Route 51

Beginning May 20, WPR’s two current networks – “NPR News & Music” and “The Ideas Network” – will become “WPR News” and “WPR Music.” As this new chapter begins, “Route […]

An innovative program at UW-Madison is connecting communities throughout Wisconsin to education, outreach, technical assistance and research to help local governments solve challenges and improve livability and wellbeing. UniverCity Alliance, […]

The battle between the Bad River Band of the Lake Superior Tribe of Chippewa Indians in northwestern Wisconsin and Enbridge over an oil pipeline that runs through tribal land has been the subject of significant debate and legal controversy for more than a decade. A new documentary, released this month, features dozens of interviews with […]

The experience of sexual assault is deeply devastating for survivors and their loved ones. At Aspirus, a team of nurses with specialized training works with survivors, performing Sexual Assault Nurse Examiner services, also called SANE exams, to help begin the healing process. Shereen Siewert welcomes Amy Riegert, registered nurse and SANE coordinator with Aspirus Health, […]

Local symphonies play an important role in Wisconsin communities, bringing people together in a way that only music can. The concert experience guides both new and seasoned listeners, encouraging them to reach, grow, learn and think as they experience new sounds and melodies. In addition to the economic impact local symphonies have in the region, […]

In the 1950s and 60s, a unit at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base in Ohio collected and investigated UFO sightings – including quite a few in Wisconsin communities. The Air Force concluded that most of the reports were due to easily explainable phenomena, but other cases aren't so easily explained. Shereen Siewert welcomes author and podcaster […]

Shereen Siewert welcomes Dr. Jennifer Johs-Artisensi, director of UW-Eau Claire's Health Care Administration program, Dr. Thomas Kemp, department chair of the UW Eau Claire Department of Economics and Wisconsin Senator Jesse James for a look at those closures and what hospital closures will mean for the people and communities of western Wisconsin.

Dozens of municipal airports are located in communities throughout Wisconsin. Some have a simple grass runway and a single hangar, while others have more sophisticated landing spaces and services. Regardless of size, each airport plays a crucial role in a community's economic health, for a variety of reasons. Shereen Siewert welcomes John Chmiel, a pilot […]

With an election year upon us, it is more important than ever to ensure the news we're consuming is factually accurate. At UW-Stout, researchers wanted to know whether artificial intelligence systems could determine whether news stories are real or fabricated. The results of that research are eye-opening. Shereen Siewert welcomes Dr. Kevin Matthe Caramancion, assistant […]

While many birds escape the cold and fly to warmer regions during the winter, there are multiple species that have adapted to the climate and stay behind for Wisconsin's coldest months. The locals that stick around include goldfinches, woodpeckers, chickadees, northern cardinals, blue jays, robins, screech owls and red-tailed hawks. Over winter, you'll also spot […]

Environment, lifestyle and DNA play important roles in personal health. By studying these factors, researchers aim to find ways to improve the health of future generations. The All of Us Research Program, a national initiative that includes the Marshfield Clinic Research Institute, is inviting people across the country to help build one of the most […]

New educational models are emerging in school districts throughout the state, with more choices than ever before when it comes to public school programs. Montessori and Waldorf methods offer a different approach to childhood education compared to traditional classrooms, while some districts are focusing on immersion programs that teach lessons in multiple languages. How can […]

Communities throughout Wisconsin are grappling with ways to deal with contaminated water and soil after new research that suggests PFAS, dioxin and other toxic chemicals can have significant implications on public health. As scientists continue to work toward a better understanding of the risks involved, regulators are monitoring cleanup efforts, which can be costly and […]

Central Wisconsin native Janel McCarville was a number one pick in the Women's National Basketball Association draft in 2005 and spent years playing ball with teams in Charlotte, New York and Minnesota before retiring from the sport. Now, she's back in her home community of Custer and coaching the next generation of female players at […]

Central Wisconsin native Janel McCarville was a number one pick in the Women's National Basketball Association draft in 2005 and spent years playing ball with teams in Charlotte, New York and Minnesota before retiring from the sport. Now, she's back in her home community of Custer and coaching the next generation of female players at […]

Annually, about 2 and a half million people sustain a traumatic brain injury, which can lead to disability and even death. It is the leading cause of death and disability in children and adults ages 1 to 44, according to the Brain Trauma Foundation. This year, UW-Eau Claire was awarded a grant to expand access […]

Annually, about 2 and a half million people sustain a traumatic brain injury, which can lead to disability and even death. It is the leading cause of death and disability in children and adults ages 1 to 44, according to the Brain Trauma Foundation. This year, UW-Eau Claire was awarded a grant to expand access […]

Since his musical journey began in his early teens, Stevens Point native Adam Greuel has traveled across the country, writing and performing songs that resonate with music lovers nationwide and beyond. In 2010, Adam joined forces with four other musicians to create the bluegrass band Horseshoes & Hand Grenades, a favorite with Wisconsin audiences. A […]

Shereen Siewert welcomes Adam Greuel, who performs several original songs and shares the story of his personal musical journey.

Since his musical journey began in his early teens, Stevens Point native Adam Greuel has traveled across the country, writing and performing songs that resonate with music lovers nationwide and beyond. In 2010, Adam joined forces with four other musicians to create the bluegrass band Horseshoes & Hand Grenades, a favorite with Wisconsin audiences. A […]

Winter weather is upon us! The weather forecasts we see each day are based on an array of meteorological sensing networks and intensive computer modeling. But before the rise of these technologies, forecasts were made by understanding cloud formations and wind directions – something anyone can do in their backyard. “Route 51” host Shereen Siewert […]

Winter weather is upon us! The weather forecasts we see each day are based on an array of meteorological sensing networks and intensive computer modeling. But before the rise of these technologies, forecasts were made by understanding cloud formations and wind directions - something anyone can do in their backyard. “Route 51” host Shereen Siewert welcomes WSAW-TV meteorologist Chad Franzen for a discussion on the physical processes that drive winter weather and the global forces that shape our climate system. Does a “halo around the moon” really foretell a big snowstorm? Listen in and find out.

