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Daniel Croake with mother Shelia Petitjean (Photo Daniel Croake)

No Place Like Home

The Pandemic’s Impact on LGBTQ Youth

PBS Wisconsin checks in with a Green Bay Preble High School LGBTQ leader, senior Daniel Croake, who talks about earning a college scholarship and how things have gone with the virtual close to his high school career. We also talk with Brian Juchems, co-director of the statewide LGBTQ youth support network, GSAFE, who will offer an overview into the pandemic’s impact on LGBTQ students.

May 26, 2020

Wisconsinites enjoy Memorial Day weekend during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wisconsinites enjoy Memorial Day weekend during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Wisconsinites Celebrate Memorial Day Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Health officials urge social distancing as parts of the state are largely open, while business owners work to provide a clean experience and build customers' confidence.

May 26, 2020 • South Central Region

Dane County Exec. Joe Parisi announces the county would implement a local stay-at-home order May 13, 2020.

Dane County Exec. Joe Parisi announces the county would implement a local stay-at-home order May 13, 2020.

Dane County Loosens Restrictions as Counties Face Legal Challenge

Dane County announced Friday it would move to a "Phase 1" of reopening, allowing businesses to operate at 25% capacity and gatherings of up to 50 people outdoors.

May 22, 2020 • South Central Region

Gov. Tony Evers said $100 of federal coronavirus aid money will go to medical care facilities, such as nursing homes.

Gov. Tony Evers said $100 of federal coronavirus aid money will go to medical care facilities, such as nursing homes.

Unemployement Numbers Reach Historic High, Evers Allocates Funds to Nursing Homes

The federal funds will go toward emergency medical services, home and community-based services, and long-term care providers. This comes as unemployment numbers rose to 14.1% during the month of April.

May 21, 2020

Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden during a March 9, 2020 campaign event in Detroit, Michigan. (Courtesy: Adam Schultz / Biden for President)

Democratic presidential candidate Joe Biden during a March 9, 2020 campaign event in Detroit, Michigan. (Courtesy: Adam Schultz / Biden for President)

Biden Makes Two Virtual Stops in Wisconsin

The Democratic presidential candidate made virtual stops in La Crosse and Milwaukee, discussing plans for rural Wisconsin and criticizing the president's response to the coronavirus pandemic.

May 20, 2020 • West Central Region

An absentee ballot from the 2012 presidential election. (Courtesy: Michael Leland / WPR)

An absentee ballot from the 2012 presidential election. (Courtesy: Michael Leland / WPR)

Update: Wisconsin Elections Commission Deadlocks on Absentee Ballot Decision

The Wisconsin Elections Commission deadlocked on whether to approve a proposal to send out absentee ballot request forms to all registered Wisconsin Voters. Funding from the proposal would come from federal coronavirus funds, and commissioners were at odds over specifics on how to allocate those funds. Commissioners also debated whether ...

May 20, 2020

Transmission electron micrograph of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles, isolated from a patient. Image captured and color-enhanced at the NIAID Integrated Research Facility (IRF) in Fort Detrick, Maryland. (Courtesy: NIAID)

Transmission electron micrograph of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles, isolated from a patient. Image captured and color-enhanced at the NIAID Integrated Research Facility (IRF) in Fort Detrick, Maryland. (Courtesy: NIAID)

State Promotes Testing and Tracing Locally in Coronavirus Efforts

The state is preparing a testing and contact tracing-based response to the coronavirus after last week’s Supreme Court ruling left details of opening businesses to counties. “While we all stayed home, we didn't become immune to the virus and the virus didn't become any less lethal,” said Department of Health ...

May 19, 2020

Home Movies: A Visit with PBS Wisconsin Director’s Cut Host Pete Schwaba

Home Movies: A Visit with PBS Wisconsin Director’s Cut Host Pete Schwaba

No Place Like Home

Home Movies: A Visit with PBS Wisconsin Director’s Cut Host Pete Schwaba

Thoughts on the movie industry during the pandemic

May 19, 2020

Gov. Tony Evers says he will not push for a statewide COVID-19 approach through the rulemaking process during a May 18, 2020 media briefing.

Gov. Tony Evers says he will not push for a statewide COVID-19 approach through the rulemaking process during a May 18, 2020 media briefing.

Evers Administration Ends Push for Statewide Approach

Gov. Tony Evers said during a media briefing Monday that it was not worth going through the rulemaking process since Republicans made their position clear that they did not want a statewide approach to combat the virus.

May 18, 2020

Choropleth map of Wisconsin showing each county sorted by name.

Choropleth map of Wisconsin showing each county sorted by name.

Counties Rescind Orders over Legal Concern from Supreme Court Ruling

The Supreme Court order striking down the state's "Safer at Home" order has caused confusion among counties that issued their own stay-at-home orders. Now counties are rescinding their orders in fear of legal retribution.

May 15, 2020 • Northeast Region

This transmission electron microscope image shows SARS-CoV-2—also known as 2019-nCoV, the virus that causes COVID-19—isolated from a patient in the U.S. Virus particles are shown emerging from the surface of cells cultured in the lab. The spikes on the outer edge of the virus particles give coronaviruses their name, crown-like.Image captured and colorized at NIAID's Rocky Mountain Laboratories (RML) in Hamilton, Montana. (Courtesy: NIAID)

This transmission electron microscope image shows SARS-CoV-2—also known as 2019-nCoV, the virus that causes COVID-19—isolated from a patient in the U.S. Virus particles are shown emerging from the surface of cells cultured in the lab. The spikes on the outer edge of the virus particles give coronaviruses their name, crown-like.Image captured and colorized at NIAID's Rocky Mountain Laboratories (RML) in Hamilton, Montana. (Courtesy: NIAID)

County Approach Dominates Wisconsin’s COVID-19 Future

In the wake of a Supreme Court ruling that struck down the governor's "Safer at Home" order, counties are left to decide what stay-at-home orders to enforce locally. Gov. Tony Evers says he will work with legislative Republicans via an administrative rulemaking process to coordinate a statewide response to the virus.

