After wrapping up as a panelist in the 32nd District Senate debate between Democrat Brad Pfaff and Republican Dan Kapanke, spent most of the show breaking down some of the answers -- or non-answers -- they gave, including on Foxconn and campaign finance reform in the state.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Badger Project's Peter Cameron joined to talk about how money can be thrown around to support candidates in Wisconsin, as we head into a debate debate Tuesday between Brad Pfaff and Dan Kapanke for the Wisconsin State Senate 32nd District.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined to talk about his moderating the three Assembly debates over the past week, what to expect in the Kapanke/Pfaff debate, the Kind/Van Orden debate. We also hit on the Supreme Court a bit, as well as the Trump and Biden dueling town halls.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo biology prof. Dr. Ted Wilson joined to talk about those "Lady Bugs" that aren't lady bugs, trying to get in our house. After that, La Crosse Schools superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engle, on students finally coming back to the classroom and what that looks like. Also, what he would ask a state legislature for, since they haven't met since mid-April in Wisconsin, despite a pandemic.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about some of the local debates going on this week, including Wednesday's for the 95th Assembly seat. Also discussed how we always need to blame someone for everything. Caller had the audacity (sarcasm) to complain about Hwy. 33 in La Crosse being fixed ... at 1 a.m. A city council member called to explain why that's happening.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discussed the idea of a Citizens Oversight Board on policing with La Crosse County Board chair Monica Cruse. Also talked about the inevitable end to the School Resource Officer Program in the La Crosse School District.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Retired UW-L political science professor Joe Heim and WIZM's Brad Williams on the debate this afternoon between Jill Billings and Jerome Gundersen for the 95th Assembly District.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined to discuss the upcoming state Assembly, Senate, along with the US Congressional debates from candidates in our area. Also, what has the state legislature done for us. Lastly, we talked about Trump's rollercoaster ride the past two days on what the Senate should be working on -- stimulus or passing a Supreme Court judge.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Donald Trump and Mike Pence campaigns owe the city of La Crosse thousand of dollars in unpaid bills to police. Talked with La Crosse Police Capt. Jason Melby about how they go about charging campaigns for these bills. Booting their motorcade didn't appear to be an option.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's called Proposed Budgeting. The idea that a percentage of a city's budget is set aside and the community gets to vote on what that money is used for. Eric Timmons, from LaCrosseIndependent.com joined to talk about the idea, which has been successful in communities across the globe.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about the unpaid bills some campaigns dating back to 2016 still have with the La Crosse Police Dept. Before that, Scott Neumeister, owner of Neuie's Vogue Bar and Grill on the north side talked about the new state orders limiting indoor public places to 25% capacity.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat on whether he's running again in April, kicking the president out of La Crosse (Rick's words), and how we get something like a Popeyes Chicken or Chipotle downtown. Oh, and how he's coming along eating all the uneaten Oktoberfest brats.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayo Dr. Joseph Poterucha joined to sort of forecast where Wisconsin is at with COVID-19, as the state is in its worst position since the pandemic began. While he said doctors are baffled as to why Wisconsin is being hit so hard, Rick solved the issue. Poterucha agreed. Before that, Democratic Party Chair of La Crosse County, Mike Smuksta joined to talk about the Trump rally fiasco and what the GOP legislature did at the state level after Trump announced he had COVID-19 -- a preemptive Friday news dump.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Not long before the show, news broke that the MAGA rally at the La Crosse airport was cancelled. Mayor Tim Kabat came on and spoke as to the reasoning for that. La Crosse County Republican Party chair Bill Feehan came on after, criticizing the mayor and denouncing the virus.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The worst debate in the past 60 years, declared UW-La Crosse's political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky. He and Rick brainstormed some ideas for the next debate. Also snuck in some Wisconsin news, as Republicans demand the Milwaukee Brewers sausages don't show up to vote.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked mostly about the Trump-Biden debate. Will anything extraordinary happen, or even just interesting ... or are we hyping up a couple of 70-year-old senile men? Also talked with La Crosse Police Sgt. Tom Walsh on preparations they're going through with Trump's visit Saturday to a hangar at the La Crosse Airport.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Donald Trump taxes. Donald Trump coming to La Crosse. Bill Feehan, La Crosse County Party chair calls in. Talks Donald Trump rally.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Asst. Police Chief Rob Abraham joined. Biggest topic we hit was drugs, drug overdoses. Also talked about the community discussion around policing and hit on the 17-year-old that killed protesters in Kenosha.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A good mix of serious and fun with La Crosse FD's Pat Corran. We talked about drug overdoses and Pat's experience with those as a paramedic ... and how they are in no way similar to what happened in the movie Pulp Fiction. Also discussed La Crosse County's 3rd COVID-19 death and how the case count is lowering ... but we kind of move the goalposts on what's a lot of cases, it seems.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jessica Olson, running for mayor in La Crosse. Olson is a city council member, since 2017. Mayor Tim Kabat has been in office since 2013. After the interview, reaction ...
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Wisconsin mask mandate, but cancelling Halloween? Joked about that for a minute, before bringing on La Crosse School Superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel. We talked whether schools would re-open Oct. 5. Police in schools. And the idea that virtual learning may be better for some.---September 22, 2020: La Crosse Talk PM - Call or text (608)785-7914
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked with UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Joe Heim on the hipocracy of Republicans choosing now to replace Ruth Bader Ginsburg. Before that, though, Lee Rasch, executive director of LeaderEthics-Wisconsin, talked about a discussion that's happening Tuesday on voting, that is bringing in state and local leaders -- called Vote Safe Wisconsin. https://www.wizmnews.com/2020/09/21/vote-safe-project-state-local-la-crosse-leaders-discuss-answer-questions-surrounding-voting-integrity-tuesday/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Had some fun on a Friday, hitting a lot of topics with Dr. Anthony Chergosky, a UW-La Crosse political science professor. Everything from political overload and meme culture to political ads that don't really say anything and don't seem to represent any particular party.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The La Crosse County Health Dept. gave three hours notice it would have a health briefing today on the rise in the virus. We recap that meeting and talk about the rise in cases, that may ultimately lead to hospitalizations and deaths.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked mostly virus, but State Senate candidate Brad Pfaff joined to discuss his running for the 32nd District. La Crosse moved to No. 1 on the New York Times list for growing COVID-19 cases. County is averaging 100 per day.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Fire Dept. Captain John Bayer joined to talk about the person that fell of Grandad Bluff, a little history on calls out to the bluff, and whether or not he did any burnouts with the new fire truck. Also, discussed the Eagle sculpture coming down in Riverside Park that appears to cost a lot to restore.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse graduate student Hannah Meyer broke down quite a bit of what's happening on campus — from COVID-19 to parking to whether students should be charged full tuition. Oh, and she doesn't like "Hatched Baby," either, which she had to endure while waiting for a test at the National Guard testing site.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science prof. Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined. Opened the show describing the Onalaska stabbing, which may or may not have stemmed from listening to a caller on WIZM the day before afraid terrorists were at the Stoney Creek (they were not). We also discussed the Wisconsin Supreme Court halting absentee ballots -- along party lines -- and the north side La Crosse priests divisive political commentary.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat joins, he'll answer any question. This time, we covered boozing on pedal pubs, COVID-19 cases skyrocketing and what the city can or can't do, the situation at UW-L, the arts board wanting more power and money, as well as the calls ... which included Karen asking the mayor if he was ready to protect the city from the busloads of Antifa members at a hotel ready to head "downtown to steal things."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dan Kapanke joins, to talk about why he should be Wisconsin's 32nd district senator over Brad Pfaff. Afterward, we broke down the conversation ... including with Kapanke, who called back.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit a couple different topics, including Bucks. Hit on the Mike Pence visit again, including Pence not bringing up the closing of Dairyland Power's Genoa plant, while visiting Dairyland Power. Also, a COVID-19 case in one of La Crosse's schools
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
WIZM's Brad Williams was at the VP Mike Pence rally at Dairyland Power. Talked about that, Dairyland Power a bit. Opened the show talking about the Milwaukee Bucks' dilemma with Giannis Antetokounmpo.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about quite a few things in an abbreviated show (thanks Brewers). Rick ends with all the campaign flyers he's received so far in the mail. All of them a tad ridiculous.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo biology prof. Dr. Ted Wilson joined to talk GMOs. Help explain the idea from Florida releasing genetically modified mosquitoes in hopes to kill off a certain breed that spreads disease. But, considering all the "Florida man" stories, this may be the last one ever, "Florida man releases GMO mosquitoes, dooms society forever."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked access to the internet, and how it's handled in Wisconsin with The Badger Project's Peter Cameron. Opened the show talking about the second COVID death in La Crosse, and we also hit on the topic of policing with Cameron, as well.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit a lot of topics today with callers, including Trump visiting Kenosha, COVID is a hoax, where is the Hiawatha statue ... and Eric from Sparta called with a compliment.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
For the second time since November, the GOP-controlled state legislature held a 30-second session -- this time on policing -- after Gov. Tony Evers called a special session. We talked to Assemblyman Steve Doyle, who drove to Madison for those 30 seconds. Also talked about the Hearts in the Park event happening to help homeless Tuesday at the Salvation Army. Amanda Mullally, a local nurse, joined to break down how we can help.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A fun show again with UW-La Crosse Political Science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky. We discussed how, again, the Republican-led Wisconsin legislature is going to gavel in and immediately gavel out of a special session Monday without debate on the issues at hand. We also broke down the RNC convention and how the GOP tries to pin everything on Joe Biden, even if they're the complete opposite things.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke joined, and discussed the process now for what happens from the Kenosha police shooting. We also discussed some shootings in La Crosse, where police killed or shot somebody. After, Brad Williams joined, back from a Central High School rally to play fall sports in the fall.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Not long before the show, the Milwaukee Bucks made the decision to sit out a playoff game. The Brewers appear to be following. We dive into that, as well as the 17-year-old kid who murdered two people during the night's protests.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Schools superintendent, Dr. Aaron Engel, joined and we covered just about everything from postponing fall sports to virtual learning to the county axing the COVID Compass and replacing it with nothing for two weeks, while schools were using that.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent most of the show running around the notion that Kenosha police were or weren't justified in shooting a guy 7 times, as he heads back to his car where three of his five kids, aged 3-7 are present. Opened the show quick about La Crosse County COVID-19 numbers, as compared -- not equally -- to what state data shows.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined to break down the DNC convention, how Wisconsin is the most important state for 2020 and the difference in messaging Republicans have now vs. in 2016 — no "Lock her up"-like chant yet for Joe Biden.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Catholic Charities executive director Roberto Partarrieu joined on an abbreviated show to talk about a new community resource center they're looking to develop on Fifth Ave. S., barring city approval. Most believe CC is a shelter, but they're not. They help the needy with things like mental health, job training and financial assistance.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two topics today, the homeless dilemma in La Crosse, as well as some voting ballot scenarios in Wisconsin, and Minnesota. Salvation Army of La Crosse's Krista Coey joined first, followed by La Crosse County Clerk Ginny Dankmeyer.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Congressman Ron Kind joined. Talked about a lot of things from saving our wildlife refuges (or not saving them), running for a 13th term, conversations over policing and protests and whether the campaign fight between he and Van Orden will get messy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Had some stuff planed, but Eric from Sparta had other ideas. What, was Sean Hannity and Rush Limbaugh railing on mail-in voting before La Crosse Talk PM on Monday? Kind of seems like it. So, that's what we talked about.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Derrick Van Orden joined. He is running to unseat Ron Kind in the US House's 3rd Congressional District here in Wisconsin. Before that, talked about the whirlwind of news on a Friday. After the interview, some socialism talk.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We got the flamethrower conversation out of the way, right away. Also hit on some position cuts proposed by the mayor, PFAS regulation being delayed in the state, new police/fire command center, and a bit on the homeless in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor joined and we talked about EVERYTHING — Biden's VP pick, Kamala Harris, the do-nothing Congress on the fed level, Trump executive orders, the Marquette Poll, the do-nothing Wisconsin state Legislature. PHEW.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lately, a lot of homeless in Cameron Park have been ticketed for being there after hours, some even being kicked awake, they say. Kimmarie Erickson joined. She's been trying to help homeless since the pandemic — since she lost her job, as well. Also talked to Randy Whitney, a homeless man who was ticketed Monday night for $124.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
