Each Wisconsin Hometown Stories program is a celebration of the evolution of a town/city in Wisconsin, its residents and the stories they have to tell that paint the picture of specific communities across the state.

In this episode, discover Eau Claire, a community that was both shaped and empowered by the convergence of two rivers. Follow the origins of the Native people who lived on the land and the growth of timber milling, tire manufacturing, and cookware industries that provided employment for Eau Claire residents. Also learn about a feathered mascot named Old Abe who led area troops into Civil War battles, as well as the influential role the city played in the fight for civil rights in baseball.

Each Wisconsin Hometown Stories program is a celebration of the evolution of a town/city in Wisconsin, its residents and the stories they have to tell that paint the picture of specific communities across the state.

In this episode, explore the story of two Wisconsin cities with a contentious beginning that grew to be collaborative communities of innovation and service. Film, archival images, and interviews with historians, local citizens and experts illustrate the two cities' rich stories and their role in shaping international manufacturing and retailing.

Plastic bottles are everywhere! About 70% of the plastic water bottles bought in the U.S. are not recycled, and end up in the oceans. It seems obvious that using fewer plastic water bottles would be a good thing for our environment, but sometimes the alternatives can have negative consequences. Do the costs of banning plastic bottles outweigh the benefits?

The aka Teacher project recognizes the many hats educators today wear – several of which are never included in any job description. The project has grown and changed with every educator we’ve talked to and we are excited to offer this podcast as one created with and for educators like you to explore the joys, challenges, and questions that come with being an educator today.