May 14, 2020

Palmer Station Scientist Carolyn Lipke

Palmer Station Scientist Carolyn Lipke

No Place Like Home

Pandemic Extends Wisconsin Scientist’s Stay in Antarctica

That’s the bad news. But, what if your home was in the safest spot in the world?

May 14, 2020

Front page of the Supreme Court's decision striking down the Evers administration's -Safer at Home- order.

Front page of the Supreme Court's decision striking down the Evers administration's -Safer at Home- order.

Update: Supreme Court Strikes Down ‘Safer at Home’ Order

Wisconsin’s Supreme Court struck down the state’s “Safer at Home” order Wednesday, leaving Wisconsin with no plan in place to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. Gov. Tony Evers said the ruling will undercut the progress the state has made on containing COVID-19. “Republican legislators convinced four members of the Supreme ...

May 13, 2020

Image showing current facility-related outbreaks investigated by the Dept. of Health Services.

Image showing current facility-related outbreaks investigated by the Dept. of Health Services.

DHS Releases Names of Nursing Homes with COVID-19

Health secretary Andrea Palm says the release is to create transparency and peace of mind for those who have relatives in nursing homes.

May 13, 2020

Republican Tom Tiffany will be the next representative from Wisconsin's 7th Congressional District after winning a May 12, 2020 special election.

Republican Tom Tiffany will be the next representative from Wisconsin's 7th Congressional District after winning a May 12, 2020 special election.

Tiffany Wins Special Election

Republican Tom Tiffany wins the special election to replace Sean Duffy in the state's 7th Congressional District.

May 13, 2020 • Northern Region

Map: 7th Congressional District Special Election Results

Map: 7th Congressional District Special Election Results

Map: 7th Congressional District Special Election Results

Republican Tom Tiffany beat Democrat Tricia Zunker in the race to replace Sean Duffy for Wisconsin's 7th Congressional District.

May 12, 2020

Deputy health secretary Julie Willems Van Dijk and Wisconsin National Guard Adjutant General Paul Knapp brief Wisconsin media May 12, 2020.

Deputy health secretary Julie Willems Van Dijk and Wisconsin National Guard Adjutant General Paul Knapp brief Wisconsin media May 12, 2020.

National Guard Helps Testing Efforts, Staffing Tuesday’s Polls

As the state continues to increase testing, the Wisconsin National Guard will provide 25 testing teams as early as Wednesday to help the effort. The guard will also help fill a shortage of poll workers in the 7th Congressional District special election.

May 12, 2020

Image of a clothing rack from a thrift store. (Courtesy: Carla Burke)

Image of a clothing rack from a thrift store. (Courtesy: Carla Burke)

Retailers Allowed Five-Person Limit

Under a new order, Gov. Tony Evers allows Wisconsin retailers to open their stores to five customers at a time.

May 11, 2020

UW-System President Ray Cross (left) and former UW-Board of Regents President John Behling (right) hear testimony during the board's October 2017 meeting. (Courtesy: Rich Kremer / WPR)

UW-System President Ray Cross (left) and former UW-Board of Regents President John Behling (right) hear testimony during the board's October 2017 meeting. (Courtesy: Rich Kremer / WPR)

UW Leaders Work to Weather COVID-19 Pandemic

Among the sectors affected by the economic turmoil of the COVID-19 pandemic is the state’s university system, prompting UW System President Ray Cross to release a scaling-down plan late last week. “The University of Wisconsin System must refine the missions of its comprehensive universities to provide greater institutional distinctiveness and ...

May 11, 2020 • South Central Region

Cover photo of a guidance document the Evers administration provided to businesses to help them implement best practices when businesses reopen in the state.

Cover photo of a guidance document the Evers administration provided to businesses to help them implement best practices when businesses reopen in the state.

Evers Provides Guidance for Businesses as State Makes Progress Toward Opening

The guidance to businesses will help ensure customer confidence once businesses reopen, as the Dept. of Health Services announces Friday the state has met half its goals to begin reopening.

May 8, 2020

Crawford County Independent and Kickapoo Scout editor Charley Preusser on his farm

Crawford County Independent and Kickapoo Scout editor Charley Preusser on his farm

No Place Like Home

The Press Must Go On

Southwest Wisconsin newspaper is now an at-home affair.

May 7, 2020

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) meat inspectors and graders perform their mission. (Courtesy: Preston Keres / USDA)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) meat inspectors and graders perform their mission. (Courtesy: Preston Keres / USDA)

USDA Urges Meat Plants to Stay Open while Safety Concerns Remain

USDA Sec. Sonny Perdue says meat processing plants should remain open or reopen soon, but advocates say plants are not following CDC recommendations.

May 6, 2020 • Northeast Region

Wisconsin Capitol.

Wisconsin Capitol.

Wisconsin Makes Progress on Criteria to Reopen State

Wisconsin must meet certain "gating criteria" before it can start to reopen under the governor's order. According to new data from the Dept. of Health Services, the state has met two of the six criteria and is making progress on the rest.

May 5, 2020

Wisconsin Supreme Court. (Courtesy: Shamane Mills / WPR)

Wisconsin Supreme Court. (Courtesy: Shamane Mills / WPR)

Supreme Court Hears ‘Safer at Home’ Challenge

The state Supreme Court met virtually Tuesday to hear the lawsuit filed by the Republican-controlled Legislature against Department of Health Services Secretary-Designee Andrea Palm, alleging she and the governor overstepped their authority by issuing the state’s “Safer at Home” order without legislative input. Is the “Safer at Home” order like ...