OK, the cartoon-native American statue in Riverside Park named Hiawatha didn't come down today, but we talked a bit about it with La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat. Also, hit on FIX THE ROADS, PARKING, policing and the homeless issue in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The underdog running for the Republican nomination in US Congress for Wisconsin's 3rd District, Jessi Ebben joined, and we jumped around on both why she's better for Wisconsin than Derrick Van Orden, and why Ron Kind needs to go. Reaction after that, as well as some news on the virus in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Assistant Police Chief Rob Abraham joined for most of the show. We talked about the Campbell Police drug bust that involved confiscating some AR15s and a flamethrower, which, of course we had a couple conversations on throughout — including a text to La Crosse Fire Chief Ken Gilliam. Also discussed how the police seemed to be the topic of conversation at a bunch of city committees lately, and hit on the Walgreens arrest that was so scrutinized on the internet. Before that, Rick talked about the "reinfection" in La Crosse County with a Mayo infectious disease specialist and whether someone in LaX did get the virus twice.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brad Pfaff, who's running for the Democratic nomination for the 32nd District in the Wisconsin state Senate joined. After that, we more or less broke down what Pfaff had to say, along with a little sidebar on the Mayor calling out healthcare systems over medical debt.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Eric Timmons is the editor and chief of LaCrosseIndependent.com, a relatively young site for news in the Coulee Region. He joins to talk mostly about some recent stories the Independent has had on medical debt and that evolved into a conversation about universal health care. Rick also stuck him with most of the anti-healthcare-for-all callers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Onalaska's police shared a video of a guy trying to kick a Trump sign. It didn't go well. We talked with Chief Charles Ashbeck about that and a couple other things. After that, MASK-gate. Some callers think they found the loophole into not having the tyrannical government make you wear a mask so we don't spread the virus.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Four-part show. A. Rick rails against elected Sheriff's railing against mask mandates. B. Wisconsin 32nd District candidate Nurse Jayne (Swiggum) brings it from multiple perspectives on why she should be area's rep. C. La Crescent Police Chief Doug Stavenau on the MN mask mandate and the year "anniversary" of the state banning cellphones while driving. D. Police's dilemma when 100 "Karens" call about someone not wearing a mask.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gov. Evers imposes a mask mandate on Wisconsin. A county sheriff says, "Nope, not enforcing that." Gundersen's infection control specialist joined, and, lastly, callers got into a conversation about the guy who was killed by police after he was caught passed out behind the wheel at a drive thru.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Turn downtown and uptown La Crosse into a big open market? A plan SORT OF like that is in the works, and we talked with Robin Moses exec. director at Downtown Mainstreet Inc. about the “Outdoor Cafe Program." City committees, council votes on it Thursday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse teachers' union president John Havlicek, who is also a Spanish teacher at Central High School, joined to discuss the decision by the district's decision to postpone in-person school for at least a month.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent most of the show on parking in La Crosse, as the group conducting the $100,000 parking study the past year presented to the Board of Public Works on Monday morning. Rick did open with Trump and Favre golfing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After a little rant about parking in La Crosse (a $100,000 parking study) we talked with Mayo's Dr. Andrew Jagim, director of sports medicine research, on how pro sports are restarting, and how to do that at a high school / college level -- if possible.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What do you do when there's no "humane society" for stray animals in your county? Aside from a quick hit on Rick's stray kitten dilemma and sports being back, spent most of the time discussing why a mask mandate is a good thing for states -- because you can just blame the Democrats -- and a caller brought up the trouble with a backlog in testing and having to quarantine yourself until results come.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
About 700 things covered today. Everything from tearing down statues because communism (?) to mask mandates to defunding the police, who need not be on kitten patrol.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Schools superintendent Dr. Aaron Engel joined to talk about reopening schools, along with the relationship with La Crosse Police over School Resource Officers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat joined. Talked about masks mandates, the statue, a boat dock for Riverside Park, shootings in La Crosse and whether he's running for mayor in April 2021.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking a bit about the first COVID-19 deaths in La Crosse and Trempealeau counties. Spent the rest of the hour letting people "vent" about the La Crosse parks board voting unanimously to remove the Hiawatha statue.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Another day, another discussion about whether or not the Hiawatha "native/Indian" statue should be taken out of Riverside Park.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After a "Scott's comment" from the La Crosse County Republican Party chair on how the gerrymandered political maps in Wisconsin aren't gerrymandered, Viterbo University political science professor Keith Knutson joined to discuss how they are, in fact, gerrymandered. Before that, hit on a couple different topics from the virus, to schools reopening to unemployment benefits.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked mostly about how schools are going to reopen. A little different with a virus running wild in US vs. other countries. Also, discussed the Hiawatha statue some more. Time to protest in support of keeping the statue?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Callers sound off on the notion moving the Hiawatha "native American" like statue out of Riverside Park
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked a bit about a FB post sharing some of the La Crosse community's thoughts on a recent BLM protest, which exposed some people as pretty racist, and not caring about showing their racism on Facebook. Brad Williams also broke some news about a Dakota, Minn., man calling into police, saying he shot his wife. Lastly, talked about how the NFL solved the pandemic by banning jersey exchanges after tackling each other for three hours.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about 100 things, from items on the city council budget tonight, to the virus, to funding the police to bringing schools back in session.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
While part of the national talking point since the George Floyd murder in Minneapolis has hovered around defunding the police, in La Crosse it could be the exact opposite. Part of potential plans for the city, a $36 million police/fire center. La Crosse city council members Doug Happel and Jessica Olson both joined to discuss Thursday's vote. Before that, talked a bit about the mayor's wife being changed after getting pepper sprayed.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Winona imposes citywide mask order. La Crosse next? Also, La Crosse School Board president Laurie Cooper Stoll on the creating of a committee to look into the relationship of the school with the city's School Resource Officer program. Oh, and Brook and Robin Lopez of the Bucks sneaking into Walt Disney World. "Sorry folks, we're closed."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Had some fun talking with UW-La Crosse political science professor, Dr. Anthony Chergosky. We discussed Kanye running for president, worked that into the Supreme Court decision on electors, and also talked about the narrow path of going after Bubba Wallace in NASCAR, by the president. Began the show talking a bit about the La Crosse School Board voting on a committee to look into city police's School Resource Officer program.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent most of the show discussing all the different ways the La Crosse Loggers should and shouldn't be playing baseball, as the case count in county surges. The health director wasn't happy to hear those events were happening, as the city was doing things like cancelling the fireworks show at Riverside Park
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
OK, not really. But La Crosse Fire Chief Ken Gilliam joined and we did talk about defunding the police, and, in relation to that, all the responsibilities that the La Crosse Fire Dept. has. We also hit on fireworks and took some calls. Started the show ripping on signs that were posted across town threatening homeless people — because that's who we're picking on now.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wildlife Rehabilitation Center of Minnesota (WRC) 18-year exec. director Phil Jennings joined to tell stories about rescuing animals. The Roseville, Minn., center has had more animals each of the past eight years, including a week in June with the most ever patients in its 41-year history.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked for a bit about the cancellation of La Crosse's Oktobefest, which comes about two months after Germany cancelled its fest. After that, New Horizons Shelter and Outreach Center exec. director Ann Kappauff joined to talk about domestic violence amid a global pandemic. People "staying at home" when home isn't exactly safe.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick Solem is back ... talked quite a bit about the murder that happened in downtown La Crosse on Saturday morning.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Hayes filling in for Rick Solem, capping off the week.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Day 4 with Mike Hayes filling in for Rick Solem.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Day 3 with Mike Hayes filling in with Rick Solem. Hayes in joined by US congressional candidate Derrick Van Orden, who is trying to unseat Ron Kind in Wisconsin's 3rd District.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Day 2 of Mike Hayes filling in for Rick Solem.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Day 1 of Mike Hayes filling in for Rick Solem (June 22).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Soon-to-be La Crosse School District Superintendent Aaron Engel joins. We talked fall classes, fall sports, whacky ideas for teaching in a pandemic, year-round schools and where the school might go with resource officers. Before that, a quick COVID-19 update as La Crosse County, again, set a case record.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Assistant Chief Rob Abraham joins from the city of La Crosse Police Department. Before that, Rick calls out the La Crosse County Republican Party on questioning leadership throughout the city.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After discussing the rise again in COVID-19 cases, we talked with La Crosse School Board president Laurie Cooper Stoll, about the idea of not having school resource officers in the district. After, Kaitlyn Riley of WIZM, discussed what the county health department has been talking about during their weekly public briefings, as we see businesses shutting down due to exposure.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After discussing quickly the single-day high 21 COVID-19 cases in La Crosse County, we changed gears and talk with Will VanRoosenbeek, who is on the board at the LGBTQ Center in La Crosse. Will and Rick discuss the U.S. Supreme Court decision to back protections for the LGBTQ community in the workplace ... three days after the Trump administration rolled back rules that protect the LGBTQ community from discrimination in health care ... during pride month ... on the "anniversary" of the Orlando shooting. Another coincidence?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking about Donald Trump's strange walk down a ramp and even stranger way he drank a small glass of water. After that, Megan Meller, infection specialist at Gundersen Health System, joined to talk about how opening up has exposed La Crosse to the virus. Seven bars and the beach are on the health department's list of possible exposure June 5-7.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked Covid-19 numbers to start and end the show. In between, talked to WIZM's Kaitlyn Riley about Holmen schools removal of its memorial wall, sending family members with plaques on that wall a letter, out of the blue, saying, essentially, "come get your family's plaque." After that, talked to the Fat Porcupine's owner, Brie Roland about a policy change of no longer accepting "gratuities." A pandemic has customers in restaurants way down. How does someone live off tips when there are no tips?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
First talked about the new COVID-19 numbers, after the jump in cases lately. After that, talked with Viterbo political science professor Keith Knutson about how the letter that wasn't from the La Crosse County Republican Party to HS seniors was actually from the La Crosse County Republican Party ... perhaps a rogue member of the executive committee. After that, discussed ways the state GOP is trying to bypass Gov. Evers' ability to veto district maps come 2021. So, a complete takeover by one party on how voting maps are drawn in Wisconsin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking about the "fake" letter that was denounced by La Crosse County Republican Party chair Bill Feehan on this show two weeks ago. Today, it came out that letter was written by a member of the county party's executive committee — without approval.
