Articles by Peter Culver
Evers signs order creating Office of Environmental Justice
FRANKLIN (WKOW) — In celebration of Earth Day, Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers signed an executive order creating the Office of Environmental Justice. According to a news release from Evers' office, the office works alongside the Office of Sustainability and Clean Energy to "promote environmentally just policies and prevent disparate outcomes in communities across the state" as a part of Evers' newly-released Clean Energy Plan.
Evers releases first-ever Clean Energy Plan for Wisconsin
MADISON (WKOW) — Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers unveiled the state's first Clean Energy Plan Tuesday, aiming to build Wisconsin energy independence and lower energy bills for residents. According to a news release from Evers' office, this plan was drafted alongside the Office of Sustainability and Clean Energy. It's part of the agency's stated goal to reach 100% carbon-free power by 2050. “Folks, the cost of doing nothing is far too high.
Aaron Rodgers, Tom Brady, Patrick Mahomes, Josh Allen to face off in golf match
LAS VEGAS (WKOW) - Four of the NFL's top quarterback's will pair up and face off in golf this June. For the sixth edition of The Match, airing on TNT to showcase some of the best professional and amateur golfers in the country, Aaron Rodgers and Tom Brady will square off against Patrick Mahomes and Josh Allen June 1. The Wynn Golf Club in Las Vegas, which held the second edition of The Match between Bryson DeChambeau and Brooks Koepka, will host this 12-hole showcase.
Wisconsin Natural Resources Board approves new bird hunting regulations
MADISON (WKOW) - The Wisconsin Natural Resources Board has approved a new set of regulations for the 2022 migratory bird hunting season. According to a news release from the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (DNR), changes to the existing framework come from input from both hunters and new scientific research. New regulations include: An updated definition to the Open Water Duck Zone boundary.
Kaul, DATCP to pursue legal action against telemarketing firm
MADISON (WKOW) - The Wisconsin Department of Justice filed a civil enforcement action against a New Jersey firm for violating Wisconsin telemarketing laws. According to a news release from Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul's office, the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection referred the action after N.C.W.C. Inc. marketed extended vehicle warranties to car owners across the country.
Study with UW Health shows lower blood pressure in mothers protects against birth illnesses
MADISON (WKOW) — A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that treating slightly elevated blood pressure in pregnant mothers reduces the risk of life-threatening ailments. According to a news release from UW Health spokesperson Emily Kumlien, the study took roughly 2,400 pregnant women with slightly elevated blood pressure and randomly gave half of them medicine for hypertension.
One person killed in shooting outside Dane County Jail
UPDATE (WKOW) -- Chief Shon Barnes says one person was killed in a shooting outside the Dane County Jail in Madison Wednesday evening. This is the first homicide in Madison in 2022. Barnes says the victim is a man in his 30s, but police have not released his name. He says the victim was walking on Carroll St. when he was shot multiple times. Barnes says a Madison police officer was pulling up, saw the victim on the ground and was able to provide "immediate" aid.
DNR advises Wisconsinites to be mindful of oak wilt disease this spring
MADISON (WKOW) — As the calendar rolls into April, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources put out an advisory Wednesday urging residents to watch out for oak wilt disease. According to a news release from DNR forest health specialist Paul Cigan, oak wilt is a widespread problem throughout southern Wisconsin. Pruning and cutting oaks in spring and early summer can expose the trees' inner tissue to open air, giving oak wilt fungus a chance to infect them.
NFL to host 2024 draft in Detroit over Green Bay
DETROIT (WKOW) -- After initially considering Washington D.C. and Green Bay, the NFL will hold its 2024 draft in Detroit instead. According to a news release from the NFL, the decision came down Monday afternoon. The draft will be held in Las Vegas this year and then in Kansas City next year.
Wisconsin unemployment rate falls below three percent
MADISON (WKOW) - The Wisconsin Department of Workforce DevelopmentĀ published Bureau of Labor Statistics data Thursday showing Wisconsin's unemployment rate has dropped below 3%. According to a news release from the DWD, the 2.9% rate ties Wisconsin's all-time lowest unemployment levels. The private sector added 20,700 jobs from January 2022 to February 2022.
Chandler Halderson sentenced to life in prison without parole for the murder of his parents
MADISON (WKOW) - Chandler Halderson was sentenced Thursday in Dane County Court to life in prison without parole for the murder and dismemberment of his parents. At the sentencing, Judge John Hyland spoke on the severity of Halderson's crimes, and said that granting him the possibility of parole down the line would not be fair to the community.
