Ellie here. Thank you to everyone who sent in their running suggestions and reading recommendations. I’m excited to try out the strategies and add more books to my “need to read” list!

We’ve got a lot happening in Wisconsin, especially the cold weather. Today, it is dangerously cold, with schools closing all around our state. Try to avoid the outdoors if possible, but if you do need to step outside, keep these Wisconsin winter safety tips in mind.

Also in the news: The Milwaukee Brewers have traded ace pitcher Freddy Peralta, along with Tobias Myers, to the New York Mets. In exchange, the Brewers landed two prospects, infielder Jett Williams and right-hander Brandon Sproat. We’ll see how this plays out for the Brewers this year.

In today’s Locals Love, our readers share their favorite state parks. Next week, I want to feature your favorite Italian restaurants. Send me your top picks for a chance to be featured!

“Mid afternoon sun over Green Bay.” (Courtesy of Jayne B.)

Jayne B. in Green Bay sent in this great photo, the sun shining on a cold Wisconsin day. Thanks for sharing!

Send in your Wisconsin view to have it featured!

It’s more important than ever to remember the ways we can take care of our land in Wisconsin. If photos like this inspire you to take action, check out this story: How to support conservation efforts across Wisconsin

While right now is not the time to go hiking around a state park, it’s something we can look forward to in the warmer weather. Here are the state parks around the Badger State that you need to see, according to our readers:

🌲 Kettle Moraine State Forest, Northern Unit

“Appears like an enchanting forest.” — Susan W.

🌲 Point Beach State Park, Two Rivers

“Lake Michigan shoreline is absolutely beautiful with a wonderful beach to swim and soak up the sun. Camping in the forest is so comforting, yet exciting. Fireflies light up the night! Unable to see the next campsite. The lodge is especially wonderful on cold rainy days. Enjoyed taking our children there every summer.” — Ann U.

🌲 Lake Wissota State Park, Chippewa Falls

“The camping and swimming accommodations are amazing. To go on a picnic there is so relaxing. The trails to cross country ski are terrific. There is a center built to accommodate children from schools to learn. It is a place to go to make good memories.” — Arlan B.

Next week, I want to hear about your favorite Italian restaurants. Hit reply to have your pick featured next week.

Nothing says game day like some savory and sweet snacks to share with fellow fans. (Yulia Furman/Shuterstock)

A youth group session at HIR Wellness Institute. HIR stands for “healing intergenerational roots.” The institute focuses on healing generational trauma within Milwaukee’s Indigenous community. (USA Today via Reuters Connect)

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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Ellie Bourdo with stories from Kristine Hansen and USA Today Network via Reuters Connect. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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