After that, La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke was nice enough to spend the hour with us, first talking about how the La Crosse police, and Wisconsin policing, compares with the 8cantwait.org campaign — in how to reform police. We also talked about systemic racism and how it exists in La Crosse, and took some calls on that.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat joined, talked about the protests, more of what the city is doing to adjust to the social inequality felt after those protests. Callers asked the mayor about what is open, which is odd, because everything's been open since mid-May. Kabat addressed the situation with his wife being pepper sprayed. And we briefly discussed the budget cuts.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergowsky joined for the hour. We start by breaking down the Lincoln Project, because another guest, executive director Sarah Lenti, joins a few minutes in. A new ad they have out does not mince words on Trump's actions lately. After, we talk the jobs report and end with a quick word on Mayor Kabat's wife being deemed the instigator when she was pepper sprayed.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After talking about the protest in La Crosse from the day before, Libertarian Party presidential candidate Jo Jorgensen joined. We discussed everything -- and agreed on almost nothing -- from health care to billionaires, the environment, COVID-19 and social injustice.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about the protest that's happening in La Crosse and, in between that, Gundersen internal medicine Dr. Michael Nolan joined to talk about COVID-19, opening up, and what the protests might reveal in a few weeks.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked with St. Paul native and musician, Robert Ellis, who was at a few of the protests in the Twin Cities, including watching when the Third Precinct in Minneapolis was burned down. Before that, Rick rants about Trump's speech, draws comparisons from Monty Python's Search for the Holy Grail and brings up Scott Walker's tweet on it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Fire Chief Ken Gilliam joined to talk about the protests happening across the country, how La Crosse is prepared. Gilliam spent a majority of his career working for the St. Paul fire department, so he has a unique perspective as to what his colleagues there have gone through the past few days.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit on a lot of stuff. First, talked about how unpredictable the COVID-19 numbers have been, for anybody trying to use those as a political argument, they always seem to be a letdown. After that, Shelly Fortner, the Hunger Task Force of La Crosse executive director, joined to update us on the Food Drive Friday finale and how they're now giving out food boxes each Friday. Lastly, we talked about Trump's "looting-shooting" tweet and the Minneapolis protests.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about the bluegreen algae bloom that can really be bad for dogs, along with a new study being down at Goose Island on the southside of La Crosse with Mississippi River Water Quality specialist at the Wisconsin DNR, Shawn Giblin, a La Crosse area native.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brought in Dr. Gary Weigel at Thompson Animal Medical Center | Veterinary Clinic, on how they're handling things pandemic, what you might need to be getting done for your pets and, best of all, we talked about Thunder, their 15-year-old paralyzed cat, they took in as a kitten that had broke its back. After that, Dr. Wayne Bottner, Medical director of the blood bank at Gundersen Health System, talked all things blood and donations.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about quite a few things on this Memorial Day, including remembering some past veterans from Rick's family and a few callers. Also discussed how 675,000 people in Wisconsin have yet to get unemployment. Lastly, Rick stopped by Pettibone Beach just before the show. It was packed.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked a little about the daily COVID-19 tally, before bringing on Shelly Fortner with the Hunger Task Force of La Crosse. Food Drive Fridays' second last week was another good one. After that, GasBuddy.com petroleum analyst Patrick De Haan joined to talk about the Sauid v. Russia oil war and gas prices.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked meat processing plants, big v. small farms gardening and more with MOSES Organic Specialist Chuck Anderas.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Was supposed to be a NASCAR race but instead, La Crosse Talk PM during a rain delay. Rick and friend-of-show No. 3 both got their $1,200 checks. But how should we be better taking care of society, than these random checks? $2,000 a month to citizens? A bottom-up strategy, instead of the "trickle down" system?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked with US Congressman Ron Kind and then about US Congressman Ron Kind. Hit on Covid-19 funding, getting people $2,000 monthly payments, the HEROES Act, the Joe Biden round-table coming up.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Getting politics out of drawing political lines is something Wisconsin voters overwhelmingly want to do. We talk with Common Cause in Wisconsin executive director Jay Heck about that, including how Ron Kind will never have a competitive race with these district lines. We also hit on the state Supreme Court and voting by mail.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discussion surrounding how we get back into competitive sports (from kids to pros to weekend warriors) with Dr. ANDREW JAGIM, Dir. of Sports Medicine Research at Mayo Clinic Health System in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After ranting a bit about how to open up Wisconsin for business, La Crosse Area YMCA CEO Bill Soper joined to discuss their plans for getting people back in the building. After that, La Crosse County Board president Monica Kruse joined to talk about what issues have come through their offices today.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked with La Crosse School's superintendent Randy Nelson on a whole slew of interesting topics surrounding education. After that, Reed Galen with the Lincoln Project -- a group of former Republicans who are anti-Trump.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Captain Leslie Westmont with the 115th Fighter Wing talks about the four F-16s flying over La Crosse, as part of training and a tribute to health care/essential workers. Also, May is National Stroke Month, and Dr. Jeff Wiswell of Mayo in La Crosse talks with us about strokes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Right off the bat, we asked La Crosse Mayor the most pressing question: '86 Celtics or '97 Bulls? After that, we discuss the city's $6 million budget shortfall this year, what kinds of ways to make that money up, why the mayor's dogs were barking and Gov. Tony Evers' loosening some of the "safe at home" restrictions for businesses.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Food Drive Fridays was again a success. We talked with Hunger Task Force of La Crosse exec. director Shelly Fortner how what that means looking ahead. Also asked about acquiring dairy and meat, as processing is slowed and we're seeing milk dumped and animals euthanized and discarded. After that, Freedom Honor Flight president Dave Larsen, as they were supposed to have the 25th flight May 9.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
MURDER HORNETS, what are they? We talk with Viterbo's chair of biology, Ted Wilson about that. He's an expert in entomology — the study of bugs. After that, Firefighters Credit Union president Bruce "the money man" Zmolek, with some news dealing with Food Drive Fridays and a big matching donation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kicked off the show talking how the Packers fans have been ranked No. 1. After that, we discussed some specifics now the Wisconsin GOP has revealed to re-open the state. After that, Dr. Jennifer Brumm, a Mayo pediatrician, on the challenged parents and kids are having hovering around the virus pandemic.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Grant and Rick discussed some of the rollbacks at the DMV, including no more road tests to get your drivers license. After that, Andrea Schnick, La Crosse's economic development planner, joined and talked about the city's Small Business Relief grant program, along with Riverpointe District.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Opened — and closed — talking about the 79-year-old who died from injuries sustained during a fight with a 50-year-old over parking at Menards in La Crosse. In between that, we also had a long discussion on hospitals re-opening — and why did they have to close to begin with? — with Mayo's Dr. Fitzgerald, who's in Family Medicine and the Chair for Outpatient Practice.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked with Hunger Task Force La Crosse director Shelly Fortner about food drives, food shortages. Opened the show talking about factory farms unable to get animals "processed." Capped off the show with what Grant and Rick are binging.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayor Tim Kabat joined right off the bat to talk about RIverfest cancelling in La Crosse. We also discussed other fests, like Oktoberfest's plans in September. After that, La Crosse Fire Chief Ken Gilliam on all kinds of topics from saving cats in trees to how a firefighters' life has changed amid a global pandemic. Lastly, Grant and Rick talk about the Moon Tunes virtual concert that was going on as we spoke.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Looking at COVID-19 through a unique model designed by Viterbo University history professor Eric Weinberg. Here's the link to the map: http://balefire.info/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show on the idea of having to label someone Democrat or Republican, before you even know what they stand for — whether that's a new politician or a talk show host. Then discussed Donald Trump's executive order to keep meat "plants" open, as well as Mike Pence's actions at Mayo in Rochester. Lastly, we grill La Crosse County Health director Jen Rombalski on the Covid-19.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After we talked about Grant Bilse's trip up nort', former Wisconsin state ag. secretary Brad Pfaff joined, to discuss his running for the 32nd District in the Senate. After that, we rant about the partisan politics that's plaguing Wisconsin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kicked off the show talking about the Packers first-round pick. Shelly Fortner from Hunger Task Force La Crosse then joined to talk about Food Drive Fridays. After that, we got some calls from the protest in Madison, and we listened to Trump's comment Thursday about cleaning our bodies from the virus.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With Viterbo political science professor, Dr. Keith Knutson, we covered everything from the fight between the Wisconsin GOP vs. Tony Evers' shutdown order going to the Supreme Court, to tech companies tracking our movements to gauge the virus to buying Mexico. Yes, we discussed buying Mexico, after a caller said the US should.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Explore La Crosse executive director joined first to talk about the state of La Crosse's economy as its impacted by COVID-19. ... After, UW-La Crosse political science professor Dr. Anthony Chergosky helps break down our political divide.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County Health director Jen Rombalski joined us to talk about some stuff we discussed before her call -- the accuracy of those who are now reported to have the virus and got it from in-person voting in Milwaukee. Also, if you maybe had the virus, but didn't get tested, is there a test now to determine that?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Discussion today hovered around re-opening the economy, while meat processing plants are shutting down because workers are getting the virus like crazy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We brought on Pat Corran from the La Crosse Fire Dept. and grilled him on all things fire pits and burn bans and tickets for such things. Also talked about the stay at home order and tried to get into some unemployment talk.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo political science professor, Dr. Keith Knutson joined. We talked about the Wisconsin Supreme Court race, how lame duck Justice Dan Kelly will un-recuse himself now from the voter purge. Also hit on third-party candidates and if Mark Cuban -- another TV show host -- would make a splash.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After breaking down some COVID-19 numbers, US Congressman Ron Kind talked about a slew of things from paid sick leave to farming struggles. After that, La Crosse County Health Dept. director Jen Rombalski talked about how the area is dealing with COVID-19.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked about the plummeting gas prices and how the US now needs to get involved with OPEC to RAISE gas prices because we're the No. 1 oil/gas producer.
The Wisconsin Assembly voted virtually on some COVID-19 legislation aid. We talked with state Rep. Steve Doyle, who represents most of La Crosse County that isn't La Crosse/French Island.
Lastly, Rick's theory on how Republicans will now take their own lawsuit decision from the Wisconsin Supreme Court and send it to the US Supreme Court, now that liberal Jill Karofsky has won over conservative Dan Kelly. The Republicans now hope all those absentee ballots that didn't get in by Tuesday would be accepted six days later -- as a federal judge had decided to extend the deadline, before being overruled by Republicans and the state Supreme Court the night before the election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Should it be federal, state or county that decides when to reopen amid the COVID-19 pandemic? Aside from that conversation, we got some election results and took some calls.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jordan Kaaze joins us to talks about taking a nursing job in New York City, the new heart of the global pandemic known as COVID-19. Before that, we talked about a new push to restock food pantries in La Crosse County. Social worker Lindsey Schwarz-Nichols joined to explain how the county's health dept. and Hunger Task Force La Crosse have teamed up to start Food Drive Fridays. After that, Grant and Rick discussed re-starting baseball — because Fridays need some sports talk.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo political science professor Dr. Keith Knutson joins, talking the Wisconsin election debacle, mail-in elections, moving elections, gerrymandering, Bernie Sanders dropping out and more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked with La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat on Wisconsin's election debacle (though not so much in our area), some COVID-19 news, how the city may help small businesses, traffic lights, fixing the roads and what his dog keeps barking at in the background.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dr. Anthony Chergosky joined to talk about the bleep show that has been the Wisconsin election.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Minutes before we go to air, the state Supreme Court in Wisconsin overruled Gov. Tony Evers earlier order to cancel in-person elections. La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke joined to talk about all the court stuff.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Covid-19 updates, Eric from Sparta tries to sell Grant a guitar, voting and what's on your watch list to binge this weekend?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Keith Knutson joins to talk about State Sen. Jennifer Shilling announcing she's not running for re-election, as well as polls being reduced from 13 to eight in La Crosse, as the mayor declared a state of emergency in the city. Also hit on the Democratic Presidential nomination process.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A lot covered. First, La Crosse County Health Dept. director Jen Rombalski on the investigation that happens after a confirmed COVID-19 case. After that, the Mendota Heights PD had an interesting social distancing post. Plus, the Marquette Law School poll, which had some surprising numbers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How are you gonna spend that $1,200 government aid check? Should you even be getting a check? Is the check too much, too little?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Before quaran-thoughts, we brought in Gundersen Infection Specialist Megan Meller and asked a bunch of questions. Then, along with WKTY's Grant Bilse, we talked about some of the weirdest things people have been thinking while home on quarantine.
Since there are no sports, Bilse will be in here with Rick. Actually, he's in studio. Rick is locked up in a closet somewhere, isolating.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
City of La Crosse police chief Shawn Kudron called in to talk about all their efforts surrounding the COVID-19 outbreak. Is crime up or down now that we're staying at home? Are they breaking up basketball games at the park? Are they being more lenient with minor crimes?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo political science professor Keith Knutson on from a remote location. We opened talking about how he's handling online classes with his students. Took a bunch of calls. And then Rick peppered him with questions on how we pass a seemingly unfathomable $2.2 trillion aid package.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
While we've all been ordered to stay at home, some out there are out there. No home whatsoever. Talked with Development Director at Salvation Army Christina Knutson about what they're doing to help and what the La Crosse community has done and can do to help, as well. After that, talked with Mayo's Karen Hall, in Behavioral Health, about kids' perspective during a global pandemic.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
First the news was La Crosse County cases doubled from 5 to 10 for COVID-19. Then, halfway through the show, news trickles in that the first two cases of community spread occurred. Also, why is Onalaska having a city council meeting open to the public?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Here's the interview with La Crosse Mayo Health System's chief nursing officer and Incident Commander for our COVID-19 HICS response team, Jason Fratzke on, mostly about supplies and testing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Had Southside Elementary teacher Luke Ackerson on to talk about what teachers, students and parents are having to deal with, amid the changes to learning. Also had Coulee Region Humane Society director Heather Drievold to see what they're doing to help and how we can help them.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the second half of the show, interviewed Wisconsin Supreme Court nominee Jill Karofsky, not so much about all that court stuff, but about her partaking in ultramarathons and ironman competitions. Kicked off the show with Jeremy Miller, the Minnesota Senate president, representing District 28, which includes Winona, Fillmore and Houston counties. We talked Covid-19.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two interviews hovering around the coronavirus, COVID-19. First, La Crosse County health director Jen Rombalski about the first two cases in the area. After that, talked with Mary Kay Wolf from the Great Rivers United Way, who, along the La Crosse Community Foundation, has set up emergency relief funds to help those impacted by the virus.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tons of questions on COVID-19 answered by Megan Meller, infection preventionist at Gundersen Health System in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gov. Tony Evers shut down Wisconsin bars and restaurants after 5 p.m. Now this is serious. Gundersen infectious disease specialist Megan Meller answered a ton of questions. After that, calls about COVID-19 being a Chinese hoax and last ditch effort by the swamp to get Trump out of office (of course) and another call that I'm not helping the milk delivery drivers, or something (thanks Eric from Sparta)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
When will it end? Not the coronavirus, itself, but our ability to not have to talk about it?