Wisconsin DHS reports three child flu deaths
MADISON (WKOW) - The Wisconsin Department of Health Services reported three deaths in children under 18 due to complications from influenza, the first pediatric flu deaths of the 2021-22 season. According to a news release from the DHS, flu cases are on the rise in Wisconsin as of late, and officials strongly recommend the influenza vaccine for all Wisconsinites over the age of six months.
Evers calls for suspension of federal gas tax
MADISON (WKOW) - With gas prices soaring, Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers called on Congress to suspend the federal gas tax Tuesday. The average price of gas in Wisconsin sits at $3.942 per gallon, substantially more than the $3.377 average on March 1 and much higher than the average of $2.646 one year ago.
Reports: Aaron Rodgers to return to Green Bay
GREEN BAY (WKOW) — After months of uncertainty, Aaron Rodgers is set to return to the team that drafted him. According to NFL Network reporter Ian Rapoport, Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers have agreed to a deal that will bring the three-time MVP back. Former NFL player and frequent Rodgers collaborator Pat McAfee said there is not currently a deal in place, but he will be returning to Green Bay.
Evers signs two bills aiding restaurant recovery from COVID-19 pandemic
MADISON (WKOW) — Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers signed a pair of bills Monday morning aimed at helping Wisconsin restaurants recover from the worst of the COVID-19 pandemic. According to a news release from Evers' office, Wisconsin Acts 156 and 157 are designed to provide tax relief for restaurant owners to help with financial stress. "I know it hasn’t been easy and many are still struggling due to supply chain challenges, inflationary costs, and workforce challenges our state has faced for years.
DNR reminds Wisconsinites of upcoming ice shanty removal deadline
MADISON (WKOW) — With warmer weather melting frozen lakes across the state, the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources reminded residents that the deadline for removing ice fishing shanties is coming up. According to a news release from the DNR, all permanent ice fishing shanties must be removed from state waters by March 15. Shanty owners having difficulty removing theirs should contact local fishing clubs or vendors for assistance.
Swiss gruyère wins second consecutive World Cheese Championship
MADISON (WKOW) - A Swiss gruyere took home the 2022 World Championship Cheese crown for the second straight competition Thursday. According to a news release from the Wisconsin Cheese Makers Association, the Gourmino Le Gruyère, made by Michael Spycher of Mountain Dairy Fritzenhaus in Bern, Switzerland notched a score of 98.423 points out of a possible 100.
Evers: Gableman investigation has 'never been a serious or functioning effort'
MADISON (WKOW) - Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers and Attorney General Josh Kaul released statements regarding Michael Gableman's election audit Tuesday, calling on legislative Republicans to bring it to an end. Evers statement cites multiple prior reviews confirming the election's integrity in the statement, saying Gableman's investigation is responsible for widespread misinformation. He also pointed to the audit as a leading cause behind harassment directed at election officials.
Department of Corrections lifts ban on in-person visits
MADISON (WKOW) -- The Wisconsin Department of Corrections announced that in-person visits will be allowed starting March 1 due to a decrease in COVID-19 cases. According to a news release from DOC spokesperson John Beard, there were 104 active cases across prisoners and staff throughout Wisconsin as of February 24. 83% of prisoners have completed their vaccine schedule, and more than 69% of those eligible for a booster have gotten one.
Johnson & Johnson, drug companies agree to $26 billion opioid agreement
MADISON (WKOW) -- Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul confirmed that Johnson & Johnson, along with the United State's three largest pharmaceutical distributors, got final approval for a $26 billion opioid agreement Friday. According to a news release from Kaul's office, Wisconsin will receive $400 million as a result of the settlement. The funds will be dedicated to combatting the opioid crisis. Kaul said the funds will provide help for Wisconsinites struggling with opioid use.
Johnson & Johnson, drug companies agree to $26 billion opioid agreement
MADISON (WKOW) -- Wisconsin Attorney General Josh Kaul confirmed that Johnson & Johnson, along with the United State's three largest pharmaceutical distributors, got final approval for a $26 billion opioid agreement Friday. According to a news release from Kaul's office, Wisconsin will receive $400 million as a result of the settlement. The funds will be dedicated to combatting the opioid crisis. Kaul said the funds will provide help for Wisconsinites struggling with opioid use.
Michigan's Howard to be suspended for rest of regular season following postgame brawl
ANN ARBOR (WKOW) -- After hitting a UW assistant coach during a heated argument after a basketball game Sunday, Michigan head coach Juwan Howard will miss the rest of the regular season. According to a tweet from Yahoo Sports reporter Dan Wetzel, Michigan will suspend Howard for the next five games, taking up the remainder of the regular season. The suspension came down after Howard hit UW assistant coach Joe Krabbenhoft in the head after Michigan lost to the Badgers, 77-63, Sunday.