May 5, 2020

Global Pandemic Has Serious Impact on Those with Developmental Disabilities

Global Pandemic Has Serious Impact on Those with Developmental Disabilities

No Place Like Home

Global Pandemic Has Serious Impact on Those with Developmental Disabilities

PBS Wisconsin spoke with two people with developmental disabilities in Rhinelander to see how life during the pandemic was going for them. Our interview with John and Carol Anne was arranged with help from Jenny Felty, Director of Headwaters, Inc., a Rhinelander-based human services agency whose partners include the Ashland and Bayfield Counties Departments of Health and Human Services. Part 1 is a visit with John and Carol Anne. Jenny Felty provides a larger context about people with special needs during the pandemic in Part 2 which is a Q&A.

May 5, 2020

Gov. Tony Evers during a May 4, 2020 briefing.

Gov. Tony Evers during a May 4, 2020 briefing.

Evers Announces Testing Goals

In a Monday announcement, the governor said the state would provide more resources to long-term care facilities like nursing homes and provide pop-up community testing sites around the state.

May 4, 2020

Three Wisconsin National Guard Soldiers and Airmen and one local medical professional help facilitate mobile testing in Buffalo County, Wis., May 1, 2020. Wisconsin National Guard Soldiers and Airmen provide COVID-19 testing alongside county Emergency Management and County Health Officials in support of the Department of Health Services request in Buffalo County, Wisconsin. (Courtesy: Spc. Emma Anderson / Wisconsin National Guard)

Three Wisconsin National Guard Soldiers and Airmen and one local medical professional help facilitate mobile testing in Buffalo County, Wis., May 1, 2020. Wisconsin National Guard Soldiers and Airmen provide COVID-19 testing alongside county Emergency Management and County Health Officials in support of the Department of Health Services request in Buffalo County, Wisconsin. (Courtesy: Spc. Emma Anderson / Wisconsin National Guard)

Community Testing Begins in Northwestern Wisconsin

National Guard deployed to support county and tribal health efforts.

May 4, 2020 • West Central Region

Map: Tracking COVID-19 Cases in Wisconsin

Map: Tracking COVID-19 Cases in Wisconsin

Map: Tracking COVID-19 Cases in Wisconsin

May 1, 2020

Rep. Rob Swearingen, R-Rhinelander, hears input on how to reopen parts of the state during an April 30, 2020 committee meeting. (Courtesy: Wisconsin Eye)

Rep. Rob Swearingen, R-Rhinelander, hears input on how to reopen parts of the state during an April 30, 2020 committee meeting. (Courtesy: Wisconsin Eye)

Lawmakers Question ‘Essential’ Designation under ‘Safer at Home’

Republican lawmakers advocated a broader definition of essential, as they argued some multi-purpose stores could sell non-essential goods as those non-essential stores remain closed.

May 1, 2020

Wisconsin Capitol dome.

Wisconsin Capitol dome.

Evers, Legislators Call for Bipartisanship as Court Battle Continues

Gov. Tony Evers said he and legislative Republicans are not far apart on coronavirus policy, as he defends his ability to issue a stay-at-home order in a Republican-brought suit before the state Supreme Court.

April 29, 2020

UW-Madison's Bascom Hall Aug. 3, 2014. (Courtesy: Phil Roeder)

UW-Madison's Bascom Hall Aug. 3, 2014. (Courtesy: Phil Roeder)

UW-Madison, State Announce Furloughs and Cuts Amid Coronavirus Uncertainty

The state’s flagship campus will institute furloughs as state agencies face a 5% reduction in general purpose revenue.

April 29, 2020

Medical testing swabs. (Courtesy: Vesna Harni)

Medical testing swabs. (Courtesy: Vesna Harni)

Wisconsin Pushes New Guidance for More Testing

Health officials say any Wisconsinite who is symptomatic should receive a test, as they hope to increase the current testing level of 2,000-3,000 per day to meet the state's capacity of 11,000 per day.

April 29, 2020

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) meat inspectors and graders perform their mission. (Courtesy: USDA)

U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) meat inspectors and graders perform their mission. (Courtesy: USDA)

Testing and Tracing to Help Combat Brown County Outbreak

Thousands of test kits from the state help officials track the spread of the disease among outbreaks in three meatpacking plants, as the president encourages meatpacking plants to stay open as essential businesses.

April 28, 2020 • Northeast Region

A sign showing state parks closed due to the COVID-19 outbreak April 10, 2020.

A sign showing state parks closed due to the COVID-19 outbreak April 10, 2020.

Evers to Reopen State Parks Friday

Many of the state parks that were closed to enforce social distancing efforts will reopen Friday. Operating hours will be reduced and capacity will be lowered to roughly 75%.

April 28, 2020

Around the Corner and Safe at Home with Milwaukee Historian John Gurda

Around the Corner and Safe at Home with Milwaukee Historian John Gurda

No Place Like Home

Around the Corner and Safe at Home with Milwaukee Historian John Gurda

John Gurda, the bike-riding historian from public television’s “Around the Corner with John McGivern” and author of multiple books on Milwaukee history, spoke with PBS Wisconsin about life today in the city and historical perspective on these times.

April 28, 2020

A group of kayaks at Whitefish Dunes State Park. Under the governor's new order, outdoor equipment like boats and ATVs can now be rented.

A group of kayaks at Whitefish Dunes State Park. Under the governor's new order, outdoor equipment like boats and ATVs can now be rented.

Wisconsin Begins to ‘Turn the Dial’ on Reopening

The governor announced changes today that loosen the state's "Safer at Home" restrictions, allowing outdoor gear rentals and more businesses to do curbside pickup.

April 27, 2020

Claire Paprocki, a Brown County public health strategist, says -we're trying to be all on the same team and attack this from the same angle,- as the county faces an outbreak of COVID-19 cases in meat packing plants.

Claire Paprocki, a Brown County public health strategist, says -we're trying to be all on the same team and attack this from the same angle,- as the county faces an outbreak of COVID-19 cases in meat packing plants.

Brown County Officials Grapple with COVID-19 Spike

Meatpacking plants are essential parts of food infrastructure, especially during a pandemic, but a recent outbreak of COVID-19 in Brown County facilities is causing a full-court press to ensure workers and the community are safe.

