Ellie here. TGIF!
This weekend, I’m planning on watching the Olympics and the Super Bowl. I’m most excited for the Bad Bunny halftime show! Do you have any plans for the big game? Let me know!
If you’re looking for something to do this weekend, don’t forget to check out our Badger State Buzz, where we keep you up to date on all the happenings around our state.
Speaking of the Super Bowl, in today’s
Locals Love section, our readers share their favorite dive bars. I don’t know about you, but there’s nowhere I’d rather grab a drink and watch the game with my friends.
Next week, I want to feature your favorite places to get some BBQ. Send me your top picks to be featured!
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“Sunrise over looking lake Pepin Mississippi River. Temp one degree, Pepin Wisconsin.” (Courtesy of Jeffrey H.)
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Jeffrey H. in Pepin sent in this great photo of a sunset over the Mississippi River! What a beautiful picture of an iconic Wisconsin scene. Thanks for sharing!
Send in your Wisconsin view to have it featured!
There’s no shortage of beautiful views in Wisconsin, just like this one. Check out some of the best places to see our state’s scenic destinations.
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The best dive bars to grab a pint, according to our readers
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There’s nowhere I’d rather grab a pint, play some cards, and chat with friends than a dive bar. I asked for your favorites, and you all delivered:
🍺 Del’s, La Crosse
“It’s got everything that makes a dive bar great – rustic building, funky decor, classic drinks and great bar staff. They also have the best Bloody Mary’s hands down.” — Jessica P.
🍺 The Elbow Room, Stevens Point
“It’s one of those places with a lot of regulars but newcomers and visitors are welcomed. It’s small but offers live music, a good selection of taps and spirits.” — Marty & Dorothy S.
🍺 Smugglers, Eagle River
“It’s very classic Wisconsin and quite possibly the best Smashburger I’ve ever had. Really great vibes, friendly people, two dollar hamms on tap and incredible horseradish.” — Alexa M.
🍺 The SafeHouse, Milwaukee
“When you go in there, you’re a spy. But so is everyone else — friendly spies only! Most fun place in MKE.” — Shauna B.
Next week, I want to hear about your favorite BBQ spots. Hit reply to have your pick featured.
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“Free America” Walkout rally in Madison, Wisc. (Henry Teckam/UpNorthNews)
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By Abigail Deatrick
Your weekly guide to Wisconsin political events, protests, advocacy opportunities, and ways to take action statewide–Friday, Feb. 6 through Thursday, Feb. 12.
Want to get involved this week? Show up for ICE Out rallies, community gatherings centered on election engagement and reproductive justice, the data center public hearing, actions to protect gender-affirming care, and volunteer opportunities across our communities.
Here’s our weekly round-up of upcoming events and actions.
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Dave Drury, left, and his wife, Barri, have contributed $10 million to Children’s Wisconsin to support pediatric research, one of the largest research gifts the health system has received, Children’s announced on Wednesday, Feb. 4, 2026. (USA Today via Reuters Connect)
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By USA Today via Reuters Connect
Milwaukee-area philanthropists Barri and Dave Drury have made a $10 million gift to Children’s Wisconsin to support pediatric research, one of the largest donations for research the health system has received.
The gift, announced by Children’s Feb. 4, is meant to drive scientific discoveries that will improve pediatric patients’ care and to support Children’s physicians and researchers as they work to further understand patients’ conditions and develop better tests and treatments.
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