Winter weather is upon us! The weather forecasts we see each day are based on an array of meteorological sensing networks and intensive computer modeling. But before the rise of these technologies, forecasts were made by understanding cloud formations and wind directions – something anyone can do in their backyard. “Route 51” host Shereen Siewert […]

Since early October the war between Israel and Hamas has claimed thousands of lives, with no end in sight. In communities and on campuses nationwide and throughout Wisconsin, antisemitic rhetoric is also increasing, with recent displays of hate. Shereen Siewert welcomes Dr. Damir Kovačević (left), UW-Eau Claire Assistant Professor of Political Science, and Dr. Edgar […]

Shereen Siewert welcomes Dr. Damir Kovačević, UW-Eau Claire Assistant Professor of Political Science, and Dr. Edgar Francis UW-Stevens Point Associate Professor and History graduate program coordinator for a discussion on the roots of the conflict in Israel and the Gaza Strip and the ways communities and campuses are responding.

Since early October the war between Israel and Hamas has claimed thousands of lives, with no end in sight. In communities and on campuses nationwide and throughout Wisconsin, antisemitic rhetoric is also increasing, with recent displays of hate. Shereen Siewert welcomes Dr. Damir Kovačević (left), UW-Eau Claire Assistant Professor of Political Science, and Dr. Edgar […]

Many people want the same things as they get older: to stay in their own homes, to maintain independence for as long as possible and to turn to family and friends for help when needed. Agencies throughout Wisconsin can help, with resources that aim to keep aging residents active, healthy and safe. Shereen Siewert welcomes […]

Shereen Siewert welcomes Portage County Aging and Disability Resource Center Director Cindy Piotrowski and Chippewa County ADRC Manager Leslie Fijalkiewicz for a discussion on resources available in every Wisconsin county to help residents stay safe in their homes and age with dignity.

Many people want the same things as they get older: to stay in their own homes, to maintain independence for as long as possible and to turn to family and friends for help when needed. Agencies throughout Wisconsin can help, with resources that aim to keep aging residents active, healthy and safe. Shereen Siewert welcomes […]

Shereen Siewert welcomes Luke Zahm, host of PBS Wisconsin's “Wisconsin Foodie” and owner of the Driftless Cafe in Viroqua, for a joyful discussion about the roots of Wisconsin food traditions.

A shared meal binds people in a unique way, especially during the holiday season. Food is closely tied to memories, cultural heritage and tradition, breaking down barriers and reminding us of our shared, common humanity. But where do Wisconsin's food traditions come from? Shereen Siewert welcomes Luke Zahm, host of PBS Wisconsin's “Wisconsin Foodie” and […]

Shereen Siewert welcomes Waawaakeyaash Keller Paap, Indigenous knowledge development coordinator at the Waadookodaading Ojibwe Language Institute, and Waqnahwew Ben Grignon, Menominee language and culture coordinator with the Menominee Indian School District, for a discussion on initiatives that aim to protect Indigenous languages.

The cornerstone of any culture or community is its language, where oral histories are passed down, knowledge is shared and bonds are formed. In Wisconsin and around the country, many Indigenous languages are under threat of disappearing, putting the cultural identity of many tribes at risk. Today, efforts are underway to revitalize critically endangered Native […]

Shereen Siewert welcomes David Anthony Hummer to share his vision for the Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art, an under-the-radar spot that has hosted multiple international competitions and exhibitions that are well-known in the artist community.

David Anthony Hummer's paintings are collected worldwide, but his real passion is blossoming in his hometown of Wausau, where internationally renowned artists share their work and expertise with Wisconsin residents. Shereen Siewert welcomes David Anthony Hummer to share his vision for the Wausau Museum of Contemporary Art, an under-the-radar spot that has hosted multiple international […]

Shereen Siewert welcomes Wisconsin River Alliance Water Advocates organizer Johnson Bridgwater and University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire Geology and Environmental Science Professor Dr. Robert Lodge to explain the science of mining for minerals. They'll detail the environmental implications involved, the safeguards in place and explore the potential risks and benefits to the state.

Metals like gold and copper that occur in sulfide ore bodies have not been mined in Wisconsin since the Flambeau mine shut down in 1997. Concerns over pollution related to that mine led to the state’s sulfide mining moratorium, which was repealed in 2017 under a law passed by the Republican-controlled state Legislature. Now, a […]

Ezra Wall welcomes Tom Manus and Kristi Flick Manus, authors of "Secret Wisconsin: A Guide to the Weird, Wonderful, and Obscure," for an audio road trip.

Shereen Siewert welcomes Wisconsin EMS Association Executive DIrector Alan DeYoung and Office of Rural Health Outreach Manager James Small to share insight about the challenges faced in communities throughout the state.

Schizophrenia is a chronic and severe brain disorder that interferes with the ability to think, feel and behave clearly. Although the condition affects just one percent of the population, it is one of the most disabling diseases affecting people and families nationwide. Shereen Siewert welcomes Stevens Point author Kenneth Farmer, a retired public defender and prosecutor to discuss his new book, Lee. Farmer's latest release is a memoir that describes his own brother's descent into paranoid schizophrenia and the ways in which his family learned to cope. Ken Farmer's Website

Wisconsin Attorney Josh Kaul created a task force to combat human trafficking in January 2023.

Shereen Siewert welcomes Adam Greuel, who performs several original songs and shares the story of his personal musical journey.