Newsmakers, January 7, 2022

This week, we look back over the last year and feature a highlight of topics covered on “Newsmakers” throughout 2021. Our year-in-review includes an interview by WPR La Crosse-based reporter Hope Kirwan with national civil rights leader Rev. Dr. William Barber II (pictured). We also hear excerpts from programs on bicycle advocacy, homelessness, birding, Hmong farmers, and learn about the documentary film “Amplifying the Voices of Black Youth and their Parents in the La Crosse Area.” Congressman Ron Kind is featured discussing the recent passing of the Infrastructure Bill, and we talk with folks involved with the Afghan refugees at Fort McCoy. Finally, we honor Gene Purcell, who was Wisconsin Public Media’s Director until his untimely passing last July, following a motor vehicle crash. Purcell, who worked in La Crosse for many years before relocating to Madison, is memorialized by his sister in a special “Wisconsin Life” piece.