No charges filed in UW/Michigan basketball postgame fight
MADISON (WKOW) -- No criminal charges will be filed after a fight following Wisconsin's win over Michigan at the Kohl Center Sunday. According to UW Police spokesperson Marc Lovicott, neither the athletic department or any individuals have indicated any desire to press charges. Lovicott said the decisions about further action in these cases are often left up to the schools and conference.
Five wounds, laceration reported on Quadren Wilson's medical records
MADISON (WKOW) -- UW Hospital records show Quadren Wilson had five gunshot wounds and a laceration when he arrived for treatment following an officer-involved shooting. According to Wilson's medical records, shared with 27 News by Wilson's attorney Steve Eisenberg, he was brought to the emergency department with gunshot wounds and EMS staff reported "Two wounds in the back." Doctors who assessed Wilson noted a total of five wounds, including to the left lower chest.
Evers, DWD announce $1 million in funding for teacher training
MADISON (WKOW) — Wisconsin Gov. Tony Evers and the Department of Workforce Development announced new funding for the Teacher Training and Recruitment Grant Program Monday. According to a news release from Evers' office, the $1 million in funding is available through the DWD's Expanded Wisconsin Fast Forward program. Wisconsin nonprofits can apply for up to $500,000 in grant funding to recruit, train and eventually license teachers in line with Wisconsin Department of Public Instruction standards.
Davison sets program record for career made threes in win over Nebraska
LINCOLN, NEB. (WKOW) -- Brad Davison broke the program record for career threes as Wisconsin cruised by Nebraska in Lincoln, 73-65. Davison led Wisconsin with 21 points, including five made threes as the Badgers went 9-14 from deep in the first half. Chucky Hepburn and Johnny Davis each chipped in 13 more, while Stephen Crowl added 12. Junior forward Tyler Wahl returned to the court after missing the Badgers' home loss to Michigan State with an ankle injury.
Roundy's to hold job fair for new e-commerce positions
MILWAUKEE (WKOW) -- With online grocery shopping still a vital service during the COVID-19 pandemic, Roundy's Supermarkets will hold an event to bring on 300 new e-commerce employees. According to a news release from Roundy's spokesperson Janey Malcolm, the company will host a hiring event at all 106 stores January 29 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Pre-applying online is available, but walk-ins will be accepted.
Madison Reading Project announces partnership with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library
MADISON (WKOW) -- The Madison Reading Project announced a new partnership with Dolly Parton's Imagination Library Tuesday, with the goal of eventually distributing books to 30,000 local kids. According to a news release from Madison Reading Project executive director Rowan Childs, the planned program will provide one age-appropriate book every month for kids up to five years old. The books will be personalized to each child and mailed to them as a gift for kids to get excited about.
Highway 33 closed in Caledonia due to semi fire
CALEDONIA (WKOW) -- Authorities closed down Wisconsin Highway 33 in Caledonia Wednesday afternoon when a semi truck caught fire. The Wisconsin Department of Transportation said the incident started at 12:10 p.m. Wednesday, at the intersection between 33 and I-90/94. All lanes are closed in both directions, and WisDOT estimated the road could stay closed for two hours. According to the Wisconsin State Patrol, the semi driver did manage to escape the cab when the vehicle caught fire.
Packers put star cornerback Jaire Alexander on COVID-19 list
GREEN BAY (WKOW) -- Not long after rejoining the active roster following an early-season injury to his shoulder, Packers star cornerback Jaire Alexander will miss at least one more game. Green Bay announced Sunday evening that Alexander has been placed on the COVID-19 reserve list, joining wide receiver Amari Rodgers and defensive lineman Kingsley Keke. Alexander has not played since leaving the Packers' week four win against Pittsburgh.
Passenger injured after Columbia County drunk driving crash sends guardrail through car
LODI (WKOW) -- One person was hospitalized with serious injuries after a Poynette man crashed into a highway guardrail Saturday, sending the guardrail all the way through the engine compartment and passenger cab. According to a from the Columbia County Sheriff's Office, Peter Robinson, 58, of Poynette was driving northbound on Lindsay Road when he left the roadway and crashed into the guardrail bordering State Highway 60.