Did try and mix it up toward the end. But, at this point, everything changes day to day.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gov. Tony Evers cancelled school in Wisconsin. TP is gone. Coronavirus everywhere.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo political science professor Keith Knutson and UW-La Crosse polysci professor Joe Heim in studio.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Another COVID-19, coronavirus show. UW-L cancelled classes. We talked with Chancellor Joe Gow about that. Also had a teacher, Heidi Jaye, from West Seattle, call in, talking about how the Seattle Public School System has shut down. Seems more like a question of if, not when, it hits Wisconsin in full force.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mostly talked about the coronavirus, or, if you're now an expert, you're calling it COVID-19
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayor Tim Kabat in studio talking La Crosse's best pizza, alternate-side parking, Grandads Bluff trails, Coronavirus, Burns Park, City police resource officers and more ...
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Yelich signs $215-million deal, Lakers-Bucks, Badgers for Big Ten title, and Chick-fil-A coming to Onalaska, which has the LGBTQ community upset and ready to protest.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked Super Tuesday, Bernie, Trump, opioids and the North Marianas presidential primary with Viterbo University political science professor, Dr. Keith Knutson.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ben Wikler, the Democratic Party Chair of Wisconsin, called in to talk Mike Pence cancelling his "Women for Trump" rally in Onalaska. We also discussed the Supreme Court race in Wisconsin. We rode that conversation through the hour.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent most of the show talking about an "incident" in Holmen, where someone etched the N word on someone's car (like if you were to write "wash me" with your finger) along with a swastika. Also talked about the speed limit change on Mormon Coulee Rd., along with a little Super Tuesday, Bernie conspiracy discussion.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Former Minnesota DNR boss Tom Landwehr joins to talk about the controversy surrounding a foreign corporation Twin Metals mining project right near the Boundary Waters.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brad Williams joins to do his best Bernie and Principal Seymour impressions, along with talk about the CNN analyst that was at UWL on Thursday. After that, toilet talk. Expensive toilets. La Crosse toilet reviews (that's a thing on Instagram). And we wrap up with Tom complaining medicare for all doesn't' work but also he's a vet that doesn't' get VA care because he has too many assets.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talking about government programs, student loans, opioids among other things with Viterbo political science prof. Keith Knutson.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent most of the hour talking about a shooting in Milwaukee at the Molson Coors factory that killed seven. Also hit on the dem debate just a bit.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick talks about how he wheeled and dealed for his last car, as he goes through the car buying experience again. Also, a 62-year-old marine planked for 8 hours. WHAT? And, a bit on the coronavirus.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
MOSES Organic Farming Conference is in town this week. Opened up about eight rabbit holes with MOSES partnership director Tom Manley when it comes to today's farmers, farming. We definitely could have done an eight-hour show.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
WKTY's Grant Bilse from the Wisco Sports Show joins and we debate the Dem Debate.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo political science professor Keith Knutson joined in studio to talk the Democratic presidential nominees, Trump pardons and Roger Stone, and even some voucher school talk in Wisconsin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
No, it's not gasoline. Or Pabst. That would be interesting. We talk food delivery trends, including from KwikTrip, with Madison-based Eat Street's Adam Katz.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hulu, Netflix, Disney+, how you watching TV? We discuss ...
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking about voting primaries, but then someone called in and ripped on Star Trek Voyager, which turned into talk about the Star Trek universe.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about Grandma's Gateway, hit up WKTY's Grant Bilse and talked a little Houston Astros cheating ... and Gary Padesky called in with more on his reasoning voting for rezoning to the bluff trails.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Keith Knutson, Viterbo University political science professor in studio, talking 2020 presidential race, Trump, and warpowers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse County District Attorney Tim Gruenke stopped in studio to talk about the cash bail/bond system and how it works, doesn't work. We hit on a bunch of other things, as well, including racial inequality and Roger Stone -- which now seem like two things on opposite ends of the spectrum.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You say car wash or car worsh? For some reason, we argued about the city-owned car wash. Rick bitched about the state government's snowflake attitude over stalling the bipartisan bills over sexual assault rape kits. And, a little on Grandma's Gateway gate.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked Green Island Ice Arena, Grandma's Gateway and the Hixon Forest trail system and a couple other things with La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit a lot of topics: 1. Rick rants about Rush Limbaugh, 2. Stop watching the Badgers and start watching the Bucks with WKTY's Grant Bilse, 3. Weird Cottage Grove -- Wisconsin AND Minnesota -- stories about teachers/police doing inappropriate things with students, 4. the Riverside Park Eagle Sculpture, 5. Callers scared about "The Squad," because they're powerful brown women with a voice.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Freedom Honor Flight president Dave Larsen in studio. He's hoping there's a WWII vet in the area to get on this spring's flight, otherwise it'll be the first time ever one is not on board.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Trump has been acquitted, so Keith Knutson joined us to talk impeachment. We also dove into the Iowa caucus debacle.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talk about the fight over trail access around Grandad Bluff with WIZM's Brad Williams, who's been to all the contentious meetings. Also, talked to Winona County assistant sheriff Jeff Mueller on the Super Bowl commercial shot in his jurisdiction.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Winona Ryder was in Winona last month filming some ads, one of which played on the Super Bowl. We talked to Visit Winona executive director Pat Mutter about that, including the fake sign Ryder was lying in front of, which has disappeared ... BUT, later, someone called in and said their neighbor has the sign. So, perhaps more to come Tuesday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brad Williams stopped in off the bat to update us on a court case. After that, WKTY's Grant Bilse from from the Wisco Sports Show came on in our "Through the Wall" segment to update us on Kobe King leaving the Badgers. Finished off talking with Wisconsin state Sen. Patrick Testin, as he toured the Mid-West Family facility today in a sort of "dirty jobs" experience he's doing across his district and the state.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo political science professor Keith Knutson in for his Thursday visit to hash out all the impeachment talk. One question posed to him, "Can Trump run for president in 2020 if somehow, the Senate found him guilty?"
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
News broke right before the show, Kobe King quit the Badgers. Luckily, Badger Project managing editor Peter Cameron was on, to help break down his departure. Also talked with Cameron about his story on the BadgerProject.org about how Wisconsin is gerrymandered and now we need to depend on Republicans to do the right thing. Ha.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Parks and Rec. director Jay Odegaard stopped in, 10 months into the job. We talked Green Island Ice Arena, Trane Park, Riverside Park and a bunch of other stuff.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Heard right before the show La Crosse native Kobe King is unhappy with the Badgers and won't play in the game against Iowa. Rolled that into young professionals not happy with the state of Wisconsin and leave once they get a degree. Also, three people got stuck on some RR tracks in La Crosse and couldn't get their car off, eventually arrested for drugs and warrants. What?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
WIZM reporter Brad Williams kicked off the show talking about the Franciscan Sisters 24-hour prayer schedule. After that, WKTY's Grant Bilse and I discussed the Bucks and Michael Bloomberg ads destroying every commercial break during every game. Lastly, we talked about tax surprlus in Wisconsin and South Avenue ... from roundabouts to how nobody goes 40 on that stretch.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo political science professor, Dr. Keith Knutson, in studio, breaking down the impeachment. We talk state and national politics with Keith every Thursday, if you wanna get your opinion in.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked a bit about another weird DUI story. Someone else called 911 60 times over the weekend. But most of the show, we discussed how La Crosse needs to sell out. Rename everything — the La Crosse Center, Green Island Ice Arena, Losey Blvd.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit on the story on WIZMnews.com about a 27-year-old passed out at the wheel at a stoplights at 2:30 p.m. on a Saturday. Then hit on kicking old people out of church. Ended with nominees for La Crosse County board having their names taken off the ballot for various mistakes in filing their papers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked mostly about the idea that there is a dire need for "workers" in the U.S.. Work that doesn't require a college degree, but a two-year degree or on-job training. Is there still that "old school" thought that you have to go to college?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
From the Green Island ice arena to neighborhoods wanting to ban access to Grandad Bluff to No. 1 Central vs. No. 2 Onalaska to Wisconsin upping the punishment of unruly fans at youth sporting events ...
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Most of the show was about the $3 million Green Island needs to keep running. Eric from Sparta and Rick-hating Bob called in with their own agendas, which is always awkward. Also, a lime green puppy was just recently born.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tuesday, a guy was arrested at the Valley View Mall, after trying to steal some vehicles, while people were in them. Video also showed the mall cop not totally excited about going to stop him (who could blame the guy). Some texted in a conceal carry would have ended the incident. Rick begged to differ.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo's Keith Knutson joins in studio to enlighten us in how an impeachment trial will go when it heads to the Senate. We discussed the Clinton impeachment a bit and how majority rules when it comes to this stuff. Can it be both fair and politics?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked mainly about two things: 1. The good Samaritan shoveler, who comes around and does your driveway/sidewalk and you never learn who it is. Do you want to know? If it's you, do you secretly want others to know it is you? 2. La Crosse's 2040 city vision and how there won't be a need for parking ramps anymore. Bob also called in with conspiracy theory news and refused to understand how, if Democrats do something, it's bad, but if Republicans do it, it never happened.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brad Williams to start, talking about police in Illinois catching a La Crosse murder suspect. Grant Bilse from WKTY joined after that to talk Packers and why the Wisconsin government doesn't focus on things like legalizing marijuana and sports gambling. That conversation continued throughout the rest of the show.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Along with Vitrebo political science prof. Keith Knutson, the chair of the Democratic Party of Wisconsin, Ben Wikler joined the show to talk politics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Terry Bauer stopped in to talk about his candidacy for mayor of Onalaska.
Before and after that, we hit a bit on Iran.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked a bit about Mayor Tim Kabat's stop in studio the day before and how the new property tax assessments are affecting La Crosse. Also, city council member Gary Padesky called in, announced his run for County Board and talked about homeowners still with flooded basements.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat stopped in, talked about Wisconsin state legislation vs. local, La Crosse Center updates, city taxes, the roads and more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked mostly about the drone strike on an Iranian leader and spent a little time making fun of the Browns thinking about hiring Mike McCarthy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo political science professor Keith Knutson in studio. We kicked off the show talking about the voter purge in Wisconsin, then wrapped up on impeachment.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Continued with a list of things we may have forgotten in the past decade. Also went through Billboard's Top 10 songs of the decade, none of which I was into, which is a sign of age, right? And, capped off on some Star Wars and binge TV talk
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Picked Brad Williams' brain to start on the top local stories of the past decade. Got halfway through a list of fun/odd stories we may have forgotten about the in the 2010s. Republican Bob called, sad I don't talk more happy Republican news, and Rev. Jon called and said no need.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brad Williams in studio off the bat, to talk about the La Crosse woman who's evading police, despite having a 1-month old boy in need of medical attention. After that, International Owl director (or Czar) Karla Bloem talks all things owls. She also talked a bit about Kerrie Hauser, who was killed in a hit-and-run on Christmas Eve in Hokah. Hauser was a big time volunteer in the area.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about Wausau's lifting a ban on throwing snowballs (but keeping the ban on shooting people with arrows), as well as skitching (grabbing the bumper of car and skating down the road) and toboggan sled memories from Rick's college days at Stevens Point.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about the new sulfide copper-nickel mine going up near Minnesota's Boundary Waters, owned by a Chilean company. Brought WKTY's Grant Bilse on to talk Badgers volleyball in National Championship, plus Bucks-Lakers of course. Capped off the show arguing about minimum wage.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo political science professor, Dr. Keith Knutson in studio, talking Trump's impeachment, Ron Kind and Bucks-Lakers?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Asked ya'll to ruin Christmas in four words and got some great responses. Also talked a bit about Star Wars, as it's set to open Thursday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about the death of the box store, the rise of online shopping and how we're still good with leaving our packages on the doorstep for anyone to take. Also hit on the police ordinance that you can't leave your keys in your car. And, an impeachment rally at Cameron Park.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Couple people called in early, calling about tax bills they received in the mail today in La Crosse. Happy about that. Also got into Trump impeachment and did you know female reindeer have antlers?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Impeachment, investigating the investigators, according to the callers, it's all a witch hunt but that's now how Viterbo University political science professor Keith Knutson sees it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat joined and this is what we talked about: Climate, being in DC during the impeachment, La Crosse Center expansion groundbreaking on Friday the 13th during a full moon, and if he's going to do a sledgehammer photo op., La Crosse taxes coming soon, and building new firestations.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
I rant about my broken wash machine and jumping through warranty hoops.
