Food banks brace for lean holiday season, Language learning, Cycling around Lake Michigan

Air Date:
Heard On Wisconsin Today
Seven people pose indoors holding certificates and medals, standing in front of a stone wall and fireplace, smiling at the camera.
Students in Chinese language and culture at the University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire display awards they have won. In 2023, Professor Kaishan Kong (right) received a national award from the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages for her work at UW-Eau Claire. Photo courtesy of Kaishan Kong

First, we learn how Wisconsin’s food banks are bracing for hard times. Then, two educators share why they believe language learning is central to the Wisconsin Idea in the face of unprecedented funding cuts. Plus, a cyclist recounts his 1,020-mile journey around Lake Michigan.

Featured in this Episode

  • Wisconsin food bank facing several challenges

    Rising food costs, mass layoffs and upcoming cuts to federal food benefits are some of the challenges Wisconsin food banks are facing as we go into the holiday season. Leaders at two of the state’s food banks explain how they are preparing for uncertainty in the coming months.

  • Supporting language learning in Wisconsin

    Language programs at Wisconsin colleges and universities are facing an uphill battle with federal funding cuts and changing state budget priorities. Two educators share why they believe second-language learning is vital to the Wisconsin Idea.

  • Finance professor bikes around Lake Michigan in 8 days

    DePaul University finance professor Lamont Black just completed a 1,020-mile, eight-day solo bicycle ride around Lake Michigan to raise money and awareness for the Michigan Credit Union Foundation. We find out how he did it and what he learned about himself on the journey.

Episode Credits

  • Rob Ferrett Host
  • Kate Archer Kent Host
  • Michelle Orge Guest
  • Matt Stienstra Guest
  • Frances Vavrus Guest
  • Kaishan Kong Guest
  • Lamont Black Guest
  • Royce Podeszwa Producer
  • Richelle Wilson Producer
  • Avery Lea Rogers Producer
  • Sarah Hopefl Technical Director
  • Lee Rayburn Technical Director
  • Dean Knetter Executive Producer
  • Tim Peterson Managing Producer

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