April 27, 2020 • Northeast Region

The Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce building in downtown Madison. (Courtesy: Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce)

The Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce building in downtown Madison. (Courtesy: Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce)

WMC Proposes Plan to Reopen Businesses

The plan would evaluate risks specific to individual businesses, and consider the health care infrastructure of the business's county.

April 24, 2020

Gov. Tony Evers discusses restrictions that are loosened in his extended -Safer at Home- order April 23, 2020.

Gov. Tony Evers discusses restrictions that are loosened in his extended -Safer at Home- order April 23, 2020.

Evers Encourages Continued Distance Ahead of Extended Order

The governor's original order was set to expire Friday, but is now extended through May 26. The new order loosens some restrictions, like allowing curbside pick up for libraries and golf courses to open.

April 23, 2020

WPR: Wisconsin Projects to Document Life During the Coronavirus Pandemic

WPR: Wisconsin Projects to Document Life During the Coronavirus Pandemic

No Place Like Home

WPR: Wisconsin Projects to Document Life During the Coronavirus Pandemic

We are living through an historic time, and it's important to document life today for posterity. We learn about two projects meant to record the experience of living through the coronavirus outbreak here in Wisconsin.

April 22, 2020

Wisconsin National Guard Capt. Joe Trovato speaks to the press at the State Emergency Operations Center March 12, 2020.

Wisconsin National Guard Capt. Joe Trovato speaks to the press at the State Emergency Operations Center March 12, 2020.

National Guard Contributes to State COVID-19 Effort

The National Guard's adjutant general said troops are helping with testing and supplies to bolster state agencies' responses to the virus.

April 22, 2020

Vice President Mike Pence visits a Madison GE Healthcare facility to tout the company's production of ventilators amid the COVID-19 outbreak April 21, 2020.

Vice President Mike Pence visits a Madison GE Healthcare facility to tout the company's production of ventilators amid the COVID-19 outbreak April 21, 2020.

Pence Applauds Increased Ventilator Production During Madison Visit

The VP says the Trump Administration will use the Defense Production Act to make sure facilities like the one in Madison are adequately supplied to keep production moving forward at increased capacity.

April 21, 2020

Entryway to the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

Entryway to the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

GOP-Controlled Legislature Sues over “Safer at Home”

Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald filed for original action in the state Supreme Court, alleging the governor overstepped his executive authority.

April 21, 2020

Madison Couple Stays Safe and Sing to Their Neighbors – from a Distance

Madison Couple Stays Safe and Sing to Their Neighbors – from a Distance

No Place Like Home

Madison Couple Stays Safe and Sing to Their Neighbors – from a Distance

In the age of musicians live streaming, a Madison couple go live every night on their front porch.

April 21, 2020

A diagram of the goals set for the -Badger Bounce Back- plan to reopen the state in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak.

A diagram of the goals set for the -Badger Bounce Back- plan to reopen the state in the midst of the COVID-19 outbreak.

Evers Releases Three-Phase Plan to Reopen the State

The plan hinges on an increased ability to test potential cases, as well as a 14-day drop in suspected and confirmed COVID-19 cases.

April 20, 2020

Cindy Reinhardt from the Durand Arkansaw School District accepts a donation from Steve Bechel of Eau Galle Cheese Factory and Don Weiss from Weiss Family Farms. (Courtesy: Brian Winnekins)

Cindy Reinhardt from the Durand Arkansaw School District accepts a donation from Steve Bechel of Eau Galle Cheese Factory and Don Weiss from Weiss Family Farms. (Courtesy: Brian Winnekins)

Getting Dairy Products to Food Banks Has Win-Win Potential

As aftershocks from COVID-19 devastate the dairy industry, local and statewide efforts are trying to make a pipeline for dairy products to get to food pantries.

April 19, 2020

Wisconsin Elections Commission Chair Dean Knudson speaks at a Feb. 27, 2020 meeting.

Wisconsin Elections Commission Chair Dean Knudson speaks at a Feb. 27, 2020 meeting.

Elections Commission to Investigate, Improve Absentee Ballot Issues

The Wisconsin Elections Commission voted Saturday to move forward with a barcode tracking system for absentee ballots and to investigate postal service issues that prevented ballots from getting to voters.

April 18, 2020

Unemployment Claims Soar as COVID-19 Continues to Threaten Wisconsin’s Economy

Unemployment Claims Soar as COVID-19 Continues to Threaten Wisconsin’s Economy

Unemployment Claims Soar as COVID-19 Continues to Threaten Wisconsin’s Economy

The Wisconsin Department for Workforce Development has swelled with requests for unemployment insurance as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to keep people from their jobs. The DWD has received more than 300,000 claims for unemployment in the last month and has filled more than half a million claims weekly. As of ...

April 18, 2020

Lighthouse in Door County, Wisconsin.

Lighthouse in Door County, Wisconsin.

Door County Grapples with Safety and Lost Revenue During Pandemic

Door County residents wish Wisconsinites could visit, but urge them to stay home during the public health crisis.

April 17, 2020 • Northeast Region

Iowa County Man Drives to Work to Work at Home

Iowa County Man Drives to Work to Work at Home

No Place Like Home

Iowa County Man Drives to Work to Work at Home

What happens when an information technologist can't get enough bandwidth?

April 16, 2020

Gary Dalgaard of Sun Prairie donates his plasma in the hope that antibodies in his blood could prevent COVID-19 patients from needing to be placed on ventilators.

Gary Dalgaard of Sun Prairie donates his plasma in the hope that antibodies in his blood could prevent COVID-19 patients from needing to be placed on ventilators.

Recoverees Help Others by Donating Plasma

Plasma transfusion can be a promising technique for a recovered patient to share antibodies with someone currently suffering from COVID-19.

April 16, 2020

A sign showing Stone Creek Coffee is temporarily closed due to COVID-19 March 25, 2020.