After that, Brad Williams joined me to talk about La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat's hearing in DC on climate.
Lastly, right before the show, we got a hold of the UWL chancellor Joe Gow's latter about the art professor caught up in a sexual misconduct allegation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Always fun hoping my 1978 Wheel Horse snowblower starts. It did, eventually today. Also talked Mayor Tim Kabat at Climate Change committee meeting in DC, electric cars, the National Guard sexual misconduct resignation. Eric from Sparta called and brought up Red Flag laws for no reason and his interpretation of them is, well, incorrect.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Justin Bieber Christmas or Andy Williams? Aside from that, we talked about Wisconsin's new "fix the roads" commission and closed with La Crosse's ending Winter Rec Fest.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked a bit about those commercials with the 100 mph side effects -- like the Micro Machines guy back in the day. Also hit on UW-La Crosse's moving toward a new $49-million track/soccer facility.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked Obama, Hillary, oh and even Donald Trump and all that surrounds the impeachment with Viterbo University political science prof. Dr. Keith Knutson.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Yesterday it was Waukesha, today it was in Oshkosh, where police were forced to shoot a student. Sparta also had a gun scare. There have been eight incidences in Wisconsin over gun fears in schools the past three days.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A smooth back-and-forth transition from talking about Cyber Monday and the school shooting incident that happened in Wisconsin today. Do you feel these things are getting closer to home?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
With Black Friday trickling into Thanksgiving, and our state government passing things like lemonade stand legislation, perhaps it should do something more important, like help workers who have to leave family on a holiday to sell retail. Also, Eric from Sparta, the rare good call!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Police got a big check from 95.7 The Rock for over $15,000 to fund a new K9 officer. Police are also allowing you to pay for parking tickets with donations -- because they hit their budget? And Ron Johnson said some things about the impeachment.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayo dietitian Roni Londre joined us to talk about how we battle the holidays when it comes to eating and drinking.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The aftermath of talking about the Donald Trump impeachment inquiry.
But, also talked about how volleyball courts, not tennis courts, would suit La Crosse's needs, as the city looks to build on the south side. Giannis had another triple-double but not as sweet as Shaq's back in 1993. And, Gov. Tony Evers vetoed a bill that very much needed to be vetoed, dealing with violent sex offenders. Why are we trying to let them live closer to schools?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Political Science professor, Dr. Keith Knutson, in studio talking the Trump impeachment inquiry.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hit a bunch of topics: Bucks new "Cream City" jerseys, South Dakota's anti-drug campaign: "Meth, we're on it." ... Gov. Tony Evers not releasing emails, and the DNR asking deer hunters to shoot feral pigs (won't that scare away deer?), and the Wisconsin National Guard whistleblower being discharged for calling out sexual assaults.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Told a quick story about Pandas being shipped to China from the US and La Crosse's alternate-side parking ticket situation. But spent the rest of the show talking about health insurance, health care, and how we need to get to a place where nobody has to think about it. They just have to think about getting healthy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked mostly about the guy in La Crosse who called 911 and said to police, "“There is a bomb in your building. Every officer will die. You’re all dead,” La Crosse man told police on 911 call," and was arrested shortly thereafter.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse PD Sgt. Steve Pataska came in studio to talk everything surround a police K9. The La Crosse PD is adding a fifth K9 to its unit and being totally funded by 95.7 The Rock with the help of the community. You'll hear Steve and Brian Simpson with The Rock to open the show. If you want to help out, go to https://www.957therock.com/k9campaign/. You can meet the K9s Wednesday, Nov. 20 from 6-9 a.m. at the southside Walmart, La Crosse Menards or La Crosse Center.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo political science prof., Dr. Keith Knutson dropped by the studio to talk and take calls on the ongoing Donald Trump impeachment inquiry, that's now gone to the public.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Another story today, out of Minnesota, where school staff are publicly shaming students over lunch debt, sparked most of the conversation. Also mentioned how a group in La Crosse called the Beer By Bike Brigade, is fighting lunch debt here, and setting up a talk on Dec. 9 about child hunger.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
President of Firefighters Credit Union, Bruce Zmolek was nice enough to spend the hour with us. Along with some help to callers and advice to saving and getting out of debt, we hit on the three biggest problems people have with debt: 1. Student Loan Debt, 2. Credit Card debt, 3. Automobile debt.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayor Tim Kabat joined us. We talked the city capital budget, house assessments, picking up leaves vs. decorating downtown and the inability of our state government -- with its infighting -- to get things done, that city governments are held accountable for.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A free-for-all, sports Friday. Wrapping up HS football season, Rick told a story about the Klug brothers of Caledonia, as the school looks at win No. 66 in a row. Also, talked about the whistleblower in the Wisconsin National Guard possibly being discharged for calling out sexual assaults?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
While the Wisconsin state government is being rude to each other via party lines, a woman called in and said Rick was rude to Eric from Sparta. You be the judge. There is a whole show, however, talking about the petty politics Democrats and Republicans are waging against each other. How pathetic are they being?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Along with weather, leaf pickup, snow fines for not shoveling, also talked about how legislation in the state government only seems to be passing to punish citizens, instead of helping. More punishment for drunk drivers - check. More help for homeless? Nah. Oh, and the government feels the need to consider legislation to make CURSIVE mandatory in school.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent the first half of the show talking about the feud between the Wisconsin GOP and Gov. Tony Evers over the firing of La Crosse County native Brad Pfaff as ag secretary. Also got into, a bit, the story on WIZMNews.com about the city not putting up Christmas decorations.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent most of the show on going back to "standard time" and it being dark out when you go to work and when you come home. Also, talked about the murder that happened in La Crosse on Saturday night.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We went from breaking down the HS football playoff picture to the aftermath of having a left-leaning political scientist on yesterday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo political scientist joined a raging debate on issues surrounding a potential impeachment of President Donald Trump.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We kick off the show with Brad Williams' update on the Eric Sackett murder trail. After that, we talked how Coors is laying off workers because of a decline in beer sales. Why would that be? And, also, Wisconsin GOP Assembly leader Robin Vos says climate change is "probably" real but a task force about it is politics. Huh?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Common Cause Wisconsin's Jay Heck enlightens us on how North Carolina judges have ordered Republicans to redraw legislative maps might impact Wisconsin. Before that, however, Brad Williams stopped by to give a Day 7 Eric Sackett murder trial update.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sprinkled into the Erik Sackett murder trial talk, where multiple people called and texted in their thoughts, Rick talks about strange jobs he had growing up (as did Main Street guy and No. 3).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked about the Bucks season-opener a bit and how spoiled we are in Wisconsin to have some of the best of the best on every team (Rodgers, Giannis, Yelich, Taylor). Also talked about a La Crosse museum -- where should it go, what should go in it. And, again, we discussed why the La Crosse County Board should give itself a big raise.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We're gonna burn out Brad Williams. He's been covering the Erik Sackett murder trial all week. Update there, as well as the County Board Executive Committee meeting on giving the board big raises. Rick also shared another adventure of "Rick and Mom tackle a big house project and try not to destroy everything."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Longtime La Crosse County Board member Ralph Geary joined me right off the bat to talk about a resolution he didn't know about, where a board executive committee will vote on giving its self about a 100% raise. Also, Brad Williams updated us on the Eric Sackett murder trial in town.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayo Clinic dietician Romi Londres joined me in studio to talk about the new BK "Impossible" Whopper, if it's healthier than a regular Whopper. We also hit on a number of other things from diet fads, to healthier options for fake meat and whether milk, coffee and eggs are good for you.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After Brad updates us on the Erik Sackett murder trial, we talk how the government is gonna take our guns and then we won't be able to overthrow it. Or something like that.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talked a lot about the video on WIZMnews.com, showing what a new La Crosse Center might look like after its $42 million renovations. Eric from Sparta called in. It was awkward and sad. Tremp. Tom called in and said something about Donald Trump, the best ever, and "common sense" leadership ... that too was awkward to hear.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wisconsin's state legislature meets just a few times a year but is paid like a full-time legislative body. Talking with @TheBadgerProject managing editor Peter Cameron about his story on Wisconsin's state government. Find his story here: https://thebadgerproject.org/2019/09/16/full-time-lite/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Spent the first half of the show talking about a 57-year-old Onalaska man arrested for his 9th OWI and how to solve drunk driving, alcoholism. The second half of the show, talked about the $42-million La Crosse Center expansion (open house Oct. 17), as well as voters being purged in Wisconsin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A whirlwind of topics today. Did you see the pics from the truck that jumped into the roof of a house? Or the story of a S. Florida dog lost in 2007 and found on Monday? We hit that, the GOP curtailing Gov. Evers' veto powers, UW-Madison and sexual assault, Hmong, Lau vets hopefully getting veteran benefits. Phew.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Should we erase Columbus Day from our calendars across the U.S.?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick shares his tragic HS football career. Drew updates us on the final two weeks of WIAA football's regular season for the MVC. Eric from Sparta calls in, talks of how he hates the show, signs off, "I appreciate the show."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
He's been on the job about two weeks. We hit everything from body cams, police shootings to the judges and, of course, Hatched Baby.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Right away, WIZM's Brad Williams updates on Ronald Crosby Jr. in court Wednesday. Then, WKTY's morning show host, David Carney, joins to talk the China-NBA controversy, but we really get into the meaning of the word Communism vs. Authoritarianism, free speech, tariffs and human rights. Not to mention video games and South Park. What?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Longfellow stop sign controversy carries the show. Amtrak going to buses. Wisconsin state government was busy passing odd things. Trump fights with Minneapolis on upfront security costs.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat stopped into the studio. Along with candy, we covered a lot of ground -- "Fix the roads," being one of them. Also hit on the La Crosse Center, leaf pickup, the $1 an hour parking program and more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Had a good call from Darrin to kick off the show, talking about the rule of law and how no "side" should be able to skate by the rules we have in place.
Another caller vented about my bias, and I vented about Eric from Sparta -- show "favorite." Had about 3 minutes of Vikings Diggs talk.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo University political scientist Keith Knutson joined in studio to talk about President Donald Trump's impeachment inquiry and, of course all of Joe Biden's scandals.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The 20-year-old in the Bar Stool video calls in to talk about his 15 minutes of fame for getting an underage, then having La Crosse Oktoberfesters hand him money as the cop hands him a ticket.
VIDEO: https://www.instagram.com/p/B3Ff-OgAyYh/ Also, my friend Antoine posed this question: "If you're walking your dog, and you pickup the dog dookie with a plastic bag, is it fair game to dispose of said dog dookie bag in a neighbor's garbage bin if it's garbage day? Would you care if someone put a plastic dog dookie bag in your garbage bin?"