All lanes on northbound US 151 now clear following crash
UPDATE (WKOW) -- All lanes on US Hwy 151 are now cleared following a crash Saturday evening. MADISON (WKOW) -- The Wisconsin Department of Transportation reported two lane closures on US Hwy 151 Saturday evening following a crash. According to an incident report from WisDOT, the crash happened at 5:10 p.m Sunday.
Dane County Sheriff's Deputy injured by domestic violence suspect
MADISON (WKOW) -- A Dane County Sheriff's deputy was treated and released at Meriter Hospital after a domestic violence suspect hit them several times when he learned he would be arrested. According to a news release from Dane County Sheriff's Office Lieutenant Ira Simpson, 26-year-old Chaz Walsh was taken to Meriter for injuries connected to a "violent domestic disturbance" call.
DHS reports 6,738 new COVID-19 cases in Wisconsin
MADISON (WKOW) -- 6,738 new COVID-19 cases were reported Friday in Wisconsin, according to the latest numbers from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. The seven-day average of COVID-19 cases in Wisconsin is at 4,626 according to the latest numbers from the Wisconsin Department of Health Services. DHS also reports 18 new COVID-19 deaths, bringing the seven-day average to 22. Cases and deaths for each day are reported by DHS here.
Madison garage fire causes $21,000 in damage
MADISON (WKOW) -- The Madison Fire Department put out a garage fire on the city's west side Wednesday after a resident heard a "loud popping sound." According to an incident report from the MFD, firefighters responded to the 2300 block of Quartz Lane Wednesday at 5:05 p.m. The resident had gone outside with their dog after calling 911, reporting the popping sound and smoke coming from the garage. Fire crews found a car on fire in the garage, and took just 15 minutes to knock down the flames.
Town of Madison police investigating Thursday gunfire between two cars
TOWN OF MADISON (WKOW) -- The Town of Madison Police Department responded to a shooting Thursday night, with residents needing to take shelter inside for safety. According to a news release from department chief Scott Gregory, officers arrived at the intersection of Rimrock Road and Moorland road at 10:06 p.m. Thursday after multiple 911 callers reported gunfire exchanged between two vehicles. Surveillance video showed two cars leaving the Capitol Petrol station and then the occupants opened fire.
Vikings QB Kirk Cousins tests positive for COVID-19, will not play Sunday night vs. Packers
MINNEAPOLIS (WKOW) -- As the Omicron variant surges through the league, another quarterback will miss a crucial late-season game this week. According to a tweet from NFL.com reporter Tom Pelissero, Vikings quarterback Kirk Cousins tested positive for COVID-19 Friday morning, and he will miss Minnesota's game against Green Bay Sunday night.
Packers fend off late comeback attempt to take down Ravens, clinch NFC North
BALTIMORE (WKOW) -- Despite a spirited comeback in the game's closing minutes, the Green Bay Packers held off the Baltimore Ravens on the road to clinch a third straight division title. Aaron Rodgers continued his excellent stretch of late with 268 yards and three touchdowns, but the Packers had to stop a last-minute two-point conversion attempt to edge out the Ravens, 31-30. With his third touchdown of the day, Rodgers tied Brett Favre for most touchdown passes by a Packer at 442.
Sen. Agard, Rep. Pope introduce bill requiring schools provide free menstrual products
MADISON (WKOW) - Wisconsin state Senator Melissa Agard (D-Madison) and Representative Sondy Pope (D-Mount Horeb) introduced a bill Thursday that would require all school buildings to offer free menstrual products for students. According to a news release from Agard and Pope, the bill will address both gender-based and financial inequality, particularly for students who cannot necessarily afford to always have menstrual hygiene products at hand when needed.
Gov. Evers submits new round of legislative maps to Supreme Court, citing 'least change' directive
Gov. Tony Evers WKOW MADISON (WKOW) -- Wisconsin Governor Tony Evers submitted new legislative maps for the Wisconsin Supreme Court's consideration Wednesday. The maps follow the court's new guidelines requiring minimal changes to existing maps. The court previously rejected maps Evers submitted in conjunction with the People's Maps Commission, instead mandating that the governor and legislative Republicans submit maps that follow a "least change" approach.
Dane County officials warn about unsafe conditions for ice fishers
...HIGH WIND WARNING IN EFFECT FROM 6 PM WEDNESDAY TO 6 AM CST THURSDAY... * WHAT...Southwest winds 20 to 30 mph with gusts up to 60 mph expected. * WHERE...Dunn, Pepin, Chippewa and Eau Claire Counties. * WHEN...From 6 PM Wednesday to 6 AM CST Thursday. * IMPACTS...Damaging winds will blow down trees and power lines. Widespread power outages are expected. Travel will be difficult, especially for high profile vehicles. PRECAUTIONARY/PREPAREDNESS ACTIONS...