A sign showing Stone Creek Coffee is temporarily closed due to COVID-19 March 25, 2020.

Update: Evers Extends ‘Safer at Home’ Order Through May

The new order extends "Safer at Home" social distancing through the morning of May 26. The governor says increased testing capacity and other public health measures are needed to be in place before the state reopens.

April 16, 2020

A nurse dons a surgical mask.

A nurse dons a surgical mask.

Legislators Push for Stronger Protections for Health Care Workers

The "Healthcare Heroes" bill would help acquire personal protective equipment as well as provide for hazard pay and paid sick leave for health care workers during the COVID-19 pandemic.

April 16, 2020

Federalism—the division of power between state and national governments—is often described as either a layer cake (distinct powers) or marble cake (overlapping powers).

Federalism—the division of power between state and national governments—is often described as either a layer cake (distinct powers) or marble cake (overlapping powers).

Federalism Newly in Focus as Governors Take Frontline Action

PBS Wisconsin sits down with UT-Austin professor Don Kettl, formerly of UW-Madison's La Follette School of Public Affairs, to discuss what federalism means during a global pandemic.

April 15, 2020

Representative Gordon Hintz, D-Oshkosh, wears a mask as members meet to vote on a bill would give the unemployed more benefits, provide insurance protections for those infected with coronavirus and shield health-care providers from liability, during a session April 14, 2020. (Courtesy: Rick Wood / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

Representative Gordon Hintz, D-Oshkosh, wears a mask as members meet to vote on a bill would give the unemployed more benefits, provide insurance protections for those infected with coronavirus and shield health-care providers from liability, during a session April 14, 2020. (Courtesy: Rick Wood / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel)

Update: Legislature Passes COVID-19 Aid Package

The bill received broad bipartisan support and would eliminate the state's one-week waiting period for unemployed Wisconsinites to receive benefits, among other provisions. The governor signed the bill Wednesday afternoon.

April 15, 2020

Baraboo Logger Has Had to Saw His Business to the Bone

Baraboo Logger Has Had to Saw His Business to the Bone

No Place Like Home

Baraboo Logger Has Had to Saw His Business to the Bone

Mike Wilm is cutting wood even as he cuts payroll. How long can he keep it up?

April 14, 2020

A visit to Wheelhouse Studios in the Memorial Union at UW-Madison, as seen in this photo from 2014, is the kind of activity that was supported by the -bridge builders- of Living Our Visions (LOV Inc) before the COVID 19 crisis. (Courtesy Jeff Miller / UW-Madison)

A visit to Wheelhouse Studios in the Memorial Union at UW-Madison, as seen in this photo from 2014, is the kind of activity that was supported by the -bridge builders- of Living Our Visions (LOV Inc) before the COVID 19 crisis. (Courtesy Jeff Miller / UW-Madison)

Nonprofit Sector to Be Challenged and Changed by COVID-19

Non-profit organizations face new challenges as the COVID-19 outbreak affects their daily operations and bottom line.

April 14, 2020 • South Central Region

Map: Wisconsin Spring 2020 Election Results

Map: Wisconsin Spring 2020 Election Results

Here and Now 2020

Map: Wisconsin Spring 2020 Election Results

Dane County Judge Jill Karofsky beat incumbent Justice Dan Kelly for the Wisconsin Supreme Court. Former Vice President Joe Biden won the state's Democratic presidential primary, beating Vermont U.S. Sen. Bernie Sanders who won the state four years ago.

April 14, 2020

Dane County Judge Jill Karofsky.

Dane County Judge Jill Karofsky.

Here and Now 2020

Jill Karofsky Wins Supreme Court Election

Dane County Judge Jill Karofsky beats incumbent Justice Daniel Kelly 55%-45% in an election turned turbulent by the COVID-19 pandemic.

April 13, 2020

This transmission electron microscope image shows SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, isolated from a patient in the U.S. Virus particles are shown emerging from the surface of cells cultured in the lab. The spikes on the outer edge of the virus particles give coronaviruses their name, crown-like. (Courtesy: NIAID-RML)

This transmission electron microscope image shows SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, isolated from a patient in the U.S. Virus particles are shown emerging from the surface of cells cultured in the lab. The spikes on the outer edge of the virus particles give coronaviruses their name, crown-like. (Courtesy: NIAID-RML)

Health Officials Begin to See Flattened Curve

The governor and public health officials expressed cautious optimism in a Monday briefing.

April 13, 2020

Steeple at St. John's Lutheran Church in Johnson Creek on Easter Sunday April 12, 2020. Worshipers tuned in to the service from their car radios while maintaining social distancing.

Steeple at St. John's Lutheran Church in Johnson Creek on Easter Sunday April 12, 2020. Worshipers tuned in to the service from their car radios while maintaining social distancing.

Churches Hold Drive-In Easter Services

Church services around Wisconsin have moved online in the wake of Gov. Tony Evers’s “Safer at Home” order. Easter Sunday however, some churches held drive-in services, with parishioners staying in their cars and listening to the service through their radios. There was confusion earlier in the week about whether drive-in ...

April 13, 2020

Homeless woman on a bench near the state Capitol in Madison July 11, 2016.

Homeless woman on a bench near the state Capitol in Madison July 11, 2016.

Wisconsin Bands Together to Address Homelessness and COVID-19

Advocacy groups in Wisconsin work to help the homeless amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

April 11, 2020 • Northeast Region

A sign notifies the public that the state park has been closed due to COVID-19.

A sign notifies the public that the state park has been closed due to COVID-19.

Governor Closes 40 Parks Due To Vandalism and Crowds

Wardens from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources blocked the entrances to Devil's Lake State Park Friday. A snow fence blocked the entrance to nearby Parfrey's Glen State Natural Area. Just a few days earlier people were parking on the road and rubbing shoulder-to-shoulder on the paths, in clear violation ...

April 11, 2020

Examples of postmarks on absentee ballots received by clerks during the April 7, 2020 election, from a memo prepared by the Wisconsin Elections Commission.

