COVID-19 vaccines are starting to become available throughout the La Crosse area and in surrounding counties. This week on "Newsmakers," we’re talking to medical and public health professionals about vaccine safety and distribution. We’re also learning about what advice the health department has for residents as COVID numbers begin to decline. Then, learn about a program offering help to COVID-19 affected businesses with fewer than 20 employees.

Today on "Newsmakers," we’re talking about the legacy of the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. First, our own Hope Kirwan talks to noted civil rights leader, the Rev. Dr. William Barber. Then, local leaders talk about organizing a series of online educational and celebratory opportunities on MLK Day, amid the threat of COVID-19.

This week on "Newsmakers," we talk about the future of downtown La Crosse, including a discussion with individuals involved in the Imagine 2040 La Crosse Downtown Plan. We hear from city officials and the La Crosse Downtown Neighborhood Association about this strategic effort in the next phase of city planning.

As the holiday season turns into the new year, which leads to the coldest part of winter, Newsmakers is talking about how area social service nonprofits are reaching out to those in need. On this week’s program we hear from Couleecap, the Hunger Task Force of La Crosse, and Community Hunger Solutions in Viroqua.

Opioid-related deaths had been on the decline in recent years, but there has been a sharp increase in the months COVID-19 has affected the Coulee Region. This week on Newsmakers, our expert panel examines the effects of opioid abuse in our listening area.

COVID-19 test positivity rates continue to be a concern to area health leaders. This week on Newsmakers, we hear from area nurses about treating COVID patients and their advice for the public. Then, hear from La Crosse Mayor Tim Kabat on his decision not to seek a third term in office. Plus, find out what’s in store for visitors to the brand new La Crosse Area Heritage Center.

Wisconsin Public Radio’s “Route 51” welcomes regional singer-songwriters Paco Fralick, Adam Greuel and Ariane Lydon to share their original music and thoughts on gratitude in a year like none other.

Area health leaders are worried hospitals may not be able to keep up with the spread of COVID-19 if the public doesn’t adjust their behavior. Officials are urging people to stay home this holiday season, opting for smaller celebrations within their households. Plus, local business advocates say losses due to COVID-19 could amount to nearly $200 million in La Crosse County alone. Find out why they’re urging shoppers to “buy local” this holiday season.

Western Wisconsin's arts and cultural organizations are among those struggling to make ends meet in the wake of an international pandemic. Today on Newsmakers, we're talking about how COVID-19 is affecting three such organizations in the Coulee Region. We'll hear from the Pump House Regional Arts Center, the La Crosse Community Theater, and Norskedalen Nature and Heritage Center.

This week on Newsmakers, we’re taking another look at COVID-19 in our listening area. First, health leaders from Gundersen Health System and the Mayo Clinic Health System join host Ezra Wall to talk about trends in our community. Then, the presidents of Viterbo University and Western Technical College, and the chancellor of the University of Wisconsin La Crosse talk about how the public health crisis is affecting life on campus in 2020.