Ellie here. I want to start by acknowledging the events that happened earlier this week.

A Madison police officer shot and killed a man with a knife on Wednesday. This is an ongoing investigation that has reignited discussions about the use of force, training, and accountability, and gubernatorial candidates have weighed in.

If this is something that’s been on your mind, you’re not alone. And if you feel comfortable, share your thoughts with me.

For something more community-focused, today’s Locals Love features a few favorite farmers markets worth visiting this weekend. Take care of yourself, check in on the people around you, and reach out if you need support.

Black bears are actually pretty common in Wisconsin. Doesn’t mean it’s not still a little surprising when you see one, though.

Our reader, Kim S., sent in this wild photo!

“When your three-year-old Neighbor really wants to come over and have the Hummingbird bird feeder for a snack! July 2026 Stone Lake WI.”

Thanks for sharing Your Wisconsin View! Send in yours to have it featured.

This week, I asked for your favorite farmers markets around your community. Here’s what you had to say:

📍“The farmers market on the Square in downtown Stevens Point on Saturdays is great! During the summer it’s full of vendor booths with all locally grown and produced goods as well as a few food vendors to get your coffee, bagels or a meal. Several vendors also provide produce other days of the week. In winter the farmers market moves indoors at the Boys and Girls Club.” — Marty & Dorothy S.

📍“Each Thursday from 2:00 to 8:00 mid-June to early fall, you can find hundreds of people at the wonderful Country Lane Market at 1642 16th Street Barron, Wisconsin. There are so many kinds of plants, vegetables, fruit, furniture, miscellaneous gifts, homemade shirts, aprons, and ice cream which is churned while you wait. I’ve gone there to eat supper many times. Their store on-site is my go-to place for bulk baking supplies, canning supplies, dozens of containers of herbs and spices, homemade fudge, puzzles, frozen fruit, butter (I buy a case at a time), and grains. They also have attractive Amish made deck furniture, made from composite ‘wood.’” — Jeri B.

📍“Favorite farmers markets: Osseo collaborates the Farmers Market with existing Music in the Park every Monday evening. Also in Chetek at Pine Lodge- every Saturday morning 9-1 p.m.” — Erin E

Next week, I want to hear about
your favorite cheese curd spots. Hit reply to have your pick featured!

Here are some ways to get involved in Wisconsin. (Unsplash)

In a recent Marquette Law School poll, Democratic voters were still overwhelmingly undecided when asked who will earn their vote in the Aug. 11 gubernatorial primary. Rep. Francesca Hong outpolled her Democratic opponents, but former Lt. Gov. Mandela Barnes did best in head-to-head matchups with Rep. Tom Tiffany.

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Ellie Bourdo with stories from Abigail Deatrick and Pat Kreitlow. It was edited by Paula Solis.

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