Gig drivers, New Parkinson’s research, Local business conquers fine stone sculpture industry

Air Date:
Heard On Wisconsin Today
Election 2020 California App Based Drivers  
In this July 9, 2019, file photo a Lyft ride-share car waits at a stoplight in Sacramento, Calif. AP Photo/Rich Pedroncelli

We hear arguments for and against classifying gig drivers as independent contractors. Then, UW-Eau Claire researchers describe their invention to ease Parkinson’s symptoms. Then, the owner of Sun Prairie’s Quarra Stone explains how it became one of the world’s largest maker of fine art stone sculptures.

Featured in this Episode

  • Gig drivers would become independent contractors under new bill

    The Legislature has sent a bill to Gov. Tony Evers that would declare gig drivers for services like Uber, Lyft and DoorDash independent contractors. We hear arguments for and against the legislation.  

  • Innovative Parkinson’s research coming from Wisconsin

    Researchers at UW-Eau Claire received an $82,000-grant for a prototype glove that could help treat Parkinson’s disease. We learn about the disease from the medical director of Wisconsin Parkinson Association, then hear about the prototype glove from some of its creators.

  • Homelessness in Beloit

    Homelessness is a growing problem in Beloit. One out of every eight students in the city’s schools are homeless, based on a federal definition including those staying in motels or relatives’ houses due to financial need. We talk to a family who has experienced it.

  • Local business becomes one of largest producer of fine art stone sculptures in the world

    Quarra Stone Company in Sun Prairie has been an architectural stone cutter and supplier for decades. But recent work in the fine art space – including the purchase of a studio in Italy – has made its owner one of the largest producer of fine art stone sculptures in the world. The owner joins us.

Episode Credits

  • Rob Ferrett Host
  • Kate Archer Kent Host
  • Ruth Whittaker Guest
  • Stephanie Bloomingdale Guest
  • Rep. Ryan Clancy Guest
  • Dacy Reimer Guest
  • Nicholas Beltz Guest
  • Calla Dexheimer Guest
  • Jim Durham Guest
  • Beatrice Lawrence Producer
  • Avery Lea Rogers Producer
  • Trevor Hook Producer
  • Tyler Ditter Technical Director
  • Sarah Hopefl Technical Director
  • Dean Knetter Executive Producer
  • Tim Peterson Managing Producer

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