Examples of postmarks on absentee ballots received by clerks during the April 7, 2020 election, from a memo prepared by the Wisconsin Elections Commission.

Postmarks Cause Absentee Ballot Confusion

The Wisconsin Elections Commission debated for hours Friday on how to interpret the U.S. Supreme Court order mandating ballots in this April's election have an April 7 postmark if received after Tuesday.

April 11, 2020

Milwaukee voters waited in line for hours as the city goes from 180 polling sites to five amid the COVID-19 pandemic April 7, 2020.

Milwaukee voters waited in line for hours as the city goes from 180 polling sites to five amid the COVID-19 pandemic April 7, 2020.

State Increases Contact Tracing After In-Person Voting

In-person voting could have exposed more Wisconsinites to COVID-19, as health officials become concerned about the disease's disproportionate impact on the state's African-American population.

April 10, 2020 • Southeast Region

Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos on a March 25, 2020 call with reporters.

Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos on a March 25, 2020 call with reporters.

Legislature to Take Up Coronavirus Bill Next Week

The bill is still being drafted according to legislative leaders, and the session could come as early as next Tuesday.

April 10, 2020

Dr. Marin Darsie works in a Wisconsin emergency room, specializing in neurocritical care.

Dr. Marin Darsie works in a Wisconsin emergency room, specializing in neurocritical care.

E.R. Doctor Says In-Person Election Will ‘Likely Lead to Deaths’

“I was very disappointed that this in-person election occurred, because I truly think it will lead to additional cases of COVID-19 in our community and likely lead to deaths,” says emergency room Dr. Marin Darsie. She says Wisconsin can expect to see an increase in deaths from Tuesday's election in a matter of weeks.

April 10, 2020

Milwaukee Washington High School Senior Copes with Learning and Living at Home

Milwaukee Washington High School Senior Copes with Learning and Living at Home

No Place Like Home

Milwaukee Washington High School Senior Copes with Learning and Living at Home

Milwaukee Washington High School Senior Devonta Hymes stays on schedule to graduate this spring. He's reaching out to his classmates to help them do the same.

April 9, 2020

Bobbie Perkins, 53, waits in line to vote outside the polling site at Marshall High School in Milwaukee on April 7, 2020. She says she requested an absentee ballot that never arrived. The U.S. Postal Service is investigating why some mailed absentee ballots were not delivered. Wisconsin Elections Commission Administrator Meagan Wolfe says the state is trying to determine the scope of the problem. (Courtesy: Coburn Dukehart / Wisconsin Watch)

Bobbie Perkins, 53, waits in line to vote outside the polling site at Marshall High School in Milwaukee on April 7, 2020. She says she requested an absentee ballot that never arrived. The U.S. Postal Service is investigating why some mailed absentee ballots were not delivered. Wisconsin Elections Commission Administrator Meagan Wolfe says the state is trying to determine the scope of the problem. (Courtesy: Coburn Dukehart / Wisconsin Watch)

Returned to Sender: Postal Officials Investigating Wisconsin Absentee Ballots That Were Never Delivered

Update: Wisconsin U.S. Senators Tammy Baldwin and Ron Johnson are calling for an investigation into missing absentee ballots that never reached voters ahead of the April 7 elections. The Democratic and Republican senators wrote a joint letter to the USPS Inspector General to “determine the cause of these failures.”

April 8, 2020

Wisconsin Assembly chamber.

Wisconsin Assembly chamber.

Governor Criticizes GOP COVID-19 Plan

Republican leaders are working out their own plan to fight COVID-19 in Wisconsin, drawing criticism from the governor.

April 8, 2020

A sign outside Midvale Elementary in Madison showing voters where to cast their ballots April 7, 2020.

A sign outside Midvale Elementary in Madison showing voters where to cast their ballots April 7, 2020.

Wisconsin Votes Amid COVID-19 Pandemic

Wisconsin voters head to the polls with increased caution as the state's spring election moves forward amid the COVID-19 pandemic.

April 7, 2020

A stack of requested absentee ballots returned to the Village of Fox Point April 7, 2020. (Courtesy: Scott Botcher)

A stack of requested absentee ballots returned to the Village of Fox Point April 7, 2020. (Courtesy: Scott Botcher)

Fox Point Absentee Ballots Not Sent to Voters

Absentee ballots requested by voters in the Village of Fox Point went undelivered by the United States Postal Services ahead of Tuesday’s elections. The ballots were repeatedly returned to village offices despite USPS saying there was nothing wrong with them, according to Scott Botcher, manager of the Milwaukee County village. ...

April 7, 2020 • Southeast Region

At Home with a Fifth Generation Monticello Dairy Farmer

At Home with a Fifth Generation Monticello Dairy Farmer

No Place Like Home

At Home with a Fifth Generation Monticello Dairy Farmer

Jimmy Voegeli is a fifth generation Wisconsin dairy farmer with acreage in Monticello. He tells what stay-at-home means for his operation and his 220 Brown Swiss cows.

April 7, 2020

An -I Voted Today- sticker from Wisconsin.

An -I Voted Today- sticker from Wisconsin.

Live: Where Wisconsin’s Election Currently Stands

6:45 p.m. U.S. Supreme Court Rules Ballots Must Be Postmarked by Tuesday Under a U.S. Supreme Court ruling, all absentee ballots in Wisconsin’s election must be postmarked by Tuesday, but can be received as late as April 13. Allowing ballots to be sent later than Tuesday “would fundamentally alter the ...

April 6, 2020

Gov. Tony Evers speaks to students at Winnequah School in Monona, Wis., during an event to kick off the Student Tools for Emergency Planning (STEP) program for this school year. (Courtesy: Sgt. Alex Baum / Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs)

Gov. Tony Evers speaks to students at Winnequah School in Monona, Wis., during an event to kick off the Student Tools for Emergency Planning (STEP) program for this school year. (Courtesy: Sgt. Alex Baum / Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs)

Breaking: Evers Suspends In-Person Voting Tuesday

Under an executive order, the in-person election would be delayed until June 9. Republican leaders say they will challenge the order in the state Supreme Court, while elections officials say to continue preparing for Tuesday's election while they wait for litigation.