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking about a raccoon I found earlier in the day, that appeared injured. Will have an update tomorrow. Brad Williams joined to give a La Crosse Center update. Wrapped up the show talking about the man who sucker-punched a worker at 4 a.m. on Sunday at Rudy's.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Police and ambulance numbers from Oktoberfest. Didn't seem that bad but what's the comparison? Weather: Record heat, record tornadoes, record river stage ... Lastly, a prelude to the review of Rambo Last Blood and looking ahead to Thursday's JOKER theater debut.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Recapping the governor's quick visit to La Crosse. I don't get parades. And a little Sports Friday to close it up.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Governor Tony Evers called in to talk beer, Packers, Brewers and being the only Mayor Brad Williams can recall, being in town for La Crosse Oktoberfest since the 60s. He (Evers, not Brad) proclaimed today Wisconsin Craft Brewery day from the festgrounds. Todd Wiedenhaft, owner of Skeleton Crew Brew, called in to update us on Craft Brew Night at the festgrounds. Oh, and the La Crosse PD named a new police chief. We talked to PFC Doug Happel on that. PHEW.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
More impeachment talk? Ugh. How about we just talk about Newman and Kramer playing Risk on the subway, and enraging a Ukrainian, because that's all Newman had left on his board.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The House is going ahead with an impeachment inquiry into Donald Trump. So we talked about Hillary's emails, the Obama administration's corruption, Joe Biden's son, Cass Street bumpouts, and Gov. Tony Evers drinking beer (possibly) at the Oktoberfest grounds.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
They're remaking The Princess Bride? That, and some of the worst remakes in history.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Aside from trying to figure out where (or when) to draw the line with black face as inappropriate, and things as kids we did that were highly inappropriate but had no idea because we were kids, we also talked about these little female soldiers they're making now.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fix the roads. Fix the La Crosse Center. Fix everything. Except, can we un-fix Exit 3 and get that $16 million back for a couple of stop lights?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Started the show talking about robo calls, but then got word the La Crosse F.D. was amazed by life-saving measures someone performed on the south side. When they went to thank the man, he was gone. LaX F.D. Captain Lance Tryggestad came on to discuss what happened (19:20).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
After ranting about the Middle East (WHY GOD WHY?), No. 3 called in with, what turned out to be fake news about the city of La Crosse hiring a consultant for the north side fire department. That got city councilman Gary Padesky to text in, "WHAT?" and then city Fire Chief Ken Gilliam had to call and put the news to rest.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Also, Animal Fact of the Day on Ollie, the Australian Tree Frog that hibernates in a tiny rain gauge.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mid-West Family Broadcasting and WIZM legend Dick Record has been in the news game since the 1960s. He talks about his time as a journalists -- covering the Vietnam War protests in Madison, while being tear gassed -- art in La Crosse (he loves Blue Baby) and we took some calls.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Lisa Leslie is headed to La Crosse. Check the WIZM website for info. ... Started the show talking about men and old cars and the funny scene Rick saw before the show. ... Then WKTY's Grant Bilse joined to talk about vaping. Also quizzed Grant on, as a college student that's not too political, his listening to Bernie Sanders in an extended, informal interview and being moved by his message.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo's Keith Knutson joined us to talk Trump losing his 47th high-profile administration official, a special election in N.C. and how that relates to one coming up in Wisconsin. We also hit on gerrymandering and Constitution Day at Viterbo.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Did you miss seeing the movie Hobbs and Shaw in the theater? So did I. WHY IS IT GONE? ... A couple calls/texts were mad at LaX Talk PM troll Eric from Sparta last week dissing my guests. ... Lastly, we talked about the WHITE CLAW shortage and a quick animal fact of the day, before cutting off the aforementioned Eric at the end of the hour.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Heart of La Crosse will be at the Pump House each Friday and Saturday at 7:30 p.m. through Sept. 21.
In the second half of the hour, they're joined by Eric from Sparta. It was special.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Doug Happel joined us right off the bat to update us on the new police chief, fire station and other items on the agenda for a finance committee meeting tonight.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A call came in Wed. afternoon from a person who said they shot two people in a house on the in the 400 block of S. 19th Street in La Crosse.
Details from police were scarce but what they did have doesn't quite add up to what the call said.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
River Travel Magazine’s founder Brent Hanifil joined us to talk about the Best of the River survey. Over 50 categories. La Crosse attractions were Top 5 in 20 of them.
After that, talked a bit about Walmart stopping the sale of certain ammunition and the Animal Fact of the Day -- Alligators. Oh, and Eric from Sparta had an epic gun rant.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We learned Rick made Depends diapers as a summer job in college.
-Would you feel strange driving around in a brand new car vs. some old hot rod?
In the bottom half of the hour, we talked about the Riverside Park bandstand coming together, as well as Trump's takes on Cat-5 hurricanes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
WKTY's Grant Bilse for a segment called "Through the Wall," to hit on Central-Logan football, as well as the Packers, Badgers and a bit of Brewers.
Caller also brought up a school in La Crosse IDing adults who come to watch extra-curricular actives, to see if they're on a registered sex offenders list.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
First, I was changing in a public locker room next to a guy cutting his fingernails and leaving them on the floor.
Also, can we use dashcams to citizen police lawbreakers?
Lastly, we got a quick text from La Crosse police's Rob Abrham on the dude who shot a cop in town and was initially charged with 2nd degree reckless endangerment. That seemed odd.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What's worse than falling into your septic tank, trapped up to your neck -- as happened to an Oregon lady -- for three days?
What's up with vaping? They're changing the age on this stuff.
Brad drops in and updates us on a couple of murder trials in La Crosse.
Also, someone called to "speak to the owner of (my) show."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We listen to the body cam video from the Aug. 3 police shooting in La Crosse, where both Allen Kruk and officer Dustin Darling were shot.
Also, animal fact of the day: BEES.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat co-hosted. We talked his Top 3 movies of all-time, the La Crosse Center, took some calls/texts and how the hiring is going for the La Crosse Police Chief.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We bring on Grant Bilse, of the Wisco Sports show on WKTY and talk multi-sport athletes ... in the midst of a computer failure.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You'll see on WIZMnews.com the La Crosse police got three in a July shooting. Also, talked about the EPA backtracking -- for now -- on using cyanide bombs, as well as Bernie Sanders' $16.3 trillion climate plan.
Lastly, of course, the Animal Fact of the Day, dealing with another WIZMnews.com story on a snake being left at TSA boarding. Pretty weird.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Did you know the Amazon rainforest is burning? Not many did until about a few days ago, but it's been going on for over two weeks.
Also, La Crescent Police Chief Doug Stavenau talks about how they've enforced Minnesota's new cellphone-driving law.
Plus, the Animal Fact of the Day.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Interim chief Rob Abraham took his name out of the running, so who will be La Crosse's next chief of police? We talked to one of the five members of the La Crosse Police and Fire Commission, which is in charge of the hiring process, and asked him where we're at, what's next, how many have applied and how long it'll take.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's been open since Aug. 2 but Veterans Memorial Pool will have a grand opening Aug. 27. Jacob Siammus, the chair of the volunteer community group helping to fund the pool, joined Rick Solem to talk about the road to the re-opening.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Gonna try and make Fridays hover around sports a bit. This episode, though, was mostly about the La Crosse Center ... where I wish the Bucks had a G-League team playing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked to the Wisconsin DNR's Shawn Giblin about an algae that seems to be killing dogs and harming people who swim in lakes and ponds.
-Also, Doug Weidenbach on the La Crosse County board discussed funding the $42-million Center expansion project.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Leave it to 70-year-old Iowa Congressman Steve King to try and defend rape and incest when it comes to abortion. ... Dogs are dying because of poisonous algae. ... Did you see a 16-year-old won $3 million playing Fortnite? ... And, your daily "animal fact of the day."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
-Rick discusses his too long a vacation.
-Someone in La Crosse won a $1 million and Dave called in and managed to make that a bad thing.
-Guns. Then we talked "gun control." Or "mental health" control. Because it's not the guns, apparently.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick Solem introduces himself as the full-time host of La Cross Talk PM and tries to crowd source ideas for doing the show.
Who would you like to see as guests? What kind of topics? Is there a thing as too much Trump talk?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Is the Green Island Ice Arena getting torn down for tennis courts? Rick Ruins everything. And why is Donald Trump blocking people on Twitter. The courts have ruled on whether he can or not.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We may have found the Blue Baby's father ... or mother -- Blue Rooster. Also, should the US women's soccer team be paid the same as the men?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We saved a duck and her six ducklings. Rick gives the play by play, as the humane society comes downtown to save a duck who put her nest in a planter outside our studio. Also, fireworks stories - some funny, some not so much.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dave rips on Rick and then plays word association with WIZM's newest Ag reporter, Kaitlyn Riley.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Pope weighs in on whether priests should divulge information from confessions if it has to do with harming others.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Maier taking calls on the local issues.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How impactful is a picture? Do you care if one side or the other in political power gets to draw the legislative maps or are you into having it be nonpartisan?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick is joined with Mid-West Family Broadcasting's newest edition, Kaitlyn Riley.
She talks about her life growing up on a farm, her time as "Alice in Dairyland" for the state of Wisconsin, and what she'll be doing over with Phil Costigan on KQ98, as well as here on WIZM.
Oh, and we also introduced her to some clips from somewhat regular callers: Eric from Sparta and Mary.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Along with talking about how happy you are with "home" whether that's literally your home, your state or your country, he and Rick talk about getting old -- how you can't eat anything, and the deterioration of our ability to play sports.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike hates on Alexandria Occasio-Cortez. He claims he saw someone kicked out of a restaurant who was wearing an AOC t-shirt.
Meddling in elections. Should we be OK with other countries meddling in our elections, simply because the US meddles in other countries' elections?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike's views of social media's good and bad. Also, near the end of the hour, a discussion on the lame duck lawsuits upheld by the Wisconsin Supreme Court.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Social media, Mike's good and bad. Also, Mary hates on Rick and debating Tremp. Tom on the lame-duck sessions Republicans used to change the rules in Wisconsin.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Willie Nelson talk. Did you know, along with his starring role on the "new" Dukes of Hazard movie, he was also a singer?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
There's a great story about how Sea Otters eat lumped into how plastics are destroying the earth, which should be a problem. It's not. Why aren't these things problems we worry about?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Did we genetically create "puppy dog eyes?" A study says we did.
Then we got sidetracked by animals and turtles crossing the streets now and how to help a snapping turtle cross the road without losing a limb.
Also, we tried tried to talk about how kids in the U.S. aren't the best educated and that's not good for the future of the U.S.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hayes and Rick talk a little about their dads. Then funding for things like the La Crosse Center and how it gets paid for.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike is joined by Luke Marcou of Skyline Fireworks in Holmen.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Trump said the thing in his head, out loud again in another game of "Let's normalize the abnormal." Viterbo's Keith Knutson, who teachers political science, comes on to help explain that this isn't right.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talking about your pets. And Rick's pets. Also, the roads are being fixed, so let's complain about road construction.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talking the Mueller Report with Viterbo University political scientist Keith Knutson.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mexican tariffs are going to increase the cost of your JEANS. Also, people aren't moving anymore, for various reasons -- like financial instability but also to stay close to family.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Life without pizza? Maier defends Monsanto.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
State track is coming.
Do you go to the doctor? An interview with Grant Golson and the Penguin Project at the La Crosse Community Theatre.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
No, Rick wasn't faking sick. Should the GOP and DNC work together? No? What?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dave running solo on the day after Memorial Day
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Paying for parking ... Bucks venting ... investing in our children ...
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Bucks lost. Ben Carson doesn't know what an REO is. And apparently automatic voter registration is a bad thing (but not to Rick).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crescent is opening up a new "La Crosse Area Events Center." Will it compete with the La Crosse Center? Do we need $42 million to expand convention space or should that money on the La Crosse Center be used to make it more unique?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bring on solar farms and wind farms ... unless it's in my backyard?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talking about paying for parking on the streets of La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dave wants advice about getting a phone call from faculty, after his kid got into trouble while on a school trip to D.C.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Hayes Monday ... fix the roads, build a pool ...
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We solve the United States' health care problem.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick is joined by Viterbo political scientist, Keith Knutson --- talking Wisconsin gerrymandering and the Mueller Report.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Free-for-all Friday -- Bugs, La Crosse Center ...
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Parenting. Guns. Political correctness.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Legalizing pot, killing medicaid expansion and the city is getting into the carwash business.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Joined by entomologist Dr. Ted Wilson, talking the bug apocalypse, creating a native habitat ... and other things BUGS.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
How to fix the nation's roads and bridge ... and a new car wash at the La Crosse airport ...
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Free-for-all Monday. Hayes has 8 topics, including legalizing marijuana.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Legalizing sports gambling ... and leaf collection.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick Solem is joined by Heath and Melissa Riniker, as well as veterans Dave Larsen and Jeff Mills to talk about the July 20 reunion of the 32nd Engineers National Guard unit out of Onalaska.
Story here: https://www.wizmnews.com/2019/04/29/32nd-engineers-national-guard-unit-of-onalaska-needs-help-for-huge-july-reunion/
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse property tax assessments have people worried.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Free-for-all Monday. Smoking in the park. Elizabeth Warren's plan to eliminate student loan debt.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The redacted Mueller Report has been released.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick Solem is joined by Viterbo political science professor Keith Knutson, talking politics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Money, money, money -- retirement, national debt ...
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
At one point we talked about pork butts with Main Street guy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ken Cooper hosts, talking about the first ever picture of a Black Hole. We also hit on a number of other topics, from homelessness to the weather.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick Solem hosts in the midst of an April blizzard.
Dirk and Wade played their respective last home games. Who is the Wisconsin athlete whose final game you would want to see -- past or present?