UW basketball player launches GoFundMe after tornados decimate hometown
MADISON (WKOW) -- After a string of tornados caused massive damage in his hometown of Mayfield, Kentucky, Wisconsin senior Chris Vogt launched an effort to help. Vogt launched the GoFundMe Saturday afternoon, just hours after the storms claimed potentially over 100 lives in Mayfield and the surrounding area. In a tweet publicizing the fundraiser, Vogt said every donation helps. "I want to be able to help those that were affected in anyway possible. Every little bit you are able to donate helps.
Your Guide to the 2021 NCAA Volleyball Regional Semifinals
MADISON (WKOW) -- The stage is set for eight heavyweight bouts in the NCAA Volleyball regional semifinals on Thursday, December 9. Four-seed Wisconsin will face off against 13-seed UCLA at 4:00 p.m. CT Thursday after the Bruins outlasted a spirited five-set challenge from Central Florida on Saturday. This will be the second time the Badgers have faced UCLA in the tournament in the last three seasons, with Bucky cruising to a straight-sets win in 2019.
Badger football to face off against Arizona State in Las Vegas Bowl
MADISON (WKOW) -- After falling just short of a berth in the Big Ten Championship Game, the Badger football team can end their season on a high note in Sin City. Wisconsin will be playing in the Las Vegas Bowl against Arizona State December 30, the Badgers' 20th consecutive trip to a bowl game. That's good for the third-longest active streak in the country, behind only Oklahoma and Georgia.
One dead after, one arrested after shooting at Madison gas station
MADISON (WKOW) -- One person is in custody following a shooting outside a Kwik Trip on Madison's east side Sunday morning. Speaking to reporters, Dane County Sheriff Kalvin Barrett said the shooting took place at approximately 9:20 a.m. Sunday outside the gas station, located at 4112 Milwaukee St. A 911 caller provided a description of the suspected shooter and their car, leading to a chase.
Eight patients still in treatment Children's Wisconsin following Waukesha parade tragedy
MILWAUKEE (WKOW) -- One more child patient left Children's Wisconsin Saturday, with eight still receiving care following the tragedy at the Waukesha Christmas parade. According to an email from Children's Wisconsin spokesperson Tami Hughes, four children are still in serious condition, two are in fair condition and two are in good condition at the hospital.
Badgers fail to reach Big Ten title game with loss to Gophers
MINNEAPOLIS (WKOW) -- With a berth to the Big Ten title game on the line, Wisconsin's offense fell flat as the Badgers lost Paul Bunyan's Axe to Minnesota Saturday. The Gophers won back the Axe for the first time since 2018 and the first time on their home field since 2003. Sophomore quarterback Graham Mertz struggled to establish a connection with his receivers all game, completing 21 of 38 passes for 171 yards and an interception.
Sens. Baldwin, Johnson release statement against exploiting Waukesha parade tragedy
WKOW -- Less than a week after a car drove through a Christmas parade in Waukesha, Wisconsin's senators released a statement decrying political exploitation of the tragedy Saturday. According to the joint statement from Tammy Baldwin and Ron Johnson, their offices have seen many "outside groups" looking to exploit the incident for their own political gain. "We have full confidence in the local officials who responded with extraordinary professionalism, competence, integrity and compassion.
Badger basketball notches early-season tournament victory
LAS VEGAS (WKOW) -- A day after pulling off a massive upset against 12th-ranked Houston, the young Wisconsin Badgers (5-1) basketball team capped off an impressive tournament performance with a win. Sophomore sensation Johnny Davis led the way with 20 points and junior Tyler Wahl chipped in a career-high 18 as the Badgers downed St. Mary's, 61-55. It was a slow, physical, grinding game, with neither team able to establish a consistent rhythm and pull away.
Multiple people killed when SUV crashes into Waukesha Christmas parade
UPDATE (WKOW) -- Investigators say multiple people were killed when an SUV drove through a holiday parade in Waukesha Sunday evening. Authorities would not provide a specific number as they are still notifying the families of those who were killed. Chief Steve Howard of the Waukesha Fire Department says 11 adults and 12 children were taken to six hospitals, but did not elaborate on their conditions.
Show More
loading
Actions
Is this you?
As a journalist, you can create a free Muck Rack account to customize your profile, list your contact preferences, and upload a portfolio of your best work.Get in touch with Peter
Contact Peter, search articles and posts on X, monitor coverage, and track replies from one place.
Learn more about Muck Rack