April 6, 2020

Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, at a June 13, 2019 news conference.

Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald, R-Juneau, and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos, R-Rochester, at a June 13, 2019 news conference.

Update: Coronavirus Election Session Gavels In and Out

Republican leaders gavel in and out a special session called by the governor to address voting concerns amid the COVID-19 outbreak. The legislative leaders said they had "grave concerns" about election security, if ballots were cast after Tuesday.

April 5, 2020

A sign showing Stone Creek Coffee is temporarily closed due to COVID-19 March 25, 2020.

A sign showing Stone Creek Coffee is temporarily closed due to COVID-19 March 25, 2020.

Health Officials See ‘Glimmer of Hope’ in Wisconsin COVID-19 Outbreak

State Epidemiologist Dr. Ryan Westergaard said Friday that Wisconsin is seeing linear--not exponential--increase in virus cases, suggesting that efforts to 'flatten the curve' may be working.

April 3, 2020

Gov. Tony Evers calls for special session to tackle the April 7 election under the COVID-19 outbreak, April 3, 2020.

Gov. Tony Evers calls for special session to tackle the April 7 election under the COVID-19 outbreak, April 3, 2020.

Breaking: Evers Calls Coronavirus Special Session

The legislation put forward by Gov. Tony Evers would make the spring election largely mail-only and push back the timeline to send absentee ballots to clerks into May.

April 3, 2020

Transmission electron micrograph of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles, isolated from a patient. Image captured and color-enhanced at the NIAID Integrated Research Facility (IRF) in Fort Detrick, Maryland. (Courtesy: NIAID)

Transmission electron micrograph of SARS-CoV-2 virus particles, isolated from a patient. Image captured and color-enhanced at the NIAID Integrated Research Facility (IRF) in Fort Detrick, Maryland. (Courtesy: NIAID)

UW-Madison Virologists See Hope in a Potential Two-for-One Vaccine for Influenza, the Novel Coronavirus

Research currently underway at the University of Wisconsin-Madison could lead to a unique vaccine that provides protection against both the novel coronavirus and influenza, with human trials potentially on the horizon as early as fall 2020. The possibility of a vaccine that offers dual protection against two very different viruses ...

April 2, 2020

Western District of Wisconsin Courthouse Feb. 16, 2017.

Western District of Wisconsin Courthouse Feb. 16, 2017.

Update: Federal Court Judge Rules on April Election

The federal judge in Madison extended the deadline to apply for absentee ballots, as well as the deadline for those ballots to be received.

April 2, 2020

Scene from the 2016 Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia.

Scene from the 2016 Democratic National Convention in Philadelphia.

Here and Now 2020

Updated: Milwaukee DNC Postponed Until August

The DNC will be rescheduled to August 17 amid coronavirus concerns. Presidential candidates weighed in on the Wisconsin election, with Bernie Sanders advocating for it to be postponed, while Joe Biden advocated leaving it up to the state.

April 2, 2020

Greendale Seamstress Sewing Facemasks Full Time

Greendale Seamstress Sewing Facemasks Full Time

No Place Like Home

Greendale Seamstress Sewing Facemasks Full Time

The debate over the widespread public use of facemasks is coming to a head this week. Infected people without symptoms can spread the virus. This fact is at the center of new CDC recommendations calling on the White House to consider encouraging people to routinely wear face coverings in public.

April 2, 2020

Gov. Tony Evers speaks to students at Winnequah School in Monona, Wis., during an event to kick off the Student Tools for Emergency Planning (STEP) program for this school year. (Courtesy: Sgt. Alex Baum / Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs)

Gov. Tony Evers speaks to students at Winnequah School in Monona, Wis., during an event to kick off the Student Tools for Emergency Planning (STEP) program for this school year. (Courtesy: Sgt. Alex Baum / Wisconsin Department of Military Affairs)

Evers Releases Second Bill to Combat COVID-19 Outbreak

The bill includes housing aid and a tax credit increase. Meanwhile, Republicans said Wednesday they support the governor's proposal to eliminate the one-week waiting period for unemployment benefits and expect legislation to come soon.

April 1, 2020

A March 2020 Marquette University Law School Poll shows most Wisconsinites approve of the state's response to the COVID-19.

A March 2020 Marquette University Law School Poll shows most Wisconsinites approve of the state's response to the COVID-19.

Latest Marquette Law School Poll Surveys Voters on Coronavirus, Elections

Results of the latest Marquette University Law School Poll show the majority of registered voters in Wisconsin think measures to close schools and non-essential businesses and ask people to stay home are appropriate responses to the coronavirus outbreak. The poll, released Wednesday, asked public opinion around the coronavirus, including how ...

April 1, 2020

Candidates Vie for Mayoral Seat

Candidates Vie for Mayoral Seat

Candidates Vie for Mayoral Seat

Tom Barrett has been mayor of Milwaukee for 16 years and he's looking to make it an even two decades of running Wisconsin's largest city. “I'm very, very excited about the future of the city because, first of all, there's a lot of great things that are going on in ...

April 1, 2020 • Southeast Region

A sign prepared by the Wisconsin Elections Commission to demonstrate to voters how far apart they should be while they wait in line to vote.

A sign prepared by the Wisconsin Elections Commission to demonstrate to voters how far apart they should be while they wait in line to vote.

Update: Elections Commission Prepares Municipalities for Voting During COVID Outbreak

Wisconsin Elections Commission votes to clarify rules on indefinitely confined voters, and to supply municipal clerks with cleaning materials and other supplies ahead of the April 7 election. In a meeting Sunday, the commission deadlocked on chastising the Milwaukee and Dane county clerks.