Also, the Wisconsin GOP and Dem. Gov. Tony Evers are still fighting about appointees. Why?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dave Carney hosts, talking about how states or the fed should handle the minimum wage. Should it be $15 across the country? Some states that's a good living. Other states, not so much.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo criminal and sociology professor Ryan Anderson joined host Rick Solem to talk about giving undocumented immigrants driver's licenses, as Wisconsin and Minnesota have proposed. Twelve states already do it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Maier hosts, trying to fire up the left, the right and the middle.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ken Cooper hosts, talking climate change.
In the second half, Tracey Ballzer of Heart of La Crosse joined us to talk improv.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick Solem hosts, talking the Wisconsin Supreme Court election results. One caller says only conservatives uphold the Constitution. Mike McCarthy is still mad at the Packers, Jordy Nelson wants to come back and American Airlines is removing one olive from trays in first class -- and will save $40,000 a year in doing so. WHY HAVE OLIVES?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you set for retirement? Dave Carney hosts, and where people are at with their retirement.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick Solem is joined by Viterbo's Keith Knutson, who discusses the gerrymandering question on the April 2 ballot in La Crosse County and the legislative map issue across the county.
He also talks about how a professor teaches in this political atmosphere.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dave Carney hosts, talking how da gorrment be terkin' yer guns! Also, Carney's got a real beef with Gov. Tony Evers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The League of Women Voters - Wisconsin executive director Erin Grunze joins Mike Hayes to tell us how the state needs stronger recusal rules for judges at all levels, who receive campaign contributions.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Maier hosts, talking about how John McCain was not a war hero -- quite the opposite, he believes.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ken Cooper hosts, and Viterbo's Richard Kyte joins us to talk about ethics and the Auschwitz Concentration Camp survivor that spoke at the university later that night.
And, the Florida Man Challenge.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Blue Jean Nation founder Mike McCabe joined Rick Solem, talking about the biggest problem with government today: Big Money. As citizens fight to get money out of politics, a more immediate solution would be to end gerrymandering, as the political lines are about to get re-drawn across the nation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dave Carney discusses Elizabeth Warren's idea of getting rid of the electoral college.
Also, where are we with free speech, when the president calls to investigate Saturday Night Live after is showed a repeat last weekend that made fun of the president -- as SNL typically does with most presidents.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Hayes in talking down the Green New Deal, the effectiveness of electric cars and climate change.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Hayes is in, flooding, Green New Deal, weather-proof infrastructure and electric cars.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick Solem talks about the past and present female roles in comic book and sci-fi movies. Brad Williams joined early to talk about the 60s-80s, when he was into that stuff.
The second half hour, Rick talks about the new Captain Marvel movie -- so "spoiler alert" is probably necessary.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ken Cooper hosts, talking a little of everything from building a wall to fixing the roads. Shouldn't we just take the wall money and fix the roads?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dave Carney on a Tuesday wondering if you're ready for millennials to take over, since they're getting to be that age.
Also, Minnesota tables legalizing medical marijuana. Why?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Hayes Mondays with fixing the roads and removing the snow.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Maier hosts. If honey bees disappear, is the world doomed? Also, are GMOs that bad? And what causes autism?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ken Cooper hosting, talking about how you spend your vacations.
Also, the Are You Smarter Than A Fifth Grader clan was in, and a couple of students quizzed Rick Solem.
We also talked about the HR-1 bill going through the US House.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Viterbo professors, Dr. Ryan Anderson (criminal justice, sociology) and Dr. Eric Weinberg (history, computer science) joined Rick Solem in studio to discuss whether La Crosse Police's downtown cameras (CCTV) deter crime.
Before that, however, we brought up whether public libraries should have a bar in them and if phones have made people more or less social.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dave Carney hosting, and talking about whether or not your state and federal governments represent you.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Talking fundraisers. Did you go to the Mac and Cheese fest? Also discussing carbon footprint, fossil fuels and more.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Maier hosting this free-for-all Friday, talking transgender and using public bathrooms, along with undocumented immigrants getting licenses.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Wisconsin governor wants to make the drawing of legislative district lines bipartisan -- or nonpartisan. Rick Solem brought in Wisconsin Common Cause's Jay Heck and Republican Party Chair Bill Feehan to argue about that, and whether Wisconsin is a gerrymandered state.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Should the government require you to be vaccinated?
Dave Carney discussed that and other issues surrounding vaccines. The president of the National Vaccine Information Center also talked about the issue of government and pharmaceutical accountability when it comes to vaccines.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Hayes Mondays, talking taxes, tax returns and how it's your fault if you didn't get what you expected to get.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Maier in for a free-for-all Friday on the precursor to rainy, icy snowstorm of weekend.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Matt Harter joined Ken Cooper to talk recycling and talk he did.
Keith Carr came on later to talk movies. And Jim Warsinske talked a little improve.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dave Carney talks of a society with autonomous vehicles.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Hayes talks border security and building a wall, raising the minimum wage, e-cigs, among other things.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ken Cooper and Rick Solem talk about their terrible Valentine's Day plans -- both past and present.
It was also the one-year remembrance of the Parkland shooting.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick Solem talks with Mayor Tim Kabat about everything from his Valentine's Day plans, to how he got to be mayor, along with Gillette Street and snow "emergencies."
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dave Carney dives deep into the good and bad of a cashless society.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Hayes talks about a host of things in politics.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike M. in, talks about media honesty, a ban on hunting competitions in Wisconsin and how to fix the roads (a tollway?).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Now individual neighborhoods are going to charge for parking?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
They're discussing an Public Market in La Crosse. Where should it go?
Also talk of putting up apartments along Hwy. 16. Will it really make traffic that much worse? Wait, is traffic even worth complaining about in La Crosse?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike talks how he fell on his "ace." The Super Bowl halftime show was ... ? La Crosse School District is gonna buy the Brickhouse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Ken Gilliam joined us to talk about the fire Wed. night in -30 degree weather.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Hayes talk about building a wall. Not just any wall. The wall that is a giant issue now, but wasn't the first two years Republicans held all three branches of the government.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Of the things Mike and Rick discuss, were the nonstop arguing of building a wall and creative ways to have term limits - like an opt-out clause.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What to do with Bridgeview Plaza. What to do with the mall.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
American Family Insurance bought the rights to "Miller Park." And we talked other stuff.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mike Maier spent the first half the hour talking about medical marijuana. We brought Brad Williams in for a bit to talk Smiley Face Killer in the second half of the hour.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Rick Solem talked with Jim Flottmeyer, the city's parking utility coordinator, mostly about the program to charge for parking on the streest near UW-La Crosse and WTC.
Mike Hayes and Solem discussed it the second half of the show with callers.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Did Tony Evers win the governorship because of marijuana?
Also, we make fun of people trying to make points via terrible talk to texts!
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
David and Rick discuss a couple of things:
- Have you already failed at your New Year's resolution?
- Will Tony Evers do a good job?
- Partisan government. Not sure if we solved the issue, but probably.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mitch Reynolds signs off from WIZM's La Crosse Talk PM with family and friends on New Year's Eve.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jen Barney, who won another Food Network bakeoff joined us right away.
After that, Hayes talks about the paid on-street parking plan coming to La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Asst. Police Chief Rob Abraham and Mitch talk about the good ole days.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
This is Mitch's third-to-last show. Some people called in to tell him get out of town.
We talked with Mt. La Crosse's Darcie Breidel about making beer flakes in the snow machine (also on the podcast list as a standalone interview).
And, we played what Judge Ramona Gonzalez had to say in court Friday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Instead of making snow flakes ... how about beer flakes, Darcie?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mitch makes a big announcement.
Also, a guy got out of jail on a lowered bond and, four hours later, he was back in jail.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The paid, on-street parking plan by UWL and WTC.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mitch talks about a federal judge's decision to throw out the entire Affordable Care Act because of one provision in the law.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
They fixed the roads. Well, the one called Cass Street. But bumpouts and zig-zagging bike lanes aren't quite the answer. But there's another dilemma by Longfellow Middle School. Students say drivers aren't paying attention and blowing by the area willy nilly. Stop signs, bump-outs, speed bumps? What's the fix?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We started talking about leaf pickup and that kind of led to farming, and Ron Kind's decision not to support the farm bill, which Mitch agreed with.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Does a woman who got six DUIs between 1989-2002, then her seventh in 2018 deserve to go to jail?
Meanwhile, the incoming governor, Tony Evers, has talked of prison reform, as Wisconsin has 23,000 people in prison to Minnesota's 10,000.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mitch witnesses driver not pulling over for fire truck. Fire truck driver calls in with his accounts of similar situations.
We also talked Mindoro, Wis., cuisine.
And, near the end, we play the Trump-Pelosi-Schumer sound and discuss its ridiculousness.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In the first hour, Mayor Tim Kabat stopped in to talk about all things La Crosse ... and Wisconsin. He was joined right away with Lt. Gov.-elect Mandela Barnes.
In the second hour, we talk more on Cass Street, parking, Number 3 working as a 6 year old -- and driving for work at 9.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A texter said the two are insulting and pathetic. We weren't sure if these were nicknames. Like, Rick is pathetic and Mitch is insulting. The Insulting and Pathetic Show staring Mitch and Rick.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Icy sidewalks after a snow will get you a hefty bill from the city. Or maybe a scheming neighbor, who ratted you out to the city.
Along with that, we, again, discussed how hard the Wisconsin GOP was also schemin...working for the people deep into the night and early morning. For us. The people.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Biking on Cass Street in the winter is even more fun than in summer.
The La Crosse Center is ready to pick a plan for its $42 million expansion.
And, walking the line on the lame duck session put forth by Wisconsin's GOP
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We had a couple guests on. One, a hockey player that experienced the earthquake in Alaska. Also, a UW doctor that's helping create the electric band-aid.
After that, a free for all.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked about a slew of topics. The bike report coming out next month. Eau Claire lowering first-time marijuana charges to $1 and the giant home Dave and Barb Erickson want to donate to veterans.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
More news on Joe Gow's dirty little secret of having a porn start talk on campus. OK, it wasn't a secret but it wasn't super publicized, and therein seems to lie the problem, as the UW System president has come down on Gow to a degree -- WITH A LETTER.
What we would like to know, is how this went over at the Gow family dinner table. #Sarcasm
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked to Julie McDermid with the La Crosse Collaborative to End Homelessness right off the bat and discussed that issue the first hour.
In the second hour, we disccussed how half of students in the La Crosse School Distrcit are eligible for free or reduced school meals.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We dedicated an entire show, not just to Thanksgiving leftovvers, but mainly the Mitch and Rick's differenciating opinion on whether green bean casserole is good.
There was also some Packers talk, as everyone begins to jump off the bandwagon.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We took a grim look at Thanksgiving, a day before the holiday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We heard of some good ways and not so positive ways to help the homeless.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Are you outraged about La Crosse's pilot program to charge for parking around UW-La Crosse and Western Tech?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Amongst the things discussed, was the photo of the Baraboo HS kids doing a group "Sieg Heil" photo before prom last spring.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A Hortonville business, where Rick went to high school, gave its employees guns for Christmas.
After a productive conversation about that, we discussed what roles city workers would have as Star Wars characters.Rob Abraham as Darth Vader? Who's Emperor Palpatine/Darth Sidious?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Callers picked the topics. We hit roads quite a bit.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
First half hovers around the new govenor in Wisconsin. Second half is about the mass shooting and veterans.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked about voting and the La Crosse County road-funding referendum questions.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
What's your go-to food? For Mitch, it's fried chicken. Popeye's to be specific.
Aside from that, there was a lot of talk about the Cass Street update, which does not have bicyclists happy.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talk about the new Cass Street, parking and so much more in the first hour with La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat. We re-hash some of that in the second hour along with the midterm elections coming up. Eric from Sparta also made an appearance.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mitch and Johnson talk about the advisory referendums on the ballot Tuesday about funding roads and legalizing marijuana.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Karla Bloem joined us to talk about Alice the Great Horned Owl's retirement on Saturday at the International Owl Center in Houston, Minn.
Bloem tells a great story of Alice, who she has had since she was 1.5 years old.
Alice fell out of her nest and was permanently injured at 3.5 weeks old and has been a working owl ever since, educating the public on owl conservation.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked about bike paths and bump outs and the completion, now, of Cass Street.
Also, a great interview with Karla Bloem, at the International Owl Center in Houston, Minn., where they are hosting Alice the Great Horned Owl's retirement party on Saturday from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. (This interview is also a separate podcast).
