Ellie here. Last night we hosted a town hall in Madison with a few of the Wisconsin candidates who’ll be on this year’s ballot, and it was a huge success. Thank you to everyone who came out!

I got the opportunity to chat with many current and new readers, and spent some time talking with folks about the upcoming election, including hearing their first-time voting stories, the issues driving them to the polls, and what they’re looking for in a candidate.

From those that I had the chance to speak with, one of the most common themes I heard was the overall importance of voting. Here’s what I heard from some attendees about why they’re voting this November:

“[I’m voting] to preserve the American dream.”

“I am voting for my grandkids and kids.”

“I am voting because I can, and so many others are prevented from that privilege.”

Keep scrolling to check out some clips from the event. And thanks again to everyone who came out or watched our livestream!

And one more thing: For tomorrow’s Locals Love, I want to hear about your favorite Oktoberfest celebrations. Send in your favorites, and tell me why, to have them featured!

First, a few headlines from around the state:

🗞 There’s more on the ballot than just Wisconsin’s gubernatorial race. Here’s what you need to know about Wisconsin’s referendums. (WPR)

🗞 Former Vice President Kamala Harris will be stopping in Wisconsin at the end of this month. This is a part of a midterm campaign tour supporting Democrats. (TMJ4)

🗞 The organizers behind the No Kings rallies are bringing another edition of the nationwide day of action this Saturday, focused on boosting voter participation and making a plan to vote early. Here’s where you can find one near you.

Along with the beautiful fall colors, our state (per usual) has some incredible sunsets as well.

Here’s a great photo of one, from reader Robert S., who told us he “[s]hot this last week in Land o Lakes area.”

Gubernatorial candidate David Crowley sits down with Pat Kreitlow at UpNorthNews’ On the Ballot event Wednesday night. (Ellie Bourdo / UpNorthNews)

Follow the yellow brick road through the corn maze at Enchanted Valley Acres for some exciting fun. (Enchanted Valley Acres).

Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Ellie Bourdo with stories from Holly Garcia. It was edited by Kimberly Lawson.

UpNorthNews is free for everyone. Your support makes that possible.