Quality of life in a community is not just the events, but theoverall vibrancy of its appearance.  Bill Henry Walker is a sculpture artist who has worked with the city over the last year to install a number of pieces, which in turn add to the look and appearance of the city.

We learn the story behind these sculptures that haveappeared in Altoona and the design of the layout. Who are the artists that have contributed to these installations? Many of whom are quite accomplished. Where do these sculptures come from?

Bill tells his story of being a professional sculptureartist, including owning his own galleries and putting on shows for various artists. Born in California, he made his way to Milwaukee before coming to the area a few years ago.

With the arrival of dermatology care coming to ReforMedicine’s family, Dr. David Usher takes time to give a brief introduction.  Who will the personnel be and what things will these specialists be able to help with. Importantly, how will having these specialists in the ReforMedicine family save on costs versus the typical referrals patients are familiar with.

Talk of the Town is BACK and after a month away lots of clean-up...

1) What is happening with the CF City Council with two alderman quitting recently?

2) A potential mammoth data center in Menomonie is facing push back

3) Downtown parking in Eau Claire is facing a reckoning

In this episode, Heather talks with Brian Munro who recentlytook a trip to India to see first hand the complex world of street dogs in that country.  These animals have livedalongside humans for centuries.  From the bustling cities like Delhi to the beaches along the ocean.

Brian is a dog behavior and training specialist in the TwinCities and details how what he saw with the free roaming dogs as opposed to the pet culture we have.

How do the dogs and humans interact with each other?  He details what its like to observe thesedogs as they roam as both individuals and in groups.  What behaviors do not only the dogs exhibitbut the humans who live with them.

Suicide is a critical issue, a topic that touches countlessfamilies and communities, and it is something that has impacted Dan’s life directly.  He discusses losing someonerecently, and the mental difficulties he has personally faced too.

The third annual Ginormous PumpkinFestival returns to River Prairie in Altoona on Saturday September 27th.  Officially one of the world’s largest “bigpumpkin” weigh off competitions, the full day event has become a staple in the community featuring a fun run, pumpkin decorating, a pet costume contest andmuch more.

City administrator -and big pumpkin growing veteran- Mike Golat gives us the details on the 2025 edition of the event.  We also learn why the City of Altoona takes the lead on establishing many events throughout the year.

We also talk about the brand new container park dubbed “The Yard” and the arrival of this new public engagementspace to the valley.

Presented by Jackie Hunt State Farm Menomonie

There are some 100 different types of dementia (including Alzheimer’s) with over 125k diagnosed in Wisconsin.  This puts pressure on the family and friends entrusted to care for their loved ones. Carla Bersheit is a dementia care speciliast at the ADRC in Dunn County, who informs us of the local resources available for both the caregivers and those diagnosed.

On this episode she touches on mis-conceptions about thedisease, the impact a diagnosis may have on a family but also why its “going to be okay”.

Back to school!  Altoona superintendent Heidi Eliopoulous returns to the program to highlight what the community should know about local education as the 2025-2026school year arrives.

               Capped open enrollment and why Altoona is a draw for families

               How co-curriculars are more of part of education than ever

               Finding and retaining teachers

               Dealing with “alternative education” options

               A.I. and other technology in the classroom

               Why “screentime”for younger ages is not necessarily bad!

               Handling politics in the classroom

In this episode of the Pillar Bank Podcast, we explore smart strategies for saving for college and how to financially prepare for the costs of higher education. From financial plans to budgeting tips, we break down the steps families can take to make education more affordable and less stressful.

Vince, John, and Dave talk about the DEFCON hacker convention, being able to do something perfectly until someone watches you, and plastic surgery. Do you have a topic that you love, hate, or are indifferent to? Send it to [email protected] and maybe we’ll feature it on the show.