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Along with the all-important discussion as to what's the worst Halloween candy, we also had La Crosse Republican Party Chair Bill Feehan in studio. We talked county road-funding referendums and who Feehan thinks will win at the ballot Tuesday.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The city is adopting paid-street parking around UW-La Crosse and WTC. Not everybody's happy. And, is it a sign that all of La Crosse could be paid-street parking at some point?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bucks basketball, Caledonia football, the police asking for help finding the person who threw hundreds of syringes in a dumpster, state money to businesses like Foxconn and Kimberly-Clark and Gov. Walker's stop in Brice Prairie canvassing.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked with Phil Anderson, the Libertarian candidate for Wisconsin governor, about a myriad of issues, including sports gambling. After that, the mail bomber being captured and how that foiled Republican's storyline that it was gonna be a Democratic plot.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked about the fake bombs going to prominent Democrats and others -- one caller said it was a left-wing plot, because of course. When does the 2020 presidential campaigning start? Soon. Also, legalizing marijuana, on the La Crosse County referendum.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We try to solve the orgins of the name bubbler and whether it should be called that or a water fountain.
We also talked about leaf ettiquite when it comes to the city picking them up for you.
Lastly, we hit on the low unemployment rate and the plethora of jobs out there for those who don't have one.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked to Don, who had someone come and throw hundreds of needles into his dumpster. So, we talked needles. And, Mitch reiterated how you shouldn't buy lottery tickets after $5 million -- it'll ruin your life.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mitch rants about his hatred for seeing other drivers out there texting. We also talked about La Crosse parks dept. spending, as well as the Trump administrations new stance on gender.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked to Phil Anderson, libertarian candidate for Wisconsin governor and how unfair it is he is barred from tonight's debate.
In the second hour, Mitch discussed why it would ruin your life to win a billion dollars.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
First segment, we talked with West Salem schools superintendent Troy Gunderson. After that, Ron Johnson on health care, immigration and Kavanaugh. In the second hour, more health care and judge Gloria Doyle's comments.
No Bucks. No Brewers. No Packers talk. None.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Politicians drinking in Wisconsin. Buthering metaphors -- glass houses and stone throwing, to be exact. The idea that weed is more addictive than meth, as Leah Vukmir has said.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked with Onalaska schools superintendent Fran Finco in the first segment. And mostly marijuana legalization in Wisconsin after that.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We talked about hitting a deer, protesting a parking ticket with the city of La Crosse and the second hour was a mix of that and in-person, absentee voting.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We hit the Brewers in the NLCS and some Packers before trying to decipher what was that Trump-Kanye meeting.
People alsl called in on referendums, Kanye, Indigenous Peopels Day. Kanye, Memorial Pool, Kanye, Marijuana, Kanye.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayor Tim Kabat in studio, as we made him give us his NFL picks for Sunday. He was awful, just awful, last month. We also talked with him about mayor stuff. In the second hour, we talk about a city-wide minimum wage, the Packers, the Brewers and Ed Sheeran.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We open with a little bit about the nuisance that is Asian beetles and that conversation continues on and off throughout, along with what to do about health care and the Holmen school referendum. There are some great Eric from Sparta rants.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The city of La Crosse recognized Indigenous Peoples Day today, taking Columbus Day off the calendars.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We spent the first segment talking to Tom Berkedal with Coulee Region Voices of Men. After that, free-for-all, including Indigenous Peoples Day coming Monday in La Crosse.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Show kicks off with Minneosta Republican governor nominee Jeff Johnson. Then we took calls from women only on the confirmation of Brett Kavanaugh -- mainly because, in the past, those who have called in have been mostly men. Also discussed ICE arresting people in Arcadia, Wis.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An odd juxtaposition between a booming economy and increasing numbers of food pantry users. We look for explanations
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Decision to eliminate one of La Crosse's largest parks gets mixed reaction
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Police react in frustration to sentencing of drug dealer
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Without corroboration, how should we evaluate assault claims?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Re: Kavanaugh accusations. How far back is too far back to evaluate an adult's character?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
That one time Mitch allegedly wasn't professional.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wheel tax, global climate change and weekend NFL picks. Plenty of fun with mayor Tim Kabat
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Educational flyers on the way. Words that describe county referendums will matter
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
First day of confirmation hearings for Kavanaugh. Wheel tax delay
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sen. Ron Johnson on NAFTA, McCain and his view on climate change impact on severe weather. But is there an impact?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Flooding devastating for some communities. A look from Coon Valley and Red Cross says don't go baking no casserole
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We run our own public info session which is much better attended than the mayor's
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We consider the government's role in assisting large businesses prolong their obsolescence
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Murder of missing Mollie Tibbetts and illegal immigration. Developments with Manafort and Cohen
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Turns out some of that plastic they were never recycling anyway
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The rebirth of the Hoeschler fountain. Statues. Parades.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Number one enemy of the people spouts off about ridiculous nonsense. Also fields call from homeless woman living in her car
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse assistant police chief Rob Abraham makes a monthly visit reminds us to wear helmets, seatbelts
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Two guys running for governor in Wisconsin as Republicans. One of them is named Walker.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mandela Barnes stops in during campaign stop in La Crosse. Wheel tax debate continues
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse county GOP chair Bill Feehan throws his support behind city wheel tax.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse mayor Tim Kabat suggests wheel tax for funding roads
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Diversity and the negative associations some have with the very concept.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fire chief Ken Gilliam "Casual Ken" swings by, talks fire stations, brags about his bench max
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Can anyone really resent boathouse owners for their own little slice of heaven
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Plans are in the works to move the big Chief Hiawatha statue from La Crosse's Riverside Park
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Callers evaluate Mitch's son's interaction with police while openly carrying a gun.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Dentist, author and native son David Gundersen talks about his new children's book that isn't. A strapped offspring stops by and gets a good talking to
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bandstand, marijuana, boathouses, bad intent. You know, the typical show.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse police assistant police chief Rob Abraham. Parking, pot, hilarity
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The coming pot question and questions on the double negative.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You've heard what the president said after meeting with Putin, what's your evaluation?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse Center conundrum continues
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Jessica Olson defends La Crosse Center plans
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
A new Gallup poll shows a decreasing number of Americans who are proud to be Americans. We explore why that might be
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
City of La Crosse shuts down main east west artery two days before beginning of Riverfest. Terry Bauer stops in and rescues us from non working phones
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
We unpack the business news of Wettstein's planning to close and whether there should be taxpayer help for those types of businesses just like there is for companies like Foxconn
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The show where Mitch doesn't stand up for Don Weber while moderating debate over homelessness and especially homeless in public places. Also, Rick still MIA. Only one person notices
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mitch brags about having police called on him, practically begging for his neighbors to do it again. Immigration debate culminates with SCOTUS decision. And the Little House on the Prairie that wasn't
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Kathleen Vinehout definitely not dropping out of governor's race. Are there any negatives to trade tussle?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
President changes position on separation of families, issues executive order. Discussion on whether that was the right move
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Coming to solutions after Kabat veto on La Crosse Center plans
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayor Tim Kabat vetoes the Center. Will it stick? Better options?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
And, when we say 'free for all,' it really is.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sarah Johnson talks with us about mental health resources and reaching out to those who seem to be in distress. And we solicit suggestions for our building's coming mural
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Possible an advisory referendum on marijuana legalization is on November ballot for La Crosse county. Symbolic. But very effective at turning out some voters.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Brilliant or a catastrophe? Both evaluations have been made about the agreement reached in Singapore after negotiations between President Trump and Kim Jong Un. Callers are divided
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse mayor Tim Kabat and the big reveal about his dislike for $49 million La Crosse Center design and how to pay for it
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Bucks are dumping straws. So is Seattle. Do you really need a straw? What else can you use a stainless steel straw for?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Regional cooperation doesn't sound sinister. But police and fire agencies working too closely together has some in communities neighboring La Crosse concerned.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Supreme Court decides on Masterpiece baker case. Doesn't give business the right to openly discriminate. But could the decision open the door?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
You can start discussions about the La Crosse Center and dogs left in cars and congressional candidates frustrated with Facebook censorship. But, at the end of the day (show), it always comes back to 'fix the roads!'
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sign of the times? Roseanne yanked off the air quickly for second season of rebooted show for Barr's Valerie Jarrett tweet. Some say the reaction is hypocritical. And what about those pig socks?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse fire chief Ken Gilliam tries to get Mitch to understand what having his firefighters work for Tri-State actually means. It's work for him. And, no, they don't practice waking up in the middle of the night.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse assistant police chief Rob Abraham makes his monthly visit and talks needles, sentencing and spanking.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sante Fe shooter's father says his son was bullied. Maybe seeking some sort of answer there. Maybe justifying. But bullying plays a real part in school shootings, it would seem, nearly every time.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Tent city is back but work to end homelessness is still valid, isn't it? Would it be more so if a local group had a better acronym?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mitch's favorite city park faces an extreme challenge with the inherent conflict that exists when dog paws interact with broken glass. Who pays for the fix?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The good works of the Beer By Bike Brigade continue. And evaluating relationships in the middle east
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Pedestrian fatalities are up in Wisconsin and nationwide. Mitch has outlandish reasons for why that might be. And among the things that should never touch beer: plastic.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Before Hatched (blue) Baby wound up in La Crosse, it stayed for a time in Hamilton, Ohio. We talk to the one guy who probably knows baby best
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Blue Replicant disappears. May have been consumed. Hunt continues. Breaking news on how Doc Powell died. From Doc Powell. And Kwik Trip's property rights.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
If you're doing your job and you're really good at it and someone holds that against you later because they don't like the job that you had, does that necessarily make you unqualified to run the most covert, darkest, mysterious organization in the history of man? Justin probably has the best answer for that
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
As we gaze into our own hatched baby's eyes we tackle the sticky topic of Sen. Lena Taylor's bank activities.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse mayor Tim Kabat in the studio. Along with blue baby replica. Kabat gives advice about where to put it.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse fire chief Ken Gilliam in the studio. New fire stations. Working with other fire districts. Telling Rick he can't slide down the pole at fire station #1. Riverside North won't be something the city simply hands over. And what's wrong with a little vigilante justice
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
La Crosse's assistant police chief has taken an unusual step of calling for the recall of a circuit court judge (plural?) via Twitter. Many like it. And Mitch and his little Yamaha win another day.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's just a demolition permit. But a dispute over whether to allow Kwik Trip to tear down a house on Losey Boulevard has implications well beyond that. And then there was the curious wandering chicken
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Exploring the complexities of where to ride/drive a Rascal. Bike lanes might actually be encouraging more bikes. And Kwik Trip can't do what it wants with its property according to city hall
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Draft analysis by Dave Carney. Which doesn't fit at all but Mitch insisted. And Reed Grimm talks about his new album and his musical path. Both growing alarm and acceptance over La Crosse Center.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Senior centers. Who needs them? Actually a debate there. Somehow, Rick manages to keep his blatant agism in check. And Mitch gets testy when callers suggest he's shackled to his back-from-the-dead phone.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mitch mourns the death of his phone. But somehow manages to keep his emotions in check long enough to relay great measles scare of 2018 information. Also, just how far into the park is too far for the La Crosse Center. And just how big will Art Fahey's office be?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Funny name for a motorcycle race. But Mama Tried sounds inconceivable fun. Skepticism over snow emergencies and the very witty Lisa David Olson on her new book.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Just not much angst ever about the $49 million (give or take) getting spent on La Crosse Center. Clearly, an indication of community support. But those bike lanes are awful, aren't they? And some little thing about Paul Ryan
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg says he's sorry. How sorry are you that you're on Facebook?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Mayor Tim Kabat has the city's best view of the blue baby. We talked to him about that and the coming snow emergency realm of terror we'll soon be living under. And Rick astonishes the mayor with his wit and Riverside gondola ideas.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
An event at the Onalaska Omni Center gets cancelled. Not that unusual. Or is it? The mystery unfolds on the air
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
So, now we want you to be a part of the art display on La Crosse city hall lawn. Take a selfie. Submit it. Win a prize. And, whatever happened to cruising?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Because we need a new name for the 'Hatched Baby' sculpture, we hereby have suspended all references to the sculpture newly installed to the south of La Crosse city hall. Also, Rick's brilliant idea to notify La Crosse about future impending snow emergencies. Rick also very close to getting arrested. Busy day for Rick.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Technically, it's more of a snow disposal period but you're still supposed to move your cars in strategic ways. Necessary? And were there any tickets written? Did anyone actually see a snow plow?
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Plenty opine on whether Greg Luce would fit on the Onalaska city council. The guy with three years on the bench somehow becomes an exemplary candidate for supreme court. And there's no emergency like a snow emergency.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.