March 31, 2020

[Voting stickers and sign via pexels.com]

[Voting stickers and sign via pexels.com]

Update: Polling Locations Consolidate Amid Poll Worker Shortage

During a meeting discussing preparations for the election now one week away, the Wisconsin Elections Commission discussed the shortage of poll workers, the record number of absentee ballots that have been requested, and the special health considerations necessary to conduct in-person voting while minimizing the spread of the novel coronavirus.

March 31, 2020

Population 4: Michael Perry and Family Hunker Down in Eau Claire County

Population 4: Michael Perry and Family Hunker Down in Eau Claire County

No Place Like Home

Population 4: Michael Perry and Family Hunker Down in Eau Claire County

Wisconsin author Michael Perry creates a daily, online visit with his fans.

March 31, 2020

Evers Discusses Federal and State Action on COVID-19

Evers Discusses Federal and State Action on COVID-19

Evers Discusses Federal and State Action on COVID-19

Wisconsin is headed "into the worst of it," Gov. Tony Evers said in a Monday briefing as the state's number of COVID-19 cases climbs to 1,221.

March 30, 2020

Milwaukee skyline Sept. 16, 2014.

Milwaukee skyline Sept. 16, 2014.

COVID-19 Threatens Black Communities on Milwaukee’s North Side

"It's been tough to see such a concentration of the virus focusing on [the] African-American community," said state Rep. David Bowen. Milwaukee's African-American community faces the brunt of the COVID-19 disease.

March 30, 2020 • Southeast Region

Gov. Tony Evers speaks a Lincoln Elementary in Wauwatosa Feb. 26, 2020.

Gov. Tony Evers speaks a Lincoln Elementary in Wauwatosa Feb. 26, 2020.

Evers Introduces Broad COVID-19 Response Bill

The bill would send millions to local public health offices and make changes to the upcoming election, including eliminating the photo ID requirement.

March 29, 2020

An absentee ballot from the 2012 presidential election. (Courtesy: Michael Leland / WPR)

An absentee ballot from the 2012 presidential election. (Courtesy: Michael Leland / WPR)

Update: Evers Calls for Widespread Absentee Ballot Legislation

Gov. Tony Evers asks the Legislature to send all registered voters absentee ballots ahead of April 7 amid election concerns during the COVID-19 outbreak. Later Friday, Evers also loosen licensing requirements for certain healthcare workers.

March 27, 2020

U.S. Capitol building August, 2019.

U.S. Capitol building August, 2019.

Update: Congress Passes Third COVID-19 Aid Package

The House of Representatives passed the bill Friday, which the U.S. Senate unanimously approved Wednesday. The bill would send $1,200 checks to Americans, among other provisions.

March 27, 2020

In-House Test Shows Promise to Increase Capacity

In-House Test Shows Promise to Increase Capacity

In-House Test Shows Promise to Increase Capacity

Gundersen Health System in La Crosse has developed their own in-house test for COVID-19. They say patients no longer need to wait days to get results, which might be the case if tests were sent to an outside lab. “If a test is required from the health system, we can ...

March 27, 2020 • West Central Region

Sen. Fred Risser speaks from the Senate floor Feb. 26, 2015.

Sen. Fred Risser speaks from the Senate floor Feb. 26, 2015.

America’s Longest-Serving Legislator, Fred Risser, Retires

Wisconsin’s, and the nation’s, longest-serving legislator Sen. Fred Risser, D-Madison, announced Thursday he will retire after serving 64 years in the state legislature. The 92-year-old was first elected to the Assembly in 1956, and won a Senate seat in 1962. According to a release from his office, Risser served under ...

March 26, 2020 • South Central Region

Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos on a March 25, 2020 call with reporters.

Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald and Assembly Speaker Robin Vos on a March 25, 2020 call with reporters.

Legislative Leaders Want April Election to Move Forward

On a call with reporters, Assembly Speaker Robin Vos and Senate Majority Leader Scott Fitzgerald said municipalities should be prepared for April 7, but they are not considering altering the date at this time.

March 25, 2020

A U.S. Navy officer wears a medical face shield during a teeth cleaning. (Courtesty: U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. Fifth Fleet)

A U.S. Navy officer wears a medical face shield during a teeth cleaning. (Courtesty: U.S. Naval Forces Central Command/U.S. Fifth Fleet)

Industry Steps Up But Far from Scale Needed

Necessity being the mother of invention, Justin Webb, CEO of Franzen Graphics in Sheboygan, saw a need and with his colleagues invented a simple solution. The company specializes in printing on plastic for items like in-store displays and saw a new application for the material they usually print on. Now ...

March 25, 2020 • Southeast Region

Peter Curry, a 23-year-old from Madison, struggles to make it back to the United States while Peru remains quarantined due to the coronavirus.

Peter Curry, a 23-year-old from Madison, struggles to make it back to the United States while Peru remains quarantined due to the coronavirus.

Wisconsinites Stuck in Peru During Coronavirus Lockdown

With Peru on a coronavirus lockdown, Wisconsinites struggle to return home.

March 24, 2020 • South Central Region

Update: Evers Issues 'Safer at Home' Order

Update: Evers Issues 'Safer at Home' Order

Update: Evers Issues ‘Safer at Home’ Order

Gov. Tony Evers issued an order Tuesday mandating that Wisconsinites stay at home, effective Wednesday morning at 8. Certain exemptions are allowed for residents to leave their homes to receive healthcare and to get necessary supplies such as groceries. According to a release from the governor’s office, Wisconsinites do not ...

March 24, 2020

Sign outside the Wisconsin Public Service Commission hearing room in Madison.

Sign outside the Wisconsin Public Service Commission hearing room in Madison.

Update: PSC Halts Disconnections for Public Health Emergency

On Sunday, March 22, Gov. Tony Evers suspended additional utility rules and laid out more consumer protections for Wisconsin residents and businesses. Evers directed the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin to extend the orders released earlier this month to include more protective provisions. The announcement included six actions intended to ...

March 23, 2020

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